Electric water heater

Abstract

The utility model discloses an electric water heater which comprises an inner container, a heating unit, a control unit, a water inlet end, a water outlet end, a heat exchanger, a pump, an energy gathering bin, an opening adjusting device, a first circulation end and a second circulation end. The water inlet end, the heat exchanger and the water outlet end are sequentially connected to form a tap water heating channel. The circulating end I, the heat exchanger, the pump and the circulating end II are connected together to form a circulating heat exchange channel; the heating unit is arranged in the energy gathering bin, a communicating hole is formed in the energy gathering bin, and the communicating hole communicates with the inner container; the opening degree adjusting device achieves one or more of the functions that the heating unit heats the heat storage media in the inner container, instantly heats tap water, mixedly heats the tap water, controls the proportion of the high-temperature heat storage media and the low-temperature heat storage media entering the energy gathering bin and controls the proportion of the media flowing into the inner container and the energy gathering bin from the second circulation end by controlling the opening degree of the corresponding communicating holes in the energy gathering bin. The control unit controls the working state of the execution element according to one or more of the working mode, the water flow state and the temperature of the water heater.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model belongs to the field of water heaters, in particular to an electric water heater. Background Art

[0002] Traditional electric storage water heaters have high energy consumption and slow heating times, making them insufficient for multiple bathing groups. Scale accumulation and dead water areas compromise water hygiene, creating a risk of tank explosion under pressure. The alternating high pressure and temperature fluctuations can cause microcracks and corrosion in the enamel, leading to stress corrosion in stainless steel tanks. Furthermore, they lack constant temperature control, and high-temperature water output can cause burns to the elderly and children. Despite these drawbacks, traditional electric storage water heaters remain resilient due to their low price, ease of installation, proximity to the bathroom, and rapid hot water delivery. Their sales have consistently slightly outpaced those of gas-fired water heaters. While domestic sales have declined in recent years, annual sales still reach approximately 15 million units, with production exceeding 45 million units, demonstrating significant export volumes. An estimated 200 million units are in the Chinese market, representing nearly half of the total water heater market. Instant electric water heaters, however, require high power consumption and require less water in winter, making them a niche player.

[0003] The present application aims to develop an electric water heater that not only combines the advantages of electric instant water heaters and electric storage water heaters, has a simple structure and low cost, but also solves one or more of the problems of traditional electric storage water heaters such as scaling, high energy consumption, slow heating, unsanitary conditions, easy corrosion and leakage of the inner tank, and pressure bearing of the inner tank, and is of great practical significance. Utility Model Content

[0004] In order to solve the technical deficiencies of existing water heaters, the utility model provides a new technical solution.

[0005] The purpose of this utility model is solved by the following technical solutions:

[0006] 1. An electric water heater, comprising an inner tank, a heating unit, a water flow sensing unit, a control unit, a temperature sensor, a water inlet, a water outlet, and also comprising a heat exchanger, a pump, an energy collecting chamber, an opening adjustment device, a circulation end 1, and a circulation end 2; the water inlet, the heat exchanger, and the water outlet are connected in sequence to form a tap water heating channel, and the water flow sensing unit is arranged on the tap water heating channel; the circulation end 1, the heat exchanger, the pump, and the circulation end 2 are connected together to form a circulation heat exchange channel; the heating unit is arranged in the energy collecting chamber, and a connecting hole is provided on the energy collecting chamber, and the connecting hole is connected to the inner tank; the opening adjustment device realizes one or more functions of the heating unit heating the heat storage medium in the inner tank, instant heating of the tap water, mixed heating, controlling the ratio of high and low temperature heat storage media entering the energy collecting chamber, and controlling the ratio of the medium flowing from the circulation end 2 into the inner tank and the energy collecting chamber by controlling the opening of the connecting hole on the energy collecting chamber; the control unit controls the working state of the heating unit, the pump, and the opening adjustment device according to one or more functions of the working mode, water flow state, and temperature of the water heater.

[0007] Optionally, the connecting holes on the energy gathering bin are respectively arranged at the bottom and the top of the energy gathering bin; the connecting hole at the bottom is the water inlet of the energy gathering bin, which is used to suck in the heat storage medium from the bottom of the inner tank; the connecting hole at the top is the water inlet and outlet of the energy gathering bin, which is used to input the heat storage medium heated in the energy gathering bin into the inner tank or to suck the heat storage medium from the top of the inner tank into the energy gathering bin; the opening adjustment device can at least adjust the opening of the water inlet of the energy gathering bin.

[0008] Optionally, the water suction port of the circulation end 1 is arranged in the energy gathering bin.

[0009] Optionally, a hot water pipe is further included, with both ends of the hot water pipe being connected to the top of the inner tank and the energy gathering chamber respectively.

[0010] Optionally, a flow distribution device is further included, which is connected to the opening adjustment device. The flow distribution device is arranged on the circulation end 2 and is used to adjust the ratio of the heat storage medium flowing from the circulation end 2 into the energy storage bin and the inner tank.

[0011] Optionally, the opening adjustment device includes a stepper motor and a baffle, the baffle is connected to the energy gathering chamber, the shaft of the stepper motor is connected to the baffle, and the stepper motor drives the baffle to move according to the working mode and working status of the water heater to adjust the opening of the corresponding connecting hole of the energy gathering chamber.

[0012] Optionally, the inner liner is provided with an exhaust hole or an exhaust pipe connected to the atmosphere; it also includes a liquid level sensing unit, which is arranged on the inner liner and connected to the control unit; the liquid level sensing unit can use any of resistance, capacitance, ultrasound, and electromagnetic methods to sense the liquid level in the inner liner.

[0013] Optionally, a valve is further included, one end of which is connected to the tap water heating channel, and the other end is connected to the circulating heat exchange channel or the inner tank so that the air at the pump suction end can be removed when water is injected into the inner tank.

[0014] Optionally, the valve is a reversing valve or a proportional valve, the inner tank is a closed structure, and also includes a water outlet pipe; the valve is used to control the ratio of tap water flowing through the inner tank and the heat exchanger, and the water outlet pipe is used to directly output the hot water in the inner tank to the water outlet end.

[0015] Optionally, an expansion water tank is further included, and the expansion water tank is connected to the inner tank.

[0016] Beneficial effects

[0017] The electric water heater disclosed in the present application not only combines the advantages of electric instant water heaters and electric storage water heaters, but also has a simple structure and low cost. It also solves one or more of the problems of traditional electric storage water heaters such as scaling, high energy consumption, slow heating, unsanitary conditions, non-constant temperature, easy corrosion and leakage of the inner tank, and pressure bearing of the inner tank, and is of great promotion significance. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The present invention is further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0019] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of an electric water heater Figure 1

[0020] Figure 2 It is a structural diagram Figure 1 Local magnification Figure 1

[0021] Figure 3 It is a structural diagram Figure 1 Local magnification Figure 2

[0022] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of an electric water heater Figure 2

[0023] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the structure of an electric water heater Figure 3

[0024] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of an electric water heater Figure 4

[0025] Figure 7 It is a local amplification of the energy storage chamber. Figure 1

[0026] Figure 8 It is a local amplification of the energy storage chamber. Figure 2

[0027] Figure 9 It is a local amplification of the energy storage chamber. Figure 3

[0028] Figure 10 A flow distribution device Figure 1

[0029] Figure 11 A flow distribution device Figure 2

[0030] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of the structure of an electric water heater Figure 5

[0031] Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the structure of an electric water heater Figure 6

[0032] Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the structure of an electric water heater Figure 7

