Double-tank water softener and control method thereof

Abstract

The invention discloses a double-tank water softener and a control method thereof, and belongs to the technical field of water softening treatment.The double-tank water softener can flexibly adapt to different water use requirements, specifically, the double-tank water softener automatically enters a series connection mode during high-hardness water inflow, and the effluent quality is ensured through two-stage treatment; when large-flow water supply is needed, the parallel connection mode is automatically switched, so that the instantaneous peak water demand is met; under the normal condition, the system operates in a one-use and one-standby mode, so that alternate work of producing water by one resin tank and standby by the other resin tank is realized, and continuous soft water supply is guaranteed. Therefore, the defects that a traditional water softener is fixed in working mode and cannot automatically adapt to water quality and flow change are effectively overcome, and the continuous water supply quality can be improved while high-hardness water inlet and large-flow water supply are both considered.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of water softening technology, and in particular to a dual-tank water softener and its control method. 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] Current water softeners 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 dual-tank water softener and its control method, which can support the series connection, parallel connection, and one-in-use-one-backup water supply of two resin tanks, 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 dual-tank water softener is provided, comprising: Two resin tanks; A water circuit regulating component is connected to each of the two resin tanks to change the water circuit connection state through the two resin tanks; the water circuit control component is configured to form water circuit connection states corresponding to series mode, parallel mode, and one-in-one-out-of-service mode; in the series mode, the two resin tanks supply water in series; in the parallel mode, the two resin tanks supply water in parallel; in the one-in-one-out-of-service mode, one of the two resin tanks supplies water while the other is on standby. The control module is configured to control the water circuit regulating component based on at least one parameter related to the water usage conditions, so as to switch the water circuit connection state to one of the series mode, the parallel mode, and the one-in-one-out-of-use mode.

[0006] According to a second aspect of this application, a control method is provided, applied to a dual-tank water softener as described in any of the above embodiments, the control method comprising: Obtain at least one parameter related to water usage conditions; Based on the at least one parameter, the water circuit adjustment component is controlled to switch the water circuit connection state to one of the series mode, the parallel mode, and the one-in-one-out-of-service mode.

[0007] The dual-tank water softener of this application embodiment, by setting up a water circuit adjustment component and a control module, can automatically switch its operating mode according to actual water usage conditions. The control module controls the water circuit adjustment component based on at least one parameter related to the water usage conditions, allowing it to switch between three water circuit connection states: series mode, parallel mode, and one-in-one-backup mode. This enables the dual-tank water softener to flexibly adapt to different water usage needs: it automatically enters series mode when high-hardness influent water is present, ensuring SS quality through two-stage treatment; it automatically switches to parallel mode when a large flow rate is required to meet instantaneous peak water demand; and under normal circumstances, it operates in one-in-one-backup mode, achieving alternating operation of one resin tank producing water while the other remains on standby, ensuring a continuous supply of soft water. Therefore, it effectively overcomes the shortcomings of traditional water softeners with fixed operating modes and the inability to automatically adapt to changes in water quality and flow rate. It can simultaneously handle high-hardness influent water and large-flow water supply while improving the quality of continuous water supply.

[0008] The control method of this application embodiment acquires at least one parameter related to the water usage conditions and controls the operation of the water circuit adjustment component based on the parameter, thereby realizing the automatic switching of the dual-tank water softener between series mode, parallel mode, and one-in-one-standby mode. This method enables the dual-tank 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-standby mode enables alternating operation and regeneration preparation of the resin tanks. This significantly improves the adaptability of the dual-tank water softener to different water usage scenarios without manual intervention.

[0009] Other features and advantages of this application will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0010] 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.

[0011] 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.

[0012] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a dual-tank water softener structure provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal connections of a dual-tank water softener provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the water circuit connection state in the series mode of a dual-tank water softener structure provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the water circuit connection state in the parallel mode of a dual-tank water softener structure provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the water circuit connection state of a dual-tank water softener structure in a one-use-one-standby mode according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another water circuit connection state in the one-use-one-standby mode of the dual-tank water softener structure provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a dual-tank water softener provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a dual-tank valve structure provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path structure of a dual-tank valve provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path structure of a dual-tank water softener provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of a dual-tank water softener operating in series mode according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of a dual-tank water softener operating in parallel mode according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of a dual-tank water softener operating in a one-in-use-one-standby mode, according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of another flow path of a dual-tank water softener operating in a one-use-one-standby mode according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of a dual-tank water softener provided in one embodiment of the present application, operating with one tank supplying water and the other tank absorbing brine. Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of another flow path of a dual-tank water softener provided in one embodiment of this application, in which one tank supplies water and the other tank absorbs brine; Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of a dual-tank water softener provided in one embodiment of the present application, operating in a state where one tank supplies water and the other tank is backwashed; Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of another flow path for a dual-tank water softener provided in one embodiment of this application, where one tank supplies water and the other tank is backwashed. Figure 19This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of a dual-tank water softener provided in one embodiment of the present application, operating in a state where one tank supplies water and the other tank is used for washing. Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of another flow path of a dual-tank water softener provided in one embodiment of this application, in a state where one tank supplies water and the other tank is used for washing. Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of the dual-tank valve of a dual-tank water softener in the closed mode according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path of the dual-tank valve of a dual-tank water softener in bypass mode according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 23 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method for a dual-tank water softener according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of the intelligent mode of the dual-tank water softener control method according to an embodiment of this application; Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 10-Dual-tank water softener; 11-Water circuit regulating component; 12-Control module; 100-Dual-tank 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 grille; 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; 150 - Second control component; 151 - Second grid; 152 - Second piston; 160 - Second chamber; 161 - Second inlet chamber; 162 - Second outlet chamber; 163 - Second water passage chamber; 164 - Sewage discharge chamber; 165 - Brine suction chamber; 166 - Bypass chamber; 170 - Flow passage; 180 - Brine ejector; 190 - Crossover 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

[0013] 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.

