Water heater

Abstract

The water heater comprises a device body, a supporting mechanism and a driving mechanism, the upper end of the device body is used for being rotatably installed on a wall, and an access hole is formed in the side, facing the wall, of the lower end of the device body; the supporting mechanism is movably arranged on the device body and located on the upper side of the access hole. The driving mechanism is arranged in the device body, connected with the supporting mechanism and used for driving at least part of the supporting mechanism to stretch out of the device body and abut against the wall so that the access hole can move in the direction away from the wall.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of water heater technology, and in particular relates to a water heater. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, the common installation method for water heaters is to fix the water heater to the wall. Although this arrangement saves space, it is particularly inconvenient when the side of the water heater facing the wall needs maintenance or repair. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application aims to address at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this application proposes a water heater that reduces maintenance and repair difficulty, lowers maintenance costs, improves maintenance efficiency, and enhances safety during the maintenance process.

[0004] This application provides a water heater, including:

[0005] The device body has an upper end for rotatable mounting on a wall, and an inspection port on the lower end facing the wall.

[0006] The support mechanism is movably mounted on the main body of the device and located above the inspection port;

[0007] A drive mechanism, located within the device body and connected to a support mechanism, is used to drive at least a portion of the support mechanism to extend outside the device body and push against the wall, causing the access port to move away from the wall.

[0008] According to the water heater of this application, the lower end of the water heater is provided with an access port. By using a drive mechanism to drive the support mechanism to extend out of the body and push against the wall, the body rotates around its upper end to move the access port away from the wall, thereby increasing the distance between the access port and the wall for operator access. This has at least the following beneficial effects:

[0009] 1. A single operator can easily complete the maintenance and repair of the water heater without additional manpower, reducing labor costs; 2. No need to completely disassemble the water heater, reducing safety hazards caused by moving heavy objects and ensuring the safety of operators; 3. Simplified maintenance process, reducing indirect costs caused by complex operations, such as time costs and possible damage repair costs; 4. Quick access to the inspection port speeds up fault diagnosis and repair, ensuring that the water heater can be restored to normal operation in a timely manner.

[0010] According to one embodiment of this application, the driving mechanism includes:

[0011] Driven component, connected to the support mechanism;

[0012] The power component has its output end connected to the driven component via power coupling, and its input end can rotate relative to the device body to drive the driven component to move in directions toward and away from the wall.

[0013] According to one embodiment of this application, the operating end of the power component is located on the outer surface of the device body, and the operating direction of the operating end is opposite to the direction in which the support mechanism moves outward from the device body.

[0014] According to one embodiment of this application, the outer surface of the device body is provided with an operating port, and the operating end of the power component is located inside the operating port, with the operating port facing away from the wall.

[0015] According to one embodiment of this application, the power member and the driven member are arranged at an angle, and the drive mechanism further includes a transmission assembly, through which the power member is dynamically coupled to the driven member.

[0016] According to one embodiment of this application, the driven member includes a screw, the output end of the power member is provided with a first helical portion, and the transmission assembly includes:

[0017] A threaded sleeve rod is rotatably installed inside the device body around its axis. The threaded sleeve rod is sleeved outside the screw rod and is threadedly engaged with the screw rod. The outer side wall of the threaded sleeve rod is also provided with a second helical part.

[0018] A gear is rotatably mounted inside the device body around its axis, and the gear meshes with the first helical part and the second helical part respectively.

[0019] According to one embodiment of this application, the support mechanism includes:

[0020] Support components, used to abut against the wall;

[0021] The connector has a first end facing the wall that is connected to the support, and a second end that is connected to the drive mechanism. The connector can move between a retracted position where its first end is housed inside the device body and an extended position where it extends outside the device body.

[0022] According to one embodiment of this application, the device body is provided with a guide groove, which communicates with the surface of the device body facing the wall, and the connector can be slidably installed in the guide groove.

[0023] According to one embodiment of this application, the support member is centrally arranged in the width direction of the device body and extends along the width direction of the device body. At least two connectors are provided, and the at least two connectors are spaced apart along the width direction of the device body. At least one connector is connected to the drive mechanism.

