Water drinking device and control method thereof

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention discloses a water drinking device and a control method thereof. The water drinking device comprises a hot tank and a warm water pipeline. The warm water pipeline comprises a warm water tank, a warm water main pipe, a warm water outlet valve and a first water outlet which are sequentially connected in the water flow direction of warm water, and further comprises a warm water branch pipe with the two ends connected with the warm water main pipe and the hot tank respectively and a first control valve arranged on the warm water branch pipe. When warm water is taken, the warm water outlet valve is switched on, the first control valve is switched off, warm water flows out of the warm water tank, the warm water main pipe, the warm water outlet valve and the first water outlet, and when the warm water pipeline is sterilized, the warm water outlet valve is switched off, the first control valve is switched on, and the warm water outlet valve is switched off. Hot water sequentially flows back into the warm water tank from the hot tank, the warm water branch pipe and the warm water main pipe. According to the embodiment of the invention, hot water flows back into the warm water tank from the hot tank to sterilize the warm water pipeline, so that the quantity of bacteria in the warm water pipeline is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of drinking water technology, and more specifically, to a drinking water device and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] With the increasing popularity of drinking water equipment, more and more consumers are using it, and they are paying more and more attention to the cleanliness and hygiene of drinking water.

[0003] The internal components of drinking water equipment include pipes and a water tank. As the drinking water equipment is used for a long time and the pipes and water tank are kept at room temperature for a long time, bacteria will grow in the pipes and water tank, leading to drinking water health problems for users. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a drinking water device and its control method, which aims to reduce the amount of bacteria in the warm water pipeline so that users can drink healthier water.

[0005] The first aspect of this application provides a drinking water device, which includes a heating tank and a warm water pipeline. The warm water pipeline includes a warm water tank, a warm water main pipe, a warm water outlet valve, and a first outlet connected sequentially along the flow direction of the warm water. The warm water pipeline also includes a warm water branch pipe connected at both ends to the warm water main pipe and the heating tank, respectively, and a first control valve disposed on the warm water branch pipe. The connection between the warm water branch pipe and the warm water main pipe is disposed between the heating tank and the warm water outlet valve. When warm water is taken out, the warm water outlet valve is open and the first control valve is closed, and warm water flows out sequentially from the warm water tank, the warm water main pipe, the warm water outlet valve, and the first outlet. When the warm water pipeline is sterilized, the warm water outlet valve is closed and the first control valve is open, and hot water flows back to the warm water tank sequentially from the heating tank, the warm water branch pipe, and the warm water main pipe.

[0006] Furthermore, at the connection between the warm water branch and the warm water main, the warm water main is divided into a common warm water section connected to the warm water tank and a warm water outlet section connected to the warm water outlet valve. When warm water is used, the warm water flows from the common warm water section through the warm water outlet section to the warm water outlet valve. When sterilizing the warm water pipeline, hot water flows from the warm water branch to the common warm water section.

[0007] Furthermore, the drinking water device also includes a first hot water pipeline, which includes a first hot water outlet valve connected to the first water outlet, and a first hot water pipe at both ends connected to the first hot water outlet valve and the hot water tank, respectively. When hot water is taken, the first hot water outlet valve is turned on and the warm water outlet valve is turned off, and hot water flows out from the hot water tank, the first hot water pipe and the first water outlet in sequence.

[0008] Furthermore, the drinking water device also includes a cold water pipeline, which includes a cold tank, a cold water main, a cold water outlet valve, and a second outlet connected sequentially along the direction of cold water flow. The cold water pipeline also includes a cold water branch pipe connected at both ends to the cold water main and the hot water tank, respectively, and a second control valve disposed on the cold water branch pipe. When cold water is used, the cold water outlet valve is open and the second control valve is closed, and cold water flows out sequentially from the cold tank, the cold water main, the cold water outlet valve, and the second outlet. When the cold water pipeline is sterilized, the cold water outlet valve is closed and the second control valve is open, and hot water flows back to the cold tank sequentially from the hot water tank, the cold water branch pipe, and the cold water main.

[0009] Furthermore, at the connection between the cold water branch and the cold water main, the cold water main is divided into a common cold water section connected to the cold tank and a cold water outlet section connected to the cold water outlet valve. When cold water is used, the cold water flows from the common cold water section through the cold water outlet section to the cold water outlet valve. When sterilizing the cold water pipeline, hot water flows from the cold water branch to the common cold water section.

[0010] Furthermore, the connection point between the warm water branch and the warm water main is located near the warm water outlet valve, and / or the connection point between the cold water branch and the cold water main is located near the cold water outlet valve.

[0011] Furthermore, the warm water main pipe and / or the cold water main pipe are equipped with an overflow ultraviolet sterilization device.

[0012] Furthermore, the first outlet and the second outlet are the same outlet, or the first outlet and the second outlet are different outlets.

[0013] Furthermore, the first water outlet and the second water outlet are different water outlets. The drinking water device also includes a second hot water pipeline. The second hot water pipeline includes a second hot water outlet valve connected to the second water outlet, and a second hot water pipe at both ends connected to the second hot water outlet valve and the hot water tank, respectively. When hot water is used, the second hot water outlet valve is turned on, the cold water outlet valve is turned off, and hot water flows out sequentially from the hot water tank, the second hot water pipe, and the second water outlet.

[0014] Furthermore, the first control valve and the second control valve are integrally formed as a three-way control valve, or the first control valve and the second control valve are different control valves.

[0015] Furthermore, when the warm water outlet valve is closed and the first control valve is open, the water in the warm water tank is supplied to the hot water tank in sequence through the warm water main pipe and the warm water branch pipe; and the warm water tank is also connected to the cold water tank so as to supply water to the cold water tank through the warm water tank.

[0016] Furthermore, the hot tank is higher than the warm water tank, and a first water pump is installed on the warm water main pipe to pump water from the warm water tank to the hot tank.

[0017] Furthermore, the cold tank is higher than the warm water tank, and the drinking device also includes a cold tank inlet pipe connected to the cold tank and the warm water tank at both ends respectively. A second water pump is installed on the cold tank inlet pipe to pump water from the warm water tank to the cold tank.

[0018] Furthermore, a third control valve is provided on the main hot water pipe, and the main pipe can be divided into a pumping section connected to the hot water tank and an intermediate section connected to the hot water branch pipe, with the third control valve as the boundary. A fourth control valve is provided on the cold tank inlet pipe, wherein the first pumping pump and the second pumping pump are the same pumping pump and are provided on the pumping section.

[0019] Furthermore, the drinking water device also includes a cold tank drain pipe, which includes a cold tank drain pipe with both ends connected to the cold tank and the warm water tank respectively, and a fifth control valve installed on the cold tank drain pipe.

[0020] Furthermore, the drinking water device also includes a hot tank overflow pipe, which includes a hot tank overflow pipe with both ends connected to the hot tank and the warm water tank respectively.

[0021] Furthermore, the hot tank overflow pipeline also includes a sixth control valve, which is installed on the hot tank overflow pipeline.

[0022] Furthermore, the drinking water device also includes a hot tank drain pipe, which includes a hot tank drain pipe connected to the hot tank and a seventh control valve disposed on the hot tank drain pipe.

[0023] Furthermore, the warm water tank is equipped with an ultraviolet sterilization device, and / or the warm water tank has an air pressure balance hole, and a filter membrane is installed at the air pressure balance hole.

[0024] Furthermore, the warm water tank has a first water level detection element and a first water temperature detection element; and / or, the hot water tank has a second water level detection element and a second water temperature detection element.

[0025] The second aspect of this application provides a control method for a drinking water device, applicable to drinking water devices. The control method includes: when the drinking water device meets preset conditions, controlling the drinking water device to heat the water in the hot tank to a first preset temperature; and controlling the warm water pipeline to deliver hot water from the hot tank to the warm water box to sterilize the warm water pipeline.

[0026] Furthermore, the drinking water device also includes a cold water pipeline connected to the hot water tank. After the step of controlling the warm water pipeline to deliver hot water from the hot water tank to the warm water container to sterilize the warm water pipeline, the device further includes controlling the cold water pipeline to deliver hot water from the hot water tank to the cold water tank to sterilize the cold water pipeline.

