Water outlet device and zero-cooling water system

Abstract

This disclosure provides a water outlet device and a zero-cold-water system. The water outlet device includes: a first inlet (11); a second inlet (12); an outlet (13); and a first three-way valve (14). The first inlet port (141) of the first three-way valve is connected to the first inlet via a first pipeline (L1), the second inlet port (142) of the first three-way valve is connected to the second inlet via a second pipeline (L2), and the outlet port (143) of the first three-way valve is connected to a return port (16) via a third pipeline (L3). The return port (16) is located on the second pipeline (L2), and the outlet (13) is located on the third pipeline (L3). A first check valve (15) is provided between the return port (16) and the outlet (13) to guide water to the return port (16). The first check valve is configured to restrict the water flow in the third pipeline to flow only from the outlet port (143) of the first three-way valve (14) to the return port (16). By ensuring that warm water is present at the outlet, "warm water can be dispensed instantly".

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of sanitary ware technology, and more particularly to a water outlet device and a zero-cold-water system. Background Technology

[0002] In existing hot water usage scenarios, there is a distance and a pipe between the hot water supply source and the water outlet device (faucet or shower head, etc.). When using hot water for the first time, the cold water in the pipe between the water outlet device and the hot water supply source needs to be drained before hot water will flow from the outlet device.

[0003] To speed up the arrival of hot water, users often turn the water outlet fully to the hot water side. However, the water temperature on the hot water side is often higher than the bathing temperature. For example, if the bathing temperature is 35 degrees Celsius, the water temperature on the hot water side is 45 degrees Celsius or higher. When users feel that the hot water has arrived, after bathing for a while, the water temperature will be too hot and they will need to mix in cold water. It takes multiple adjustments to get the water temperature to a suitable level.

[0004] The process of using hot water described above wastes precious clean fresh water resources, increases washing time, and the repeated adjustment of water temperature also reduces the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure provides a water outlet device and a zero-cold-water system to solve the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0006] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a water outlet device is provided, comprising: First water inlet 11; Second water inlet 12; Outlet 13; and, A first three-way valve 14 has a first inlet port 141 connected to a first water inlet via a first pipeline L1, a second inlet port 142 connected to a second water inlet via a second pipeline L2, and an outlet port 143 connected to a return water port 16 via a third pipeline L3. The return water port 16 is located on the second pipeline L2. The water outlet 13 is located on the third pipeline L3, and, A first one-way valve 15 is provided between the return port 16 and the outlet 13, which leads to the return port 16. The first one-way valve is configured to restrict the water flow in the third pipeline L3 to flow only from the outlet port 143 of the first three-way valve 14 to the return port 16.

[0007] In one embodiment, the first three-way valve 14 includes a first thermostatic valve; The first thermostatic valve is configured to mix hot water and cold water to form warm water at a first preset temperature; The first thermostatic valve is also configured to be in a closed state when the temperature of the warm water exceeds the first preset temperature and when the difference between the temperature of the warm water and the first preset temperature exceeds the first temperature change amount.

[0008] In one embodiment, the first three-way valve 14 includes a mixing valve configured to mix hot and cold water into warm water.

[0009] In one embodiment, the water outlet device further includes a second one-way valve 17; the second one-way valve 17 is disposed on the first pipeline L1 or on the pipeline before the first water inlet 11; the second one-way valve 17 is configured to restrict hot water to flow only from the first water inlet 11 to the first inlet port of the first three-way valve 14.

[0010] In one embodiment, the water outlet device further includes: a second three-way valve 18; the second three-way valve 18 is disposed on the third pipeline L3 and between the water outlet 13 and the return water outlet 16; The second three-way valve 18 is configured to be closed when the temperature of the warm water exceeds the second preset temperature and when the difference between the temperature of the warm water and the second preset temperature exceeds the second temperature change.

[0011] In one embodiment, the second three-way valve 18 includes a second thermostatic valve; The second thermostatic valve is configured to be closed when the temperature of the warm water exceeds the second preset temperature and when the difference between the temperature of the warm water and the second preset temperature exceeds the second temperature change amount.

[0012] In one embodiment, the second three-way valve 18 includes a temperature shut-off valve; The temperature shut-off valve is configured to be in a closed state when the temperature of the warm water exceeds the second preset temperature and when the difference between the temperature of the warm water and the second preset temperature exceeds the second temperature change amount.

[0013] In one embodiment, the second three-way valve 18 includes a solenoid valve and a temperature detection module; the temperature detection module is electrically connected to the solenoid valve. The temperature detection module is configured to detect the temperature of the warm water in the third pipeline L3, and to generate a control signal when the temperature of the warm water exceeds the second preset temperature and the difference between the temperature of the warm water and the second preset temperature exceeds the second temperature change. The solenoid valve is configured to be in a closed state upon receiving the control signal.

