Water scale prevention high-precision electric control constant temperature valve

Abstract

This invention discloses a high-precision electrically controlled thermostatic valve that prevents scale buildup, comprising a valve body, a cold water chamber, a hot water chamber, a mixing chamber, a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet, a mixing water outlet, and a regulating valve shaft. The regulating valve shaft is equipped with an inner sealing column section, a cold water annular groove section, and a hot water annular groove section. A cold water opening sealing assembly is coaxially mounted outside the regulating valve shaft within the cold water chamber, and a hot water opening sealing assembly is coaxially mounted outside the regulating valve shaft within the hot water chamber. The cold water opening sealing assembly includes a cold water metal ring and a cold water inner lip seal, and the hot water opening sealing assembly includes a hot water metal ring and a hot water inner lip seal. This electrically controlled thermostatic valve, through an innovative combination structure of metal ring and lip seal, cleverly integrates the functions of scale removal and dynamic zero-leakage sealing, solving the industry pain points of traditional thermostatic valves such as easy scaling, poor sealing, and low regulating accuracy.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of thermostatic valves, and more particularly to a high-precision electrically controlled thermostatic valve that prevents scale buildup. Background Technology

[0002] A thermostatic valve core is a device that adjusts the mixing ratio of hot and cold water to obtain a constant temperature of mixed water. The thermostatic valve core primarily utilizes the principle of thermal expansion and contraction. When the temperature of the hot or cold water changes, the thermostatic element inside the valve core senses the temperature change and expands or contracts accordingly. This changes the opening degree of the hot and cold water inlets, ultimately causing the mixed water temperature to tend towards a constant level. The thermostatic valve core also has a temperature-regulating component for adjusting the set temperature. This component moves the thermostatic element. With prolonged use, due to continuous water flow, scale will accumulate on the surface of the thermostatic element, affecting the adjustment accuracy of the valve core. In severe cases, it may cause the thermostatic valve core to lose its temperature regulation and constant temperature capabilities.

[0003] CN218972915U discloses an electronic thermostatic valve core, including a mixing chamber, a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet, and a mixing outlet connected to the mixing chamber. A mixing valve rod and a linear motor that drives the mixing valve rod to move back and forth are provided in the mixing chamber. The mixing valve rod is provided with a plug for adjusting the water ratio between the cold water inlet and the hot water inlet. This electronic thermostatic valve core uses a linear motor to directly drive the mixing valve rod to move back and forth to control the opening of the hot water outlet. Compared with the traditional temperature sensing rod, its opening adjustment range is increased and the adjustment accuracy is improved. At the same time, the internal structure is simplified, it is less affected by water quality, and the temperature regulation capability is significantly improved.

[0004] However, this type of thermostatic valve core still has unresolved technical problems, which are analyzed as follows: Both ends of the plug are provided with plug conical surfaces. The cold water inlet is provided with a cold water sealing conical surface corresponding to the plug conical surface, and the hot water inlet is provided with a hot water sealing conical surface corresponding to the plug conical surface. The distance between the plug conical surface and the cold water sealing conical surface is used as the cold water opening degree. When the plug conical surface is fully against the cold water sealing conical surface, the cold water inlet is closed. The distance between the plug conical surface and the cold water sealing conical surface is used as the hot water opening degree. When the plug conical surface is fully against the hot water sealing conical surface, the hot water inlet is closed. When scale accumulates on one or both of the plug cones or the hot water sealing cone, the scale prevents a complete seal between the two cones when the hot water valve needs to be closed, resulting in hot water loss and waste. Similarly, when scale accumulates on one or both of the plug cones or the cold water sealing cone, the scale prevents a complete seal between the two cones when the cold water valve needs to be closed, allowing cold water to seep in. This results in a temperature lower than when the cold water valve is fully closed, affecting user experience. As scale continues to accumulate within the cones, the valve may eventually fail to close completely, causing it to lose its temperature control capability. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution of the present invention is: a high-precision electrically controlled thermostatic valve for preventing scale buildup, comprising a valve body, wherein the valve body is provided with a cold water chamber, a hot water chamber, and a mixing chamber disposed between the cold water chamber and the hot water chamber; the valve body is provided with a cold water inlet communicating with the cold water chamber, a hot water inlet communicating with the hot water chamber, and a mixing water outlet communicating with the mixing chamber.

[0006] The hot water chamber, mixing chamber, and cold water chamber are equipped with an axially reciprocating regulating valve shaft. One end of the regulating valve shaft is connected to a temperature regulating component. The middle part of the regulating valve shaft is provided with an inner sealing column section. The two ends of the inner sealing column section are provided with a cold water ring groove section and a hot water ring groove section corresponding to the cold water chamber and the hot water chamber, respectively.

[0007] A cold water opening sealing assembly is installed coaxially outside the regulating valve shaft inside the cold water chamber. The cold water opening sealing assembly is located between the cold water chamber and the mixing chamber. A hot water opening sealing assembly is installed coaxially outside the regulating valve shaft inside the hot water chamber. The hot water opening sealing assembly is located between the hot water chamber and the mixing chamber.

[0008] The inner diameter of the cold water opening sealing assembly is larger than the outer diameter of the cold water annular groove section, forming a cold water annular flow channel between them. The inner diameter of the cold water opening sealing assembly can slide relative to the inner sealing column section and can be interference-sealed to the outer circumference of the inner sealing column section. The inner diameter of the hot water opening sealing assembly is larger than the outer diameter of the hot water annular groove section, forming a hot water annular flow channel between them. The inner diameter of the hot water opening sealing assembly can slide relative to the inner sealing column section and can be interference-sealed to the outer circumference of the inner sealing column section.

[0009] As a preferred technical solution, the cold water opening sealing assembly includes a cold water metal ring and a cold water inner lip seal. The cold water metal ring is disposed close to the mixing chamber, and the cold water inner lip seal is disposed on the other side of the cold water metal ring, with the lip surface of the cold water inner lip seal facing the side of the cold water chamber.

