Thermostatic water circuit device and water heater

Abstract

This invention relates to the technical field of water heaters, providing a constant temperature water circuit device and a water heater. The constant temperature water circuit device includes a cold water pipe, a constant temperature component, and a switching valve. The cold water pipe has a first cold water inlet, a first cold water outlet, and a second cold water outlet. The constant temperature component includes an outer pipe and a constant temperature valve. The outer pipe has a third cold water inlet, a hot water inlet, and a mixed water outlet. The switching valve includes an operating part and a switching valve core. The switching valve core is located inside the cold water pipe. The operating part is adapted to drive the switching valve core to switch between a water filling position and a constant temperature position. In the water filling position, the third cold water inlet and the second cold water outlet are disconnected. In the constant temperature position, the third cold water inlet and the first cold water inlet are connected through the second cold water outlet. During water filling, the path of cold water flowing directly to the constant temperature valve is physically blocked, which helps to avoid user misjudgment and thus avoids the risk of dry burning when the user first powers on the water heater. The operation is also more convenient.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of water heaters, and in particular to a constant temperature water circuit device and a water heater. Background Technology

[0002] As people's living standards continue to improve, their demands for quality of life are also increasing. Currently, most residents use water heaters as their source of domestic hot water. However, due to energy storage requirements, water heaters typically heat the water inside the tank to 65°C or even higher, posing a risk of scalding to users. To avoid such accidents, relevant technologies usually include a thermostatic valve on the water heater to limit the outlet water temperature.

[0003] However, due to the characteristics of water heaters, the tank needs to be filled with water before first use. The presence of water at the mixing water outlet is used to determine whether water is flowing out. However, due to manufacturing processes or water temperature settings, water heaters equipped with thermostatic valves may have water flowing out of the mixing water outlet when filling. This can lead to a misjudgment, where the user mistakenly believes that the tank is full and then turns on the power, which can cause risks such as dry burning. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in related technologies. To this end, this invention proposes a constant temperature water circuit device for a water heater, which helps to avoid user misjudgment and prevent the risk of dry burning.

[0005] The present invention also proposes a water heater.

[0006] A constant temperature water circuit device for a water heater according to a first aspect embodiment of the present invention includes:

[0007] The cold water pipe has a first cold water inlet, a first cold water outlet and a second cold water outlet. The first cold water inlet is used to connect to a water source and the first cold water outlet is used to connect to the second cold water inlet of the inner tank of the water heater.

[0008] The thermostatic component includes an outer tube and a thermostatic valve located inside the outer tube. The outer tube has a third cold water inlet, a hot water inlet, and a mixed water outlet. The hot water inlet is used to connect to the hot water outlet of the inner tank of the water heater.

[0009] The switching valve includes an operating part and a switching valve core. The switching valve core is located inside the cold water pipe. The operating part is adapted to drive the switching valve core to switch between a water injection position and a constant temperature position. In the water injection position, the third cold water inlet and the second cold water outlet are disconnected. In the constant temperature position, the third cold water inlet and the first cold water inlet are connected through the second cold water outlet.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the thermostatic water circuit device of the water heater includes a switching valve. The user operates the control unit to move the switching valve core to switch its working position. During water filling, the switching valve core moves to the water filling position, disconnecting the third cold water inlet and the second cold water outlet, thereby cutting off the pipeline to the thermostatic valve and physically blocking the path of cold water directly flowing to the thermostatic valve. After the water heater's inner tank is full, the user can use the control unit to move the switching valve core to the thermostatic position. At this time, the third cold water inlet and the first cold water inlet are connected through the second cold water outlet. Cold water enters the thermostatic valve through the third cold water inlet, and hot water enters the thermostatic valve through the hot water inlet. After mixing to the preset temperature, the mixture is discharged from the mixed water outlet, meeting normal usage requirements. Through the design of the above-mentioned switching valve structure, mechanical isolation and water circuit path reconstruction are achieved, which helps avoid user misjudgment and thus avoids the risk of dry burning during initial power-on. Furthermore, the operation is relatively convenient.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the operating part includes a knob, and the opposite sides of the knob are respectively provided with markings corresponding to the water injection position and the constant temperature position;

[0012] The switching valve core includes a pipe section adapted to the inner wall of the cold water pipe. The pipe section has a pair of through holes that penetrate the opposite side walls of the pipe section. The through holes are connected to the first cold water outlet. The side wall of the pipe section also has a water outlet. At the constant temperature position, the first cold water inlet, the water outlet, the second cold water outlet, and the third cold water inlet are connected in sequence.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the switching valve further includes a sealing section located between the operating part and the pipe section, and an elastic sealing ring is provided between the sealing section and the inner wall of the cold water pipe.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the angle between the through hole and the water outlet along the outer periphery of the pipe section is 90 degrees, and the angle difference between the water injection position and the constant temperature position corresponding to the knob is 180°.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the thermostatic valve includes:

[0016] A bias spring is located inside the outer tube;

[0017] A temperature regulating component is at least partially connected to the outer tube, and the temperature regulating component is used to adjust the compression of the bias spring in order to regulate the outlet water temperature of the thermostatic component.

[0018] The temperature regulating component and the switching valve are located on the same side of the constant temperature water circuit device.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first cold water outlet and the hot water inlet are located on the same side of the constant temperature water circuit device, and the first cold water inlet and the mixed water outlet are located on the same side of the constant temperature water circuit device.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the thermostatic valve includes:

[0021] Valve housing, used to be fixed to the outer tube;

[0022] The valve core body can slide relative to the valve housing, and forms a cold water flow path and a hot water flow path between the valve core body and the valve housing;

[0023] A flow guide sleeve is installed inside the valve housing. A flow guide cavity is formed between the flow guide sleeve and the valve core body. A water outlet cavity is formed between the flow guide sleeve and the valve housing. The water outlet cavity and the mixed water outlet are connected in sequence. The flow guide cavity is used to mix the hot water flow path and the cold water flow path upstream of the water outlet cavity.

[0024] A thermistor, installed in the water outlet chamber, is adapted to move the guide sleeve and the valve core body when it senses a change in the water temperature in the water outlet chamber, so as to change the flow rate of the cold water flow path and the flow rate of the hot water flow path.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the inner wall of the valve core body is formed with a guide slope corresponding to the flow guide sleeve, and the flow guide cavity is formed between the guide slope and the flow guide sleeve.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a mixing chamber is further formed inside the flow guide sleeve, the mixing chamber is located upstream of the water outlet chamber, and the thermal element is fixed to the water outlet end of the mixing chamber.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the thermostatic valve further includes:

[0028] A mounting base is used to fix the first end of the bias spring. The mounting base and the valve housing are threaded together. The second end of the bias spring is used to connect to the valve core body.

[0029] A water heater according to a second aspect embodiment of the present invention includes:

[0030] The enclosure assembly, including the inner liner;

[0031] The constant temperature water circuit device of the water heater described in the first aspect embodiment.

