Waterway system of water heater

Abstract

The invention discloses a waterway system of a water heater, and relates to the technical field of water heaters. The waterway system of the water heater comprises the water heater; a water supply pipe; the thermostatic valve assembly comprises a valve body, a first connector, a second connector and a bypass pipe, the valve body is provided with a water mixing cavity, a first water inlet, a second water inlet and a mixed water outlet, the first water inlet, the second water inlet and the mixed water outlet are communicated with the water mixing cavity, and the first connector is arranged on the valve body and enables the water supply pipe, the first water inlet and the water inlet end of the water heater to be communicated; the second connector is arranged on the valve body and enables the water outlet end of the water heater to be communicated with the second water inlet. The bypass pipe is connected between the first connector and the second connector and connected with the water mixing cavity in parallel. According to the technical scheme, the overflowing area of the thermostatic valve assembly in the internal circulation mode can be increased, the water flow of an internal circulation loop is guaranteed, and the heat exchange efficiency of the water heater is improved.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of water heaters, in particular to a water circuit system of a water heater. BACKGROUND

[0002] With the improvement of living standards, water heaters with constant temperature water outlet function are more and more favored by people, and the water circuit system of the water heater can realize water outlet control through a constant temperature valve.

[0003] In the related art, the phase-change water heater has an internal circulation preheating function, but the constant temperature valve in the water circuit system is easy to cause the internal circulation water circuit to be blocked, resulting in insufficient internal circulation water flow and low heat exchange efficiency. SUMMARY

[0004] The main purpose of the present application is to provide a water circuit system of a water heater, which aims to increase the flow area of the internal circulation of the water heater, ensure the internal circulation water flow, and improve the heat exchange efficiency of the water heater.

[0005] To achieve the above purpose, the present application provides a water circuit system of a water heater, which comprises: a water heater; a water supply pipe; a constant temperature valve assembly, the constant temperature valve assembly comprising a valve body, a first connector, a second connector and a bypass pipe, the valve body being provided with a mixed water cavity, a first water inlet, a second water inlet and a mixed water outlet which communicate with the mixed water cavity, the first connector being arranged on the valve body and connecting the water supply pipe, the first water inlet and the water inlet end of the water heater; the second connector being arranged on the valve body and connecting the water outlet end of the water heater and the second water inlet; the bypass pipe being connected between the first connector and the second connector and being connected in parallel with the mixed water cavity.

[0006] In an embodiment of the present application, the bypass pipe is provided with a cold water interface connected with the water supply pipe.

[0007] In an embodiment of the present application, the bypass pipe comprises: a bypass pipe body arranged opposite to the valve body, the cold water interface being arranged at one end of the bypass pipe body; a first connecting pipe connecting the bypass pipe body and the first connector, the first connecting pipe being located on the side of the bypass pipe body away from the cold water interface; and a second connecting pipe connecting the bypass pipe body and the second connector, the second connecting pipe being located between the cold water interface and the first connecting pipe.

[0008] In an embodiment of the present application, the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe are located on the same side of the bypass pipe body in the radial direction.

[0009] In an embodiment of the present application, the first joint is defined as a first interface, and the second joint is defined as a second interface, wherein the central axis of the second interface is parallel to the central axis of the first interface.

[0010] In an embodiment of the present application, the thermostatic valve assembly further comprises a one-way valve, which is arranged on a flow channel between the cold water interface and the second water inlet, and is configured to unidirectionally guide the flow path of the second water inlet to the first joint.

[0011] In an embodiment of the present application, the one-way valve is arranged at the connection between the bypass pipe and the second joint.

[0012] In an embodiment of the present application, the flow cross-sectional area of the bypass pipe is defined as S0, the flow cross-sectional area of the first water inlet is defined as S1, and the flow cross-sectional area of the second water inlet is defined as S2, wherein S0>0.5S1 and S0>0.5S2 are satisfied.

[0013] In an embodiment of the present application, the bypass pipe is provided with a flow sensor.

[0014] In an embodiment of the present application, the waterway system comprises a water outlet pipe; the first joint is a three-way joint, and the three interfaces of the first joint are respectively connected to the first water inlet, the water inlet end of the water heater, and the bypass pipe; and / or, the second joint is a four-way joint, and the second joint is formed with a first flow channel and a second flow channel which are isolated from each other, the first flow channel is connected to the water outlet end of the water heater, the bypass pipe, and the second water inlet; and the second flow channel is connected to the mixed water outlet and the water outlet pipe.

[0015] In an embodiment of the present application, the water heater comprises: a heat exchanger, wherein the water inlet end of the heat exchanger is connected to the first joint, and the water outlet end of the heat exchanger is connected to the second joint; a water pump, which is arranged between the first joint and the water inlet end of the heat exchanger; and a heater, which is arranged between the water pump and the water inlet end of the heat exchanger.

[0016] In an embodiment of the present application, the heat exchanger is a phase-change heat exchanger.

[0017] In an embodiment of the present application, the water heater comprises a temperature riser, which is arranged between the water outlet end of the heat exchanger and the second joint.

[0018] In an embodiment of the present application, the heater and the temperature riser are both cast aluminum electric heaters.

[0019] In an embodiment of the present application, the waterway system comprises a support, the heat exchanger is installed on one side of the support, and the heater, the temperature riser, the water pump and the thermostatic valve assembly are installed on the other side of the support.

[0020] In an embodiment of the present application, the heater and the temperature riser are arranged side by side, the water pump and the thermostatic valve assembly are arranged on the same side of the heater and the temperature riser, and are respectively opposite to the heater and the temperature riser.

[0021] In an embodiment of the present application, the water pump is installed on the support through a shock pad.

[0022] In an embodiment of the present application, the water inlet of the heater is communicated with the water outlet of the water pump through a first bellows.

[0023] In an embodiment of the present application, the water outlet of the temperature riser is communicated with the second joint through a second bellows.

