Control valve, water softener and control method of water softener

Abstract

The invention discloses a control valve, a water softener and a control method of the water softener, and belongs to the technical field of water softening treatment.The control valve is provided with a first valve cavity and a second valve cavity, and control assemblies composed of grids and pistons are arranged in the two valve cavities correspondingly; the independent axial movement of the two pistons is utilized to flexibly combine and form different waterway connection states, so that the single valve body structure can realize three water supply modes of series connection, parallel connection and one-use and one-standby. According to the scheme, one control valve can switch working modes in a self-adaptive mode according to different water hardness and water flow requirements, the water outlet quality can be guaranteed through a series connection mode under high-hardness water quality, the water supply requirement can be met through a parallel connection mode when large flow is needed, and the water supply efficiency is improved. And meanwhile, alternate working and regeneration of the resin tanks can be realized in a one-use and one-standby mode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of water softening technology, and in particular to a control valve, a water softener, and a control method thereof. Background Technology

[0002] A water softener is a water purification device whose core function is to remove calcium and magnesium ions from water, reducing water hardness. It uses resin filter media and ion exchange technology to exchange calcium and magnesium ions with the resin, thus converting hard water into soft water.

[0003] The control valve is the core component of a water softener, mainly responsible for switching water paths. However, current control valves are unable to accommodate different usage scenarios with varying water volume and hardness, and are gradually failing to meet user needs. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a control valve, a water softener, and a control method thereof, which can support the series and parallel connection of two resin tanks and the one-in-use-one-backup water supply, so as to at least partially solve the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, according to a first aspect of this application, a control valve is provided for connecting two resin tanks, the control valve comprising: The valve body has a first valve chamber and a second valve chamber; A first control component is disposed in the first valve chamber, including a first grille and a first piston housed in the first grille. The first grille axially divides the first valve chamber and forms a plurality of first chambers. The first piston is axially movable to change the communication relationship between the plurality of first chambers. The second control component is disposed in the second valve chamber and includes a second grille and a second piston housed in the second grille. The second grille axially divides the second valve chamber and forms a plurality of second chambers. The second piston is axially movable to change the communication relationship between the plurality of second chambers. The first piston and the second piston are configured to combine to form multiple water circuit connection states by moving axially, so that the control valve has a series mode, a parallel mode and a one-in-one-out-of-service mode. In the series mode, the control valve is used to control the water supply of the two resin tanks in series; in the parallel mode, the control valve is used to control the water supply of the two resin tanks in parallel; in the one-in-one-out mode, the control valve is used to control the water supply of one of the two resin tanks.

[0006] According to a second aspect of this application, a water softener is provided, comprising: The control valve as described in any embodiment of the first aspect, and, Two resin tanks are connected to the control valve respectively.

[0007] According to a third aspect of this application, a control method is provided, applied to a water softener as described above, the control method comprising: Obtain at least one parameter related to water usage conditions; Based on the at least one parameter, the first piston and the second piston of the control valve are controlled to move, so as to automatically switch the water softener to one of the following modes: series mode, parallel mode, and one-in-one-out-of-service mode.

[0008] In the control valve of this application embodiment, a valve body with a first valve chamber and a second valve chamber is provided. A first control component including a first grille and a first piston is provided in the first valve chamber, and a second control component including a second grille and a second piston is provided in the second valve chamber. By utilizing the axial movement of the first piston within the plurality of first chambers formed by the first grille and the axial movement of the second piston within the plurality of second chambers formed by the second grille, the two pistons change the communication relationship between the chambers through their respective displacement combinations. This allows a single control valve to have three operating modes: series water supply, parallel water supply, and one-in-one-out operation. This control valve enables the soft water system to select a series mode to improve the quality of the effluent water based on the hardness of the influent water, or to switch to a parallel mode to increase the water supply capacity based on the water flow demand. It can also achieve alternating operation and regeneration of the resin tank in the one-in-one-out operation mode, ensuring an uninterrupted and continuous supply of soft water. Thus, it can simultaneously handle high-hardness influent water and high-flow-rate water supply while improving the quality of the continuous water supply.

[0009] The water softener according to this embodiment includes the aforementioned control valve and two resin tanks, each connected to the control valve. Therefore, it possesses all the technical features and beneficial effects of the control valve, which will not be elaborated further here.

[0010] The control method of this application embodiment acquires at least one parameter related to the water usage conditions and controls the movement of the first and second pistons in the control valve based on the parameter, thereby realizing the automatic switching of the water softener between series mode, parallel mode, and one-in-one-out-of-use mode. This method enables the water softener to automatically select the most suitable operating mode according to actual water hardness, flow rate, and other operating conditions: under high-hardness influent conditions, the series mode is preferentially used to improve the effluent water quality; under instantaneous high-flow-rate water demand, it automatically switches to parallel mode to ensure water supply flow; and under normal operating conditions, the one-in-one-out-of-use mode enables alternating operation and regeneration preparation of the resin tank, thus significantly improving the water softener's adaptability to different water usage scenarios without manual intervention.

[0011] Other features and advantages of this application will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0012] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments 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.

[0013] To gain a more complete understanding of this application and its beneficial effects, the following description will be provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals in the following description denote the same parts.

[0014] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a water softener structure provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a water softener provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a control valve structure provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path structure of a control valve provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path structure of a water softener provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of a water softener operating in series mode according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of a water softener operating in parallel mode according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of a water softener operating in a one-use-one-standby mode according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of another flow path of a water softener operating in a one-use-one-standby mode according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of a water softener provided in one embodiment of the present application, operating in a state where one tank supplies water and the other tank absorbs brine; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of another flow path of a water softener provided in one embodiment of the present application, in a state where one tank supplies water and the other tank absorbs brine; Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of a water softener provided in one embodiment of the present application, operating in a state of one tank supplying water and one tank backwashing. Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of another flow path of a water softener provided in one embodiment of the present application, in a state of one tank supplying water and one tank backwashing; Figure 14This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of a water softener provided in one embodiment of the present application, operating in a state of one tank supplying water and one tank washing water. Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of another flow path of a water softener provided in one embodiment of the present application, in a state of one tank supplying water and one tank washing water. Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of the control valve of a water softener provided in an embodiment of this application in the closed mode; Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of the control valve of a water softener provided in one embodiment of this application in bypass mode; Figure 18 This is a schematic flowchart of the water softener control method according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the intelligent mode of the water softener control method according to an embodiment of this application; Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 10-Water softener; 100-Control valve; 110-Valve body; 111-First valve chamber; 112-Second valve chamber; 113-Inlet; 114-Outlet; 115-First connector; 116-Second connector; 117-Drain outlet; 120-First control component; 121-First screen; 122-First piston; 130-First chamber; 131-First inlet chamber; 132-First outlet chamber; 133-First water passage chamber; 134-First connecting chamber; 135-Second connecting chamber; 136-Third connecting chamber; 137-Fourth connecting chamber; 138-Third water passage chamber; 139-Fourth water passage chamber; 140-Fifth water passage chamber Cavity; 150-Second control assembly; 151-Second grille; 152-Second piston; 160-Second chamber; 161-Second inlet chamber; 162-Second outlet chamber; 163-Second through chamber; 164-Sewage chamber; 165-Brine suction chamber; 166-Bypass chamber; 170-Flow passage; 180-Brine suction jet; 190-Bridging passage; 200-Resin tank; 200a-First resin tank; 200b-Second resin tank; 210-Processing chamber; 210a-First processing chamber; 210b-Second processing chamber; 220-Central pipe; 220a-First central pipe; 220b-Second central pipe; 300-Brine tank. Detailed Implementation

[0015] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the protection scope of this application.

[0016] like Figure 1As shown in the figure, the water softener 10 provided in this application embodiment can integrate and intelligently switch between three working modes—series connection, parallel connection, and one-in-one-out-of-use—on the same device. Please refer to... Figure 2 As shown, specifically for areas with high-hardness incoming water, the control valve 100 switches to a series mode, allowing the raw water to flow sequentially through two resin tanks 200 for double deep softening, thus ensuring stable and excellent water quality. To address sudden high-flow-rate household water demands, such as when multiple water outlets are simultaneously activated, the control valve 100 distributes the raw water to both second resin tanks 200b for parallel processing, then combines the softened water for output, significantly improving instantaneous water supply capacity. Under normal water usage conditions, the control valve 100 controls one resin tank 200 to operate in water production mode, while the other resin tank 200 remains in standby mode. When the operating resin tank 200 becomes saturated and requires regeneration, it can seamlessly switch to the standby resin tank 200 for water supply, achieving an uninterrupted water supply cycle where one tank produces softened water while the other uses it for regeneration.

[0017] Please refer to the following: Figure 3 and Figure 4 The control valve 100 provided in this application embodiment is used to connect two resin tanks 200, and includes a valve body 110, a first control component 120 and a second control component 150.