[0027] Furthermore, the drinking water device also includes a cold water inlet pipe pumping section connected to the cold water pipeline and a warm water tank. The step of controlling the cold water pipeline to deliver hot water from the hot tank to the cold tank to sterilize the cold water pipeline also includes controlling the cold water pipeline to deliver hot water from the hot tank through the cold tank to the warm water tank to sterilize the cold water pipeline, the cold water inlet pipe and the pumping section.

[0028] Furthermore, before the step of controlling the cold water pipeline to deliver hot water from the hot tank to the cold tank to sterilize the cold water pipeline, the method further includes controlling the warm water pipeline or the cold water pipeline to replenish water from the warm water tank to the hot tank, and controlling the drinking water device to heat the water in the hot tank to the first preset temperature.

[0029] Furthermore, the drinking water device also includes a cold tank drain pipe connecting the cold tank and the warm water tank; after the step of controlling the cold water pipe to deliver hot water from the hot tank to the cold tank to sterilize the cold water pipe, the device further includes controlling the cold tank drain pipe to deliver water from the cold tank to the warm water tank.

[0030] Furthermore, the warm water tank is equipped with an ultraviolet sterilization device. After the step of controlling the drain pipe of the cold tank to deliver water from the cold tank to the warm water tank, the method further includes controlling the ultraviolet sterilization device to start a preset sterilization time; controlling the cold water pipe to deliver water from the warm water tank to the cold tank and the hot tank; or, controlling the warm water pipe to deliver water from the warm water tank to the hot tank, and controlling the cold water pipe to deliver water from the warm water tank to the cold tank.

[0031] Furthermore, the water drinking device meets the preset conditions including at least one of the following conditions: the water drinking device receives a manually triggered sterilization command; the current time reaches a preset time, and no water dispensing operation is detected within a preset sterilization duration after the preset time.

[0032] In this embodiment, when warm water is used, the warm water outlet valve is open and the first control valve is closed, allowing warm water to flow from the warm water tank, the warm water main pipe, the warm water outlet valve, and the first outlet. When replenishing the hot water tank, the warm water outlet valve is closed and the first control valve is open, allowing warm water to replenish the hot water tank from the warm water tank, the warm water main pipe, and the warm water branch pipe. When sterilizing the warm water pipeline, the warm water outlet valve is closed and the first control valve is open, allowing hot water to flow back from the hot water tank, the warm water branch pipe, and the warm water main pipe to the warm water tank. Therefore, in this embodiment, warm water is provided to the user through the warm water pipeline, and the hot water tank is replenished through the warm water pipeline. The two share a common pipeline. Based on this, the hot water in the hot water tank can flow back to the warm water tank along the warm water pipeline, thereby sterilizing the warm water pipeline, reducing the amount of bacteria in the warm water pipeline, and making the user's drinking water healthier. Attached Figure Description

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

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a drinking water device in one embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 2 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a drinking water device in one embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the pipeline structure of a drinking water device in one embodiment of this application, wherein the drinking water device outputs warm water and cold water from a first water outlet and a second water outlet, respectively;

[0037] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the pipeline structure of a drinking water device in one embodiment of this application; wherein the drinking water device sterilizes the warm water pipeline and the cold water pipeline;

[0038] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the pipeline structure of a water drinking device in one embodiment of this application; wherein the water drinking device outputs hot water from a first water outlet and a second water outlet respectively;

[0039] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the pipeline structure of a drinking water device in one embodiment of this application; wherein the drinking water device drains water from the cold tank;

[0040] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the pipeline structure of a water drinking device in one embodiment of this application; wherein the water drinking device overflows and drains water from the hot tank.

[0041] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the pipeline structure of a drinking water device in one embodiment of this application; wherein the drinking water device drains water from the hot water tank;

[0042] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of a control method for a drinking water device in one embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of a control method for a drinking water device in another embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of a control method for a drinking water device in another embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 12 This is a flowchart of a control method for a drinking water device in another embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 13 This is a flowchart of a control method for a drinking water device in another embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 14 This is a flowchart of a control method for a drinking water device in another embodiment of this application.

[0048] Reference numerals: 1-Drinking device; 10-Outer shell; 20-Hot tank; 21-Second water level sensor; 30-Warm water pipeline; 31-Warm water tank; 31a-Pressure balance hole; 311-Ultraviolet sterilization device; 312-Filter membrane; 313-First water level sensor; 314-First water temperature sensor; 32-Warm water main pipe; 33-Warm water outlet valve; 34-First outlet; 35-Warm water branch; 36-Common warm water section; 361-Third control valve; 362-Pumping section; 363-Intermediate section; 37-Warm water outlet section; 40-First hot water pipeline; 41-First hot water outlet valve; 42-First hot water pipe; 50-Cold water pipeline; 51-Cold tank; 52-Cold water main pipe; 5 3-Cold water outlet valve; 54-Second outlet; 55-Cold water branch; 56-Common cold water section; 57-Cold water outlet section; 58-Three-way control valve; 581-First control valve; 582-Second control valve; 60-Second hot water pipeline; 61-Second hot water outlet valve; 62-Second hot water pipe; 70-Cold tank inlet pipe; 71-Fourth control valve; 80-Cold tank drain pipeline; 81-Cold tank drain pipe; 82-Fifth control valve; 90-Hot tank overflow pipeline; 91-Hot tank overflow pipe; 100-Hot tank drain pipeline; 101-Hot tank drain pipe; 102-Seventh control valve; 110-Filtration system; 111-Inlet; 120-Flow-through ultraviolet sterilization device; 130-Water pump. Detailed Implementation

[0049] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0050] This application provides a drinking water device, which typically includes water dispensers, water purifiers, campus water dispensers, etc. This application does not specifically limit the types of drinking water devices.

[0051] Please see Figures 1-3 The drinking water device 1 may include a housing 10, a heating tank 20, and a warm water pipe 30. Figures 3-8 The two hot tanks 20 shown are actually the same hot tank 20, just displayed from different angles.

[0052] Specifically, the outer casing 10 has an installation space (not shown in the figure), in which the hot water tank 20 and at least part of the warm water pipes 30 are installed, so that the outer casing 10 protects the hot water tank 20 and the warm water pipes 30. In this embodiment, the material used for the outer casing 10 is not specifically limited. For example, the material used for the outer casing 10 can be, but is not limited to, plastic and stainless steel. At the same time, the design of the outer casing 10 of the drinking device 1 also incorporates ergonomic principles to improve the user experience. For example, water dispensing buttons, power switches and other control components are designed on the outer casing 10 to make it easy for users to touch and operate, so that users can control the various functions of the drinking device 1 through the control components.

[0053] The hot tank 20 may include a hot tank shell (not shown) and a heater (not shown). The heater is disposed inside the hot tank shell and is used to heat the water entering the hot tank 20 to form hot water.

[0054] The warm water pipeline 30 includes a warm water tank 31, a warm water main pipe 32, a warm water outlet valve 33, and a first outlet 34 connected sequentially along the direction of warm water flow. It can be understood that the warm water tank 31 is used to store room temperature water, and the first outlet 34 is provided on the outer shell 10. The first outlet 34 is used to discharge the warm water in the warm water tank 31. That is, when warm water is taken out, the warm water flows out from the first outlet 34 through the warm water tank 31, the warm water main pipe 32, and the warm water outlet valve 33 in sequence for the user to drink.

[0055] Please see Figures 2-4 Furthermore, the warm water pipeline 30 also includes a warm water branch pipe 35 and a first control valve 581. One end of the warm water branch pipe 35 is connected to the warm water main pipe 32, and the other end of the warm water branch pipe 35 is connected to the hot water tank 20. The first control valve 581 is installed on the warm water branch pipe 35.

[0056] When warm water is used, the warm water outlet valve 33 is turned on and the first control valve 581 is turned off. At this time, warm water flows out from the warm water tank 31, the warm water main pipe 32, and the warm water outlet valve 33 in sequence from the first outlet 34.

[0057] When sterilizing the warm water pipe 30, the warm water outlet valve 33 is closed and the first control valve 581 is turned on. Hot water flows back from the hot water tank 20, the warm water branch pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32 to the warm water tank 31 in sequence to sterilize the warm water pipe 30.