[0032] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0033] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in this invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the constant temperature water circuit device provided in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the area where the switching valve is installed in the constant temperature water circuit device provided in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional diagram of the switching valve and the cold water pipe.

[0037] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the switching valve.

[0038] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the switching valve cross-section.

[0039] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the temperature control component area of ​​the temperature control water circuit device provided in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the cross-section of a thermostatic valve.

[0041] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a thermostatic valve.

[0042] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the flow guide sleeve.

[0043] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the cross-section of the flow guide sleeve.

[0044] Figure label:

[0045] 100. Cold water pipe; 110. First cold water inlet; 120. First cold water outlet; 130. Second cold water outlet; 200. Thermostatic component; 210. Outer pipe; 211. Third cold water inlet; 212. Hot water inlet; 213. Mixed water outlet; 220. Thermostatic valve; 221. Offset spring; 222. Temperature regulating component; 223. Valve housing; 2231. Sealing groove; 2232. Sealing ring installation; 223a. First housing; 223a1. Water outlet channel; 223b. Second housing; 223c. Third housing 224. Valve core body; 2241. Guide slope; 2242. Hot water inlet chamber; 2243. Cold water inlet chamber; 2244. Connecting pipe; 22441. Flared section; 225. Flow guide sleeve; 2251. Water outlet chamber; 2252. Flow guide surface; 2253. Mixing chamber; 226. Flow guide chamber; 227. Thermistor element; 228. Mounting base; 2254. Mounting part; 22541. Annular protrusion; 2255. Flow guide platform; 2256. Flow guide plate; 2257. Flow guide channel; 22551. Slot;

[0046] 300. Switching valve; 310. Operating unit; 311. Knob; 3111. Marking; 320. Switching valve core; 321. Pipe section; 3211. Through hole; 3212. Water outlet; 330. Sealing section; 340. Elastic sealing ring;

[0047] 410. First sealing ring; 420. Second sealing ring; 430. Third sealing ring; A. Cold water flow path; B. Hot water flow path; C. First annular cavity; D. Second annular cavity; O. Central shaft. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0049] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of the present invention. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0050] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0051] In embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0052] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0053] The following is combined with Figures 1-10 The constant temperature water circuit device and the water heater according to embodiments of the present invention will be described. It will be understood that the water heater includes a tank assembly and a constant temperature water circuit device, the tank assembly including an inner tank.

[0054] Understandably, referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some examples of the present invention, the constant temperature water circuit device of the water heater includes a cold water pipe 100, a constant temperature component 200, and a switching valve 300.

[0055] Reference Figures 1 to 3In this embodiment, the cold water pipe 100 has a first cold water inlet 110, a first cold water outlet 120, and a second cold water outlet 130. The first cold water inlet 110 is used to connect to a water source. The inner tank is provided with a second cold water inlet, and the first cold water outlet 120 and the second cold water inlet can be connected by a pipeline.

[0056] It should be noted that the cold water pipe 100 is integrally formed with a first cold water inlet 110, a first cold water outlet 120 and a second cold water outlet 130; the type of water source connected to the first cold water inlet 110 is municipal water supply, water pump, etc.

[0057] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The thermostatic component 200 includes an outer pipe 210 and a thermostatic valve 220 located inside the outer pipe 210. A third cold water inlet 211, a hot water inlet 212 and a mixed water outlet 213 are formed on the outer pipe 210.

[0058] The inner tank is also equipped with a hot water outlet, and the hot water inlet 212 and the hot water outlet can be connected by a pipeline.

[0059] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The switching valve 300 includes an operating part 310 and a switching valve core 320. The switching valve core 320 is located inside the cold water pipe 100. The operating part 310 is adapted to drive the switching valve core 320 to switch between a water injection position and a constant temperature position. In the water injection position, the third cold water inlet 211 and the second cold water outlet 130 are disconnected. In the constant temperature position, the third cold water inlet 211 and the first cold water inlet 110 are connected through the second cold water outlet 130.

[0060] It should be noted that in some examples of the present invention, the switching valve core 320 is movably inserted into the cold water pipe 100, which can be understood as the switching valve core 320 moving in ways such as rotation and sliding.

[0061] With the switching valve 300 installed, the user operates the operating unit 310 to move the switching valve core 320 to switch its working position. During water filling, the switching valve core 320 moves to the water filling position, disconnecting the third cold water inlet 211 and the second cold water outlet 130, thereby cutting off the pipeline to the thermostatic valve 220 and physically blocking the path of cold water directly flowing to the thermostatic valve 220. After the water tank of the water heater is full, the user can use the operating unit 310 to move the switching valve core 320 to the thermostatic position. At this time, the third cold water inlet 211 and the first cold water inlet 110 are connected through the second cold water outlet 130. Cold water enters the thermostatic valve 220 through the third cold water inlet 211, and hot water enters the thermostatic valve 220 through the hot water inlet 212. After mixing to the preset temperature, the mixture is discharged from the mixed water outlet 213, meeting normal use requirements. The design of the switching valve 300 structure achieves mechanical isolation and water path reconstruction, which helps to avoid user misjudgment and thus avoids the risk of dry burning when the user first powers on the device. It is also relatively convenient to operate.

[0062] Understandably, referring to Figure 3 In some examples of the present invention, the switching valve core 320 is rotatably located inside the cold water pipe 100. By moving the operating part 310 to drive the switching valve core 320 to rotate, the switching between the water injection position and the constant temperature position is realized. The mechanical operation of rotating the switching valve core 320 realizes the rapid switching between the water injection mode and the constant temperature mode, taking into account both efficiency and comfort.

[0063] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some examples of the present invention, the operation unit 310 includes a knob 311, and the knob 311 has markings 3111 corresponding to the water filling position and the constant temperature position on opposite sides.

[0064] The above settings significantly improve the intuitiveness and accuracy of user operation. Visual guidance (such as text, icons, or color differentiation) allows users to quickly identify the current mode and avoid accidental operation; at the same time, the symmetrically distributed markings 3111 combined with the physical positioning of the knob 311 (such as the "click" feedback when rotated to the correct position) ensure accurate and reliable mode switching.

[0065] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some examples of this invention, the angle difference between the knobs 311 corresponding to the water injection position and the constant temperature position is 180°. The markings 3111 for the water injection position and the constant temperature position can be parallel and symmetrically distributed, and can be switched by rotating 180 degrees. Of course, in other examples, the markings 3111 for the water injection position and the constant temperature position can also be set at a 30-degree angle, etc., and this is not limited here.

[0066] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some examples, the switching valve core 320 includes a pipe section 321 adapted to the inner wall of the cold water pipe 100. The pipe section 321 has a pair of through holes 3211 that penetrate the opposite sidewalls of the pipe section 321. The through holes 3211 are connected to the first cold water outlet 120. The sidewall of the pipe section 321 also has a water outlet 3212. In the constant temperature position, the first cold water inlet 110, the water outlet 3212, the second cold water outlet 130 and the third cold water inlet 211 are connected in sequence.