[0018] The valve body 110 has a first valve chamber 111 and a second valve chamber 112 inside. A first control component 120 is disposed in the first valve chamber 111 and consists of a first grille 121 and a first piston 122 placed therein. The first grille 121 divides the first valve chamber 111 along the axial direction X1 into multiple sequentially arranged first chambers 130. The first piston 122 changes the communication relationship between the first chambers 130 by axial movement. A second control component 150 is disposed in the second valve chamber 112 and consists of a second grille 151 and a second piston 152 placed therein. The second grille 151 divides the second valve chamber 112 along the axial direction X2 into multiple sequentially arranged second chambers 160. The second piston 152 changes the communication relationship between the second chambers 160 by axial movement.

[0019] By combining the axial movements of the first piston 122 and the second piston 152, various different water circuit connection states can be formed, thereby enabling the control valve 100 to have three working modes: series mode, parallel mode, and one-in-one-out-of-service mode.

[0020] In series mode, control valve 100 controls two resin tanks 200 to flow water sequentially in series; in parallel mode, it controls two resin tanks 200 to flow water simultaneously in parallel; in one-in-one-out mode, it controls only one of the two resin tanks 200 to flow water, while the other is in standby mode. As mentioned earlier, the series mode is suitable for high-hardness influent water, where the water flows through the two resin tanks 200 sequentially, undergoing two ion exchanges to achieve deep softening and ensure effluent quality; the parallel mode addresses instantaneous high-flow-rate water demand, where raw water is simultaneously and in parallel fed into the two resin tanks 200 for treatment, then merged for output, doubling the soft water flow rate. The one-in-one-out mode is suitable for regular water use, where one resin tank 200 is operational while the other is on standby. When the operational tank is saturated, it can immediately switch to the standby tank for water supply and provide a regeneration window for the operational tank, achieving uninterrupted soft water supply.

[0021] Thus, the embodiments of this application integrate three water supply modes through a single control valve 100 structure, significantly improving the adaptability of the soft water system to different water quality conditions and water demand.

[0022] Please refer to the following: Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some embodiments, the valve body 110 is further provided with an inlet 113 and an outlet 114. The inlet 113 is used to connect the hard water to be treated and is the starting point of the soft water treatment process; the outlet 114 is used to output the soft water treated by the ion exchange resin and is the final outlet of the system. When installing the water softener 10, the inlet 113 and the outlet 114 can be connected to the user's tap water network respectively.

[0023] The plurality of first chambers 130 include a first inlet chamber 131 communicating with the inlet 113, a first outlet chamber 132 communicating with the outlet 114, a first flow passage chamber 133 serving as an intermediate flow channel, and two sets of interface chambers for connecting the two resin tanks 200 respectively. One set of interface chambers consists of a first connecting chamber 134 and a second connecting chamber 135, used to connect the processing chamber 210 of one resin tank 200 to the central tube 220; the other set of interface chambers consists of a third connecting chamber 136 and a fourth connecting chamber 137, used to connect the processing chamber 210 of the other resin tank 200 to the central tube 220.

[0024] The plurality of second chambers 160 include a second water inlet chamber 161 that communicates with the first water inlet chamber 131 and a second water passage chamber 163 that communicates with the first water passage chamber 133. The communication between the first chamber 130 and the second chamber 160 can be achieved through a flow passage 170 formed in the valve body 110.

[0025] By forming the aforementioned chambers in the first valve chamber 111 and the second valve chamber 112 respectively, a stable flow channel can be established between the main water circuit and the auxiliary water circuit, ensuring that the three working modes can be reliably and accurately implemented.

[0026] Please combine them together Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, in the series mode, the first water passage chamber 133 is connected to the first connecting chamber 134, the second connecting chamber 135 is connected to the third connecting chamber 136, the fourth connecting chamber 137 is connected to the first water outlet chamber 132, and the second water inlet chamber 161 is connected to the second water passage chamber 163. This specific interconnected combination constitutes a complete series water circuit: raw water enters from inlet 113, flows sequentially through the first inlet chamber 131, the second inlet chamber 161, the second through chamber 163, the first through chamber 133, and the first connecting chamber 134 into the first treatment chamber 210a of the first resin tank 200a. After initial softening by flowing down through the resin layer, it enters the second connecting chamber 135 through the first central pipe 220a of the tank, then through the third connecting chamber 136 into the second treatment chamber 210b of the second resin tank 200b. It then flows through the resin layer again for further softening, and finally through the second central pipe 220b of the tank into the fourth connecting chamber 137 and the first outlet chamber 132, and is discharged from outlet 114. This mode, through two-stage series treatment, significantly improves the water purification effect for high-hardness inlet water.

[0027] Specifically, the first piston 122 can be moved to the first main valve position, and the second piston 152 can be moved to the first auxiliary valve position to obtain the following: Figure 6 The connected state shown realizes the waterway structure of the above-mentioned series mode.

[0028] It should be noted that, in this application, the various main valve positions of the first piston 122 and the various auxiliary valve positions of the second piston 152 refer to the axial positions of the pistons that enable a specific water circuit connection state. This position can be a precise fixed point or a range with axial allowance. That is, the piston is allowed to move within a certain tolerance or dynamic range, as long as it can establish and maintain the water circuit connection required for the corresponding mode.

[0029] Please combine them together Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 7In parallel mode, the first inlet chamber 131 is simultaneously connected to the first connecting chamber 134 and the third connecting chamber 136, and the first outlet chamber 132 is simultaneously connected to the second connecting chamber 135 and the fourth connecting chamber 137. This causes the raw water to split into two streams after entering the first inlet chamber 131 through the inlet 113, entering the treatment chambers 210 of the two resin tanks 200 respectively. The water flows through its respective resin layer for simultaneous softening treatment, and then converges into the first outlet chamber 132 through its respective central pipe 220, the second connecting chamber 135, and the fourth connecting chamber 137, before being discharged through the outlet 114. This mode effectively increases the instantaneous water production flow rate of the system, meeting the demand for large-flow water use.

[0030] Specifically, the first piston 122 can be moved to the second main valve position, while the second piston 152 remains unchanged in the first auxiliary valve position, to obtain the following: Figure 7 The connected state shown enables the waterway structure in the parallel mode described above.

[0031] Please combine them together Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the one-use-one-standby mode, two optional states are provided.

[0032] like Figure 8 As shown, the first state is as follows: the first inlet chamber 131 is connected to the first connecting chamber 134 and isolated from the third connecting chamber 136; the first outlet chamber 132 is connected to the second connecting chamber 135 and isolated from the fourth connecting chamber 137. In this state, only the first resin tank 200a is operational. Raw water enters the first inlet chamber 131 through the inlet 113, then enters the first treatment chamber 210a of the first resin tank 200a through the first connecting chamber 134. After softening by flowing down through the resin layer, it enters the second connecting chamber 135 through the first central pipe 220a of the tank, then enters the first outlet chamber 132, and is discharged from the outlet 114. At this time, the second resin tank 200b is in standby mode, and further operations such as salt absorption, forward washing, and backwashing can be performed on the second resin tank 200b.

[0033] Specifically, the first piston 122 can be moved to the third main valve position, while the second piston 152 remains unchanged in the first auxiliary valve position, to obtain the following: Figure 8 The connected state shown enables the water circuit structure of the above-mentioned one-in-use-one-outstanding mode. The second piston 152 can also be moved to perform operations such as salt intake, forward washing, and backwashing.

[0034] like Figure 9As shown, the second state is as follows: the first inlet chamber 131 is connected to the third connecting chamber 136 but isolated from the first connecting chamber 134; the first outlet chamber 132 is connected to the fourth connecting chamber 137 but isolated from the second connecting chamber 135. In this state, only the second resin tank 200b is in operation. Raw water enters the first inlet chamber 131 through the inlet 113, then enters the second treatment chamber 210b of the second resin tank 200b through the third connecting chamber 136. After softening by flowing down through the resin layer, it enters the fourth connecting chamber 137 through the second central pipe 220b of the tank, then enters the first outlet chamber 132, and is discharged from the outlet 114. At this time, the first resin tank 200a is in standby mode, and further operations such as salt absorption, forward washing, and backwashing can be performed on the first resin tank 200a.

[0035] Specifically, the first piston 122 can be moved to the fourth main valve position, while the second piston 152 remains unchanged in the first auxiliary valve position, to obtain the following: Figure 9 The connected state shown enables the water circuit structure of the above-mentioned one-in-use-one-outstanding mode. The second piston 152 can also be moved to perform operations such as salt intake, forward washing, and backwashing.

[0036] This one-in-one-out-of-use mode enables the alternating use and standby of the two resin tanks 200, providing the necessary conditions for single-tank regeneration.

