Electric water heater

Abstract

The invention discloses an electric water heater, and relates to the technical field of water heaters. The electric water heater comprises a water tank, a heat exchanger, a water inlet pipe, a water outlet pipe, a heater, a driving part and a constant-temperature control part, the heat exchanger is arranged outside the water tank and provided with a first flow channel and a second flow channel which are in heat exchange connection, the first flow channel communicates with the water storage cavity to form a circulation loop, the inlet end of the second flow channel is connected with a water inlet pipe, and the outlet end of the second flow channel is connected with a water outlet pipe; the heater is used for heating water in the circulation loop; the driving part is used for driving water in the circulation loop to circularly flow; the constant-temperature control component is connected with the water inlet pipe and the water outlet pipe and used for adjusting water outlet temperature of the water outlet pipe. According to the technical scheme, the function of heating running water for use can be achieved, the water temperature can be adjusted according to user requirements, and meanwhile the assembly difficulty is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of water heaters, and particularly to an electric water heater. Background Art

[0002] In traditional storage water heaters, the water in the inner tank is usually heated by a heater and then directly supplied to users. This method has problems such as a large volume of the inner tank occupying a lot of space and being prone to bacterial growth.

[0003] In the related heat exchange type electric water heaters, the heat exchange tubes are mostly arranged in the inner tank, which has problems such as a long length of the heat exchange tubes and low thermal efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main object of the present invention is to propose an electric water heater, aiming to improve the thermal efficiency while using live water.

[0005] To achieve the above object, the electric water heater proposed by the present invention includes: A water tank provided with a water storage cavity; A heat exchanger externally disposed on the water tank. The heat exchanger has a first flow channel and a second flow channel that are in heat exchange connection, and the first flow channel is communicated with the water storage cavity to form a circulation loop; An inlet pipe and an outlet pipe. The inlet pipe is used to connect the cold water inlet pipe to the inlet end of the second flow channel, and the outlet pipe is used to connect the hot water outlet pipe to the outlet end of the second flow channel; A heater for heating the water in the circulation loop; A driving component for driving the water in the circulation loop to circulate; and A constant temperature control component connected to the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe for adjusting the water temperature of the outlet pipe.

[0006] In an embodiment of the present application, the constant temperature control component includes a bypass pipe and a constant temperature valve. The bypass pipe communicates the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe. The connection point of the bypass pipe and the inlet pipe is defined as the first connection point, and the connection point of the bypass pipe and the outlet pipe is defined as the second connection point; The constant temperature valve is disposed on the pipe section of the inlet pipe downstream of the first connection point; Or, the constant temperature valve is disposed at the first connection point; Or, the constant temperature valve is disposed on the bypass pipe; Or, the constant temperature valve is disposed on the pipe section of the outlet pipe upstream of the second connection point; Or, the bypass pipe and the pipe section of the outlet pipe upstream of the second connection point are both provided with the constant temperature valve.

[0007] In an embodiment of the present application, a temperature sensor is provided on the pipe section of the water inlet pipe upstream of the first connection, and a temperature sensor is provided on the pipe section of the water outlet pipe downstream of the second connection; a water flow sensor is provided on the pipe section of the water inlet pipe upstream of the first connection; The water flow sensor and the two temperature sensors are both electrically connected to the thermostatic valve.

[0008] In an embodiment of the present application, a first one-way valve is provided on the bypass pipe to unidirectionally conduct the flow path from the water inlet pipe to the water outlet pipe.

[0009] In an embodiment of the present application, the electric water heater further includes a makeup water pipeline assembly. The inlet end of the makeup water pipeline assembly is connected to the water inlet pipe, and the outlet end of the makeup water pipeline assembly is connected to the circulation loop.

[0010] In an embodiment of the present application, the driving component is arranged on the downstream side of the first flow channel; The connection part of the outlet end of the makeup water pipeline assembly and the circulation loop is arranged on the upstream side of the driving component.

[0011] In an embodiment of the present application, the makeup water pipeline assembly includes: A makeup water pipe, connecting the water inlet pipe and the circulation loop; An electromagnetic valve, arranged on the makeup water pipe to control the on-off of the makeup water pipe; and A second one-way valve, arranged on the makeup water pipe and located downstream of the electromagnetic valve to unidirectionally conduct the flow path from the water inlet pipe to the circulation loop.

[0012] In an embodiment of the present application, the electric water heater has a water usage mode and a makeup water mode: In the water usage mode, the makeup water pipeline assembly is closed, the heater and the driving component are turned on, and the water in the water storage cavity flows back to the water storage cavity after heat exchange through the first flow channel; the water in the water inlet pipe flows through the second flow channel and the bypass pipe respectively and flows into the water outlet pipe to be mixed and then flows out for use; In the makeup water mode, the outlet end of the water outlet pipe is closed, the makeup water pipeline assembly is opened, and the water in the water inlet pipe flows into the water storage cavity through the makeup water pipeline assembly and the circulation loop.

[0013] In an embodiment of the present application, the heater is externally arranged outside the water tank and is located on the upstream side of the first flow channel; In the water usage mode, the water in the water storage cavity sequentially passes through the heater, the first flow channel, and the driving component and then flows back to the water storage cavity; the water in the water inlet pipe flows through the second flow channel and the bypass pipe respectively and flows into the water outlet pipe to be mixed and then flows out for use.

[0014] In an embodiment of the present application, the outlet end of the make-up water pipeline assembly is connected to the upstream side of the heater; In the make-up water mode, the water in the water inlet pipe flows through the make-up water pipeline assembly, the heater, and the first flow channel to the water storage cavity.

[0015] In an embodiment of the present application, in the make-up water mode, the heater is turned on.

