Water purifier

Abstract

The invention discloses a water purifier, and relates to the technical field of water purifiers, the water purifier is provided with a raw water inlet and a hot water outlet, and the water purifier comprises a purification unit, a pressurization unit, a water inlet pipeline and a hot tank. Wherein the hot tank is communicated with the hot water outlet, and the hot tank is used for storing purified water and heating the purified water to a target temperature; the purification unit is communicated with the raw water inlet, and the water inlet pipeline is communicated with the purification unit and the hot tank, so that raw water entering from the raw water inlet is pressurized by the pressurization unit, flows through the purification unit and then is injected into the hot tank through the water inlet pipeline, and hot water heated to a target temperature in the hot tank is conveyed to the hot water outlet. The water purifier solves the problems that a traditional water purifier is large in part number, complex in water path, unstable in temperature adjustment and high in cost.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] As users' demand for instant hot water from the tap increases, integrated water purifiers with heating functions have emerged, combining filtration and heating.

[0003] Currently, the mainstream technologies are divided into two categories: instantaneous and storage-type. Instantaneous heating uses high-power electric heating elements for instantaneous heating. However, due to limitations in power and pipe temperature resistance, the terminal hot water flow is generally small, with a maximum water temperature of about 95 degrees Celsius, resulting in a poor continuous hot water experience. Storage-type heating uses a built-in hot water tank to pre-store boiling water, and the terminal hot water flow can reach more than 1.5 LPM. However, if the heating and water outlet system requires temperature adjustment, it suffers from drawbacks such as numerous parts, complex water circuits, unstable temperature adjustment, and high costs, affecting users' experience of using high-flow-rate, high-temperature (greater than 98 degrees Celsius) hot water. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide a water purifier that solves the problems of traditional water purifiers, such as numerous parts, complex water circuits, unstable temperature control, and high costs.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides a water purifier having a raw water inlet and a hot water outlet, including a purification unit, a pressurization unit, an inlet pipe, and a heating tank;

[0006] The hot water tank is connected to the hot water outlet. The hot water tank is used to store purified water and heat the purified water to the target temperature.

[0007] The purification unit is connected to the raw water inlet, and the inlet pipe is connected to the purification unit and the hot water tank. This allows the raw water entering from the raw water inlet to be pressurized by the pressurization unit, flow through the purification unit, and then be injected into the hot water tank through the inlet pipe. The hot water that has been heated to the target temperature in the hot water tank is then pumped to the hot water outlet.

[0008] In some embodiments, the hot tank has a built-in water distribution plate, which is used to divide the inner cavity of the hot tank into a first water storage cavity and a second water storage cavity. The first water storage cavity is connected to the water inlet pipe, and the water distribution plate is provided with a plurality of through holes connecting the first water storage cavity and the second water storage cavity, so that the clean water injected into the first water storage cavity by the water inlet pipe flows to the second water storage cavity through each through hole.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first water storage chamber is located below the second water storage chamber;

[0010] It also includes a hot water outlet pipe, which is led out from the highest point of the heating tank and extends upwards to connect with the hot water outlet.

[0011] In some embodiments, the hot water outlet pipe is equipped with a hot water outlet valve. When the hot water tank is in the water production state or in the state of heating and the water temperature is lower than the threshold temperature, the hot water outlet valve is opened to discharge the gas in the hot water tank through the hot water outlet pipe and out of the hot water outlet. When the hot water tank is in the state of heating completed, the hot water outlet valve is opened so that the hot water in the second water storage chamber is pressurized to the hot water outlet through the hot water outlet pipe.

[0012] In some embodiments, it also includes an exhaust pipe, a room temperature water outlet pipe, a heat absorption and condensation structure, and a water faucet. The hot water outlet is located at the water faucet, and the water faucet is provided with an exhaust port and a room temperature water outlet. The exhaust pipe is connected to the heat tank and the exhaust port. The room temperature water outlet pipe is connected to the purification unit and the room temperature water outlet. The heat absorption and condensation structure is connected to the room temperature water outlet pipe and the exhaust pipe.

[0013] A pressure relief valve is installed on the exhaust pipe. When the pressure relief valve is opened, the steam in the hot tank flows along the exhaust pipe to the heat absorption and condensation structure. The heat absorption and condensation structure condenses the steam into condensate and discharges it from the exhaust port.

[0014] In some embodiments, a first inlet valve and an inlet check valve are provided on the inlet pipe. When the first inlet valve and the booster unit are opened, the raw water entering from the raw water inlet flows into the hot tank through the purification unit, the first inlet valve and the inlet check valve. The inlet check valve is used to prevent hot water in the hot tank from entering the purification unit.

[0015] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0016] The first water level detection unit is located in the hot tank and is used to detect whether the water level in the hot tank has reached the first water level.

[0017] The second water level detection unit is located in the hot tank and is used to detect whether the water level in the hot tank has reached the second water level, which is higher than the first water level.

[0018] When the water level in the hot tank is below the first water level, the first water inlet valve and the pressurization unit open; when the water level in the hot tank exceeds the second water level, the first water inlet valve and the pressurization unit close.