[0067] This can be understood as referring to Figure 2 The pipe section 321 of the switching valve core 320 is rotatably installed on the inner wall of the cold water pipe 100. In the water filling position, the through hole 3211 is connected to the first cold water outlet 120. At this time, the water outlet 3212 and the second cold water outlet 130 are staggered and the second cold water outlet 130 is closed. At this time, only the inner tank is filled with water. After the inner tank of the water heater is full, the user can drive the switching valve core 320 to the constant temperature position through the operating part 310. The first cold water inlet 110, the water outlet 3212, the second cold water outlet 130 and the third cold water inlet 211 are connected in sequence to realize the mixing of hot water and cold water, which flows out through the mixed water outlet 213.

[0068] When the pipe section 321 is in a constant temperature position, the outlet hole 3212 becomes a key channel, allowing cold water to enter from the first cold water inlet 110 and flow sequentially through the outlet hole 3212 and the second cold water outlet 130, finally flowing to the target position, the third cold water inlet 211, to ensure constant temperature water flow. The design structure is clear and effectively guides the cold water to flow along the predetermined path, ensuring that the cold water is delivered to the expected destination in constant temperature mode.

[0069] A pair of through holes 3211 on pipe section 321 provides the main and direct flow path for cold water. They are connected to the first cold water outlet 120, which means that after the cold water enters the switching valve core 320 from the first cold water inlet 110, it will flow directly to the first cold water outlet 120 through the pair of through holes 3211. In addition, it helps the water flow symmetrically through the switching valve core 320, reduces uneven wear, and ensures smooth operation.

[0070] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some examples of the present invention, the angle between the through hole 3211 and the outlet hole 3212 along the outer periphery of the pipe segment 321 is 90 degrees. Specifically, the axis of the outlet hole 3212 is perpendicular to the axis of the pair of through holes 3211. The pair of through holes 3211 and the outlet hole 3212 help to ensure that, regardless of whether it is in a water injection state or a constant temperature state, a portion of the cold water will always enter the inner tank through the first cold water outlet 120, which is beneficial to realize the multi-path distribution of the flow.

[0071] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some examples of the present invention, the outlet hole 3212 is located closer to the first cold water inlet 110 than the through hole 3211. That is, the outlet hole 3212 is located between the through hole 3211 and the first cold water inlet 110. Cold water flows from the first cold water inlet 110 into the inner wall of the cold water pipe 100. When the switching valve 300 is in the constant temperature position, part of the cold water enters the third cold water inlet 211 of the constant temperature valve 220 through the outlet hole 3212 and the second cold water outlet 130. Another part of the cold water enters the inner tank through the through hole 3211 along the first cold water outlet 120. This can effectively balance the pressure fluctuations in the cold water pipe 100. At the same time, since the two water flows are in the same direction and are both far away from the location of the first cold water inlet 110, the setting of pipe interfaces is reduced and the service life of the system is extended.

[0072] Because the water outlet 3212 is closer to the first cold water inlet 110, the cold water entering the thermostatic valve 220 is "raw cold water" that has not been heated by the inner tank (its temperature is the same as that of the first cold water inlet 110). This avoids the "warm water backflow" problem that may occur in traditional designs where cold water flows into the inner tank first and is then heated. By mixing this portion of low-temperature cold water with hot water (or other heat sources), the thermostatic valve 220 can make precise adjustments based on a more accurate initial temperature, reducing temperature control errors caused by water temperature fluctuations or secondary heating, and improving the accuracy of achieving the target temperature.

[0073] In addition, the shorter path design of the water outlet 3212, which is closer to the first cold water inlet 110, reduces the time it takes for cold water to reach the thermostatic valve 220 (compared to the longer path through the cold water pipe 100 to the through hole 3211). When the system detects a water temperature deviation that requires adjustment, the thermostatic valve 220 can obtain cold water more quickly and initiate mixing regulation, reducing the delay of "waiting for cold water to arrive" and improving the temperature control response speed (such as shortening the time from "sensing temperature" to "outputting compliant water").

[0074] Of course, in other examples, the through hole 3211 can also be located between the water outlet 3212 and the first cold water inlet 110, that is, the through hole 3211 is closer to the first cold water inlet 110 than the water outlet 3212.

[0075] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the inner wall of the cold water pipe 100 and the corresponding pipe segment 321 form a fitting structure. When the water outlet 3212 and the second cold water outlet 130 are misaligned, cold water is unlikely to flow into the second cold water outlet 130 through the tiny gap between the inner wall of the cold water pipe 100 and the pipe segment 321. It is worth noting that this state is not an absolute seal, but a relative barrier formed based on factors such as gap size and fluid pressure. The existence of the gap theoretically still allows a very small amount of fluid to seep in, but its flow rate is extremely low and its velocity is extremely slow. In practical applications, it can be regarded as a basically blocked state.

[0076] Of course, in some other examples, a seal can also be provided at the water outlet 3212 of the pipe section 321. With the seal, when the water outlet 3212 and the second cold water outlet 130 are misaligned, the seal will block the connection between the water outlet 3212 and the second cold water outlet 130.

[0077] Understandably, referring to Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some examples of the present invention, the switching valve 300 further includes a sealing section 330 located between the operating part 310 and the pipe section 321, and an elastic sealing ring 340 is provided between the sealing section 330 and the inner wall of the cold water pipe 100.

[0078] The aforementioned switching valve 300 incorporates a sealing section 330 between the operating section 310 and the pipe section 321, and an elastic sealing ring 340 is installed at the contact interface between the sealing section 330 and the inner wall of the cold water pipe 100. This structural design effectively bridges the minute gaps between the sealing section 330 and the inner wall of the cold water pipe 100 through the radial compression deformation characteristics of the elastic sealing ring 340. When gaps occur during valve assembly or operation due to factors such as tolerance accumulation or slight pipe deformation, the elastic sealing ring 340 can adapt by undergoing high resilience, tightly fitting the contact surface and forming a multi-dimensional, seamless sealing barrier. Compared to traditional rigid sealing structures, its advantages lie not only in its ability to statically prevent cold water leakage but also in its ability to withstand dynamic conditions such as vibration and impact during operation of the operating section 310 of the switching valve 300 and system pressure fluctuations, continuously maintaining a reliable sealing state. This design significantly reduces the risk of cold water leakage, avoiding unnecessary water waste and preventing problems such as excessive moisture in the pipeline and corrosion of components caused by leakage. It effectively improves the overall sealing reliability and long-term operational stability of the switching valve 300.

[0079] It should be noted that the aforementioned elastic sealing ring 340 can be of pure rubber type, metal and rubber composite type, etc. The elastic sealing ring 340 can be an O-ring, lip seal, etc.