[0037] Please refer to it again. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some embodiments, the plurality of first chambers 130 further include a third water passage chamber 138, a fourth water passage chamber 139, and a fifth water passage chamber 140. The third water passage chamber 138 communicates with the second connecting chamber 135, and the fourth water passage chamber 139 communicates with the third connecting chamber 136. These three water passage chambers constitute a channel for transmitting brine absorption, backwashing, and forward washing fluids between the resin tank 200 and the main water path. The plurality of second chambers 160 also include a drain chamber 164, a brine absorption chamber 165, and a second water outlet chamber 162 communicating with the first water outlet chamber 132. The drain chamber 164 is connected to the drain port 117 of the valve body 110 (e.g., ...). Figure 3 The system is connected to the brine chamber 165, which is responsible for discharging wastewater from the system during processes such as brine suction, backwashing, and forward washing. The brine suction chamber 165 is connected to the fifth water passage chamber 140 and is used to connect to the brine suction outlet of the brine suction ejector 180; simultaneously, the second water outlet chamber 162 can provide a power water source for the brine suction ejector 180. This arrangement allows the control valve 100 to utilize the negative pressure generated by the brine suction ejector 180 to draw brine from the brine tank 300 and transport it to the resin tank 200, which requires regeneration.

[0038] The brine suction chamber 165 and the fifth water passage chamber 140 can be connected via a flow passage 170 provided on the valve body 110. The third water passage chamber 138 can be connected to the second connecting chamber 135 via an external pipe or via a bridging passage 190 provided in the valve body 110. The fourth water passage chamber 139 can be connected to the third connecting chamber 136 via an external pipe or via a bridging passage 190 provided in the valve body 110. The second water outlet chamber 162 can be connected to the nozzle of the brine suction jet 180, and the brine suction chamber 165 can be connected to the throat of the brine suction jet 180; a one-way valve can be provided between the two.

[0039] By adding the above structure, the function of control valve 100 can be expanded from a single water production operation to a complete regeneration process. Through the coordinated operation of the newly added water passage chamber, brine suction chamber 165 and sewage discharge chamber 164, control valve 100 can guide water flow to perform backwashing, brine suction, forward washing and other operations.

[0040] Please combine them together Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 The control valve 100 also has a regeneration mode, which is a working mode for regenerating the standby resin tank 200 based on the one-in-one-outstand mode. Furthermore, the control valve 100 can also control the two resin tanks 200 to regenerate independently. Regeneration can include working states such as brine intake, backwashing, and water injection.

[0041] Figure 10The diagram illustrates the first regeneration state, in which the resin tank 200 on the left supplies soft water, and the resin tank 200 on the right absorbs brine. In this state, the first inlet chamber 131 is connected to the first connecting chamber 134, while being isolated from the third connecting chamber 136; the first outlet chamber 132 is connected to the second connecting chamber 135, while being isolated from the fourth connecting chamber 137. That is, the first piston 122 is in the third main valve position, which allows the first resin tank 200 to operate normally, continuously supplying soft water to the point of use. Simultaneously, the brine absorption path from the brine tank 300 is opened, the fourth water passage chamber 139 connects to the first water passage chamber 133, the second water passage chamber 163 connects to the drain chamber 164, and the fifth water passage chamber 140 connects to the fourth connecting chamber 137. These interconnected combinations constitute the regeneration loop of the second resin tank 200b: a portion of the soft water produced by the first resin tank 200a flows sequentially through the first outlet chamber 132, the second outlet chamber 162, the brine ejector 180, the brine suction chamber 165, the fifth water passage chamber 140, and the fourth connecting chamber 137 into the second central pipe 220b, thereby entering the second resin tank 200b and renewing the resin from bottom to top. Wastewater passes through the fourth water passage chamber 139, the first water passage chamber 133, the second water passage chamber 163, and the drain chamber 164, and is finally discharged through the drain chamber 164. Specifically, the second piston 152 can be moved to the second auxiliary valve position to achieve the above-described water circuit structure.

[0042] Figure 11 The second regeneration state is shown. In this state, the resin tank 200 on the right supplies soft water, while the resin tank 200 on the left absorbs brine, similar to the first state. In this state, the first inlet chamber 131 is connected to the third connecting chamber 136 but isolated from the first connecting chamber 134; the first outlet chamber 132 is connected to the fourth connecting chamber 137 but isolated from the second connecting chamber 135. That is, the first piston 122 is in the fourth main valve position, putting the second resin tank 200b into water production operation. Simultaneously, the brine absorption path from the brine tank 300 is opened, the first connecting chamber 134 is connected to the first water passage chamber 133, the second water passage chamber 163 remains connected to the drain chamber 164, and the fifth water passage chamber 140 is connected to the third water passage chamber 138. This constitutes the regeneration circuit of the first resin tank 200a: the soft water produced by the second resin tank 200b flows sequentially through the first outlet chamber 132, the second outlet chamber 162, the brine ejector 180, the brine suction chamber 165, the fifth water passage chamber 140, the third water passage chamber 138, and the second connecting chamber 135 into the first central pipe 220a, thereby entering the bottom of the first resin tank 200a to renew the resin from bottom to top. Wastewater passes through the first connecting chamber 134, the first water passage chamber 133, the second water passage chamber 163, and the drain chamber 164, and is finally discharged through the drain chamber 164. Specifically, the second piston 152 is in the aforementioned second auxiliary valve position, realizing the above water circuit structure.

[0043] Figure 12The third regeneration state is demonstrated, namely the one-in-use-one-standby mode, with the backwash water flow structure of the resin tank 200 on the right in standby mode. In this state, the first piston 122 is in the third main valve position, and the first resin tank 200a is supplied with soft water. Figure 10 The difference is that the position of the second piston 152 is switched to the third auxiliary valve position, and the flow path for drawing salt from the salt tank 300 is disconnected. A portion of the soft water produced by the first resin tank 200a passes through the first outlet chamber 132 in sequence through the second outlet chamber 162, the salt suction chamber 165, the fifth water passage chamber 140, the fourth connecting chamber 137, and the second central pipe 220b, thus backflowing the second resin tank 200b. The wastewater passes through the fourth water passage chamber 139, the first water passage chamber 133, and the second water passage chamber 163, and is finally discharged through the drain chamber 164.

[0044] Figure 13 The fourth regeneration state is demonstrated, namely the one-in-use-one-standby mode, showing the backwashing water flow structure of the resin tank 200 on the left, which is in standby mode. In this state, the first piston 122 is in the fourth main valve position, and the second resin tank 200b is supplied with soft water. Figure 11 The difference is that the position of the second piston 152 is switched to the third auxiliary valve position, and the flow path for drawing salt from the salt tank 300 is disconnected. A portion of the soft water produced by the second resin tank 200b passes through the first outlet chamber 132, then sequentially through the second outlet chamber 162, the salt suction chamber 165, the fifth water passage chamber 140, the third water passage chamber 138, and the first central pipe 220a, to perform a countercurrent flushing of the first resin tank 200a from the bottom. The wastewater passes through the first connecting chamber 134, the first water passage chamber 133, the second water passage chamber 163, and is finally discharged through the drain chamber 164.

[0045] Figure 14 The fifth regeneration state is demonstrated, namely the one-in-use-one-standby mode, showing the water flow structure of the resin tank 200 on the right in standby mode during forward washing. In this state, the first piston 122 is in the third main valve position, and the first resin tank 200a is supplied with soft water. Figure 10 The difference is that the position of the second piston 152 is switched to the fourth auxiliary valve position, and the flow path for drawing salt from the salt tank 300 is disconnected. A portion of the raw water entering from the inlet 113 flows through the first inlet chamber 131 into the second inlet chamber 161, the second through chamber 163, the first through chamber 133, the fourth through chamber 139, and the second treatment chamber 210b, performing a forward flushing of the second resin tank 200b. The wastewater flows through the fourth connecting chamber 137, the fifth through chamber 140, the salt suction chamber 165, and the flow channel between the second piston 152, and is finally discharged through the drain chamber 164.

[0046] Figure 15The sixth regeneration state is demonstrated, namely the one-in-use-one-standby mode, showing the water flow structure of the resin tank 200 on the left in standby mode during forward washing. In this state, the first piston 122 is in the fourth main valve position, and the second resin tank 200b is supplied with soft water. Figure 11 The difference is that the position of the second piston 152 is switched to the fourth auxiliary valve position, and the flow path for drawing salt from the salt tank 300 is disconnected. A portion of the raw water entering from the inlet 113 flows through the first inlet chamber 131 into the second inlet chamber 161, the second through chamber 163, the first through chamber 133, and the first connecting chamber 134 in sequence, performing a forward flushing of the first resin tank 200a. The wastewater flows through the third through chamber 138, the salt suction chamber 165, and the flow channel between the second piston 152, and is finally discharged through the drain chamber 164.