[0019] In some embodiments, the purification unit includes a composite filter element and a reverse osmosis filter element. The composite filter element includes a pre-filter element body and a post-filter element body. The inlet of the pre-filter element body is connected to the raw water inlet, the outlet of the pre-filter element body is connected to the inlet of the booster unit, the outlet of the booster unit is connected to the inlet of the reverse osmosis filter element, the outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element is connected to the inlet of the post-filter element body, and the outlet of the post-filter element body is connected to the inlet water pipeline.

[0020] In some embodiments, a second inlet valve and a wastewater valve are also included. The second inlet valve is located on the pipeline between the pre-filter body and the booster unit, and the wastewater valve is connected to the reverse osmosis filter through a pipeline.

[0021] It also includes a return pipeline. The hot tank has an air vent. The return pipeline is connected to the air vent and the water inlet of the pressurization unit. The return pipeline is equipped with a return valve and a return check valve.

[0022] When the heating status and water level signal of the hot tank reach the preset conditions, the second inlet valve closes, the reflux valve and the wastewater valve open, and the booster unit provides power so that the water in the hot tank flows through the drain port, reflux valve, reflux check valve and reverse osmosis filter element in succession before being discharged by the wastewater valve.

[0023] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0024] A heating unit, located in the hot tank, is used to heat the purified water in the hot tank to the target temperature;

[0025] A temperature detection unit, located in the hot tank, is used to detect the temperature of the hot water in the hot tank;

[0026] The pressure detection unit, located in the hot tank, is used to detect the pressure inside the hot tank.

[0027] When the pressure detection unit detects that the pressure inside the hot tank has reached the set pressure, the heating unit starts heating; when the temperature detection unit detects that the temperature of the hot water in the hot tank has reached the target temperature, it sends a stop heating signal to stop the heating unit from heating.

[0028] Compared to the aforementioned background technology, the water purifier provided in this application embodiment has a raw water inlet and a hot water outlet. The water purifier includes a purification unit, a pressurization unit, an inlet pipe, and a heating tank. The heating tank is connected to the hot water outlet and is used to store purified water and heat it to a target temperature. The purification unit is connected to the raw water inlet, and the inlet pipe is connected to both the purification unit and the heating tank. This allows raw water entering from the raw water inlet to be pressurized by the pressurization unit, flow through the purification unit, and then be injected into the heating tank via the inlet pipe. The heated hot water in the heating tank, already at the target temperature, is then pumped to the hot water outlet.

[0029] The beneficial effects of a water purifier configured in this way mainly include:

[0030] This application eliminates the downstream mixing and temperature control loop, using the booster unit as the sole power source. During water production, raw water is filtered by the purification unit and injected into the heating tank through the inlet pipe. The hot water, already heated to the target temperature, is then directly pressurized to the hot water outlet, achieving immediate replenishment upon water output. This eliminates numerous components downstream of the heating tank, such as pumping power, temperature detection, and flow regulation, reducing the risk of leakage and malfunction. The system structure is simpler, the control is more stable, and the cost is lower. Simultaneously, thanks to continuous inlet pressure, the hot water flow rate can meet usage needs, allowing users to obtain a large flow of high-temperature purified water in one go, providing a superior experience compared to traditional instant or storage-based mixing solutions. Attached Figure Description

[0031] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or related technologies, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a connection diagram of the water purifier in an embodiment of this application.

[0033] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the water distribution tray in the water purifier.

[0034] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the assembly of the heat absorption and condensation structure in the water purifier.

[0035] in:

[0036] 1-raw water inlet;

[0037] 2-Purification unit; 201-Composite filter element; 202-Reverse osmosis filter element;

[0038] 3-Second inlet valve;

[0039] 4-Boost unit;

[0040] 5-Water inlet pipe;

[0041] 6- Wastewater valve;

[0042] 7-Inlet check valve;

[0043] 8-First inlet valve;

[0044] 9-Ambient temperature water drain valve;

[0045] 10 - First water level detection unit;

[0046] 11-Second water level detection unit;

[0047] 12-Hot tank; 1201-First water storage chamber; 1202-Second water storage chamber;

[0048] 13- Drainage port;

[0049] 14-Temperature detection unit;

[0050] 15 - Heating unit;

[0051] 16 - First water level;

[0052] 17 - Second water level;

[0053] 18-Hot water outlet pipe;

[0054] 19-Hot water outlet valve;

[0055] 20 - Water tap;

[0056] 21-Hot water outlet;

[0057] 22 - Room temperature water outlet;

[0058] 23 - Exhaust port;

[0059] 24 - Pressure relief valve;

[0060] 25 - Pressure detection unit;

[0061] 26-Water distribution plate; 2601-Through hole;

[0062] 27 - Normal temperature water outlet pipe;

[0063] 28 - Exhaust pipe;

[0064] 29 - Heat absorption and condensation structure;

[0065] 30 - Return line;

[0066] 31 - Return valve;

[0067] 32 - Return check valve. Detailed Implementation

[0068] 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 some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0069] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the present application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0070] It should be noted that the directional terms such as "upper end," "lower end," "left side," and "right side" mentioned below are defined based on the accompanying drawings in the instruction manual.