[0024] According to one embodiment of this application, the support includes a support portion for abutting against a wall, the surface of the support portion for abutting against the wall including an arcuate surface, and when the connector is in the retracted position, at least a portion of the support portion extends out of the device body.

[0025] According to one embodiment of this application, a limiting structure is also included, which is disposed on the support mechanism and / or drive mechanism and / or device body, and is used to limit the support mechanism when it moves to its limit position.

[0026] According to one embodiment of this application, the water heater further includes a mounting mechanism, which includes:

[0027] The first mounting section is used for fixed connection with the wall;

[0028] The second mounting part is fixedly installed at the upper end of the device body, and the second mounting part is rotatably connected to the first mounting part.

[0029] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0030] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this application will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the water heater provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the support mechanism and the drive mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0033] Figure 3 This is another assembly structure diagram of the support mechanism and drive mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0034] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the operation of the support mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0035] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the operation of a water heater provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 6 This is an exploded structural diagram of the support mechanism and drive mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0037] Figure label:

[0038] 1. Water heater;

[0039] 10. Device body; 11. Operating port; 12. Support base; 121. Guide groove; 13. Inspection port;

[0040] 20. Support mechanism; 21. Support component; 211. Support part; 212. Protective pad; 22. Connecting component;

[0041] 30. Drive mechanism; 31. Power component; 311. Operating end; 312. First helical part; 32. Driven component; 33. Transmission assembly; 331. Threaded sleeve; 3311. Second helical part; 332. Gear;

[0042] 40. Mounting mechanism; 41. First mounting section; 42. Second mounting section;

[0043] 2. Walls. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0045] In related technologies, the common installation method for water heaters is to fix them to the wall. While this arrangement saves space, it is particularly inconvenient when maintenance or repairs are needed on the side of the water heater facing the wall. Specifically, repair operations usually require lifting the entire water heater off the wall or completely removing it. This process is not only time-consuming and labor-intensive but may also pose additional safety risks and significantly increase the cost and complexity of maintenance work. The lack of effective and convenient solutions in existing technologies to optimize the maintenance process for such water heaters highlights the need for innovative improvements.

[0046] Based on the above considerations, this application provides a water heater that reduces maintenance and repair difficulty, lowers maintenance costs, improves maintenance efficiency, and enhances safety during the maintenance process.

[0047] The following is for reference. Figures 1-6 A water heater according to an embodiment of this application is described.

[0048] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 The water heater 1 in this embodiment includes a body 10, a support mechanism 20 and a drive mechanism 30.

[0049] The upper end of the device body 10 is rotatably mounted on the wall 2, and the lower end has an inspection port on the side facing the wall 2.

[0050] The main body 10 can be made of high-temperature resistant material and its shape can be adapted to modern home environments, such as cylindrical or cubic, with no specific limitation. A rotating mounting base can be provided at the upper end of the main body 10, allowing the upper part of the water heater 1 to be flexibly fixed to the wall 2. The rotating mounting base has an embedded bearing structure to ensure that the water heater 1 can rotate smoothly in the vertical plane. An inspection port is provided at the lower end near the wall 2, and an inspection door can be provided outside the inspection port. During maintenance, the operator can inspect and replace internal components and perform pipe connections through the inspection port.

[0051] The support mechanism 20 is movably mounted on the main body 10 and located above the inspection port.

[0052] When the water heater 1 is in normal use, the support mechanism 20 can be retracted into the main body 10, without affecting the appearance or normal use of the water heater 1. By installing the support mechanism 20 in the upper part of the water heater 1 near the access port, when the support mechanism 20 extends out of the supporting wall 2, the access port can be moved away from the wall 2 with appropriate force, without interfering with the operator's operation.

[0053] The drive mechanism 30 is located inside the device body 10 and connected to the support mechanism 20. It is used to drive at least a portion of the support mechanism 20 to extend out of the device body 10 and push against the wall 2, so that the access port moves away from the wall 2.

