Expansion tank, water supplementing system, hydraulic module and heating unit

Abstract

The invention discloses an expansion tank, a water supplementing system, a hydraulic module and a heating unit. The expansion tank is used for the water supplementing system and comprises a tank body, a connecting piece and a clamping piece. One of a first connecting part and a second connecting part is arranged on the tank body; the connecting piece is provided with the other one of a first connecting part and a second connecting part, an inserting space is formed in the first connecting part, a first clamping groove communicated with the inserting space is formed in the first connecting part, a second clamping groove is formed in the outer side face of the second connecting part, and the second connecting part is inserted into the inserting space. The clamping piece detachably penetrates through the first clamping groove and the second clamping groove so that the tank body and the connecting piece can be fixedly connected through the first connecting part and the second connecting part. The first clamping groove and the second clamping groove are formed in the tank body and the connecting piece, so that the tank body and the connecting piece can be fixed after the clamping piece is inserted into the first clamping groove and the second clamping groove, installation equipment does not need to participate in the installation process of the expansion tank, the occupied area of a water supplementing system can be reduced, and disassembly is easy.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of heating technology, and more specifically, to an expansion tank, a water supply system, a hydraulic module, and a heating unit. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, the expansion tank in the water replenishment system needs to be connected to the water supply pipe using flat washers and threads, which makes the installation structure relatively complex. In addition, space needs to be reserved in the water replenishment system for the installation equipment to install the expansion tank, resulting in a large area occupied by the water replenishment system and difficulty in installing and disassembling the expansion tank. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention provides an expansion tank, a water replenishment system, a hydraulic module, and a heating unit that can solve or improve the technical problem that the water replenishment system requires reserved space for the installation of equipment for the expansion tank, resulting in a large area occupied by the water replenishment system and difficulty in installing and disassembling the expansion tank.

[0004] An expansion tank according to an embodiment of the present invention is used in a water replenishment system. The expansion tank includes a tank body, a connector, and a snap-fit ​​component. The tank body is provided with one of a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion. The connector is provided with the other of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion. The first connecting portion has an insertion space and a first slot communicating with the insertion space. The outer side of the second connecting portion has a second slot. The second connecting portion is inserted into the insertion space. The snap-fit ​​component is detachably passed through the first slot and the second slot so that the tank body and the connector are fixedly connected through the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion.

[0005] Thus, by providing a first and a second locking slot on the tank and connector, the locking element can secure the tank and connector after being inserted into the first and second locking slots, thereby fixing the expansion tank in place. During disassembly, the locking element can be pulled out of the first and second locking slots to separate the tank from the connector. Therefore, no installation equipment is required during the installation of the expansion tank, eliminating the need to reserve space in the water supply system to accommodate such equipment, reducing the area occupied by the water supply system, and simplifying disassembly.

[0006] In some embodiments, the tank body is provided with a second connecting portion, the connector is provided with a first connecting portion, the expansion tank includes an air bladder, the tank body includes a receiving cavity and a through hole, the through hole connects the receiving cavity and the insertion space, the air bladder is disposed in the receiving cavity and passes through the through hole, and the air bladder is tightly fitted to the inner wall of the insertion space.

[0007] Thus, by incorporating an air bladder within the expansion tank, additional domestic water can be stored. When the heating unit is short of water, the domestic water in the air bladder can be used to replenish the heating unit. By ensuring a tight fit between the air bladder and the inner wall of the insertion space, the gap between the first and second connecting parts can be sealed during installation due to the weight of the air bladder and the tank body, thereby improving the sealing performance of the expansion tank.

[0008] In some embodiments, the tank body is provided with a second connecting portion, the connector is provided with a first connecting portion, one end of the airbag is formed with a fixing groove, one end of the second connecting portion extends with a fixing plate, and the fixing plate is fitted with the fixing groove to fix the airbag to the tank body.

[0009] In this way, by fitting the fixing plate into the fixing groove to fix the airbag to the tank, no additional fixing equipment is needed to fix the airbag to the tank, making installation and disassembly convenient.

[0010] In some embodiments, the insertion space is tapered along the airbag installation direction.

[0011] Thus, by setting the insertion space to a shape that tapers along the airbag installation direction, when the airbag is installed along the installation square, the airbag can fit more tightly against the inner wall of the insertion space, improving the sealing performance.

[0012] In some embodiments, at least one limiting groove is provided on one of the inner wall of the insertion space and the outer wall of the second connecting part. The limiting groove is separated from the first slot and the second slot. The expansion tank includes at least one sealing ring, and each sealing ring is embedded in a corresponding limiting groove. The sealing ring seals and connects the first connecting part and the second connecting part.

[0013] Thus, by providing a limiting groove on the side wall of one of the inner wall of the insertion space and the outer wall of the second connecting part, and embedding the sealing ring in the limiting groove, the sealing performance of the first connecting part and the second connecting part can be improved.

[0014] In some embodiments, the sealing ring is interference-fitted between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion.

[0015] This improves the sealing performance of the first and second connecting parts.

[0016] In some embodiments, the sealing ring is an O-ring.

[0017] This improves the sealing performance of the first and second connecting parts.

[0018] In some embodiments, a boss is formed on the inner wall of the insertion space, and the expansion tank includes a flat washer disposed between the boss and the end face of the second connecting portion.