[0024] In an embodiment of the present application, a first detector for detecting the temperature of water flow is arranged between the water inlet of the heater and the water inlet end of the heat exchanger.

[0025] In an embodiment of the present application, a second detector for detecting the temperature of water flow is arranged between the temperature riser and the second joint.

[0026] In an embodiment of the present application, a flow detector is arranged between the water pump and the first joint.

[0027] In an embodiment of the present application, the waterway system comprises a water outlet pipe and a water supply pipe, the water outlet pipe is communicated with the second joint, the water supply pipe is communicated with the bypass pipe, and the water outlet pipe and the water supply pipe are towards the same side.

[0028] In the waterway system of the water heater, the valve body in the thermostatic valve assembly is provided with a mixed water cavity, a first water inlet, a second water inlet and a mixed water outlet communicated with the mixed water cavity, the first joint is arranged on the valve body to communicate the water supply pipe, the first water inlet and the water inlet end of the water heater, the second joint is arranged to communicate the water outlet end of the water heater and the second water inlet, so that the water inlet end and the water outlet end of the water heater are communicated with the first water inlet and the second water inlet respectively to form an internal circulation loop. The bypass pipe is connected between the first joint and the second joint, the bypass pipe is connected in parallel with the mixed water cavity, so that when in the internal circulation mode, the water flow passing through the thermostatic valve assembly can flow through the bypass pipe and the mixed water cavity at the same time, the flow area of the thermostatic valve assembly is increased, the water flow of the internal circulation loop is ensured, and the heat exchange efficiency of the water heater is improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0029] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without paying any creative work.

[0030] Figure 1 It is a structural diagram of a water-using mode of a water system of a water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the water circuit structure of the thermostatic valve assembly in the water circuit system of the water heater of the present invention in water use mode;

[0032] Figure 3 It is a structural diagram of an embodiment of an internal circulation mode of a water system of a water heater of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the water circuit structure of the thermostatic valve assembly in the water circuit system of the water heater of the present invention in the internal circulation mode;

[0034] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the appearance and structure of a thermostatic valve assembly in the water system of a water heater of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the thermostatic valve assembly in the water system of the water heater of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the water system of the water heater of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the water system of the water heater after removing the mounting plate;

[0038] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure of the water system of the water heater in a top view;

[0039] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of a water-using mode of the water system of the water heater of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 11 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the internal circulation mode of the water system of the water heater of the present invention.

[0041] Description of Figure Numbers:

[0042] Thermostatic valve assembly 1; valve body 11; valve body 111; valve core 112; driving member 113; first water inlet 101; second water inlet 102; mixed water outlet 103; first connecting port 104; second connecting port 105; first connector 12; first interface 12a; second connector 13; second interface 13a; first flow channel 131; second flow channel 132; bypass pipe 14; cold water interface 14a; bypass pipe body 141; first connecting pipe 142; second connecting pipe 143; one-way valve 15; flow sensor 16; flow detector 17; heat exchanger 2; lug 21; water pump 3; heater 4; temperature riser 5; bracket 6; mounting plate 61; shock pad 7; first bellow 81; second bellow 82; water mixing valve 83; shower head 84; water outlet pipe 91; water supply pipe 92; first detector 93; second detector 94; third detector 95; fourth detector 96; pressure relief valve 97; check valve 98; angle valve 99.

[0043] The purposes, functional features and advantages of the present application will be further described with reference to the embodiments and the accompanying drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present application, rather than all the embodiments of the present application. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all the other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative work fall within the protection scope of the present application.

[0045] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present application involve directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indications are only used to explain the relative position relationship, movement condition, etc. between components in a certain posture (as shown in the drawings), and if the certain posture changes, the directional indications also change accordingly.

[0046] Meanwhile, the meaning of "and / or" or "and / or" appearing throughout the text is that it includes three schemes. Taking "A and / or B" as an example, it includes A scheme, or B scheme, or A and B schemes.

[0047] In addition, if the description of "first", "second" and the like is involved in the embodiments of the present application, the description of "first", "second" and the like is only for the purpose of description, and cannot be understood as indicating or implying the relative importance of the indicated technical features or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features. Therefore, the features limited by "first", "second" can be explicitly or implicitly included at least one of the features. In addition, the technical solutions of various embodiments can be combined with each other, but it must be based on the realization of the ordinary skilled in the art, when the combination of technical solutions appears contradictory or unachievable, it should be considered that the combination of technical solutions does not exist, nor within the protection scope required by the present application.

[0048] The water heater has become one of the necessary household appliances, which can provide hot water for bathing and kitchen, and the water heater with constant temperature water outlet function is more and more favored by people. The waterway system of the water heater can realize water outlet control through the constant temperature valve. The traditional constant temperature valve assembly generally includes a cold water passage, a hot water passage, a mixed water chamber, a mixed water passage and a valve core. The amount of cold water and hot water entering the mixed water chamber is adjusted by the valve core, so that the mixed water temperature of the mixed water passage is the water temperature required by the user.

[0049] When the traditional constant temperature valve assembly is applied to the phase change water heater, in addition to the water mode, the phase change water heater also has an internal circulation preheating mode. In the internal circulation preheating mode, the water in the circulation loop needs to heat the phase change material. At this time, the water in the internal circulation passage needs to pass through the hot water port of the constant temperature valve assembly, the mixed water chamber and the cold water port in turn. Since the flow area of the cold water port and the flow area of the hot water port are approximately inversely related (when the flow area of the cold water port is larger, the flow area of the hot water port is smaller, and vice versa), the internal circulation waterway is easily blocked, resulting in insufficient water flow of the internal circulation waterway and low heat exchange efficiency.

[0050] Therefore, the present application provides a waterway system of a water heater, which aims to increase the flow area of the waterway system of the water heater in the internal circulation mode, improve the water flow of the internal circulation waterway and improve the heat exchange efficiency. The waterway system of the water heater comprises a water heater, a water supply pipe and a constant temperature valve assembly 1.