[0054] The water heater 1 is generally quite heavy. A drive mechanism 30 is connected to the support mechanism 20 via power coupling to facilitate the movement of the support mechanism 20 and provide sufficient driving force to ensure stable support for the water heater body 10. When maintenance of the water heater 1 is required, the drive mechanism 30 drives at least a portion of the support mechanism 20 to extend outside the water heater body 10. When the support mechanism 20 contacts the wall 2, a stable counter-force is generated, causing the water heater 1 to rotate counterclockwise (or clockwise) around the upper end of the water heater body 10 by a certain angle. This moves the inspection port away from the wall 2, facilitating subsequent inspection and maintenance by the operator.

[0055] According to the embodiment of this application, the water heater 1 has an access port at its lower end. By using a drive mechanism 30 to drive the support mechanism 20 to extend out of the body 10 and push against the wall 2, the body 10 rotates around its upper end, causing the access port to move away from the wall 2, thereby increasing the distance between the access port and the wall 2 for the operator to operate. This has at least the following beneficial effects:

[0056] 1. A single operator can easily complete the maintenance and repair of water heater 1 without additional manpower, reducing labor costs; 2. No need to completely disassemble water heater 1, reducing safety hazards caused by moving heavy objects and ensuring the safety of operators; 3. Simplified maintenance process, reducing indirect costs caused by complex operations, such as time costs and possible damage repair costs; 4. Quick access to the inspection port speeds up fault diagnosis and repair, ensuring that water heater 1 can be restored to normal operation in a timely manner.

[0057] Please see Figure 2 According to some embodiments of this application, the drive mechanism 30 includes a follower 32 and a drive member.

[0058] The driven member 32 can be connected to the support mechanism 20, the output end of the power member 31 can be poweredly coupled to the driven member 32, and the input end of the power member 31 can rotate relative to the device body 10 to drive the driven member 32 to move in the direction of approaching and moving away from the wall 2.

[0059] The driven member 32 can be connected to the support mechanism 20 through a mechanical connector 22 (such as a thread, gear or linkage mechanism) to ensure efficient force transmission. The power member 31 is rotatably mounted on the device body 10, and its output end is poweredly coupled to the driven member 32, while its input end can bear the rotational torque.

[0060] When the position of the access port of the water heater 1 needs to be adjusted, torque is applied to the input end of the power component 31 to drive the power component 31 to rotate. The output end of the power component 31 transmits the torque to the driven component 32. This rotational motion is converted into linear motion through the built-in precision transmission system (such as gear set, worm gear mechanism), which drives the driven component 32 to move in the specified direction, thereby causing the support mechanism 20 to extend or retract, so that the access port can be moved away from or closer to the wall 2 as needed, so as to facilitate maintenance.

[0061] The drive mechanism 30 can be an electric drive mechanism, a manual drive mechanism, or it can have both electric and manual drive functions. This will be explained from three aspects below:

[0062] Firstly, the drive mechanism 30 can be an electric drive mechanism.

[0063] The input end of the power component 31 is connected to a motor, which serves as the power source. The motor is connected to the power component 31 through a transmission structure such as a precision gear set and a transmission belt. When the water heater 1 needs maintenance, simply press the "Maintenance" button on the external control panel of the water heater 1. The motor will then start, and after the gear set reduces speed and increases torque, it will be transmitted to the power component 31, thereby driving the support mechanism 20 to extend outward. This one-button operation is simple and effortless.

[0064] Secondly, the drive mechanism 30 can be manually driven.

[0065] The power component 31 can be designed as a handwheel or knob, installed in an easily accessible location on the exterior of the water heater 1. Its output end is power-coupled with the driven component 32, while the input end allows the user to directly apply torque through manual rotation. This enables support and retraction of the unit body 10. The user simply rotates the power component 31 by hand; the rotational motion is converted into linear motion through a built-in precision transmission system, driving the driven component 32 to move in a specified direction, thereby extending or retracting the support mechanism 20. This allows the access port to be moved away from or closer to the wall 2 as needed, facilitating maintenance. By setting the drive mechanism 30 as a manual drive mechanism, the operation is more flexible and practical, convenient for power-off operation, safe, stable in use, and cost-effective.

[0066] Third, the drive mechanism 30 can have both electric drive and manual drive functions.