[0014] In one embodiment, the water outlet device includes a temperature detection module and a display module 19; the temperature detection module is configured to detect the temperature value of the water in the third pipeline L3 and send it to the display module 19; The display module 19 is configured to display the temperature value.

[0015] In one embodiment, the water outlet device includes a communication module 20; the communication module 20 is configured to upload the temperature value of the water in the third pipeline L3 to a smart terminal or the cloud.

[0016] In one embodiment, the water outlet device includes: a hydroelectric power generation module 21; the hydroelectric power generation module 21 is disposed between the first three-way valve 14 and the water outlet 13; the hydroelectric power generation module 21 is configured to generate electricity under the drive of the water flow in the third pipeline L3, and provide the electricity to the display module 19 and / or the communication module 20.

[0017] In one embodiment, the water outlet device further includes: a third one-way valve 22; the third one-way valve 22 is disposed between the first three-way valve 14 and the return port 16; The third one-way valve 22 is configured to restrict water flow to flow only from the second inlet to the second inlet of the first three-way valve 14.

[0018] In one embodiment, the water outlet device is a shower head or a faucet.

[0019] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a zero-cold-water system is provided, including a water heater 30, a circulating water pump 40, and a water outlet device 10 as described in any of the first aspects; The water heater 30 is configured to heat water and store hot water. The circulating water pump 40 is configured to circulate hot water from the water heater 30 into the hot water pipe and to circulate cold water from the hot water pipe into the water heater. The water outlet device 10 is configured to mix hot and cold water into warm water and store it within its third pipeline L3.

[0020] In one embodiment, the circulating water pump 40 includes a control device 41 and a switching device 42; The switching device 42 is configured to generate a touch signal after sensing the user's touch operation, and send the touch signal to the control device 41; The controller 41 is configured to control the circulating water pump 40 to operate in response to the touch signal.

[0021] In one embodiment, the switching device 42 includes at least one of the following: an infrared sensor, a door magnetic sensor, a smart lamp, a human body sensor, and a door lock sensor.

[0022] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this disclosure may include the following beneficial effects: The water outlet device provided in this embodiment includes: a first inlet 11; a second inlet 12; an outlet 13; and a first three-way valve 14. The first inlet port 141 of the first three-way valve is connected to the first inlet via a first pipeline L1, the second inlet port 142 of the first three-way valve is connected to the second inlet via a second pipeline L2, and the outlet port 143 of the first three-way valve is connected to a return port 16 via a third pipeline L3. The return port 16 is located on the second pipeline L2, the outlet 13 is located on the third pipeline L3, and a first one-way valve 15 is provided between the return port 16 and the outlet 13 to guide the return port 16. The first one-way valve is configured to restrict the water flow in the third pipeline L3 to flow only from the outlet port 143 of the first three-way valve 14 to the return port 16. Thus, in this embodiment, the installation of a first one-way valve 15 in the third pipe L3 ensures that warm water flows to the cold water pipe, preventing cold water from mixing with warm water. Furthermore, the installation of a return port 16 on the second pipe L2 allows warm water from the third pipe L3 to flow back to the second pipe L2, ensuring that warm water is present at the outlet 13. This achieves the effect of "instant warm water" when the outlet is open, improving the hot water user experience.

[0023] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a water outlet device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of another water outlet device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 3 This is a block diagram of another water outlet device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 4 This is a block diagram of another water outlet device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a water outlet device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the main body of a water outlet device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the main body of another water outlet device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numerals in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this disclosure. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses consistent with some aspects of this disclosure as detailed in the appended claims.

[0032] To solve the above technical problems, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 1 This disclosure provides a water outlet device 10, which can be a faucet or a shower head, or a device including a faucet and / or a shower head. For ease of description, subsequent embodiments will use a faucet as an example for the water outlet device 10. Furthermore, the terms "hot water," "cold water," and "warm water" in this disclosure are relative concepts. For example, the temperature range of hot water can be [50, 100] degrees Celsius, the temperature range of cold water can be [0, 25] degrees Celsius, and the temperature range of warm water can be [30, 50] degrees Celsius. Those skilled in the art should understand that the temperature ranges corresponding to the above three terms can be adjusted according to specific application scenarios, and the above examples do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions of this disclosure.