[0016] In the technical solution of the electric water heater of the present invention, by adopting a heat exchanger provided outside the water tank and having a first flow channel and a second flow channel connected in a heat exchange manner, the first flow channel is connected to the water storage cavity to form a circulation loop. The water in the circulation loop is heated by the heater, and the water in the circulation loop is driven to circulate by the driving component, so that the hot water in the circulation loop can heat the cold water flowing in the second flow channel of the heat exchanger when flowing through the first flow channel, realizing the function of heating and using live water; at the same time, by setting a constant temperature control component to adjust the water outlet temperature of the water outlet pipe, the water outlet temperature of the water outlet pipe can be adjusted according to the needs of users, improving the user's water use comfort. In addition, in this embodiment, the heat exchanger is arranged outside the water tank, reducing the installation difficulty and improving the assembly efficiency. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the following will briefly introduce the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments or the prior art. Obviously, the following drawings are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those of ordinary skill in the art, without creative efforts, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings.

[0018] Figure 1 It is a schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the electric water heater of the present invention; Figure 2 It is a schematic water circuit diagram of the electric water heater of the present invention in the water use mode; Figure 3 It is a schematic water circuit diagram of the electric water heater of the present invention in the make-up water mode; Figure 4 It is a schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the electric water heater of the present invention in which the thermostatic valve is arranged on the water inlet pipe; Figure 5 It is a schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the electric water heater of the present invention in which the thermostatic valve is arranged on the water outlet pipe; Figure 6 It is a schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the electric water heater of the present invention in which the thermostatic valve is arranged on the bypass pipe and the water outlet pipe; Figure 7 It is a schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the electric water heater of the present invention in which the thermostatic valve is arranged at the connection of the water inlet pipe and the bypass pipe; Figure 8 Schematic diagram of the water circuit in another embodiment of the electric water heater of the present invention during the water usage mode; Figure 9 Schematic diagram of the water circuit in another embodiment of the electric water heater of the present invention during the water replenishment mode; Figure 10 Schematic diagram of the structure of the heat exchanger in the electric water heater of the present invention; Figure 11 Schematic diagram of the cooperative structure of the heat exchanger, water inlet pipe, water outlet pipe, constant temperature control component, and water replenishment pipeline assembly in one embodiment of the electric water heater of the present invention; Figure 12 is Figure 11 Schematic diagram of the structure after hiding the heat exchanger, constant temperature valve, and water replenishment pipeline assembly in the embodiment; Figure 13 Schematic diagram of the cooperative structure of the heat exchanger, water inlet pipe, water outlet pipe, constant temperature control component, and water replenishment pipeline assembly in another embodiment of the electric water heater of the present invention; Figure 14 is Figure 13 Cross-sectional view of the embodiment.

[0019] Explanation of the reference numerals in the drawings:

[0020] The realization of the object of the present invention, functional features, and advantages will be further described in conjunction with the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed implementation manners

[0021] Next, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, rather than all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without making creative efforts belong to the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0022] It should be noted that if there are directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back...) involved in the embodiments of the present invention, the directional indications are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement conditions between components in a specific posture (as shown in the drawings). If the specific posture changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly.

[0023] At the same time, the meaning of "and / or" or "and / or" appearing throughout the text is that it includes three solutions. Taking "A and / or B" as an example, it includes solution A, or solution B, or the solution where A and B are satisfied simultaneously.

[0024] In addition, if descriptions such as "first", "second", etc. are involved in the embodiments of the present invention, the descriptions of "first", "second", etc. are only for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the quantity of the indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one such feature. In addition, the technical solutions between various embodiments can be combined with each other, but it must be based on the fact that those skilled in the art can implement them. When the combination of technical solutions results in contradictions or cannot be implemented, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the protection scope required by the present invention.

[0025] Traditional storage water heaters usually heat the water in the inner tank with a heater and then directly supply it to users for use. However, this method has problems such as a large volume of the inner tank occupying a lot of space and being prone to bacteria growth. To solve the above problems, in related technologies, a heat exchange type electric water heater with heat exchange tubes arranged in the inner tank is adopted to realize the application of live water heating, so that the water use water path is not in direct contact with the water stored in the inner tank, improving the water use quality. However, arranging heat exchange tubes in the inner tank is difficult in terms of installation and fixation, and usually the water in the inner tank is not flowing, and the heat exchange between the water and the heater and heat exchange tubes is natural convection heat exchange, resulting in low heat exchange efficiency.

[0026] Therefore, the present invention proposes an electric water heater, aiming to simplify the assembly difficulty and improve the heat exchange efficiency while realizing the use of live water heating.

[0027] In the embodiments of the present invention, as Figures 1 to 3 and Figure 8 and Figure 9 shown, the electric water heater includes a water tank 1, a heat exchanger 3, a water inlet pipe 81, a water outlet pipe 82, a heater 2, a driving component 4, and a constant temperature control component.

[0028] The water tank 1 is provided with a water storage cavity 101; the heat exchanger 3 is externally disposed on the water tank 1, and the heat exchanger 3 has a first flow channel 31 and a second flow channel 32 that are in heat exchange connection. The first flow channel 31 is communicated with the water storage cavity 101 to form a circulation loop. The water inlet pipe 81 is used to connect the cold water inlet pipe to the inlet end of the second flow channel 32, and the water outlet pipe 82 is used to connect the hot water outlet pipe to the outlet end of the second flow channel 32; the heater 2 is used to heat the water in the circulation loop; the driving component 4 is used to drive the water in the circulation loop to circulate; the constant temperature control component is connected to the water inlet pipe 81 and the water outlet pipe 82 to adjust the water outlet temperature of the water outlet pipe 82.