[0014] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in the embodiment of this application, the dual-tank water softener 10 achieves intelligent dynamic adjustment of the connection relationship between the two resin tanks 200 through the coordinated work of the water circuit adjustment component 11 and the control module 12. It can realize the integration and intelligent switching of three working modes, namely series, parallel and one-in-use and one-in-standby, on the same device.

[0015] Please combine Figures 2 to 6 As shown, specifically, the dual-tank water softener 10 includes two resin tanks 200, a water circuit regulating component 11, and a control module 12. The two resin tanks 200 are the core units for performing ion exchange softening treatment, and are filled with water softening resin. Each resin tank 200 is provided with a processing chamber 210 and a central pipe 220. The water circuit regulating component 11 is the actuator for switching water circuit modes, and it is connected to the processing chambers 210 and central pipes 220 of the two resin tanks 200 respectively via pipes. The water circuit regulating component 11 is configured to form three different basic water circuit connection states, corresponding to three operating modes: like Figure 3 As shown, in series mode: In this mode, the water circuit regulating component 11 connects the two resin tanks 200 in series. The raw water flows through the first resin tank 200 and the second resin tank 200 in sequence, undergoing two-stage deep softening treatment. This mode is particularly suitable for scenarios with high influent water hardness and can significantly improve the quality of the effluent water.

[0016] like Figure 4 As shown, in parallel mode: In this mode, the water circuit regulating component 11 connects the two resin tanks 200 in parallel. Raw water is simultaneously, equally, or proportionally distributed to the two resin tanks 200, and the treated soft water is then combined and output. This mode can effectively multiply the instantaneous water production flow of the system to meet the demand for high-flow water during peak periods.

[0017] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the one-in-one-out-of-service mode: In this mode, the water circuit regulating component 11 controls only one of the two resin tanks 200 to be connected to the main water circuit and responsible for water production, while the other is isolated from the main water circuit and in standby mode. This mode mainly operates under normal working conditions, providing a basis for the alternating operation and regeneration of the resin tanks 200, ensuring the continuity of soft water supply.

[0018] The control module 12 can be integrated into the electrical control system of the dual-tank water softener 10, or it can be a standalone controller. The control module 12 is configured to acquire at least one parameter related to water usage conditions. These parameters are the basis for the system's intelligent decision-making. Typically, the at least one parameter includes, but is not limited to: the inlet water hardness value detected in real time by a hardness sensor or manually input by the user; the inlet water flow rate value monitored by a flow sensor; and the inlet water pressure value monitored by a pressure sensor.

[0019] Based on at least one acquired water usage parameter, the control module 12 issues a control command to the water circuit regulating component 11, driving it to operate and automatically switching the water circuit connection status of the entire water softener to the most suitable mode among the three modes: series mode, parallel mode, and one-in-one-out-of-use mode. The hardware of the control module 12 can be one or more microprocessors, microcontrollers, or application-specific integrated circuits.

[0020] For example, in areas with high-hardness incoming water, when the control module 12 determines that the water hardness is extremely high based on the incoming water hardness value, its control water circuit regulating component 11 switches to series mode, causing the raw water to flow sequentially through two resin tanks 200 for double deep softening, thereby ensuring stable and excellent output water quality. To address the instantaneous high-flow-rate water demand of households, such as when multiple water outlets are turned on simultaneously, when a continuous high-flow-rate water signal is detected, the control module 12 controls the water circuit regulating component 11 to simultaneously distribute the raw water to both resin tanks 200 for parallel processing, and then merge the softened water for output, greatly improving the instantaneous water supply capacity. Under normal water use conditions, when the hardness and flow rate are not too high, the control module 12 controls the water circuit regulating component 11 to put one resin tank 200 into water production operation, while the other resin tank 200 is in standby mode. When the working resin tank 200 is saturated and needs 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 and the other tank uses softened water for regeneration.

[0021] Therefore, this embodiment combines two resin tanks 200 with an intelligent control system, achieving adaptive matching of working mode and water usage scenario, effectively solving the technical problem of traditional water softeners having fixed functions and being unable to balance water quality and flow rate.

[0022] In some embodiments, the water flow regulating assembly 11 comprises a distributed valve system. Specifically, the water flow regulating assembly 11 includes multiple valves and multiple pipelines connecting these valves to the two resin tanks 200. These valves can be single-tank valves, with water flow regulation achieved through the combination of at least two single-tank valves; they can also be various on / off valves or regulating valves, such as solenoid valves, electric ball valves, etc.; or they can be ceramic disc valves. By setting the pipeline connection relationships between these valves and connecting them respectively to the processing chambers 210 and the central pipe 220 of the two resin tanks 200, a physical flow path capable of achieving series, parallel, and one-in-one-out modes can be constructed.

[0023] Control module 12 is connected to each of the aforementioned valves via circuit signals. Control module 12 internally stores valve opening and closing combination logic programs corresponding to the three operating modes. When control module 12 makes a mode switching decision based on water usage parameters, it executes the corresponding control program, issuing specific opening and closing commands to that group of valves. For example: When it is necessary to switch to the series mode, the control module 12 will output the first set of control signals to drive a specific combination of valves to open or close, thereby constructing a series water path that allows water to flow sequentially through the first resin tank 200a and the second resin tank 200b. Figure 3 (As shown).

[0024] When switching to parallel mode is required, the control module 12 will output a second set of different control signals to change the opening and closing state of the valve, thereby forming two independent parallel flow paths leading to the two resin tanks 200 respectively, and merging the effluent. Figure 4 (As shown).

[0025] When it is necessary to switch to a one-in-one-out-of-service mode, the control module 12 outputs a third set of control signals to manipulate the valve so that water flows only to one resin tank 200. For example Figure 5 The first resin tank 200a, as shown, has its outlet water connected to the system outlet, while all passages to the second resin tank 200b are disconnected, placing it in a standby state; or as... Figure 6 The second resin tank 200b shown is connected to the system outlet, while all passages of the first resin tank 200a are cut off, putting it in standby mode.