[0019] Thus, by providing a flat washer between the boss and either the first connecting part or the second connecting part, the sealing performance of the first connecting part and the second connecting part can be improved.

[0020] In some embodiments, the snap-fit ​​component includes two snap-fit ​​arms and a connecting arm. The two snap-fit ​​arms are respectively connected to the opposite ends of the connecting arm. The snap-fit ​​arms pass through the first snap-fit ​​groove and the second snap-fit ​​groove. Each snap-fit ​​arm is provided with a clamping part. The clamping part is embedded in the second snap-fit ​​groove, and the two clamping parts clamp the second connecting part.

[0021] This improves the stability of the connection between the first and second connecting parts.

[0022] In some embodiments, the shape of the clamping portion is adapted to the shape of the periphery of the second connecting portion where the second slot is provided.

[0023] In this way, the clamping part can better clamp the first connecting part or the second connecting part.

[0024] In some embodiments, the airbag includes a liquid storage chamber, a water inlet flange, and a water outlet, the water inlet flange being movably connected to the water outlet, the water outlet communicating with the insertion space, and the water inlet flange being configured to seal the liquid storage chamber or connect the liquid storage chamber to the water outlet.

[0025] In this way, by installing a water inlet flange at the water outlet of the airbag, the liquid storage chamber of the airbag can be sealed, so that the airbag can store domestic water. When water needs to be replenished, the water outlet can be opened through the water inlet flange to replenish the stored domestic water to the heating unit.

[0026] The water replenishment system of this invention includes the expansion tank described in any of the above embodiments.

[0027] In some embodiments, the water replenishment system includes a first pipe, a second pipe, a pressure valve, a safety valve, a constant pressure water replenishment valve, an anti-backflow valve, a soft water filter, a first water replenishment ball valve, and a second water replenishment ball valve. The expansion tank is connected to the first pipe via the pressure valve. The safety valve, the constant pressure water replenishment valve, the anti-backflow valve, the soft water filter, and the first water replenishment ball valve are sequentially arranged on the first pipe. The second pipe is connected to the first pipe, and the second water replenishment ball valve is arranged on the second pipe.

[0028] Thus, by setting up a first pipe and a second pipe in the water replenishment system, channels for domestic water to enter and exit the expansion tank can be provided; by setting up a safety valve, a constant pressure water replenishment valve, an anti-backflow valve, a first water replenishment ball valve and a second water replenishment ball valve in the water replenishment system, the flow rate of water replenished to the expansion tank can be controlled, and the pressure balance of the water replenishment system can be maintained, thereby improving the safety of the water replenishment system; by setting up a soft water filter, calcium and magnesium ions can be filtered, the water quality can be softened, and the safety of the soft water system can be improved.

[0029] The hydraulic module of the present invention includes the water replenishment system described in any of the above embodiments.

[0030] The heating unit of the present invention includes the expansion tank or the water replenishment system described in any of the above embodiments, or the hydraulic module described in the above embodiments.

[0031] Additional aspects and advantages of embodiments of the invention 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 embodiments of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0032] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the water replenishment system according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an expansion tank according to certain embodiments of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along section line II-II;

[0036] Figure 4 This is another structural schematic diagram of the expansion tank according to certain embodiments of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A cross-sectional view taken along section line IV-IV;

[0038] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 Another cross-sectional view taken along section line IV-IV;

[0039] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a snap-fit ​​component according to certain embodiments of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 8 This is another structural schematic diagram of the snap-fit ​​component according to certain embodiments of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a hydraulic module according to certain embodiments of the present invention.

[0042] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0043] 300. Hydraulic module; 200. Water supply system; 210. First pipeline; 220. Second pipeline; 230. Pressure valve; 240. Safety valve; 250. Constant pressure water supply valve; 260. Anti-backflow valve; 270. Soft water filter; 280. First water supply ball valve; 290. Second water supply ball valve; 100. Expansion tank; 10. Tank body; 11. Receiving cavity; 12. Through hole; 20. Connecting parts; 3 0. Snap-fit ​​component; 31. Snap-fit ​​arm; 311. Clamping part; 32. Connecting arm; 40. First connecting part; 41. Insertion space; 411. Boss; 42. First slot; 43. Fixing plate; 50. Second connecting part; 51. Second slot; 60. Airbag; 61. Fixing groove; 62. Liquid storage chamber; 63. Water inlet flange; 64. Water outlet; 70. Limiting groove; 80. Sealing ring; 90. Flat washer. Detailed Implementation

[0044] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these 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 the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0045] In the description of this invention, 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," and "counterclockwise," etc., indicating orientations or positional relationships, are based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing the invention 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 the invention. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0046] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection. They can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection. They can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, and they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0047] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0048] This disclosure provides numerous different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the invention. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described herein. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples; such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. Additionally, examples of various specific processes and materials are provided in this invention, but those skilled in the art will recognize the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0049] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 An expansion tank 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is used in a water replenishment system 200. The expansion tank 100 includes a tank body 10, a connector 20, and a snap-fit ​​connector 30. The tank body 10 is provided with one of a first connecting portion 40 and a second connecting portion 50. The connector 20 is provided with the other of the first connecting portion 40 and the second connecting portion 50. The first connecting portion 40 is provided with an insertion space 41 and a first slot 42 communicating with the insertion space 41. The outer side of the second connecting portion 50 is provided with a second slot 51. The second connecting portion 50 is inserted into the insertion space 41. The snap-fit ​​connector 30 is detachably passed through the first slot 42 and the second slot 51 so that the tank body 10 and the connector 20 are fixedly connected through the first connecting portion 40 and the second connecting portion 50.