[0058] It should be noted that when the hot water tank 20 needs to be replenished with water, the warm water outlet valve 33 is closed and the first control valve 581 is turned on. The warm water flows through the warm water tank 31, the warm water main pipe 32, and the warm water branch pipe 35 to replenish the hot water tank 20. That is, the warm water tank 31 and the hot water tank 20 can be connected through the warm water main pipe 32 and the warm water branch pipe 35. When the first control valve 581 is turned on, the warm water can replenish the hot water tank 20 through the warm water main pipe 32 and the warm water branch pipe 35. The hot water in the hot water tank 20 can also flow back to the warm water tank 31 through the warm water branch pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32 to achieve sterilization of the warm water pipeline 30.

[0059] Please continue reading. Figures 2-4 Furthermore, the connection between the warm water water pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32 is located between the hot water tank 20 and the warm water outlet valve 33. When sterilizing the warm water pipeline 30, hot water flows back from the warm water water pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32 to the warm water tank 31. The connection between the warm water water pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32 is located between the hot water tank 20 and the warm water outlet valve 33, which increases the area through which hot water flows through the warm water main pipe 32. This increases the sterilization area of ​​the warm water pipeline 30. At the same time, when hot water flows through the connection between the warm water water pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32, the hot water can sterilize the inlet of the warm water outlet valve 33.

[0060] In this embodiment of the application, when warm water is taken out, the warm water outlet valve 33 is turned on, the first control valve 581 is closed, and the warm water flows out from the warm water tank 31, the warm water main pipe 32, the warm water outlet valve 33 and the first outlet 34.

[0061] When replenishing water to the hot water tank 20, the warm water outlet valve 33 is closed and the first control valve 581 is open, allowing warm water to replenish the hot water tank 20 from the warm water tank 31, the warm water main pipe 32, and the warm water branch pipe 35. When sterilizing the warm water pipeline 30, the warm water outlet valve 33 is closed and the first control valve 581 is open, allowing hot water to flow back from the hot water tank 20, the warm water branch pipe 35, and the warm water main pipe 32 to the warm water tank 31. Therefore, in this embodiment, warm water is provided to the user through the warm water pipeline 30, and water is replenished to the hot water tank 20 through the warm water pipeline 30. The two share a pipeline, and based on this, the hot water in the hot water tank 20 can flow back to the warm water tank 31 along the warm water pipeline 30, thereby sterilizing the warm water pipeline 30, reducing the amount of bacteria in the warm water pipeline 30, and making the user's drinking water healthier.

[0062] Please continue reading. Figures 2-4 In some embodiments, the warm water main pipe 32 can be divided into a common warm water section 36 and a warm water outlet section 37, with the connection point between the warm water water branch 35 and the warm water main pipe 32 as the boundary. The common warm water section 36 is connected to the warm water tank 31, and the warm water outlet section 37 is connected to the warm water outlet valve 33. It can be understood that when warm water is used, the warm water flows sequentially from the warm water tank 31, the common warm water section 36, and the warm water outlet section 37 to the warm water outlet valve 33. When the warm water outlet valve 33 is turned on, the warm water flows out from the first outlet 34 for the user's use. When the warm water pipeline 30 is sterilized, the warm water outlet valve 33 is closed, the first control valve 581 is turned on, and the hot water flows back to the warm water tank 31 sequentially through the warm water branch 35 and the common warm water section 36 to sterilize the warm water branch 35 and the common warm water section 36, thereby reducing the amount of bacteria in the warm water pipeline 30.

[0063] Please see Figure 5 In some embodiments, the drinking water device 1 further includes a first hot water pipeline 40, which includes a first hot water outlet valve 41 and a first hot water pipe 42. The first hot water outlet valve 41 is connected to the first water outlet 34, one end of the first hot water pipe 42 is connected to the first hot water outlet valve 41, and the other end of the first hot water pipe 42 is connected to the hot water tank 20.

[0064] When hot water is used, the first hot water outlet valve 41 is open, and the warm water outlet valve 33 is closed. Hot water flows out sequentially from the hot water tank 20, the first hot water pipe 42, the first hot water outlet valve 41, and the first outlet 34. At this time, the hot water flows through the first hot water outlet valve 41 to sterilize it. Furthermore, the first outlet 34 can be used for both warm and hot water. When the user takes warm water from the first outlet 34, a small amount of warm water will remain in the first outlet 34. This small amount of warm water is exposed to the air for a long time, which can easily cause bacteria to grow in the first outlet 34, resulting in a large amount of bacteria at the first outlet 34. Therefore, by setting the first outlet 34 to be shared by both warm and hot water, the user can indirectly take hot water from the first outlet 34 to sterilize the first outlet 34, thereby reducing the amount of bacteria in the first outlet 34.

[0065] Please see Figure 3 Furthermore, in some embodiments, the drinking water device 1 further includes a cold water pipeline 50, which includes a cold tank 51, a cold water main pipe 52, a cold water outlet valve 53, and a second outlet 54 connected sequentially along the direction of cold water flow. The cold tank 51 is used to cool the water. The cold tank 51 can be an electronic ice tank or other refrigeration equipment. This application embodiment does not specifically limit the type of cold tank 51. The second outlet 54 is provided on the outer shell 10. The second outlet 54 is used to discharge the cold water in the cold tank 51. That is, when cold water is taken out, the cold water flows out from the second outlet 54 sequentially through the cold tank 51, the cold water main pipe 52, and the cold water outlet valve 53, so that it is convenient for the user to drink. When the cold water in the cold tank 51 is low, the cold tank 51 is also connected to the warm water tank 31 so that the water in the warm water tank 31 can replenish the cold tank 51.

[0066] Furthermore, the cold water pipeline 50 also includes a cold water branch pipe 55 and a second control valve 582. One end of the cold water branch pipe 55 is connected to the main cold water pipe 52, and the other end of the cold water branch pipe 55 is connected to the hot water tank 20. The second control valve 582 is installed on the cold water branch pipe 55.

[0067] When cold water is used, the cold water outlet valve 53 is turned on and the second control valve 582 is turned off. At this time, cold water flows out sequentially from the cold tank 51, the cold water main pipe 52, the cold water outlet valve 53 and the second outlet 54.

[0068] When sterilizing the cold water pipe 50, the cold water outlet valve 53 is closed and the second control valve 582 is turned on. The hot water formed in the hot tank 20 flows back from the hot tank 20, the cold water pipe 55 and the cold water main pipe 52 to the warm water tank 31 in sequence to sterilize the cold water pipe 50, reduce the amount of bacteria in the cold water pipe 50 and make the user's drinking water healthier.

[0069] Please continue reading. Figure 3 In some embodiments, the cold water main pipe 52 can be divided into a cold water common section 56 and a cold water outlet section 57, with the connection point between the cold water water pipe 55 and the cold water main pipe 52 as the boundary.

[0070] Specifically, the cold water common section 56 is connected to the cold water tank 51, and the cold water outlet section 57 is connected to the cold water outlet valve 53. It can be understood that when cold water is used, it flows sequentially through the cold water tank 51, the cold water common section 56, and the cold water outlet section 57 before flowing to the cold water outlet valve 53. When the cold water outlet valve 53 is open, cold water flows out from the second outlet 54. When sterilizing the cold water pipeline 50, the cold water outlet valve 53 is closed, and the second control valve 582 is open. The cold water flows sequentially through the cold water branch 55 and the cold water common section 56 back into the cold water tank 51 to sterilize the cold water branch 55, the cold water common section 56, and the cold water tank 51. This reduces the amount of bacteria in the cold water pipeline 50, making the user's drinking water healthier.

[0071] Please continue reading. Figure 3 In some embodiments, the connection between the warm water branch pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32 is adjacent to the warm water outlet valve 33. Thus, when sterilizing the warm water pipeline 30, hot water flows back from the warm water branch pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32 to the warm water tank 31, and the connection between the warm water branch pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32 is closer to the warm water outlet valve 33. This increases the sterilization area of ​​the warm water pipeline 30. At the same time, when hot water flows through the connection between the warm water branch pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32, the hot water can sterilize the inlet of the warm water outlet valve 33.

