Water heater

Abstract

The utility model discloses a water heater which comprises a flow path assembly, a water inlet flow path and a water supply flow path, the flow path assembly comprises a heating flow path, a water inlet flow path and a water supply flow path, and the water inlet flow path and the water supply flow path are connected with the heating flow path; the water inlet valve is connected with the flow path assembly and is used for selectively controlling water inlet of the flow path assembly, and the water inlet valve is closed when power is lost; the drainage valve is connected with the flow path assembly, at least one part of fluid in the flow path assembly is drained when the drainage valve is opened, and the drainage valve is opened when the drainage valve is powered off. According to the water heater, the normally-closed water inlet valve and the normally-open water drainage valve are arranged, when the water heater loses power, most of water in the flow path assembly can be drained, the water is prevented from freezing and bursting a pipeline in the flow path assembly, the stability and safety of the water heater are improved, and the service life of the water heater is prolonged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of water heaters, and in particular to a water heater. Background Art

[0002] In order to prevent the water pipes of the internal heat exchanger of the gas water heater from bursting due to the freezing of water in the pipes when the ambient temperature is low, the existing technical solutions generally adopt the following four methods: electric heating antifreeze, gas heating antifreeze, mechanical antifreeze, and manual pressure relief valve drainage.

[0003] The first two antifreeze methods have low thermal efficiency and high energy consumption, and require continuous heating to maintain the water in the pipe in a liquid state, which consumes a lot of energy; mechanical antifreeze can only prevent cold air from backflowing from the exhaust pipe, and cannot prevent freezing caused by low ambient temperature; manual pressure relief valve drainage requires users to manually operate the pressure relief valve to drain water to achieve the antifreeze purpose, but in practice users often forget to drain the water. In low temperature weather, the internal water pipes of the gas water heater are frozen and cracked, and the water heater cannot be used. It is difficult to drain the water in the water pipes of the heat exchanger through the pressure relief valve drainage, and there is still a risk of the water pipes of the heat exchanger bursting due to the freezing of the water in the pipes. Utility Model Content

[0004] One object of the present application is to provide a water heater that optimizes the anti-freezing effect during power outages.

[0005] According to the water heater of the embodiment of the present application, it includes: a flow path assembly, the flow path assembly includes a heating flow path, a water inlet flow path and a water supply flow path, the water inlet flow path and the water supply flow path are connected to the heating flow path; a burner, the burner is configured to utilize gas combustion to heat the fluid in the heating flow path; an inlet valve, the inlet valve is connected to the flow path assembly and is used to selectively control the water inlet of the flow path assembly, the inlet valve is closed when power is lost; a drain valve, the drain valve is connected to the flow path assembly, the drain valve is opened to discharge at least a portion of the fluid in the flow path assembly, and the drain valve is opened when power is lost.

[0006] According to the water heater of the embodiment of the present application, a normally closed water inlet valve and a normally open drain valve are provided. When the water heater loses power, most of the water in the flow path assembly can be discharged to prevent the water from freezing in the flow path assembly and bursting the pipes, thereby improving the stability and safety of the water heater and extending the service life of the water heater.

[0007] In addition, the water heater according to the above embodiment of the present application may also have the following additional technical features:

[0008] In some embodiments, the flow path assembly further includes a drainage flow path, one end of which is connected to the water supply flow path, and the drain valve is connected to the drainage flow path and is configured to control the connection and disconnection of the drainage flow path and the water supply flow path.

[0009] In some embodiments, the flow path assembly further includes a bypass flow path, one end of the bypass flow path is connected to the water inlet flow path, and the other end is connected to the water supply flow path, and the one end of the drainage flow path is connected to the bypass flow path, which is used for discharging at least a portion of the fluid in the heating flow path, at least a portion of the fluid in the water inlet flow path, and at least a portion of the fluid in the water supply flow path to the drainage flow path through the bypass flow path when the drain valve is opened, so as to achieve the emptying of the flow path assembly.

[0010] In some embodiments, the drain valve is configured as a three-way valve connected between the bypass flow path and the drain flow path; or, the drain valve is configured as a valve that independently controls the on-off of the drain flow path.