[0050] Thus, by providing a first slot 42 and a second slot 51 on the tank body 10 and the connector 20, the snap-fit ​​component 30 can fix the tank body 10 and the connector 20 after being inserted into the first slot 42 and the second slot 51, thereby securing the expansion tank 100. During disassembly, the snap-fit ​​component 30 can be pulled out from the first slot 42 and the second slot 51 to separate the tank body 10 from the connector 20. Therefore, no installation equipment is required during the installation of the expansion tank 100, eliminating the need to reserve space in the water supply system 200 to accommodate the installation equipment, reducing the water system's footprint, and simplifying disassembly.

[0051] The water supply system 200 can be applied to, but is not limited to, the hydraulic module 300. The hydraulic module 300 can be applied to a heating unit. In one embodiment, the heating unit may include an outdoor unit, a domestic water tank, a gas boiler, a zone one system, and a zone two system. The hydraulic module 300 can be connected to the outdoor unit, the domestic water tank, the gas boiler, the zone one system, and the zone two system via pipes. The outdoor unit may include a heat pump system, which can heat cold water into hot water and distribute the hot water to the hydraulic module 300.

[0052] A gas boiler can use the heat generated during gas combustion to heat cold water to produce hot water. The hot water output from the gas boiler is distributed by a hydraulic module 300.

[0053] Optionally, the heating unit also includes solar panels, and the hydraulic module 300 is connected to the solar panels via pipes. The solar panels are used to generate electricity using solar energy, and use the electricity to heat cold water to form hot water, which can be transmitted to the hydraulic module 300 for distribution.

[0054] Firstly, the hydraulic module 300 can deliver hot water to the coil inside the domestic water tank. The hot water then transfers heat through the coil to the domestic water in the tank, raising its temperature. The domestic water tank can be connected to faucets, showerheads, and other water outlet valves, allowing the heated domestic water to be supplied to users.

[0055] Secondly, the hydraulic module 300 can deliver hot water to a zone system, which may include heaters suspended from the indoor ceiling, including but not limited to fan coil units (FCUs). The fan coil units can dissipate the heat from the hot water into the room, raising the indoor temperature.

[0056] Thirdly, the hydraulic module 300 can deliver hot water to the Zone 2 system, which may include underfloor heating and / or radiators. Underfloor heating can radiate the heat from the hot water to the floor, while radiators can radiate the heat from the hot water into the room, thereby raising the temperature of the floor and the room.

[0057] The hydraulic module 300 can integrate various components installed by the client, facilitating customer installation and maintenance. Optionally, in one embodiment, the hydraulic module 300 includes structural components and system components. Structural components include, but are not limited to: chassis, frame, door panel, top cover, decorative ring, etc.; system components include, but are not limited to: ball valve, magnetic filter, buffer energy storage tank, mixing valve (three-way valve), water pump, air vent valve, safety valve 240, water pressure gauge, expansion tank 100, anti-backflow valve 260, constant pressure water supply valve 250, soft water filter 270, etc.

[0058] The water replenishment system 200 integrates various components installed at the client's location, facilitating installation and maintenance. The water replenishment system 200 includes, but is not limited to: ball valves, magnetic filters, buffer storage tanks, mixing valves (three-way valves), water pumps, air vents, safety valves 240, pressure gauges, expansion tanks 100, anti-backflow valves 260, constant pressure water replenishment valves 250, and soft water filters 270. When the water replenishment system 200 detects a lack of domestic water in the hydraulic module 300, it replenishes the hydraulic module 300 with domestic water. For example, the water replenishment system 200 can supply domestic water to the hydraulic module 300 for distribution, and the hydraulic module 300 can then deliver the domestic water to the domestic water tank, outdoor unit, or heating device.

[0059] Specifically, the expansion tank 100 can be a system component of the aforementioned water replenishment system 200. The expansion tank 100 includes a tank body 10, a connector 20, and a snap-fit ​​connector 30. The shape of the tank body 10 can be circular or square, or other shapes that can adapt to the accommodating space of the water replenishment system 200. The tank body 10 has a hollow accommodating space inside, so that the tank body 10 can be used to provide the space required for storing domestic water.

[0060] The tank body 10 is provided with one of the first connecting part 40 and the second connecting part 50, while the connector 20 is provided with the other of the first connecting part 40 and the second connecting part 50. For example, if the first connecting part 40 is provided on the tank body 10, then the second connecting part 50 is provided on the connector 20; if the first connecting part 40 is provided on the connector 20, then the second connecting part 50 is provided on the tank body 10.