[0072] Please continue reading. Figure 3 In some other embodiments, the connection between the cold water pipe 55 and the cold water main pipe 52 is adjacent to the cold water outlet valve 53. Thus, when sterilizing the cold water pipeline 50, hot water flows back from the cold water pipe 55 and the cold water main pipe 52 into the cold tank 51, and the connection between the cold water pipe 55 and the cold water main pipe 52 is closer to the cold water outlet valve 53. This increases the sterilization area of ​​the cold water pipeline 50. At the same time, when hot water flows through the connection between the cold water pipe 55 and the cold water main pipe 52, the hot water can sterilize the inlet of the cold water outlet valve 53.

[0073] Please continue reading. Figure 3In some other embodiments, the connection between the warm water pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32 is near the warm water outlet valve 33, and the connection between the cold water pipe 55 and the cold water main pipe 52 is also near the cold water outlet valve 53. In this case, when the first control valve 581 is turned on, the hot water in the hot tank 20 flows back from the warm water pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32 to the warm water tank 31 to sterilize the warm water pipeline 30. When the second control valve 582 is turned on, the hot water in the hot tank 20 flows back from the cold water pipe 55 and the cold water main pipe 52 to the cold tank 51 to sterilize the cold water pipeline 50. Furthermore, the connection between the warm water pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32 is closer to the warm water outlet valve 33, and the connection between the cold water pipe 55 and the cold water main pipe 52 is also near the cold water outlet valve 53. In this way, the sterilization area of ​​the pipeline of the drinking water device is increased.

[0074] Please continue reading. Figure 3 In some embodiments, both the hot tank 20 and the cold tank 51 are higher than the warm water tank 31. That is, in the height direction AA of the drinking device 1, both the hot tank 20 and the cold tank 51 are higher than the warm water tank 31 to reduce the width of the drinking device 1 in the width direction BB. However, since both the hot tank 20 and the cold tank 51 are higher than the warm water tank 31, the warm water in the warm water tank 31 is difficult to flow directly to the first outlet 34 through the warm water pipe 30 and to the second outlet 54 through the cold water pipe 50.

[0075] Please continue reading. Figure 3 Therefore, a third control valve 361 is installed on the shared warm water section 36. When warm water is needed, the third control valve 361 is opened, and warm water flows out from the warm water tank 31, the warm water main pipe 32, the warm water outlet valve 33, and the first outlet 34. The shared warm water section 36 can be divided into a pumping section 362 and an intermediate section 363 by the third control valve 361. The intermediate section 363 is connected to the warm water water pipe 35, and the pumping section 362 is connected to the warm water tank 31. A water pump 130 is installed on the pumping section 362, and the water pump 130 has a water inlet and a outlet. The water inlet and the water pump 130 use a mechanical device to make the diaphragm inside the pump reciprocate, thereby compressing the air in the pump chamber to form a vacuum, or stretching the air in the pump chamber to form a negative pressure. When a pressure difference is generated between the water inlet and the external atmospheric pressure, the water pump 130 can press the warm water in the warm water tank 31 from the water inlet into the pump chamber under the action of the pressure difference, and then pump it out from the drain outlet through the reciprocating motion of the water pump 130. That is, when the water pump 130 is working, the warm water can be pumped to the warm water common section 36 and the warm water outlet section 37.

[0076] It should be noted that both the hot tank 20 and the cold tank 51 are higher than the warm water tank 31. When sterilizing the warm water pipe 30 and the cold water pipe 50, the hot water in the hot tank 20 can flow back into the warm water tank 31 under the action of gravity.

[0077] Please continue reading. Figure 3Furthermore, the drinking water device 1 also includes a cold tank inlet pipe 70. One end of the cold tank inlet pipe 70 is connected to the cold tank 51, and the other end of the cold tank inlet pipe 70 is connected to the warm water tank 31 through the pumping section 362. That is, the warm water in the warm water tank 31 is pumped into the pumping section 362 under the action of the pumping pump 130. A fourth control valve 71 is provided on the cold tank inlet pipe 70. When the fourth control valve 71 is turned on, the pumping section 362 is connected to the cold tank inlet pipe 70 so that the warm water tank 31 replenishes water to the cold tank 51 through the pumping section 362 and the cold tank inlet pipe 70.

[0078] It should be noted that the hot tank 20 can also be connected to the warm water tank 31 via the cold tank 51. The warm water in the warm water tank 31 is replenished to the hot tank 20 sequentially through the pumping section 362, the cold tank drain pipe 81, the cold tank 51, the cold water main pipe 52, and the cold water branch pipe 55. That is, in this embodiment, cold water is provided to the user through the cold water pipe 50 and the cold tank inlet pipe 70, and the hot tank 20 is replenished through the cold water pipe 50 and the cold tank inlet pipe 70. The two share a common pipeline. Based on this, the hot water in the hot tank 20 can flow back to the warm water tank 31 along the cold water pipe 50 and the cold tank inlet pipe 70, thereby sterilizing the cold water pipe 50 and the cold tank inlet pipe 70, reducing the amount of bacteria in the cold water pipe 50 and the cold tank inlet pipe 70, making the user's drinking water healthier.

[0079] Please continue reading. Figure 3 Since the hot water tank 20 is higher than the warm water tank 31, in some other embodiments, a first water pump is provided on the warm water main pipe 32. The first water pump can pump water from the warm water tank 31 and flow through the warm water main pipe 32 and the warm water branch pipe 35 to replenish the hot water tank 20.

[0080] In some other embodiments, the cold tank 51 is higher than the warm water tank 31, and a second water pump is provided on the cold tank inlet pipe 70. The second water pump can pump water from the warm water tank 31 and flow through the cold tank inlet pipe 70 to replenish the cold tank 51.

[0081] It should be noted that the first water pump and the second water pump can be the same water pump 130. In this case, the water pump 130 is set on the water pumping section 362 to improve the pumping efficiency of water in the warm water tank 31 to the cold tank 51 or the hot tank 20.

[0082] Please continue reading. Figure 3 In some embodiments, the drinking water device 1 further includes a water inlet 111 and a filtration system 110. The water inlet 111 is provided on the outer casing 10 to facilitate the connection of raw water. The water inlet 111 is connected to the filtration system 110. After the raw water is filtered by the filtration system 110, the filtered water is supplied into the warm water tank 31 to replenish the warm water tank 31.

[0083] Furthermore, the cold tank inlet pipe 70 can be directly connected to the filtration system 110, so that the filtered water can be directly replenished to the cold tank 51 through the cold tank inlet pipe 70.

[0084] Please continue reading. Figure 3 In some embodiments, the warm water tank 31 has a pressure balancing hole 31, which connects the inner cavity of the water tank to the outside. A filter membrane 312 is provided at the pressure balancing hole 31, that is, the filter membrane 312 can cover the pressure balancing hole 31. In this way, on the one hand, the filter membrane 312 allows gas molecules to pass through freely, so that the air pressure inside the warm water tank 31 is the same as the outside air pressure, which is conducive to ensuring the stability of the air pressure inside the warm water tank 31. On the other hand, the filter membrane 312 can filter bacteria to prevent airborne bacteria from entering the warm water tank 31. The area of ​​the filter membrane 312 is actually set according to the area of ​​the pressure balancing hole 31, and the area of ​​the filter membrane 312 is usually larger than the area of ​​the pressure balancing hole 31 in order to cover the pressure balancing hole 31.

[0085] Please continue reading. Figure 2 In some embodiments, an ultraviolet sterilization device 311 is provided inside the warm water tank 31. For example, the ultraviolet sterilization device 311 can be installed on the bottom plate of the warm water tank 31 or on the side wall of the warm water tank 31. The ultraviolet sterilization device 311 can be an ultraviolet sterilization lamp or other ultraviolet sterilization device. This application embodiment does not specifically limit this.

[0086] For example, when the ultraviolet sterilization device 311 is an ultraviolet germicidal lamp, the ultraviolet germicidal lamp emits ultraviolet light when it is working, which sterilizes the warm water in the warm water tank 31. In this embodiment, the ultraviolet germicidal lamp can be designed to work intermittently. It can be understood that, with a 2-hour cycle, the ultraviolet germicidal lamp works for 40 minutes to sterilize the warm water in the warm water tank 31. After working for 40 minutes, the ultraviolet germicidal lamp is turned off for 140 minutes. In this way, on the one hand, the ultraviolet sterilization device 311 can sterilize the warm water in the warm water tank 31; on the other hand, the service life of the ultraviolet germicidal lamp can be extended.