[0010] The end of the inner sealing column section is provided with a cold water opening adjustment cone surface that mates with the cold water metal ring. The inner diameters of the cold water metal ring and the cold water inner lip seal are both larger than the outer diameter of the cold water annular groove section, and a cold water annular flow channel can be formed between the three. The inner diameter of the cold water metal ring and the outer diameter of the inner sealing column section are clearance-fitted and can slide relative to each other. The inner lip of the cold water inner lip seal can slide relative to the inner sealing column section and can be interference-sealed on the outer circumference of the inner sealing column section.

[0011] As a preferred technical solution, the hot water opening sealing assembly includes a hot water metal ring and a hot water inner lip seal. The hot water metal ring is located close to the mixing chamber, and the hot water inner lip seal is located on the other side of the hot water metal ring, with the lip surface of the hot water inner lip seal facing the hot water chamber.

[0012] The end of the inner sealing column section is provided with a hot water opening adjustment cone surface that cooperates with the hot water metal ring. The inner diameters of the hot water metal ring and the hot water inner lip seal are both larger than the outer diameter of the hot water annular groove section, and a hot water annular flow channel can be formed between the three. The inner diameter of the hot water metal ring and the outer diameter of the inner sealing column section are clearance-fitted and can slide relative to each other. The inner lip of the hot water inner lip seal can slide relative to the inner sealing column section and can be interference-sealed on the outer periphery of the inner sealing column section.

[0013] As a preferred technical solution, the two ends of the regulating valve shaft are respectively provided with a cold water external sealing column section and a hot water external sealing column section;

[0014] A cold water external seal is installed inside the cold water cavity. The cold water external seal is located on the outer end side of the cold water cavity and is sealed and installed on the outer periphery of the cold water external sealing column section.

[0015] A hot water external seal is installed inside the hot water cavity. The hot water external seal is located on the outer end side of the hot water cavity and is sealed and installed on the outer periphery of the hot water external sealing column section.

[0016] As a preferred technical solution, the cold water outer seal is a cold water outer lip seal, the lip surface of the cold water outer lip seal faces the inside of the cold water cavity, the inner lip of the cold water outer lip seal can slide relative to the cold water outer sealing column section, and can be interference-sealed on the outer periphery of the cold water outer sealing column section.

[0017] The hot water outer seal is a hot water outer lip seal, with the lip surface of the hot water outer lip seal facing the inside of the hot water cavity. The inner lip of the hot water outer lip seal can slide relative to the hot water outer sealing column section and can be interference-sealed on the outer periphery of the hot water outer sealing column section.

[0018] As a preferred technical solution, the cold water opening sealing component abuts against the cold water limiting shoulder of the cold water chamber, and the cold water opening sealing component and the cold water outer seal are positioned by a cold water positioning sleeve, and a cold water positioning retaining ring is provided on the outer side of the cold water outer seal.

[0019] The hot water opening sealing assembly abuts against the hot water limiting shoulder of the hot water chamber. The hot water opening sealing assembly and the hot water outer seal are positioned by a hot water positioning sleeve. A hot water positioning retaining ring is provided on the outer side of the hot water outer seal.

[0020] As a preferred technical solution, the regulating valve shaft reciprocates and has three opening and closing states:

[0021] The cold water annular groove section is clearance-fitted with the cold water metal ring and the cold water inner lip seal, while the hot water annular groove section is clearance-fitted with the hot water metal ring and the hot water inner lip seal.

[0022] The inner sealing column section is sealed to the cold water inner lip seal, while the hot water annular groove section is clearance-fitted to the hot water metal ring and the hot water inner lip seal.

[0023] The inner sealing column section is sealed to the hot water inner lip seal, while the cold water ring groove section is clearance-fitted to the cold water metal ring and the cold water inner lip seal.

[0024] As a preferred technical solution, the cold water opening adjustment cone gradually decreases to 45° from the inner sealing column section toward the cold water annular groove section; the cold water opening adjustment cone gradually decreases to 45° from the inner sealing column section toward the hot water annular groove section.

[0025] As a preferred technical solution, the regulating valve shaft is provided with a hot water external sealing column section at the outer end of the hot water annular groove section.

[0026] As a preferred technical solution, the regulating valve shaft reciprocates and has four opening and closing states:

[0027] The cold water annular groove section is clearance-fitted with the cold water metal ring and the cold water inner lip seal, while the hot water annular groove section is clearance-fitted with the hot water metal ring and the hot water inner lip seal.

[0028] The inner sealing column section is sealed to the cold water inner lip seal, while the hot water annular groove section is clearance-fitted to the hot water metal ring and the hot water inner lip seal.

[0029] The inner sealing column section is sealed to the hot water inner lip seal, while the cold water ring groove section is clearance-fitted to the cold water metal ring and the cold water inner lip seal.

[0030] The hot water outer sealing column section is sealed and fitted with the hot water inner lip seal, while the inner sealing column section is sealed and fitted with the cold water inner lip seal.

[0031] Due to the adoption of the above technical solution, the beneficial effects of the present invention are:

[0032] I. This solution for electronic thermostatic valves addresses the issue of scale affecting valve performance at its source through a combination of rigid and flexible cleaning methods:

[0033] (1) Forced initial cleaning: During the movement of the regulating valve shaft, the inner diameters of the cold water metal ring and the hot water metal ring are fitted with a small clearance to the inner sealing column. When the inner sealing column passes through the metal ring, the rigid inner circumferential surface of the metal ring acts like a scraper, forcibly scraping away the scale adhering to the surface of the inner sealing column, thus achieving efficient and thorough initial cleaning;

[0034] (2) Flexible secondary cleaning: After being cleaned by the metal ring, the inner sealing column continues to move and contact the inner lip seal. The flexible inner lip of the lip seal will scrape the surface of the column again to clean away any remaining traces of scale, ensuring that the surface of the column entering the sealing area is absolutely clean.