[0080] It should also be noted that the pipe section 321 of the operating unit 310 and the switching valve core 320 is an integrally formed structure, for example, formed in one step through injection molding, casting or compression molding. The integrally formed structure of the pipe section 321 of the operating unit 310 and the switching valve core 320 eliminates the assembly interface, which significantly improves the overall structural strength and fatigue resistance reliability. Precision molding of the mold ensures the accuracy of the mating surface, effectively optimizes the sealing performance and reduces the risk of leakage. At the same time, it simplifies the production process, reduces assembly costs, and supports the functional integration of the operating unit 310 and the switching valve core 320 (such as limit design), enhancing operational stability and user experience.

[0081] Of course, in other examples, the aforementioned operating part 310 and the pipe section 321 of the switching valve core 320 are separate structures, meaning they are manufactured independently and then assembled, for example, through threaded connections or snap-fit ​​connections. The separate structure design improves design flexibility and maintenance convenience, allowing for individual component replacement.

[0082] Reference Figure 1 In some examples of the present invention, the pipe segment 321 of the switching valve core 320 is provided with an anti-detachment groove, and the cold water pipe 100 is provided with an anti-detachment clip and a fixing hook. The anti-detachment clip is detachably inserted into the inside of the cold water pipe 100 and is engaged with the anti-detachment groove to restrict the axial movement of the switching valve core 320 away from the cold water pipe 100. The fixing hook is located outside the cold water pipe 100 and is engaged with the side wall of the positioning anti-detachment clip to fix the anti-detachment clip. If disassembly is required, the anti-detachment clip can be disengaged from the fixing hook and pulled out of the cold water pipe 100, and the switching valve core 320 can be moved away. The structure is simple and the operation is convenient.

[0083] Understandably, referring to Figure 1 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some examples of the present invention, the thermostatic valve 220 includes a bias spring 221, a temperature regulating component 222, a valve housing 223, a valve core body 224, and a flow guide sleeve 225.

[0084] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some examples of the present invention, the bias spring 221 is located inside the outer tube 210, the temperature regulating component 222 is at least partially connected to the outer tube 210, and the temperature regulating component 222 is used to adjust the compression of the bias spring 221 to adjust the outlet water temperature of the thermostat assembly 200.

[0085] When the user operates the external temperature control component 222, it changes the compression of the bias spring 221 in the outer tube 210, thereby adjusting the preload of the bias spring 221. The increase or decrease of the preload of the bias spring 221 will act on the thermostatic component 200, causing changes in the internal components of the thermostatic component 200, thereby achieving water temperature regulation, which means achieving precise control of the hot and cold water ratio of the thermostatic component 200.

[0086] It should be noted that, in this embodiment of the invention, the temperature regulating component 222 is at least partially externally connected to the outer tube 210 via a rotational mechanism. The rotation is achieved through threaded transmission. The outer wall of the temperature regulating component 222 is threaded, and the inner wall of the outer tube 210 is machined with a matching thread. The user rotates the temperature regulating component 222 axially along the outer tube 210 (clockwise / counterclockwise), controlling the displacement through the thread pitch to directly compress or release the bias spring 221. For example, when the temperature regulating component 222 is screwed into the outer tube 210, the compression of the spring increases; when it is screwed out, the spring rebounds, reducing the compression, thus meeting the requirements of ease of operation and structural sealing. It should also be noted that, in some examples, the inner wall of the temperature regulating component 222 may also be threaded, and the outer wall of the outer tube 210 may be machined with a matching thread.

[0087] Of course, in some other examples, the temperature regulating component 222 is a slider or lever, and the outer tube 210 has an elongated guide groove (or through hole) on its surface. The user pushes or pulls the slider along the axial direction of the outer tube 210. The slider is connected to the internal bias spring 221 through the guide groove, which compresses or releases the bias spring 221. For example, when the slider is pulled outward, the bias spring 221 is compressed; when it is pushed back inward, the bias spring 221 is relaxed, making the operation intuitive. Alternatively, the temperature regulating component 222 can also use a rotary lever transmission or a wrench transmission to cooperate with the outer tube 210 to drive the bias spring 221. Regardless of the method, the core is to convert the user's operating force into a change in the compression of the bias spring 221 through the mechanical action of the external component (rotation, pushing, pulling, pressing, etc.), ultimately achieving control of the outlet water temperature of the thermostatic component 200.

[0088] Specifically, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 6 In some examples of the present invention, the temperature regulating component 222 and the switching valve 300 are located on the same side of the constant temperature water circuit device.

[0089] The above design, with centralized layout on the same side, can reduce the overall volume, avoid the redundancy of pipelines caused by separate placement on both sides (such as hot and cold water pipes and signal lines needing to be connected across sides), reduce the complexity of water / electrical circuits, improve the utilization rate of internal space of the device, reduce space redundancy, and improve compactness.

[0090] The simplified parting line design reduces mold complexity during mold opening; assemblers can complete the assembly of the temperature regulating component 222 and the switching valve 300 on the same side without flipping the device or operating across multiple sides, reducing assembly steps and time. Assembly is more convenient and calibration is more efficient; user-friendly functions are intuitive and easier to use, comprehensively improving the space utilization and user experience of the device, and enhancing calibration consistency.

[0091] Of course, in some other examples, the temperature regulating component 222 and the switching valve 300 may also be located on different sides of the thermostatic water circuit device.

[0092] Understandably, referring to Figure 1 and Figure 6 In some examples of the present invention, the first cold water outlet 120 and the hot water inlet 212 are located on the same side of the constant temperature water circuit device, and the first cold water inlet 110 and the mixed water outlet 213 are located on the same side of the constant temperature water circuit device.

[0093] The hot water end of the inner tank is connected to the hot water inlet 212, and the third cold water inlet 211 of the inner tank is connected to the first cold water outlet 120. Since the first cold water outlet 120 and the hot water inlet 212 are located on the same side and are close to the inner tank, the structure shortens the water circuit length, reduces pipe crossing redundancy, and improves compactness. During assembly, the operation is concentrated on the same side, which facilitates quick connection of water pipes / components and improves assembly efficiency. During operation, the user can inspect or use more easily accessible interfaces, which improves the convenience of use.

[0094] The external water source is connected to the first cold water inlet 110, and the mixed water outlet 213 is connected to the external water-using components (such as shower heads). The first cold water inlet 110 and the mixed water outlet 213 are located on the same side, which shortens the water path, reduces pipe crossing redundancy, and improves internal compactness. During assembly, the water pipe connections are centralized, which facilitates quick installation and fixation and reduces assembly difficulty. During operation, users only need to connect the water source or water-using components (such as shower heads) on the same side, reducing movement steps and making it more convenient to use.

[0095] Specifically, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 6 In some examples of the present invention, the first cold water outlet 120 and the hot water inlet 212 are located on the upper side of the constant temperature water circuit device, and the first cold water inlet 110 and the mixed water outlet 213 are located on the lower side of the constant temperature water circuit device.