[0033] Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the structure of an electric water heater Figure 8

[0034] Figure 16 A schematic diagram of the structure of an electric water heater Figure 9

[0035] Figure 17 It is a local amplification of the energy storage chamber. Figure 4

[0036] In the picture:

[0037] 1. Inner liner 101, exhaust hole 2, heating unit 3, heat exchanger 4, pump 5, control unit 6, water flow sensor unit 7, energy storage chamber 701, energy storage chamber water inlet 702, energy storage chamber water inlet and outlet 8, opening adjustment device 801, stepper motor 802, baffle 9, circulation end 2 901, sleeve 902, spring 903, inner liner return port 904, energy storage chamber return port 10, circulation end 1 11, energy storage chamber thermal insulation sleeve 12, water inlet 13 , water outlet 14, temperature sensor 15, drain end 16, connecting pipe 1 17, connecting pipe 2 18, insulation layer 19, hot water pipe 20, return pipe 21, sealing ring 22, valve 23, exhaust pipe 24, expansion tank 25, filling pipe 26, water outlet pipe 27, liquid level sensing unit 28, connecting pipe 29, flow distribution device 30, housing 31, threaded cover 32, pressure relief valve 33, one-way valve 34, slider 35, three-way seat 36, clamping ring DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] It should be noted that the embodiments and features of the embodiments in this application can be combined with each other, provided that no conflict exists. The specification uses both the heat storage medium and water in the inner liner 1. Water is only one type of heat storage medium. Except for the structure that provides a valve for adding tap water to the inner liner and the structure that allows the heat storage medium in the inner liner to be used directly, the term "water in the inner liner" does not limit it to water as a heat storage medium, but rather refers to all feasible heat storage media. The following further describes the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0039] Example 1

[0040] An electric water heater, comprising an inner tank 1, a heating unit 2, a water flow sensing unit 6, a control unit 5, a temperature sensor 14, a water inlet 12, a water outlet 13, and further comprising a heat exchanger 3, a pump 4, an energy-gathering chamber 7, an opening adjustment device 8, a circulation end 10, and a circulation end 2 9; the water inlet 12, the heat exchanger 3, and the water outlet 13 are sequentially connected to form a tap water heating channel, the water flow sensing unit 6 is arranged on the tap water heating channel; the circulation end 10, the heat exchanger 3, the pump 4, and the circulation end 2 9 are connected together to form a circulating heat exchange channel; the heating unit 2 is arranged Inside the energy gathering bin, a connecting hole is provided on the energy gathering bin, and the connecting hole is connected to the inner tank; the opening adjustment device 8 realizes one or more functions of the heating unit 2 heating the heat storage medium in the inner tank, instant heating of tap water, mixed heating, controlling the ratio of high and low temperature heat storage media entering the energy gathering bin, and controlling the ratio of the medium flowing from the circulation end 2 into the inner tank and the energy gathering bin by controlling the opening of the corresponding connecting hole on the energy gathering bin; the control unit 5 controls the working state of the heating unit 2, the pump 4 and the opening adjustment device 8 according to one or more functions of the working mode, water flow state and temperature of the water heater.

[0041] like Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 As shown, Figure 2 and Figure 3 yes Figure 1A partial enlarged view. The energy-gathering bin 7 is actually a cavity with holes, and is not limited to a shape. If the relevant connecting holes on the energy-gathering bin are closed to prevent convection between the medium in the energy-gathering bin and the medium in the inner tank, the heating unit 2 only heats a small amount of water in the energy-gathering bin, circulates it through the pump 4, and transfers the heat energy to the tap water through the heat exchanger 3. At this time, the tap water is heated instantly; and when the corresponding connecting holes on the energy-gathering bin are opened, the heat storage medium in the energy-gathering bin and the heat storage medium in the inner tank can transfer heat energy through convection. At this time, although the heating unit 2 is still in the energy-gathering bin, it can heat the heat storage medium in the inner tank 1 through convection, so that the inner tank can store heat in advance; it can also be in a superposition state of the two, that is, Mixed heating, by adjusting the opening area of ​​the relevant connecting holes on the energy-gathering bin, part of the power of the heating unit 2 is used for instant heating of the tap water, and the other part of the power is used to heat the heat storage medium in the inner tank; mixed heating also has another working state, in which the heat storage medium is sucked from the inner tank into the energy-gathering bin, and then passes through the heating unit 2 for two-stage heating before entering the heat exchanger 3, and the tap water is heated by the heat exchanger. At this time, both the thermal energy stored in the inner tank and the immediate work of the heating unit 2 are utilized, which is equivalent to both energy storage heating and instant heating for the tap water, which is also another form of mixed heating. The above instant heating of tap water, heating of the inner tank, and mixed heating are all achieved by adjusting the opening of the relevant connecting holes on the energy-gathering bin. In order to allow the energy-gathering bin to dissipate as little heat to the inner tank as possible during instant heating, an energy-gathering bin insulation sleeve 11 can also be provided on the energy-gathering bin 7. The opening adjustment device 8 is a device that can control the opening size of the corresponding connecting holes on the energy-gathering bin, Figures 1 to 3 The opening adjustment device shown in FIG. 1 is composed of a stepper motor 801 and a shutter 802. Other structures are also possible, requiring only a driving element to drive a shutter element, which in turn adjusts the opening of the connecting hole in the energy-gathering chamber. Of course, the opening adjustment device is not limited to adjusting the opening of the connecting hole in the energy-gathering chamber; it can also be used to adjust other mechanisms, such as the flow distribution device described later. The energy-gathering chamber 7 is mounted within the inner liner 1, and the heating unit 2 is mounted within the energy-gathering chamber. The driving element of the opening adjustment device 8 is generally an electrical component, so it must be isolated from water and preferably also thermally insulated to prevent high temperatures in the inner liner or the energy-gathering chamber from affecting the life of the driving element. Since the shutter element adjusts the opening of the connecting hole in the energy-gathering chamber, the connecting hole in the energy-gathering chamber is connected to the inner liner to allow for convection between the two media. Therefore, the shutter element is naturally located within the energy-gathering chamber and in contact with the heat storage medium. Therefore, the opening adjustment device must have a drive shaft that passes through the flange of the heating unit 2 or the inner liner wall, requiring sealing considerations. The shutter 802 cooperates with the energy-gathering chamber 7. The inner tank 1 is provided with an exhaust hole 101, so Figure 1The inner tank does not need to be pressurized. The outer surface of the inner tank 1 is wrapped with an insulation layer 18, and a drain port 15 is provided at the bottom. When the water heater needs to be repaired or moved, the heat storage medium in the inner tank can be removed through the drain port. Of course, the drain port 15 is not a necessary feature, as the user can remove the heat storage medium in the inner tank in other ways. The heat exchanger 3 includes four interfaces, two of which are connected to the water heater's water inlet 12 and water outlet 13, and the other two are connected to the circulation port 10 and the circulation port 2 9. Figure 1 In the figure, both circulation terminals 1 and 2 are located on the flange of the heating unit 2. The water inlet of circulation terminal 1 10 is located at the bottom of the energy-gathering chamber, and the water outlet of circulation terminal 2 passes through the energy-gathering chamber and connects to the inner tank. A pump 4 is located between the heat exchanger 3 and circulation terminal 2.