[0035] II. This electronic thermostatic valve solution features a design that separates the opening adjustment position from the final sealing position, and achieves true zero leakage through multiple safeguards:

[0036] (1) Clean sealing base surface: Since the inner sealing column has been cleaned twice before contacting the lip seal, there is no scale residue on the sealing mating surface, which ensures that the seal can fit seamlessly with the valve shaft surface, which is a prerequisite for achieving zero leakage.

[0037] (2) Pressure self-reinforcing seal: The lip of the inner lip seal (U-shaped lip seal ring) faces the medium pressure side. As the water pressure in the cavity increases, the elastic deformation of the lip increases, the radial clamping force automatically increases, and the contact length and tightness with the inner sealing column section increase, so as to achieve the effect of the greater the pressure, the tighter the seal.

[0038] (3) Long-lasting sealing life: The lip seal itself is not easy to scale and has flexible deformation characteristics. It is not easy to wear when the valve shaft moves back and forth, ensuring the sealing reliability for long-term use.

[0039] Third, in addition to the internal opening sealing assembly, the valve body is also equipped with cold water external lip seals and hot water external lip seals at both ends. They are always interference-fitted with the cold water external sealing column and hot water external sealing column at both ends of the regulating valve shaft, respectively, as a second line of defense, fundamentally eliminating the possibility of water leakage from both ends of the valve body.

[0040] In summary, this solution's electrically controlled thermostatic valve cleverly integrates two major functions—scale removal and dynamic zero-leakage sealing—through an innovative combination of metal ring and lip seal, thus solving the industry pain points of traditional thermostatic valves, such as easy scaling, poor sealing, and low adjustment accuracy. Attached Figure Description

[0041] The following figures are intended only to illustrate and explain the present invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Wherein:

[0042] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the regulating valve shaft and various sealing components in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 4 This is an enlarged view of the cold water opening sealing assembly according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 5 This is an enlarged view of the hot water opening sealing assembly according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the temperature control component according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 7 This is a state diagram of both hot and cold water being fully open according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 8 This is a state diagram of cold water off and hot water on in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 9 This is a state diagram of cold water on and hot water off according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 10 This is an enlarged view of the cold water in the first embodiment of the present invention with the water turned on;

[0052] Figure 11 This is an enlarged view of the initial state of cold water shut-off in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 12 This is an enlarged view of the cold water shut-off process in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 13 This is an enlarged view of the cold water sealed closed state in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the first embodiment of the present invention installed on a water heater;

[0056] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 16 This is a state diagram of both hot and cold water being fully open according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0058] Figure 17 This is a state diagram of cold water off and hot water on in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0059] Figure 18 This is a state diagram of hot water off and cold water on in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0060] Figure 19 This is a diagram showing the state of both hot and cold water being turned off in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0061] In the diagram: 100-Valve body; 101-Cold water chamber; 102-Hot water chamber; 103-Mixing water chamber; 104-Cold water inlet; 105-Cold water outlet; 106-Hot water inlet; 107-Mixing water outlet; 108-Mixing channel one; 109-Mixing channel two; 200-Regulating valve shaft; 201-Hot water outer sealing column section; 202-Hot water annular groove section; 203-Inner sealing column section; 204-Cold water annular groove section; 205-Cold water outer sealing column section; 300-Temperature regulating component; 301-Sub-housing; 302-Guide column; 303-Valve shaft slider; 30 4-Power motor; 400-Hot water external seal; 500-Hot water opening sealing assembly; 501-Hot water metal ring; 502-Hot water inner lip seal; 503-Hot water opening adjustment cone; 504-Hot water annular flow channel; 600-Cold water opening sealing assembly; 601-Cold water metal ring; 602-Cold water inner lip seal; 603-Cold water opening adjustment cone; 604-Cold water annular flow channel; 700-Cold water external seal; 801-Hot water positioning sleeve; 802-Hot water positioning retaining ring; 803-Cold water positioning sleeve; 804-Cold water positioning retaining ring. Detailed Implementation

[0062] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. In the following detailed description, only certain exemplary embodiments of the invention are described by way of illustration. Undoubtedly, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications can be made to the described embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the drawings and description are illustrative in nature and not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0063] Example 1:

[0064] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, a high-precision electrically controlled thermostatic valve for preventing scale buildup includes a valve body 100. The valve body 100 has a cold water chamber 101, a hot water chamber 102, and a mixing chamber 103 located between the cold water chamber 101 and the hot water chamber 102. The valve body 100 has a cold water inlet 104 and a cold water outlet 105 communicating with the cold water chamber 101, a hot water inlet 106 communicating with the hot water chamber 102, and a mixing water outlet 107 communicating with the mixing chamber 103. The cold water inlet 104 and the cold water outlet 105 are located on the same side and are both vertically arranged. The hot water inlet 106 and the mixing water outlet 107 are located on the same side and are both vertically arranged. The valve body 100 is provided with a first mixing channel 108 communicating with the middle of the mixing chamber 103 and a second mixing channel 109 connected to the mixing outlet. The first mixing channel 108 and the second mixing channel 109 are connected. When the electrically controlled thermostatic valve of this application is installed in a water heater, the cold water outlet 105 of the electrically controlled thermostatic valve is connected to the inlet of the water heater, and the hot water inlet 106 of the electrically controlled thermostatic valve is connected to the outlet of the water heater. See the installation diagram. Figure 14 .

[0065] See Figure 2 The hot water chamber 102, the mixing chamber 103, and the cold water chamber 101 are arranged sequentially, and a regulating valve shaft 200 is slidably mounted on each of the three chambers along the axial direction. A temperature regulating component 300 is connected to one end of the regulating valve shaft 200 near the cold water chamber 101. The temperature regulating component 300 controls the opening and closing of the hot and cold water by controlling the reciprocating linear movement of the regulating valve shaft 200.