[0011] In some embodiments, a water flow detection unit is further included, wherein the water flow detection unit is connected downstream of the water inlet valve, and the one end of the bypass flow path is connected between the water flow detection unit and the water inlet valve.

[0012] In some embodiments, the other end of the drainage flow path is used for drainage; and / or the drainage flow rate of the drainage flow path is not higher than the start-up flow rate of the water heater or not higher than 0.5 L / min.

[0013] In some embodiments, the other end of the drainage flow path is connected to the water supply flow path.

[0014] In some embodiments, a water storage unit is further included, and the water storage unit is connected in series to the drainage flow path, wherein the water storage unit is provided with a liquid level detection unit; or, the water storage unit is configured to be non-enclosed; or, the water storage unit is configured to be a flexible box; or, the downstream pipeline of the water storage unit is provided with a stainless steel pipe or a brass pipe; or, the outlet of the water storage unit is connected to a one-way valve that can conduct one way from the water storage unit to the water supply flow path; or, the water storage unit is disposed at the bottom or below the water heater; or, the water storage unit is disposed outside the outer shell of the water heater.

[0015] In some embodiments, an air intake valve is further included, and the air intake valve is connected to the flow path assembly, wherein the air intake valve is not lower than the flow path assembly; or, the air intake valve is configured for one-way air intake; or, the air intake valve is configured to be connected to the upper part of the flow path assembly; or, the air intake valve is configured to be higher than all pipe sections of the heating flow path.

[0016] In some embodiments, a first temperature measuring unit is further included, and the first temperature measuring unit is used to detect the inlet water temperature in the inlet water flow path.

[0017] In some embodiments, the first temperature measuring unit is disposed at one end of the water inlet flow path close to the water inlet valve.

[0018] In some embodiments, a second temperature measuring unit is further included, and the second temperature measuring unit is used to detect the temperature of the heating flow path.

[0019] In some embodiments, the second temperature measuring unit is disposed at one end of the water inlet flow path close to the heating flow path; or, the second temperature measuring unit is disposed at the heating flow path; or, the second temperature measuring unit is disposed at one end of the water supply flow path close to the heating flow path.

[0020] In some embodiments, the heating flow path includes multiple pipe segments, the multiple pipe segments are connected to each other and connect the water inlet flow path and the water supply flow path, and the second temperature measuring unit is arranged in the pipe segment closest to the water inlet flow path or the water supply flow path among the multiple pipe segments; or, the second temperature measuring unit is configured to directly contact the fluid in the flow path assembly.

[0021] Some embodiments further include a burner configured to heat the fluid in the heating flow path by combustion of gas.

[0022] In some embodiments, the drain valve is lower than the water inlet valve; or, the water inlet valve is arranged upstream of the flow path assembly; or, the water heater also includes a water inlet joint, which is connected to the water inlet flow path, and the water inlet valve is arranged between the water inlet joint and the flow path assembly or at the water inlet joint. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of a control method for a water heater according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0024] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram of a water heater according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0025] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the control method of the water heater.

[0026] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram of a water heater according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0027] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the control method of the water heater.

[0028] Reference numerals:

[0029] Water heater 100, flow path assembly 10, heating flow path 101, water inlet flow path 102, water supply flow path 103, drainage flow path 104, bypass flow path 105, burner 20, first temperature measuring unit 31, second temperature measuring unit 32, water inlet valve v1, drainage valve v2, air intake valve v3, one-way valve v4, water storage unit s, water flow detection unit f, preset time threshold t1, preset flow threshold f1, water inlet temperature a, water storage temperature b, first temperature value c1, second temperature value c2, third temperature value c3, fourth temperature value c4. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Embodiments of the present application are described in detail below, and examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are intended to be used to explain the present application, and should not be construed as limiting the present application.