[0071] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 1 This is a connection diagram of the water purifier in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the water distribution tray in the water purifier. Figure 3 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the assembly of the heat absorption and condensation structure in the water purifier.

[0072] The water purifier (also known as a water purifier and heat purifier) ​​provided in this application embodiment has a raw water inlet 1 and a hot water outlet 21. The water purifier includes a purification unit 2, a pressurization unit 4, a water inlet pipe 5, and a heating tank 12.

[0073] The hot water tank 12 is connected to the hot water outlet 21. The hot water tank 12 is used to store purified water and heat the purified water to the target temperature. The purification unit 2 is connected to the raw water inlet 1. The water inlet pipe 5 is connected to the purification unit 2 and the hot water tank 12, so that the raw water entering from the raw water inlet 1 is pressurized by the pressurizing unit 4 and flows through the purification unit 2 before being injected into the hot water tank 12 through the water inlet pipe 5. The hot water in the hot water tank 12, which has been heated to the target temperature, is then pressurized and sent to the hot water outlet 21.

[0074] With this configuration, this application eliminates the downstream mixing and temperature regulation circuit and directly uses the booster unit 4 as the sole power source: during water production, the raw water is filtered by the purification unit 2 and then injected into the hot water tank 12 through the inlet pipe 5. The hot water in the tank, which has been heated to the target temperature (greater than 98 degrees Celsius), is directly pressurized to the hot water outlet 21, so that water is replenished as soon as it is dispensed.

[0075] This eliminates the need for numerous components downstream of the hot water tank 12, such as pumping power, temperature detection, and flow regulation, reducing the risk of leakage and malfunction. The system structure is simpler, the control is more stable, and the cost is lower. Simultaneously, thanks to continuous inlet water pressure, the hot water flow rate can meet usage needs, allowing users to obtain a large flow rate and high temperature (above 98 degrees Celsius) of purified water in a single application, providing a superior experience compared to traditional instant or storage-based mixed-temperature solutions. This integrated water purifier and heater can utilize a water purification system exceeding 1200G to match a hot water flow rate greater than 3LPM, breaking through the industry's 2LPM hot water flow rate limit.

[0076] In some embodiments, the hot tank 12 has a built-in water distribution plate 26, which is used to divide the inner cavity of the hot tank 12 into a first water storage cavity 1201 and a second water storage cavity 1202. The first water storage cavity 1201 is connected to the water inlet pipe 5. The water distribution plate 26 is provided with a plurality of through holes 2601 connecting the first water storage cavity 1201 and the second water storage cavity 1202, so that the clean water injected into the first water storage cavity 1201 by the water inlet pipe 5 flows to the second water storage cavity 1202 through each through hole 2601. The water distribution plate 26 makes the cold water evenly distributed.

[0077] In this embodiment, the first water storage chamber 1201 is located below the second water storage chamber 1202.

[0078] Specifically, a ring-shaped water distribution plate 26 is horizontally installed inside the hot water tank 12, dividing the inner cavity of the hot water tank 12 into a lower first water storage chamber 1201 and an upper second water storage chamber 1202. The two chambers are connected by through holes 2601 evenly distributed on the water distribution plate 26. When producing water, the pressurization unit 4 is turned on, and room temperature purified water first enters the first water storage chamber 1201, and then flows upward into the second water storage chamber 1202 at a uniform speed through each through hole 2601. The water flow is forcibly dispersed into fine streams, which pressurize the hot water in the second water storage chamber 1202 to the hot water outlet 21.

[0079] It is important to emphasize that the existing water inlet structure is a columnar water inlet structure that directly introduces water. When the water flow rate is too fast and the outlet pipe diameter is limited, the excessively fast cold water column will enter the middle of the hot water, causing the temperature of the hot water around the column to drop sharply. Furthermore, the hot water around the inner wall of the hot water tank 12 is not pushed upwards by the cold water at the same time and cannot be discharged from the outlet of the hot water tank 12 simultaneously. Due to the excessive concentration of hot water entering the hot water tank 12, the hot water temperature obtained by the user does not reach the temperature set by the machine, affecting the water usage experience.

[0080] Compared with the prior art, this application uses a method where the water (room temperature water) entering the hot tank 12 is screened and dispersed by the water distribution plate 26, and then the hot water is pushed along the vertical direction of the entire cross-section of the hot tank 12 before being discharged through the outlet of the hot tank 12. This effectively solves the technical problem of uniform hot water output and ensures the stability of the water temperature.

[0081] In some embodiments, the water purifier further includes a heating unit 15, a temperature detection unit 14, and a pressure detection unit 25.

[0082] Heating unit 15 is provided in hot tank 12, and heating unit 15 is used to heat the purified water in hot tank 12 to the target temperature; temperature detection unit 14 is provided in hot tank 12, and temperature detection unit 14 is used to detect the temperature of hot water in hot tank 12; pressure detection unit 25 is provided in hot tank 12, and pressure detection unit 25 is used to detect the pressure in the inner cavity of hot tank 12.

[0083] When the pressure detection unit 25 detects that the pressure inside the hot tank 12 has reached the set pressure, the heating unit 15 starts heating; when the temperature detection unit 14 detects that the temperature of the hot water in the hot tank 12 has reached the target temperature, it sends a stop heating signal to make the heating unit 15 stop heating.