[0042] Figure 1 The working method of the water heater with this structure is: when the user uses hot water, tap water enters the water heater from the water inlet 12, flows through the water flow sensing unit 6, the heat exchanger 3, and flows out through the water outlet 13 in sequence. This path is the tap water heating channel, which does not pass through the inner tank, nor does it come into direct contact with the heat storage medium in the inner tank. The tap water is heated by heat exchange through the heat exchanger 3. The heat exchanger 3 is only a heat exchanger and does not generate heat energy itself. Its heat energy comes from the heat storage medium in the inner tank or the energy storage bin. The heat storage medium is extracted from the energy storage bin 7 or the inner tank 1 by the pump 4, and the heat energy is transferred to the tap water through the heat exchanger 3. Combined with Figure 1 and Figure 3 , Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A partial enlarged view of the position of the opening adjustment device 8 shown in FIG. Figure 3 The state is that the user is using hot water and the heat exchange cycle is in progress, so at this time the shutter 802 closes the energy-gathering bin water inlet 701 to prevent convection between the energy-gathering bin and the inner tank. Figure 3 The arrows in the figure indicate the water flow during the heat exchange cycle. Hot water in the inner tank 1 enters the energy-gathering chamber 7 through the energy-gathering chamber inlet / outlet 702 at the top of the energy-gathering chamber. After flowing through the energy-gathering chamber, it enters the circulation port 1 10, the heat exchanger 3, the pump 4, and the circulation port 2 9. It then returns to the inner tank through the inner tank return port 903, forming the hot water circuit for heat exchange. The heating unit 2 performs a secondary heating process on the hot water entering the energy-gathering chamber inlet / outlet 702, raising the temperature of the hot water entering the heat exchanger 3 and offsetting the effect of the heat exchange temperature difference. Without the energy-gathering chamber, if hot water is directly drawn from the inner tank, the temperature difference will cause the water in the inner tank to be slightly lower, thus preventing the water from reaching bathing temperature. For example, if the inner tank temperature is 60 degrees Celsius, the tap water heated by heat exchange may not reach 40 degrees Celsius. With the energy-gathering chamber, the 60-degree water is heated by a secondary heating process, raising the temperature of the hot water entering the heat exchanger to 70 or 80 degrees Celsius. The tap water temperature after heat exchange can reach above 50 degrees Celsius. Therefore, in this heat exchange scheme, it is very necessary to use the energy-gathering chamber to perform two-stage heating of the heat storage medium in the inner tank.

[0043] The circulating heat exchange channel is composed of the circulating end 10, the heat exchanger 3, the pump 4, and the circulating end 2 9. The pump 4 can be set at any position in the circulating heat exchange channel, but it is better to set the pump 4 at the water outlet of the heat exchanger because the hot water has transferred most of the heat energy to the tap water. The water outlet of the heat exchanger flows out cold water or warm water. The pump should not be subjected to high temperature, which is beneficial to its service life. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The connecting pipe 1 16 and the connecting pipe 2 17 shown may not be needed in actual products. For example, the two interfaces of the heat exchanger 3 can be directly connected to the circulation end 10 and the circulation end 2 9. Figure 2 and Figure 3 All Figure 1 A partial enlarged view of the location of the opening adjustment device 8, Figure 2 This is the state where the heating unit 2 heats the heat storage medium in the inner tank. The arrow in the figure indicates the direction of liquid flow at this time. At this time, the hole on the shield 802 coincides with the water inlet 701 of the energy storage bin, so the bottom of the energy storage bin is connected to the bottom of the inner tank. Figure 1 The energy storage tank water inlet and outlet 702 is always connected to the top of the inner tank. When the heating unit 2 is heating, when the average temperature in the energy storage tank is higher than the average temperature in the inner tank 1, the pressure at the bottom of the inner tank is greater than the pressure at the bottom of the energy storage tank, thereby continuously pressing the water in the inner tank into the energy storage tank through the energy storage tank water inlet 701, and continuously squeezing the hot water in the energy storage tank into the inner tank from the energy storage tank water inlet and outlet 702 at the top. This process is circulated continuously until the water in the inner tank is heated to the set temperature. Figure 3 The figure shows the state where the user is using hot water. At this time, the water heater heats the tap water through the heat exchanger 3, and the opening adjustment device 8 controls the connecting hole at the bottom of the energy storage tank to close. As shown in the figure, the stepper motor 801 controls the shutter 802 to open. Figure 2 The heat exchanger 3 is rotated at an angle, and the energy storage tank water inlet 701 is sealed. Therefore, when pump 4 is operating, it can only draw hot water from the top of the inner tank through the energy storage tank inlet and outlet 702 at the top of the energy storage tank. The water then flows through the energy storage tank, circulation end 10, heat exchanger 3, pump 4, circulation end 2 9, and finally enters the bottom of the inner tank through the inner tank return port 903. The heating unit 2 heats the hot water entering the energy storage tank from the top of the inner tank. If the water heater outlet temperature is too high, the opening adjustment device 8 can control the opening of the energy storage tank water inlet 701, causing pump 4 to draw some lower-temperature water from the bottom of the inner tank into the energy storage tank. High-temperature water enters the top of the energy storage tank, while low-temperature water enters the bottom. This is the control of the ratio of high and low-temperature heat storage media entering the energy storage tank as described in the claims. After a certain proportion of low-temperature water is mixed in, the temperature of the hot water flowing through the heat exchanger 3 is lowered, and the temperature of the tap water heated by the heat exchanger 3 is reduced. Of course, it is also possible to adjust the water outlet temperature of the water heater by adjusting the power of the heating unit, but this will reduce the hot water output of the water heater.

[0044] Scaling of traditional storage water heaters is a major industry problem. A large amount of scale accumulates in the water tank, affecting water hygiene and the life of the electric heating tubes. It also increases energy consumption and reduces the effective capacity of the water heater, bringing various adverse effects. Figure 1 The water heater shown does not directly use the hot water in the inner tank 1, but only uses it for energy storage. After filling once, only a small amount of evaporated water needs to be added. Therefore, the amount of water added to the inner tank during its entire life cycle is extremely limited, not even as much as the daily water consumption of an ordinary water storage water heater. The scale and sediment contained in this small amount of water can be ignored. In addition, the inner tank can also use a scale-free heat storage medium such as pure water or oil, which is completely free of scale and sediment. Therefore, Figure 1 The components of the structural inner tank, heating unit, and circulating heat exchange channel shown are all scale-free. Since the tap water side of the heat exchanger has a low temperature and a fast flow rate, it is not conducive to the formation and deposition of scale. Therefore, although the tap water side cannot completely eliminate the formation of scale, it is very slight. Compared horizontally, it is comparable to the scaling of the plate heat exchanger of the wall-mounted boiler and the cast aluminum heater. In addition, the amount of scale on the tap water side of the heat exchanger is small, and it is running water. Unlike traditional water storage tanks, there will not be a large amount of scale accumulation leading to bacterial growth, and there will be no water pollution caused by dead water areas in the inner tank. Therefore, the use of the water heater of the present invention is more hygienic than traditional electric storage water heaters.

[0045] Figure 1 The water heater shown uses an open inner tank. Since it does not need to withstand water pressure, it can be blow-molded with plastic. It uses heat-resistant and environmentally friendly PP material. It is not only lightweight and low-cost, but also corrosion-resistant. It does not require magnesium rods, which greatly saves resources, reduces labor and material costs, and extends its service life. There is also the risk of explosion in pressurized inner tanks. Although the probability of such risks is very low, it occurs every year and there is a certain danger. The non-pressurized inner tank completely eliminates such risks. This type of blow-molded inner tank has been verified and tested for a long time in the solar energy industry. For example, Huangming solar water heaters almost all use PP plastic inner tanks. The water temperature of solar water heaters generally reaches 100 degrees in summer. When the steam temperature in the inner tank is 120 degrees when it is empty, its working environment is harsher than that of electric storage water heaters. Therefore, there is no problem in using it in the water heater of this utility model. In addition to the advantages mentioned above, the open inner tank is also safer and does not pose an explosion risk. However, it is also possible for the water heater of this utility model to use a closed inner tank, such as Figure 4 、 Figure 15 The structure shown adopts a closed inner liner, but the inner liner is generally made of metal when a pressure-bearing inner liner is used, which will lose the benefits of the non-pressure-bearing inner liner mentioned above.