[0033] See also Figure 1 The water outlet device 10 includes a first water inlet 11, a second water inlet 12, a water outlet 13, a first one-way valve 15, and a first three-way valve 14. The first three-way valve 14 includes a first inlet port 141, a second inlet port 142, and an outlet port 143. The first inlet port 141 of the first three-way valve 14 is connected to the first water inlet 11 via the first pipeline L1. The second inlet port 142 of the first three-way valve 14 is connected to the second water inlet 12 via the second pipeline L2. The outlet port 143 of the first three-way valve 14 is connected to the return water inlet 16 on the second pipeline L2 via the third pipeline L3. The outlet port 13 is located on the third pipeline L3. A first one-way valve 15 is provided between the return water inlet 16 and the outlet port 13 on the second pipeline L2, which allows unidirectional flow to the return water inlet 16. That is, the first one-way valve 15 restricts the water flow to flow only from the outlet port 143 of the first three-way valve 14 to the return water inlet 16. The first one-way valve is configured to restrict the water flow in the third pipeline L3 to flow only from the outlet port 143 of the first three-way valve 14 to the return water inlet 16.

[0034] It should be noted that the first water inlet 11 includes a hot water interface 111 and a first filter screen 112. The hot water interface 111 can be connected to a hot water pipe, introducing hot water into the first pipe L1, meaning the first pipe L1 is a hot water flow pipe. The first filter screen 112 is used to filter impurities in the water flow, such as sand and sludge, to prevent clogging of subsequent pipes. The second water inlet 12 includes a cold water interface 121 and a second filter screen 122. The cold water interface 121 can be connected to a cold water pipe, introducing cold water into the second pipe L2, meaning the second pipe L2 is a cold water flow pipe. The second filter screen 122 is used to filter impurities in the water flow, such as sand and sludge, to prevent clogging of subsequent pipes.

[0035] In one example, the first three-way valve 14 includes a first thermostatic valve. This first thermostatic valve is configured to mix hot and cold water to form warm water at a first preset temperature. The first preset temperature can be set according to specific scenarios; for example, the value range of the first preset temperature is [35, 40] degrees Celsius. In one example, when the water outlet is a faucet, the first preset temperature can be 38 degrees Celsius.

[0036] In this example, the first thermostatic valve is also configured to be closed when the temperature of the warm water exceeds a first preset temperature and the difference between the warm water temperature and the first preset temperature exceeds a first temperature change amount. The first temperature change amount can be set according to specific scenarios; for example, the range of the first temperature change amount is [1, 5] degrees Celsius. In one example, when the water outlet device 10 is a faucet, the first temperature change amount can be 2 degrees Celsius. That is, when the first preset temperature is 38 degrees Celsius and the first temperature change amount is 2 degrees Celsius, the first thermostatic valve will be closed when the temperature is greater than or equal to 40 degrees Celsius. By keeping the first thermostatic valve closed, the warm water in the third pipe L3 can be kept at the expected temperature, avoiding excessively high temperatures that could affect usability and improving the user experience of using warm water.

[0037] In one example, the first three-way valve 14 includes a mixing valve configured to mix hot and cold water into warm water. By setting the mixing valve, hot and cold water can be mixed into warm water; and the temperature of the warm water can be adjusted according to the opening degree (i.e., the degree of opening or the proportion of opening) of the mixing valve. This warm water can be stored within the third pipe L3, achieving an effect of instantaneous warm water dispensing after the outlet is opened.

[0038] In one example, see [link to example]. Figure 1The water outlet device 10 includes a second one-way valve 17, which can be installed on the first pipeline L1 or on the pipeline before the first inlet 11. Taking the second one-way valve 17 installed on the first pipeline L1 as an example, the second one-way valve 17 is configured to restrict hot water flow only from the first inlet 11 to the first inlet port 141 of the first three-way valve 14. By setting the second one-way valve 17, ensuring unidirectional water flow, backflow of warm water into the hot water pipeline can be prevented. It is understood that... Figure 1 The example shows the second one-way valve 17 installed on the first pipeline L1. In some possible examples, the second one-way valve 17 can also be installed before the first water inlet 11, that is, the water flows through the second one-way valve 17 first and then through the first water inlet 11. The above arrangement can also limit the one-way flow of hot water.

[0039] based on Figure 1 The working principle of the illustrated water outlet device 10 is as follows: After hot water is connected to the first inlet 11 of the water outlet device 10, the hot water flows sequentially through the first inlet 11, the second one-way valve 17, and the hot water pipeline L1 to the first inlet port 141 of the first three-way valve 14. After cold water is connected to the second inlet 12 of the water outlet device 10, the cold water flows sequentially through the second inlet 12, the cold water pipeline L2, and to the second inlet port 142 of the first three-way valve 14. The first three-way valve 14 mixes the hot and cold water to form warm water, which is output from the outlet port 143 of the first three-way valve 14 and flows into the third pipeline L3. When the outlet 13 is not open, the warm water flows through the first one-way valve 15 to the return port 16, which is the second pipeline L2. That is, the warm water and cold water flow together into the second inlet port 142 of the first three-way valve 14. It can be understood that in this scenario, the temperature of the hot water, warm water, and cold water decreases sequentially.