[0084] The water purifier in this embodiment integrates a heating unit 15, a temperature detection unit 14, and a pressure detection unit 25 in the heating tank 12 section. Under the unified scheduling of the control unit, the three can form a closed-loop logic of first pressurizing, then heating, and stopping when the temperature is reached, as detailed below:

[0085] Heating unit 15 uses a stainless steel armored heating tube; temperature detection unit 14 uses an NTC thermistor placed in the tank to provide real-time feedback of hot water temperature to the control unit; pressure detection unit 25 uses a silicon piezoresistive pressure sensor to monitor the absolute pressure inside the cavity in real time.

[0086] Standby phase: The water temperature inside the tank drops naturally. When the pressure sensor detects that the absolute pressure is lower than one standard atmosphere, the control unit does not start heating. Instead, it slightly starts the pressurization unit 4 to replenish water for a preset time, so that the pressure rises to a value greater than one standard atmosphere, such as 105 kPa, to create a positive pressure environment for bacteria.

[0087] Heating trigger: When the user draws water, causing the water level to drop, or the user manually presses the "hot water" button, the control unit confirms that the pressure exceeds 105 kPa before outputting a full-power PWM signal to the heating unit 15, and the heating element begins to heat up. This pressurization-then-heating sequence avoids the pressure surges and noise caused by the traditional simultaneous heating and vaporization.

[0088] Stop upon reaching target temperature: The NTC provides real-time sampling. When the water temperature reaches the target temperature of 100 degrees Celsius and remains there for 1 second, the control unit immediately cuts off the power to the heating unit 15 while simultaneously keeping the hot water outlet valve 19 closed. No more heat is input, and the tank enters the heat preservation phase. Because positive pressure has been established beforehand, the water temperature can remain stable at 100 degrees Celsius without boiling, resulting in minimal steam generation, and the pressure relief valve 24 does not need to be opened.

[0089] This design allows water to be heated to nearly 100 degrees Celsius at any altitude, meeting the high-temperature requirements for brewing tea and preparing formula. Furthermore, the pressure inside the tank remains higher than the external pressure throughout the process, maintaining a state of positive pressure suppression for bacteria in the heating tank 12. After 24 hours of standby, the total bacterial count is low, ensuring the water remains odorless even overnight. Heating only occurs after the pressure inside the heating tank 12 reaches the target level, eliminating popping sounds during the heating process and stopping immediately upon reaching the desired temperature, thus preventing over-boiling and steam leakage and reducing the risk of burns to zero. In addition, the heating element does not require frequent starting and stopping, extending its lifespan. During the heat preservation phase, only intermittent pressure replenishment is needed, significantly reducing daily power consumption.

[0090] Furthermore, the water purifier also includes a hot water outlet pipe 18, which is led out from the highest point of the heating tank 12 and extends upward to connect with the hot water outlet 21.

[0091] Meanwhile, the hot water outlet pipe 18 is equipped with a hot water outlet valve 19. When the hot water tank 12 is in the water production state or is heating up and the water temperature is lower than the threshold temperature (generally 90 degrees Celsius), the hot water outlet valve 19 is opened to discharge the gas in the hot water tank 12 through the hot water outlet pipe 18 and the hot water outlet 21. When the hot water tank 12 is in the heating completed state, the hot water outlet valve 19 is opened, so that the clean water injected into the first water storage chamber 1201 by the water inlet pipe 5 flows to the second water storage chamber 1202 through each through hole 2601, so that the hot water in the second water storage chamber 1202 is pressurized to the hot water outlet 21 through the hot water outlet pipe 18.

[0092] As can be seen, the hot water outlet pipe 18 extends from the highest point of the tank top and connects to the water tap 20, forming an inverted U-shaped water seal structure. During the venting stage, the hot water outlet valve 19 is in the open state. As the water flow rate increases, the air at the top of the tank is pushed by the cold water and gently discharged through the hot water outlet pipe 18.

[0093] In some embodiments, the water purifier further includes an exhaust pipe 28, a room temperature water outlet pipe 27, a heat absorption and condensation structure 29, and a water faucet 20. A hot water outlet 21 is provided at the water faucet 20. The water faucet 20 is provided with an exhaust port 23 and a room temperature water outlet 22. The exhaust pipe 28 is connected to the heat tank 12 and the exhaust port 23. The room temperature water outlet pipe 27 is connected to the purification unit 2 and the room temperature water outlet 22. The heat absorption and condensation structure 29 is connected to the room temperature water outlet pipe 27 and the exhaust pipe 28.

[0094] Furthermore, a pressure relief valve 24 is provided on the exhaust pipe 28. When the pressure relief valve 24 is opened, the steam in the hot tank 12 flows along the exhaust pipe 28 to the heat absorption and condensation structure 29. The heat absorption and condensation structure 29 condenses the steam into condensate and discharges it from the exhaust port 23. The heat absorption and condensation structure 29 can be a plate heat exchanger.