[0046] Figures 1 to 3The opening adjustment device 8 shown in the figure is composed of a stepper motor 801 and a shutter 802, but it does not necessarily have to use a stepper motor 801 as a driving element. For example, an ordinary motor, a servo or an electromagnet can also be used as a driving element. Although ordinary motors cannot measure the angle of shaft rotation, and servos and electromagnets can only adjust fixed angles or strokes, they can indeed achieve some of the functions of this application. The opening adjustment device 8 shown in the figure uses the rotation of the shutter 802 to adjust the opening of the connecting hole on the energy-gathering bin 7, but the same effect can also be achieved by using a push-pull linear movement method. The pump 4 can be an adjustable speed pump or a non-adjustable speed pump. Since the opening adjustment device 8 of this application can adjust the temperature of the outlet water, a fixed speed pump is sufficient.

[0047] In all the drawings of this application, the heating unit 2 is drawn in the style of an electric heating tube, but it is entirely possible to use other heaters, such as a light wave heater, a cast aluminum heater, an electromagnetic heater, etc. If electromagnetic heating is used, the electromagnetic coil is on the outside of the inner tank, and a piece of stainless steel heating is set inside the energy gathering chamber, which is similar to an induction cooker where the heating pot is installed in the energy gathering chamber. The energy gathering chamber can be adjusted accordingly according to its shape and size.

[0048] Figure 1 Only the temperature sensor 14 is shown at the water outlet 13. In actual products, the inner tank 1 must have a temperature sensor; otherwise, the temperature of the heat storage medium inside the tank cannot be determined, resulting in malfunction. It is also best to install a temperature sensor in the energy storage chamber 7 to prevent excessive temperatures therein. The location of the temperature sensor in a water heater is well known, so the schematic diagram does not include it. Only certain features unique to this application are highlighted, and the power cord, etc., are not shown.

[0049] The water flow sensing unit 6, the temperature sensor 14, the pump 4, the heating unit 2, and the opening adjustment device 8 are connected to the control unit 5 through wires. Under special circumstances, some components can also be wirelessly connected using electromagnetic waves and mechanical waves. The control unit 5 controls the pump, the opening adjustment device, and the heating unit as the actuators according to the working mode, water flow state, and temperature parameters set by the water heater.

[0050] Figure 1The structure has a poor effect on instant heating of tap water. This is because the hot water flows into the inner tank through the inner tank return port 903 after heat exchange and cannot flow directly back into the energy-gathering chamber 7. Due to the temperature difference in heat exchange, the temperature of the hot water flowing out after heat exchange must be higher than the tap water inlet temperature. Depending on the performance of the heat exchanger, the heat exchange temperature difference under normal bathing flow varies from 6 to 30 degrees. The water in the energy-gathering chamber heated by the heating unit 2 heats the tap water through the heat exchanger on the one hand, and the warm water after heat exchange flows into the bottom of the inner tank to heat the entire tank water on the other hand. This is equivalent to the heating unit 2 instantly heating the tap water on the one hand, and also allocating a part of the power to heat the inner tank, so the instant heating effect is not good. In order to solve the above problems, it can be done through Figure 4 structure to solve it. Figure 4 exist Figure 1 On the basis of the addition of flow distribution device 29 and return pipe 20, the structure of the flow distribution device can refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 . The flow distribution device can distribute the ratio of the outlet water of the heat exchanger 3 entering the inner tank 1 and the energy collecting chamber 7. For example, in the instant heating mode, the opening adjustment device controls the energy collecting chamber water inlet 701 to be closed, and at the same time controls the flow distribution device 29 to close the inner tank water return port 903. All the outlet water of the heat exchanger 3 returns to the energy collecting chamber through the energy collecting chamber water return port 904. At this time, it is exactly the same as the way the wall-mounted boiler heats tap water. Soon the temperature in the energy collecting chamber will reach an equilibrium point, and the tap water will completely absorb the heat energy generated by the heating unit 2 to achieve an instant heating effect. Constant temperature water outlet can be achieved by controlling the power of the heating unit or adjusting the opening of the energy collecting chamber water inlet 701. The opening adjustment device 8 can control the ratio of the water at the circulation end 2 9 entering the inner tank and the energy collecting chamber, such as Figure 10 、 Figure 11 As shown, the inner tank return water port 903 can also be regarded as a connecting hole on the energy gathering chamber, and its opening is also controlled by the opening adjustment device 8. The two figures show two extreme states of all flowing into the inner tank and all flowing into the energy gathering chamber. The intermediate state is to adjust the ratio of each flow rate, and its function is to perform constant temperature regulation on the water outlet of the water heater.

[0051] Figure 1 and Figure 4 The energy storage chamber is close to the top of the inner tank 1, and can also be used Figure 5 and Figure 6 The short energy storage structure shown in the figure, both structures use the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the energy storage chamber to circulate and heat the heat storage medium in the inner tank. The convection flow rate may be relatively slow, resulting in high temperature in the energy storage chamber, which is not only detrimental to the life of the heating unit 2, but also may cause large heating noise. If this problem exists in the actual product, you can use Figure 17 The energy storage structure shown is a Figure 1 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 The water inlet 701 of the energy gathering bin is lengthened, and the size of the baffle 802 and the corresponding holes are also lengthened. When the holes on the baffle are aligned with the holes on the energy gathering bin, the convection space between the energy gathering bin and the inner liner is very large, which does not affect the convection heat exchange between the energy gathering bin and the inner liner at all. The energy gathering bin will not generate heating noise caused by high-temperature boiling, and even if there is any, it will be very small. Figure 17 This is a partial enlargement of the energy storage chamber. In the figure, the hole in the shield aligns perfectly with the energy storage chamber water inlet 701. However, the name "energy storage chamber water inlet" is misleading. When the heating unit 2 is operating, the heat storage medium is heated by natural convection through this hole, flowing in and out. When the stepper motor 801 drives the shield 802 to close the energy storage chamber water inlet 701, the energy storage chamber and the inner tank are relatively isolated, forming an independent heating space.