[0061] An insertion space 41 is provided inside the first connecting portion 40. The size of the insertion space 41 is adapted to the size of the first connecting portion 40, allowing the second connecting portion 50 to extend into the insertion space 41. The insertion space 41 has a tapering shape along the installation direction of the airbag 60; for example, the shape of the insertion space 41 can be conical. Thus, by setting the insertion space 41 to a tapering shape along the installation direction of the airbag 60, when the airbag 60 is installed along the installation direction, the airbag 60 can be more tightly fitted to the inner wall of the insertion space 41, improving the sealing performance.

[0062] Furthermore, a first slot 42 communicating with the insertion space 41 is provided on the side wall of the first connecting part 40, and a second slot 51 is provided on the outer side surface of the second connecting part 50. The size of the first slot 42 and the second slot 51 are adapted to the size of the snap-fit ​​member 30, so that the snap-fit ​​member 30 can extend into the first slot 42 and the second slot 51.

[0063] The snap-fit ​​component 30 is detachably inserted through the first slot 42 and the second slot 51. When disassembling the first and second components, the snap-fit ​​component 30 can be removed, thereby releasing the connection lock between the first and second components and allowing them to be separated. During installation, the second connecting part 50 is inserted into the insertion space 41 of the first connecting part 40, aligning and communicating the first slot 42 with the second slot 51. Then, the snap-fit ​​component 30 is snapped into the first slot 42 and the second slot 51 to securely connect the first connecting part 40 and the second connecting part 50, thus securing the first and second components. In summary, this reduces the operating space to a certain extent, making after-sales component replacement easier, and the entire process is essentially tool-free. The snap-fit ​​component 30 includes, but is not limited to, snap-fit ​​pins (…). Figure 4 ),card( Figure 5 )wait.

[0064] For example, if the first connecting part 40 is provided on the tank body 10, then the second connecting part 50 is provided on the connector 20. After the connector 20 is inserted into the insertion space 41 formed by the tank body 10, the snap-fit ​​30 can pass through the first slot 42 and the second slot 51 in sequence, so that the snap-fit ​​30 contacts the first connecting part 40 and the second connector 20 respectively, thereby fixing the tank body 10 and the connector 20. After the snap-fit ​​30 is pulled out from the second slot 51 and the first slot 42 in sequence, the snap-fit ​​30 separates from the first connecting part 40 and the second connector 20 respectively, thereby separating the tank body 10 and the connector 20.

[0065] For example, if the first connecting part 40 is provided on the connector 20, then the second connecting part 50 is provided on the tank body 10. After the connector 20 is inserted into the insertion space 41 formed by the connector 20, the snap-fit ​​30 can pass through the first slot 42 and the second slot 51 in sequence, so that the snap-fit ​​30 contacts the first connecting part 40 and the second connector 20 respectively, thereby fixing the tank body 10 and the connector 20. After the snap-fit ​​30 is pulled out from the second slot 51 and the first slot 42 in sequence, the snap-fit ​​30 separates from the first connecting part 40 and the second connector 20 respectively, thereby separating the tank body 10 and the connector 20.

[0066] Please see Figure 3 In some embodiments, the tank body 10 is provided with a second connecting part 50, the connector 20 is provided with a first connecting part 40, the expansion tank 100 includes an air bladder 60, the tank body 10 includes a receiving cavity 11 and a through hole 12, the through hole 12 connects the receiving cavity 11 and the insertion space 41, the air bladder 60 is disposed in the receiving cavity 11 and passes through the through hole 12, and the air bladder 60 is tightly fitted to the inner wall of the insertion space 41.

[0067] Thus, by incorporating an air bladder 60 within the expansion tank 100, additional domestic water can be stored. When the heating unit is short of water, the domestic water in the air bladder 60 can be replenished to the heating unit. By tightly fitting the air bladder 60 against the inner wall of the insertion space 41, the gap between the first connection portion 40 and the second connection portion 50 can be sealed during installation due to the weight of the air bladder 60 and the tank body 10, thereby improving the sealing performance of the expansion tank 100.

[0068] Specifically, the expansion tank 100 includes an air bladder 60, which can be used to store domestic water. The air bladder 60 is disposed in the receiving cavity 11 formed by the tank body 10, and when domestic water enters the air bladder 60, the air bladder 60 can inflate in the receiving cavity 11, thereby storing a certain amount of domestic water. A through hole 12 is provided at one end of the tank body 10 near the insertion space 41. The through hole 12 can connect the receiving cavity 11 and the insertion space 41, and the air bladder 60 can pass through the through hole 12 and connect to one of the first connecting part 40 and the second connecting part 50, so that domestic water entering the insertion space 41 can enter the air bladder 60 for storage, or domestic water stored in the air bladder 60 can flow into the insertion space 41. After the tank body 10 is fixedly connected to the connector 20, the air bladder 60 can contact the inner wall of the insertion space 41, so that the air bladder 60 can seal the gap between the liquid storage cavity 62 and the insertion space 41 under the action of gravity, preventing domestic water from flowing out of the expansion tank 100.

[0069] For example, when the first connecting part 40 is provided on the tank body 10, the airbag 60 can be fixedly connected to the first connecting part 40, thereby allowing the airbag 60 to be fixedly connected to the tank body 10; when the second connecting part 50 is provided on the tank body 10, the airbag 60 can be fixedly connected to the second connecting part 50, thereby allowing the airbag 60 to be fixedly connected to the tank body 10.