[0096] The layout of the first cold water outlet 120 and hot water inlet 212 on the upper side, and the partition design of the first cold water inlet 110 and mixed water outlet 213 on the lower side, results in an orderly water channel layout, reduced cross redundancy, and improved internal compactness. During mold opening, since the interfaces are concentrated on the upper and lower sides, a symmetrical parting surface can be designed, simplifying the mold structure and reducing manufacturing difficulty. During assembly, the upper and lower areas are operated separately, with clear and easy-to-execute steps, improving assembly efficiency. During operation, the user's connection to the water source (lower side) and use of mixed water (lower side), and connection to hot water (upper side) and auxiliary interface (upper side) are clearly partitioned, which is intuitive and reduces the risk of misconnection.

[0097] More specifically, refer to Figure 2In some examples of the present invention, the cold water pipe 100 includes a first pipe section, a second pipe section, and a third pipe section that are integrally formed and connected. The axis of the first pipe section is perpendicular to the axis of the second pipe section and the axis of the third pipe section, respectively. The first pipe section has a second cold water outlet 130, the first cold water inlet 110 is the lower port of the second pipe section, and the first cold water outlet 120 is the upper port of the third pipe section. The first pipe section is centrally located, and the second and third pipe sections extend downward and upward, respectively (when arranged vertically), so that the space utilization in the overall height direction of the cold water pipe 100 is more efficient and the redundant dimensions in the vertical direction of the device are reduced.

[0098] Of course, in other examples, the angle between the axes of the first pipe section and the second and third pipe sections can also be 30 degrees, 120 degrees, or even coaxial. It can be understood that the pipe section 321 of the switching valve core 320 is rotatably inserted into the first pipe section, and the length of the pipe section 321 inside the first pipe section is less than the length of the first pipe section, so as to avoid the connection position between the second pipe section and the first pipe section.

[0099] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the first pipe section is located in the middle of the vertical length of the cold water pipe 100, avoiding excessive detours in the water flow path, shortening the overall length of the cold water pipe 100, simplifying the internal flow channel structure, and reducing water resistance and pressure loss. The centrally located first pipe section has high symmetry, ensuring uniform force on the mold in all directions during demolding, avoiding mold jamming problems caused by complex local structures, and improving production efficiency. Moreover, the central location of the first pipe section facilitates quick positioning of the switching valve 300 during installation, eliminating the need for additional adjustments to the vertical alignment accuracy and simplifying the assembly process. The pipe section 321 of the switching valve core 320 is inserted into the first pipe section, and its central position ensures balanced operating force arm of the switching valve core 320, making rotation or insertion / removal easier.

[0100] It should also be noted that, referring to Figure 1 The first pipe section has a second cold water outlet 130 with a connecting pipe. The connecting pipe is inserted into the third cold water inlet 211 of the outer pipe 210. Specifically, the connecting pipe has a positioning groove, and the cold water pipe 100 has a positioning strip and a positioning hook. The positioning strip is detachably inserted into the outer pipe 210 and engaged in the positioning groove to restrict the axial movement of the connecting pipe from detaching from the outer pipe 210. The positioning hook is located outside the outer pipe 210 and engages with the side wall of the positioning strip to fix the positioning strip. If disassembly is required, the positioning strip can be disengaged from the positioning hook and pulled out of the outer pipe 210, and the connecting pipe can be removed. The structure is simple and the operation is convenient.

[0101] Understandably, referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7In some examples of the present invention, the valve housing 223 is fixed to the outer pipe 210; the valve core body 224 can slide relative to the valve housing 223, and a cold water flow path A and a hot water flow path B are formed between the valve core body 224 and the valve housing 223. The relative movement between the sliding valve core body 224 and the valve housing 223 directly separates the cold water flow path A and the hot water flow path B, eliminating the need for additional independent pipes or complex joints, simplifying the water circuit structure, achieving linear regulation of water flow, and improving the accuracy of temperature control.

[0102] Specifically, refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 In this embodiment, the bias spring 221 abuts against the valve core body 224 to limit the position of the valve core body 224 in the initial state.

[0103] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some examples of the present invention, the guide sleeve 225 is installed inside the valve housing 223, a guide cavity 226 is formed between the guide sleeve 225 and the valve core body 224, and a water outlet cavity 2251 is formed between the guide sleeve 225 and the valve housing 223. The water outlet cavity 2251 and the mixed water outlet 213 are connected in sequence. The guide cavity 226 is used to mix the hot water flow path B and the cold water flow path A upstream of the water outlet cavity 2251.

[0104] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some examples of the present invention, the thermal element 227 is installed in the water outlet chamber 2251 and is adapted to drive the guide sleeve 225 and the valve core body 224 to move when a change in water temperature in the water outlet chamber 2251 is sensed, so as to change the flow rate of cold water flow path A and the flow rate of hot water flow path B.

[0105] The thermal element 227 is installed in the outlet chamber 2251 of the flow guide sleeve 225. It can sense changes in the outlet water temperature in real time and convert them into mechanical driving force. By driving the flow guide sleeve 225 to work in conjunction with the valve core body 224, it can dynamically adjust the flow ratio of cold water flow path A and hot water flow path B, thereby quickly responding to water temperature fluctuations, automatically maintaining the stability of the outlet water temperature, avoiding overcooling or overheating, and realizing intelligent constant temperature control.

[0106] The thermostatic valve 220 has a flow guide sleeve 225 inside its valve housing 223, which cooperates with the thermal element 227. This allows cold water and hot water to mix upstream of the flow guide sleeve 225 before flowing into the outlet chamber 2251. The flow guide sleeve 225, as a single component, guides hot and cold water from the corresponding hot water flow path B and cold water flow path A, forcing them to contact each other. This avoids the need for additional components, reducing system complexity and assembly costs. Upstream mixing advances the contact time between hot and cold water, preventing outlet water temperature fluctuations caused by uneven mixing, allowing the thermal element 227 to detect the correct mixed water temperature. Furthermore, compared to complex flow channels with multiple components, the single-component flow channel design of this invention reduces flow resistance; simultaneously, it improves structural compactness and makes it easier to adapt to installation requirements in small spaces.

[0107] It should be noted that, in this embodiment of the invention, the thermistor 227 is a shape memory alloy spring. Since the shape memory alloy spring is a metal temperature-sensing component, it senses temperature rapidly and executes actions quickly. Of course, in some examples, the thermistor 227 can be other types, which are not limited here.

[0108] Understandably, referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some examples of the present invention, the flow guide sleeve 225 is formed with a flow guide surface 2252, the inner wall of the valve core body 224 is formed with a guide slope 2241 corresponding to the flow guide sleeve 225, and the flow guide cavity 226 is formed between the guide slope 2241 and the flow guide surface 2252 of the flow guide sleeve 225.

[0109] The guide slope 2241 on the inner wall of the valve core body 224 can not only guide the guide sleeve 225 to be accurately positioned or move smoothly, but also the guide cavity 226 formed by the guide surface 2252 of the guide sleeve 225 optimizes the liquid flow path, so as to achieve full flushing and mixing of the liquids flowing into the cold water flow path A and the hot water flow path B, reduce flow resistance and improve the stability of flow path control, thereby enhancing the accuracy and response efficiency of the valve core body 224 in regulating the flow of cold and hot water.