[0051] The structure of the constant temperature valve assembly 1 will be described below.

[0052] In the embodiments of the present application, as shown in Figures 1 to 4 The constant temperature valve assembly 1 comprises a valve body 11, a first joint 12, a second joint 13 and a bypass pipe 14.

[0053] The valve body 11 is provided with a mixed water cavity, a first water inlet 101, a second water inlet 102 and a mixed water outlet 103 which are in communication with the mixed water cavity; the first connector 12 is arranged on the valve body 11 and is used to connect the water supply pipe, the first water inlet 101 and the water inlet end of the water heater; the second connector 13 is arranged on the valve body 11 and is used to connect the water outlet end of the water heater and the second water inlet 102; the bypass pipe 14 is connected between the first connector 12 and the second connector 13 and is in parallel with the mixed water cavity.

[0054] In this embodiment, the valve body 11 can be understood as a component for mixing cold water and hot water, which is provided with a mixed water cavity, a first water inlet 101, a second water inlet 102 and a mixed water outlet 103 which are in communication with the mixed water cavity. The first water inlet 101 is in communication with a water supply pipe (such as a tap water pipe) for supplying cold water. The second water inlet 102 is used to communicate with the water outlet end of the water heater. The mixed water cavity is used to mix the cold water entering from the first water inlet 101 and the hot water entering from the second water inlet 102, and the mixed water outlet 103 is used to connect a water terminal (such as a shower head, a faucet, etc.) after reaching the temperature required by the user.

[0055] As an example, the valve body 11 includes a valve body 111, a valve core 112 and a driving member 113. The valve body 111 forms the mixed water cavity, the first water inlet 101, the second water inlet 102 and the mixed water outlet 103. The valve core 112 is arranged in the mixed water cavity. The driving member 113 is used to drive the valve core 112 to move in the mixed water cavity, so as to adjust the opening degree of the first water inlet 101 and the second water inlet 102, thereby achieving the function of adjusting the water inlet amount of cold and hot water.

[0056] The first connector 12 is arranged on the valve body 11. It can be understood that the first connector 12 and the valve body 11 are in an integrated structure or a separate structure. When they are in an integrated structure, they can be manufactured by 3D printing or mold injection molding process. When they are in a separate structure, they can be fixed and connected by screwing, buckling or other ways. The first connector 12 is used to connect the water supply pipe, the first water inlet 101 and the water inlet end of the water heater, so that in the water use mode, the cold water in the water supply pipe can smoothly enter the mixed water cavity through the first water inlet 101, and at the same time, the cold water in the water supply pipe can smoothly enter the water inlet end of the water heater; in the internal circulation mode, the first water inlet 101 is in communication with the water inlet end of the water heater, so that the water outlet end of the water heater, the mixed water cavity and the water inlet end of the water heater can form an internal circulation loop with the water heater.

[0057] The second joint 13 is arranged on the valve body 11. It can be understood that the second joint 13 is in an integrated structure or a separate structure with the valve body 11. When it is in an integrated structure, it can be manufactured by 3D printing or mold injection molding process. When it is in a separate structure, it can be fixed and connected by screwing, buckling or other ways. The second joint 13 is used to connect the water outlet of the water heater with the second water inlet 102, so that no matter in the water use mode or in the internal circulation mode, the hot water heated by the water heater can smoothly enter the mixing chamber.

[0058] The bypass pipe 14 is connected between the first joint 12 and the second joint 13. It can be understood that the inlet end of the bypass pipe 14 is connected with the second joint 13, the outlet end of the bypass pipe 14 is connected with the first joint 12, or the inlet end and the outlet end of the bypass pipe 14 are respectively connected on the flow path between the first joint 12 and the second joint 13. The specific connection mode is not limited here, as long as the bypass pipe 14 is parallel connected with the mixing chamber, so that in the internal circulation mode, the water flowing out of the water outlet of the water heater can flow to the water inlet of the water heater through the bypass pipe 14. In actual application, the number of the bypass pipe 14 can be one, two or more than two.

[0059] As can be seen from the above, when the constant temperature valve assembly 1 is applied to the water system of the water heater, the water path in the constant temperature valve assembly 1 will change according to different working modes of the water heater:

[0060] When the water use mode is used, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 The cold water of the water supply pipe enters the mixing chamber through the first water inlet 101 via the first joint 12 in one way, and flows to the water inlet of the water heater in another way. The hot water heated by the water heater enters the mixing chamber through the second joint 13 and mixes with the cold water provided by the water supply pipe. After reaching the temperature required by the user, it flows out from the mixed water outlet 103.

[0061] When the internal circulation mode is used, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4, the water outlet of the water heater and the connecting pipe between the water inlet end and the water outlet end of the water heater, the thermostatic valve assembly 1 and the constant temperature valve assembly 1 form an inner circulation loop, at this time, the water flowing out of the water outlet end of the water heater can flow to the water inlet end of the water heater through the bypass pipe 14 and the mixed water cavity two-way water path, so as to increase the flow area of the water passing through the thermostatic valve assembly 1 in the inner circulation loop, and ensure the water flow in the inner circulation loop. As an example, the water heater is a phase change water heater, the inner container is provided with a phase change material heat exchanger 2, and the inner container is provided with a heater 4 between the thermostatic valve assembly 1. The cold water is heated by the heater 4 and then enters the inner container to exchange heat with the phase change material heat exchanger 2 to become low-temperature water, and then enters the thermostatic valve assembly 1 through the second joint 13, and then flows to the heater 4 through the first joint 12 through the bypass pipe 14 and the mixed water cavity two-way water path for re-heating. In this way, the phase change material is heated to a preset temperature.