[0026] This distributed structure with multiple valves and multiple pipelines is particularly suitable for upgrading existing systems, or, where installation space permits, providing a water softener system that may be lower in cost and more intuitive to maintain.

[0027] Please refer to the following: Figure 7 and Figure 8In some embodiments, the water flow regulating assembly 11 is not composed of separate valves and pipes, but is integrated into a single dual-tank valve 100. The dual-tank valve 100 includes a valve body 110. Optionally, the valve body 110 is typically integrally molded from engineering plastics such as ABS, PP, or metal using injection molding or casting processes, thereby ensuring structural integrity and sealing reliability. Alternatively, it can be assembled in a detachable manner.

[0028] The valve body 110 is provided with a first connector 115 and a second connector 116. The first connector 115 is used for direct connection to a resin tank 200, such as... Figure 7 As shown, it is typically located at the bottom of the valve body 110, vertically connected to the resin tank 200 located directly below it. The second connector 116 is used to connect another resin tank 200; it is typically located on the side of the valve body 110, either on the side opposite to the inlet 113 and outlet 114, or on other sides. This bottom-and-side interface layout allows the two resin tanks 200 to connect to the dual-tank valve 100 from different directions, greatly optimizing the overall structure, reducing pipe interference, and making the equipment more flexible and compact to arrange in confined spaces such as under-sink areas.

[0029] In some embodiments, the control module 12 is directly mounted on the valve body 110 of the dual-tank valve 100 (not shown in the figure). This shortens the electrical and mechanical connection path between the control module 12 and the motor, etc., of the dual-tank valve 100, which not only improves the reliability and response speed of signal transmission, but also simplifies the internal wiring harness layout and enhances the overall integrity and assembly efficiency of the product.

[0030] The control module 12 is configured to directly control the dual-tank valve 100. By driving the piston and other components inside the dual-tank valve 100 to move, the connection relationship of its internal flow channels is changed, thereby ultimately achieving precise and reliable switching between the water circuit connection state in series, parallel and one-in-use-one-backup modes.

[0031] This embodiment provides a dual-tank water softener 10 solution with a highly compact structure, fewer connection points, low leakage risk, convenient installation, and efficient control by adopting an integrated dual-tank valve 100 and integrating the control module 12 on it.

[0032] In other embodiments, the control module 12 and the dual-tank valve 100 can also be set relatively independently.

[0033] Please refer to the following: Figure 8 and Figure 9The dual-tank valve 100 also includes a first control component 120 and a second control component 150. The valve body 110 has a first valve chamber 111 and a second valve chamber 112 inside. The 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 a plurality of sequentially arranged first chambers 130, and the first piston 122 changes the communication relationship between the first chambers 130 by axial movement. The 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 a plurality of sequentially arranged second chambers 160, and the second piston 152 changes the communication relationship between the second chambers 160 by axial movement.

[0034] The axial movement of the first piston 122 and the second piston 152 respectively allows them to have multiple different axial working positions. The control module 12 controls the combination of the first piston 122 and the second piston 152 in different axial working positions to change the connection relationship between multiple first chambers 130 and multiple second chambers 160, thereby forming multiple different water circuit connection states. This allows the dual tank valve 100 to have three working modes: series mode, parallel mode, and one-in-one-out-of-service mode.

[0035] It should be noted that the "axial working position" of the first piston 122 and the second piston 152 in the embodiments of this application refers to the axial position of the piston that enables a specific waterway connection state. This position can be a precise fixed point or a range with axial movement margin. That is, the piston is allowed to move within a certain tolerance or dynamic range, as long as it can establish and maintain the waterway connection relationship required for the corresponding mode.

[0036] In series mode, the dual-tank 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 and 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.

[0037] Thus, the embodiments of this application integrate three water supply modes through a single dual-tank valve 100 structure, significantly improving the adaptability of the soft water system to different water quality conditions and water demand.

[0038] Please refer to the following: Figure 9 and Figure 10 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 dual-tank water softener 10, the inlet 113 and the outlet 114 can be connected to the user's tap water network respectively.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] Please combine them together Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11As 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.

[0043] Specifically, one axial working position of the first piston 122 is the first main valve position, and one axial working position of the second piston 152 is the first auxiliary valve position. 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 11 The connected state shown realizes the waterway structure of the above-mentioned series mode.

[0044] Please combine them together Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 12 In 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.

[0045] Specifically, another axial working position of the first piston 122 is the second main valve position. 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, thus achieving the following: Figure 12 The connected state shown enables the waterway structure in the parallel mode described above.

[0046] Please combine them together Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 In the one-use-one-standby mode, two optional states are provided.

[0047] like Figure 13 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.

[0048] Specifically, another axial working position of the first piston 122 is the third main valve position. 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, thus achieving the following: Figure 13 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.

[0049] like Figure 14 As 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.

[0050] Specifically, another axial working position of the first piston 122 is the fourth main valve position. 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, thus achieving the following: Figure 14 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] Please refer to it again. Figure 9 and Figure 10 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 suction, 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 suction chamber 165, and a second water outlet chamber 162 communicating with the first water outlet chamber 132. The drain chamber 164 communicates with the drain port 117 of the valve body 110 and is responsible for discharging wastewater from the system during brine suction, backwashing, and forward washing processes. The brine suction chamber 165 communicates with the fifth water passage chamber 140 and is used to connect to the brine suction outlet of the brine suction jet 180; simultaneously, the second water outlet chamber 162 can be used to provide a power water source for the brine suction jet 180. This configuration allows the dual-tank valve 100 to utilize the negative pressure generated by the brine jet injector 180 to draw brine from the brine tank 300 and deliver it to the resin tank 200 that needs regeneration.

[0053] 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.