[0029] In this embodiment, the water tank 1 is provided with a water inlet 102 and a water outlet 103 that communicate with the water storage chamber 101. A heat exchanger 3 is disposed outside the water tank 1. The heat exchanger 3 has a first flow channel 31 and a second flow channel 32 that are in heat exchange connection. The first flow channel 31 has a first inlet 301 and a first outlet 302, and the second flow channel 32 has a second inlet 303 and a second outlet 304. Among them, the first inlet 301 of the first flow channel 31 communicates with the water outlet 103, and the first outlet 302 of the first flow channel 31 communicates with the water inlet 102, so that the first flow channel 31 and the water storage chamber 101 form a circulation loop for the water in the water storage chamber 101. By driving the water flow in the circulation loop with the driving component 4, the function of the water circulation flow in the water storage chamber 101 is realized. The heater 2 can be externally or internally disposed in the water storage chamber 101 for heating the water in the circulation loop. Optionally, the heater 2 can be an electric heating pipe or a cast aluminum heater 2, etc. The second inlet 303 of the second flow channel 32 is connected to the water inlet pipe 81, and this water inlet pipe 81 is used to connect to the cold water inlet pipe (the cold water inlet pipe can be connected to the tap water pipe) to realize the cold water inlet function. The second outlet 304 is used to connect to the water outlet pipe 82, and this water outlet pipe 82 is used to connect to the hot water outlet pipe (the hot water outlet pipe can be connected to the water using terminal). Thus, the cold water flowing through the second flow channel 32 of the heat exchanger 3 can absorb the heat of the hot water in the first flow channel 31 and become hot water, and then flow out from the outlet end of the water outlet pipe 82 to the water using terminal for the user to use, thereby realizing the function of heating and using fresh water. Compared with directly using the water that has been heated multiple times in the water storage chamber 101, the water use quality is effectively improved.

[0030] It should be noted that the electric water heater of this embodiment further includes a constant temperature control component. This constant temperature control component is connected to the water inlet pipe 81 and the water outlet pipe 82 and is used to adjust the water outlet temperature of the water outlet pipe 82, so that the water flow temperature flowing out from the water outlet end of the water outlet pipe 82 can meet the user's needs, making the water use temperature more comfortable and improving the user experience. It can be understood that the constant temperature control component can adjust the water outlet temperature of the water outlet pipe 82 by mixing cold and hot water, or can also directly adjust it by heating or cooling. The specific structure of the constant temperature control component can not be specifically limited here. For example, it can be a mixing valve structure with two inlets and one outlet. In this case, both the water inlet pipe 81 and the water outlet pipe 82 are connected to the inlet end of the constant temperature control component and are mixed into an appropriate temperature inside the constant temperature control component and then flow out from the outlet end; for another example, it can be a flow control valve structure with one inlet and one outlet. In this case, the cold water in the water inlet pipe 81 can be introduced into the water outlet pipe 82 and mixed into an appropriate temperature and then flow out; for another example, it can be a proportional control valve structure with one inlet and two outlets. In this case, the cold water in the water inlet pipe 81 can be divided into two paths, one path is introduced into the second flow channel 32 for heating, and the other path is directly introduced into the water outlet pipe 82 and mixed with the hot water into an appropriate temperature and then flows out, and so on. As long as the water outlet temperature of the water outlet pipe 82 can be adjusted.

[0031] In this embodiment, the heat exchanger 3 is arranged outside the water tank 1. Compared with the related art where the heat exchange tubes are placed inside the water tank 1, the installation position and fixing method of this heat exchanger 3 are more flexible and simple. For example, it can be arranged inside the casing of the electric water heater, such as above, below or on the side of the water tank 1; for example, it can also be arranged outside the casing of the electric water heater, such as near the casing or near the water usage terminal, etc. In this way, the installation and fixing difficulty of the heat exchanger 3 is simplified, and the assembly efficiency is improved. The specific structure of the heat exchanger 3 can be determined according to the actual situation. For example, it can be a plate heat exchanger 3, a shell-and-tube heat exchanger 3 or some other types of heat exchangers 3, etc.

[0032] The specific installation position of the driving component 4 can be determined according to the actual situation. For example, it can be installed on the pipeline outside the water tank 1 in the circulation loop, or it can also be installed at the water inlet 102 or the water outlet 103 of the water tank 1. In actual application, considering the service life of the driving component 4, it can be selected to arrange the driving component 4 at the downstream position of the heat exchanger 3. In this way, the water temperature flowing through the driving component 4 is lower than the water temperature at the upstream position of the heat exchanger 3, which can avoid the damage of the high-temperature hot water before heat exchange to the driving component 4, thereby extending the service life of the driving component 4. Optionally, the driving component 4 can be a fixed-quota water pump structure or a variable-frequency water pump.

[0033] In summary, in the electric water heater of the technical solution of the present invention, by adopting a heat exchanger 3 with a first flow channel 31 and a second flow channel 32 connected in heat exchange arranged outside the water tank 1, the first flow channel 31 is connected with the water storage cavity 101 to form a circulation loop, the water in the circulation loop is heated by the heater 2, and the driving component 4 drives the water in the circulation loop to flow cyclically, so that the hot water in the circulation loop can heat the cold water flowing in the second flow channel 32 in the heat exchanger 3 when flowing through the first flow channel 31, realizing the function of heating and using live water; at the same time, by setting the constant temperature control component to adjust the water outlet temperature of the water outlet pipe 82, the water outlet temperature of the water outlet pipe 82 can be adjusted according to the needs of users, improving the user's water use comfort. In addition, in this embodiment, the heat exchanger 3 is arranged outside the water tank 1, and its installation difficulty is reduced, and the assembly efficiency is improved.

[0034] Please refer to Figures 1 to 7, in actual application, the constant temperature control component includes a bypass pipe 61 and a constant temperature valve 7. The bypass pipe 61 connects the water inlet pipe 81 and the water outlet pipe 82. The bypass pipe 61 allows the cold water in the water inlet pipe 81 to mix into the hot water in the water outlet pipe 82, preventing the temperature of the hot water flowing out of the hot water pipe from being too high. Among them, the connection between the bypass pipe 61 and the water inlet pipe 81 is the first connection point A, and the connection between the bypass pipe 61 and the water outlet pipe 82 is the second connection point B. It can be understood that in the water usage mode, the water in the water inlet pipe 81 is divided into two paths. One path is heated into hot water after passing through the second flow channel 32 of the heat exchanger 3 and then flows into the water outlet pipe 82. The other path directly flows into the water outlet pipe 82 via the bypass pipe 61, and after mixing with the hot water in the pipe section of the water outlet pipe 82 on the downstream side of the second connection point B, it flows out from the outlet end of the water outlet pipe 82. Among them, the total amount of water entering from the inlet end of the water inlet pipe 81 is equal to the total amount of water flowing out from the outlet end of the water outlet pipe 82. The sum of the amount of water flowing through the second flow channel 32 and the amount of water flowing through the bypass pipe 61 is the total amount of water entering from the inlet end of the water inlet pipe 81. Specifically, the constant temperature valve 7 can be used to adjust the mixing ratio of cold and hot water in the mixing pipe section of the water outlet pipe 82 (the pipe section of the water outlet pipe 82 on the downstream side of the second connection point B) to meet different water usage requirements of users. The specific structure and adjustment method of the constant temperature valve 7 can be determined according to the actual situation.