[0031] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 According to some embodiments of the present application, the water heater 100 includes a flow path component 10, and the flow path component 10 includes a heating flow path 101, a water inlet flow path 102 and a water supply flow path 103. The water inlet flow path 102 and the water supply flow path 103 are connected to the heating flow path 101; the water inlet flow path 102 can be connected to a water source, and the water supply flow path 103 can be connected to a water-using device, wherein the water inlet flow path 102 can be connected to city water, etc., and water from the water source can be sent to the heating device through the water inlet flow path 102, and the water flows from the water inlet flow path 102 to the heating flow path 101. The heating structure can be used to heat the heating flow path 101. After the heating is completed, it is sent out from the water supply flow path 103 to supply water to the user, wherein the water supply flow path 103 can be connected to a shower, a faucet, etc.

[0032] It also includes a water inlet valve v1, which is connected to the flow path assembly 10 and selectively controls the water inlet of the flow path assembly. When the water inlet valve v1 is opened, water from the water source can flow into the water inlet flow path 102, and then supply water to the heating flow path 101; when the water inlet valve v1 is closed, the water inlet flow path 102 is cut off, and the water from the water source cannot flow into the flow path assembly 10, wherein the water inlet valve v1 is set to be closed when power is lost, that is, when the water inlet valve v1 is powered off, the water inlet flow path 102 will be closed, so that the water from the water source cannot flow into the flow path system.

[0033] It also includes a drain valve v2, which is connected to the flow path component 10. The drain valve v2 selectively controls the flow path component to drain water. When the drain valve v2 is opened, at least a portion of the fluid in the flow path component can be discharged. When the drain valve v2 is opened, the water in the flow path component 10 can be discharged through the drain valve v2, thereby discharging the water in the flow path component 10 (especially the heating flow path 101), so as to avoid damaging the flow path component 10 when the water freezes and increases in volume when the temperature is too low; when the water inlet valve v1 is closed, the drainage flow path 104 is cut off, and the water in the flow path component 10 cannot be discharged through the drain valve v2, and can be discharged from the water supply flow path 103 for use by users. Among them, the drain valve v2 is set to open when the power is off, that is, when the drain valve v2 is powered off, the drain valve v2 is opened to discharge the water in the flow path component 10 (especially the heating flow path 101).

[0034] According to the water heater 100 of the embodiment of the present application, a normally closed water inlet valve v1 and a normally open drain valve v2 are provided. When the water heater 100 loses power, most of the water in the flow path assembly 10 can be discharged to prevent the water from freezing in the flow path assembly 10 and bursting the pipeline, thereby improving the stability and safety of the water heater 100 and extending the service life of the water heater 100.

[0035] In some embodiments of the present application, a burner 20 is further included, and the burner 20 is configured to heat the fluid in the heating flow path 101 by burning gas. In other words, the water heater 100 in the present application can be a gas water heater 100. The burner 20 can be configured to heat the heating flow path 101 by using gas, wherein the gas can be natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas or other combustible gas. In addition, the fluid can also be heated by electric heating in the present application.

[0036] The drain valve v2 in the present application can be used to drain water from the flow path assembly 10, wherein the drain valve v2 can be connected in series to the water supply flow path 103 and set to drain water through the water supply flow path 103, or the drain valve v2 can be set at other locations to drain water. Figure 2 and Figure 4 In some embodiments of the present application, the flow path assembly 10 further includes a drainage flow path 104, one end of which is connected to the water supply flow path 103, and the drainage valve v2 is connected to the drainage flow path 104 and is configured to control the connection and disconnection of the drainage flow path 104 and the water supply flow path 103. The drainage of the flow path assembly 10 can be achieved through the drainage flow path 104, which can reduce the impact on the main flow path of the water heater 100. During the normal use of the water heater 100, the water flow will not pass through the drainage valve v2. When anti-freezing drainage is required, the drainage valve v2 can be opened to drain water, which reduces the impact on the water heater 100 and improves the stability and safety of the operation of the water heater 100.

[0037] In addition, by setting the drainage flow path 104, the maximum flow of the drainage flow path 104 can be set to be different from the maximum flow of the water supply flow path 103. For example, the flow of the drainage flow path 104 can be set to be smaller than the flow of the water supply flow path 103. Further, the flow of the drainage flow can be set to be less than 0.5L / min, or the flow of the drainage flow path 104 can be set to be less than the opening flow of the water heater 100, so as to avoid the water heater 100 from running due to excessive flow during the defreezing and drainage process, which is energy-saving and environmentally friendly.