[0087] Please continue reading. Figure 3 In some embodiments, a flow-through ultraviolet sterilization device 120 is provided on the warm water main pipe 32 and the cold water main pipe 52. Alternatively, both the warm water main pipe 32 and the cold water main pipe 52 are provided with flow-through ultraviolet sterilization devices 120. This application does not specifically limit this embodiment. The flow-through ultraviolet sterilization device 120 can be a flow-through ultraviolet sterilization lamp.

[0088] For example, both the warm water main pipe 32 and the cold water main pipe 52 are equipped with a flow-through ultraviolet sterilization device 120. When warm water flows through the warm water main pipe 32, the flow-through ultraviolet sterilization lamp works and emits ultraviolet light, which sterilizes the warm water in the warm water main pipe 32 through ultraviolet light. When cold water flows through the cold water main pipe 52, the flow-through ultraviolet sterilization lamp works and emits ultraviolet light, which sterilizes the cold water in the cold water main pipe 52 through ultraviolet light.

[0089] Please continue reading. Figure 3 In some embodiments, the warm water tank 31 is equipped with an ultraviolet sterilization device 311, and both the warm water main pipe 32 and the cold water main pipe 52 are equipped with an overflow ultraviolet sterilization device 120.

[0090] Specifically, when taking warm water, the ultraviolet sterilization device 311 in the warm water tank 31 sterilizes the warm water, and the warm water flows into the warm water main pipe 32. The flow-through ultraviolet sterilization device 120 on the warm water main pipe 32 is opened to further kill the bacteria remaining in the warm water tank 31. When taking cold water, the ultraviolet sterilization device 311 in the warm water tank 31 sterilizes the warm water, and the warm water flows from the pumping section 362 to the cold tank inlet pipe 70, the cold tank 51, and the cold water main pipe 52. The flow-through ultraviolet sterilization device 120 on the cold water main pipe 52 is opened to further kill the bacteria remaining in the warm water tank 31. That is, the warm water or cold water taken by the user has undergone double sterilization, thereby reducing the amount of bacteria in the pipeline of the drinking water device 1.

[0091] It should be noted that when sterilizing the warm water pipe 30 or the cold water pipe 50, the flow-through ultraviolet sterilization device 120 on the warm water pipe 30 and the cold water pipe 50 is turned off in order to extend the service life of the flow-through ultraviolet sterilization device 120.

[0092] In some embodiments, the first water outlet 34 and the second water outlet 54 may be the same water outlet, or the first water outlet 34 and the second water outlet 54 may be different water outlets. This application embodiment does not specifically limit this.

[0093] When the first water outlet 34 and the second water outlet 54 are the same water outlet, warm water, cold water and hot water all flow out from the same water outlet, thus saving the manufacturing cost of the drinking water device 1.

[0094] Please see Figure 5 When the first water outlet 34 and the second water outlet 54 are different water outlets, the drinking water device 1 also includes a second hot water pipeline 60. The second hot water pipeline 60 includes a second hot water outlet valve 61 and a second hot water pipe 62. One end of the second hot water pipe 62 is connected to the second hot water outlet valve 61, and the other end of the second hot water pipe 62 is connected to the hot water tank 20.

[0095] When hot water is used, the second hot water outlet valve 61 is open, and the cold water outlet valve 53 is closed. Hot water flows out sequentially from the hot water tank 20, the second hot water pipe 62, the second hot water outlet valve 61, and the second outlet 54. At this time, the hot water flows through the second hot water outlet valve 61, which sterilizes the valve. Furthermore, the second outlet 54 can be used for both cold and hot water. When the user takes cold water from the second outlet 54, a small amount of cold water will remain in the outlet. This small amount of cold water is exposed to the air for a long time, which can cause bacteria to grow in the outlet, resulting in a large number of bacteria at the outlet. Therefore, by setting the second outlet 54 to be shared by both cold and hot water, the user can indirectly take hot water from the outlet, which sterilizes the outlet and reduces the amount of bacteria in it.

[0096] Please continue reading. Figure 5 In some embodiments, the first control valve 581 and the second control valve 582 are integrally formed as a three-way control valve 58, or the first control valve 581 and the second control valve 582 are different control valves. This application does not specifically limit this aspect.

[0097] For example, when the first control valve 581 and the second control valve 582 are integrated into a three-way control valve 58, the three-way control valve 58 is installed on both the warm water pipe 35 and the cold water pipe 55. By controlling the opening and closing of the three-way control valve 58, hot water can be returned to at least one of the warm water pipe 35 or the cold water pipe 55. Furthermore, by providing a three-way control valve 58, the manufacturing cost of the drinking water device 1 can be saved.

[0098] For example, the first control valve 581 and the second control valve 582 are different control valves. When the hot tank 20 is replenished with water through the warm water pipeline 30, the first control valve 581 is turned on, and warm water is replenished to the hot tank 20 from the warm water tank 31, the warm water main pipe 32, the warm water branch pipe 35 and the first control valve 581. When the hot tank 20 is replenished with water through the cold water pipeline 50, the second control valve 582 is turned on, and cold water is replenished to the hot tank 20 from the cold tank 51, the cold water main pipe 52, the cold water branch pipe 55 and the second control valve 582, so as to avoid the mixing of warm water and cold water.

[0099] In some embodiments, the cold tank 51 has a cavity inside to store cold water. When the cold water pipeline 50 is sterilized, the second control valve 582 is turned on, and hot water flows back to the cold tank 51 through the cold water branch 55 and the cold water main 52 multiple times. At this time, the water stored in the cold tank 51 is hot water. When the user needs to take cold water after the cold water pipeline 50 has been sterilized, the cold tank 51 fails to cool the hot water in time, so that the water flowing out of the second outlet 54 is hot water, which may easily cause the user to be scalded.

[0100] Please see Figure 6 Therefore, the drinking water device 1 also includes a cold tank drain pipe 80, which may include a cold tank drain pipe 81 and a fifth control valve 82. One end of the cold tank drain pipe 81 is connected to the cold tank 51, and the other end of the cold tank drain pipe 81 is connected to the warm water tank 31. When hot water is present in the cold tank 51, the fifth control valve 82 is turned on, and the hot water in the cold tank 51 flows back to the warm water tank 31 through the cold tank drain pipe 81. In this way, the hot water in the cold tank 51 is discharged on the one hand, and the hot water can sterilize the cold tank drain pipe 81 on the other hand.

[0101] In some embodiments, since the capacity of the hot water tank 20 for storing hot water is limited, the drinking water device 1 also includes a hot water tank overflow pipe 90 to prevent hot water from overflowing from the hot water tank 20.

[0102] Please see Figure 7 The hot water tank overflow pipe 90 includes a hot water tank overflow pipe 91. One end of the hot water tank overflow pipe 91 is connected to the hot water tank 20, and the other end of the hot water tank overflow pipe 91 is connected to the warm water tank 31. When the hot water in the hot water tank 20 rises to the overflow position of the hot water tank overflow pipe 91, the hot water in the hot water tank 20 can flow back to the warm water tank 31 through the hot water tank overflow pipe 91 to avoid the hot water in the hot water tank 20 overflowing. In this way, the safety of the drinking water device 1 is improved.

[0103] Furthermore, the hot water tank overflow pipe 90 may also include a sixth control valve, which is installed on the hot water tank overflow pipe 91. That is, when it is necessary to keep the hot water in the hot water tank 20 at a high water level, the sixth control valve is closed so that the hot water in the hot water tank 20 will not flow back into the warm water tank 31 through the hot water tank overflow pipe 91; when the hot water in the hot water tank 20 is about to overflow, the sixth control valve is opened, and the hot water in the hot water tank 20 can flow back into the warm water tank 31 through the hot water tank overflow pipe 91 to avoid the hot water in the hot water tank 20 overflowing, thus improving the safety of the drinking water device 1.