[0095] In this way, the water tap 20 integrates three channels: a hot water outlet 21, a room temperature water outlet 22, and a vent 23. The vent pipe 28 and the room temperature water outlet pipe 27 are coupled through a heat absorption and condensation structure 29 (plate heat exchanger). During the heating phase, when the water temperature reaches the threshold temperature, the hot water outlet valve 19 closes, and the steam pressure continues to rise. Once the pressure relief valve 24 is reached, it opens, and the steam enters the plate heat exchanger along the vent pipe 28, where it exchanges heat countercurrently with the room temperature water, condenses into water droplets, and is discharged from the vent 23 of the water tap 20, preventing steam leakage.

[0096] The aforementioned threshold temperature is generally set to 90 degrees Celsius. In this way, as long as the temperature detection unit 14 reports that the water temperature is below 90 degrees Celsius, the hot water outlet valve 19 remains open, forming a low-temperature exhaust path. This allows the small bubbles generated in the initial heating stage to escape from the water outlet faucet 20 with slight convection, and there is no popping sound inside the tank. When the water temperature reaches 90 degrees Celsius, the hot water outlet valve 19 is closed, and the hot water outlet pipe 18 is cut off. When the temperature is subsequently raised to 100 degrees Celsius, if the pressure detection unit 25 simultaneously measures a pressure of 105 kPa, the pressure relief valve 24 automatically opens, and the steam is quickly released through the dedicated exhaust pipe 28.

[0097] When the user sets the water temperature to above 100 degrees Celsius, during the heating process of the heating tank 12, when the temperature detection unit 14 reads that the water temperature has reached 100 degrees Celsius and the pressure detection unit 25 reads a pressure value of 105 kPa, the pressure relief valve 24 automatically opens to release pressure. The released steam is cooled along the exhaust pipe 28 through the heat absorption condensation structure 29, and is discharged as condensate before reaching the exhaust port 23 of the water outlet 20, protecting the heating system and water outlet safety and reducing steam emission. At this time, the corresponding water temperature in the heating tank 12 is 100~101 degrees Celsius. When the heating tank 12 is not heating, the pressure relief valve 24 closes, keeping the heating tank 12 in a slightly suppressed state and preventing the heating tank 12 from bursting in the event of pressure runaway.

[0098] This enables tiered exhaust management, ensuring rapid water intake during the water production phase of the hot tank 12, while maintaining positive pressure (internal pressure greater than external pressure) when the hot tank 12 is in standby mode after water production is complete. This prevents external bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants from entering the tank. Furthermore, it ensures that the hot tank 12 remains in a stable and safe state during the heating phase.

[0099] It should be noted that the so-called requirement that the internal pressure of the hot tank 12 meets the requirements for positive pressure suppression of bacteria after water production means that the reading of the pressure detection unit 25 (pressure sensor) of the hot tank 12 should meet the requirement that P-101.3kPa is greater than 8Pa after water production and before heating. This can create the effect of positive pressure suppression of bacteria. In a positive pressure environment, the internal pressure of the hot tank 12 is higher than that of the outside, and the air naturally flows outward, forming an airflow barrier to prevent external bacteria, viruses and other pollutants from entering the hot tank 12.

[0100] In some embodiments, the water inlet pipe 5 is provided with a first water inlet valve 8 and a water inlet check valve 7 (also called a non-return valve). When the first water inlet valve 8 and the pressurization unit 4 are opened, the raw water entering from the raw water inlet 1 flows into the hot water tank 12 through the purification unit 2, the first water inlet valve 8 and the water inlet check valve 7. The water inlet check valve 7 is used to prevent hot water in the hot water tank 12 from entering the purification unit 2.

[0101] It should be noted that, considering the working principle of the first inlet valve 8 is forward-stopping and reverse-zero-pressure opening, the system stops producing water when the heating unit 15 in the hot tank 12 is working. At this time, because the wastewater valve 6 is directly connected to the atmosphere, the pressure difference between the first inlet valve 8 and the reverse osmosis filter element 202 is close to zero. When the water in the hot tank 12 is heated, it will generate a certain pressure due to the thermal expansion effect. If there is no check valve between the first inlet valve 8 and the hot tank 12 at this time, the pressure will act on the outlet side of the first inlet valve 8. When the hot water boils, the pressure generated is enough to open the first inlet valve 8, and the hot water will enter the reverse osmosis filter element 202. Excessively hot water will damage the molecular structure of the membrane surface, reducing the membrane filtration performance. At the same time, when heating is stopped and room temperature water is to be produced, the first cup of water will release a mixture of hot and warm water, affecting the user's water experience.

[0102] Based on this, in this embodiment, purified water is injected into the hot water tank 12 after passing through the inlet pipe 5, the first inlet valve 8, and the inlet check valve 7. The inlet check valve 7 is located on the outlet side of the first inlet valve 8, completely blocking the backflow of hot water in the hot water tank 12 and preventing damage to the reverse osmosis filter element 202 due to high temperature and high pressure. This layout integrates filtration, pressurization, and backflow prevention into the same flow path, which simplifies the piping and improves system reliability.

[0103] To facilitate the detection of high and low water levels in the hot tank 12, this embodiment arranges a first water level detection unit 10 (low water level probe) and a second water level detection unit 11 (high water level probe) on the hot tank 12. The first water level detection unit 10 is connected to the control unit and is used to detect whether the water level in the hot tank 12 has reached the first water level 16. The second water level detection unit 11 is connected to the control unit and is used to detect whether the water level in the hot tank 12 has reached the second water level 17.