[0040] Since the second inlet port 142 of the first three-way valve 14 changes from cold water to warm water, the temperature rise rate of the warm water mixed by the first three-way valve 14 is further increased, shortening the time to obtain warm water.

[0041] When the first three-way valve 14 is a first thermostatic valve, it is in a closed state when the temperature of the warm water exceeds the first preset temperature and the difference between the temperature of the warm water and the first preset temperature exceeds the first temperature change amount. In this way, warm water is stored in the third pipeline L3.

[0042] When a user needs warm water, they can open the outlet 13, and warm water will flow into the outlet 13 from the third pipe L3, thus meeting the user's need for warm water. Furthermore, due to the storage of the first one-way valve 15, cold water cannot flow into the pipe between the first one-way valve 15 and the outlet 13, thus maintaining the temperature of the warm water.

[0043] As can be seen, the aforementioned water outlet device 10 dispenses usable warm water directly without releasing cold water during use, thus saving precious clean water resources. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for users to wait for cold water to be released, reducing waiting time. In other words, warm water can be used simply by opening the outlet, enhancing the user experience.

[0044] See one example. Figure 2 The water outlet device 10 also includes a second three-way valve 18. The second three-way valve 18 is disposed on the third pipeline L3 and between the water outlet 13 and the return water outlet 16. The second three-way valve 18 is configured to be closed when the temperature of the warm water exceeds a second preset temperature and when the difference between the temperature of the warm water and the second preset temperature exceeds a second temperature change.

[0045] It should be noted that the aforementioned second preset temperature can be set according to specific scenarios. For example, the value range of the second preset temperature is [35, 40] degrees Celsius. In one example, when the water outlet is a faucet, the aforementioned second preset temperature can be 35 degrees Celsius.

[0046] In this example, the second three-way valve 18 is also configured to be closed when the temperature of the warm water exceeds a first preset temperature and when the difference between the temperature of the warm water and the first preset temperature exceeds a first temperature change. The second temperature change can be set according to specific scenarios; for example, the value range of the second temperature change is [1, 5] degrees Celsius.

[0047] In this example, when the water outlet device 10 is a faucet, the aforementioned second temperature change can be 2 degrees Celsius. That is, when the second preset temperature is 35 degrees Celsius and the second temperature change is 2 degrees Celsius, the second three-way valve 18 will be closed when the temperature value is greater than or equal to 37 degrees Celsius. By keeping the second three-way valve 18 closed, it can be ensured that the warm water in the third pipeline L3, located between the first three-way valve 14 and the second three-way valve 18, is in the expected state, avoiding excessively low temperatures that would affect use and improving the experience of using warm water.

[0048] In another example, the second three-way valve 18 includes a second thermostatic valve; the first inlet port 181 of the second thermostatic valve is connected to the outlet port 143 of the first three-way valve 14, and the second inlet port 182 of the second thermostatic valve is connected to the third pipeline L3 after being connected to the outlet port 183. The second thermostatic valve is configured to be in a closed state when the temperature of the warm water exceeds a second preset temperature and when the difference between the temperature of the warm water and the second preset temperature exceeds a second temperature change. By keeping the second thermostatic valve in a closed state, the flow of warm water in the third pipeline L3 can be cut off, ensuring that the warm water in the pipeline between the first three-way valve 14 and the second three-way valve 18 in the third pipeline L3 is in the expected state, avoiding the temperature from being too low and affecting the use, and improving the experience of using warm water.

[0049] In another example, the second three-way valve 18 includes a temperature shut-off valve; this temperature shut-off valve is configured to be closed when the temperature of the warm water exceeds the second preset temperature and when the difference between the temperature of the warm water and the second preset temperature exceeds a second temperature change. By closing the temperature shut-off valve, the flow of warm water in the third pipeline L3 can be cut off, ensuring that the warm water in the pipeline L3 located between the first three-way valve 14 and the second three-way valve 18 is at the expected temperature, avoiding excessively low temperatures that could affect usability, and improving the user experience of using warm water.