[0052] Optionally, the connecting holes on the energy-gathering bin 7 are respectively arranged at the bottom and the top of the energy-gathering bin; the connecting hole at the bottom is the energy-gathering bin water inlet 701, which is used to absorb the heat storage medium from the bottom of the inner tank; the connecting hole at the top is the energy-gathering bin water inlet and outlet 702, which is used to input the heat storage medium heated in the energy-gathering bin into the inner tank or absorb the heat storage medium from the top of the inner tank into the energy-gathering bin; the opening adjustment device 8 can at least adjust the opening of the energy-gathering bin water inlet. In almost all the schematic diagrams of this application, the connecting holes of the energy-gathering bin are arranged at the top and the bottom, and the height of the energy-gathering bin extends to the top of the inner tank. The shield 802 only needs to adjust the connecting hole at the bottom of the energy-gathering bin; the height of the energy-gathering bin does not reach the top of the inner tank, that is, it can be like Figures 5 to 9 As shown, shields are set on the top and bottom of the energy storage tank, which can also be Figure 12 As shown, only the bottom is provided with a shield; the function of these connecting holes has been introduced above and will not be repeated here. However, the top connecting holes are not required, and the function can also be achieved by only providing the connecting holes on the side walls, such as Figure 17 As shown, if the energy storage bin of this structure can be extended to the top of the inner tank 1, the hot water pipe 19 may not be needed. It is only necessary to extend the water inlet 701 of the energy storage bin to the top, and the shield 802 maintains sufficient holes on the top to connect with the inner tank when closed. Therefore, the connecting hole on the energy storage bin can be made into various forms. Its purpose is to allow the heating unit 2 in the energy storage bin to heat the inner tank when it is open, and to make the energy storage bin similar to an instant heating body when it is closed. It can heat the heat storage medium entering the energy storage bin from the inner tank in two stages and instantly heat the water entering the energy storage bin from the circulation end 2 9. In some structures, the outlet water temperature can be controlled by adjusting the opening, etc. As long as one or more of the above functions can be achieved, it will be sufficient.

[0053] Optionally, the water suction port of the circulation end 10 is arranged in the energy storage bin 7. Figures 1 to 4 and Figure 6As shown, the water inlet of the circulation end 10 is at the bottom of the energy storage tank, and Figure 5 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 、 Figure 9 As shown, the water intake of circulation end 10 is located at the top of the energy-gathering chamber. Its position is affected by the water entering the chamber. If water enters from the bottom of the chamber, the water intake must be located at the top. Conversely, if water enters from the top, the water intake must be located at the bottom. If water enters from both the top and bottom of the chamber, the water intake position is opposite to the dominant flow rate. In short, water entering and exiting the chamber must be located at both ends of the heating unit 2, respectively, so that the heating unit can evenly heat the water flowing through it. Based on this principle, the position of the water intake of circulation end 10 in the chamber is determined. The reason for placing the water intake of circulation end 1 inside the chamber is to utilize the chamber to achieve instant heating and to heat the hot water in the inner tank in a second stage, rapidly raising the temperature of the water entering the heat exchanger 3. The temperature in the chamber can also be rapidly changed by adjusting the ratio of high and low temperature water entering, thereby achieving constant temperature control of the water outlet from the water heater. If the water inlet of the circulation end 10 is in the inner tank, the temperature change is very slow due to the large capacity of the inner tank, and the above effect cannot be achieved. Therefore, the water inlet of the circulation end 1 is placed in the energy storage tank, which can maximize the performance of the water heater. However, this solution can also be modified, although the effect is worse, but it can also be used, such as Figure 14 As shown, the water suction port of the circulation end 10 is set at the upper part of the inner tank. Figure 14 In the embodiment, the water heated in the energy-gathering chamber flows from the energy-gathering chamber water inlet and outlet 702 to the top of the inner tank 1, and the circulation end 10 draws in hot water from the top of the inner tank. Although the water layer above the inner tank also has a larger capacity and heats slower than the energy-gathering chamber, and also dissipates heat from the water in the lower part of the inner tank, further slowing the heating speed and losing the instantaneous heating power of the heating unit 2, it is at least much faster than heating the entire tank with hot water. A diversion structure can also be provided on the energy-gathering chamber water inlet and outlet 702 to allow the hot water to flow through the circulation end 10 before diffusing into the inner tank, which will have a better effect. In short, it is a better choice to set the water intake of the circulation end 10 in the energy-gathering chamber, but it is not a necessary feature to implement this patent. Other variations can also be used and are also within the scope of protection of this patent.

[0054] A hot water pipe 19 can also be added, and the two ends of the hot water pipe are connected to the top of the inner tank 1 and the energy collecting chamber 7 respectively. When the height of the energy collecting chamber does not reach the top of the inner tank, a hot water pipe 19 must be added to lead the water on the top of the inner tank into the energy collecting chamber. If the energy collecting chamber is made shorter, the volume of the energy collecting chamber can be reduced, the speed of instant heating can be increased, and the heat dissipation area can be reduced. If electromagnetic heating is used as the heating unit of the utility model, the energy collecting chamber will be very short. Figure 5 、 Figure 6As shown, the hot water pipe 19 can be used to introduce the water in the inner tank to the top or bottom of the energy-gathering chamber. The hot water pipe 19 can be used to only introduce water from the inner tank to the energy-gathering chamber, or it can be used to simultaneously input the hot water in the inner tank into the inner tank. Figure 12 It has two uses. Figure 12 In the hot water pipe 19, an insulation layer can be added to maintain the high temperature of the hot water pipe, increase the chimney effect, and make the circulation more intense when the heating unit 2 heats the heat storage medium in the inner tank. The so-called chimney effect is actually the force generated by the pressure difference caused by fluids of different densities at a certain height. The higher the height, the greater the temperature difference and the stronger the effect. In summary, the hot water pipe 19 is only used when the energy storage bin is not high enough, and is not a necessary feature of the present invention. For example, Figure 1 and Figure 4 The structure shown avoids the use of this hot water pipe.

[0055] like Figure 4 As shown, a flow distribution device 29 can also be added, which is connected to the opening adjustment device 8 and is arranged on the second circulation end 9 to adjust the ratio of the heat storage medium flowing from the second circulation end into the energy storage bin and the inner tank. Figure 4 The water heater structure shown in Figure 1 The flow distribution device 29 and the return pipe 20 are added to the structure. Its main benefit is that it can heat the tap water more effectively, and all the work of the heating unit 2 can be used to heat the tap water. The secondary benefit is brought by the return pipe 20. When the energy storage uses a mixture of high and low temperature water for constant temperature control, the mixed water flows through the heating unit 2, which will reduce the temperature of the heating unit and improve its working environment. Figure 1 In that structure, if you want to absorb low-temperature water from the bottom of the inner tank to lower the water temperature of the water heater, the high-temperature water absorbed from the top of the energy-gathering chamber will become less. Since the low-temperature water is directly absorbed from the bottom of the energy-gathering chamber by the circulation end 10, it cannot take away the heat energy generated by the heating unit 2. The heat energy generated by the heating unit 2 will be absorbed by the reduced hot water at the top, and the water temperature will rise. Figure 4 Mixing medium, high, and low-temperature water before flowing through the heating unit is completely different. The more low-temperature water is mixed, the lower the temperature of the heating unit, while the more low-temperature water is mixed, the higher the temperature of the heating unit. Of course, in terms of adjusting the water heater's outlet temperature, it is also possible to adjust the temperature by reducing the power of heating unit 2. This is the best solution for instant heating, but it will reduce the output of hot water when the inlet water temperature is low and the heat storage medium in the inner tank needs to be used for auxiliary heating, which is not a good solution. Figure 10 and Figure 11 yes Figure 5A partial enlarged view of the flow distribution device shows the inner tank return port 903 and the energy collection chamber return port 904 located on the second circulation terminal 9. A sleeve 901 and a spring 902 are also located within the second circulation terminal 9, forming the flow distribution device 29. The sleeve 901 is pressed downward by the rotation of the opening adjustment device 8 and rebounds upward under the action of the spring 902. Figure 10 The sleeve 901 is at the extreme position at the top. At this time, the inner tank return water port 903 is closed, and the energy storage bin return water port 904 is fully opened. As shown by the arrows in the figure, all the water at the circulation end 2 9 flows into the energy storage bin. Figure 11 The casing 901 is at the extreme position at the bottom. At this time, the inner tank return port 903 is fully open and the energy storage tank return port 904 is completely closed. As shown by the arrow in the figure, the water at the circulation end 2 9 flows into the inner tank 1. When the casing is in the middle position between these two extremes, the heat storage medium at the circulation end 2 9 flows to the energy storage tank and the inner tank at the same time. The flow rate is greater in whichever return port is opened. When the water heater is in the instant heating mode, the flow distribution device 29 is in Figure 10 The hot water flows back to the energy storage tank after passing through the heat exchanger. At this time, it is similar to the wall-mounted heating method. The temperature of the hot water in the energy storage tank will quickly reach a balance, so that the work of the heating unit 2 is fully used to heat the tap water through the heat exchanger. Figure 7 The structure of another flow distribution device is shown. Referring to the partially enlarged view thereof, this flow distribution device includes a three-way seat 35, a slider 34, and a clamping ring 36. One of the three holes of the three-way seat 35 is connected to the circulation end 2 9, and the other two holes are connected to the energy collecting bin 7 and the inner tank 1 respectively. The slider 34 is assembled on the three-way seat through the clamping ring 36. The slider moves left and right under the action of the baffle 802 of the opening adjustment device 8, thereby realizing the ratio of the heat storage medium at the distribution circulation end 2 to the inner tank and the energy collecting bin. The flow distribution device is a proportional valve, and other structures can be used. The structures shown in this application are all driven by the existing opening adjustment device 8, and there is no need to add another driving device. Of course, the independent driving solution is also within the scope of protection of this application. The flow distribution device is not a necessary feature of this application. For example, Figure 1 The structure shown does not have a flow distribution device, but can still achieve the main purpose of this application.