[0067] Combining the technical solutions mentioned above not only satisfies the pursuit of automation and convenience, but also takes into account the applicability in specific environments (such as when the power supply is unstable or the user prefers manual operation), greatly expanding the application scope of the product.

[0068] The following explanation will take the drive mechanism 30 as an example of a manually driven mechanism.

[0069] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 According to some embodiments of this application, the operating end 311 of the power member 31 can be provided on the outer surface of the device body 10, and the operating direction of the operating end 311 is opposite to the direction in which the support mechanism 20 moves outward from the device body 10.

[0070] It is understandable that the operating end 311 of the power component 31 is the input end. By setting the input end on the outer surface of the device body 10, it is convenient for the operator to contact and operate. The operating end 311 can be provided with a structure that facilitates manual operation, such as an internal hexagonal groove, spline groove, cross groove, etc., which can be operated using the corresponding tools.

[0071] The operating direction of the operating end 311 refers to the orientation of the operating end 311. By making the orientation of the operating end 311 opposite to the direction in which the support mechanism 20 moves outward from the device body 10, that is, the operating end 311 faces away from the wall 2, it is convenient for the operator to operate from this direction.

[0072] This design allows the operator to easily reach and operate the power unit 3125 from the front of the water heater 1, without any special body tilting or movement, even if the water heater 1 is installed close to the wall. This greatly simplifies the manual adjustment process, providing users with excellent convenience and comfort for both daily use adjustments and professional maintenance.

[0073] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 According to some embodiments of this application, the outer surface of the device body 10 may be provided with an operation port 11, and the operation end 311 of the power component 31 may be provided in the operation port 11. The operation port 11 may face away from the wall 2.

[0074] The output end of the power component 31 is located inside the main body 10, and the operating end 311 extends from the side wall of the main body 10 into the operating port 11. By positioning the operating port 11 away from the mounting wall 2, it is ensured that even when the water heater 1 is installed flush against the wall, the operating port 11 still faces the user, facilitating direct interaction. Furthermore, the operating end 311 of the power component 31 is embedded inside the operating port 11, protecting the operating end 311 from external environmental influences while maintaining the clean and uniform appearance of the water heater 1.

[0075] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 3 According to some embodiments of this application, the power member 31 and the driven member 32 may be arranged at an angle, and the drive mechanism 30 may also include a transmission assembly 33, through which the power member 31 and the driven member 32 may be connected by power coupling.

[0076] The power component 31 and the driven component 32 are not arranged in parallel, but at a certain angle. This layout effectively utilizes the limited space inside the water heater 1, reducing the size of the power component 31 and minimizing interference between the power component 31 and other components inside the appliance body 10 during transmission. The transmission assembly 33 acts as a bridge, converting the power output from the power component 31 and transmitting it to the driven component 32, thus achieving a power coupling connection between the two.

[0077] The transmission component 33 can be made of various forms such as gear set, chain drive, belt drive, etc. The specific selection depends on the actual working conditions and efficiency requirements, ensuring that efficient and stable power transmission can be maintained under various working conditions. This not only optimizes the compactness of the overall structure, but also improves the durability and smoothness of the system.

[0078] In other embodiments, the power member 31 may also be arranged in parallel with the driven member 32.

[0079] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 3According to some embodiments of this application, the driven member 32 may include a screw, the output end of the power member 31 may be provided with a first helical part 312, and the transmission assembly 33 may include a threaded sleeve 331 and a gear 332. The threaded sleeve 331 is rotatably mounted inside the device body 10 about its axis. The threaded sleeve 331 can be sleeved outside the screw and threadedly engaged with the screw. The outer side wall of the threaded sleeve 331 may also be provided with a second helical part 3311. The gear 332 is rotatably mounted inside the device body 10 about its axis. The gear 332 can mesh with the first helical part 312 and the second helical part 3311 respectively.

[0080] In actual operation, the operator can control the rotation of the operating end 311, thereby driving the entire power component 31 to rotate, and also driving the first spiral part 312 to rotate.

[0081] Because the first helical part 312 meshes with the gear 332, the first helical part 312 can drive the gear 332 to rotate around its axis. For example, the axis of the gear 332 can extend along the height direction of the water heater 1.