[0062] In summary, in the thermostatic valve assembly 1, the valve body 11 is provided with a mixed water cavity, a first water inlet 101, a second water inlet 102 and a mixed water outlet 103 which are communicated with the mixed water cavity. The first joint 12 is arranged on the valve body 11 to connect the water supply pipe, the first water inlet 101 and the water inlet end of the water heater, and the second joint 13 is arranged to connect the water outlet end of the water heater and the second water inlet 102, so that the water inlet end and the water outlet end of the water heater are respectively communicated with the first water inlet 101 and the second water inlet 102 to form an inner circulation loop. The bypass pipe 14 is connected between the first joint 12 and the second joint 13, and the bypass pipe 14 is connected in parallel with the mixed water cavity, so that in the inner circulation preheating mode, the water flowing through the thermostatic valve assembly 1 can flow through the bypass pipe 14 and the mixed water cavity two-way water path at the same time, thereby increasing the flow area of the thermostatic valve assembly 1, ensuring the water flow in the inner circulation loop, and improving the heat exchange efficiency of the water heater.

[0063] In an embodiment of the present application, as shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 The bypass pipe 14 is provided with a cold water interface 14a for connecting the water supply pipe.

[0064] In the embodiment, the cold water interface 14a is arranged on the bypass pipe 14, and the cold water interface 14a is used to connect the water supply pipe supplying cold water. Therefore, the bypass pipe 14 can function as the water inlet pipe of the water path system of the water heater, that is, the bypass pipe 14 can be used as the water inlet pipe in the water use mode and as the bypass water path in the inner circulation mode, so that it is not necessary to additionally specially arrange the water inlet pipe, thereby simplifying the pipe layout, reducing the overall occupied space, and improving the assembly efficiency.

[0065] In actual application, the cold water interface 14a can be arranged at the end position or the middle position of the bypass pipe 14, and the cold water interface 14a can be connected with the water supply pipe in the form of screwing or buckling.

[0066] In an embodiment of the present application, as shown in Figure 6 The bypass pipe 14 is provided with a flow sensor 16.

[0067] By providing the flow sensor 16 on the bypass pipe 14, the water flow can be detected, which can detect whether there is water in the waterway system, and whether the waterway system is circulating in the internal circulation mode, thereby preventing the water heater from dry burning.

[0068] As an example, the flow sensor 16 is installed on the bypass pipe 14 near the cold water interface 14a, which can detect the flow of cold water entering through the cold water interface 14a in the water use mode, and can also detect the flow of internal circulation water circulating in the bypass pipe 14 in the internal circulation mode.

[0069] In an embodiment of the present application, as shown in Figure 2 and Figure 4 The bypass pipe 14 includes a bypass pipe body 141, a first connecting pipe 142, and a second connecting pipe 143. The bypass pipe body 141 is arranged opposite to the valve body 11, and the cold water interface 14a is arranged at one end of the bypass pipe body 141. The first connecting pipe 142 connects the bypass pipe body 141 and the first joint 12, and the first connecting pipe 142 is located on the side of the bypass pipe body 141 away from the cold water interface 14a. The second connecting pipe 143 connects the bypass pipe body 141 and the second joint 13, and the second connecting pipe 143 is located between the cold water interface 14a and the first connecting pipe 142.

[0070] This embodiment illustrates the structure of the bypass pipe 14. The first connecting pipe 142 and the second connecting pipe 143 are connecting ends of the bypass pipe body 141. The first connecting pipe 142 is connected to the first joint 12, and the second connecting pipe 143 is connected to the second joint 13, so that the bypass pipe body 141 is connected in parallel with the mixed water chamber. By arranging the cold water interface 14a at one end of the bypass pipe body 141, and arranging the second connecting pipe 143 between the cold water interface 14a and the first connecting pipe 142, the water flow direction in the bypass pipe body 141 is from the second connecting pipe 143 to the first connecting pipe 142 in both the water use mode and the internal circulation mode, thereby avoiding changes in water flow direction when switching between different modes, causing water resistance, and making the water flow more smooth, improving the water outlet efficiency or internal circulation efficiency.

[0071] Optionally, the first connecting pipe 142 and the first joint 12 can be connected in a plug-in + buckle fixed manner, and a sealing ring is arranged at the matching position of the first connecting pipe 142 and the first joint 12 for sealing and preventing water leakage.

[0072] Optionally, the connection mode of the second connecting pipe 143 and the second connector 13 can adopt the mode of plug-in + buckle fixation, and a sealing ring is arranged at the matching position of the second connecting pipe 143 and the second connector 13 for sealing and preventing water leakage.

[0073] Optionally, the bypass pipe body 141, the first connecting pipe 142 and the second connecting pipe 143 are integrally formed, which can be integrally formed by 3D printing or mold injection.

[0074] In order to facilitate installation, in an embodiment of the present application, the first connecting pipe 142 and the second connecting pipe 143 are located on the same side of the bypass pipe body 141 in the radial direction. Figure 2 、 Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the first connecting pipe 142 and the second connecting pipe 143 are located on the same side of the bypass pipe body 141.

[0075] In the embodiment, the first connecting pipe 142, the second connecting pipe 143 and the bypass pipe body 141 form a "∩" type structure as a whole, and the first connecting pipe 142 and the second connecting pipe 143 are located on the same side of the bypass pipe body 141. Therefore, when the bypass pipe 14 is assembled, the first connecting pipe 142 and the second connecting pipe 143 can be installed on the same side of the bypass pipe body 141 and the corresponding first connector 12 and second connector 13. Therefore, it is not necessary to turn over for multiple times during assembly, and the assembly efficiency is further improved.

[0076] Further, as shown in Figure 2 、 Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the interface between the first connector 12 and the first connecting pipe 142 is defined as the first interface 12a, the interface between the second connector 13 and the second connecting pipe 143 is defined as the second interface 13a, and the central axis of the second interface 13a is parallel to the central axis of the first interface 12a.

[0077] In the embodiment, by arranging the central axes of the first interface 12a and the second interface 13a in parallel, the assembly direction of the first connecting pipe 142 is consistent with the assembly direction of the second connecting pipe 143, so that the first connecting pipe 142 and the second connecting pipe 143 can be installed in the same direction and the corresponding first connector 12 and second connector 13. Therefore, the assembly steps are further simplified, and the assembly efficiency is improved.