[0056] Optionally, the opening adjustment device 8 includes a stepper motor 801 and a shield 802, wherein the shield is connected to the energy collection chamber, and the shaft of the stepper motor is connected to the shield. The stepper motor drives the shield to move according to the working mode and working state of the water heater to adjust the opening of the corresponding connecting hole of the energy collection chamber. Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the shutter 802 is directly connected to the stepper motor 801. In actual products, the torque must be taken into consideration, and a reduction gear set is provided between the stepper motor and the shutter to amplify the force of the stepper motor, so that the shutter 802 can rotate even if it is slightly stuck. Figures 1 to 4The middle shield is only set at the bottom of the energy-gathering bin 7, and is used to adjust the opening of the energy-gathering bin water inlet 701. Figures 5 to 9 As shown, shield plates 802 are provided on the top and bottom of the energy storage tank, which can adjust the opening of the water inlet 701 and the water inlet and outlet 702 of the energy storage tank at the same time. Figures 5 to 9 In the structure, the shields 802 at the top and bottom of the energy collection chamber are in a closed state when the water heater is using hot water. Figure 8 As shown in the partial enlarged view, the water heater is in the instant heating state. The arrows in the figure are water flow indicators. The shutters of the opening adjustment device are all in the closed state. The pump 4 is working, the heating unit 2 is working, and the hot water on the top of the energy-gathering bin enters the circulation end 10, passes through the connecting pipe 2 17, the heat exchanger 3, the pump 4, the connecting pipe 16, and then flows into the bottom of the energy-gathering bin from the circulation end 2 9. The heating and heat exchange are continuously circulated until the heat exchange temperature difference is large enough that the tap water can completely absorb the heat energy generated by the heating unit 2, and the temperature of the energy-gathering bin reaches equilibrium. In this state, the inner tank will neither be heated nor the water in the inner tank will be used. Its working method is similar to that of a wall-mounted boiler heating tap water. Figure 9 The water heater is in the auxiliary heating state. The arrows in the figure are water flow indicators. The shutter is also in the closed state. The pump 4 is working, the heating unit 2 is working, and the water at the top of the inner tank enters the bottom of the energy-gathering bin from the hot water pipe 19. After being heated by the heating unit 2, it flows into the circulation end 10, passes through the connecting pipe 2 17, the heat exchanger 3, the pump 4, the connecting pipe 16 in turn, and then flows into the bottom of the inner tank 1 from the flow distribution device 29 installed on the circulation end 2 9, and the heating and heat exchange are continuously circulated. Figure 7 The heating unit is heating the heat storage medium in the inner tank, and the upper and lower shutters 802 of the opening adjustment device are both in the open state. The arrows in the figure are the water flow indicators of natural convection. Figures 5 to 9 It can be seen that since the height of the energy storage tank does not reach the top of the inner tank, a shield 802 is set on the top of the energy storage tank to prevent the hot water in the energy storage tank from leaking into the inner tank from the energy storage tank inlet and outlet 702 when heating tap water, or from absorbing water from the middle part of the inner tank into the energy storage tank. Figure 12 The structure has no shield on the top of the energy-gathering bin because there is no energy-gathering bin water inlet and outlet 702 on the top of the energy-gathering bin. When the heating unit 2 heats the heat storage medium in the inner tank 1, the water at the bottom of the inner tank enters the bottom of the energy-gathering bin 7, and after being heated, enters the top of the inner tank from the hot water pipe 19. A heat-insulating layer can also be added to the hot water pipe 19 to maintain the high temperature inside the pipe, making the chimney effect stronger. Figure 12 The hot water pipe diameter can be appropriately increased to minimize water resistance. The opening adjustment device 8 must be able to adjust the opening of the connecting hole on the energy collection chamber according to the operating mode of the water heater. This necessarily requires a driving element and a blocking element. There are a variety of possible structures, all of which are described above and fall within the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0057] An open inner container can be used, and the inner container 1 is provided with an exhaust hole 101 or an exhaust pipe 23 connected to the atmosphere; it also includes a liquid level sensing unit 27, which is provided on the inner container 1 and connected to the control unit 5; the liquid level sensing unit can use any of resistance, capacitance, ultrasound, and electromagnetic methods to sense the liquid level in the inner container. Figure 6 As shown, the inner container is provided with an exhaust hole 101, and the liquid level sensing unit 27 is connected to the inner container 1 via a connecting pipe 28. Connecting pipe 28 can be made of a plastic tube or a rubber tube, which can act as a barrier to electric shock. If the liquid level sensing unit leaks abnormally, the high resistance of the slender water column in connecting pipe 28 limits the current to a safe range. Figure 13 The exhaust pipe 23 is used to connect to the atmosphere. This method does not require additional exhaust holes on the inner tank 1. It is directly integrated on the flange of the heating unit 2. The structure is more compact and reasonable. Generally, most actual products will adopt this structure. Figure 6 The liquid level sensing unit 27 shown, if the liquid level is lower than the sensing position, the pump may inhale air when working, so when the liquid level is lower than the lowest position of the liquid level sensing unit, the pump cannot work and it is necessary to add heat storage medium. If the liquid level sensing unit 27 uses resistance sensing, this method cannot be used for non-conductive heat storage media such as oil or wax, but water is the most suitable heat storage medium in water heaters. The resistance sensing method has no moving parts and is simple and reliable. Capacitive sensing uses liquid as the medium between the two poles of a capacitor. When the medium is air or liquid, the capacitance is different, so the liquid level can be judged. Capacitive sensing does not require Figure 6 The connecting pipe 28 shown in . Ultrasonic sensing is based on the same principle as radar. It can be installed on the top of the inner tank. It transmits ultrasonic waves to the water surface of the inner tank and determines the height of the water level by receiving the reflected wave. Electromagnetic induction includes infrared sensing using electromagnetic waves and fixed magnetic fields generated by permanent magnets, combined with reed switches and Hall elements to sense liquid levels, such as float liquid level sensing, which are all widely used mature technologies. The following situations may also not have a liquid level sensing unit: when the pump can run idle without damage; when the heat storage medium in the inner tank will not decrease; when the heat storage device has an automatic refill function, such as an open inner tank with a float or expansion tank, etc. Therefore, the liquid level sensing unit 27 is not a necessary feature, and of course an open inner tank is not a necessary feature. As Figure 4As shown, a pressure-bearing inner tank is used. By unscrewing the threaded cap 31 on the exhaust hole 101 of the inner tank, the heat storage medium can be added to the inner tank 1 from here. The bottom end of the exhaust hole 101 extends a certain distance from the top of the inner tank. When water is added, the air at the top of the inner tank cannot be discharged, and the stored air serves as a compression space for the inner tank heat storage medium to heat and expand. At the same time, a pressure relief valve 15 is also provided on the drainage end 15 to prevent excessive pressure in the inner tank. After filling with the heat storage medium, tighten the threaded cap 31. At this time, the inner tank is a closed system. Even if the heat storage medium is water, there is no need to consider evaporation at all, and no liquid level sensing is required. As long as there is no water leakage or drainage, there is no need to consider water replenishment. Figure 4 The structure can be used to inject water from the exhaust hole 101, and the air in the water pump circulation channel can also be removed. It is only necessary to set the default position of the opening adjustment device 8 to the instant heating mode. At this time, the circulation end 2 9 is only connected to the return pipe 20, and the return pipe 20 is much higher than the water inlet of the circulation end 10. When water is injected, water will enter the heat exchanger 3 and the pump 4 from the circulation end 1, and all the air therein will be discharged from the return pipe 20, so that trapped air will not be generated and the pump 4 will not lose its water pumping capacity.