[0082] Since gear 332 meshes with the second helical part 3311, and threaded sleeve 331 is rotatably mounted in the device body 10 around its axis, gear 332 can drive threaded sleeve 331 to rotate around its axis. It should be noted that threaded sleeve 331 is limited in the extension direction of its axis to prevent linear movement of threaded sleeve 331 and ensure the stability of the fit. Furthermore, the extension direction of the axis of threaded sleeve 331 can be the direction of movement of the support mechanism 20.

[0083] Furthermore, because the threaded sleeve 331 is threadedly engaged with the screw, and the position of the threaded sleeve 331 is fixed, the screw is driven to move axially when the threaded sleeve 331 rotates. One end of the screw can be fixedly connected to the support mechanism 20, thereby driving the support mechanism 20 to move towards and away from the wall 2. Moreover, the threaded engagement structure allows for self-locking; after the screw pushes the connector 22 out, no special constraint mechanism is needed to prevent the connector 22 from retracting, resulting in high stability.

[0084] Please combine Figure 4 and Figure 5 To understand, Figure 4 The diagrams from (a) to (b) to (c) illustrate the movement process of the support mechanism 20 extending the body 10. Figure 5 correspond Figure 4 The states from (a) to (b) to (c) in the diagram illustrate how, as the support mechanism 20 extends, the device body 10 gradually tilts and the inspection port becomes spaced from the wall 2. Figure 5 The red area in the diagram represents the space available for operators to perform their tasks.

[0085] The drive mechanism 30 according to the embodiment of this application realizes multi-stage amplification and buffering of power, and also ensures the smoothness and continuity of the power transmission process. Even under high torque demand, it can ensure the stable operation of the system. It not only optimizes the spatial layout, but also significantly enhances the reliability and efficiency of power transmission, providing the operator with a smoother and more durable operating experience.

[0086] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 6 According to some embodiments of this application, the support mechanism 20 may include a support member 21 and a connector 22.

[0087] The support member 21 can be used to abut against the wall 2; the first end of the connector 22 facing the wall 2 is connected to the support member 21, and the second end of the connector 22 is connected to the drive mechanism 30. The connector 22 can move between a storage position where its first end is stored inside the device body 10 and an extension position where it extends outside the device body 10.

[0088] The support member 21 is designed to stably support the wall 2, ensuring the stability of the water heater 1 when it is supported. The connector 22 serves as a connection structure between the support member 21 and the drive mechanism 30. One end of the connector 22 is fixedly connected to the support member 21, and the other end is connected to the drive mechanism 30. The power output from the drive mechanism 30 is transmitted to the connector 22, causing the connector 22 to move, which in turn causes the support member 21 to move.

[0089] The first end of the connector 22 can be retracted into a storage position inside the main body 10. During normal use of the water heater 1, the connector 22 can be completely retracted inside the water heater 1, maintaining a clean appearance and avoiding the risk of daily collisions, greatly improving the overall aesthetics and safety of the water heater 1. When installing, inspecting, or maintaining the water heater 1, the first end of the connector 22 can extend from inside the main body 10 and push the drive component against the wall 2, facilitating the adjustment of the tilt angle of the main body 10. When the first end is in the extended position, the distance between the inspection port and the wall 2 is at its maximum, facilitating subsequent inspection and maintenance by the operator.

[0090] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 6 According to some embodiments of this application, a guide groove 121 may be provided in the device body 10. The guide groove 121 may communicate with the surface of the device body 10 facing the wall 2, and the connector 22 may be slidably installed in the guide groove 121.

[0091] The guide groove 121 provides a precise and smooth sliding path for the connector 22. The connector 22 can be slidably installed within the guide groove 121, ensuring precise guidance of its movement trajectory during the sliding process from the retracted position to the extended position. This avoids unnecessary frictional wear and unstable shaking, and also improves the assembly strength of the connector 22, enhancing installation stability and greatly improving operational stability and the service life of the equipment. The guide groove 121 is connected to the surface of the device body 10 facing the wall 2, allowing the connector 22 to extend beyond the device body 10.