[0054] By adding the above structure, the function of the dual-tank 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 165, brine suction chamber 165, and sewage discharge chamber 164, the dual-tank valve 100 can guide the water flow to perform backwashing, brine suction, and forward washing operations.

[0055] Please combine them together Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 15 and Figure 16 The dual-tank water softener 10 also features a regeneration mode, which is an operation mode that regenerates the backup resin tank 200 based on the one-in-use-one-outstand mode. Furthermore, the control module 12 is configured to control the two resin tanks 200 to regenerate separately. Regeneration may include brine absorption, backwashing, and water injection.

[0056] Figure 15 The 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, another axial working position of the second piston 152 is the second auxiliary valve position. The second piston 152 can be moved to the second auxiliary valve position to achieve the above-described water circuit structure.

[0057] Figure 16 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.

[0058] Figure 17 The third regeneration state is demonstrated, namely the one-in-one-outstand 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. The other axial working position of the second piston 152 is the third auxiliary valve position. Figure 15 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.

[0059] Figure 18 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 supplies soft water. Figure 16 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.

[0060] Figure 19 The fifth regeneration state is demonstrated, namely the one-in-one-outstand mode, with 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. The other axial working position of the second piston 152 is the fourth auxiliary valve position. Figure 15 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.

[0061] Figure 20 The 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 16 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] Figure 21 The water circuit structure of the dual-tank valve 100 in the closed mode is shown. Another axial working position of the second piston 152 is the fifth auxiliary valve position. 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.

[0064] Please refer to it again. Figure 9 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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 dual-tank valve 100; secondly, the orderly arrangement of the chambers reduces the complexity of the internal flow channels and reduces water flow resistance.

[0067] 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 22 As shown, another axial working position of the second piston 152 is the sixth auxiliary valve position. When the dual-tank valve 100 switches to bypass mode, that is, when 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 dual-tank 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.

[0068] Please refer to them again. Figure 7 and Figure 8 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 8 The layout shown is horizontally parallel. The horizontally arranged valve chambers directly reduce the overall height of the valve body 110 in the vertical direction. Compared to traditional vertical stacking designs, this layout effectively reduces the vertical space occupied by the valve body 110, making the structure of the dual-tank valve 100 more flat and compact. This structural improvement allows the dual-tank water softener 10, which includes the dual-tank valve 100, to be more easily installed in locations 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.

[0069] Optionally, the valve body 110 is also provided with multiple flow passages 170. The first valve chamber 111 is connected to the second valve chamber 112 through the flow passages 170. 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 water passage chamber 133 is also connected to the second water passage 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. While maintaining the compactness of the valve body 110, the flow rate of the flow passages 170 is significantly increased, the system flow resistance is reduced, and the dual-tank valve 100 can handle a larger water flow rate per unit time, thereby further meeting the user's demand for large flow rates of soft water during peak water usage periods.

[0070] 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 dual-tank water softeners 10 cannot be installed in standard kitchen cabinets due to the excessive height of the valve body 110.

[0071] In some embodiments, a first connector 115 of the valve body 110 is located at the bottom of the valve body 110 and is used to connect 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, and is arranged on the opposite side of the inlet 113 and outlet 114, and is used to connect to another resin tank 200 on the side of the valve body 110. This makes full use of the interface space of the valve body 110, allowing the two resin tanks 200 to connect to the dual-tank valve 100 from the bottom and side, respectively. This effectively reduces pipe interference problems and also reduces the planar projection area required for installation, enabling the dual-tank water softener 10 system containing two resin tanks 200 to make more efficient use of confined spaces such as under-sink areas.

[0072] In addition, the dual-tank water softener 10 may also include Figure 1 The box shown can house the dual-can valve 100, resin tank 200, and other components.

[0073] Accordingly, this application also provides a control method applied to the aforementioned dual-tank water softener 10. For example... Figure 23 As shown, the control method includes: Obtain at least one parameter related to water usage conditions; Based on at least one parameter, the water circuit regulating component 11 is controlled to automatically switch the dual-tank water softener 10 to one of the following modes: series mode, parallel mode, and one-in-one-out-of-use mode.

[0074] Specifically, taking a dual-tank water softener 10 with a dual-tank valve 100 as an example (the distributed valve system using multiple valves and multiple pipelines is similar and will not be described again), firstly, at least one parameter related to the water usage conditions is acquired. This parameter includes 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 dual-tank 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 dual-tank valve 100 is changed, thereby driving the dual-tank water softener 10 to automatically switch between series mode, parallel mode, and one-in-one-out-of-service mode. This control method combines the hardware structure of the dual-tank water softener 10 with intelligent control logic, enabling the system to automatically select the optimal operating mode according to actual water usage conditions. This significantly improves the adaptability of the dual-tank water softener 10 to different water usage scenarios, optimizing system energy efficiency while ensuring water quality.

[0075] In some embodiments, based on at least one parameter, the movement of the first piston 122 and the second piston 152 of the dual-tank valve 100 is controlled to automatically switch the dual-tank 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 inlet water is greater than or equal to the hardness threshold, the dual-tank 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 dual-tank water softener 10 is controlled to operate in a one-in-use-one-standby mode.

[0076] The inlet water hardness value can be the actual measured value directly input by the user through the human-machine interface of the dual-tank 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 inlet 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 dual-tank water softener 10: if the inlet 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 inlet 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.

[0077] Specifically, the dual-tank water softener 10 is factory-set to a one-in-one-standby operating mode; the three-in-one mode automatic switching switch is also on by default. When the user inputs the hardness value A of the incoming water into the dual-tank water softener 10, it automatically compares it with the preset critical hardness value H. If A ≥ H, the dual-tank water softener 10 automatically switches to series mode; otherwise, it maintains the one-in-one-standby operating mode.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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 piston assembly is controlled to switch back to the one-in-one-out standby mode or series mode that was operating before entering parallel mode.