[0066] See Figure 2 and Figure 3 The regulating valve shaft 200, extending from the hot water chamber 102 towards the cold water chamber 101, is sequentially provided with a hot water outer sealing column section 201, a hot water annular groove section 202, an inner sealing column section 203, a cold water annular groove section 204, and a cold water outer sealing column section 205. The inner sealing column section 203 is located in the middle of the regulating valve shaft 200, corresponding to the mixing chamber 103. The hot water annular groove section 202 and the cold water annular groove section 204 are located at both ends of the inner sealing column section 203, corresponding to the hot water chamber 102 and the cold water chamber 101, respectively. The inner sealing column section 203 serves as a control component for regulating and opening / closing the hot and cold water, and is also a key structure for achieving a seal. The cold water annular groove section 204 is an annular groove located between the inner sealing column section 203 and the cold water outer sealing section. Its outer diameter is smaller than that of the inner sealing column section 203. It is a structure that allows water to flow through when the cold water is turned on. The hot water annular groove section 202 is an annular groove located between the inner sealing column section 203 and the hot water outer sealing section. Its outer diameter is smaller than that of the inner sealing column section 203. It is a structure that allows water to flow through when the hot water is turned on.

[0067] See Figure 2 and Figure 3 A hot water outer seal 400, a hot water opening sealing assembly 500, a cold water opening sealing assembly 600, and a cold water outer seal 700 are sequentially and coaxially sleeved outside the regulating valve shaft 200 in the direction from the hot water chamber 102 toward the cold water chamber 101. The outer circumferential surface of each seal is sealed and installed on the inner surface of each chamber. The hot water outer seal 400 and the hot water opening sealing assembly 500 are respectively installed at the outer and inner ends of the hot water chamber 102, and the hot water opening sealing assembly 500 is located between the hot water chamber 102 and the mixing chamber 103. The cold water outer seal 700 and the cold water opening sealing assembly 600 are respectively installed at the outer and inner ends of the cold water chamber 101, and the cold water opening sealing assembly 600 is located between the cold water chamber 101 and the mixing chamber 103.

[0068] The hot water opening sealing assembly 500 abuts against the hot water limiting shoulder of the hot water chamber 102. The hot water opening sealing assembly 500 and the hot water outer seal 400 are positioned by a hot water positioning sleeve 801. A hot water positioning retaining ring 802 is provided on the outer side of the hot water outer seal 400. The cold water opening sealing assembly 600 abuts against the cold water limiting shoulder of the cold water chamber 101. The cold water opening sealing assembly 600 and the cold water outer seal 700 are positioned by a cold water positioning sleeve 803. A cold water positioning retaining ring 804 is provided on the outer side of the cold water outer seal 700. The surface of the hot water positioning sleeve 801 has a hot water passage hole to facilitate the passage of hot water, and the surface of the cold water positioning sleeve 803 has a cold water passage hole to facilitate the passage of cold water. Both the hot water positioning retaining ring 802 and the cold water positioning retaining ring 804 are retaining rings, positioned by being snapped into the annular groove of the valve body 100.

[0069] The inner diameter of the hot water opening sealing assembly 500 is larger than the outer diameter of the hot water annular groove section 202, forming a hot water annular flow channel between them to facilitate the passage of hot water. The inner diameter of the hot water opening sealing assembly 500 can slide relative to the inner sealing column section 203 and can be interference-sealed to the outer circumference of the inner sealing column section 203. The inner diameter of the cold water opening sealing assembly 600 is larger than the outer diameter of the cold water annular groove section 204, forming a cold water annular flow channel between them. The inner diameter of the cold water opening sealing assembly 600 can slide relative to the inner sealing column section 203 and can be interference-sealed to the outer circumference of the inner sealing column section 203. The hot water opening sealing assembly 500 and the cold water opening sealing assembly 600 are fixedly installed in the hot water chamber 102 and the cold water chamber 101, respectively. However, since the regulating valve shaft 200 can reciprocate, there is a dynamic relationship between the hot water opening sealing assembly 500, the cold water opening sealing assembly 600, and the regulating valve shaft 200. The hot water opening sealing component 500, in conjunction with the inner sealing column section 203 and the hot water annular groove section 202, is used to adjust and close the hot water opening. Similarly, the cold water opening sealing component 600, in conjunction with the inner sealing column section 203 and the cold water annular groove section 204, is used to adjust and close the cold water opening. During the dynamic movement of the inner sealing column section 203, the hot water and cold water opening sealing components 500 and 600 can clean scale from the inner sealing column section 203, achieving a scale-free environment. They also provide an interference seal with the inner sealing column section 203, achieving zero leakage. Therefore, the hot water and cold water opening sealing components 500 and 600 are key components for achieving scale-free operation and high-precision sealing.

[0070] The hot water external seal 400 is sealed and installed on the outer periphery of the hot water external sealing column 201. The hot water external seal 400 and the hot water external sealing column 201 are always interference-fitted to achieve a seal on the outer end of the hot water chamber 102. The cold water external seal 700 is sealed and installed on the outer periphery of the cold water external sealing column 205. The cold water external seal 700 and the cold water external sealing column 205 are always interference-fitted to achieve a seal on the outer end of the cold water chamber 101. The hot water external seal 400 and the cold water external seal 700 together achieve the purpose of preventing leakage of the thermostatic valve. Their function is different from that of the cold water opening sealing assembly 600 and the hot water opening sealing assembly 500. The position and number of the hot water external seal 400 and the cold water external seal 700 can be selected according to the length and position of the valve body. That is, in order to ensure the prevention of leakage, multiple external seals can be added or combined in multiple positions to ensure the external seal.