[0047] In addition, the regeneration also includes a water injection mode, in which the flow path to the brine tank 300 is opened when the water is being produced, so that water can be supplied into the brine tank 300.

[0048] Figure 16 The water circuit structure with the control valve 100 in the closed mode is shown. In this state, the first piston 122 is in the first main valve position, the second piston 152 switches to the fifth auxiliary valve position, and the raw water at the inlet 113 is shut off.

[0049] Please refer to it again. Figure 4 In some embodiments, within the first valve chamber 111, the plurality of first chambers 130 are arranged axially in the following order: fourth water passage chamber 139, first water passage chamber 133, first connecting chamber 134, first water inlet chamber 131, third connecting chamber 136, second connecting chamber 135, first water outlet chamber 132, fourth connecting chamber 137, fifth water passage chamber 140, and third water passage chamber 138. This specific arrangement constitutes the movement trajectory of the first piston 122 within the first valve chamber 111, enabling the piston to accurately connect or disconnect the corresponding functional chambers at different positions.

[0050] In some embodiments, within the second valve chamber 112, the plurality of second chambers 160 are arranged sequentially along the axial direction as follows: a drain chamber 164, a second water passage chamber 163, a second water inlet chamber 161, a second water outlet chamber 162, and a brine suction chamber 165. This arrangement, in conjunction with the layout of the first valve chamber 111, enables the movement of the second piston 152 to precisely control the various functional flow paths during the regeneration process.

[0051] The layout of the chambers in the first valve chamber 111 and the second valve chamber 112 makes the structure of the valve body 110 more compact, which helps to reduce the overall size of the control valve 100; secondly, the orderly arrangement of the chambers reduces the complexity of the internal flow channels and reduces the water flow resistance.

[0052] In some embodiments, the plurality of second chambers 160 further include a bypass chamber 166, which is disposed between the second inlet chamber 161 and the second outlet chamber 162. (Please refer to...) Figure 17 As shown, another axial working position of the second piston 152 is the sixth auxiliary valve position. When the control valve 100 switches to the bypass mode, that is, the second piston 152 switches to the sixth auxiliary valve position, the bypass chamber 166 is connected to the second inlet chamber 161 and the second outlet chamber 162 respectively. This specific connection establishes an independent water flow channel: raw water enters from the inlet 113, flows through the first inlet chamber 131 and the second inlet chamber 161, flows directly to the second outlet chamber 162 through the bypass chamber 166, then merges into the first outlet chamber 132, and finally exits from the outlet 114. This allows the water flow to completely bypass the two resin tanks 200 and their related connecting pipes. By setting this function, users can perform maintenance on the water softener 10 system without interrupting the household water supply, ensuring that basic water needs are not affected. Users can switch to this bypass mode when performing tasks such as watering flowers or washing cars.

[0053] Please refer to them again. Figure 2 and Figure 3 In some embodiments, the first valve chamber 111 and the second valve chamber 112 are arranged horizontally side by side. By arranging the two valve chambers side by side within the valve body 110, a... Figure 3 The layout shown is parallel to the left and right sides. The horizontally arranged valve chamber structure directly reduces the overall height of the valve body 110 in the vertical direction. Compared to the traditional vertical stacking design, this layout effectively reduces the vertical space occupied by the valve body 110, making the structure of the control valve 100 more flat and compact. This structural improvement allows the water softener 10, which includes the control valve 100, to be more easily installed in places with limited vertical space, such as under kitchen cabinets or inside pipe shafts. At the same time, the horizontal layout also facilitates the processing, manufacturing, and assembly of the two valve chambers, improving production efficiency and product consistency.

[0054] Optionally, the valve body 110 is also provided with multiple flow passages 170, through which the first valve chamber 111 is connected to the second valve chamber 112. Specifically, the first inlet chamber 131 is connected to the second inlet chamber 161 through one flow passage 170, the first outlet chamber 132 is connected to the second outlet chamber 162 through another flow passage 170, and the first through chamber 133 is also connected to the second through chamber 163 through a corresponding flow passage 170. The horizontally arranged first valve chamber 111 and second valve chamber 112 provide more space for the flow passages 170, significantly increasing the flow capacity of the flow passages 170 while maintaining the compactness of the valve body 110, reducing system flow resistance, and enabling the control valve 100 to handle a larger water flow rate per unit time, thereby further meeting the user's demand for large-flow soft water during peak water usage periods.

[0055] By setting the first valve chamber 111 and the second valve chamber 112 in a horizontal layout, the height of the valve body 110 is reduced. Optionally, the size of the valve body 110 can be controlled within 150 mm, effectively solving the problem that traditional water softeners 10 cannot be installed in standard kitchen cabinets due to the excessive height of the valve body 110.

[0056] In some embodiments, the valve body 110 is provided with two independent connection interfaces: a first connector 115 is located at the bottom of the valve body 110 for connecting to a resin tank 200 directly below the valve body 110; a second connector 116 is located on the side of the valve body 110, arranged on the opposite side of the inlet 113 and outlet 114, for connecting to another resin tank 200 on the side of the valve body 110. This fully utilizes the interface space of the valve body 110, allowing the two resin tanks 200 to connect to the control valve 100 from the bottom and side, respectively. This effectively reduces pipe interference and also reduces the planar projection area required for installation, enabling the water softener 10 system containing dual resin tanks 200 to make more efficient use of limited spaces such as under-sink areas.

[0057] Furthermore, this application embodiment also provides a water softener 10, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the water softener 10 includes a control valve 100 according to any of the above embodiments and two resin tanks 200, which are respectively connected to the control valve 100. Therefore, the water softener 10 can have all the technical features and effects of the control valve 100 described above, which will not be repeated here.

[0058] In addition, the water softener 10 may also include Figure 1 The control valve 100, resin tank 200, and other components shown can all be housed within the enclosure.

[0059] Accordingly, this application also provides a control method applied to the aforementioned water softener 10. For example... Figure 18 As shown, the control method includes: Obtain at least one parameter related to water usage conditions; Based on at least one parameter, the first piston 122 and the second piston 152 of the control valve 100 are moved to automatically switch the water softener 10 to one of the following modes: series mode, parallel mode, and one-in-one-out-of-use mode.

[0060] Specifically, at least one parameter related to the water usage conditions is first acquired, including data reflecting actual water usage conditions such as inlet water hardness, inlet water flow rate, or inlet water pressure. Based on the acquired parameters, the first piston 122 and the second piston 152 of the control valve 100 are controlled to move in a specific axial direction. By precisely controlling the displacement combination of the two pistons, the communication relationship between the chambers inside the control valve 100 is changed, thereby driving the water softener 10 to automatically switch between series mode, parallel mode, and one-in-one-out-of-use mode. This control method combines the hardware structure of the water softener 10 with intelligent control logic, enabling the system to automatically select the optimal operating mode according to actual water usage conditions, significantly improving the adaptability of the water softener 10 to different water usage scenarios, and optimizing system energy efficiency while ensuring water quality.

[0061] In some embodiments, based on at least one parameter, the first piston 122 and the second piston 152 of the control valve 100 are controlled to move to automatically switch the water softener 10 to one of a series mode, a parallel mode, and a one-in-one-out-of-use mode, including: obtaining the inlet water hardness value; The influent hardness value is compared with the preset hardness threshold value; When the hardness value of the incoming water is greater than or equal to the hardness threshold, the water softener 10 is controlled to operate in series mode. When the hardness value of the incoming water is less than the hardness threshold, the water softener 10 is controlled to operate in a one-in-one-standby mode.

[0062] The influent water hardness value can be the actual measured value directly input by the user through the human-machine interface of the water softener 10, or it can be real-time data automatically measured by the system through the water quality detection module. The control program compares the acquired influent water hardness value with a preset hardness threshold. This hardness threshold is a key judgment threshold preset based on system parameters such as resin exchange capacity and regeneration cycle. The comparison result directly determines the working mode of the water softener 10: if the influent water hardness value is greater than or equal to the preset hardness threshold, the first piston 122 and the second piston 152 are controlled to move to the position of establishing a series mode, so that the water flows through the two resin tanks 200 in sequence to achieve deep softening of high hardness water and ensure the quality of the output water. If the influent water hardness value is less than the threshold, the first piston 122 and the second piston 152 are controlled to move to the position of establishing a one-in-one-outstand mode. At this time, only one tank needs to operate to meet the softening requirements, and the other tank serves as a backup, reserving conditions for subsequent alternating operation and regeneration.

[0063] Specifically, the water softener 10 is factory-set to a one-in-one-standby mode; the automatic three-in-one mode switch is also on by default. When the user inputs the water hardness value A into the water softener 10, it automatically compares it with the preset critical hardness value H. If A ≥ H, the water softener 10 automatically switches to series mode; otherwise, it remains in the one-in-one-standby mode.