[0080] Specifically, in the one-in-use-one-standby mode, the dual-tank 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 dual-tank 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, within 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 dual-tank water softener 10 automatically switches back to the one-in-use-one-standby mode.

[0081] If the dual-tank 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 dual-tank 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 if the water flow rate is detected to be less than L2 again, the countdown D will restart. After the countdown D is complete, the dual-tank water softener 10 will automatically switch back to series mode.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] In the above embodiments, by introducing flow rate parameters as the second judgment dimension for mode switching, this solution enables the dual-tank 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.

[0085] In some embodiments, the control method further includes a regeneration step. Specifically, the control module 12 controls the dual-tank water softener 10 in a one-in-one-outstand mode to regenerate separately, so that one resin tank 200 performs the regeneration process while the other resin tank 200 remains in a water production state.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] In 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 threshold, it is determined that the regeneration process needs to be started. At this time, the system will regenerate the two resin tanks 200 in a predetermined order.

[0089] Specifically, the critical value for the water production of the first resin tank 200a is set to D1; the critical value for the water production of the second resin tank 200b is set to D2; and the critical value for the total water production of the two resin tanks 200 in series is set to D. T, the cumulative value of the flowmeter of the dual-tank water softener 10 is d.

[0090] If the dual-tank water softener 10 supplies water in the one-use-one-backup mode: Under the operating conditions of the first resin tank 200a, when the measured value d of the flowmeter is less than D1, the first resin tank 200a continues to operate, and the second resin tank 200b is on standby. When the measured value d of the flowmeter is equal to D1, the second resin tank 200b switches from standby to operation, 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 operating conditions of the second resin tank 200b, when the measured value d of the flowmeter is less than D1, the second resin tank 200b continues to operate, and the first resin tank 200a is on standby. When the measured value d of the flowmeter is equal to D1, the first resin tank 200a switches from standby to operation, 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.

[0091] If the dual-tank water softener 10 supplies water in the series mode: When the measured value d of the flowmeter is less than D T , both tanks continue to operate. When the measured value d of the flowmeter is equal to 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 operating state. After the first resin tank 200a finishes regeneration, it immediately switches to the operating state, and the second resin tank 200b starts to regenerate. After the second resin tank 200b finishes regeneration, it will switch to the operating state, and the two tanks continue to supply water in series.

[0092] If the dual-tank water softener 10 supplies water in the parallel mode: In the parallel mode of the dual-tank water softener 10, in an optionally controlled manner, the water consumption is only accumulated and does not trigger the critical value determination. Wait until exiting the parallel mode and then perform the critical value determination for regeneration. In another optionally controlled manner, 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 to D M ; when the measured value d of the flowmeter is less than D M , both tanks continue to operate. When the measured value d of the flowmeter is equal to D M , 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 operating state. After the first resin tank 200a finishes regeneration, it immediately switches to the operating state, and the second resin tank 200b starts to regenerate. After the second resin tank 200b finishes regeneration, it will switch to the operating state, and the two tanks continue to supply water in parallel.

[0093] When the dual-tank water softener 10 switches from a one-in-one-standby mode to a parallel mode and then back to a one-in-one-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-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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] When the water consumption of the first resin tank 200a is (d1+X×d2)≥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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] To meet users' high water flow demands, the dual-tank 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. d = D T In parallel mode, regeneration is not triggered; when the dual-tank water softener 10 switches from parallel mode to series mode, the regeneration timing is determined.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] When the inlet water pressure is between the first pressure threshold and a lower second pressure threshold, it indicates that the water supply pressure is at a moderate level. In this case, the system does not immediately perform regeneration; instead, based on water usage statistics, the regeneration process is delayed until the next predicted low-water period. If the system is already in a low-water period, regeneration will only begin after the flow meter stops measuring and begins its countdown.

[0102] Specifically, the dual-tank water softener 10 has preset pressure thresholds, namely a first pressure threshold P1 and a second pressure threshold P2 (P1>P2), and the pressure sensor detects the value as P in real time. When water consumption triggers the regeneration condition: In one-use-one-standby mode: When the pressure detection value P≥P1, regeneration can be performed immediately.

[0103] When the pressure detection value P2 < P < P1, according to the water usage statistics record, the regeneration time is postponed to the nearest short water usage period. If it is already in a short water usage period, wait until the flow meter stops measuring and enter the countdown T, and then start the regeneration.

[0104] When P ≤ P2, also according to the water usage statistics record, the regeneration time is postponed to the nearest short water usage period. If it is already in a short water usage period, wait until the flow meter stops measuring and enter the countdown T, and then start the regeneration. At the same time, remind the user that the inlet water pressure is too low.

[0105] In some embodiments, in the series mode, after determining that the regeneration process needs to be started, the control method further includes: reaching a preset regeneration time point; at the regeneration time point, if it is detected that there is no signal of the inlet water flow within a continuously set duration, immediately start the regeneration processes for the two resin tanks 200 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, wait for the system to reach the preset regeneration time point, which is usually set during 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 has been detected within the continuously set duration, immediately start the regeneration processes for the two resin tanks 200 in sequence.

[0106] Specifically, in the series mode: Do not immediately trigger regeneration. When the set time is reached and the inlet flow meter detects no flow signal within the set time, immediately perform regeneration. The regeneration operation sequence is to regenerate in sequence according to the preset tank number sequence. If a signal is detected by the flow meter when the set time is reached, maintain the water supply state and wait until the duration of no signal from the flow meter meets the software set duration condition, and immediately enter the regeneration program to regenerate in sequence.

[0107] In the parallel mode: One optional method is to ensure water usage and not trigger regeneration. After exiting the parallel mode, perform regeneration judgment according to the regeneration conditions of the working mode after exiting the mode. Another optional method is the same as the regeneration triggering method in the above series mode, which will not be repeated here.