[0050] In another example, the second three-way valve 18 includes a solenoid valve and a temperature detection module. The temperature detection module is electrically connected to the solenoid valve. The temperature detection module includes a temperature detection probe inserted into the third pipe L3 to detect the temperature of the water in the third pipe L3. The temperature detection module contains a processor, such as a microcontroller (MCU). Thus, the temperature detection module is configured to detect the temperature of the warm water in the third pipe L3, and generate a control signal when the temperature of the warm water exceeds a second preset temperature and the difference between the warm water temperature and the second preset temperature exceeds a second temperature change. This control signal can be a high-level signal. The solenoid valve is configured to be closed upon receiving the control signal. By setting the solenoid valve and the temperature detection module, the function of the temperature shut-off valve or the second thermostatic valve can be achieved, ensuring that the warm water in the third pipe L3, located between the first three-way valve 14 and the second three-way valve 18, is in the expected state, avoiding excessively low temperatures that could affect usability, and improving the user experience of using warm water.

[0051] See one example. Figure 3The water outlet device 10 includes a temperature detection module (not shown in the figure) and a display module 19. The temperature probe of the temperature detection module is located within the third pipe L3. The temperature detection module is configured to detect the temperature value of the water within the third pipe L3 and send it to the display module 19. The display module 19 is configured to display the temperature value. Thus, by displaying the temperature value of the water within the third pipe L3, the user is assisted in determining the warm water temperature, which improves the user experience.

[0052] In one example, see [link to example]. Figure 3 The water outlet device 10 includes a communication module 20. This communication module 20 is configured to upload the temperature value of the water in the third pipe L3 to a smart terminal or the cloud. In this way, by uploading the temperature value of the water in the third pipe L3, the warm water temperature can be determined without physically inspecting the water outlet device 10, improving the user experience.

[0053] Understandably, the temperature detection module, display module 19, and communication module 20 require a power supply. In some examples, a battery compartment (not shown in the figure) is provided inside the water outlet device 10. The battery compartment contains dry cell batteries or lithium batteries, which are used to power the device.

[0054] In one example, see [link to example]. Figure 3 The water outlet device 10 includes a hydroelectric power generation module 21, which is located between the first three-way valve 14 and the water outlet 13. The hydroelectric power generation module 21 is configured to generate electricity driven by the water flow in the third pipeline L3 and supply this electricity to the display module 19 and / or the communication module 20. Power is provided by the hydroelectric power generation module 21, eliminating the need for dry cell batteries or lithium batteries, thus ensuring the power required by the display module 19 and / or the communication module 20. Understandably, when the first three-way valve 14 and / or the second three-way valve 18 are closed, the water flow in the third pipeline L3 stops, and the hydroelectric power generation module 21 ceases generating electricity and cannot supply power to the display module 19 and / or the communication module 20. In this case, the display module 19 can switch to a green state to indicate that preheating is complete and warm water is available. Alternatively, the communication module 20 can, upon detecting a power outage, use the power stored in a storage capacitor or similar device to send a preset signal indicating that preheating is complete and warm water is available, thereby enhancing the user experience by reminding them that preheating is finished.

[0055] In this embodiment, the water outlet device 10 may include the first three-way valve 14, the first one-way valve 15, and the second one-way valve 17, and may also include the first three-way valve 14, the first one-way valve 15, the second one-way valve 17, the hydroelectric power generation module 21, the display module 19, and / or the communication module 20. The combination of components included in the water outlet device 10 can be selected according to the specific scenario.

[0056] See one example. Figure 4 The water outlet device 10, in addition to including a first three-way valve 14, a first one-way valve 15, a second one-way valve 17, a hydroelectric power generation module 21, a display module 19, and / or a communication module 20, also includes a third one-way valve 22; the third one-way valve 22 is disposed between the first three-way valve 14 and the return port 16. The third one-way valve 22 is configured to restrict water flow only from the second inlet 12 to the second inlet port 142 of the first three-way valve 14.

[0057] In one example, with Figure 4 Taking the example structure, with the hydroelectric power generation module 21 installed, the third one-way valve 22 ensures that the water flow from the second inlet port 142 of the first three-way valve 14 will not flow back to the second pipeline L2. That is, warm water can only flow out from the outlet port 143 of the first three-way valve 14 and then into the third pipeline L3. Furthermore, the water flow in the third pipeline L3 can drive the hydroelectric power generation module 21 to rotate continuously and generate electricity, which can ensure the normal operation of the display module 19 and / or the communication module 20. It can be understood that the third one-way valve 22 can restrict the water flow to flow only from the second inlet port to the second inlet port 142 of the first three-way valve 14, that is, prevent the water flow from the second inlet port 142 of the first three-way valve 14 from flowing to the return port 16 through the second pipeline L2. Compared with the scheme without the third check valve 22, the scheme with the third check valve 22 can increase the flow velocity of the water in the third pipeline L3, which can provide a stronger driving force for the hydroelectric power generation module 21; and, since the flow velocity of the water is increased, it is beneficial to increase the temperature rise rate of the warm water in the third pipeline L3.