[0038] Among them, Figure 2 and Figure 4 , the flow path assembly 10 also includes a bypass flow path 105, one end of the bypass flow path 105 is connected to the water inlet flow path 102, and the other end is connected to the water supply flow path 103, and one end of the drainage flow path 104 is connected to the bypass flow path 105. The bypass flow path 105 can conveniently use the drainage flow path 104 to drain the flow path assembly 10, thereby improving the drainage efficiency and efficiency. Among them, the bypass flow path 105 can also be used to balance the water supply temperature. For example, when the outlet temperature of the water supply flow path 103 is too high (for example, the water heater 100 is restarted in a short time after being shut down), the high temperature of the water outlet of the water supply flow path 103 can be balanced by the bypass flow path 105, so as to avoid the water temperature output by the water heater 100 being too high, and improve the stability of the operation of the water heater 100. In addition, by setting the bypass flow path 105 and connecting the drainage flow path 104 to the bypass flow path 105, the structure of the flow path assembly 10 can be simplified, and the influence of the setting of the drain valve v2 on the hot water supply of the water heater 100 can be further avoided.

[0039] When the drain valve v2 is opened, at least a portion of the fluid in the water inlet flow path will flow to the bypass flow path 105, and will be discharged to the drain flow path after passing through the bypass flow path 105; at least a portion of the fluid in the water supply flow path will flow to the bypass flow path 105, and will be discharged to the drain flow path after passing through the bypass flow path 105; at least a portion of the fluid in the heating flow path will flow to the water inlet flow path 102 and the water supply flow path 103, and then flow to the bypass flow path 105, and will be discharged to the drain flow path after passing through the bypass flow path 105. Preferably, all the fluid in the heating flow path will flow to the bypass flow path 105, and will be discharged to the drain flow path after passing through the bypass flow path 105. Through the above-mentioned arrangement, the emptying of the flow path assembly can be achieved, wherein the emptying mentioned here is a relative concept, that is, when the drain valve v2 is opened, part of the fluid in the flow path assembly flows out to achieve partial emptying of the flow path assembly; or all the fluid in the flow path assembly flows out to achieve complete emptying of the flow path assembly, both of which are within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0040] In order to realize the emptying of the fluid in the flow path assembly, the bypass flow path 105 can be connected to the water inlet flow path 102, the water supply flow path 103 and the drainage flow path 104, and the bypass flow path 105 can be set in a structure and position that facilitates the emptying of the flow path assembly. For example, the bypass flow path 105 can be set at least a part lower than the heating flow path; or set at least a part lower than the water supply flow path 103; or set at least a part lower than the water inlet flow path 102. Preferably, the bypass flow path 105 is connected to the lower end of the water supply flow path 103, and the bypass flow path 105 is connected to the lower end of the water inlet flow path 102. In addition, the bypass flow path 105 is set at a position lower than the heating flow path.

[0041] Among them, the drain valve v2 is set as a three-way valve connected between the bypass flow path 105 and the drain flow path 104. For example, it can be set that when the drain valve v2 is closed, the bypass flow path 105 is disconnected and the drain flow path 104 is disconnected; when the drain valve v2 is opened, the bypass flow path 105 is connected and the drain flow path 104 is also opened. In addition, the drain valve v2 can also be set as a valve that independently controls the on-off of the drain flow path 104, that is, the opening and closing of the drain valve v2 does not affect the on-off of the bypass flow path 105. For example, regardless of whether the drain valve v2 is in an open or closed state, the bypass flow path 105 is connected; or the opening and closing of the drain valve v2 does not affect the on-off of the bypass flow path 105; the drain flow path 104 is opened when the drain valve v2 is opened, and the drain flow path 104 is closed when the drain valve v2 is closed.