[0035] Please refer to Figure 4 , in an embodiment of the present application, the constant temperature valve 7 is provided in the pipe section of the water inlet pipe 81 on the downstream side of the first connection point A. With this setting, the water in the water inlet pipe 81 is divided into two paths. One path flows into the water outlet pipe 82 via the bypass pipe 61, and the other path flows into the second flow channel 32 of the heat exchanger 3 for heat exchange after passing through the constant temperature valve 7. In this way, the constant temperature valve 7 is used to adjust the water flow rate entering the second flow channel 32, that is, to adjust the amount of hot water in the water outlet pipe 82. Thus, when the total amount of water is certain, the constant temperature valve 7 can be used to adjust the ratio of the amount of water in the bypass pipe 61 and the second flow channel 32, and further adjust the mixing ratio of cold and hot water in the mixing pipe section of the water outlet pipe 82 (the pipe section of the water outlet pipe 82 on the downstream side of the second connection point B), achieving the function of adjusting the water outlet temperature of the water outlet pipe 82. Optionally, the constant temperature valve 7 is a one-in-one-out flow control valve for adjusting the water flow rate entering the second flow channel 32 in the water inlet pipe 81, and a stepping motor can be used for driving and adjusting.

[0036] Please refer to Figure 1, in an embodiment of the present application, the constant temperature valve 7 is provided on the bypass pipe 61. In this way, the constant temperature valve 7 is used to adjust the water flow rate through the bypass pipe 61, that is, when the total water volume is constant, the constant temperature valve 7 can adjust the proportion of the water volume entering the bypass pipe 61 and the water volume entering the second flow channel 32, and further adjust the cold and hot water mixing ratio in the mixing pipe section of the outlet pipe 82 (the pipe section of the outlet pipe 82 downstream of the second connection B), so as to achieve the function of adjusting the outlet water temperature of the outlet pipe 82. Optionally, the constant temperature valve 7 is a one-in-one-out flow control valve for adjusting the water flow rate through the bypass pipe 61, and a stepper motor can be used for driving adjustment.

[0037] Please refer to Figure 5 , in an embodiment of the present application, the constant temperature valve 7 is provided on the pipe section of the outlet pipe 82 upstream of the second connection B. In this way, the constant temperature valve 7 is used to adjust the water flow rate through the second flow channel 32, that is, to adjust the amount of hot water in the pipe section of the outlet pipe 82 upstream of the second connection B. When the total water volume is constant, the constant temperature valve 7 can adjust the proportion of the water volume entering the bypass pipe 61 and the water volume entering the second flow channel 32, and further adjust the cold and hot water mixing ratio in the mixing pipe section of the outlet pipe 82 (the pipe section of the outlet pipe 82 downstream of the second connection B), so as to achieve the function of adjusting the outlet water temperature of the outlet pipe 82. Optionally, the constant temperature valve 7 is a one-in-one-out flow control valve for adjusting the water flow rate through the pipe section of the outlet pipe 82 upstream of the second connection B, and a stepper motor can be used for driving adjustment.

[0038] Please refer to Figure 6 , in an embodiment of the present application, constant temperature valves 7 are provided on both the bypass pipe 61 and the pipe section of the outlet pipe 82 upstream of the second connection B. In this way, the two constant temperature valves 7 can not only adjust the water flow rate through the bypass pipe 61, that is, adjust the amount of cold water mixed into the mixing pipe section of the outlet pipe 82 (the pipe section of the outlet pipe 82 downstream of the second connection B); but also adjust the water flow rate through the pipe section of the outlet pipe 82 upstream of the second connection B, that is, adjust the amount of hot water mixed into the mixing pipe section of the outlet pipe 82 (the pipe section of the outlet pipe 82 downstream of the second connection B). In this way, the adjustment of the cold and hot water mixing ratio in the mixing pipe section of the outlet pipe 82 can be realized, and further the function of adjusting the outlet water temperature of the outlet pipe 82 can be realized. Optionally, the constant temperature valve 7 is a one-in-one-out flow control valve for adjusting the water flow rate through the bypass pipe 61 and the water flow rate through the pipe section of the outlet pipe 82 upstream of the second connection B, and a stepper motor can be used for driving adjustment.

[0039] Please refer to Figure 7, in an embodiment of the present application, the constant temperature valve 7 is arranged at the first connection A. In this way, the constant temperature valve 7 can be a proportional valve with one inlet and two outlets. Its inlet end is connected to the water inlet side of the water inlet pipe 81, and the two outlet ends are respectively connected to the bypass pipe 61 and the pipe section of the water inlet pipe 81 on the downstream side of the first connection A. The cold water entering from the water inlet pipe 81 can be split into the bypass pipe 61 and the second flow channel 32 by the constant temperature valve 7 in a certain proportion, so as to adjust the mixing ratio of cold and hot water in the mixing pipe section of the water outlet pipe 82, and further realize the function of adjusting the water outlet temperature of the water outlet pipe 82.

[0040] It should be noted that in actual application, the constant temperature valve 7 is not limited to the above several embodiments, and can also be some other embodiments, etc.

[0041] In order to further improve the adjustment accuracy of the water outlet temperature, in the embodiment of the present application, a temperature sensor 91 is arranged on the pipe section of the water inlet pipe 81 on the upstream side of the first connection A, and a temperature sensor 91 is arranged on the pipe section of the water outlet pipe 82 on the downstream side of the second connection B; a water flow sensor 92 is arranged on the pipe section of the water inlet pipe 81 on the upstream side of the first connection A; the water flow sensor 92 and the two temperature sensors 91 are both electrically connected to the constant temperature valve 7.