[0104] It should be noted that both probes use stainless steel electrodes and determine the water level by detecting changes in water conductivity.

[0105] When the water level in the hot tank 12 is lower than the first water level 16, the first water inlet valve 8 and the pressurization unit 4 are opened. When the water level in the hot tank 12 exceeds the second water level 17, the first water inlet valve 8 and the pressurization unit 4 are closed.

[0106] The control unit is connected to the first water level detection unit 10 and the second water level detection unit 11 by signal. The control unit is further configured to: when the water level in the hot tank 12 is lower than the first water level 16, send a water production start signal to control the pressurization unit 4 to open; when the water level in the hot tank 12 does not exceed the second water level 17, control the hot water outlet valve 19 to be in the open state.

[0107] In other words, when the water level in the hot water tank 12 is lower than the first water level 16 (the low water level probe leaves the water surface), the control unit determines that the water production stage has begun. It immediately outputs a high-level signal to fully open the hot water outlet valve 19 and activate the booster unit 4. At this time, the air at the top of the tank can be quickly discharged through the hot water outlet pipe 18 along with the incoming water flow, and a stable water flow can be established in the tank. After the water is replenished to the second water level 17, water production stops, and the hot water outlet valve 19 closes after all the residual air at the top has been completely expelled. This timing ensures that there is no air resistance during each water replenishment, and the water intake efficiency is significantly improved.

[0108] When the water level in the hot water tank 12 reaches the second water level 17, water production stops. At this time, the control unit controls the hot water outlet valve 19 to be closed and keeps the pressurization unit 4 open until the hot water tank 12 is in a state of positive pressure and bacterial suppression.

[0109] In some embodiments, the purification unit 2 includes a composite filter element 201 and a reverse osmosis filter element 202 (RO membrane filter element). The composite filter element 201 includes a pre-filter element body and a post-filter element body. The inlet of the pre-filter element body is connected to the raw water inlet 1, the outlet of the pre-filter element body is connected to the inlet of the booster unit 4, the outlet of the booster unit 4 is connected to the inlet of the reverse osmosis filter element 202, the outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element 202 is connected to the inlet of the post-filter element body, and the outlet of the post-filter element body is connected to the inlet pipe 5.

[0110] The composite filter element 201 further integrates the pre-filter body and the post-filter body, thus forming a three-stage filtration path of pre-filter, RO and post-filter.

[0111] Specifically, raw water enters the pre-filter body from the raw water inlet 1 and first passes through the composite filtration of PP cotton and activated carbon to remove large particulate impurities and residual chlorine. Then, the pressurization unit 4 provides working pressure to send the pre-treated water into the reverse osmosis filter 202. The water produced by the reverse osmosis filter 202 is then finely filtered by the post-activated carbon rod to finally obtain purified water that meets the requirements.

[0112] The water purifier also includes a second inlet valve 3 and a wastewater valve 6. The second inlet valve 3 is located on the pipeline between the pre-filter body and the pressurization unit 4, and the wastewater valve 6 is connected to the reverse osmosis filter 202 through the pipeline.

[0113] In this embodiment, a second inlet valve 3 is added between the pre-filter body and the booster unit 4, and a wastewater valve 6 is connected to the outlet side of the reverse osmosis filter 202. When the entire unit is in standby mode, the second inlet valve 3 is normally closed to cut off the raw water supply and prevent the reverse osmosis filter 202 from being under pressure for a long time. Before each water intake, the second inlet valve 3 and the wastewater valve 6 can be opened first to perform a low-pressure flush on the reverse osmosis filter 202, and then the wastewater valve 6 can be closed to start normal water production.

[0114] In addition, the water purifier also includes a return pipe 30, the hot tank 12 has an air vent 13, the return pipe 30 is connected to the air vent 13 and the water inlet of the booster unit 4, and the return pipe 30 is equipped with a return valve 31 and a return check valve 32.

[0115] When the heating status and water level signal of the hot tank 12 reach the preset conditions, the second inlet valve 3 closes, the return valve 31 and the wastewater valve 6 open, and the booster unit 4 provides power so that the water in the hot tank 12 flows through the drain port 13, the return valve 31, the return check valve 32 and the reverse osmosis filter element 202 in succession and is discharged by the wastewater valve 6.

[0116] With this configuration, under the pumping power provided by the booster unit 4, the water in the hot tank 12 can be pumped from a high water level to a low water level, and the water will enter the inlet of the booster unit 4 through the drain port 13 and the return pipe 30, and then enter the reverse osmosis filter element 202 from the outlet of the booster unit 4 and be discharged by the wastewater valve 6.

[0117] In this way, the hot tank 12 sewage discharge and reverse osmosis filter element 202 flushing are integrated into the same power circuit. When the hot tank is not used for a long time, the water, scale and sediment at the bottom of the tank are extracted through the return pipe 30, realizing the thorough sewage discharge of the hot tank 12 and avoiding the decrease in heating efficiency and odor caused by long-term scale accumulation. When the water extracted from the hot tank is clean water, it can also be used to flush the reverse osmosis filter element 202, thereby quickly removing contaminants from the surface of the reverse osmosis filter element 202, improving the cleaning efficiency of the filter element and extending the replacement cycle of the filter element.