[0070] Please see Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some embodiments, the tank body 10 is provided with a second connecting part 50, the connector 20 is provided with a first connecting part 40, one end of the airbag 60 is formed with a fixing groove 61, one end of the second connecting part 50 extends with a fixing plate 43, and the fixing plate 43 is fitted with the fixing groove 61 to fix the airbag 60 to the tank body 10.

[0071] Thus, by fitting the fixing plate 43 into the fixing groove 61 to fix the airbag 60 to the tank 10, no additional fixing equipment is needed to fix the airbag 60 to the tank 10, making installation and disassembly convenient.

[0072] Specifically, the tank body 10 is provided with a second connecting part 50, and the connector 20 is provided with a first connecting part 40. The airbag 60 is fixedly connected to the tank body 10 by forming a fixing groove 61 on the end of the airbag 60 away from the receiving cavity 11, and a fixing plate 43 is provided on the end of the second connecting part 50 away from the receiving cavity 11. The shape of the fixing groove 61 is adapted to the shape of the fixing plate 43, so that during the installation of the airbag 60, the fixing plate 43 can be inserted into the fixing groove 61 and fitted, thereby fixing the airbag 60 to the tank body 10.

[0073] Optionally, in one embodiment, the airbag 60 and the tank 10 can be fixedly connected by bolts, by making screw holes on the airbag 60 or the tank 10 so that the nut can pass through the screw holes to fix the airbag 60 and the tank 10.

[0074] Please refer to it again. Figure 3 In some embodiments, at least one limiting groove 70 is provided on one of the inner wall of the insertion space 41 and the outer wall of the second connecting part 50. The limiting groove 70 is separated from the first slot 42 and the second slot 51. The expansion tank 100 includes at least one sealing ring 80. Each sealing ring 80 is embedded in a corresponding limiting groove 70. The sealing ring 80 seals the connection between the first connecting part 40 and the second connecting part 50.

[0075] Thus, by providing a limiting groove 70 on one of the inner wall of the insertion space 41 and the outer wall of the second connecting part 50, and embedding the sealing ring 80 in the limiting groove 70, the sealing performance of the first connecting part 40 and the second connecting part 50 can be improved.

[0076] Specifically, at least one limiting groove 70 is provided on the side wall of one of the first connecting part 40 and the second connecting part 50, and each sealing ring 80 is embedded in a corresponding limiting groove 70, so that the sealing ring 80 can be limited by the limiting groove 70, and the position of the sealing ring 80 will not or is not easily changed, thereby reducing the occurrence of sealing failure or reduced sealing performance due to the displacement of the sealing ring 80 to a certain extent.

[0077] The number of sealing rings 80 and limiting grooves 70 can be determined according to specific requirements (such as pressure requirements). The first connecting part 40 and the second connecting part 50 are sealed together by a sealing ring 80, and each sealing ring 80 is correspondingly embedded in a limiting groove 70.

[0078] In one example, the sealing ring 80 can be a rubber ring or a silicone ring, and the shape of the limiting groove 70 is adapted to the shape of the sealing ring 80, thereby better limiting the sealing ring 80.

[0079] Please see Figure 6 In some embodiments, the sealing ring 80 is interference-fitted between the first connecting portion 40 and the second connecting portion 50.

[0080] This improves the sealing performance of the first connecting part 40 and the second connecting part 50.

[0081] Specifically, the sealing ring 80 is sandwiched between the outer wall of the second connecting portion 50 and the inner wall of the first connecting portion 40, causing the sealing ring 80 to undergo a certain degree of elastic deformation under the compression of the first connecting portion 40 and the second connecting portion 50. On the one hand, the elastically deformed sealing ring 80 can provide a larger contact area with the first connecting portion 40 and the second connecting portion 50. On the other hand, the elastically deformed sealing ring 80 can form a tighter contact with the first connecting portion 40 and the second connecting portion 50, thereby improving the sealing performance between the first connecting portion 40 and the second connecting portion 50, and improving the pressure-bearing performance between the first connecting portion 40 and the second connecting portion 50. Furthermore, the elastically deformed sealing ring 80 can fill the limiting groove 70 more tightly, thereby further reducing the occurrence of displacement of the sealing ring 80.

[0082] In some embodiments, the sealing ring 80 is an O-ring 80.

[0083] This improves the sealing performance of the first connecting part 40 and the second connecting part 50.

[0084] Specifically, the O-ring 80 has an O-shaped or circular cross-section. When the O-ring 80 is compressed by the first connecting part 40 and the second connecting part 50, it can extend and deform along the inner wall of the first connecting part 40 and the outer wall of the second connecting part 50, thereby increasing the contact area and bonding force between the O-ring 80 and the first connecting part 40 and the second connecting part 50, thus improving the sealing performance.

[0085] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 6 In some embodiments, a boss 411 is formed on the inner wall of the insertion space 41, and the expansion tank 100 includes a flat washer 90, which is disposed between the boss 411 and the end face of the second connecting portion 50.

[0086] Thus, by providing a flat washer 90 between the boss 411 and one of the first connecting portion 40 and the second connecting portion 50, the sealing performance of the first connecting portion 40 and the second connecting portion 50 can be improved.