[0108] In some embodiments, the control method further has an intelligent mode, which can adapt to the user's water usage habits. Specifically, as shown in Figure 24 The control method further includes a combined adjustment step of the working mode and the salt consumption mode: Based on the initial water usage amount and the inlet water hardness value, calculate the theoretical regeneration cycle days under different combinations of the working mode and the salt consumption mode; Compare the theoretical regeneration cycle days with at least one preset number critical value; Based on the comparison results, the system automatically selects and sets the initial combination of working mode and salt consumption mode for the dual-tank 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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 mode settings (for dual-tank water softeners with a 10-unit salt consumption) are ranked from highest to lowest as: High-water-production mode > Normal mode > High-efficiency mode. Optionally, based on the salt consumption range per unit of resin regeneration, the salt consumption modes can include more modes.

[0112] 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.

[0113] First, based on the initial average daily water consumption A and the influent water hardness value X (where A can be user-inputted or program-preset, and X can be collected data or program-preset), combined with pre-stored combination parameters of different working modes and salt consumption modes, the corresponding theoretical cycle water production values ​​D1, D2, D3, D4, and D5 are calculated. Each theoretical cycle water production value is divided by the initial average daily water consumption A to obtain the corresponding theoretical regeneration cycle days C1, C2, C3, C4, and C5. The system compares these theoretical regeneration cycle days with preset regeneration interval critical values ​​(first preset day critical value B1 and second preset day critical value B2), where B2 > B1. By comparing each C value with B1 sequentially, when a C value is found to be greater than B1 for the first time, the combination mode corresponding to that C value is determined as the initial operating mode of the dual-tank water softener 10.

[0114] During operation, the system continuously monitors the actual water consumption data and updates to obtain the actual regeneration cycle days C. Based on the comparison results with the critical values B1 and B2, it dynamically adjusts the operation 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 adjustment to the highest salt consumption mode within a single working mode still cannot meet the conditions, 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 for 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 is lower than the first preset days critical value B1, the current combination state is adjusted to a combination state that is further back in the sequence; if the updated actual regeneration cycle days C is higher than the second preset days critical value B2, the current combination state is adjusted to a combination state that is further forward in the sequence.

[0115] 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 critical values, the precise positioning and intelligent switching of the combination mode are achieved, effectively ensuring that appropriate soft water treatment capabilities can be provided under each working condition and that the system can always operate near a relatively appropriate energy efficiency point, thus achieving the balance between treatment effect and operation economy.

[0116] The system also has a big data self-correction function. During operation, it collects water consumption characteristic data such as the average daily water consumption A1, the average daily water flow rate F, and the peak water flow rate H, and replaces the initially set empirical value A with the actually measured average daily water consumption A1, and then re-executes the above judgment process to achieve self-optimization based on actual usage habits.

[0117] In some embodiments, the control method further includes a parallel mode switching step based on the water flow rate: When the average daily water flow rate is greater than the preset flow critical value, control the dual-tank water softener 10 to switch to the parallel mode; or, when the peak water flow rate is greater than the flow critical value and the total duration or frequency of occurrence exceeds the preset limit value, control the dual-tank water softener 10 to switch to the parallel mode; In the parallel mode, and when the average daily water flow rate is less than or equal to the flow critical value, control the dual-tank water softener 10 to switch back to the one-use-one-backup mode or the series mode before the switch; or, in the parallel mode, and when the peak water flow rate is less than or equal to the flow critical value and the total duration or frequency of occurrence exceeds the preset limit value, control the dual-tank water softener 10 to switch back to the one-use-one-backup mode or the series mode before the switch.

[0118] Specifically, the control module 12 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.

[0119] When the control module 12 detects through analysis that the average daily water flow F exceeds the preset flow threshold V, or that the peak water flow 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 12 will immediately issue a command to control the water circuit regulating component 11 to switch the working mode of the dual-tank water softener 10 to parallel mode. This switch can be set to have the highest priority; regardless of whether the dual-tank 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, the 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).

[0120] After entering parallel mode, the system continues to monitor water flow characteristics. When data analysis indicates that users' 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 the frequency exceeds the frequency limit), the control module 12 determines that the high flow demand has subsided. Subsequently, the system controls the water circuit adjustment component 11 to cause the dual-tank water softener 10 to exit parallel mode and automatically switch back to the one-in-one-standby mode or series mode that was running before entering parallel mode.

[0121] Furthermore, this process possesses self-learning and optimization capabilities. During long-term operation, control module 12 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 can be used to dynamically optimize the flow threshold V and related frequency and duration limits, thereby making the triggering and termination of parallel mode more precise and in line with the user's actual usage scenarios.

[0122] In the description of this application, exceeding a certain threshold includes cases that are equal to or greater than the threshold.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] The embodiments, implementation methods, and related technical features of this application can be combined and substituted for each other without conflict.

[0126] 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 twin-tank water softener (10) characterized by, The application relates to a water supply system, which comprises: two resin tanks (200); a water path adjusting assembly (11) connected with the two resin tanks (200) respectively and used for changing the water path connection state of the two resin tanks (200); the water path control assembly is configured to be capable of forming water path connection states corresponding to a series mode, a parallel mode and a one-for-one standby mode; in the series mode, the two resin tanks (200) are connected in series for water supply; in the parallel mode, the two resin tanks (200) are connected in parallel for water supply; in the one-for-one standby mode, one of the two resin tanks (200) is used for water supply and the other is standby; a control module (12) configured to control the water path adjusting assembly (11) based on at least one parameter related to a water use condition, so as to switch the water path connection state to one of the series mode, the parallel mode and the one-for-one standby mode.

2. The two-tank water softener (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that The water path adjusting assembly (11) comprises a plurality of valves and a plurality of pipelines, the valves and the pipelines are connected and connected with the two resin tanks (200) through the pipelines respectively; The control module (12) is configured to control the plurality of valves, so as to switch the water path connection state to one of the series mode, the parallel mode and the one-for-one standby mode.