[0118] In addition, the booster unit 4 serves two purposes: it not only provides the power to inject purified water into the hot tank 12, but also provides the power to extract water from the hot tank 12. This means that no additional power components are needed when cleaning the hot tank 12, which simplifies the structure of the water purifier and reduces costs.

[0119] In some embodiments, the return pipeline 30 is provided with a return valve 31 and a return check valve 32. The return valve 31 is used to control the opening and closing of the return pipeline 30, and the return check valve 32 is located on the outlet side of the return valve 31. The return check valve 32 is used to prevent the purified water in the return pipeline 30 from entering the hot tank 12.

[0120] In this embodiment, a return valve 31 and a return check valve 32 are sequentially installed on the return pipeline 30. The return check valve 32 is located on the outlet side of the return valve 31. The return check valve 32 is used to prevent the purified water (or raw water) on the inlet side of the booster unit 4 from flowing back into the reheat tank 12, thereby avoiding cross-contamination and improving system reliability.

[0121] The working principle of a water purifier is explained in detail below:

[0122] The process for producing room temperature water is as follows: When the water purifier is powered on for the first time and the water outlet faucet 20 issues a command for room temperature water, the second inlet valve 3 and the room temperature water outlet valve 9 are opened, and the booster unit 4 is activated. Raw water enters the machine through the raw water inlet 1, is pre-treated by the pre-filter body in the composite filter element 201, and then cross-flow filtered by the reverse osmosis filter element 202. One path is discharged through the wastewater valve 6 to form wastewater, and the other path is filtered to form pure water. After deep filtration by the post-filter body in the composite filter element 201, it is discharged through the room temperature water outlet 22 of the water outlet faucet 20. When a stop water production command is issued, water production stops.

[0123] The heating process proceeds in stages: water production, water replenishment, air venting, heating, and water discharge.

[0124] Water production: When the water faucet 20 issues a hot water command upon first power-on, the second inlet valve 3 and the first inlet valve 8 of the water purifier open, and the booster unit 4 starts working. Raw water enters the machine through the raw water inlet 1, and after pre-treatment by the pre-filter body in the composite filter element 201, it is then filtered by the reverse osmosis filter element 202. One path is discharged through the wastewater valve 6 to form wastewater, and the other path is filtered to form pure water. After deep filtration by the post-filter body in the composite filter element 201, it enters the hot water tank 12 through the first inlet valve 8 and the inlet one-way valve 7.

[0125] Water replenishment and air venting: When the water level in the hot water tank 12 reaches the first water level 16 of the first water level detection unit 10, the hot water outlet valve 19 opens to vent the air. The air in the hot water tank 12 is discharged through the air vent 23 in the water outlet faucet 20. When the water level reaches the second water level 17, the system stops producing water. At this time, the second water inlet valve 3 and the first water inlet valve 8 are closed, and the pressurization unit 4 stops working.

[0126] Heating: After the water tank 12 is replenished, the heating unit 15 starts heating. Heating stops when the target temperature is reached and the temperature sensor sends a stop heating signal.

[0127] Water Discharge: When heating is complete, if a water dispensing command is issued on the water outlet faucet 20, the system will produce water. Pure water enters the bottom of the hot water tank 12 through the inlet pipe 5, and the hot water in the hot water tank 12 is squeezed out from the bottom to the top. The hot water outlet valve 19 is opened, and the hot water is discharged through the hot water outlet 21 of the water outlet faucet 20. If the water dispensing command is stopped, water production will stop simultaneously, and the hot water outlet valve 19 will be closed. During the hot water dispensing process, the room temperature water dispensing valve 9 will be closed.

[0128] It should be noted that in this specification, relational terms such as first and second are used only to distinguish one entity from several other entities, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities.

[0129] The water purifier provided in this application has been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The descriptions of the embodiments above are only for the purpose of helping to understand the solution and core ideas of this application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make several improvements and modifications to this application without departing from the principles of this application, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A water purifier, comprising a raw water inlet (1) and a hot water outlet (21), characterized in that, It includes a purification unit (2), a pressurization unit (4), an inlet water pipe (5), and a hot water tank (12); The hot water tank (12) is connected to the hot water outlet (21). The hot water tank (12) is used to store purified water and heat the purified water to the target temperature. The purification unit (2) is connected to the raw water inlet (1), and the water inlet pipe (5) is connected to the purification unit (2) and the hot water tank (12), so that the raw water entering from the raw water inlet (1) is pressurized by the pressurizing unit (4) and flows through the purification unit (2) and then injected into the hot water tank (12) by the water inlet pipe (5), and the hot water in the hot water tank (12) that has been heated to the target temperature is pressurized to the hot water outlet (21).