[0078] In addition, the valve body 11, the first connector 12, the bypass pipe 14 and the second connector 13 form a "kou" type pipe structure, which is regular in layout and does not interfere with each other, and is more convenient for pipe installation.

[0079] In an embodiment of the present application, as shown in Figure 2 、 Figure 4 and Figure 6The thermostatic valve assembly 1 further includes a one-way valve 15 , which is disposed on the flow path between the cold water interface 14 a and the second water inlet 102 , for unidirectionally directing the flow path from the second water inlet 102 to the first joint 12 .

[0080] In this embodiment, a one-way valve 15 is provided on the flow channel between the cold water interface 14a and the second water inlet 102. When in water use mode, the one-way valve 15 blocks the flow channel between the cold water interface 14a and the second water inlet 102, thereby preventing the cold water entering from the cold water interface 14a from being mixed into the hot water before entering the second water inlet 102 in advance, thereby preventing the cold and hot water from mixing in advance and causing the outlet water temperature to be uncontrollable.

[0081] In the internal circulation mode, the cold water interface 14a is closed. At this time, the one-way valve 15 can open the flow path between the second water inlet 102 and the first joint 12, so that the water flowing out from the water outlet of the water heater can flow smoothly through the bypass pipe 14 to the first joint 12, thereby increasing the flow area of ​​the internal circulation loop.

[0082] It is understandable that the specific installation position of the one-way valve 15 can be determined according to actual conditions. For example, it can be installed in the bypass pipe 14, or in the second joint 13, or inside the valve body 11, etc.

[0083] In practical applications, considering installation convenience, in one embodiment, the one-way valve 15 is provided at the connection between the bypass pipe 14 and the second connector 13. Specifically, the one-way valve 15 is installed at the connection between the second connecting pipe 143 and the second port 13a. During assembly, the one-way valve 15 can be first installed in the second connecting pipe 143 and then inserted into the second port 13a.

[0084] In one embodiment of the present application, the flow cross-sectional area of ​​the bypass pipe 14 is defined as S0, the flow cross-sectional area of ​​the first water inlet 101 is S1, and the flow cross-sectional area of ​​the second water inlet 102 is S2, satisfying: S0>0.5S1, S0>0.5S2.

[0085] It can be understood that the first water inlet 101 and the second water inlet 102 are both communicated with the mixed water cavity, and the amount of cold water and hot water entering the mixed water cavity is determined by the opening degree of the first water inlet 101 and the second water inlet 102. When the opening degree of the first water inlet 101 increases, the opening degree of the second water inlet 102 decreases, and when the opening degree of the first water inlet 101 decreases, the opening degree of the second water inlet 102 increases. Therefore, when the inner circulation mode, in order to ensure greater water flow, the opening degree of the first water inlet 101 and the opening degree of the second water inlet 102 are about half of the flow area thereof, that is, the flow area of the first water inlet 101 is 0.5S1, and the flow area of the second water inlet 102 is 0.5S2. In the embodiment, by setting the flow area S0 of the bypass pipe 14 to satisfy S0>0.5S1 and S0>0.5S2, more water flow can flow through the bypass pipe 14, further reducing the resistance and improving the water flow.

[0086] Further, the flow area S0 of the bypass pipe 14, the flow area S1 of the first water inlet 101, and the flow area S2 of the second water inlet 102 satisfy S0>S1 and S0>S2. In this way, the flow area in the inner circulation loop can be further increased, and the water flow can be improved.

[0087] In an embodiment of the present application, as shown in Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 , the first joint 12 is a three-way joint, and the three interfaces of the first joint 12 correspond to the connection of the first water inlet 101, the water inlet end of the water heater, and the bypass pipe 14, respectively.

[0088] In the embodiment, the first joint 12 is a three-way joint, which can simultaneously connect the first water inlet 101, the water inlet end of the water heater, and the bypass pipe 14, without the need for additional special multiple joints to assemble, thereby simplifying the pipeline layout.

[0089] Alternatively, the first joint 12 can be a “T” joint, a “Y” joint, a “△” joint, or other shaped joints.

[0090] In an embodiment of the present application, as shown in Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 , the second joint 13 is a four-way joint, and the first flow channel 131 and the second flow channel 132 are formed in the second joint 13 and are isolated from each other. The first flow channel 131 is communicated with the water outlet end of the water heater, the bypass pipe 14, and the second water inlet 102; and the second flow channel 132 is communicated with the mixed water outlet 103 and the water outlet pipe.

[0091] In the embodiment, the second joint 13 is a four-way joint, so that only one second joint 13 is needed to realize the communication function of the water outlet end of the water heater, the bypass pipe 14 and the second water inlet 102, and the communication function of the mixed water outlet 103 and the water outlet pipe. In this way, the pipeline structure is further simplified, and the overall structure volume is saved.

[0092] As an example, the valve body 11 has a first connecting port 104 and a second connecting port 105. The first connecting port 104 is in communication with the mixed water outlet 103, and the second connecting port 105 is in communication with the second water inlet 102. The second connecting port 105 is arranged at the periphery of the first connecting port 104.

[0093] Correspondingly, the first flow channel 131 of the second joint 13 surrounds the outer periphery of the second flow channel 132, and is respectively in butt joint assembly with the corresponding second connecting port 105 and the first connecting port 104. The end of the second flow channel 132 away from the first connecting port 104 is used to connect the water outlet pipe to output water to the water terminal. In this way, the first flow channel 131 and the second flow channel 132 are coaxial, the number of interfaces of the second joint 13 is reduced, the pipe mounting steps can be reduced, and the occupied space can be reduced.

[0094] The water heater and the related structure will be described below.