[0087] Specifically, a boss 411 is formed on the inner wall of the insertion space 41 at the end away from the liquid storage chamber 62. The boss 411 can be used to receive either the first connecting part 40 or the second connecting part 50. For example, when the first connecting part 40 extends into the insertion space 41, the boss 411 can be used to receive the first connecting part 40; when the second connecting part 50 extends into the insertion space 41, the boss 411 can be used to receive the second connecting part 50.

[0088] The expansion tank 100 also includes a flat washer 90, which can be a rubber ring or a silicone ring, and is disposed between the boss 411 and either the first connecting portion 40 or the second connecting portion 50. For example, when the first connecting portion 40 extends into the insertion space 41, the flat washer 90 is disposed between the boss 411 and the first connecting portion 40; when the second connecting portion 50 extends into the insertion space 41, the flat washer 90 is disposed between the boss 411 and the second connecting portion 50. Thus, the flat washer 90 can be used to seal the gap between the outer wall of the first connecting portion 40 or the outer wall of the second connecting portion 50 and the inner wall of the insertion space 41.

[0089] Please see Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 In some embodiments, the snap-fit ​​member 30 includes two snap-fit ​​arms 31 and a connecting arm 32. The two snap-fit ​​arms 31 are respectively connected to the two opposite ends of the connecting arm 32. The snap-fit ​​arms 31 pass through the first snap-fit ​​groove 42 and the second snap-fit ​​groove 51. Each snap-fit ​​arm 31 is provided with a clamping part 311. The clamping part 311 is embedded in the second snap-fit ​​groove 51. The two clamping parts 311 clamp the second connecting part 50.

[0090] This improves the stability of the connection between the snap-fit ​​connector 30 and the first connecting part 40 and the second connecting part 50.

[0091] Specifically, the snap-fit ​​component 30 includes two snap-fit ​​arms 31 and a connecting arm 32. The two snap-fit ​​arms 31 are respectively connected to the two opposite ends of the connecting arm 32. The snap-fit ​​arms 31 pass through the first snap-fit ​​groove 42 and the second snap-fit ​​groove 51. Each snap-fit ​​arm 31 is provided with a clamping part 311, which is embedded in the second snap-fit ​​groove 51.

[0092] After the second connecting part 50 is inserted into the insertion space 41 of the first connecting part 40, the two clamping parts 311 clamp the second connecting part 50. The clamping parts 311 clamp and fix the second connecting part 50 at the second slot 51, making the second connecting part 50 less likely to wobble. At the same time, since the locking arm 31 passes through the first slot 42 and the clamping part 311 is embedded in the second slot 51, the second connecting part 50 cannot be pulled out of the insertion space 41, which can improve the stability of the connection between the locking member 30 and the first connecting part 40 and the second connecting part 50.

[0093] After the first connecting part 40 is inserted into the insertion space 41 of the second connecting part 50, the two clamping parts 311 clamp the first connecting part 40. The clamping parts 311 clamp and fix the first connecting part 40 at the second slot 51, making the first connecting part 40 less likely to wobble. At the same time, since the locking arm 31 passes through the first slot 42 and the clamping part 311 is embedded in the second slot 51, the first connecting part 40 cannot be pulled out of the insertion space 41, which can improve the stability of the connection between the locking member 30 and the first connecting part 40 and the second connecting part 50.

[0094] In some embodiments, the shape of the clamping part 311 is adapted to the shape of the periphery of the second connecting part 50 where the second slot 51 is provided.

[0095] In this way, the clamping part 311 can better clamp the first connecting part 40 or the second connecting part 50.

[0096] Specifically, when the second connecting part 50 is inserted into the insertion hole of the first connecting part 40, the second connecting part 50 has a cylindrical periphery with a second slot 51, and the clamping part 311 is an arc shape that matches the cylindrical shape. This allows the clamping part 311 to fit better with the second connecting part 50, and the contact area between the clamping part 311 and the second connecting part 50 is large, reducing or avoiding the shaking of the second connecting part 50 and making the clamping of the second connecting part 50 more stable.

[0097] When the first connecting part 40 is inserted into the insertion hole of the second connecting part 50, the periphery of the second slot 51 of the first connecting part 40 is cylindrical, and the clamping part 311 is an arc shape that matches the above-mentioned cylindrical shape. This allows the clamping part 311 to fit better with the first connecting part 40. The contact area between the clamping part 311 and the first connecting part 40 is large, reducing or avoiding the shaking of the first connecting part 40 and making the clamping of the first connecting part 40 more stable.

[0098] It is understood that in other embodiments, the periphery of the second slot 51 may be in other shapes, such as square prism, polygonal prism, etc., and is not limited to cylindrical.

[0099] Please see Figure 6 In some embodiments, the airbag 60 includes a liquid storage chamber 62, a water inlet flange 63, and a water outlet 64. The water inlet flange 63 is movably connected to the water outlet 64, and the water outlet 64 communicates with the insertion space 41. The water inlet flange 63 is configured to seal the liquid storage chamber 62 or connect the liquid storage chamber 62 and the water outlet 64.

[0100] Thus, by setting an inlet flange 63 at the water outlet 64 of the airbag 60, the liquid storage chamber 62 of the airbag 60 can be sealed, so that the airbag 60 can store domestic water, and when water needs to be replenished, the water outlet 64 can be opened through the inlet flange 63 to replenish the stored domestic water to the heating unit.