[0071] See Figure 4The cold water opening sealing assembly 600 includes a cold water metal ring 601 and a cold water inner lip seal 602. The cold water metal ring 601 is disposed near the mixing chamber 103 and abuts against the shoulder. The cold water inner lip seal 602 is disposed on the other side of the cold water metal ring 601 (near the cold water chamber 101), and the lip surface of the cold water inner lip seal 602 faces the side of the cold water chamber 101. The back of the cold water inner lip seal 602 abuts against the cold water metal ring 601, which can support the back of the cold water inner lip seal 602. The lip surface of the cold water inner lip seal 602 is provided with a retaining ring, which plays a supporting role and is used to contact and position with the cold water positioning sleeve 803. The cold water metal ring 601 is a key structure for adjusting the opening and cleaning scale, and can be made of copper or stainless steel. The cold water inner lip seal 602 is a key structure for interference sealing and cleaning scale, and can be made of U-shaped lip seal, such as a USH sealing ring.

[0072] The end of the inner sealing column section 203 is provided with a cold water opening adjustment cone surface 603. The end face of the cold water metal ring 601 near the mixing chamber 103 is used to mate with the cold water opening adjustment cone surface 603. The inner diameter of the cold water metal ring 601 has no cone surface, and the distance between its end and the cold water opening adjustment cone surface 603 is the cold water opening value. See [link / reference] Figure 4 At position L1, when the regulating valve shaft 200 moves toward the hot water chamber 102, the opening value L1 gradually increases; when the regulating valve shaft 200 moves toward the cold water chamber 101, the opening value L1 gradually decreases.

[0073] The inner diameters of the cold water metal ring 601 and the cold water inner lip seal 602 are both larger than the outer diameter of the cold water annular groove section 204, and a cold water annular flow channel 604 can be formed between the three. The inner diameter of the cold water metal ring 601 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the inner sealing column section 203. The two are fitted with a small gap. Due to the existence of the gap, the inner sealing column section 203 can slide relative to the cold water metal ring 601. At the same time, due to the small gap, the cold water metal ring 601 can remove the scale on the surface of the inner sealing column section 203 to the greatest extent, ensuring a good scale removal effect. The inner lip of the cold water inner lip seal 602 can slide relative to the inner sealing column 203 and can be interference-sealed on the outer periphery of the inner sealing column 203. The inner lip of the cold water inner lip seal 602 and the inner sealing column 203 are in an interference fit relationship. At the same time, since the cold water inner lip seal 602 has deformation characteristics, it does not affect the sliding of the inner sealing column 203.

[0074] The hot water opening sealing assembly 500 has a structure that is basically the same as the cold water opening sealing assembly 600, and they are symmetrical from left to right. See also Figure 5 The hot water opening sealing assembly 500 includes a hot water metal ring 501 and a hot water inner lip seal 502. The hot water metal ring 501 is located near the mixing chamber 103 and abuts against the shoulder. The hot water inner lip seal 502 is located on the other side of the hot water metal ring 501 (near the hot water chamber 102), with the lip surface of the hot water inner lip seal 502 facing the hot water chamber 102. The back of the hot water inner lip seal 502 abuts against the hot water metal ring 501, providing support for the back of the hot water inner lip seal 502. The lip surface of the hot water inner lip seal 502 is provided with a retaining ring, which serves as a support and is used for contact and positioning with the hot water positioning sleeve 801. The hot water metal ring 501 is a key structure for adjusting the opening and cleaning scale, and can be made of copper or stainless steel. The hot water inner lip seal 502 is a key structure for interference sealing and cleaning scale, and can be made of U-shaped lip seal, such as a USH sealing ring.

[0075] The end of the inner sealing column section 203 is provided with a hot water opening adjustment cone surface 503. The end face of the hot water metal ring 501 near the mixing chamber 103 is used to cooperate with the hot water opening adjustment cone surface 503. The inner diameter of the hot water metal ring 501 has no cone surface, and the distance between its end and the hot water opening adjustment cone surface 503 is the hot water opening value. See [reference needed]. Figure 5 At position L2, when the regulating valve shaft 200 moves toward the cold water chamber 101, the opening value L2 gradually increases; when the regulating valve shaft 200 moves toward the hot water chamber 102, the opening value L2 gradually decreases.

[0076] The inner diameters of the hot water metal ring 501 and the hot water inner lip seal 502 are both larger than the outer diameter of the hot water annular groove section 202, and a hot water annular flow channel 504 can be formed between them. The inner diameter of the hot water metal ring 501 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the inner sealing column section 203, and the two are fitted with a small clearance. Due to the existence of the clearance, the inner sealing column section 203 can slide relative to the hot water metal ring 501. At the same time, due to the small clearance, the hot water metal ring 501 can remove the scale on the surface of the inner sealing column section 203 to the greatest extent, ensuring a good scale removal effect. The inner lip of the hot water inner lip seal 502 can slide relative to the inner sealing column section 203 and can be interference-sealed on the outer circumference of the inner sealing column section 203. The inner lip of the hot water inner lip seal 502 and the inner sealing column section 203 are in an interference fit relationship. At the same time, since the hot water inner lip seal 502 has deformable characteristics, it does not affect the sliding of the inner sealing column section 203.

[0077] See Figure 6 The temperature control assembly 300 includes a sub-housing 301 connected to the valve body 100. A valve shaft slider 303 is reciprocally slidable within the sub-housing 301 via a guide post 302. One side of the valve shaft slider 303 is fixedly connected to the regulating valve shaft 200, and the other side is connected to the output end of a power motor 304. The body of the power motor 304 is fixed to the sub-housing 301. When the power motor 304 moves, it causes the valve shaft slider 303 to reciprocate, thereby driving the regulating valve shaft 200 to reciprocate.

[0078] See Figure 2 , Figures 7 to 9 The cold water outer seal 700 is a cold water outer lip seal. During installation, the cold water outer lip seal has supporting retaining rings on both sides. The lip surface of the cold water outer lip seal faces the inside of the cold water cavity 101. The inner lip of the cold water outer lip seal can slide relative to the cold water outer sealing column 205 and can be interference-sealed against the outer periphery of the cold water outer sealing column 205. The hot water outer seal 400 is a hot water outer lip seal. During installation, the hot water outer lip seal has supporting retaining rings on both sides. The lip surface of the hot water outer lip seal faces the inside of the hot water cavity 102. The inner lip of the hot water outer lip seal can slide relative to the hot water outer sealing column 201 and can be interference-sealed against the outer periphery of the hot water outer sealing column 201. Both the cold water and hot water outer lip seals use U-shaped lip sealing rings. This type of sealing ring can simultaneously achieve movement and interference sealing, and has a long service life.