[0104] It should be noted that the cold tank drain pipe 81 and the hot tank overflow pipe 91 can share some pipelines. In this case, the two ends of the hot tank overflow pipe 91 are connected to the cold tank drain pipe 81 and the hot tank 20 respectively, so as to increase the shared pipelines and reduce the manufacturing cost of the drinking water device 1.

[0105] Please see Figure 8 Furthermore, in some embodiments, the water drinking device 1 also includes a hot tank drain pipe 100, which includes a hot tank drain pipe 101 and a seventh control valve 102. The hot tank drain pipe 101 is connected to the hot tank 20. When the seventh control valve 102 is turned on, the hot water in the hot tank 20 can be discharged to the outside of the water drinking device 1 through the hot tank drain pipe 101.

[0106] Please see Figure 8 In some embodiments, the warm water tank 31 has a first water level detection element 313 and a first water temperature detection element 314. The first water level detection element 313 can detect the water level in the warm water tank 31, so that when the water level in the warm water tank 31 is lower than the high water level, the filtration system 110 can be controlled to replenish water to the warm water tank 31, so that the warm water tank 31 can maintain a high water level, thereby improving the water output efficiency of the warm water tank 31 and thus improving the user's water intake efficiency. For example, the first water level detection element 313 includes at least one of a float-type water level switch, a pressure-type water level sensor, an ultrasonic water level sensor, a radar water level gauge, a photoelectric water level sensor, a capacitive water level sensor, a guided wave radar water level gauge, and a probe water level sensor. The first water temperature detection element 314 may include at least one of an immersion thermometer, a Pt100 platinum resistance temperature sensor, an electronic temperature sensor, an infrared thermometer, and a Cu50 copper resistance temperature sensor. In this embodiment, the specific form of the first water level detection element 313 and the first water temperature detection element 314 is not limited.

[0107] In one specific embodiment, the first water level detection element 313 may include a low water level probe and a high water level probe. During the process of the filtration system 110 replenishing water to the warm water tank 31, when the high water level probe in the warm water tank 31 detects a high water level, the filtration system 110 is controlled to stop replenishing water to the warm water tank 31 to prevent water from overflowing. During the process of the water pump 130 pumping water from the warm water tank 31, after the water in the warm water tank 31 has dropped from the high water level for a certain period of time, the water pump 130 is controlled to stop pumping water, and the filtration system 110 is controlled to replenish water to the warm water tank 31 until the water in the warm water tank 31 returns to the high water level. For example, the pumping time can be 30 seconds, 1 minute, 1 minute 30 seconds, 2 minutes, 2 minutes 30 seconds, etc.

[0108] Please see Figure 8In some embodiments, the hot water tank 20 has a second water level detection element 21 and a second water temperature detection element (not shown in the figure). The second water level detection element 21 can detect the water level in the hot water tank 20, so that when the water level in the hot water tank 20 is lower than the high water level, the hot water tank 31 can be controlled to replenish water to the hot water tank 20, so that the water level in the hot water tank 20 is maintained at a high water level, thereby improving the water output efficiency of the hot water tank 20 and thus improving the user's water access efficiency. The second water temperature detection element can detect the temperature in the hot water tank 20, so that the drinking water device 1 can heat the water in the hot water tank 20, thereby facilitating the user to access hot water. Exemplarily, the second water level detection element 21 includes at least one of a float-type water level switch, a pressure-type water level sensor, an ultrasonic water level sensor, a radar water level gauge, a photoelectric water level sensor, a capacitive water level sensor, a guided wave radar water level gauge, and a probe water level sensor. The second water temperature detection element may include at least one of an immersion thermometer, a Pt100 platinum resistance temperature sensor, an electronic temperature sensor, an infrared thermometer, and a Cu50 copper resistance temperature sensor. In this embodiment of the application, there are no restrictions on the specific form of the first water level detection element 313 and the second water temperature detection element.

[0109] In one specific embodiment, the second water level detection element 21 may include a low water level probe, a medium water level probe, a high water level probe, and an overflow water level probe. When the medium water level probe detects that the water level in the hot water tank 20 has dropped below the medium water level, the drinking water device 1 controls the warm water outlet valve 33 to close and controls the first control valve 581 and the third control valve 361 to open, controlling the water pump 130 to draw warm water from the warm water tank 31, which enters the hot water tank 20 through the warm water main pipe 32 and the warm water branch pipe 35, until the high water level probe detects that the water in the hot water tank 20 is at a high water level. This can improve the efficiency of hot water access for users and prevent the hot water tank 20 from burning dry, thereby reducing the probability of damage to the hot water tank 20 and enabling the hot water tank 20 to have a longer service life, thus enabling the drinking water device 1 to have a longer service life.

[0110] Please see Figure 4 as well as Figure 9 This application also provides a control method for a drinking water device 1, the control method including:

[0111] Step S10: When the water drinking device 1 meets the preset conditions, control the water drinking device 1 to heat the water in the hot tank 20 to the first preset temperature.

[0112] In this embodiment of the application, when the water drinking device 1 meets the preset conditions, the main controller supplies power to the heater in the hot tank 20 so that the heater heats the water in the hot tank 20 until the water in the hot tank 20 is heated to a first preset temperature. Specifically, the first preset temperature can be 90°C, 91°C, 92°C, 93°C, 95°C, etc.

[0113] Understandably, the preset condition can be that the current time reaches a preset time, and no water withdrawal operation is detected within a preset sterilization period after the preset time. Specifically, the preset time can be at least one of 2:00 AM, 3:00 AM, 4:00 AM, and 5:00 AM, so that the sterilization of the cold water pipe 50 can be carried out during times with few user usage. Furthermore, if a user's water withdrawal operation is detected within the preset sterilization period after the preset time, the user's water withdrawal operation can be detected within the preset sterilization period after the next preset time, thereby ensuring that the sterilization operation of the cold water pipe 50 is performed once a day, providing reliable protection for the user's drinking water health. For example, the preset sterilization period can be 30 minutes, 40 minutes, or 50 minutes.

[0114] It is understandable that the preset condition can be that the current time reaches the preset time, and no water dispensing operation is detected within the preset sterilization time before the preset time. When the preset time is reached, the water drinking device 1 can be controlled to heat the water in the hot tank 20 to the first preset temperature.

[0115] It is understood that the preset condition can also be that the water dispenser 1 receives a manually triggered sterilization command. Specifically, the manually triggered sterilization command can be sent by the operator through the operation button on the water dispenser 1 or by a device connected to the water dispenser 1. For example, the device connected to the water dispenser 1 can be at least one of a smartphone, tablet, smart speaker, control panel, smart switch, and wearable device.

[0116] Understandably, when the preset condition is that the current time reaches the preset time, and no water dispensing operation is detected within the preset sterilization time after the preset time, in order to avoid the water level in the hot tank 20 and the warm water tank 31 being higher than the high water level due to the water drinking device 1 receiving a manually triggered sterilization command in the previous short period of time, the water level in the hot tank 20 and the warm water tank 31 can be adjusted through the hot tank drain pipe 100 to prevent the water in the warm water tank 31 from overflowing when the hot water in the hot tank 20 flows to the warm water tank 31 through the cold water pipe 50.

[0117] Step 20: Control the hot water pipe 50 to deliver hot water from the self-heating tank to the hot water tank 31 in order to sterilize the hot water pipe 20.

[0118] In this embodiment, the warm water outlet valve 33 is closed, and the first control valve 581 and the third control valve 361 are opened. Hot water flows sequentially from the hot water tank 20, the warm water water pipe 35, and the warm water main pipe 32 to the warm water tank 31 to sterilize the warm water water pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32.

[0119] Furthermore, the hot water from the heating tank 20 flows to the warm water tank 31 via the warm water branch pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32 for a first preset time, ensuring that the water temperature in both the warm water branch pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32 is higher than a second preset temperature. This enhances the sterilization effect of the hot water on the warm water branch pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32, providing health protection for users' drinking warm water. The second preset time can be 10 seconds, 15 seconds, 20 seconds, 25 seconds, or 30 seconds, and the second preset temperature can be 80℃, 81℃, 82℃, 83℃, 85℃, etc. In other embodiments, the second preset time can also be other durations to adapt to the length of the warm water pipe 30 and sterilization requirements.