[0058] Based on the above Figures 1 to 4 The example water outlet device, taking a faucet as an example, describes its working process, including: When the circulating water pump 40 receives a trigger command, such as opening and then closing any of the faucet outlets 13, the circulating water pump 40 starts cold water to enter the water heater, and hot water comes out from the water heater 30 and enters the hot water pipe. The low-temperature water in the hot water pipe flows through the main hot water pipe (the hot water pipe on the left side in the vertical direction), into the hot water branch pipe (the hot water pipe in the middle in the horizontal direction), and then through the hot water branch pipe into the first inlet 11 of the faucet, and through the first pipe L1 to the first thermostatic valve (or the first thermostatic valve core) 14.

[0059] After the first thermostatic valve mixes the hot and cold water, the warm water enters the third pipe L3. Due to the presence of the third one-way valve 22, the hot water cannot flow back into the second pipe L2 through the mixing channel, and therefore cannot enter the pipe containing the cold water.

[0060] The warm water output from the outlet of the first thermostatic valve flows through the hydroelectric power generation module 21, driving the module to generate electricity, which is then supplied to the display module 19 and the communication module 20. The temperature detection module begins monitoring the water temperature, and the communication module 20 reports the temperature value to the smart terminal.

[0061] After passing through the hydropower generation module 21, the warm water enters the second thermostatic valve and flows in from the first inlet port 181 (or hot water inlet) of the second thermostatic valve; then, it flows out from the outlet port 183 of the second thermostatic valve to the first check valve 15, and then flows into the second pipeline L2, and finally returns to the water pump inlet through the second pipeline L2 to form a cycle.

[0062] The first thermostatic valve controls the temperature of the warm water (or the temperature of the warm water used by the user), for example, 38℃. The second thermostatic valve is used to control the allowable water temperature entering the second pipe L2 (or the cold water pipe). When warm water flows back into the first thermostatic valve, the temperature of the warm water flowing out of the first thermostatic valve gradually increases.

[0063] When the temperature exceeds a certain deviation range from the first predicted temperature of the first thermostatic valve, i.e., the second preset change amount mentioned above (e.g., 2°C), the first thermostatic valve closes. At this time, the hydroelectric power generation module stops generating electricity due to the lack of water flow, and temperature display and communication cease. The smart terminal simultaneously and remotely reminds the user that the zero-cold water preheating has ended and that warm water can be used at any time.

[0064] The user turns on the tap by simply turning on the water outlet switch, instantly obtaining warm water at the desired temperature. Simultaneously, the water flow monitoring device at the pump end detects the water flow stopping and the pump ceases operation.

[0065] During this process, a small amount of warm water, such as water below 38°C, will enter the cold water pipe. If a lower temperature, such as 35°C, is desired, the second preset temperature of the second thermostatic valve can be set to 35°C. When the second thermostatic valve reaches the second preset temperature, the water circuit will be shut off. Furthermore, in this reminder mode, users do not need to adjust their preferred water temperature settings; simply turning on the faucet will allow for a brief transition from 35°C to 38°C. During this process, the hydroelectric power generation module activates and monitors the outlet water temperature, which is displayed on the display module. This eliminates the need for users to repeatedly test the water temperature by hand, thus achieving elegant and comfortable water use.

[0066] In one embodiment, the structure of the water outlet device 10 is as follows: Figure 5 As shown. In the spatial coordinate system oxyz, the body B of the water outlet device 10 is arranged in a clockwise direction as follows: the first side (top position), the second side (right position), the third side (bottom position), and the fourth side (left position).

[0067] The first side (top position) of the main body B is provided with a first water inlet 11 and a second water inlet 12.

[0068] The first water inlet 11 has a hot water interface 111 and a first filter screen 112. The hot water interface 111 is a male connector that can be rotated to connect to a female connector. Furthermore, a second one-way valve 17 is provided between the male and female connectors of the hot water interface 111.

[0069] The second water inlet 12 has a cold water interface 121 and a second filter screen 122. The cold water interface 121 is a male connector that can be rotated to connect to a female connector. Furthermore, a first check valve 15 is provided at a position extending from the female connector of the cold water interface 121 to a third side.

[0070] The second side (right side position) of the main body B is equipped with a third one-way valve 22, a first three-way valve 14, a hydroelectric power generation module 21, and a display module 19.

[0071] The third side (bottom position) of the main body B is provided with four water outlets 13, and ambient lighting LEDs can also be installed.

[0072] A hole H is provided on the fourth side (left side) of the main body B. This hole H can accommodate a shower head, water outlet, or external bracket.