[0079] In this embodiment, the regulating valve shaft 200 reciprocates and has three opening and closing states:

[0080] Both hot and cold water are open: The cold water annular groove section 204 is clearance-fitted with the cold water metal ring 601 and the cold water inner lip seal 602, while the hot water annular groove section 202 is clearance-fitted with the hot water metal ring 501 and the hot water inner lip seal 502. At this time, both the cold water annular flow channel 604 and the hot water annular flow channel 504 are open. See the status section below. Figure 7 When the regulating valve shaft 200 moves slightly toward the cold water chamber 101, the hot water opening increases and the cold water opening decreases; when the regulating valve shaft 200 moves slightly toward the hot water chamber 102, the hot water opening decreases and the cold water opening increases.

[0081] Cold water off, hot water on: The inner sealing column section 203 is sealed with the cold water inner lip seal 602, while the hot water annular groove section 202 is clearance-fitted with the hot water metal ring 501 and the hot water inner lip seal 502. At this time, the cold water annular flow channel 604 is closed and the hot water annular flow channel 504 is open. See the status diagram. Figure 8 ;

[0082] Hot water off, cold water on: The inner sealing column section 203 is sealed to the hot water inner lip seal 502, while the cold water annular groove section 204 is clearance-fitted with the cold water metal ring 601 and the cold water inner lip seal 602. At this time, the hot water annular flow channel 504 is closed and the cold water annular flow channel 604 is open. See the status diagram. Figure 9 .

[0083] The cold water opening adjustment cone 603 gradually decreases to 45° from the inner sealing column section 203 toward the cold water annular groove section 204; the cold water opening adjustment cone 603 gradually decreases to 45° from the inner sealing column section 203 toward the hot water annular groove section 202.

[0084] The working principle of the cold water opening sealing assembly 600 is as follows:

[0085] See Figure 10 In this state, the cold water is turned on, enabling hot and cold water regulation. When the regulating valve shaft 200 moves toward the cold water chamber 101, the cold water opening gradually decreases. When the outer surface of the inner sealing column section 203 moves to the inner surface of the cold water metal ring 601, the state is as follows: Figure 11 At the position shown, the cold water opening is closed, but due to a small gap between the two, it is not completely sealed. As the regulating valve shaft 200 continues to move, the inner circumferential end of the cold water metal ring 601 will scrape the outer surface of the inner sealing column section 203. (See...) Figure 12 middle At the location indicated by the arrow, the inner sealing column section 203 undergoes its first scale removal. As the regulating valve shaft 200 continues to move, the cleaned inner sealing column section 203 continues to contact the cold water inner lip seal 602, and the inner lip end of the cold water inner lip seal 602 also scrapes the outer surface of the inner sealing column section 203. (See...) Figure 13 middle At the location indicated by the arrow, the inner sealing column 203 is cleaned for the second time to remove scale until the inner sealing column 203 is in complete contact with the inner lip of the cold water inner lip seal 602. The inner lip of the cold water inner lip seal 602 deforms under the water pressure of the cold water chamber 101 and tightly presses against the outer surface of the inner sealing column 203, achieving a 100% complete seal and zero leakage.

[0086] In summary, the main component responsible for scale removal is the cold water metal ring 601. Utilizing its inherent rigidity, when the inner sealing column 203 moves towards the cold water chamber 101 and passes through the inner circumferential surface of the cold water metal ring 601, the inner circumferential surface of the cold water metal ring 601 scrapes against the outer surface of the inner sealing column 203, removing the scale and achieving an initial forced cleaning effect. The cold water inner lip seal 602 serves as an auxiliary structure for scale removal. Utilizing the flexible deformation characteristics of its own structure, the inner sealing column 203 is in an interference fit relationship with the inner sealing column 203. When the outer surface of the inner sealing column 203 comes into contact with the cold water inner lip seal 602, the inner lip will scrape its surface again, achieving a second flexible cleaning effect. This can also clean the small amount of scale adhering to the surface of the inner sealing column 203. After cleaning, the inner sealing column 203 and the cold water inner lip seal 602 achieve zero leakage sealing through interference fit. The cleaned scale can be washed away by the subsequent water flow.