[0120] Please see Figure 10 In one specific embodiment, after step 20, the method further includes:

[0121] Step 30: Control the cold water pipeline 50 to deliver hot water from the heating tank 20 to the cold tank 51 to sterilize the cold water pipeline 50.

[0122] In this embodiment, the cold water outlet valve 53 is closed, and the second control valve 582 is opened. Hot water flows back from the hot tank 20, the cold water pipe 55, and the cold water main pipe 52 to the cold tank 51 in sequence, so that the hot water can sterilize the cold water pipe 55 and the cold water main pipe 52, thereby providing health protection for users.

[0123] Furthermore, hot water flows sequentially from the hot water tank 20, the cold water pipe 55, and the cold water main pipe 52 to the cold water tank 51 for a second preset duration. This ensures that the water temperature in the cold water pipe 55, the cold water main pipe 52, and the cold water tank 51 is higher than the second preset temperature and remains at that temperature for a longer period, thereby improving the sterilization effect of the hot water on the cold water pipe 55, the cold water main pipe 52, and the cold water tank 51. The second preset duration can be 55 seconds, 60 seconds, 65 seconds, 70 seconds, 75 seconds, 80 seconds, and 85 seconds, and the second preset temperature can be 80℃, 81℃, 82℃, 83℃, 85℃, etc. In other embodiments, the second preset duration and temperature can also be other durations and temperatures to suit the length of the cold water pipe 50 and the sterilization requirements.

[0124] Please see Figure 4 as well as Figure 11 In one specific embodiment, step S30 further includes:

[0125] Step S31: Control the cold water pipeline 50 and the self-heating tank 20 to deliver hot water to the warm water tank 21 via the cold tank 51, so as to sterilize the cold water pipeline 50, the cold tank inlet pipe 70 and the pumping section 362.

[0126] In this embodiment, when the user opens the cold water outlet valve 53, the water in the warm water tank 31 enters the cold tank 51 for cooling through the pumping section 362 and the cold tank inlet pipe 70, and then flows out through the cold water common section 56, the cold water outlet section 57 and the second outlet 54. Therefore, when using hot water to sterilize the cold water pipeline 50, the fourth control valve 71 can be opened, and the hot water continues to flow back from the cold tank 51 to the warm water tank 31 through the cold tank inlet pipe 70 and the pumping section 362 to sterilize the cold water pipeline 50, the cold tank inlet pipe 70 and the pumping section 362 with hot water.

[0127] Furthermore, the hot water from the hot water tank 20 flows to the warm water tank 31 via the cold water pipe 50 for a second preset time, so that the water temperature in the cold water pipe 50 is higher than the second preset temperature, thereby improving the sterilization effect of the hot water on the cold water pipe 50 and providing health protection for users.

[0128] Please see Figure 12 In one specific embodiment, before step S30, the method further includes:

[0129] Step S40: Control the warm water pipe 30 or the cold water pipe 50 to replenish water from the warm water tank 31 to the hot water tank 20, and control the drinking water device 1 to heat the water in the hot water tank 20 to the first preset temperature.

[0130] In this embodiment, after the hot water in the hot tank 20 flows to the warm water tank 31 via the cold water pipe 50, when the second water level detector 21 detects that the water level in the hot tank 20 is lower than the first preset water level, it controls the warm water outlet valve 33 to close, and controls the first control valve 581 and the third control valve 361 to open. It also controls the water pump 130 to draw water from the warm water tank 31 through the warm water main pipe 32 and the warm water branch pipe 35 into the hot tank 20 until the second water level detector 21 detects that the water in the hot tank 20 is at a high water level. Then, it controls the drinking water device 1 to heat the water in the hot tank 20 to a preset temperature to ensure that there is enough hot water in the hot tank 20 when hot water sterilization is performed on the warm water branch pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32, thereby improving the sterilization effect of hot water on the warm water branch pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32. It can be understood that the first preset water level is the water level detected by the water level probe in the hot tank 20.

[0131] In other embodiments, when the second water level detector 21 detects that the water level in the hot water tank 20 is lower than the first preset water level, it controls the cold water outlet valve 53 to close, and controls the second control valve 582 and the fourth control valve 71 to open. It also controls the water pump 130 to draw water from the warm water tank 31 into the hot water tank 20 through the cold water pipeline 50 until the second water level detector 21 detects that the water level in the hot water tank 20 is high. Then, it controls the drinking water device 1 to heat the water in the hot water tank 20 to the preset temperature, which can also make the hot water tank 20 have enough hot water, thereby improving the sterilization effect of the hot water on the warm water pipe 35 and the warm water main pipe 32.

[0132] It is understandable that step S30 can also be performed before step S20, and step S40 can be performed before step S20. This can be done by first controlling the hot water to sterilize the warm water pipe 30, then controlling the water in the warm water tank 31 to flow to the hot water tank 20 through the warm water pipe 30 or the cold water pipe 50, and controlling the water drinking device 1 to heat the water in the hot water tank 20 to the preset temperature. Finally, controlling the hot water to sterilize the cold water pipe 50 can achieve the purpose of sterilizing the hot water in the pipes of the water drinking device 1, so as to provide reliable protection for the user's health.

[0133] Please see Figure 6 as well as Figure 13 In one specific embodiment, after step S30, the method further includes:

[0134] Step S50: Control the cold tank drain pipe 80 to deliver water from the cold tank 51 to the warm water tank 31.

[0135] In this embodiment, the fifth control valve 82 is opened so that the water in the cold tank 51 flows back to the warm water tank 31 through the cold tank drain pipe 80. This prevents the residual hot water in the cold tank 51 from flowing out through the cold water main pipe 52 and the cold water outlet valve 53 when the user takes cold water from the second water outlet 54, thereby reducing the probability of scalding the user and providing reliable protection for the user's health.

[0136] Please see Figure 3 as well as Figure 14 In one specific embodiment, after step S50, the method further includes:

[0137] Step S60: Control the ultraviolet sterilization device 311 to start the preset sterilization time.

[0138] In this embodiment, the ultraviolet sterilization device 311 is controlled to sterilize the water in the warm water tank 31 for a preset sterilization time, thereby ensuring that the water flowing from the warm water tank 31 to the cold tank 51 and the hot tank 20 is sterilized water, providing a reliable guarantee for improving the health of users.

[0139] Step S70: Control the cold water pipeline 50 to supply water from the warm water tank 31 to the cold tank 51 and the hot tank 20; or, control the warm water pipeline 30 to supply water from the warm water tank 31 to the hot tank 20, and control the cold water pipeline 50 to supply water from the warm water tank 31 to the cold tank 51.

[0140] In this embodiment, after sterilizing the warm water tank 31, the cold water outlet valve 53 is closed and the fourth control valve 71 is opened. The water pump 130 is controlled to draw water from the warm water tank 31 and flow through the cold water pipeline 50 to the cold tank 51 and the hot tank 20 to replenish the cold tank 51 and the hot tank 20. The cold tank 51 and the hot tank 20 are controlled to cool and heat the water inside them. This allows the drinking water device 1 to directly dispense cold water from the second outlet 54 when the user takes cold water, and to directly dispense hot water from the first outlet 34 and the second outlet 54 when the user takes hot water, thereby reducing the user's waiting time and improving the user's water dispensing efficiency.

[0141] In another specific embodiment, the water in the warm water tank 31 can be controlled to flow to the hot tank 20 via the warm water pipe 30, and the water in the warm water tank 31 can be controlled to flow to the cold tank 51 via the cold water pipe 50, so as to replenish the hot tank 20 and the cold tank 51 respectively. This can reduce the user's waiting time and improve the user's water collection efficiency when the user takes cold water and hot water.