[0095] In an embodiment of the present application, the water heater includes a heat exchanger 2, a water pump 3 and a heater 4. The water inlet end of the heat exchanger 2 is in communication with the first joint 12, and the water outlet end of the heat exchanger 2 is in communication with the second joint 13. The water pump 3 is arranged between the first joint 12 and the water inlet end of the heat exchanger 2. The heater 4 is arranged between the water pump 3 and the water inlet end of the heat exchanger 2. Specifically, the heater 4 is used to heat the water entering the heat exchanger 2. The heated water can exchange heat with the phase change material in the heat exchanger 2 to store heat in the heat exchanger 2 or reheat the water through the heat exchanger 2.

[0096] In the embodiment, the first joint 12 is in communication with the bypass pipe 14, the first water inlet 101 and the water inlet end of the heat exchanger 2, and the second joint 13 is in communication with the water outlet end of the heat exchanger 2, the second water inlet 102 and the bypass pipe 14. Therefore, the first joint 12, the water pump 3, the heater 4, the heat exchanger 2, the second joint 13, the valve body 11 of the thermostatic valve assembly 1 and the bypass pipe 14 are sequentially in communication to form a loop.

[0097] In the water using mode, the cold water interface 14a of the bypass pipe 14 introduces cold water, which flows through the first joint 12, the water pump 3, the heater 4, the heat exchanger 2 in sequence and then flows into the mixed water chamber from the second joint 13, and another part of the cold water directly flows into the mixed water chamber from the first joint 12 and then mixes with hot water to flow out from the mixed water outlet 103 to the water using terminal. It can be understood that in this mode, the water pump 3 and the heater 4 can be turned on or not according to actual needs.

[0098] In the internal circulation mode, the cold water interface 14a and the mixed water outlet 103 are closed, and the water pump 3 and the heater 4 are turned on to work. Under the action of the water pump 3, the water in the internal circulation loop can flow in the loop formed by the first joint 12, the water pump 3, the heater 4, the heat exchanger 2, the second joint 13, the mixed water chamber and the bypass pipe 14, until the energy storage material in the heat exchanger 2 is heated to the preset temperature.

[0099] As an example, the heat exchanger 2 can be a phase change heat exchanger.

[0100] In an embodiment of the present application, please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 , the water heater comprises a temperature riser 5 arranged between the water outlet end of the heat exchanger 2 and the second joint 13. Specifically, the temperature riser 5 is used to heat the water flowing out of the water outlet end of the heat exchanger 2, which can cooperate with the heater 4 in the internal circulation mode to ensure the water temperature of the circulating water, so that the energy storage material in the heat exchanger 2 stores enough heat energy, and on the other hand, it can provide hot water for the thermostatic valve assembly 1 in the water using mode, so that the thermostatic valve assembly 1 mixes the hot water and the cold water to form warm water of a preset temperature to meet the water using needs of the user. It can be understood that the existence of the temperature riser 5 can improve the heating efficiency of the water heater.

[0101] In an embodiment of the present application, please refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 , the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5 are both cast aluminum electric heaters. It can be understood that the cast aluminum electric heater comprises an aluminum body and an electric heating device arranged in the aluminum body, and the aluminum body is provided with a serpentine flow channel for water flow. When the cast aluminum electric heater works, the heat generated by the electric heating device is transmitted to the water in the serpentine flow channel through the aluminum body, so as to achieve the purpose of heating the water. In this process, the electric heating device and the water are isolated by the aluminum body, which reduces the risk of electric leakage and also eliminates the need to set up an additional electric wall. In addition, the cast aluminum electric heater has a smaller volume compared with the conventional heating structure, which is helpful for the miniaturization design of the water heater.

[0102] In an embodiment of the present application, please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8The water system comprises a support 6, the heat exchanger 2 is installed on one side of the support 6, the heater 4, the temperature riser 5, the water pump 3 and the thermostatic valve assembly 1 are installed on the other side of the support 6. In this way, the water heater and the heat exchanger 2 are installed on the two sides of the support 6 respectively, so as to facilitate the pipeline arrangement and realize the miniaturization design, and the assembly difficulty is reduced.

[0103] In this embodiment, the water system comprises a mounting plate 61, the mounting plate 61 is installed on the support 6 and abuts against the opposite sides of the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5 respectively.

[0104] In an embodiment of the present application, referring to Figures 7 to 9 The heater 4 and the temperature riser 5 are arranged side by side, the water pump 3 and the thermostatic valve assembly 1 are arranged on the same side of the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5 and are opposite to the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5 respectively. It can be understood that the temperatures of the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5 are relatively high, and the side-by-side arrangement of the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5 can reduce the heat dissipation to the outside, which is beneficial to improve the energy efficiency. At the same time, the water pump 3 and the thermostatic valve assembly 1 are arranged on the same side of the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5, the layout of the components of the water heater is reasonable, which is beneficial to reduce the space occupation, and the water pump 3 and the thermostatic valve assembly 1 are opposite to the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5 respectively, which can effectively shorten the pipeline length between the water pump 3 and the heater 4 and the pipeline length between the thermostatic valve assembly 1 and the water pump 3, which is beneficial to reduce the water resistance and improve the flow efficiency.

[0105] In an embodiment of the present application, referring to Figures 7 to 9 The water pump 3 is installed on the support 6 through a damping pad 7. Specifically, the damping pad 7 is arranged between the water pump 3 and the support 6, and the damping pad 7 can be selected from elastic devices such as silica gel and sponge. In this way, the noise generated by the water pump 3 during operation can be effectively reduced, which is beneficial to improve the user experience.

[0106] In an embodiment of the present application, referring to Figures 7 to 9 The water inlet of the heater 4 is communicated with the water outlet of the water pump 3 through a first bellows pipe 81. Specifically, the water inlet of the heater 4 is opened on the outer periphery of the end of the heater 4 close to the support 6, and the water outlet of the heater 4 is opened on the outer periphery of the end of the heater 4 away from the support 6. The first bellows pipe 81 is connected with the water pump 3 through a sealing ring such as a rubber pad. It can be understood that the first bellows pipe 81 communicates the water inlet of the heater 4 and the water outlet of the water pump 3, which can realize the coaxial connection of the first bellows pipe 81 and the water pump 3 and the first bellows pipe 81 and the heater 4, can reduce the stress generated at the connection position, and reduce the risk of sealing failure caused by uneven compression of the sealing ring.