[0042] It can be understood that when the water outlet temperature is too high, the cold water volume in the bypass pipe 61 can be appropriately increased. At this time, the hot water volume flowing out through the second flow channel 32 will be correspondingly reduced to lower the water outlet temperature; when the water outlet temperature is too low, the cold water volume in the bypass pipe 61 can be appropriately reduced. At this time, the hot water volume flowing out through the second flow channel 32 will be correspondingly increased to increase the water outlet temperature.

[0043] In this embodiment, the temperature sensor 91 in the water inlet pipe 81 is used to detect the temperature of the cold water inlet, which is the temperature before heat exchange in the second flow channel 32 and the temperature of the cold water in the bypass pipe 61; the temperature sensor 91 in the water outlet pipe 82 is used to detect the water outlet temperature of the water outlet pipe 82; the water flow sensor 92 is used to detect the total water inlet volume of the water inlet pipe 81. By electrically connecting the two temperature sensors 91 and the water flow sensor 92 to the constant temperature valve 7, the constant temperature valve 7 can adjust the mixing ratio of cold and hot water in the mixing pipe section of the water outlet pipe 82 according to the cold water inlet temperature, the total water inlet volume and the water outlet temperature of the water outlet pipe 82, so as to achieve a more accurate water use temperature and meet the user's needs. In actual application, it can be that the water flow sensor 92 and the two temperature sensors 91 are both connected to the main control module of the water heater, and the main control module controls and adjusts the constant temperature valve 7 to realize the control of the water outlet temperature.

[0044] Further, please refer to Figures 1 to 7 , a first one-way valve 62 is arranged on the bypass pipe 61 to unidirectionally conduct the flow path from the water inlet pipe 81 to the water outlet pipe 82.

[0045] With such a setting, it is possible to prevent the hot water in the outlet pipe 82 from flowing back into the inlet pipe 81. Compared with the structure of the mixing valve with two inlets and one outlet in the related art, this embodiment can prevent the cold and hot water from flowing back, can more accurately control the mixing ratio of the cold and hot water, and achieve a more precise control of the outlet water temperature.

[0046] Please refer to Figures 1 to 9 , in actual application, the specific type of the water tank 1 can be determined according to the actual situation. For example, it can be a pressurized box or an open box. In this embodiment, considering factors such as service life and volume shape, as an example, the water tank 1 adopts an open box, a cavity is provided at the top of the water storage cavity 101, and the water tank 1 is also provided with an overflow exhaust pipe 83 communicating with the cavity.

[0047] It can be understood that the water tank 1 is a non-pressurized water tank 1. By providing a cavity at the top of the water storage cavity 101, the water tank 1 realizes the communication between the cavity and the outside through the overflow exhaust pipe 83, providing sufficient heating expansion space for the water inside the water storage cavity 101, so that the water tank 1 does not bear the expansion pressure of the water heating in the water storage cavity 101, and the service life can be effectively improved. In addition, based on this, the shape of the water tank 1 can be determined according to the actual situation. For example, it can be rectangular, square or some other shapes, rather than being limited to the traditional cylindrical shape. Optionally, the overflow exhaust pipe 83 is installed on the bottom wall of the water tank 1, the inlet end of the overflow exhaust pipe 83 extends upward to the cavity, and the outlet end extends out of the bottom wall of the water tank 1 and communicates with the outside.

[0048] After the electric water heater has been used normally for a period of time, the water level in the water storage cavity 101 may be low, resulting in insufficient water volume in the circulation loop, affecting the heat exchange efficiency or causing the problem of dry burning of the heater 2. Based on this, in an embodiment of the present application, the electric water heater further includes a makeup water pipeline assembly 5. The inlet end of the makeup water pipeline assembly 5 is connected to the inlet pipe 81, and the outlet end of the makeup water pipeline assembly 5 is connected to the circulation loop. In the makeup water mode, the water inlet in the inlet pipe 81 can flow through the makeup water pipeline assembly 5 to the circulation loop, and then flow back to the water storage cavity 101 through the circulation loop to realize the function of making up water in the water storage cavity 101. It should be noted that the makeup water pipeline assembly 5 of this embodiment is in a normally closed state during the normal water use of the water heater to prevent the circulation loop from flowing back with the water use waterway. After the water use mode of the water heater is closed, that is, when the water use terminal is in the closed state and the water storage cavity 101 needs to be made up with water, the makeup water pipeline assembly 5 is opened to perform the makeup water operation.

[0049] It can be understood that the specific connection position of the outlet end of the make-up water pipeline assembly 5 to the circulation loop may not be specifically limited herein. For example, it can be connected to the inlet 102 / outlet 103 position of the water storage cavity 101 in the circulation loop, or it can be connected to a position near the heat exchanger 3 in the circulation loop, or other positions, etc. The specific connection position of the inlet end of the make-up water pipeline assembly 5 to the water inlet pipe 81 can also not be limited. For example, it can be connected to the pipe section of the water inlet pipe 81 upstream of the first connection point A, or it can be connected to the pipe section of the water inlet pipe 81 downstream of the first connection point A.

[0050] Please refer to Figures 1 to 9 , in an embodiment of the present application, the connection part of the outlet end of the make-up water pipeline assembly 5 to the circulation loop is arranged on the upstream side of the driving component 4.

[0051] It can be understood that in the water usage mode, the operation of the driving component 4 can drive the water in the circulation loop to circulate. In the make-up water mode, the make-up water pipeline assembly 5 replenishes water into the water storage cavity 101. According to the different connection positions of the outlet end of the make-up water pipeline assembly 5, the operating state of the driving component 4 is different. When the outlet end of the make-up water pipeline assembly 5 is connected to the inlet 102 of the water storage cavity 101, the driving component 4 is in a stopped operating state in the make-up water mode. After the driving component 4 stops operating for a period of time, there may be a cavity at its inlet end. When it is turned on again, an idling phenomenon may occur. Based on this, in this embodiment, by arranging the connection part of the outlet end of the make-up water pipeline assembly 5 to the circulation loop on the upstream side of the driving component 4, it can ensure that there is water flow at the inlet end of the driving component 4 whether in the water usage mode or the make-up water mode, so as to achieve the effect of preventing the driving component 4 from idling.