[0042] Optionally, it also includes a water flow detection unit f, which is connected to the downstream of the water inlet valve v1, and one end of the bypass flow path 105 is connected between the water flow detection unit f and the water inlet valve v1. The water flow detection unit f can detect the flow of water passing through the flow path system. For example, the water flow detection unit f can detect whether the user uses water, and the water heater 100 can be controlled to operate when the water flow reaches a predetermined flow to supply hot water. One end of the bypass flow path 105 of the present application is connected between the water flow detection unit f and the water inlet valve v1. The water flows into the bypass flow path 105 through the water inlet valve v1, which will not affect the water flow detection unit f, thereby avoiding the false start of the water heater 100 and improving the stability and safety of the water heater 100.

[0043] In the present application, the drainage flow rate of the drainage flow path 104 can be set to be no higher than the startup flow rate of the water heater 100 or no higher than 0.5L / min. The water flow rate during drainage can be reduced, so that when the drainage valve v2 is opened and the drainage flow path 104 is used for drainage, the water heater 100 will not be caused to operate, thereby avoiding the wrong start of the water heater 100, effectively reducing energy consumption, and improving the energy efficiency and stability of the water heater 100.

[0044] The drainage flow path 104 in the present application includes but is not limited to the following embodiments.

[0045] In the first embodiment, the other end of the drainage channel 104 is used for drainage. That is, the drainage channel 104 can directly discharge water to the outside of the water heater 100, thereby draining the channel assembly 10 and avoiding safety hazards caused by water freezing in the channel assembly 10.

[0046] In the second embodiment, the other end of the drainage channel 104 is connected to the water supply channel 103. That is, the drainage channel 104 can use the water supply channel 103 to drain water, avoiding the problem of the bottom surface being slippery due to the water being directly discharged outside the water heater 100, and facilitating the use of the user.

[0047] In the third embodiment, the other end of the drainage flow path 104 is connected to other components, and other components (such as external pipes) can be used to drain water; or other components (such as external water tanks) can be used to store water.

[0048] In addition, in some embodiments of the present application, a water storage unit s is also included. The water storage unit s is connected in series to the drainage flow path 104. Water can be stored through the water storage unit s to maintain the stable operation of the water heater 100. Specifically, the water inlet of the water storage unit s is connected to the drainage valve v2. When the drainage valve v2 is needed to drain water, the water can be temporarily stored in the water storage unit s, avoiding the problem of the ground being slippery due to the water being directly discharged to the ground. The water outlet of the water storage unit s can be set to drain water outside the water heater 100; it can also be set to connect to the water supply flow path 103 to discharge the water in the water storage unit s when the user uses water.

[0049] Optionally, the water storage unit s is provided with a liquid level detection unit, which can detect the liquid level in the water storage unit s to avoid excessive water being stored in the water storage unit s, resulting in overflow or causing water to freeze and increase in volume, affecting the stability of the water storage unit s.

[0050] Optionally, the water storage unit s is configured to be non-closed, that is, when water flows into the water storage unit s, the air flow in the water storage unit s can be discharged to avoid the problem that water is difficult to discharge into the water storage unit s; in an abnormal state, if the amount of water in the water storage unit s is too high, the excess water can also be discharged from the water storage unit s, thereby avoiding the problem that the amount of water in the water storage unit s is too high. In addition, when there is a freezing problem in the water storage unit s, since the water storage unit s is configured to be non-closed, the freezing of water can be avoided from affecting the stability of the water storage unit s.

[0051] Optionally, the water storage unit s is configured as a flexible box. When the water in the water storage unit s freezes and increases in volume, the flexible box can provide a space for the increased volume, thereby preventing the water from squeezing the water storage unit s and causing it to rupture. The water storage unit s can be configured to include two parts and a bellows connected between the two parts, or the water storage unit s can be configured to be made of a flexible material.

[0052] Optionally, the downstream pipeline of the water storage unit s is provided with a stainless steel pipe or a brass pipe. In this way, when water is stored in the water storage unit s, some water will also remain in the downstream pipeline of the water storage unit s. This section of the pipeline is set as a stainless steel pipe or a brass pipe to avoid damage to the pipeline due to expansion caused by water freezing into ice.