[0101] Specifically, the airbag 60 also includes a water inlet flange 63 and a water outlet 64. The water outlet 64 connects the liquid storage chamber 62 and the insertion space 41, while the water inlet flange 63 is shaped like a plum blossom and is located at the water outlet 64. This allows the water inlet flange 63 to seal the gap between the liquid storage chamber 62 and the insertion space 41 under the pressure difference between them, or to open the water outlet 64 under the pressure difference between the liquid storage chamber 62 and the insertion space 41, allowing domestic water in the liquid storage chamber 62 to enter the insertion space 41.

[0102] Please see Figure 1 A water replenishment system 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an expansion tank 100 of any of the above embodiments.

[0103] Specifically, the water replenishment system 200 can be applied to, but is not limited to, heating units. The water replenishment system 200 can replenish domestic water to system modules that are short of water. The water replenishment system 200 can distribute domestic water to Zone 1 system, Zone 2 system, and domestic water tank to replenish the domestic water consumption of Zone 1 system and Zone 2 system, as well as to replenish the domestic water consumption in the domestic water tank.

[0104] Please refer to it again. Figure 1In some embodiments, the water replenishment system 200 includes a first pipe 210, a second pipe 220, a pressure valve 230, a safety valve 240, a constant pressure water replenishment valve 250, an anti-backflow valve 260, a soft water filter 270, a first water replenishment ball valve 280, and a second water replenishment ball valve 290. The expansion tank 100 is connected to the first pipe 210 via the pressure valve 230. The safety valve 240, the constant pressure water replenishment valve 250, the anti-backflow valve 260, the soft water filter 270, and the first water replenishment ball valve 280 are sequentially arranged on the first pipe 210. The second pipe 220 is connected to the first pipe 210, and the second water replenishment ball valve 290 is arranged on the second pipe 220.

[0105] Thus, by setting the first pipe 210 and the second pipe 220 in the water replenishment system 200, channels for domestic water to enter and exit the expansion tank 100 can be provided; by setting the safety valve 240, the constant pressure water replenishment valve 250, the anti-backflow valve 260, the first water replenishment ball valve 280 and the second water replenishment ball valve 290 in the water replenishment system 200, the flow rate of water replenished to the expansion tank 100 can be controlled, and the pressure balance of the water replenishment system 200 can be maintained, thereby improving the safety of the water replenishment system 200; by setting the soft water filter 270, calcium and magnesium ions can be filtered, the water quality can be softened, and the safety of the soft water system can be improved.

[0106] Specifically, the water replenishment system 200 includes a first pipe 210, a second pipe 220, a pressure valve 230, a safety valve 240, a constant pressure water replenishment valve 250, an anti-backflow valve 260, a soft water filter 270, a first water replenishment ball valve 280, and a second water replenishment ball valve 290. The first pipe 210 serves as a channel for domestic water flow. The expansion tank 100 is connected to the first pipe 210 via the pressure valve 230. When the pressure valve 230 detects a pressure difference between the first pipe 210 and the expansion tank 100, it controls the inlet flange 63 to open the outlet port 64, allowing domestic water stored in the air bladder 60 to enter the first pipe 210. The first pipe 210 is also connected to a domestic water tank, replenishing the domestic water supply. The safety valve 240 is connected to the first pipe 210 and automatically releases pressure when a certain pressure is reached within the first pipe 210, ensuring the safety of the first pipe 210 to a certain extent.

[0107] A constant pressure water supply valve 250, an anti-backflow valve 260, a soft water filter 270, and a first water supply ball valve 280 are sequentially installed on the first pipe 210. The constant pressure water supply valve 250 and the first water supply ball valve 280 can control the supply of domestic water stored in the expansion tank 100 to the first pipe 210 when a low pressure is detected within the pipe. The first water supply ball valve 280 can also connect to a heating device, thereby supplying domestic water to the heating device, which may include, but is not limited to, an outdoor unit, a gas boiler, or a solar water heater. The anti-backflow valve 260 can be a BA anti-backflow valve 260, which prevents the backflow of domestic water in the first pipe 210. The soft water filter 270 can remove calcium and magnesium ions present in the domestic water, softening the water quality.

[0108] The second pipe 220 can serve as a channel for domestic water to flow through. The second pipe 220 can be connected to the first pipe 210, and the second water supply ball valve 290 is installed on the second pipe 220. Tap water can enter the first pipe 210 through the second water supply ball valve 290 and then flow into the expansion tank 100.

[0109] Please see Figure 9 A hydraulic module 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a water replenishment system 200 according to any of the above embodiments.

[0110] Specifically, the hydraulic module 300 can integrate various components installed by the client, facilitating installation and maintenance. Optionally, in one embodiment, the hydraulic module 300 includes structural components and system components. Structural components include, but are not limited to: chassis, frame, door panel, top cover, decorative ring, etc.; system components include, but are not limited to: ball valve, magnetic filter, buffer storage tank, mixing valve (three-way valve), water pump, air vent valve, safety valve, water pressure gauge, expansion tank, anti-backflow valve, constant pressure water supply valve, soft water filter, etc.

[0111] Please see Figure 9 A heating unit according to an embodiment of the present invention includes the expansion tank 100 described in any of the above embodiments, the water replenishment system 200 described in any of the above embodiments, or the hydraulic module 300 described in the above embodiments.