[0142] In the accompanying drawings of this embodiment, the same or similar reference numerals correspond to the same or similar components. In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," "right," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, they are only for the convenience of describing this application 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, the terms used to describe positional relationships in the drawings are only for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting this application. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0143] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A drinking water device, characterized in that, include: Hot pot; as well as, The warm water pipeline includes a warm water tank, a warm water main, a warm water outlet valve, and a first outlet connected sequentially along the direction of warm water flow; the warm water pipeline also includes a warm water branch pipe connected at both ends to the warm water main and the hot water tank respectively, and a first control valve disposed on the warm water branch pipe, wherein the connection between the warm water branch pipe and the warm water main is disposed between the hot water tank and the warm water outlet valve. When warm water is used, the warm water outlet valve is turned on and the first control valve is turned off, and warm water flows out sequentially from the warm water tank, the warm water main pipe, the warm water outlet valve, and the first outlet. When the warm water pipeline is sterilized, the warm water outlet valve is turned off and the first control valve is turned on, and hot water flows back to the warm water tank sequentially from the hot water tank, the warm water branch pipe, and the warm water main pipe.

2. The drinking water device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, At the connection between the warm water branch and the warm water main, the warm water main is divided into a common warm water section connected to the warm water tank and a warm water outlet section connected to the warm water outlet valve. When using warm water, the warm water flows from the shared warm water section through the warm water outlet section to the warm water outlet valve; when sterilizing the warm water pipeline, hot water flows from the warm water branch to the shared warm water section.

3. The drinking water device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The first hot water pipeline includes a first hot water outlet valve connected to the first water outlet and a first hot water pipe connected at both ends to the first hot water outlet valve and the hot water tank, respectively. When hot water is used, the first hot water outlet valve is turned on and the warm water outlet valve is turned off, and hot water flows out sequentially from the hot water tank, the first hot water pipe and the first outlet.

4. The drinking water device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, Also includes: The cold water pipeline includes a cold tank, a cold water main, a cold water outlet valve, and a second outlet connected sequentially along the direction of cold water flow; the cold water pipeline also includes a cold water branch pipe connected at both ends to the cold water main and the hot tank respectively, and a second control valve disposed on the cold water branch pipe. When cold water is used, the cold water outlet valve is turned on and the second control valve is turned off, and cold water flows out sequentially from the cold tank, the cold water main pipe, the cold water outlet valve and the second outlet. When the cold water pipeline is sterilized, the cold water outlet valve is turned off and the second control valve is turned on, and hot water flows back to the cold tank sequentially from the hot tank, the cold water branch pipe and the cold water main pipe.

5. The drinking water device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, At the connection between the cold water branch and the cold water main, the cold water main is divided into a common cold water section connected to the cold tank and a cold water outlet section connected to the cold water outlet valve. When cold water is used, the cold water flows from the cold water common section through the cold water outlet section to the cold water outlet valve; when the cold water pipeline is sterilized, hot water flows from the cold water branch to the cold water common section.

6. The drinking water device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The connection point between the warm water branch and the warm water main is located near the warm water outlet valve; and / or, The connection point between the cold water branch and the cold water main is located near the cold water outlet valve.

7. The drinking water device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The warm water main pipe and / or the cold water main pipe are equipped with an overflow ultraviolet sterilization device.

8. The drinking water device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The first water outlet and the second water outlet are the same water outlet, or the first water outlet and the second water outlet are different water outlets.

9. The drinking water device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The first water outlet and the second water outlet are different water outlets, and the drinking water device further includes: The second hot water pipeline includes a second hot water outlet valve connected to the second water outlet and a second hot water pipe connected at both ends to the second hot water outlet valve and the hot water tank, respectively. When hot water is used, the second hot water outlet valve is turned on and the cold water outlet valve is turned off, and hot water flows out sequentially from the hot water tank, the second hot water pipe and the second outlet.

10. The drinking water device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The first control valve and the second control valve are integrally formed as a three-way control valve, or the first control valve and the second control valve are different control valves.

11. The drinking water device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, When the warm water outlet valve is closed and the first control valve is open, the water in the warm water tank is supplied to the heating tank sequentially through the warm water main pipe and the warm water branch pipe; and... The warm water tank is also connected to the cold tank to replenish water to the cold tank through the warm water tank.

12. The drinking water device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The hot tank is higher than the warm water tank; The main hot water pipe is equipped with a first water pump to pump water from the hot water tank to the hot water tank.

13. The drinking water device as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The cold tank is higher than the warm water tank; The drinking water device also includes a cold tank inlet pipe connected at both ends to the cold tank and the warm water tank respectively. A second water pump is installed on the cold tank inlet pipe to pump water from the warm water tank to the cold tank.

14. The drinking water device as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The main hot water pipe is equipped with a third control valve, and the main hot water pipe can be divided into a pumping section connected to the hot water tank and an intermediate section connected to the hot water branch pipe, with the third control valve as the boundary; the cold tank inlet pipe is equipped with a fourth control valve. The first water pump and the second water pump are the same water pump and are installed on the water pumping section.

15. The drinking water device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: The cold tank drain pipeline includes a cold tank drain pipe connected at both ends to the cold tank and the warm water tank respectively, and a fifth control valve installed on the cold tank drain pipe.

16. The drinking water device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: The hot tank overflow pipeline includes a hot tank overflow pipe with both ends connected to the hot tank and the warm water tank, respectively.

17. The drinking water device as described in claim 16, characterized in that, The hot tank overflow pipeline also includes: The sixth control valve is located on the overflow pipe of the hot tank.

18. The drinking water device as described in claim 16, characterized in that, Also includes: The hot tank drain pipeline includes a hot tank drain pipe connected to the hot tank and a seventh control valve disposed on the hot tank drain pipe.

19. The drinking water device according to any one of claims 1-18, characterized in that, The warm water tank is equipped with an ultraviolet sterilization device; and / or, The warm water tank has an air pressure balance hole, and a filter membrane is installed at the air pressure balance hole.

20. The drinking water device according to any one of claims 4-18, characterized in that, The warm water tank has a first water level detection element and a first water temperature detection element; and / or, The hot tank has a second water level detection device and a second water temperature detection device.

21. A control method for a drinking water device, characterized in that, The control method, applicable to any one of claims 1-20, comprises: When the water drinking device meets the preset conditions, the water drinking device is controlled to heat the water in the hot tank to a first preset temperature; The system controls the hot water pipeline to deliver hot water from the hot water tank to the hot water container in order to sterilize the hot water pipeline.

22. The control method as described in claim 21, characterized in that, The drinking water device further includes a cold water pipeline connected to the hot water tank. After the step of controlling the warm water pipeline to deliver hot water from the hot water tank to the warm water container for sterilization, the device includes: The cold water pipeline is controlled to supply hot water from the hot tank to the cold tank in order to sterilize the cold water pipeline.

23. The control method as described in claim 22, characterized in that, The drinking water device further includes a cold water inlet pipe, a pumping section, and a warm water tank connected to the cold water pipeline. The step of controlling the cold water pipeline to deliver hot water from the hot water tank to the cold water tank for sterilization further includes: The cold water pipeline is controlled to deliver hot water from the hot tank through the cold tank to the warm water tank in order to sterilize the cold water pipeline, the cold tank inlet pipe and the pumping section.

24. The control method as described in claim 22, characterized in that, Before the step of controlling the cold water pipeline to supply hot water from the hot tank to the cold tank for sterilization, the method further includes: The system controls the warm water pipeline or cold water pipeline to supply water from the warm water tank to the hot water tank, and controls the drinking water device to heat the water in the hot water tank to the first preset temperature.

25. The control method as described in claim 22, characterized in that, The drinking water device further includes a cold water tank drain pipe connecting the cold water tank and the warm water tank; after the step of controlling the cold water pipe to deliver hot water from the hot water tank to the cold water tank for sterilization, the device further includes: Control the drainage pipeline of the cold tank to deliver water from the cold tank to the warm water tank.

26. The control method as described in claim 25, characterized in that, The warm water tank is equipped with an ultraviolet sterilization device. Following the step of controlling the drainage pipeline of the cold tank to supply water from the cold tank to the warm water tank, the method further includes: The ultraviolet sterilization device is controlled to start for a preset sterilization time; Control the cold water pipeline to supply water from the warm water tank to the cold tank and the hot tank; or, control the warm water pipeline to supply water from the warm water tank to the hot tank, and control the cold water pipeline to supply water from the warm water tank to the cold tank.

27. The control method according to any one of claims 21-26, characterized in that, The drinking water device meets at least one of the following preset conditions: The drinking water device receives a manually triggered sterilization command; The current time has reached the preset time, and no water intake operation has been detected within the preset sterilization time after the preset time.

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