[0052] Please refer to Figures 1 to 9 , in an embodiment of the present application, the driving component 4 is arranged on the downstream side of the first flow channel 31.

[0053] It can be understood that in the water usage mode, after the hot water in the first flow channel 31 exchanges heat with the cold water in the second flow channel 32, the water temperature decreases. By arranging the driving component 4 on the downstream side of the first flow channel 31, the water temperature flowing through the driving component 4 is lower than the water temperature at the upstream position of the first flow channel 31, which can avoid damage to the driving component 4 by high-temperature hot water, thereby extending the service life of the driving component 4.

[0054] Specifically, the make-up water pipeline assembly 5 includes a make-up water pipe 51, a solenoid valve 52, and a second one-way valve 53. The make-up water pipe 51 connects the water inlet pipe 81 and the circulation loop; the solenoid valve 52 is arranged on the make-up water pipe 51 to control the on-off of the make-up water pipe 51; the second one-way valve 53 is arranged on the make-up water pipe 51 and is located on the downstream side of the solenoid valve 52 to unidirectionally conduct the flow path from the water inlet pipe 81 to the circulation loop.

[0055] In this embodiment, through the combined action of the solenoid valve 52 and the second one-way valve 53, the operation of smoothly replenishing water into the water tank 1 is realized, and at the same time, the water in the circulation loop can be prevented from flowing into the water inlet pipe 81 or the second flow channel 32. Specifically, the inlet end of the water replenishing pipe 51 is communicated with the water inlet pipe 81, which is equivalent to a bypass branch of the water inlet pipe 81. The solenoid valve 52 and the second one-way valve 53 are both arranged on the water replenishing pipe 51, and the second one-way valve 53 is located on the downstream side of the solenoid valve 52. The solenoid valve 52 controls the on-off of the water flow path of the water replenishing pipe 51, and the second one-way valve 53 plays a role of unidirectionally conducting the water flow path from the water inlet pipe 81 to the circulation loop when the solenoid valve 52 is opened, avoiding water cross-flow. Optionally, the solenoid valve 52 can be a normally closed solenoid valve 52, which is closed in the normal water use mode of the water heater and opened when the water tank 1 needs to be replenished. Such a design has a better water cross-flow prevention effect compared with a water replenishing valve that only uses a single control valve to control on-off.

[0056] Please refer to Figures 1 to 7 , in an embodiment of the present application, the heater 2 is externally disposed outside the water tank 1 and is located on the upstream side of the first flow channel 31.

[0057] In this embodiment, the heater 2 is an external heater 2. Compared with the method of disposing the heater 2 inside the water tank 1, on the one hand, it is more convenient for installation, and on the other hand, it can make the box structure of the water tank 1 more complete without the need to open an installation opening for the heater 2, simplifying the structure of the water tank 1 and making the forming process of the water tank 1 simpler. Optionally, the heater 2 is a cast aluminum heater 2, and a heating flow channel communicated with the circulation loop is provided inside the heater 2.

[0058] By disposing the heater 2 on the upstream side of the first flow channel 31, it is ensured that the water flow is heated into hot water before entering the first flow channel 31 of the heat exchanger 3, so as to ensure the function of the first flow channel 31 to heat the cold water in the second flow channel 32 and improve the heat exchange efficiency.

[0059] Furthermore, the outlet end of the water replenishing pipeline assembly 5 is located on the upstream side of the heater 2.

[0060] With such a setting, in the water replenishing mode, the cold water flowing into the circulation loop from the water replenishing pipeline assembly 5 can first pass through the heater 2 and then enter the heat exchanger 3 and the water tank 1. It can be understood that in this mode, the heater 2 can be turned on or off. When it is turned on, the replenished water entering the water storage cavity 101 can be hot water. Through the heat preservation function of the water tank 1, when using water again, the water flowing out of the water storage cavity 101 has a certain temperature, so as to improve the heating efficiency of the water in the circulation loop and shorten the hot water preparation time. In some embodiments, in the water replenishing mode, the heater 2 can also be not turned on. At this time, on the one hand, it can avoid heat dissipation when the replenished water passes through the heat exchanger 3, and on the other hand, it can avoid the phenomenon of stop water temperature rise caused by the first flow channel 31 heating the water in the second flow channel 32.

[0061] See also Figures 1 to 7 In one embodiment of the present application, a water inlet assembly 11 and a water outlet assembly 12 are provided in the water tank 1. The water inlet assembly 11 is installed at the water inlet 102, and the water outlet assembly 12 is installed at the water outlet 103. The water outlet assembly 12 is provided with a filter 13 to prevent scale in the water tank 1 from entering the external pipeline of the water tank 1 and causing blockage. Optionally, the water inlet assembly 11 is provided in the upper area of the water tank 1, and the water outlet assembly 12 is provided in the lower area of the water tank 1, so that the water flow entering from the water inlet assembly 11 can squeeze the cold water in the lower area of the water tank 1 from the water outlet assembly 12 into the circulation loop to be heated by the heater 2, so that the water in the water tank 1 and the water in the circulation loop are forced to convect, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the circulating water circuit, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency, and accelerating the preparation of hot water.

[0062] The working mode of the electric water heater will be explained below in the form of an embodiment. It can be understood that the electric water heater has a water use mode and a water replenishment mode, wherein the water use mode is a mode when the user releases water for use at the water use terminal, and the water replenishment mode is a mode when water is replenished into the water storage chamber 101 of the water tank 1 through the water replenishment pipeline assembly 5 when the water use mode is turned off.

[0063] Take the case where the heater 2 is built in the water tank 1 as an example.