[0053] Optionally, the outlet of the water storage unit s is connected with a one-way valve v4 that is one-way conductive from the water storage unit s to the water supply flow path 103, which can prevent the water in the water supply flow path 103 from flowing back into the water storage unit s, thereby improving the stability of the water storage unit s. Specifically, when the water supply flow path 103 does not discharge water, the water pressure of the water supply flow path 103 is relatively large, and the water pressure of the water supply flow path 103 is higher than the water pressure of the water storage unit s. The one-way valve v4 is in a cut-off state, which can prevent the water in the water supply flow path 103 from flowing back to the water storage unit s; when the water supply flow path 103 discharges water, the water pressure of the water supply flow path 103 is relatively low, and the water pressure of the water supply flow path 103 is lower than the water pressure of the water storage unit s. The one-way valve v4 is in an open state, and at this time, the water stored in the water storage unit s will pass through the one-way valve v4 and be discharged to the water supply flow path 103, thereby realizing the discharge of water from the water storage unit s.

[0054] Optionally, the water storage unit s is disposed at the lower part or below the water heater 100 , so that the water storage unit s can be conveniently used to store water, thereby effectively improving the stability of the water heater 100 .

[0055] In addition, the water storage unit s can be arranged outside the shell of the water heater 100, so as to avoid the water storage unit s occupying the internal space of the water heater 100, and the height of the water storage unit s can be set low enough to avoid affecting the stability of the water heater 100.

[0056] In some embodiments of the present application, an air intake valve v3 is further included, and the air intake valve v3 is connected to the flow path assembly 10. Through the air intake valve v3, when negative pressure appears in the flow path assembly 10, air can be introduced into the flow path assembly 10 to maintain the internal and external air pressure balance of the flow path assembly 10. In this way, when the drain valve v2 is opened to drain water, the negative pressure in the flow path assembly 10 is avoided from affecting the drainage, and the water in the flow path assembly 10 is quickly drained, thereby improving the stability of the water heater 100.

[0057] Optionally, the air inlet valve v3 is not lower than the flow path assembly 10; or, the air inlet valve v3 is configured for one-way air inlet; or, the air inlet valve v3 is configured to communicate with the upper part of the flow path assembly 10. This can prevent the water in the flow path assembly 10 from being discharged from the air inlet valve v3, thereby maintaining the stability of the water heater 100. In addition, the upper space of the flow path assembly 10 is fully utilized, and the amount of water that can be stored in the flow path assembly 10 can also be increased.

[0058] In addition, the heating flow path includes a plurality of pipe sections, which are connected to each other and connect the water inlet flow path and the water supply flow path. The plurality of pipe sections can be connected in series, in parallel or in mixed connection, etc. The fluid in the water inlet flow path can be heated in the heating flow path and then sent out through the water supply flow path.

[0059] In addition, the second temperature measuring unit is arranged in the pipe section closest to the water inlet or the water supply path among the multiple pipe sections, so as to effectively improve the temperature measurement accuracy and efficiency of the second temperature measuring unit on the heating path, thereby improving the stability and anti-freezing effect of the water heater.

[0060] In addition, the second temperature measuring unit is configured to directly contact the fluid in the flow path component to improve the detection accuracy.

[0061] In some embodiments of the present application, a first temperature measuring unit 31 is further included, and the first temperature measuring unit 31 is used to detect the inlet water temperature a in the inlet water flow path 102. The first temperature measuring unit 31 can detect the inlet water temperature a in the inlet water flow path 102, so as to determine whether there may be a freezing problem in the flow path system by detecting the inlet water temperature a, so as to further improve the anti-freezing effect of the water heater 100 and improve the stability and safety of the water heater 100.

[0062] The first temperature measuring unit 31 is disposed at one end of the water inlet flow path 102 close to the water inlet valve v1. The first temperature measuring unit 31 can be disposed at a position close to the entrance of the water inlet flow path 102, which can improve the accuracy of detecting the water inlet temperature a. In addition, the change of the water inlet temperature a can be discovered in time, so as to determine whether the water in the flow path assembly 10 has a risk of freezing by using the water inlet temperature a, and facilitate accurate freezing judgment.