[0064] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: continuously monitoring the real-time flow rate of the inlet 113 during operation in a one-in-one-out standby mode or a series mode. When the inlet flow rate is continuously detected to exceed a preset flow threshold value, and this state continues for a preset duration, the first piston 122 and the second piston 152 are controlled to move to the position of establishing a parallel mode, so that the two resin tanks 200 are put into operation simultaneously to provide the maximum instantaneous water production capacity and meet the user's high-flow-rate water demand.

[0065] When the system is in parallel mode, the influent flow rate continues to be monitored. If the influent flow rate is detected to be lower than the flow rate threshold and continues to reach the preset delay time, the control piston assembly is switched back to the one-in-one-out standby mode or series mode that was operating before entering parallel mode.

[0066] Specifically, in the one-in-one-standby mode, the water softener 10 continuously monitors the flow meter signal at the inlet 113. If the user's continuous water flow rate exceeds the first flow threshold L1 for a duration of B1, the water softener 10 automatically and quickly switches to parallel operation mode. After switching to parallel mode, if the water flow rate is less than L1, a countdown D begins. If, during the countdown D, the water flow rate exceeds L1, the countdown is canceled, and if the water flow rate is detected to be less than L1 again, the countdown D restarts. After the countdown D is complete, the water softener 10 automatically switches back to the one-in-one-standby mode.

[0067] If the water softener 10 is in series mode, it will continuously monitor the flow meter signal at the inlet 113. If the user's continuous water flow rate exceeds the second flow threshold L2 for a duration of B2, the water softener 10 will automatically and quickly switch to parallel operation mode. After switching to parallel mode, if the water flow rate is less than L2, a countdown D will begin. If the water flow rate exceeds L2 within the countdown D period, the countdown will be canceled, and the countdown D will restart when the water flow rate is detected to be less than L2 again. After the countdown D is complete, the water softener 10 will automatically switch back to series mode.

[0068] The system uses a first flow threshold L1 to trigger the switch from a single-use / single-standby mode to a parallel mode, and a second flow threshold L2 to trigger the switch from a series mode to a parallel mode. L1 and L2 can be equal or unequal. By setting different flow switching thresholds for different operating modes, the control system can more accurately determine when to switch to parallel mode. This avoids insufficient water supply due to excessively high thresholds in single-use / single-standby mode, and also prevents frequent mode switching due to excessively low thresholds in series mode. Thus, it optimizes system stability while ensuring sufficient water supply.

[0069] Of course, in addition to automatic switching, you can also manually switch between the three working modes: series mode, parallel mode, and one-in-one-out-of-service mode.

[0070] In the above embodiments, by introducing flow rate as the second judgment dimension for mode switching, this solution enables the water softener 10 to not only be statically configured according to water hardness, but also dynamically adjusted according to the user's real-time water usage behavior, thus meeting the dual needs of daily energy saving and peak water supply, and significantly improving the practicality of the product and user experience.

[0071] In some embodiments, the control method further includes a regeneration step. Specifically, the control module of the water softener 10 controls the two resin tanks 200 of the water softener 10, which are in a one-in-one-out-of-use mode, to regenerate respectively, so that one resin tank 200 performs the regeneration process while the other resin tank 200 remains in a water production state.

[0072] Optionally, during this process, all the water used for regeneration comes from the soft water produced by the resin tank 200, which is currently producing water. Regeneration steps, including backwashing and brine extraction, are all completed using soft water. Alternatively, depending on the user's needs, regeneration can also be performed using raw water.

[0073] In this application, the movement of the first piston 122 and the second piston 152 in the control valve 100 can both be controlled by a control module. The control module can be integrated into the control valve 100 or set up independently of the control valve 100. The hardware basis of the control module can be one or more microprocessors, microcontrollers, or application-specific integrated circuits.

[0074] In some embodiments, the regeneration timing can be determined based on water consumption. In a one-in-one-out standby mode, the system accumulates the water production of a single working resin tank 200. When the accumulated water production of the resin tank 200 reaches a preset single-tank water production threshold, the resin tank 200 is determined to have met the regeneration conditions. At this time, the system will start the regeneration process or mark it as a state to be regenerated.

[0075] In the series mode, the system accumulates the total water production of the two resin tanks 200. When the accumulated total water production reaches the preset total water production critical value, it is determined that the regeneration process needs to be started. At this time, the system will regenerate the two resin tanks 200 in sequence according to the predetermined order.

[0076] Specifically, the water production critical value of the first resin tank 200a is set as D1; the water production critical value of the second resin tank 200b is set as D2, and the total water production critical value of the two resin tanks 200 in the series state is set as D T , and the cumulative value of the flowmeter of the water softener 10 is d.

[0077] If the water softener 10 supplies water in the one-use-one-backup mode: Under the working condition of the first resin tank 200a, when the measured value d of the flowmeter < D1, the first resin tank 200a continues to work, and the second resin tank 200b is in standby. When the measured value of the flowmeter d = D1, the second resin tank 200b switches from standby to working, and the first resin tank 200a enters the regeneration timing determination. The regeneration water consumption of the first resin tank 200a is included in the water production of the second resin tank 200b; Under the working condition of the second resin tank 200b, when the measured value d of the flowmeter < D1, the second resin tank 200b continues to work, and the first resin tank 200a is in standby. When the measured value of the flowmeter d = D1, the first resin tank 200a switches from standby to working, and the second resin tank 200b enters the regeneration timing determination. The regeneration water consumption of the second resin tank 200b is included in the water production of the first resin tank 200a.

[0078] If the water softener 10 supplies water in the series mode: When the measured value d of the flowmeter < D T , the two tanks continue to work. When the measured value d of the flowmeter = D T , the regeneration timing determination is entered. If regeneration is entered, the first resin tank 200a is regenerated, and the second resin tank 200b is in the working state. When the first resin tank 200a finishes regeneration, it immediately switches to the working state, and the second resin tank 200b starts to regenerate. When the second resin tank 200b finishes regeneration, it will switch to the working state, and the two tanks continue to supply water in series.

[0079] If the water softener 10 supplies water in the parallel mode: In the parallel mode of the water softener 10, in an optional control method, the water consumption is only accumulated and does not trigger the critical value determination. After exiting the parallel mode, the critical value determination is performed to determine whether to regenerate. In another optional control method, the method for triggering the regeneration timing determination of the water consumption is similar to that in the series mode of water supply, that is, the total water production critical value of the two resin tanks 200 in the parallel state is set as D M ; when the measured value d of the flowmeter < D MAt that time, both tanks continued to operate. When the flow meter reading d=D M When the regeneration timing is determined, the first resin tank 200a regenerates while the second resin tank 200b operates. Once the first resin tank 200a completes regeneration, it immediately enters operating mode, and the second resin tank 200b begins regeneration. Once the second resin tank 200b completes regeneration, it enters operating mode, and both tanks continue to supply water in parallel.

[0080] When the water softener 10 switches from a single-use / single-standby mode to a parallel mode and then back to a single-use / single-standby mode, the total water production of one resin tank 200 is d1 + Xd2; the total water production of the other resin tank 200 is (1-X)×d2; where d1 is the water production in the single-use / single-standby mode, d2 is the water production in the parallel mode, and X is a distribution coefficient between 0 and 1. Here, the distribution coefficient X is introduced to establish a scientific water production distribution model. X is related to the flow ratio of the two resin tanks 200 in parallel operation. Optionally, based on the flow ratio of the two resin tanks 200, X can be set to 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, or other values ​​between 0 and 1.

[0081] If the first resin tank 200a is operating in the one-use-one-standby mode, the total water consumption under the one-use-one-standby mode is d1, and the total water consumption under the parallel mode is d2. Then the cumulative water consumption of the first resin tank 200a is d1+Xd2, and the cumulative water consumption of the second resin tank 200b is (1-X)×d2.

[0082] When the water consumption of the first resin tank 200a is (d1+Xd2)≥D1, if it is in parallel mode, regeneration will not be triggered. When it returns to the one-in-one-out standby mode, the second resin tank 200b will enter the working state, and the first resin tank 200a will enter the regeneration judgment. After the second resin tank 200b enters the working state, the water production will start to be measured from (1-X)×d2. When the water consumption of the second resin tank 200b is (1-X)×d2≥D2, if it is in parallel mode, regeneration will not be triggered. When it returns to the one-in-one-out standby mode, the first resin tank 200a will enter the working state, and the second resin tank 200b will enter the regeneration judgment. After the first resin tank 200a enters the working state, the water production rate will start to be measured from d1+Xd2. If the second resin tank 200b is working in the one-use-one-standby mode, the water production statistics logic is the same as above, and will not be repeated.