[0064] See also Figure 8 In the water use mode, the water supply pipeline assembly 5 is closed, the heater 2 and the driving component 4 are turned on, and the water in the water storage chamber 101 flows back to the water storage chamber 101 after heat exchange through the first flow channel 31; the water in the water inlet pipe 81 flows to the water outlet pipe 82 through the second flow channel 32 and the bypass pipe 61 respectively, and then flows out for use after mixing. In this mode, the water in the circulation loop circulates under the action of the driving component 4, and the hot water flowing out of the water storage chamber 101 flows into the first flow channel 31 to exchange heat with the cold water in the second flow channel 32, and then flows back to the water storage chamber 101 through the water inlet 102, and is heated again by the heater 2, and then flows into the first flow channel 31 to heat the cold water flowing in the second flow channel 32. At the same time, in the water circuit, cold water enters from the inlet end of the water inlet pipe 81, and then is divided into two paths. One path enters the second flow channel 32, is heated into hot water by the first flow channel 31, and then flows into the water outlet pipe 82. The other path enters the water outlet pipe 82 through the bypass pipe 61, mixes with the hot water, and then flows out from the water terminal.

[0065] See also Figure 9, in the water replenishing mode, the outlet end of the water outlet pipe 82 is closed, the water replenishing pipeline assembly 5 is opened, and the water in the water inlet pipe 81 flows through the water replenishing pipeline assembly 5 and the circulation loop into the water storage cavity 101. In this mode, the water using waterway is in a closed state, the solenoid valve 52 of the water replenishing pipeline assembly 5 is opened, the water replenishing pipe is in a conducting state, and the cold water entering from the inlet end of the water inlet pipe 81 will directly enter the water replenishing pipe, flow through the circulation loop into the water storage cavity 101 for water replenishing operation until the water level in the water storage cavity 101 reaches the preset water level, and then the water replenishing stops.

[0066] Taking the heater 2 being externally placed on the water tank 1 as an example.

[0067] Please refer to Figure 2 , in the water using mode, the water in the water storage cavity 101 sequentially passes through the heater 2, the first flow channel 31, and the driving component 4 and then flows back into the water storage cavity 101; the water in the water inlet pipe 81 respectively flows through the second flow channel 32 and the bypass pipe 61 into the water outlet pipe 82, mixes and then flows out for use. In this mode, the water in the circulation loop circulates under the action of the driving component 4. The water flowing out from the water storage cavity 101 is heated by the heater 2 and then flows into the first flow channel 31 for heat exchange with the cold water in the second flow channel 32, and then flows back into the water storage cavity 101 through the water inlet 102. At the same time, the water in the water storage cavity 101 flows out from the water outlet 103, is heated by the heater 2 again, and then flows into the first flow channel 31 to heat the cold water flowing in the second flow channel 32. Meanwhile, in the water using waterway, the cold water enters from the inlet end of the water inlet pipe 81 and then is divided into two paths. One path enters the second flow channel 32, is heated into hot water by the first flow channel 31 and then flows into the water outlet pipe 82, and the other path enters the water outlet pipe 82 through the bypass pipe 61, mixes with the hot water and then flows out from the water using terminal.

[0068] Please refer to Figure 3 , in the water replenishing mode, the outlet end of the water outlet pipe 82 is closed (that is, the water using terminal is closed), the water replenishing pipeline assembly 5 is opened (the solenoid valve 52 is opened), and the water in the water inlet pipe 81 flows through the water replenishing pipeline assembly 5 and the circulation loop into the water storage cavity 101. In this mode, the water using waterway is in a closed state, the solenoid valve 52 of the water replenishing pipeline assembly 5 is opened, the water replenishing pipe 51 is in a conducting state, and the cold water entering from the inlet end of the water inlet pipe 81 will directly enter the water replenishing pipe 51, flow through the circulation loop into the water storage cavity 101 for water replenishing operation until the water level in the water storage cavity 101 reaches the preset water level, and then the water replenishing stops. Specifically, taking the outlet end of the water replenishing pipeline assembly 5 being connected to the upstream side of the heater 2 as an example, in the water replenishing mode, the cold water sequentially passes through the water inlet pipe 81, the water replenishing pipe 51 (solenoid valve 52, second one-way valve 53), the heater 2, the first flow channel 31, and the driving component 4 and then enters the water storage cavity 101.

[0069] It can be understood that in the water replenishing mode, the heater 2 can be turned on or off. Please refer to Figure 3In this embodiment, considering the efficiency of hot water preparation, the heater 2 can be turned on in the water replenishment mode, so that in the water replenishment mode, the cold water is heated to hot water before entering the water tank 1. Through the insulation effect of the water tank 1, when the water is used again, the water flowing out of the water storage chamber 101 has a certain temperature, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the water in the circulation loop and shortening the time for hot water preparation.

[0070] In actual application, a water level sensor can be set in the water tank 1 to detect the water level in the water storage chamber 101. The water level sensor can be electrically connected to the main control module of the electric water heater. When the water level is insufficient, the main control module controls the solenoid valve 52 of the water replenishment pipeline assembly 5 to open to implement the water replenishment operation; when the water level meets the preset water level, the main control module controls the solenoid valve 52 to close and stop replenishing water.

[0071] It is understandable that in actual applications, various control valves and pipelines may be distributed more dispersedly, resulting in a larger occupied space and an increase in the overall size of the electric water heater. Figures 10 to 14 In one embodiment of the present application, the related pipelines and control valve structures connected to the heat exchanger 3 can be integrated into an integral valve group structure. By directly assembling the integral valve group structure with the heat exchanger 3, the overall structural layout can be simplified, the occupied space in the water heater can be reduced, and the volume of the water heater can be miniaturized. For the convenience of position and direction description, the installation state of the water heater mounted on the installation wall (such as a wall surface) is taken as an example, wherein the height direction of the water heater is the direction extending upward along the installation wall surface, the width direction of the water heater is the left and right direction when facing the installation wall surface, and the thickness direction of the water heater is the normal direction of the installation wall surface. Optionally, the heat exchanger 3 is a plate heat exchanger 3, one side of the heat exchanger 3 in the thickness direction is installed on one side of the water tank 1 in the width direction, and the water inlet pipe 81, the water outlet pipe 82, the constant temperature control component and the water supply pipeline assembly 5 are arranged on the side of the heat exchanger 3 away from the water tank 1. At this time, the thickness direction of the heat exchanger 3 is consistent with the width direction of the water heater, the height direction of the heat exchanger 3 is consistent with the height direction of the water heater, and the width direction of the heat exchanger 3 is consistent with the thickness direction of the water heater. The water inlet pipe 81 and the water outlet pipe 82 are extended along the height direction of the heat exchanger 3 , and the bypass pipe 61 is extended along the width direction of the heat exchanger 3 .