[0073] In one embodiment, see Figure 6 and Figure 7 The first inlet port 141 of the first three-way valve 14 is connected to the first water inlet 11 via a first pipeline L1. The second inlet port 142 of the first three-way valve 14 is connected to the second water inlet 12 via a second pipeline L2, and a third check valve 22 is installed on the second pipeline L2. The third pipeline L3 is connected to the outlet port 143 of the first three-way valve 14 via an outlet 13 and a second water inlet 12. It should be noted that... Figure 5 The first three-way valve 14 and the third one-way valve 22 have not yet been installed. The first inlet port 141, the second inlet port 142 and the outlet port 143 mentioned above are only used to illustrate the relative positions of each pipeline.

[0074] Based on the aforementioned water outlet device, this disclosure also provides a zero-cold-water system, see further details. Figures 1-4 This includes: a water heater 30, a circulating water pump 40, and a water outlet device 10 as described above. Among them, Water heater 30 is configured to heat water and store hot water; The circulating water pump 40 is configured to circulate hot water in the water heater 30 into the hot water pipe, and to circulate cold water in the hot water pipe into the water heater 30; The water outlet device 10 is configured to mix hot and cold water into warm water and store it within its third pipe L3.

[0075] Understandably, when the circulating water pump 40 is in operation, it can replace the cold water in the hot water main pipe with hot water through at least one circulation process, and provide hot water to the water outlet device 10 to ensure that there is always hot water in the water outlet device 10.

[0076] It should be noted that, Figures 1 to 4 The example hot water main pipe includes solid line pipes and dashed line pipes. The solid line pipes are mandatory hot water pipes, while the dashed line pipes are return water pipes that can be laid depending on the specific scenario.

[0077] In one example, the circulating water pump 40 includes a controller 41 and a switch 42. The switch 42 is configured to generate a touch signal after sensing a user's touch operation and send the touch signal to the controller 41. The controller 41 is configured to control the circulating water pump 40 to operate in response to the touch signal.

[0078] In one example, the switching device 42 includes at least one of the following: an infrared sensor, a door magnetic sensor, a smart light fixture, a human body sensor, and a door lock sensor.

[0079] The working principle of the zero-cold-water system provided in this embodiment is as follows: Users can perform touch operations, such as manually starting the circulating water pump or automatically triggering it. Taking automatic triggering of the circulating water pump as an example, the switching device of the circulating water pump 40 is an infrared sensor. When the user is within the detection range of the infrared sensor, the infrared sensor can detect the user and generate a touch signal.

[0080] The switching device of the circulating water pump 40 is a door magnetic sensor, which is installed on the door frame of the bathroom or washroom. When the user pushes or pulls the door, the door magnetic sensor detects the touch operation and generates a touch signal.

[0081] The switching device of the circulating water pump 40 is a smart light fixture, which can be installed in the bathroom or washroom. When the smart light fixture is turned on, it generates a touch signal.

[0082] The switching device of the circulating water pump 40 is a human body sensor, which can be installed near the water outlet, near the water heater, in the bathroom, or in the washroom. When the human body sensor detects a human body, it can generate a touch signal.

[0083] The switching device of the circulating water pump 40 is a door lock sensor, which can be used as a door lock for the bathroom or washroom, or as a door lock for the main entrance. When the door lock sensor detects that a user has entered the main entrance or the bathroom or washroom, it generates a touch signal.

[0084] It should be noted that the aforementioned switching device 42 can be configured according to specific scenarios, such as smart terminals, smart sockets, smart TVs, smart air conditioners, etc. When it is able to detect user touch operation and generate touch signal to provide to the zero-cold-water system, the corresponding solution falls within the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0085] The disclosed solution can clearly and accurately obtain the water temperature status of the target outlet. On the one hand, it can save unnecessary waiting time. Zero cold water can be triggered manually, or it can be intelligently linked with the zero cold water system through human body sensors, door and window sensors or smart lights, which can greatly save water waiting time. It can solve problems such as frequent water temperature testing, large waste of cold water resources, and large waste of hot water energy, so as to provide users with a comfortable, economical and intelligent hot water experience. It can bring a higher user experience to water temperature sensitive groups (such as mothers and infants).

[0086] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosure herein. This disclosure is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the following claims.