[0058] like Figure 6 、 Figure 13 、 Figure 15 As shown, a valve 22 can also be added, one end of which is connected to the tap water heating channel and the other end is connected to the circulating heat exchange channel or the inner tank so that the air at the suction end of the pump 4 can be removed when water is added to the inner tank. The purpose of the valve 22 is to fill the inner tank 1 with water. A manual valve or an automatic valve can be used. The manual valve is an ordinary mechanical valve, and the automatic valve can be a solenoid valve or a mechanical valve driven by a stepping motor. Figure 6 As shown, one end of valve 22 is connected to the water inlet 12, and the other end is connected to the circulating heat exchange channel where pump 4 is located via a water filling pipe 25. One end of valve 22 can also be connected to the inner liner. Depending on other structural considerations, it is sufficient to ensure that air can be removed from the suction end of pump 4 during water filling. For example, if circulation end 1 and circulation end 2 are not at the same level in the inner liner or energy collection chamber, preferably with a significant height difference, adding water from the inner liner can also remove air from the circulating heat exchange channel. As previously mentioned, the inner liner can also be filled with water directly from the exhaust port 101, so a water supply valve is not a necessary feature of this application.

[0059] like Figure 12As shown, an expansion tank 24 can also be added, connected to the inner liner. The expansion tank serves a triple purpose: accommodating heat storage medium that overflows from the inner liner due to heating and expansion, replenishing the inner liner with heat storage medium, and reducing evaporation of the inner liner's heat storage medium. Without an expansion tank, excess heat storage medium from the open inner liner after heating and expansion would be discharged through the exhaust port 101 or exhaust pipe 23. After the inner liner's heat storage medium cools and contracts, it would not be able to flow back into the inner liner. However, with the addition of an expansion tank 24, excess heat storage medium from heating and expansion enters the expansion tank and then flows back into the inner liner after cooling and contracting. If the expansion tank's volume is increased, heat storage medium lost through evaporation from the inner liner can be replenished over a considerable period of time. If the expansion tank is thermally insulated from the inner liner, the heat storage medium in the expansion tank is cold, and the steam heated by the inner liner or the hot water that expands will be cooled upon entering the expansion tank, significantly reducing evaporation. In short, after adding the expansion tank, the water heater of the present application can achieve the goal of only adding water once during the entire use cycle, thereby reducing the trouble of the user to add water. Of course, if the valve 22 and the liquid level sensing unit 27 are added, and the valve is an automatic valve, it will not increase the trouble for the user, but it will increase the failure rate and cost.

[0060] Example 2

[0061] The structure introduced in the first embodiment does not consider directly using the heat storage medium in the inner tank 1 , and only exchanges the heat energy therein through the heat exchanger 3 . Figure 15 This is a structural diagram of the second embodiment of the present application, which not only includes the heat exchange function of the first embodiment, but also can directly use the water in the inner tank 1. When the water in the inner tank is directly used, the heating unit 2 in the energy-gathering cavity can also perform two-stage heating on the outlet water, which greatly increases the capacity. Figure 15 The structure requires that the inner tank must be pressure-bearing, and if the hot water in the inner tank is used directly, it will also cause scale problems.

[0062] like Figure 15As shown, a valve 22 is installed on the water inlet 12. This valve is a reversing valve or a proportional valve. A reversing valve has two water outlets, and water can be discharged from one of them at any time, but not both at the same time. A proportional valve has two water outlets, and water can be discharged from only one of them at any time, or both simultaneously, with the flow rate ratio of the two outlets adjusted. Valve 12 has two water outlets, one connected to the heat exchanger 3, and the other connected to the circulating heat exchange channel via a water filling pipe 25. The valve 22 connects to the heat exchanger 3 through the heat exchanger 3 and then to the water outlet 13. The water flow sensor unit 6 is located between the heat exchanger 3 and the water outlet 13. An outlet pipe 26 connects the tap water outlet of the heat exchanger and the hot water inlet of the circulating heat exchanger. A one-way valve 33 is also installed on the circulating heat exchange channel to prevent water from the water filling pipe 25 from flowing directly into the water outlet pipe 26 without passing through the inner tank 1. Except for the structural changes described above, the other structures are exactly the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0063] When the valve 22 controls the water flow so that it does not pass through the water filling pipe 25, the flow path of the tap water is: the water inlet 12, the valve 22, the heat exchanger 3, the water flow sensing unit 6, and the water outlet 13. At this time, it is exactly the same as in Example 1, where the pump 4 is used to extract the hot water in the energy-gathering chamber 7 or the inner tank 1 and heat the tap water through the heat exchanger 3. At this time, the tap water will not flow from the outlet pipe 26 into the inner tank 1, because the water in the inner tank 1 is already full and no more water can be added; at this time, the water in the inner tank will not flow through the outlet pipe 26 to the water outlet 13, because there is no air or water to replenish the inner tank. Once water flows out of the inner tank, negative pressure will be formed and it will not flow out. Therefore, the outlet pipe 26 at this time is equivalent to being disconnected. Therefore, when the valve 22 controls the water flow so that it does not pass through 25, the heating method and effect are exactly the same as in Example 1.