[0107] In an embodiment of the present application, referring to Figures 7 to 9The water outlet of the temperature riser 5 is communicated with the second joint 13 through a second bellow 82. Specifically, the water outlet of the temperature riser 5 is arranged on the outer periphery of the temperature riser 5 close to the support 6, and the water inlet of the temperature riser 5 is arranged on the outer periphery of the temperature riser 5 away from the support 6. The second bellow 82 is connected with the second joint 13 through a sealing ring such as a rubber pad. It can be understood that the water outlet of the temperature riser 5 is communicated with the second joint 13 through the second bellow 82, which can realize coaxial connection of the second bellow 82 and the temperature riser 5 and the second bellow 82 and the second joint 13, can reduce the stress generated at the connection position, and reduce the risk of sealing failure caused by uneven compression of the sealing ring.

[0108] In an embodiment of the present application, referring to Figures 7 to 9 , the water system includes a water outlet pipe 91 and a water supply pipe 92, the water outlet pipe 91 is communicated with the second joint 13, the water supply pipe 92 is communicated with the bypass pipe 14, and the water outlet pipe 91 and the water supply pipe 92 are arranged towards the same side. Specifically, the water outlet pipe 91 is used to provide water with a suitable temperature to the outside world, and the water supply pipe 92 is used to connect to a water source in the outside world. In this embodiment, the side surface of the heat exchanger 2 is provided with a plurality of lugs 21 for fixing to the wall surface. After the heat exchanger 2 is fixed to the wall surface, the arrangement direction of the water outlet pipe 91 and the water supply pipe 92 is vertical and downward, so as to facilitate the water outlet pipe 91 and the water supply pipe 92 to be connected with a water using device (such as a shower) and a water source respectively. At the same time, the arrangement is reasonable, which is beneficial to reduce the space occupation.

[0109] In an embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 2 and Figure 10 , the water system includes a controller, a first detector 93 and a second detector 94, the first detector 93, the second detector 94, the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5 are electrically connected with the controller. The first detector 93 is arranged between the water outlet end of the heater 4 and the water inlet end of the heat exchanger 2, and is used to detect the temperature of the water flow flowing out of the water outlet end of the heater 4 and send a corresponding first signal to the controller. The second detector 94 is arranged between the water outlet end of the temperature riser 5 and the second joint 13, and is used to detect the temperature of the water flow flowing out of the water outlet end of the temperature riser 5 and send a corresponding second signal to the controller. The controller controls the heating power of the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5 according to the first signal and the second signal, so as to facilitate the hot water with a suitable water temperature to exchange heat with the heat exchanger 2 and the hot water with a suitable water temperature to mix with cold water in the thermostatic valve to obtain mixed water with a suitable water temperature. It should be noted that the thermostatic valve here refers to the whole of the valve body 11, the first joint 12 and the second joint 13.

[0110] In an embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 2 , Figure 7 and Figure 10The water system comprises a third detector 95 arranged on the outlet pipe 91 and electrically connected to the controller, and the third detector 95 is configured to detect the temperature of the water flow from the mixed water outlet 103 and send a third signal to the controller. In this way, the controller can obtain the temperature of the mixed water, so as to adjust the heating power of the heater 4 and the temperature booster 5 according to the current temperature of the mixed water, so as to obtain mixed water with appropriate and stable water temperature.

[0111] Specifically, the water system comprises a mixing valve 83 arranged on the outlet pipe 91 and having one outlet end and two inlet ends, one of which is connected to an external water source, and the other is connected to the outlet end of the third detector 95. In this embodiment, the outlet end of the mixing valve 83 is connected to the shower head 84, so that tap water can be mixed with mixed water to achieve the appropriate bathing water temperature. The presence of the mixing valve 83 can adjust the mixing ratio of the amount of tap water and the amount of mixed water to achieve the water flow with the desired water temperature of the user.

[0112] In an embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 2 , Figure 7 and Figure 10 , the water system further comprises a flow detector 17 arranged between the water inlet of the water pump 3 and the first joint 12 and electrically connected to the controller, and the flow detector 17 is configured to detect the flow of the water flow into the water pump 3 and send a corresponding electrical signal to the controller. In this way, the controller can control the operating power of the water pump 3 according to the flow of the water flow into the water pump 3, so as to obtain mixed water with appropriate water temperature.

[0113] In an embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 2 , Figure 7 and Figure 10 , the water system further comprises a flow sensor 16, a fourth detector 96, a pressure relief valve 97, a check valve 98 and an angle valve 99. The flow sensor 16, the fourth detector 96, the pressure relief valve 97, the check valve 98 and the angle valve 99 are arranged in sequence on the water supply pipe 92. The angle valve 99 is used to connect to an external water source, and tap water can pass through the angle valve 99, the check valve 98, the pressure relief valve 97, the fourth detector 96 and the flow sensor 16 in sequence and enter the bypass pipe 14. Among them, the angle valve 99 is used to control the amount of tap water entering, and the check valve 98 is used to prevent the backflow of tap water. The pressure relief valve 97 is used to release the tap water when the water pressure is too high to maintain a safe water pressure. The fourth detector 96 is electrically connected to the controller, and the fourth detector 96 is configured to detect the temperature of the tap water and send a fourth signal to the controller. The controller can control the operating power of the water pump 3, the heating power of the temperature booster 5 and the heater according to the fourth signal, so as to obtain mixed water with appropriate water temperature.