[0087] Achieving zero-leakage sealing here is accomplished through multiple aspects: First, the cold water inner lip seal 602 is a type of lip seal with inherent sealing characteristics. The lip surface (pressure surface) of the lip seal faces the cold water cavity 101. Due to the deformable nature of the inner lip of the lip seal, it does not affect the movement of the inner sealing column 203. As the inner sealing column 203 moves continuously, the pressure in the cold water cavity 101 increases, the elastic deformation of the lip increases, the radial clamping force of the U-ring automatically increases, and the contact length with the inner sealing column 203 continuously increases until the entire axial length of the U-ring is in complete contact with the sealing surface, thereby ensuring good sealing performance under high pressure. Second, the deformation of the lip seal is affected by pressure changes. Even if the inner sealing column 203 reciprocates and causes the lip seal to deform, the deformation of the lip seal is still achieved. The mating surfaces between the components are no longer tight, but the lip seal deforms under pressure, still ensuring a leak-free seal. Higher pressure results in a tighter seal, thus extending the service life of the lip seal. Third, the lip seal itself is deformable, preventing scale buildup. Therefore, there is no scale on the inner lip surface where the lip seal and the inner sealing column 203 seal, achieving a scale-free effect. Fourth, the inner sealing column 203 is the main structure that cooperates with the cold water inner lip seal 602 to achieve a seal. Before sealing, the outer surface of the inner sealing column 203 and the cold water inner lip seal 602 has undergone two scale removal processes. Therefore, the surface of the inner sealing column 203 at the sealing position is free of scale, ensuring a seamless fit with the cold water inner lip seal 602, thus achieving a zero-leakage seal. If there is uncleaned scale on the surface of the inner sealing column 203 before sealing, even with a lip seal, a seamless fit cannot be achieved, and a zero-leakage seal cannot be obtained. Without the cold water metal ring 601, forced cleaning cannot be achieved. Relying solely on the lip seal for scale removal will damage the lip seal and affect its service life. Furthermore, without the cold water metal ring 601, the cold water opening cannot be stably controlled. Although the distance between the cold water opening adjustment cone 603 and the cold water inner lip seal 602 can control the cold water opening, the inner lip seal 602 itself has deformable characteristics, and its deformation is affected by pressure. When the inner sealing column 203 changes from a completely sealed state to an open state, the pressure is suddenly released, causing the inner lip seal 602 to deform significantly. This results in a sudden increase in the cold water opening instead of a linear change. This sudden change leads to a surge in cold water flow, resulting in a poor user experience. Therefore, the cold water metal ring 601 is used in conjunction with the cold water inner lip seal 602. By utilizing the structural characteristics of the lip seal and the scraping characteristics when the valve shaft moves, scale-free and zero-leakage can be achieved simultaneously, realizing a scale-free and high-precision electrically controlled thermostatic valve.

[0088] In the prior art, the position of opening adjustment and the position of sealing are in the same place, while in this application, the position of opening adjustment and the position of sealing are in two places. By changing the sealing position, and utilizing the structural characteristics of the lip seal and the scraping characteristics when the valve shaft moves, a complete seal can be achieved.

[0089] Since the cold water opening sealing component 600 and the hot water opening sealing component 500 have completely similar structures and the same sealing principle, they will not be described again.

[0090] Example 2:

[0091] This embodiment is basically the same as the first embodiment in terms of structure and working principle. The main difference is that the length of the regulating valve shaft 200 is increased based on the structure of the first embodiment, so that this structure has the function of simultaneously shutting off hot and cold water.

[0092] The regulating valve shaft 200 reciprocates and has four opening and closing states, the first three of which are exactly the same as in Embodiment 1:

[0093] Both hot and cold water are open: The cold water annular groove section 204 is clearance-fitted with the cold water metal ring 601 and the cold water inner lip seal 602, while the hot water annular groove section 202 is clearance-fitted with the hot water metal ring 501 and the hot water inner lip seal 502. At this time, both the cold water annular flow channel 604 and the hot water annular flow channel 504 are open. See [reference needed] Figure 16 ;

[0094] Cold water off, hot water on: The inner sealing column section 203 is sealed to the cold water inner lip seal 602, while the hot water annular groove section 202 is clearance-fitted to the hot water metal ring 501 and the hot water inner lip seal 502. At this time, the cold water annular flow channel 604 is closed and the hot water annular flow channel 504 is open. See [link / reference] Figure 17 ;

[0095] Hot water off, cold water on: The inner sealing column section 203 is sealed to the hot water inner lip seal 502, while the cold water annular groove section 204 is clearance-fitted with the cold water metal ring 601 and the cold water inner lip seal 602. At this time, the hot water annular flow channel 504 is closed and the cold water annular flow channel 604 is open. See [link / reference] Figure 18 ;

[0096] Both hot and cold water are shut off: The hot water outer sealing column 201 is sealed to the hot water inner lip seal 502, while the inner sealing column 203 is sealed to the cold water inner lip seal 602. See the attached diagram for the desired state. Figure 19 .

[0097] Based on Example 1, this embodiment can achieve the shut-off of both hot and cold water. In this case, the electronic thermostatic valve can be used independently as a stand-alone thermostatic valve structure.

[0098] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms indicating orientation or positional relationship in this invention are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this invention.

[0099] The foregoing has shown and described the basic principles, main features, and advantages of the present invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. The embodiments and descriptions in the specification are merely illustrative of the principles of the invention. Various changes and modifications can be made to the invention without departing from its spirit and scope, and all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of the present invention as claimed. The scope of protection of this invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A high-precision electrically controlled thermostatic valve for preventing scale buildup, comprising a valve body, wherein the valve body is provided with a cold water chamber, a hot water chamber, and a mixing chamber disposed between the cold water chamber and the hot water chamber; the valve body is provided with a cold water inlet communicating with the cold water chamber, a hot water inlet communicating with the hot water chamber, and a mixing outlet communicating with the mixing chamber, characterized in that, The hot water chamber, mixing chamber, and cold water chamber are equipped with an axially reciprocating regulating valve shaft. One end of the regulating valve shaft is connected to a temperature regulating component. The middle part of the regulating valve shaft is provided with an inner sealing column section. The two ends of the inner sealing column section are provided with a cold water ring groove section and a hot water ring groove section corresponding to the cold water chamber and the hot water chamber, respectively. A cold water opening sealing assembly is installed coaxially outside the regulating valve shaft inside the cold water chamber. The cold water opening sealing assembly is located between the cold water chamber and the mixing chamber. A hot water opening sealing assembly is installed coaxially outside the regulating valve shaft inside the hot water chamber. The hot water opening sealing assembly is located between the hot water chamber and the mixing chamber. The inner diameter of the cold water opening sealing assembly is larger than the outer diameter of the cold water annular groove section, forming a cold water annular flow channel between them. The inner diameter of the cold water opening sealing assembly can slide relative to the inner sealing column section and can be interference-sealed to the outer circumference of the inner sealing column section. The cold water opening sealing assembly includes a cold water metal ring and a cold water inner lip seal. The cold water metal ring is located close to the mixing chamber, and the cold water inner lip seal is located on the other side of the cold water metal ring, with its lip facing the side of the cold water chamber. The inner diameter of the cold water metal ring and the outer diameter of the inner sealing column section are clearance-fitted and can slide relative to each other. The inner lip of the cold water inner lip seal can slide relative to the inner sealing column section and can be interference-sealed to the outer circumference of the inner sealing column section. The inner diameter of the hot water opening sealing assembly is larger than the outer diameter of the hot water annular groove section, forming a hot water annular flow channel between them. The inner diameter of the hot water opening sealing assembly can slide relative to the inner sealing column section and can be interference-sealed to the outer circumference of the inner sealing column section. The hot water opening sealing assembly includes a hot water metal ring and a hot water inner lip seal. The hot water metal ring is located close to the mixing chamber, and the hot water inner lip seal is located on the other side of the hot water metal ring, with its lip facing the side of the hot water chamber. The inner diameter of the hot water metal ring and the outer diameter of the inner sealing column section are clearance-fitted and can slide relative to each other. The inner lip of the hot water inner lip seal can slide relative to the inner sealing column section and can be interference-sealed to the outer circumference of the inner sealing column section. As the inner sealing column passes through the cold water metal ring and the hot water metal ring, the rigid inner circumferential surfaces of the cold water metal ring and the hot water metal ring scrape away the scale adhering to the surface of the inner sealing column. The inner sealing column continues to move and comes into contact with the cold water inner lip seal and the hot water inner lip seal. The cold water inner lip seal and the hot water inner lip seal will scrape the surface of the inner sealing column again to clean away the remaining trace amounts of scale.