[0083] By introducing the allocation coefficient X, the system can rationally distribute the permeate volume in parallel mode to the two resin tanks 200 according to the actual flow rate ratio, reducing metering deviations caused by mode switching. This ensures that the regeneration timing of each resin tank 200 is based on its actual processing load, preventing premature failure of one resin tank 200 due to overload and avoiding waste of exchange capacity caused by insufficient load in the other resin tank 200. Thus, at the system level, this achieves effective utilization of resin exchange capacity, extends resin lifespan, and improves the economic efficiency of system operation.

[0084] To meet users' high water flow demands, the water softener 10 has switched from a series mode to a parallel mode. The cumulative metering method for the two resin tanks 200 remains unchanged, and the total water production threshold value is D. T The flow meter reading remains unchanged. The flow meter reading is d = D. T In parallel mode, regeneration is not triggered; when the water softener 10 switches from parallel mode to series mode, the regeneration timing is determined.

[0085] In some embodiments, after determining that a resin tank 200 has reached the regeneration conditions, the control method further includes: Real-time monitoring of inlet water pressure; If the inlet water pressure exceeds the preset first pressure threshold, the regeneration process of the resin tank 200 will be started immediately. If the inlet water pressure is lower than the first pressure threshold, the regeneration process will be delayed until the predicted low water usage period.

[0086] Optionally, if the inlet water pressure is between a first pressure threshold and a preset second pressure threshold, the regeneration process will be delayed until a predicted low water usage period; if the inlet water pressure is below the second pressure threshold, the regeneration process will be delayed until a predicted low water usage period, and the user will be reminded that the inlet water pressure is too low. The second pressure threshold is lower than the first pressure threshold.

[0087] This embodiment introduces inlet water pressure as a key judgment parameter to achieve more intelligent regeneration scheduling. Specifically, after determining that a certain resin tank 200 has reached the regeneration conditions, regeneration is not immediately initiated. Instead, it is combined with real-time monitoring of the inlet water pressure of the system. Based on the monitored pressure value, the system will adopt different regeneration strategies: When the inlet water pressure is higher than the preset first pressure threshold, it indicates that the water supply in the pipeline is sufficient, and the system immediately starts the regeneration process of the resin tank 200. At this time, the regeneration process can obtain sufficient water flow power to ensure the regeneration effect.

[0088] When the inlet water pressure is between the first pressure critical value and the lower second pressure critical value, it indicates that the water supply pressure is at a medium level. At this time, the system does not immediately perform regeneration. Instead, according to the water usage statistical records, the regeneration process is delayed until the predicted nearest low water usage period is reached. If the system is already in the low water usage period, it waits for the flow meter to stop measuring and enter the countdown, and then starts the regeneration.

[0089] Specifically, the pressure critical values, namely the first pressure critical value P1 and the second pressure critical value P2 (P1 > P2), are preset in the water softener 10, and the real-time detection value of the pressure sensor is P. When the water usage triggers the regeneration condition: In the one-use-one-backup mode: when the pressure detection value P ≥ P1, regeneration can be immediately performed. When the pressure detection value P2 < P < P1, the regeneration time is postponed to the nearest short water usage period according to the water usage statistical records. If it is already in the short water usage period, it waits for the flow meter to stop measuring and enter the countdown T, and then starts the regeneration.

[0090] When P ≤ P2, the regeneration time is also postponed to the nearest short water usage period according to the water usage statistical records. If it is already in the short water usage period, it waits for the flow meter to stop measuring and enter the countdown T, and then starts the regeneration. At the same time, it reminds the user that the inlet water pressure is too low.

[0091] In some embodiments, in the series mode, when it is determined that the regeneration process needs to be started, the control method further includes: reaching the preset regeneration time point; at the regeneration time point, when it is detected that there is no signal of the inlet water flow within the continuous set duration, the regeneration processes for the two resin tanks 200 are immediately started in sequence. In this embodiment, after the system determines that the regeneration process needs to be started, it does not immediately perform the regeneration operation, but introduces double judgment conditions of time and flow. First, it waits for the system to reach the preset regeneration time point, which is usually set in the low water usage periods such as at night. When reaching this regeneration time point, the system detects the inlet water flow signal. When it is confirmed that no inlet water flow signal is detected within the continuous set duration, the regeneration processes for the two resin tanks 200 are immediately started in sequence.

[0092] Specifically, in the series mode: regeneration is not immediately triggered. When the set time is reached and the inlet flow meter detects no flow signal within the set time, regeneration is immediately performed. The regeneration operation sequence regenerates in sequence according to the preset tank number sequence. If a signal is detected by the flow meter when the set time is reached, the water supply state is maintained and waited until the duration of no signal from the flow meter meets the software set duration condition, and then the regeneration program is immediately entered for regeneration in sequence.

[0093] In parallel mode: one option is to ensure water supply without triggering regeneration. After exiting parallel mode, regeneration is determined according to the regeneration conditions of the operating mode after exiting parallel mode. Another option is the same as the regeneration triggering method in the series mode described above, which will not be repeated here.

[0094] In some embodiments, the control method further includes an intelligent mode that adapts to the user's water usage habits. Specifically, in conjunction with... Figure 19 As shown. The control method also includes a combination adjustment step for the operating mode and salt consumption mode: Based on the initial average daily water consumption and influent hardness value, the theoretical regeneration cycle days are determined under different combinations of working modes and salt consumption modes. The theoretical regeneration cycle number of days is compared with at least one preset critical number of days; Based on the comparison results, the system automatically selects and sets the initial combination of operating mode and salt consumption mode for the water softener 10. During system operation, actual water usage data is continuously collected, and the actual regeneration cycle days are updated accordingly. The actual regeneration cycle days are compared with the preset critical number of days, and the combination configuration of working mode and salt consumption mode is dynamically adjusted to keep the system in an optimal operating state.

[0095] In some embodiments, dynamically adjusting the combination of operating mode and salt consumption mode includes: Multiple combination modes are pre-defined by combining working mode and salt consumption mode, and a high-low order is set for the combination modes; If the actual regeneration cycle days after the update are lower than the first preset number of days threshold, the current combination mode will be adjusted to a later combination mode in the sequence. If the actual regeneration cycle days after the update are higher than the second preset day threshold, the current combination mode will be adjusted to the earlier combination mode in the sequence. The second preset number of days threshold is greater than the first preset number of days threshold.

[0096] Specifically, the operating modes include the aforementioned one-in-one-standby mode, series mode, and parallel mode: In the one-in-one-standby mode, one resin tank 200 is in softening operation while the other resin tank 200 is in standby mode without water supply. When the operating resin tank 200 is ready for regeneration, the standby resin tank 200 switches to operation first, and then the other tank begins regeneration, alternating in this manner. In the series mode, raw water passes through both resin tanks 200 sequentially, and then softened water is supplied from the outlet 114. Regeneration is performed sequentially according to a preset tank number order. In the parallel mode, the inlet 113 simultaneously supplies water to both resin tanks 200, and both tanks soften simultaneously and supply water from the outlet 114 simultaneously. In this mode, regeneration can be enabled. The operating mode levels are ranked from highest to lowest: Parallel mode > Series mode > One-in-one-standby mode.

[0097] The salt consumption modes include high-efficiency mode, normal mode, and high-water-production mode. High-efficiency mode uses the least amount of salt per liter of resin for regeneration compared to the other modes, achieving the highest total hardness removal effect with the least amount of salt. Normal mode uses the normal amount of salt per liter of resin for regeneration, producing more soft water under the same influent hardness conditions. High-water-production mode aims to maximize the total amount of softened water produced, using a larger amount of salt per liter of resin for regeneration to produce the most softened water under the same influent hardness conditions. Specifically, the salt consumption range per unit of resin for regeneration can be preset to differentiate between the three modes, with the salt consumption from highest to lowest being: High-water-production mode > Normal mode > High-efficiency mode. The salt consumption modes (10 salt consumption per unit of resin for the water softener) are ranked from highest to lowest as follows: High-water-production mode > Normal mode > High-efficiency mode. Optionally, based on the salt consumption range per unit of resin regeneration, more modes can be included in the salt consumption mode.

[0098] The combination modes include one-on-one standby high-efficiency mode, one-on-one standby normal mode, one-on-one standby high-yield mode, series high-efficiency mode, series normal mode, and series high-yield mode. The corresponding levels from high to low are: series high-yield mode > series normal mode > series high-efficiency mode > one-on-one standby high-yield mode > one-on-one standby normal mode > one-on-one standby high-efficiency mode.