3. The two-tank water softener (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that The water path adjusting assembly (11) comprises a double-tank valve (100) of an integrated structure, the double-tank valve (100) comprises a valve body (110), the valve body (110) is provided with a first joint (115) and a second joint (116), the first joint (115) is connected with one of the resin tanks (200), and the second joint (116) is connected with the other resin tank (200); The control module (12) is configured to control the double-tank valve (100), so as to switch the water path connection state to one of the series mode, the parallel mode and the one-for-one standby mode.

4. The two-tank water softener (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that The valve body (110) is further provided with a first valve cavity (111) and a second valve cavity (112); the double-tank valve (100) further comprises: a first control assembly (120) arranged in the first valve cavity (111) and comprising a first grid (121) and a first piston (122) accommodated in the first grid (121), the first grid (121) divides the first valve cavity (111) in the axial direction and forms a plurality of first chambers (130); a second control assembly (150) arranged in the second valve cavity (112) and comprising a second grid (151) and a second piston (152) accommodated in the second grid (151), the second grid (151) divides the second valve cavity (112) in the axial direction and forms a plurality of second chambers (160); The first piston (122) and the second piston (152) have a plurality of different axial working positions respectively, the control module (12) controls the combination of the different axial working positions of the first piston (122) and the second piston (152), changes the communication relationship between the plurality of first chambers (130) and the plurality of second chambers (160), so that the double-tank valve (100) forms different waterway connection states.

5. The two-tank water softener (10) according to claim 4, characterized in that The valve body (110) is also provided with a water inlet (113) and a water outlet (114); the plurality of first chambers (130) include a first water inlet chamber (131) for communicating with the water inlet (113), a first water outlet chamber (132) for communicating with the water outlet (114), a first connecting chamber (134) for communicating with a treatment chamber (210) of a resin tank (200), a second connecting chamber (135) for communicating with a central pipe (220) of the resin tank (200), a third connecting chamber (136) for communicating with a treatment chamber (210) of another resin tank (200), a fourth connecting chamber (137) for communicating with a central pipe (220) of the another resin tank (200), and a first water passing chamber (133). The plurality of second chambers (160) include a second water inlet chamber (161) for communicating with the first water inlet chamber (131), and a second water passing chamber (163) for communicating with the first water passing chamber (133).

6. The two-tank water softener (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that In the series mode, the first water passing chamber (133) communicates with the first connecting chamber (134), the second connecting chamber (135) communicates with the third connecting chamber (136), the fourth connecting chamber (137) communicates with the first water outlet chamber (132), and the second water inlet chamber (161) communicates with the second water passing chamber (163); In the parallel mode, the first water inlet chamber (131) communicates the first connecting chamber (134) and the third connecting chamber (136), and the first water outlet chamber (132) communicates the second connecting chamber (135) and the fourth connecting chamber (137); In the one active and one standby mode, the first water inlet chamber (131) communicates with the first connecting chamber (134) and is blocked from the third connecting chamber (136), and the first water outlet chamber (132) communicates with the second connecting chamber (135) and is blocked from the fourth connecting chamber (137); or, the first water inlet chamber (131) communicates with the third connecting chamber (136) and is blocked from the first connecting chamber (134), and the first water outlet chamber (132) communicates with the fourth connecting chamber (137) and is blocked from the second connecting chamber (135).

7. The two-tank water softener (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that The plurality of first chambers (130) further include a third water passing chamber (138) for communicating with the second connecting chamber (135), a fourth water passing chamber (139) for communicating with the third connecting chamber (136), and a fifth water passing chamber (140). The plurality of second chambers (160) further include a second water outlet chamber (162) in communication with the first water outlet chamber (132), a blowdown chamber (164) in communication with a blowdown port (117) of the valve body (110), and a salt suction chamber (165) in communication with the fifth water passage chamber (140), the salt suction chamber (165) being configured to communicate with a salt suction outlet of a salt suction jet (180), and the second water outlet chamber (162) being configured to provide a motive water source for the salt suction jet (180).

8. The two-tank water softener (10) according to claim 7, characterized in that The control module (12) is further configured to control the dual-tank valve (100) to form a water path connection state corresponding to a regeneration mode in the one active and one standby mode, so that the resin tank (200) in the standby state is regenerated; and the control module (12) is further configured to control the two resin tanks (200) to be regenerated respectively; The regeneration includes salt suction, backwashing and water injection, and during the salt suction and the backwashing: The first water inlet chamber (131) is in communication with the first connection chamber (134) and is blocked from the third connection chamber (136), the first water outlet chamber (132) is in communication with the second connection chamber (135) and is blocked from the fourth connection chamber (137); the fourth water passage chamber (139) is in communication with the first water passage chamber (133), the second water passage chamber (163) is in communication with the blowdown chamber (164), and the fifth water passage chamber (140) is in communication with the fourth connection chamber (137); or, The first water inlet chamber (131) is in communication with the third connection chamber (136) and is blocked from the first connection chamber (134), the first water outlet chamber (132) is in communication with the fourth connection chamber (137) and is blocked from the second connection chamber (135); the first connection chamber (134) is in communication with the first water passage chamber (133), the second water passage chamber (163) is in communication with the blowdown chamber (164), and the fifth water passage chamber (140) is in communication with the third water passage chamber (138).

9. The two-tank water softener (10) according to claim 7, characterized in that The fourth water passage chamber (139), the first water passage chamber (133), the first connection chamber (134), the first water inlet chamber (131), the third connection chamber (136), the second connection chamber (135), the first water outlet chamber (132), the fourth connection chamber (137), the fifth water passage chamber (140) and the third water passage chamber (138) are arranged in sequence along the axial direction; and / or, The blowdown chamber (164), the second water passage chamber (163), the second water inlet chamber (161), the second water outlet chamber (162) and the salt suction chamber (165) are arranged in sequence along the axial direction.