[0092] By setting the guide groove 121, the operator can more easily adjust the position of the connector 22 during the installation and subsequent maintenance of the water heater 1 without worrying about the connector 22 shifting or being obstructed, thus improving the user experience.

[0093] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 6 In some embodiments, a support base 12 may be provided inside the device body 10. The support base 12 is used to support the drive mechanism 30 and the support mechanism 20, and serves to integrate the two.

[0094] The guide groove 121 can be provided on the support base 12. The power component 31, the threaded sleeve 331 and the gear 332 can all be rotatably mounted on the support base 12, and the support base 12 has corresponding mounting grooves for assembling each component to ensure the stability of the assembly of each component. For example, the support base 12 can be provided with a circular groove for mounting the gear 332 to improve the running stability of the gear 332 and prevent the component from falling into the device body 10 and causing safety hazards.

[0095] The support base 12 may also be provided with multiple reinforcing ribs, which can be staggered to improve the overall stability of the support base 12.

[0096] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 6 According to some embodiments of this application, the support member 21 can be centrally arranged in the width direction of the device body 10 and can extend along the width direction of the device body 10. There can be at least two connecting members 22, and the at least two connecting members 22 can be distributed at intervals along the width direction of the device body 10. At least one connecting member 22 can be connected to the drive mechanism 30.

[0097] The support member 21 is located at the center of the width direction of the body 10 and extends along this direction, thereby optimizing the load distribution and increasing the contact area between the support member 21 and the wall 2, improving the support stability, so that the water heater 1 can maintain good stability even when operating at full load.

[0098] By setting at least two connectors 22 and distributing them evenly at intervals along the width direction of the appliance body 10, the support strength between the water heater 1 and the wall and the stability of the overall structure are enhanced. This allows for the adaptation to larger water heaters 1, and the spaced connectors 22 also reduce interference with other components inside the appliance body 10, optimizing the spatial layout. The number of connectors 22 is not specifically limited and is determined according to design requirements. For example, two connectors 22 can be provided, each connecting to one end of the support member 21 along the width direction of the appliance body 10.

[0099] At least one connector 22 is directly connected to the drive mechanism 30 to ensure stable power transmission from the drive mechanism 30 to the support mechanism 20. In one example, one of the multiple connectors 22 is connected to the drive mechanism 30, and the power output from the drive mechanism 30 is supplied to the corresponding connector 22. The remaining connectors 22 can move synchronously under the drive of the support member 21. The design of the guide groove 121 ensures the stability of the entire support mechanism 20. Using a single connector 22 to connect to the drive mechanism 30 reduces structural complexity, minimizes the space occupied by the drive mechanism 30, optimizes the overall spatial layout, and reduces the required driving force. In another example, at least two of the multiple connectors 22 are connected to the drive mechanism 30, enabling multi-point power transmission from the drive mechanism 30. This ensures accurate power transmission and synchronous adjustment capability at each connection point, improves the overall operational stability of the support mechanism 20, and ensures the structural stability and reliability of the water heater 1 during long-term use.

[0100] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 6 According to some embodiments of this application, the support member 21 may include a support portion 211 for abutting against the wall 2. The surface of the support portion 211 for abutting against the wall 2 includes an arcuate surface. When the connector 22 is in the storage position, at least a portion of the support portion 211 extends out of the device body 10.

[0101] The support portion 211 can protrude in a direction away from the main body 10 to facilitate contact between the support portion 211 and the wall 2. The contact surface of the support portion 211 facing the wall 2 includes a curved surface. This not only improves the overall aesthetics but, more importantly, the curved design better adapts to minor unevenness in the wall surface, ensuring a tight and even fit between the water heater 1 and the wall 2 after installation, greatly enhancing the stability and aesthetics of the installation. Specifically, the curved surfaces are located on the upper and lower sides of the support portion 211. This not only provides a symmetrical aesthetic but also allows the support portion 211 to rotate at a certain angle when the main body 10 is tilted. The curved surface design reduces the friction between the support portion 211 and the wall 2, improving the durability of the equipment and the smoothness of operation.