[0114] In an embodiment of the present application, referring toFigure 2 、 Figure 7 and Figure 10 In the water mode, tap water flows along the water supply pipe 92, and sequentially passes through the angle valve 99, the check valve 98, the pressure relief valve 97, the fourth detector 96 and the flow sensor 16, and enters the bypass pipe 14. Part of the tap water in the bypass pipe 14 is driven by the water pump 3, and sequentially passes through the flow detector 17, the water pump 3, the heater 4, the first detector 93, the heat exchanger 2, the temperature booster 5 and the second detector 94, and becomes hot water and enters the thermostatic valve. At the same time, another part of the tap water (cold water) in the bypass pipe 14 also enters the thermostatic valve, and mixes with the hot water to obtain mixed water. Then, the mixed water flows out from the water outlet pipe 91, mixes with tap water from another water source in the mixing valve 83, to obtain warm water with a temperature desired by the user, and finally enters the shower head 84 for use by the user.

[0115] In an embodiment of the present application, please refer to Figure 2 、 Figure 7 and Figure 11 In the internal circulation mode, no tap water flows into the water supply pipe 92, and no mixed water flows out from the water outlet pipe 91. The circulating water in the system is driven by the water pump 3, and sequentially passes through the flow detector 17, the water pump 3, the heater 4, the first detector 93, the heat exchanger 2 and the temperature booster 5, and reaches the second detector 94. The one-way valve 15 is in an open state, allowing the circulating water to pass through. The circulating water at the second detector 94 can be divided into two streams, one of which directly enters the thermostatic valve, and returns to the flow detector 17 to continue participating in the heat circulation, and the other of which passes through the one-way valve 15 and the bypass pipe 14, and also returns to the flow detector 17 to continue participating in the heat circulation. In this process, the water flow of the internal circulation loop can be ensured, and the heat exchange efficiency of the water heater can be improved.

[0116] The above only describes the preferred embodiments of the present application, and does not limit the patent scope of the present application. Any equivalent structural transformation made according to the contents of the present application specification and drawings, or direct / indirect application in other related technical fields, falls within the patent protection scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A water system for a water heater, characterized in that: include: water heater; water supply pipes; A thermostatic valve assembly, comprising a valve body, a first joint, a second joint and a bypass pipe. The valve body is provided with a mixing water chamber and a first water inlet, a second water inlet and a mixed water outlet connected to the mixing water chamber. The first joint is provided on the valve body, connecting the water supply pipe, the first water inlet and the water inlet end of the water heater; the second joint is provided on the valve body, connecting the water outlet end of the water heater with the second water inlet; the bypass pipe is connected between the first joint and the second joint, and is connected in parallel with the mixing water chamber.

2. The water circuit system of the water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The bypass pipe is provided with a cold water interface connected to the water supply pipe.

3. The water circuit system of the water heater according to claim 2, wherein: The bypass pipe comprises: A bypass pipe body is arranged opposite to the valve body, and the cold water interface is arranged at one end of the bypass pipe body; a first connecting pipe connecting the bypass pipe body and the first joint, the first connecting pipe being located on a side of the bypass pipe body away from the cold water interface; and The second connecting pipe connects the bypass pipe body and the second joint, and the second connecting pipe is located between the cold water interface and the first connecting pipe.

4. The water circuit system of the water heater according to claim 2, wherein: The thermostatic valve assembly further includes a one-way valve, which is disposed on the flow passage between the cold water interface and the second water inlet, for unidirectionally directing the flow from the second water inlet to the first joint.

5. The water circuit system of the water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: A flow sensor is provided on the bypass pipe.

6. The water system of the water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The water system includes a water outlet pipe; The first joint is a three-way joint, and the three interfaces of the first joint are respectively connected to the first water inlet, the water inlet end of the water heater and the bypass pipe; And / or, the second joint is a four-way joint, and a first flow channel and a second flow channel isolated from each other are formed in the second joint, the first flow channel connects the water outlet end of the water heater, the bypass pipe and the second water inlet; the second flow channel connects the mixed water outlet and the water outlet pipe.

7. The water circuit system of the water heater according to claim 1, wherein: The water heater comprises: a heat exchanger, wherein the water inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the first joint, and the water outlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the second joint; a water pump, provided between the first joint and the water inlet end of the heat exchanger; and The heater is arranged between the water pump and the water inlet end of the heat exchanger.

8. The water circuit system of the water heater according to claim 7, wherein: The heat exchanger is a phase change heat exchanger.

9. The water circuit system of the water heater according to claim 7, wherein: The water inlet of the heater is communicated with the water outlet of the water pump through a first bellows.

10. The water circuit system of the water heater according to claim 7, wherein: A first detector for detecting water flow temperature is provided between the heater and the water inlet end of the heat exchanger.

11. The water circuit system of the water heater according to claim 7, wherein: The water heater includes a temperature booster, which is arranged between the water outlet end of the heat exchanger and the second joint.

12. The water system of the water heater according to claim 11, wherein: The heater and the temperature riser are both cast aluminum electric heaters.

13. The water system of the water heater according to claim 11, wherein: The water outlet of the temperature booster is communicated with the second joint through a second bellows.

14. The water system of the water heater according to claim 11, wherein: The water system includes a bracket, the heat exchanger is installed on one side of the bracket, and the heater, the temperature booster, the water pump, and the thermostatic valve assembly are installed on the other side of the bracket.

15. The water circuit system of the water heater according to claim 14, characterized in that: The heater and the temperature booster are arranged side by side, and the water pump and the thermostatic valve assembly are arranged on the same side of the heater and the temperature booster and are opposite to the heater and the temperature booster respectively.

16. The water circuit system of the water heater according to claim 14, wherein: The water pump is mounted on the bracket via a shock-absorbing pad.

17. The water circuit system of the water heater according to claim 11, wherein: A second detector for detecting the temperature of the water flow is provided between the temperature booster and the second joint.

18. The water system of the water heater according to claim 7, wherein: A flow detector is provided between the water pump and the first joint.

19. The water circuit system of the water heater according to claim 1, wherein: The water system includes a water outlet pipe and a water supply pipe, the water outlet pipe is communicated with the second joint, the water supply pipe is communicated with the bypass pipe, and the water outlet pipe and the water supply pipe face the same side.

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