[0072] See also Figure 11 and Figure 12 In one embodiment, the water supply pipeline assembly 5 is disposed opposite to the side wall of the heat exchanger 3, and the thermostatic valve 7 is disposed opposite to the side wall of the heat exchanger 3. In this way, the lateral space of the water heater can be fully utilized, the height of the water heater can be reduced, and the compactness of the structural layout can be improved.

[0073] See also Figure 13 and Figure 14, in one embodiment, the make-up water pipeline assembly 5 is arranged in the lower area of the heat exchanger 3, and the thermostatic valve 7 is arranged in the lower area of the heat exchanger 3. In this way, the space below the water heater can be fully utilized, and the lateral dimension of the whole machine can be reduced.

[0074] The above are only the preferred embodiments of the present invention, and do not limit the patent scope of the present invention accordingly. Any equivalent structural transformation made by using the content of the specification and drawings of the present invention under the inventive concept of the present invention, or any direct / indirect application in other related technical fields shall be included in the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An electric water heater, characterized in that, Comprising: A water tank provided with a water storage chamber; A heat exchanger externally disposed on the water tank, the heat exchanger having a first flow channel and a second flow channel in heat exchange connection, the first flow channel communicating with the water storage chamber to form a circulation loop; An inlet pipe and an outlet pipe, the inlet pipe being used to connect a cold water inlet pipe to the inlet end of the second flow channel, and the outlet pipe being used to connect a hot water outlet pipe to the outlet end of the second flow channel; A heater for heating the water in the circulation loop; A driving component for driving the water in the circulation loop to circulate; and A constant temperature control component connected to the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe for adjusting the water outlet temperature of the outlet pipe.

2. The electric water heater according to claim 1, wherein, The constant temperature control component includes a bypass pipe and a constant temperature valve, the bypass pipe communicating the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe, defining the connection point of the bypass pipe and the inlet pipe as the first connection point, and the connection point of the bypass pipe and the outlet pipe as the second connection point; The constant temperature valve is provided on the pipe section of the inlet pipe downstream of the first connection point; Or, the constant temperature valve is provided at the first connection point; Or, the constant temperature valve is provided on the bypass pipe; Or, the constant temperature valve is provided on the pipe section of the outlet pipe upstream of the second connection point; Or, the bypass pipe and the pipe section of the outlet pipe upstream of the second connection point are both provided with the constant temperature valve.

3. The electric water heater according to claim 2, characterized in that, The pipe section of the inlet pipe upstream of the first connection point is provided with a temperature sensor, and the pipe section of the outlet pipe downstream of the second connection point is provided with a temperature sensor; the pipe section of the inlet pipe upstream of the first connection point is provided with a water flow sensor; The water flow sensor and the two temperature sensors are both electrically connected to the constant temperature valve.

4. The electric water heater according to claim 2, characterized in that, The bypass pipe is provided with a first one-way valve for unidirectionally conducting the flow path from the inlet pipe to the outlet pipe.

5. The electric water heater according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The electric water heater further includes a water replenishing pipeline assembly, the inlet end of the water replenishing pipeline assembly is connected to the inlet pipe, and the outlet end of the water replenishing pipeline assembly is connected to the circulation loop.

6. The electric water heater according to claim 5, characterized in that The driving component is provided on the downstream side of the first flow channel; The connection part of the outlet end of the water replenishing pipeline assembly and the circulation loop is provided on the upstream side of the driving component.

7. The electric water heater according to claim 5, characterized in that, The water replenishing pipeline assembly includes: A water replenishing pipe communicating the inlet pipe and the circulation loop; A solenoid valve provided on the water replenishing pipe for controlling the on-off of the water replenishing pipe; and A second one-way valve provided on the water replenishing pipe and located on the downstream side of the solenoid valve for unidirectionally conducting the flow path from the inlet pipe to the circulation loop.

8. The electric water heater according to claim 5, characterized in that, The electric water heater has a water usage mode and a water replenishing mode: In the water usage mode, the water replenishing pipeline assembly is closed, the heater and the driving component are turned on, the water in the water storage chamber returns to the water storage chamber after heat exchange through the first flow channel; the water in the inlet pipe flows into the outlet pipe through the second flow channel and the bypass pipe respectively and is mixed and then flows out for use; In the water replenishing mode, the outlet end of the outlet pipe is closed, the water replenishing pipeline assembly is opened, and the water in the inlet pipe flows into the water storage chamber through the water replenishing pipeline assembly and the circulation loop.

9. The electric water heater according to claim 8, characterized in that, The heater is externally disposed outside the water tank and is located on the upstream side of the first flow channel; In the water usage mode, the water in the water storage cavity sequentially passes through the heater, the first flow channel, and the driving component and then flows back into the water storage cavity; the water in the water inlet pipe respectively flows through the second flow channel and the bypass pipe and then flows into the water outlet pipe for mixing and then flows out for use.

10. The electric water heater according to claim 9, characterized in that, The outlet end of the make-up water pipeline assembly is connected to the upstream side of the heater; In the make-up water mode, the water in the water inlet pipe flows through the make-up water pipeline assembly, the heater, and the first flow channel and then flows into the water storage cavity.

11. The electric water heater according to claim 10, characterized in that, In the make-up water mode, the heater is turned on.

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