[0102] Furthermore, when the connector 22 is in the retracted position, at least a portion of the support 211 extends beyond the main body 10, so that the water heater 1 remains in contact with the wall 2 during normal use, providing support for the water heater 1 during normal installation and use, and ensuring that the water heater 1 can receive initial stable support even when the support mechanism 20 is not extended, avoiding impact with the wall 2 when the support mechanism 20 is extended, and improving the stability of the equipment.

[0103] Please see Figure 6 In some embodiments, the end face of the support portion 211 may be provided with a protective pad 212. The protective pad 212 may be made of rubber or plastic and may play a role in shock absorption, anti-slip, insulation, etc., protecting the surface of the support portion 211 from scratches, improving wear resistance, reducing vibration and noise, and providing a stable support surface.

[0104] According to some embodiments of this application, the water heater 1 may also include a limiting structure, which may be provided on the support mechanism 20 and / or the drive mechanism 30 and / or the device body 10. The limiting structure is used to limit the support mechanism 20 when it moves to its limit position.

[0105] First, it should be noted that the extreme positions of the support mechanism 20 can correspond to the retracted and extended positions of the connector 22. By setting a limiting structure, it is ensured that the support mechanism 20 can be precisely controlled when it reaches its activity limit, preventing damage or even device failure caused by excessive extension or compression.

[0106] The limiting structure is installed in key parts of the water heater 1, including but not limited to the support mechanism 20, the drive mechanism 30, and the main body 10 itself. Its core function is that when the support mechanism 20 or the drive mechanism 30 of the water heater 1 moves to the limit position of its working stroke, the limiting structure immediately intervenes, physically restricting further movement and effectively preventing operation beyond the stroke range, thus avoiding possible mechanical damage or safety accidents.

[0107] The specific forms of the limit structure are diverse, including spring clips, mechanical blocks, or electronic sensors with synchronized control logic, which can be flexibly selected according to the actual application scenario.

[0108] In one example, the limiting structure can be provided on the support mechanism 20. For example, the limiting structure can be a protrusion provided on the connector 22, and the protrusion is located at the end of the connector 22 away from the support 21. When the connector 22 is in the extended position, the protrusion abuts against the inner wall of the device body 10 and limits it. When the connector 22 is in the retracted position, the connector 22 abuts against the end wall of the guide groove 121 and limits it.

[0109] In another example, the limiting structure can be provided on the drive mechanism 30. For example, the limiting structure can be a protrusion provided on the screw. The protrusion is at the end of the screw away from the connector 22. When the connector 22 moves to the extended position, the protrusion abuts against the threaded sleeve 331 for limiting. When the connector 22 moves to the retracted position, the screw abuts against the inner wall of the device body 10 for limiting.

[0110] In another example, the limiting structure can be set on the device body 10. For example, the limiting structure can be a buckle set on the device body 10. When the connector 22 moves to the storage position or the extended position, the buckle cooperates with the corresponding card part or card slot to limit the movement.

[0111] In some other examples, the limiting structure can be set between any two of the support mechanism 20, the drive mechanism 30, and the device body 10, and the limiting is achieved through the cooperation of mechanical blocks, buckles, and other structures. The specifics will not be elaborated here.

[0112] In another example, when the drive mechanism 30 is an electric drive structure, the limiting structure may include an electronic sensor, which can send a stop command to the drive system in a timely manner by detecting the displacement signal of the element, thus achieving the same effect of precise limiting.

[0113] By setting a limit structure, the operational safety of water heater 1 has been significantly improved, ensuring the stability and durability of the product during long-term use, while also reducing the maintenance burden on users.

[0114] Please see Figure 1 The water heater 1 may also include a mounting mechanism 40, which may include a first mounting part 41 and a second mounting part 42. The first mounting part 41 is used to be fixedly connected to the wall 2; the second mounting part 42 is fixedly installed on the upper end of the body 10, and the second mounting part 42 is rotatably connected to the first mounting part 41.