[0110] It should be understood that, in this embodiment, based on the position of the outlet end of the third cold water inlet 211 corresponding to the guide cavity 226, it can be understood that the guide cavity 226 corresponds to and connects to the cold water flow path A. Through the coordinated movement of the valve core body 224 and the guide sleeve 225, the flow rate of the cold water flow path A is adjusted. This can be understood as adjusting the gap, cross-sectional area, etc., between the valve shell 223 and the valve core body 224 at the location corresponding to the cold water flow path A. Of course, in some examples, the guide cavity 226 may also correspond to the position of the hot water inlet 212, and it can also be understood that the guide cavity 226 connects to the hot water flow path B; this is not limited here.

[0111] Understandably, referring to Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 10 In some examples of the present invention, a mixing chamber 2253 is also formed inside the guide sleeve 225, and the mixing chamber 2253 is located upstream of the outlet chamber 2251.

[0112] This can be understood as follows: the mixing chamber 2253 is a cavity structure formed by separating the thermistor 227 from a section of the guide sleeve 225. The guide sleeve 225 and the guide chamber 226 are connected. The guide chamber 226 guides the confluence of cold water flow path A and hot water flow path B to the mixing chamber 2253, ensuring that the cold and hot water are fully mixed, so as to prevent the thermistor 227 from contacting the unmixed water prematurely, which could cause malfunction and water temperature fluctuations.

[0113] Specifically, refer to Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 10 In this embodiment, the mixing cavity 2253 is a straight, hollow structure with openings at both ends and a circular cross-section, which facilitates mold making. Of course, in some examples, the mixing cavity 2253 can be a curved structure, and the inner wall of the mixing cavity 2253 can also be provided with a flow-slowing arc surface, a flow-disrupting boss, or other structures.

[0114] Specifically, in this embodiment, the thermal element 227 is fixed to the outlet end of the mixing chamber 2253. The flow rate at the outlet end of the mixing chamber 2253 is relatively stable, and the thermal element 227 can quickly capture water temperature fluctuations and convert them into mechanical driving force, driving the valve core body 224 to adjust the hot and cold water flow ratio in a timely manner, forming a closed-loop control of "precise detection - rapid response - dynamic balance", which significantly improves the accuracy and reliability of constant temperature regulation and effectively avoids the problem of sudden changes in outlet water temperature.

[0115] Understandably, referring to Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 10 In some examples of the present invention, the included angle between the guide surface 2252 and the central axis O of the guide sleeve 225 is a, and the included angle between the guide slope 2241 and the central axis O of the guide sleeve 225 is b, where included angle a > included angle b.

[0116] With the above configuration, a reasonable gradient difference exists between the angle α formed by the guide surface 2252 and the central axis O of the guide sleeve 225, and the angle b formed by the guide slope 2241 and the central axis O of the guide sleeve 225. This allows an effective counter-mixing mechanism to be established between the cold and hot water before they enter the mixing chamber 2253. Despite the significant temperature difference between the two liquids, the difference in flow direction and velocity gradient creates strong shear disturbance in the convergence area, increasing the contact area and mass transfer efficiency of the two-phase fluids. This pre-set structured counter-mixing enables the hot and cold water to achieve preliminary temperature homogenization through momentum exchange before entering the mixing chamber 2253, laying a uniform initial state for subsequent deep mixing and effectively improving the overall heat exchange efficiency and mixing uniformity. This forms a multi-level synergistic mechanism of "preliminary mixing in the guide chamber 226 and deep homogenization in the mixing chamber 2253," effectively reducing local temperature gradients and ensuring a more uniform temperature distribution of the water entering the outlet chamber 2251, providing a more stable fluid basis for subsequent constant temperature control.

[0117] Understandably, referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some examples of the present invention, a hot water inlet chamber 2242 and a cold water inlet chamber 2243 are formed inside the valve core body 224. The hot water inlet chamber 2242 is connected to the hot water flow path B, and the cold water inlet chamber 2243 is connected to the cold water flow path A. That is, the hot water inlet chamber 2242 is connected to the hot water inlet 212 through the hot water flow path B, and the cold water inlet chamber 2243 is connected to the third cold water inlet 211 through the cold water flow path A.

[0118] In some examples, the cold water inlet chamber 2243 is provided with a guide ramp 2241. It can be understood that the cold water is guided into the mixing chamber 2253 along the guide ramp 2241 and the guide surface 2252 forming the guide cavity 226.

[0119] The valve core body 224 adopts a split-chamber structure design, with separate hot water inlet chamber 2242 and cold water inlet chamber 2243. These are connected to the hot water flow path B and cold water flow path A respectively through independent flow channel systems, forming precise hot and cold medium input channels. The inner wall of the cold water inlet chamber 2243 (selected according to system flow resistance matching requirements) is specially equipped with a guide slope 2241, extending along the cavity axis at a specific angle and naturally transitioning with the cavity wall. Through the fluid guiding effect of the guide slope 2241, the flow state of the hot and cold water before entering the mixing chamber 2253 is effectively optimized.

[0120] Of course, in some other examples, the hot water inlet cavity 2242 is provided with a guide ramp 2241, which is not limited here.

[0121] Specifically, refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7In this embodiment, a connecting pipe 2244 is formed inside the valve core body 224 to connect the hot water inlet chamber 2242 and the cold water inlet chamber 2243. The connecting pipe 2244 has a flared section 22441 facing the flow guide surface 2252. The included angle between the flared section 22441 and the central axis O of the flow guide sleeve 225 is c, and the included angle a > the included angle c.

[0122] The angle α between the guide surface 2252 and the central axis O of the guide sleeve 225 guides cold water to enter the connecting pipe 2244 with a larger radial component, while hot water flows along the gentle straight section of the connecting pipe 2244 to the flared section 22441. Through the angle c between the flared section 22441 and the central axis O of the guide sleeve 225, the cold and hot water are fully intertwined in the axial direction, enhancing the hybrid power.

[0123] It is understandable that in some examples, the included angles b and c can be equal, or included angle b can be less than included angle c, or included angle c can be less than included angle b; this is not a limitation here.

[0124] Specifically, in this embodiment, the edge of the downstream end of the flared section 22441 can cover the edge of the downstream end of the guide surface 2252, thereby ensuring that water can flow from the connecting pipe 2244 to the guide surface 2252, and the water between the connecting pipe 2244 and the guide surface 2252 can be fully mixed.