[0099] First, based on the initial daily average water consumption A input by the user and the inlet water hardness value X (where A can be input by the user or preset by the program, and X can be collected or preset by the program), combined with the pre-stored combination parameters of different working modes and salt consumption modes, calculate the corresponding theoretical cycle water production values such as D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, etc. Divide each theoretical cycle water production by the initial daily average water consumption A to obtain the corresponding theoretical regeneration cycle days such as C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, etc. The system compares these theoretical regeneration cycle days with the preset regeneration interval day critical values (the first preset day critical value B1 and the second preset day critical value B2), where B2 > B1. By comparing each C value with B1 in turn, when the C value is first greater than B1, the combination mode corresponding to this C value is determined as the initial operating mode of the water softener 10.

[0100] During operation, the system continuously monitors the actual water usage data and updates to obtain the actual regeneration cycle days C. According to the comparison results with the critical values B1 and B2, it dynamically adjusts the operating mode: if B2 ≥ C ≥ B1, the current salt consumption mode remains unchanged; if C < B1, the current combination is adjusted to a higher gear; if C > B2, the current combination is adjusted to a lower gear. During the gear adjustment process, if the highest salt consumption mode cannot meet the conditions within a single working mode, it switches to a higher-order working mode and starts the optimization process from its lowest salt consumption mode, forming a spiral upward optimization path of the working mode and salt consumption mode; otherwise, a spiral downward optimization path is formed. That is to say, during the dynamic adjustment, if the updated actual regeneration cycle days C are lower than the first preset day critical value B1, the current combination state is adjusted to a combination state further back in the sequence; if the updated actual regeneration cycle days C are higher than the second preset day critical value B2, the current combination state is adjusted to a combination state further forward in the sequence.

[0101] Through the permutation and combination of the working mode and salt consumption mode, a complete solution spectrum covering different water quality hardness and water consumption requirements is formed. Then, through the precise comparison of the theoretical regeneration cycle days and the critical values, the accurate positioning and intelligent switching of the combination mode are achieved, which not only effectively ensures that appropriate water softening treatment capabilities can be provided under each working condition, but also ensures that the system always operates near a relatively appropriate energy efficiency point, thus achieving the balance between the treatment effect and operating economy.

[0102] This system also has a big data self-correction function. During operation, it collects water usage characteristic data such as the daily average water consumption A1, the daily average water flow rate F, and the peak water flow rate H, and replaces the initially set empirical value A with the actually measured daily average water consumption A1, and re-executes the above judgment process to achieve self-optimization based on actual usage habits.

[0103] In some embodiments, the control method further includes a parallel mode switching step based on water flow rate: If the average daily water flow exceeds the preset flow threshold, control the water softener 10 to switch to parallel mode; or, if the peak water flow exceeds the flow threshold and the total duration or frequency of the occurrence exceeds the preset limit, control the water softener 10 to switch to parallel mode. In parallel mode, and when the average daily water flow is less than or equal to the flow threshold, the water softener 10 is controlled to switch back to the one-in-one-backup mode or series mode before the switch; or, in parallel mode, and when the peak water flow is less than or equal to the flow threshold, and the total duration or frequency exceeds the preset limit, the water softener 10 is controlled to switch back to the one-in-one-backup mode or series mode before the switch.

[0104] Specifically, the control module continuously monitors and analyzes water usage data, including calculating the average daily water flow rate F and capturing peak water flow rate H. The system has a preset flow rate threshold V, which serves as a benchmark for determining whether a high-flow-rate water supply mode needs to be activated.

[0105] When the control module detects through analysis that the average daily water flow rate F exceeds the preset flow rate threshold V, or that the peak water flow rate H exceeds V frequently (i.e., the cumulative duration exceeds the time limit set in the program, or the frequency exceeds the frequency limit set in the program), this indicates that the user has a stable or intermittent high-flow-rate water demand. At this time, the control module will immediately issue a command to move at least one of the first piston 122 and the second piston 152, switching the water softener 10's operating mode to parallel mode. This switching can be set to have the highest priority; regardless of whether the water softener 10 is currently in a one-in-one-backup mode or a series mode, it can be directly interrupted and immediately switched to parallel mode to prioritize ensuring the instantaneous water supply demand. In this case, parallel mode operates as the basic mode; that is, after the regeneration conditions are met in parallel mode, regeneration can be performed like in series mode (by selecting a suitable period of no water use).

[0106] After entering parallel mode, the system continues to monitor water flow characteristics. When data analysis indicates that the user's water usage habits have returned to normal, i.e., the average daily water flow F drops to less than or equal to the flow threshold V, or the peak water flow H is less than or equal to V frequently (i.e., its duration exceeds the preset duration limit, or its frequency exceeds the frequency limit), the control module determines that the high flow demand has subsided. Subsequently, it controls at least one of the first piston 122 and the second piston 152 to move, causing the water softener 10 to exit parallel mode and automatically switch back to the one-in-one-standby mode or series mode that it was operating before entering parallel mode.

[0107] Furthermore, this process possesses self-learning and optimization capabilities. During long-term operation, the control module continuously collects water usage characteristic data, such as average daily water flow F, peak water flow H, and their frequency. Through analysis of this big data, the system can more accurately understand the user's water usage patterns and dynamically optimize the flow threshold V and related frequency and duration limits, thereby making the triggering and termination of parallel mode more precise and aligned with the user's actual usage scenarios.

[0108] In the description of this application, exceeding a certain threshold includes cases that are equal to or greater than the threshold.

[0109] In the description of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0110] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0111] The embodiments, implementation methods, and related technical features of this application can be combined and substituted for each other without conflict.

[0112] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application in any way. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of this application without departing from the scope of the technical solution of this application shall still fall within the scope of the technical solution of this application.

Claims

1. A control valve (100), characterized in that, For connecting two resin tanks (200), the control valve (100) includes: The valve body (110) is provided with a first valve chamber (111) and a second valve chamber (112); A first control component (120) is disposed in the first valve chamber (111) and includes a first grille (121) and a first piston (122) housed in the first grille (121). The first grille (121) divides the first valve chamber (111) axially and forms a plurality of first chambers (130). The first piston (122) is axially movable to change the communication relationship between the plurality of first chambers (130). The second control component (150) is disposed in the second valve chamber (112) and includes a second grille (151) and a second piston (152) housed in the second grille (151). The second grille (151) axially divides the second valve chamber (112) and forms a plurality of second chambers (160). The second piston (152) is axially movable to change the communication relationship between the plurality of second chambers (160). The first piston (122) and the second piston (152) are configured to combine to form multiple water circuit connection states by moving axially, so that the control valve (100) has a series mode, a parallel mode and a one-in-one-out-of-service mode; In the series mode, the control valve (100) is used to control the two resin tanks (200) to supply water in series; in the parallel mode, the control valve (100) is used to control the two resin tanks (200) to supply water in parallel; in the one-in-one-out mode, the control valve (100) is used to control the water supply of one of the two resin tanks (200).

2. The control valve (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve body (110) is also provided with an inlet (113) and an outlet (114); the plurality of first chambers (130) include a first inlet chamber (131) for communicating with the inlet (113), a first outlet chamber (132) for communicating with the outlet (114), a first connecting chamber (134) for communicating with a resin tank (200) processing chamber (210), a second connecting chamber (135) for communicating with the central tube (220) of the resin tank (200), a third connecting chamber (136) for communicating with another resin tank (200) processing chamber (210), a fourth connecting chamber (137) for communicating with another resin tank (200) central tube (220), and a first water passage chamber (133); The plurality of second chambers (160) include a second water inlet chamber (161) communicating with the first water inlet chamber (131) and a second water passage chamber (163) communicating with the first water passage chamber (133).

3. The control valve (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, In the series mode, the first water passage cavity (133) is connected to the first connecting cavity (134), the second connecting cavity (135) is connected to the third connecting cavity (136), the fourth connecting cavity (137) is connected to the first water outlet cavity (132), and the second water inlet cavity (161) is connected to the second water passage cavity (163). In the parallel mode, the first water inlet chamber (131) is connected to the first connecting chamber (134) and the third connecting chamber (136), and the first water outlet chamber (132) is connected to the second connecting chamber (135) and the fourth connecting chamber (137). In the one-in-use-one-standby mode, the first water inlet chamber (131) is connected to the first connecting chamber (134) and isolated from the third connecting chamber (136), and the first water outlet chamber (132) is connected to the second connecting chamber (135) and isolated from the fourth connecting chamber (137); or, the first water inlet chamber (131) is connected to the third connecting chamber (136) and isolated from the first connecting chamber (134), and the first water outlet chamber (132) is connected to the fourth connecting chamber (137) and isolated from the second connecting chamber (135).