[0064] When the valve 22 controls the water flow to only pass through the water filling pipe 25, the flow path of the tap water is: water inlet end 12, valve 22, water filling pipe 25, pump 4, inner tank 1, hot water pipe 19, energy collecting chamber 7, circulation end 10, water outlet pipe 26, water flow sensing unit 6, water outlet end 13. At this time, it is similar to an ordinary dual-mode fast-heating water heater. The water at the top of the inner tank enters the energy collecting chamber through the hot water pipe 19 and can be heated by the heating unit 2 before flowing out. Assuming that the temperature of the inner tank is only 20 degrees at this time, water of more than 40 degrees can also be output. The water filling pipe 25 can be directly connected to the inner tank, or it can be connected to any other position of the circulating heat exchange channel. As long as the water flowing through the water filling pipe 25 can enter the inner tank, it is sufficient. From the perspective of hot water utilization, entering the bottom of the inner tank is a better choice. Correspondingly, one end of the water outlet pipe 26 can also be directly connected to the inner tank. Considering the hot water utilization rate, if it is to be connected to the inner tank, it is better to connect it directly to the top of the inner tank. Of course, the best option is to connect it to the energy-gathering chamber or the circulating heat exchange channel. In this way, the energy-gathering chamber can be used to perform two-stage heating of the water in the inner tank, greatly improving the hot water output rate. If the water outlet pipe 26 is directly connected to the top of the inner tank, the energy-gathering chamber cannot be used to perform two-stage heating of the water in the inner tank before outputting it. Although the heating unit 2 can heat the water in the inner tank in this case, due to the large amount of water in the inner tank, the heating temperature rises very slowly, which is completely different from using the small volume of the energy-gathering chamber to achieve instant heating. In this case, the water in the inner tank 1 must reach bathing temperature. The outlet pipe 26 is installed relative to the filling pipe 25. It is necessary to ensure that the water in the filling pipe 25 does not flow directly into the outlet pipe 26. The hot water in the inner tank must enter the outlet pipe 26. This is also the reason for the installation of the one-way valve 33. Otherwise, some cold water will be directly output from the filling pipe 25 or the bottom of the inner tank 1 to the outlet pipe 26. The installation position of the one-way valve is also sufficient to ensure the above purpose and can be adjusted according to the actual structure.

[0065] The valve 22 can also control the water flow through the heat exchanger 3 and the water filling pipe 25 at the same time, and can also adjust the flow ratio between the two to achieve a constant temperature effect. When the valve 22 supplies water to the water filling pipe 25, in principle, the pump 4 does not work. The tap water passing through the heat exchanger 3 is cold water, which is mixed with the hot water flowing through the outlet pipe 26 to achieve a constant temperature effect.

[0066] The one-way valve 33 may allow a small amount of water to flow in the reverse direction to remove the air from the circulating heat exchange channel. A pressure relief device including a one-way valve may be provided on the water filling pipe 25 to protect the water in the inner tank 1 from being emptied and to prevent the inner tank pressure from being too high. This embodiment mainly combines heat exchange heating and direct heating organically. Heat exchange heating is usually used to reduce the formation of scale, and the use of running water is more hygienic. When the temperature of the inner tank drops to a point where it is impossible to output hot water of sufficient temperature through heat exchange, it is switched to directly using the hot water in the inner tank to achieve maximum hot water output. Through Example 1 and the schematic diagram and description of this embodiment, relevant deformation or extension changes can be easily made, all of which are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0067] Example 3

[0068] In the schematic diagrams of the previous two embodiments, the energy collecting chamber 7 is installed in the inner liner 1. This embodiment introduces a structure in which the energy collecting chamber is installed outside the inner liner. Figure 16 As shown, the energy bin water inlet 701 at the bottom of the energy bin and the water inlet and outlet 702 at the top of the energy bin are connected to the top and bottom of the inner tank respectively, and the hot and cold water heating cycle is carried out through the pressure difference generated by the temperature difference between the energy bin and the inner tank. When the temperature of the inner tank gradually rises, this heating cycle will weaken, so the diameter of the connection hole between the energy bin and the inner tank should be large enough to minimize resistance. Figure 16 The enlarged partial view A in the figure shows the shield 802 of the opening adjustment device 8, the flow distribution device 29, and the schematic diagram of the connection between the energy collection chamber water inlet 701, the inner tank water return port 903, and the inner tank. Aside from the minor changes made by moving the energy collection chamber to the outside, the structure is the same as that of the first embodiment. The various solutions of the two can be used in combination and will not be repeated here.

[0069] The above examples are not exhaustive of all structures and methods. All combinations of the above solutions, any solutions that can be easily thought of through this application, and any modified solutions are within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. An electric water heater, comprising an inner tank (1), a heating unit (2), a water flow sensing unit (6), a control unit (5), a temperature sensor (14), a water inlet (12), and a water outlet (13), characterized in that: It also includes a heat exchanger (3), a pump (4), an energy-gathering bin (7), an opening adjustment device (8), a circulation end 1 (10), and a circulation end 2 (9); the water inlet end (12), the heat exchanger (3), and the water outlet end (13) are connected in sequence to form a tap water heating channel, and the water flow sensing unit (6) is arranged on the tap water heating channel; the circulation end 1 (10), the heat exchanger (3), the pump (4), and the circulation end 2 (9) are connected together to form a circulating heat exchange channel; the heating unit (2) is arranged in the energy-gathering bin, and a A connecting hole is provided, the connecting hole being connected to the inner tank; the opening adjustment device (8) controls the opening of the corresponding connecting hole on the energy-gathering bin, thereby realizing one or more of the functions of the heating unit (2) heating the heat storage medium in the inner tank, instant heating of tap water, mixed heating, controlling the ratio of high and low temperature heat storage medium entering the energy-gathering bin, and controlling the ratio of the medium flowing from the circulation end 2 into the inner tank and the energy-gathering bin; the control unit (5) controls the working state of the heating unit, the pump and the opening adjustment device according to one or more of the working mode, water flow state and temperature of the water heater.

2. An electric water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The communicating holes on the energy-gathering bin are respectively arranged at the bottom and the top of the energy-gathering bin; the communicating hole at the bottom is the energy-gathering bin water inlet (701), which is used to absorb the heat storage medium from the bottom of the inner tank (1); the communicating hole at the top is the energy-gathering bin water inlet and outlet (702), which is used to input the heat storage medium heated in the energy-gathering bin into the inner tank (1) or to absorb the heat storage medium from the top of the inner tank into the energy-gathering bin; The opening adjustment device (8) can at least adjust the opening of the energy gathering bin water inlet (701).

3. An electric water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The water suction port of the circulation end 1 (10) is arranged in the energy gathering bin (7).

4. An electric water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a hot water pipe (19), the two ends of which are respectively connected to the top of the inner tank (1) and the energy gathering chamber (7).

5. The electric water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a flow distribution device (29), which is connected to the opening adjustment device (8) and is arranged on the second circulation end to adjust the ratio of the heat storage medium flowing from the second circulation end into the energy storage bin and the inner tank.

6. An electric water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The opening adjustment device (8) comprises a stepper motor (801) and a baffle (802), wherein the baffle is connected to the energy gathering bin, and the shaft of the stepper motor is connected to the baffle. The stepper motor drives the baffle to move according to the working mode and working state of the water heater to adjust the opening of the corresponding connecting hole of the energy gathering bin.

7. An electric water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner container (1) is provided with an exhaust hole (101) or an exhaust pipe (23) connected to the atmosphere; it also includes a liquid level sensing unit (27), which is arranged on the inner container (1) and connected to the control unit (5); the liquid level sensing unit can use any one of resistance, capacitance, ultrasound and electromagnetic to sense the liquid level in the inner container.

8. The electric water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a valve (22), one end of which is connected to the tap water heating channel, and the other end of which is connected to the circulating heat exchange channel or the inner tank so that air at the suction end of the pump (4) can be removed when water is injected into the inner tank.

9. An electric water heater according to claim 8, characterized in that: The valve (22) is a reversing valve or a proportional valve, the inner tank is a closed structure, and also includes a water outlet pipe (26); the valve is used to control the ratio of tap water flowing through the inner tank and the heat exchanger, and the water outlet pipe is used to directly output the hot water in the inner tank (1) to the water outlet end (13).

10. An electric water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes an expansion water tank, which is connected to the inner tank.

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