2. The water purifier as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The hot tank (12) has a water distribution plate (26) inside. The water distribution plate (26) is used to divide the inner cavity of the hot tank (12) into a first water storage cavity (1201) and a second water storage cavity (1202). The first water storage cavity (1201) is connected to the water inlet pipe (5). The water distribution plate (26) is provided with a plurality of through holes (2601) connecting the first water storage cavity (1201) and the second water storage cavity (1202), so that the clean water injected into the first water storage cavity (1201) by the water inlet pipe (5) flows to the second water storage cavity (1202) through each of the through holes (2601).

3. The water purifier as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The first water storage chamber (1201) is located below the second water storage chamber (1202); It also includes a hot water outlet pipe (18), which is led out from the highest point of the hot water tank (12) and extends upward to connect with the hot water outlet (21).

4. The water purifier as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The hot water outlet pipe (18) is equipped with a hot water outlet valve (19). When the hot tank (12) is in the water production state or in the state of heating and the water temperature is lower than the threshold temperature, the hot water outlet valve (19) is opened to discharge the gas in the hot tank (12) through the hot water outlet pipe (18) and the hot water outlet (21). When the hot tank (12) is in the heating completed state, the hot water outlet valve (19) is opened so that the hot water in the second water storage chamber (1202) is pressurized to the hot water outlet (21) through the hot water outlet pipe (18).

5. The water purifier as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an exhaust pipe (28), a room temperature water outlet pipe (27), a heat absorption and condensation structure (29), and a water faucet (20). The hot water outlet (21) is located at the water faucet (20). The water faucet (20) is provided with an exhaust port (23) and a room temperature water outlet (22). The exhaust pipe (28) is connected to the heat tank (12) and the exhaust port (23). The room temperature water outlet pipe (27) is connected to the purification unit (2) and the room temperature water outlet (22). The heat absorption and condensation structure (29) is connected to the room temperature water outlet pipe (27) and the exhaust pipe (28). The exhaust pipe (28) is equipped with a pressure relief valve (24). When the pressure relief valve (24) is opened, the steam in the hot tank (12) flows along the exhaust pipe (28) to the heat absorption and condensation structure (29). The heat absorption and condensation structure (29) condenses the steam into condensate and discharges it from the exhaust port (23).

6. The water purifier as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The water inlet pipe (5) is equipped with a first water inlet valve (8) and a water inlet check valve (7). When the first water inlet valve (8) and the pressurization unit (4) are opened, the raw water entering from the raw water inlet (1) flows into the hot water tank (12) through the purification unit (2), the first water inlet valve (8) and the water inlet check valve (7). The water inlet check valve (7) is used to prevent hot water in the hot water tank (12) from entering the purification unit (2).

7. The water purifier as described in claim 6, characterized in that, Also includes: The first water level detection unit (10) is located in the hot tank (12) and is used to detect whether the water level in the hot tank (12) has reached the first water level (16). The second water level detection unit (11) is provided in the hot tank (12) and is used to detect whether the water level in the hot tank (12) has reached the second water level (17), where the second water level (17) is higher than the first water level (16). When the water in the hot tank (12) is lower than the first water level (16), the first water inlet valve (8) and the pressurization unit (4) are opened. When the water in the hot tank (12) exceeds the second water level (17), the first water inlet valve (8) and the pressurization unit (4) are closed.

8. The water purifier as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The purification unit (2) includes a composite filter element (201) and a reverse osmosis filter element (202). The composite filter element (201) includes a pre-filter element body and a post-filter element body. The inlet of the pre-filter element body is connected to the raw water inlet (1). The outlet of the pre-filter element body is connected to the inlet of the booster unit (4). The outlet of the booster unit (4) is connected to the inlet of the reverse osmosis filter element (202). The outlet of the reverse osmosis filter element (202) is connected to the inlet of the post-filter element body. The outlet of the post-filter element body is connected to the inlet pipe (5).

9. The water purifier as described in claim 8, characterized in that, It also includes a second inlet valve (3) and a wastewater valve (6). The second inlet valve (3) is located on the pipeline between the pre-filter body and the pressurization unit (4). The wastewater valve (6) is connected to the reverse osmosis filter (202) through a pipeline. It also includes a return pipeline (30), the hot tank (12) has an air vent (13), the return pipeline (30) is connected to the air vent (13) and the water inlet of the pressurization unit (4), and the return pipeline (30) is provided with a return valve (31) and a return check valve (32). When the heating state and water level signal of the hot tank (12) reach the preset conditions, the second inlet valve (3) is closed, the reflux valve (31) and the wastewater valve (6) are opened, and the booster unit (4) is used to provide power so that the water in the hot tank (12) flows through the drain port (13), the reflux valve (31), the reflux check valve (32) and the reverse osmosis filter element (202) and is discharged by the wastewater valve (6).

10. The water purifier as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A heating unit (15) is provided in the hot tank (12) for heating the purified water in the hot tank (12) to a target temperature; A temperature detection unit (14) is provided in the hot tank (12) for detecting the temperature of the hot water in the hot tank (12); A pressure detection unit (25) is provided in the hot tank (12) for detecting the pressure inside the hot tank (12); When the pressure detection unit (25) detects that the pressure inside the hot tank (12) reaches the set pressure, the heating unit (15) starts heating; when the temperature detection unit (14) detects that the temperature of the hot water in the hot tank (12) reaches the target temperature, it sends a stop heating signal so that the heating unit (15) stops heating.

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