[0087] It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of this disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A water outlet device, characterized in that, include: First water inlet (11); Second inlet (12); Outlet (13); and, A first three-way valve (14) has its first inlet port (141) connected to the first water inlet (11) via a first pipeline (L1), its second inlet port (142) connected to the second water inlet (12) via a second pipeline (L2), and its outlet port (143) connected to the return water inlet (16) via a third pipeline (L3). The return water inlet (16) is located on the second pipeline (L2). The outlet (13) is located on the third pipeline (L3), and, A first check valve (15) is provided between the return port (16) and the outlet (13) to conduct to the return port (16). The first check valve is configured to restrict the water flow in the third pipeline (L3) to flow only from the outlet port (143) of the first three-way valve (14) to the return port (16).

2. The water outlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first three-way valve (14) includes a first thermostatic valve; The first thermostatic valve is configured to mix hot water and cold water to form warm water at a first preset temperature; The first thermostatic valve is also configured to be in a closed state when the temperature of the warm water exceeds the first preset temperature and when the difference between the temperature of the warm water and the first preset temperature exceeds the first temperature change amount.

3. The water outlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first three-way valve (14) includes a mixing valve; the mixing valve is configured to mix hot water and cold water into warm water.

4. The water outlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water outlet device also includes a second check valve (17); the second check valve (17) is installed on the first pipeline (L1) or on the pipeline before the first water inlet (11); The second one-way valve (17) is configured to restrict hot water to flow only from the first inlet (11) to the first inlet port of the first three-way valve (14).

5. The water outlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water outlet device further includes: a second three-way valve (18); the second three-way valve (18) is disposed on the third pipeline (L3) and between the water outlet (13) and the water return port (16); The second three-way valve (18) is configured to be closed when the temperature of the warm water exceeds the second preset temperature and when the difference between the temperature of the warm water and the second preset temperature exceeds the second temperature change.

6. The water outlet device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second three-way valve (18) includes a second thermostatic valve; The second thermostatic valve is configured to be closed when the temperature of the warm water exceeds the second preset temperature and when the difference between the temperature of the warm water and the second preset temperature exceeds the second temperature change amount.

7. The water outlet device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second three-way valve (18) includes a temperature shut-off valve; The temperature shut-off valve is configured to be in a closed state when the temperature of the warm water exceeds the second preset temperature and when the difference between the temperature of the warm water and the second preset temperature exceeds the second temperature change amount.

8. The water outlet device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second three-way valve (18) includes a solenoid valve and a temperature detection module; the temperature detection module is electrically connected to the solenoid valve; The temperature detection module is configured to detect the temperature of the warm water in the third pipeline (L3), and generate a control signal when the temperature value of the warm water exceeds the second preset temperature and the difference between the temperature value of the warm water and the second preset temperature exceeds the second temperature change amount. The solenoid valve is configured to be in a closed state upon receiving the control signal.

9. The water outlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water outlet device includes a temperature detection module and a display module (19); the temperature detection module is configured to detect the temperature value of the water in the third pipeline (L3) and send it to the display module (19). The display module (19) is configured to display the temperature value.

10. The water outlet device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The water outlet device includes a communication module (20); the communication module (20) is configured to upload the temperature value of the water in the third pipeline (L3) to a smart terminal or the cloud.

11. The water outlet device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The water outlet device includes: a hydroelectric power generation module (21); the hydroelectric power generation module (21) is disposed between the first three-way valve (14) and the water outlet (13); the hydroelectric power generation module (21) is configured to generate electricity under the drive of the water flow in the third pipeline (L3) and provide the electricity to the display module (19) and / or the communication module (20).

12. The water outlet device according to claim 1, 4 or 11, characterized in that, The water outlet device further includes: a third one-way valve (22); the third one-way valve (22) is disposed between the first three-way valve (14) and the return port (16); The third one-way valve (22) is configured to restrict water flow to flow only from the second inlet to the second inlet of the first three-way valve (14).

13. The water outlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water outlet device is a shower head or a faucet.

14. A zero-cold-water system, characterized in that, It includes a water heater (30), a circulating water pump (40), and a water outlet device (10) as described in any one of claims 1 to 13. The water heater (30) is configured to heat water and store hot water; The circulating water pump (40) is configured to circulate hot water in the water heater (30) into the hot water pipe and to circulate cold water in the hot water pipe into the water heater; The water outlet device (10) is configured to mix hot and cold water into warm water and store it within its third conduit (L3).

15. The zero-cold-water system according to claim 14, characterized in that, The circulating water pump (40) includes a control device (41) and a switching device (42). The switching device (42) is configured to generate a touch signal after sensing the user's touch operation and send the touch signal to the control device (41). The controller (41) is configured to control the circulating water pump (40) to operate in response to the touch signal.

16. The zero-cold-water system according to claim 15, characterized in that, The switching device (42) includes at least one of the following: an infrared sensor, a door magnetic sensor, a smart lamp, a human body sensor, and a door lock sensor.

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