[0112] Specifically, in one embodiment, the heating unit (not shown in the accompanying drawings) may include an outdoor unit, a domestic water tank, a gas boiler, a zone one system, and a zone two system. A hydraulic module 300 can be connected to the outdoor unit, domestic water tank, gas boiler, zone one system, and zone two system via pipes. A water supply system 200 can deliver domestic water to the hydraulic module 300 for distribution. The outdoor unit may include a heat pump system, which can heat cold water into hot water and distribute the hot water to the zone one system and zone two system. When the outdoor unit is short of water, the water supply system 200 can replenish the outdoor unit with domestic water.

[0113] The gas boiler uses the heat generated during gas combustion to heat cold water to produce hot water. The hot water output from the gas boiler is distributed to Zone 1 and Zone 2 systems. When the gas boiler is short of water, the water supply system 200 can replenish the gas boiler with domestic water.

[0114] Optionally, the heating unit also includes solar panels, and a water supply system 200 is connected to the solar panels via pipes. The solar panels are used to directly heat cold water to produce hot water using solar energy, which can be distributed to Zone 1 and Zone 2 systems. When the solar panels are short of water, the water supply system 200 can replenish the solar panels with domestic water.

[0115] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "some embodiments," "in one example," and "exemplarily" indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. 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. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0116] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are optional and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An expansion tank for a water replenishment system, characterized in that, The expansion tank includes: Tank body, connectors and snap-fit ​​parts; The tank body is provided with one of a first connecting part and a second connecting part; The connector has one of the first connecting part and the other of the second connecting part. The first connecting part has an insertion space and a first slot communicating with the insertion space. The second connecting part has a second slot on its outer side. The second connecting part is inserted into the insertion space. The snap-fit ​​component is detachably passed through the first slot and the second slot so that the tank and the connector are fixedly connected through the first connecting part and the second connecting part.

2. The expansion tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, The can body is provided with a second connecting part, the connector is provided with a first connecting part, the expansion can includes an air bladder, the can body includes a receiving cavity and a through hole, the through hole connects the receiving cavity and the insertion space, the air bladder is disposed in the receiving cavity and passes through the through hole, and the air bladder is tightly fitted to the inner wall of the insertion space.

3. The expansion tank according to claim 2, characterized in that, The tank body is provided with a second connecting part, the connector is provided with a first connecting part, one end of the airbag is formed with a fixing groove, one end of the second connecting part extends with a fixing plate, and the fixing plate is fitted with the fixing groove to fix the airbag to the tank body.

4. The expansion tank according to claim 2, characterized in that, The insertion space is tapered along the airbag installation direction.

5. The expansion tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one limiting groove is provided on one of the inner wall of the insertion space and the outer wall of the second connecting part. The limiting groove is separated from the first slot and the second slot. The expansion tank includes at least one sealing ring. Each sealing ring is embedded in a corresponding limiting groove. The sealing ring seals and connects the first connecting part and the second connecting part.

6. The expansion tank according to claim 5, characterized in that, The sealing ring is interference-fitted between the first connecting part and the second connecting part.

7. The expansion tank according to claim 5, characterized in that, The sealing ring is an O-ring.

8. The expansion tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, A boss is formed on the inner wall of the insertion space, and the expansion tank includes a flat washer disposed between the boss and the end face of the second connecting part.

9. The expansion tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, The snap-fit ​​component includes two snap-fit ​​arms and a connecting arm. The two snap-fit ​​arms are respectively connected to the two opposite ends of the connecting arm. The snap-fit ​​arms pass through the first snap-fit ​​groove and the second snap-fit ​​groove. Each snap-fit ​​arm is provided with a clamping part. The clamping part is embedded in the second snap-fit ​​groove. The two clamping parts clamp the second connecting part.

10. The expansion tank according to claim 9, characterized in that, The shape of the clamping part is adapted to the shape of the periphery of the second connecting part where the second slot is provided.

11. The expansion tank according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The expansion tank includes an air bladder, which includes a liquid storage chamber, a water inlet flange, and a water outlet. The water inlet flange is movably connected to the water outlet, and the water outlet communicates with the insertion space. The water inlet flange is configured to seal the liquid storage chamber or connect the liquid storage chamber with the water outlet.

12. A water replenishment system, characterized in that, Includes the expansion tank as described in any one of claims 1-11.

13. The water replenishment system according to claim 12, characterized in that, The water replenishment system includes a first pipe, a second pipe, a pressure valve, a safety valve, a constant pressure water replenishment valve, an anti-backflow valve, a soft water filter, a first water replenishment ball valve, and a second water replenishment ball valve. The expansion tank is connected to the first pipe through the pressure valve. The safety valve, the constant pressure water replenishment valve, the anti-backflow valve, the soft water filter, and the first water replenishment ball valve are sequentially installed on the first pipe. The second pipe is connected to the first pipe, and the second water replenishment ball valve is installed on the second pipe.

14. A hydraulic module, characterized in that, Includes the water replenishment system as described in claim 12 or 13.

15. A heating unit, characterized in that, It includes the expansion tank as described in any one of claims 1-11, the water replenishment system as described in claim 12 or 13, or the hydraulic module as described in claim 14.

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