10. The two-tank water softener (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that The plurality of second chambers (160) further include a bypass chamber (166) and a second water outlet chamber (162) in communication with the first water outlet chamber (132), the bypass chamber (166) being arranged between the second water inlet chamber (161) and the second water outlet chamber (162); the double-tank valve (100) further has a bypass mode, in which the bypass chamber (166) is in communication with the second water inlet chamber (161) and the second water outlet chamber (162) respectively.

11. The two-tank water softener (10) according to claim 7, characterized in that The valve body (110) is further provided with a plurality of flow passages (170), and the first valve chamber (111) is in communication with the second valve chamber (112) through the flow passages (170); The first water inlet chamber (131) is in communication with the second water inlet chamber (161) through a flow passage (170), the first water outlet chamber (132) is in communication with the second water outlet chamber (162) through a flow passage (170), and the first water passage (133) is in communication with the second water passage (163) through a flow passage (170).

12. A control method characterized by, The control method is applied to the double-tank water softener (10) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, and the control method comprises: obtaining at least one parameter related to a water use condition; controlling the water path adjusting assembly (11) to switch the water path connection state to one of the series mode, the parallel mode and the one-use-one-backup mode based on the at least one parameter.

13. The control method according to claim 12, characterized by, controlling the water path adjusting assembly (11) to switch the water path connection state to one of the series mode, the parallel mode and the one-use-one-backup mode based on the at least one parameter, comprising: obtaining a water inlet hardness value; comparing the water inlet hardness value with a preset hardness threshold value; controlling the double-tank water softener (10) to operate in the series mode when the water inlet hardness value is greater than or equal to the hardness threshold value; controlling the double-tank water softener (10) to operate in the one-use-one-backup mode when the water inlet hardness value is less than the hardness threshold value.

14. The control method according to claim 13, characterized by, The control method further comprises: monitoring the water inlet flow rate in real time in the one-use-one-backup mode or the series mode; controlling the double-tank water softener (10) to switch to the parallel mode when the water inlet flow rate continuously exceeds a preset flow rate threshold value for a preset time length; controlling the double-tank water softener (10) to switch back to the one-use-one-backup mode or the series mode before switching when the water inlet flow rate is less than the flow rate threshold value and continuously for a preset delay time in the parallel mode.

15. The control method according to claim 12, characterized by, The control method further comprises a regeneration step, and the regeneration step comprises: controlling the double-tank water softener (10) in the one-use-one-backup mode to perform regeneration respectively, so that one resin tank (200) performs a regeneration process and the other resin tank (200) produces soft water.

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

17. The control method according to claim 12, wherein The control method further comprises a regeneration opportunity determination step triggered by water usage: In the one-by-one standby mode, the water production of a single working resin tank (200) is accumulated, and when the water production reaches a preset single-tank water production threshold, it is determined that the resin tank (200) reaches the regeneration condition; In the series mode, the total water production of the two resin tanks (200) is accumulated, and when the total water production reaches a 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 by, In the case where the double-tank water softener (10) is switched from one-by-one standby mode to parallel mode and then back to one-by-one 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 one-by-one standby mode, d2 is the water production in parallel mode, and X is a distribution coefficient between 0 and 1.

19. The control method according to claim 17, wherein After determining that a resin tank (200) reaches the regeneration condition, the control method further comprises: If the water inlet pressure is higher than a preset first pressure threshold, immediately start the regeneration process for the resin tank (200); If the water inlet pressure is lower than the first pressure threshold, delay the regeneration process to the predicted low water usage period.

20. The control method according to claim 17, wherein In the series mode, after determining that the regeneration process needs to be started, the control method further comprises: Reaching a preset regeneration time point; At the regeneration time point, if the water inlet flow is detected to have no signal for a continuous set duration, immediately start the regeneration process for the two resin tanks (200) in sequence.

21. The control method according to claim 12, wherein The control method further comprises a combination adjustment step of working mode and salt consumption mode: Based on the initial daily water usage and the water inlet hardness value, determine the theoretical regeneration cycle days under different combinations of working mode and salt consumption mode; Compare the theoretical regeneration cycle days with at least one preset day threshold; According to the comparison result, automatically select and set the initial combination of working mode and salt consumption mode for the double-tank water softener (10); during operation, update the actual regeneration cycle days according to the actual water usage data, compare the actual regeneration cycle days with the preset day threshold, and dynamically adjust the combination of working mode and salt consumption mode accordingly.

22. The control method according to claim 21, wherein The dynamic adjustment of the combination of working mode and salt consumption mode includes: Pre-set a plurality of combination modes formed by the combination of working mode and salt consumption mode, and set high and low order for the combination modes; If the updated actual regeneration cycle days are lower than a first preset day threshold, adjust the current combination mode to a combination mode that is later in the order; If the updated actual regeneration cycle days are higher than a second preset day threshold, adjust the current combination mode to a combination mode that is earlier in the order; Wherein the second preset day threshold is greater than the first preset day threshold.

23. The control method according to claim 12 or 21, characterized by, The control method further comprises a parallel mode switching step based on water flow: In the case that the daily average water consumption flow rate is greater than a preset flow rate threshold, the dual-tank soft water machine (10) is controlled to switch to the parallel mode; or in the case that the peak water consumption flow rate is greater than the flow rate threshold and the total time length or frequency of occurrence exceeds a preset limit, the dual-tank soft water machine (10) is controlled to switch to the parallel mode. In the parallel mode, and in the case that the daily average water consumption flow rate is less than or equal to the flow rate threshold, the dual-tank soft water machine (10) is controlled to switch back to the one-in-one-backup mode or the series mode before switching; or in the parallel mode, and in the case that the peak water consumption flow rate is less than or equal to the flow rate threshold and the total time length or frequency of occurrence exceeds a preset limit, the dual-tank soft water machine (10) is controlled to switch back to the one-in-one-backup mode or the series mode before switching.

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