2. The anti-scaling high-precision electrically controlled thermostatic valve as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The end of the inner sealing column section is provided with a cold water opening adjustment cone surface that cooperates with the cold water metal ring. The inner diameters of the cold water metal ring and the cold water inner lip seal are both larger than the outer diameter of the cold water ring groove section, and a cold water annular flow channel can be formed between the three.

3. The anti-scaling high-precision electrically controlled thermostatic valve as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The end of the inner sealing column section is provided with a hot water opening adjustment cone surface that cooperates with the hot water metal ring. The inner diameter of the hot water metal ring and the hot water inner lip seal are both larger than the outer diameter of the hot water annular groove section, and a hot water annular flow channel can be formed between the three.

4. The anti-scaling high-precision electrically controlled thermostatic valve as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The regulating valve shaft is provided with a cold water external sealing column section and a hot water external sealing column section at both ends; A cold water external seal is installed inside the cold water cavity. The cold water external seal is located on the outer end side of the cold water cavity and is sealed and installed on the outer periphery of the cold water external sealing column section. A hot water external seal is installed inside the hot water cavity. The hot water external seal is located on the outer end side of the hot water cavity and is sealed and installed on the outer periphery of the hot water external sealing column section.

5. A high-precision electrically controlled thermostatic valve for preventing scale buildup as described in claim 4, characterized in that: The cold water external seal is a cold water external lip seal, with the lip surface of the cold water external lip seal facing the inside of the cold water cavity. The inner lip of the cold water external lip seal can slide relative to the cold water external sealing column section and can be interference-sealed on the outer periphery of the cold water external sealing column section. The hot water outer seal is a hot water outer lip seal, with the lip surface of the hot water outer lip seal facing the inside of the hot water cavity. The inner lip of the hot water outer lip seal can slide relative to the hot water outer sealing column section and can be interference-sealed on the outer periphery of the hot water outer sealing column section.

6. A high-precision electrically controlled thermostatic valve for preventing scale buildup as described in claim 4, characterized in that: The cold water opening sealing assembly abuts against the cold water limiting shoulder of the cold water chamber. The cold water opening sealing assembly and the cold water outer seal are positioned by a cold water positioning sleeve. A cold water positioning retaining ring is provided on the outer side of the cold water outer seal. The hot water opening sealing assembly abuts against the hot water limiting shoulder of the hot water chamber. The hot water opening sealing assembly and the hot water outer seal are positioned by a hot water positioning sleeve. A hot water positioning retaining ring is provided on the outer side of the hot water outer seal.

7. A high-precision electrically controlled thermostatic valve for preventing scale buildup as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The regulating valve shaft reciprocates and has three opening and closing states: The cold water annular groove section is clearance-fitted with the cold water metal ring and the cold water inner lip seal, while the hot water annular groove section is clearance-fitted with the hot water metal ring and the hot water inner lip seal. The inner sealing column section is sealed to the cold water inner lip seal, while the hot water annular groove section is clearance-fitted to the hot water metal ring and the hot water inner lip seal. The inner sealing column section is sealed to the hot water inner lip seal, while the cold water ring groove section is clearance-fitted to the cold water metal ring and the cold water inner lip seal.

8. A high-precision electrically controlled thermostatic valve for preventing scale buildup as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The cold water opening adjustment cone gradually decreases to 45° from the inner sealing column section toward the cold water annular groove section; the cold water opening adjustment cone gradually decreases to 45° from the inner sealing column section toward the hot water annular groove section.

9. A high-precision electrically controlled thermostatic valve for preventing scale buildup as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The regulating valve shaft is located at the outer end of the hot water annular groove section and is provided with a hot water external sealing column section.

10. A high-precision electrically controlled thermostatic valve for preventing scale buildup as described in claim 9, characterized in that: The regulating valve shaft reciprocates and has four opening and closing states: The cold water annular groove section is clearance-fitted with the cold water metal ring and the cold water inner lip seal, while the hot water annular groove section is clearance-fitted with the hot water metal ring and the hot water inner lip seal. The inner sealing column section is sealed to the cold water inner lip seal, while the hot water annular groove section is clearance-fitted to the hot water metal ring and the hot water inner lip seal. The inner sealing column section is sealed to the hot water inner lip seal, while the cold water ring groove section is clearance-fitted to the cold water metal ring and the cold water inner lip seal. The hot water outer sealing column section is sealed and fitted with the hot water inner lip seal, while the inner sealing column section is sealed and fitted with the cold water inner lip seal.

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