[0115] The mounting mechanism 40 is located at the upper end of the unit body 10, serving to primarily support the weight of the water heater 1 and ensure a stable connection between the water heater 1 and the wall 2. The first mounting part 41 is specifically designed for a secure connection to the wall and can be made of high-strength materials to ensure stable support even when the water heater 1 is operating at full load, preventing the risk of detachment. The second mounting part 42 is fixedly installed at the upper end of the unit body 10 and rotatably connected to the first mounting part 41, allowing the unit body 10 to rotate relative to the wall 2 when the support mechanism 20 extends out of the unit body 10. This simple structure facilitates subsequent maintenance, inspection, or minor adjustments to the position of the water heater 1.

[0116] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and not to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such use of data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of this application can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein, and the objects distinguished by "first," "second," etc., are generally of the same class and the number of objects is not limited; for example, a first object can be one or more. Furthermore, in the specification and claims, "and / or" indicates at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0117] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0118] In the description of this application, "first feature" and "second feature" may include one or more of the features.

[0119] In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more.

[0120] In the description of this application, the first feature being "above" or "below" the second feature may include the first and second features being in direct contact, or it may include the first and second features not being in direct contact but being in contact through another feature between them.

[0121] In the description of this application, the terms "above," "over," and "on top" for the first feature and the second feature include the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicate that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature.

[0122] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0123] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of this application, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A water heater, characterized in that, include: The device body has an upper end for rotatable mounting on a wall, and an inspection port on the lower end facing the wall. A support mechanism is movably mounted on the device body and located above the inspection port; A drive mechanism, located within the device body and connected to the support mechanism, is used to drive at least a portion of the support mechanism to extend out of the device body and push against the wall, thereby moving the access port away from the wall.

2. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive mechanism includes: The driven component is connected to the support mechanism; The power component has its output end connected to the driven component via power coupling, and its input end is rotatable relative to the device body to drive the driven component to move in directions toward and away from the wall.

3. The water heater according to claim 2, characterized in that, The operating end of the power component is located on the outer surface of the device body, and the operating direction of the operating end is opposite to the direction in which the support mechanism moves outward from the device body.

4. The water heater according to claim 2, characterized in that, The outer surface of the device body is provided with an operating port, and the operating end of the power component is located inside the operating port, with the operating port facing away from the wall.

5. The water heater according to claim 2, characterized in that, The power component and the driven component are arranged at an angle, and the drive mechanism further includes a transmission assembly. The power component is dynamically coupled to the driven component through the transmission assembly.

6. The water heater according to claim 5, characterized in that, The driven member includes a screw, the output end of the power member is provided with a first helical portion, and the transmission assembly includes: A threaded sleeve rod is rotatably mounted inside the device body about its axis. The threaded sleeve rod is sleeved outside the screw rod and threadedly engaged with the screw rod. The outer side wall of the threaded sleeve rod is also provided with a second helical part. A gear is rotatably mounted in the body of the device about its axis, and the gear meshes with the first helical part and the second helical part respectively.

7. The water heater according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The supporting structure includes: Support components, used to abut against the wall; A connector, the first end of which faces the wall is connected to the support member, and the second end of which is connected to the drive mechanism. The connector can move between a retracted position where its first end is housed within the device body and an extended position where it extends out of the device body.

8. The water heater according to claim 7, characterized in that, The device body is provided with a guide groove, which is connected to the surface of the device body facing the wall, and the connector can be slidably installed in the guide groove.

9. The water heater according to claim 7, characterized in that, The support member is centrally located in the width direction of the device body and extends along the width direction of the device body. There are at least two connecting members, which are spaced apart along the width direction of the device body. At least one of the connecting members is connected to the drive mechanism.

10. The water heater according to claim 7, characterized in that, The support member includes a support portion for abutting against a wall, the surface of the support portion for abutting against the wall including an arcuate surface, and when the connector is in the storage position, at least a portion of the support portion extends out of the device body.

11. The water heater according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, It also includes a limiting structure, which is disposed on the support mechanism and / or the drive mechanism and / or the device body, and is used to limit the support mechanism when it moves to its limit position.

12. The water heater according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, It also includes a mounting mechanism, which includes: The first mounting section is used for fixed connection with the wall; The second mounting part is fixedly disposed at the upper end of the device body, and the second mounting part is rotatably connected to the first mounting part.

Images