4. The control valve (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The plurality of first chambers (130) further include a third water passage chamber (138) communicating with the second connecting chamber (135), a fourth water passage chamber (139) communicating with the third connecting chamber (136), and a fifth water passage chamber (140); The plurality of second chambers (160) further include a second water outlet chamber (162) connected to the first water outlet chamber (132), a drain chamber (164) connected to the drain outlet (117) of the valve body (110), and a brine suction chamber (165) connected to the fifth water passage chamber (140). The brine suction chamber (165) is used to connect to the brine suction outlet of the brine suction jet (180), and the second water outlet chamber (162) is used to provide a power water source for the brine suction jet (180).

5. The control valve (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The control valve (100) also has a regeneration mode, which is configured to form a water circuit connection state corresponding to the regeneration in the one-in-one-outstand mode, so that the two resin tanks (200) are regenerated respectively. The regeneration includes brine absorption, backwashing, and water injection. During the brine absorption and backwashing: The first inlet chamber (131) is connected to the first connecting chamber (134) and isolated from the third connecting chamber (136); the first outlet chamber (132) is connected to the second connecting chamber (135) and isolated from the fourth connecting chamber (137); the fourth water passage chamber (139) is connected to the first water passage chamber (133); the second water passage chamber (163) is connected to the sewage discharge chamber (164); and the fifth water passage chamber (140) is connected to the fourth connecting chamber (137); or, The first water inlet chamber (131) is connected to the third connecting chamber (136) and isolated from the first connecting chamber (134); the first water outlet chamber (132) is connected to the fourth connecting chamber (137) and isolated from the second connecting chamber (135); the first connecting chamber (134) is connected to the first water passage chamber (133); the second water passage chamber (163) is connected to the sewage discharge chamber (164); and the fifth water passage chamber (140) is connected to the third water passage chamber (138).

6. The control valve (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The fourth water passage cavity (139), the first water passage cavity (133), the first connecting cavity (134), the first water inlet cavity (131), the third connecting cavity (136), the second connecting cavity (135), the first water outlet cavity (132), the fourth connecting cavity (137), the fifth water passage cavity (140), and the third water passage cavity (138) are arranged sequentially along the axial direction; and / or, The sewage discharge chamber (164), the second water passage chamber (163), the second water inlet chamber (161), the second water outlet chamber (162), and the brine absorption chamber (165) are arranged sequentially along the axial direction.

7. The control valve (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The plurality of second chambers (160) further include a bypass chamber (166) and a second outlet chamber (162) communicating with the first outlet chamber (132). The bypass chamber (166) is disposed between the second inlet chamber (161) and the second outlet chamber (162). The control valve (100) also has a bypass mode. In the bypass mode, the bypass chamber (166) is communicating with the second inlet chamber (161) and the second outlet chamber (162) respectively.

8. The control valve (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first valve chamber (111) and the second valve chamber (112) are arranged horizontally side by side.

9. The control valve (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The valve body (110) is also provided with a plurality of flow passages (170), and the first valve chamber (111) is connected to the second valve chamber (112) through the flow passages (170); The first water inlet chamber (131) is connected to the second water inlet chamber (161) through a flow passage (170), the first water outlet chamber (132) is connected to the second water outlet chamber (162) through a flow passage (170), and the first water passage chamber (133) is connected to the second water passage chamber (163) through a flow passage (170).

10. The control valve (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The valve body (110) is provided with a first connector (115) and a second connector (116); the first connector (115) is located at the bottom of the valve body (110) and is used to connect to one of the resin tanks (200); the second connector (116) is located on the side of the valve body (110) and is located on the opposite side of the inlet (113) and outlet (114) and is used to connect to another resin tank (200).

11. A water softener (10), characterized in that, include: The control valve (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, and, Two resin tanks (200) are connected to the control valve (100) respectively.

12. A control method, characterized in that, Applied to the water softener (10) as described in claim 11, the control method includes: Obtain at least one parameter related to water usage conditions; Based on the at least one parameter, the first piston (122) and the second piston (152) of the control valve (100) are controlled to move, so as to automatically switch the water softener (10) to one of the following modes: series mode, parallel mode, and one-in-one-out-of-service mode.

13. The control method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The method of controlling the movement of the first piston (122) and the second piston (152) of the control valve (100) based on the at least one parameter to automatically switch the water softener (10) to one of the following modes: series mode, parallel mode, and one-in-one-out-of-use mode: Obtain the hardness value of the incoming water; The influent hardness value is compared with a preset hardness threshold value; When the inlet water hardness value is greater than or equal to the hardness threshold value, the water softener (10) is controlled to operate in the series mode; When the hardness value of the incoming water is less than the hardness threshold value, the water softener (10) is controlled to operate in the one-in-one-out-of-use mode.

14. The control method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The control method further includes: In the one-in-one-out mode or the series mode, the influent flow rate is monitored in real time; If the water inflow rate is continuously exceeded by a preset flow threshold and the duration reaches a preset duration, the water softener (10) is controlled to switch to the parallel mode. In the parallel mode, and when the influent flow rate is detected to be lower than the flow rate threshold and continues for a preset delay time, the water softener (10) is controlled to switch back to the one-in-one-out mode or the series mode before the switch.

15. The control method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The control method further includes a regeneration step, which comprises: The two resin tanks (200) of the water softener (10) in the one-in-one-out-of-use mode are controlled to regenerate respectively, so that one resin tank (200) performs the regeneration process and the other resin tank (200) produces water.

16. The control method according to claim 15, characterized in that, When one resin tank (200) performs the regeneration process, the water flow used for regeneration is soft water produced by another resin tank (200).

17. The control method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The control method further includes a regeneration timing determination step based on water consumption: In the one-use-one-standby mode, the water production of a single working resin tank (200) is accumulated, and when its water production reaches the preset single tank water production threshold, the resin tank (200) is determined to meet the regeneration conditions. In the series mode, the total water production of the two resin tanks (200) is accumulated, and when the total water production reaches the preset total water production threshold, it is determined that the regeneration process needs to be started.

18. The control method according to claim 17, characterized in that, When the water softener (10) switches from a single-use standby mode to a parallel mode, and then switches back to a single-use standby mode: The total water production of one resin tank (200) is d1 + Xd2; The total water production of the other resin tank (200) is (1-X)×d2; Where d1 is the water production in the one-in-one-out-of-service mode, d2 is the water production in the parallel mode, and X is the allocation coefficient between 0 and 1.

19. The control method according to claim 17, characterized in that, After determining that a resin tank (200) has reached the regeneration conditions, the control method further includes: If the inlet water pressure is higher than the preset first pressure threshold, the regeneration process of the resin tank (200) will be started immediately. If the inlet water pressure is lower than the first pressure threshold, the regeneration process will be delayed until the predicted low water usage period.

20. The control method according to claim 17, characterized in that, In the series mode, when it is determined that the regeneration process needs to be started, the control method further includes: The preset regeneration time point has been reached; If no signal is detected in the influent flow rate for a set duration at the regeneration time point, the regeneration process of the two resin tanks (200) will be started immediately in sequence.

21. The control method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The control method also includes a combined adjustment step for the operating mode and salt consumption mode: Based on the initial average daily water consumption and influent hardness value, the theoretical regeneration cycle days are determined under different combinations of working modes and salt consumption modes. The theoretical regeneration cycle number of days is compared with at least one preset number of days threshold; Based on the comparison results, the initial working mode and salt consumption mode combination are automatically selected and set for the water softener (10); during operation, the actual regeneration cycle days are updated according to the actual water consumption data, the actual regeneration cycle days are compared with the preset number of days threshold, and the working mode and salt consumption mode combination are dynamically adjusted accordingly.

22. The control method according to claim 21, characterized in that, The dynamic adjustment of the combination of the working mode and salt consumption mode includes: Multiple combination modes are pre-defined, consisting of a combination of working mode and salt consumption mode, and the combination modes are assigned a high or low order. If the actual regeneration cycle days after the update are lower than the first preset number of days threshold, the current combination mode will be adjusted to a later combination mode in the sequence. If the actual regeneration cycle days after the update are higher than the second preset day threshold, the current combination mode will be adjusted to the earlier combination mode in the sequence. The second preset number of days threshold is greater than the first preset number of days threshold.

23. The control method according to claim 12 or 21, characterized in that, The control method further includes a parallel mode switching step based on water flow rate: When the average daily water flow exceeds the preset flow threshold, the water softener (10) is controlled to switch to the parallel mode; or, when the peak water flow exceeds the flow threshold and the total duration or frequency of the occurrence exceeds the preset limit, the water softener (10) is controlled to switch to the parallel mode. In the parallel mode, and when the average daily water flow is less than or equal to the flow threshold, the water softener (10) is controlled to switch back to the one-in-one-backup mode or the series mode before the switch; or, in the parallel mode, and when the peak water flow is less than or equal to the flow threshold, and the total duration or frequency exceeds a preset limit, the water softener (10) is controlled to switch back to the one-in-one-backup mode or the series mode before the switch.

Images