[0125] Understandably, referring to Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 In some examples of the present invention, the flow guide sleeve 225 includes a mounting part 2254, a flow guide platform 2255, and a flow guide plate 2256. The interior of the mounting part 2254 forms a water outlet cavity 2251. The flow guide platform 2255 is connected to the mounting part 2254 and is located on the side of the mounting part 2254 facing the valve core body 224. A flow guide surface 2252 is formed on the outer periphery of the flow guide platform 2255. The flow guide plate 2256 is distributed on the outer periphery of the flow guide platform 2255. The end of the flow guide plate 2256 abuts against the valve core body 224, and the flow guide plate 2256 is used to divide the flow guide cavity 226 into multiple flow guide channels 2257.

[0126] The guide vanes 2256 divide the guide cavity 226 into multiple independent guide channels 2257. By controlling the number, angle, and spacing of the guide vanes 2256 (such as symmetrical or gradient distribution), the flow area of ​​each channel can be precisely controlled. In this embodiment, for example, cold water is guided through multiple guide channels 2257 to enter the valve core body 224 for mixing, avoiding local turbulence or stratification caused by uneven flow velocity in a single channel. This significantly improves the contact area and mixing uniformity of hot and cold water, allowing the water flow to be evenly distributed circumferentially and eliminating temperature deviations caused by "deviation".

[0127] The guide surface 2252 on the outer periphery of the guide platform 2255 and the end of the guide plate 2256 that abuts the valve core body 224 form a "stepped" guide structure. The guide plate 2256 serves as a flow diversion boundary, limiting the radial diffusion range of the water flow. The guide surface 2252 further constricts the water flow after it has been diverted by the guide plate 2256 and adjusts the flow direction, such as changing it from radial to axial. This allows the water flow to complete the "diversion-rectification" transition before entering the outlet chamber 2251, avoiding pressure fluctuations caused by sudden changes in the flow channel.

[0128] The end of the guide vane 2256 directly abuts against the valve core body 224, forming a "mechanical limiting" structure. This not only fixes the position of the guide vane 2256 (preventing channel size changes due to water flow impact), but also enhances sealing performance (reducing the risk of leakage) through close contact with the valve core body 224. In addition, the mounting part 2254, as a "rigid support body," provides a stable mounting reference for the guide platform 2255 and the guide vane 2256, avoiding structural deformation caused by external vibration or pressure fluctuations, and ensuring the long-term dimensional accuracy and performance consistency of the guide channel 2257.

[0129] Reference Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 In some examples of the present invention, the guide vane 2256 protrudes from the end face of the guide platform 2255 away from the mounting portion 2254. The protrusion of the guide vane 2256 from the end face of the guide platform 2255 away from the mounting portion 2254 can expand the guide surface 2252 to enhance multi-directional flow distribution, regulate flow velocity distribution to suppress turbulence, enhance structural limiting and sealing, optimize the water outlet direction to promote uniform mixing, and ultimately improve temperature control accuracy and operational stability.

[0130] It should be noted that, referring to Figure 6 and Figure 10 In this embodiment, a slot 22551 is formed at one end of the guide platform 2255 facing the mounting part 2254, and the end of the shape memory alloy spring is fixed to the slot 22551. It can be understood that in this embodiment, the slot 22551 is arranged around the mixing cavity 2253, and the shape memory alloy spring is inserted into the slot 22551 and sleeved on the mixing cavity 2253.

[0131] The slot 22551 provides a clear installation positioning point for the shape memory alloy spring (such as matching the shape of the slot body with the end of the shape memory alloy spring), preventing the shape memory alloy spring from radially shifting, twisting or falling off due to water flow impact or vibration, ensuring that the shape memory alloy spring always expands and contracts along the design direction (such as axial direction), ensuring that its elastic force is stably transmitted to the guide sleeve 225 and the valve core body 224, while improving assembly consistency and structural reliability, and ultimately enhancing the long-term performance of the device.

[0132] It can be understood that the aforementioned thermal element 227, i.e. the memory alloy spring, is detachably installed on the flow guide sleeve 225. Of course, in some examples, the aforementioned thermal element 227, i.e. the memory alloy spring, can also be embedded in an integral molded manner and fixedly engaged with the flow guide sleeve 225.

[0133] Understandably, referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some examples of the present invention, the bias spring 221 has a first end and a second end, the thermostatic valve 220 further includes a mounting base 228 for fixing the first end of the bias spring 221, the mounting base 228 and the valve housing 223 are threadedly connected, and the second end of the bias spring 221 is connected to the valve core body 224.

[0134] By rotating the mounting base 228, its relative position to the valve housing 223 can be precisely adjusted, thereby controlling the initial compression or tension of the bias spring 221 and ensuring that the valve core body 224 obtains an accurate preload or displacement reference in the initial state, so as to control the outlet water temperature.

[0135] This design reduces the sensitivity to positional errors during installation. Even if there are slight installation deviations (such as machining tolerances or assembly gaps in the valve body 223), they can be compensated by fine-tuning the mounting base 228 to achieve precise positioning of the valve core body 224 at its initial position, thus avoiding adjustment failures or temperature deviations caused by inaccurate positioning.

[0136] Specifically, refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 In this embodiment, the outer wall of the mounting base 228 is threaded, and the inner wall of the valve housing 223 is machined with matching threads. The user rotates the mounting base 228 to move it axially along the valve housing 223 (clockwise / counterclockwise), and controls the displacement by the thread pitch, directly compressing or releasing the bias spring 221.

[0137] It should be noted that, referring to Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 In some examples of this invention, the temperature regulating component 222 serves as the coarse adjustment unit in the system, while the mounting base 228 performs the fine adjustment function. Specifically, when the temperature regulating component 222 is rotated, its mechanical movement synchronously drives the partial components of the valve housing 223, the bias spring 221, and the mounting base 228 through the transmission structure; while when the mounting base 228 is rotated alone, its movement only acts on the bias spring 221, thereby achieving a more precise adjustment operation.

[0138] More specifically, in some examples, the aforementioned temperature regulating component 222 is a sleeve, which is fitted over a portion of the valve housing 223 and pushed against it. A portion of the valve housing 223 is fitted over the mounting base 228. The temperature regulating component 222 adopts a sleeve structure design, serving as the core regulating unit, fitted over a specific functional section (such as the regulating section) of the valve housing 223. The two are engaged through a pushing action to transmit motion. Furthermore, this functional section of the valve housing 223 is fitted over the mounting base 228 in a sleeved manner, forming a hierarchical sleeved structure of "sleeve - valve housing 223 regulating section - mounting base 228".

[0139] Reference Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 In some examples of the present invention, the outer wall of the valve housing 223 is provided with at least three sealing grooves 2231, and a sealing ring 2232 is fixed in each sealing groove 2231. The sealing ring 2232 and the inner wall of the outer tube 210 are sealed to form a first annular cavity C and a second annular cavity D between adjacent sealing rings 2232. The first annular cavity C is used to connect the hot water inlet 212 and the hot water flow path B, and the second annular cavity D is used to connect the third cold water inlet 211 and the cold water flow path A.

[0140] The axial arrangement of the first annular cavity C and the second annular cavity D (forming a cavity between adjacent sealing rings 2232) allows hot and cold water to enter the valve core body 224 more evenly along its circumference. The chamber-based flow guiding mode avoids interference from multiple flow paths, ensuring that hot and cold water enter the mixing chamber 2253 stably in a preset ratio, significantly improving the control accuracy of the final outlet water temperature.

[0141] More specifically, refer to Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 In some examples of the present invention, the valve housing 223 includes a first housing 223a, a second housing 223b and a third housing 223c. The second housing 223b is located between the first housing 223a and the third housing 223c. The first housing 223a is fitted with a flow guide sleeve 225. The second housing 223b is fitted with a valve core body 224. The third housing 223c is fitted with a mounting base 228 and a bias spring 221.

[0142] Understandably, referring to Figure 9 and Figure 10In this example, the mounting portion 2254 of the flow guide sleeve 225 is provided with a plurality of annular protrusions 22541 on its outer periphery. The plurality of annular protrusions 22541 abut against the inner wall of the first housing 223a, reducing the friction between the flow guide sleeve 225 and the first housing 223a, increasing water resistance, and reducing the overflow of unmixed water. A first sealing ring 410 is provided between the second housing 223b and the valve core body 224 to further block the mixing of hot water flow path B and cold water flow path A on the outer periphery of the valve core body 224, thereby improving the sealing performance.

[0143] In this example, the valve housing 223, which is the first housing, is provided with multiple water outlet channels 223a1 at the water outlet cavity 2251 of the guide sleeve 225. The water outlet channels 223a1 connect the water outlet cavity 2251 and the mixed water outlet 213.

[0144] It should be noted that, referring to Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 In this example, the third housing 223c includes a third outer shell and a third inner shell partially located inside the third outer shell. The third outer shell and the third inner shell are connected by threads for easy disassembly and maintenance. The two are sealed by a second sealing ring 420 to prevent liquid leakage. The part of the third inner shell located outside the third outer shell is used for fitting and installation with the temperature regulating component 222.

[0145] It should also be noted that, referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7 In this embodiment, the third inner shell is fitted onto the mounting base 228 and connected by threads. The displacement is controlled by the thread pitch, directly compressing or releasing the bias spring 221. The mounting base 228 has two mounting grooves along its circumference, each containing a third sealing ring 430 to seal the mating gap between the third inner shell and the mounting base 228 bracket. The number of mounting grooves is not limited to two and can be determined according to actual sealing requirements. It should be understood that the mounting grooves are located between the threaded engagement of the third inner shell and the mounting base 228 and the limiting engagement of the bias spring 221 and the mounting base 228. The coordinated structure of thread pitch adjustment and precise positioning of the third sealing ring 430 achieves linear adjustment of the third inner shell displacement, multi-dimensional sealing protection, and dynamic vibration resistance, significantly improving the device's adjustment accuracy, sealing reliability, and long-term operational stability.

[0146] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A constant temperature water circuit device for a water heater, characterized in that, include: The cold water pipe has a first cold water inlet, a first cold water outlet and a second cold water outlet. The first cold water inlet is used to connect to a water source and the first cold water outlet is used to connect to the second cold water inlet of the inner tank of the water heater. The thermostatic component includes an outer tube and a thermostatic valve located inside the outer tube. The outer tube has a third cold water inlet, a hot water inlet, and a mixed water outlet. The hot water inlet is used to connect to the hot water outlet of the inner tank of the water heater. A switching valve includes an operating part and a switching valve core. The switching valve core is located inside the cold water pipe. The operating part is adapted to drive the switching valve core to switch between a water injection position and a constant temperature position. In the water injection position, the third cold water inlet and the second cold water outlet are disconnected. In the constant temperature position, the third cold water inlet and the first cold water inlet are connected through the second cold water outlet. The switching valve core includes a pipe section adapted to the inner wall of the cold water pipe. The pipe section has a pair of through holes that penetrate the opposite side walls of the pipe section. The through holes are connected to the first cold water outlet. The side wall of the pipe section also has a water outlet. At the constant temperature position, the first cold water inlet, the water outlet, the second cold water outlet, and the third cold water inlet are connected in sequence.

2. The constant temperature water circuit device for a water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The operating unit includes a knob, and the two opposite sides of the knob are respectively marked with the corresponding water injection position and the constant temperature position.

3. The constant temperature water circuit device for a water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The switching valve also includes a sealing section located between the operating part and the pipe section, and an elastic sealing ring is provided between the sealing section and the inner wall of the cold water pipe.

4. The constant temperature water circuit device for a water heater according to claim 2, characterized in that, Along the outer periphery of the pipe section, the angle between the through hole and the water outlet is 90 degrees, and the angle difference between the knob corresponding to the water injection position and the constant temperature position is 180°.

5. The constant temperature water circuit device for a water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thermostatic valve includes: A bias spring is located inside the outer tube; A temperature regulating component is at least partially connected to the outer tube, and the temperature regulating component is used to adjust the compression of the bias spring in order to regulate the outlet water temperature of the thermostatic component. The temperature regulating component and the switching valve are located on the same side of the constant temperature water circuit device.

6. The constant temperature water circuit device for a water heater according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first cold water outlet and the hot water inlet are located on the same side of the constant temperature water circuit device, and the first cold water inlet and the mixed water outlet are located on the same side of the constant temperature water circuit device.

7. The constant temperature water circuit device for a water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The thermostatic valve includes: Valve housing, used to be fixed to the outer tube; The valve core body can slide relative to the valve housing, and forms a cold water flow path and a hot water flow path between the valve core body and the valve housing; A flow guide sleeve is installed inside the valve housing. A flow guide cavity is formed between the flow guide sleeve and the valve core body. A water outlet cavity is formed between the flow guide sleeve and the valve housing. The water outlet cavity and the mixed water outlet are connected in sequence. The flow guide cavity is used to mix the hot water flow path and the cold water flow path upstream of the water outlet cavity. A thermistor, installed in the water outlet chamber, is adapted to move the guide sleeve and the valve core body when it senses a change in the water temperature in the water outlet chamber, so as to change the flow rate of the cold water flow path and the flow rate of the hot water flow path.

8. The constant temperature water circuit device for a water heater according to claim 7, characterized in that, The inner wall of the valve core body has a guide slope corresponding to the flow guide sleeve, and the flow guide cavity is formed between the guide slope and the flow guide sleeve.

9. The constant temperature water circuit device for a water heater according to claim 7, characterized in that, A mixing chamber is also formed inside the flow guide sleeve. The mixing chamber is located upstream of the water outlet chamber, and the thermal element is fixed to the water outlet end of the mixing chamber.

10. The constant temperature water circuit device for a water heater according to claim 7, characterized in that, The thermostatic valve also includes: A mounting base is used to fix the first end of the bias spring. The mounting base and the valve housing are threaded together. The second end of the bias spring is used to connect to the valve core body.

11. A water heater, characterized in that, include: The enclosure assembly, including the inner liner; The constant temperature water circuit device for a water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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