[0063] In some embodiments of the present application, a second temperature measuring unit 32 is further included, and the second temperature measuring unit 32 is used to detect the temperature of the heating flow path 101. It is possible to determine whether the heating flow path 101 may have a risk of freezing by detecting the temperature of the heating flow path 101. The accuracy of freezing detection can be improved to facilitate accurate anti-freezing operations, avoid erroneous operations due to excessive errors, and improve the stability of the water heater 100.

[0064] Optionally, the second temperature measuring unit 32 is disposed at one end of the water inlet flow path 102 close to the heating flow path 101; or, the second temperature measuring unit 32 is disposed at the heating flow path 101; or, the second temperature measuring unit 32 is disposed at one end of the water supply flow path 103 close to the heating flow path 101. The accuracy of the temperature detection of the water in the heating flow path 101 can be improved. The temperature change of the water in the heating flow path 101 can be discovered in time, so as to determine whether the water in the flow path assembly 10 has a risk of freezing by using the heating flow path 101, and facilitate accurate freezing judgment.

[0065] Some embodiments of the present application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0066] Embodiment 1

[0067] like Figures 1 to 3 The water heater 100 includes a flow path assembly 10, a water inlet valve v1, a drain valve v2, an air inlet valve v3, a water flow detection unit f, a first temperature measuring unit 31, a second temperature measuring unit 32 and a burner 20. The flow path assembly 10 includes a heating flow path 101, a water inlet flow path 102, a water supply flow path 103, a drain flow path 104 and a bypass flow path 105. The water inlet flow path 102 and the water supply flow path 103 are connected to the heating flow path 101, the bypass flow path 105 connects the water inlet flow path 102 and the water supply flow path 103, and the drain flow path 104 is connected to the bypass flow path 105. 05, the water inlet valve v1 is connected to the water inlet flow path 102, the water flow detection unit f is connected to the water inlet flow path 102, one end of the bypass flow path 105 is connected between the water flow detection unit f and the water inlet valve v1, and the other end is connected to the water supply flow path 103, the first temperature measuring unit 31 is connected to the downstream of the water flow detection unit f, the second side temperature measuring unit is connected to one end of the water inlet flow path 102 close to the heating flow path 101, the air intake valve v3 is connected to one end of the water supply flow path 103 close to the heating flow path 101, and the burner 20 and the heating flow path 101 are arranged in the combustion chamber.

[0068] In addition, the position of the air inlet valve v3 can be set higher than all the pipelines of the heating flow path 101 (such as a heat exchanger), and the second temperature measuring unit 32 can be set in a pipeline closest to the heating flow path 101 or the outlet and directly contact the water; the position of the drain valve v2 can be set lower than the water inlet valve v1. The water inlet valve can be set before all the components and after the water inlet joint, and it can also be considered to be directly set on the water inlet joint. For example, the water inlet valve can be set upstream of the flow path component, and the fluid will be sent to the flow path component after passing through the water inlet valve. In some examples, the water heater also includes a water inlet joint, which is connected to the water inlet flow path, and the water inlet valve is set between the water inlet joint and the flow path component or at the water inlet joint. In addition, when the water inlet valve v1 is switched from a closed state to an open state, the state of the drain valve v2 is first determined to be a closed state; then when the water inlet valve v1 is opened and the drain valve v2 is opened, the water inlet valve v1 is switched from an open state to a closed state, which can be performed before the drain valve v2 is opened.

[0069] A temperature sensor is added as a trigger point in this application to assist in the implementation of electrical antifreeze; the water inlet valve v1, drain valve v2, etc. in this application can be set as solenoid valves or other electrically controlled valves, and special functions can be added, such as constant water volume output for the bathtub, water leakage protection when a leak is detected, and 100% clear mode for the water heater; this application will add a flow mode when powered, which can make the use temperature lower, that is, water inlet close to 0 degrees can also be used. At the same time, we limit the water flow rate of drainage to improve the level of savings.

[0070] like Figure 3 The control method of the water heater 100 of the present application may include:

[0071] Step 1: If the water heater 100 is not powered on, the water inlet valve v1 is closed and the drain valve v2 is opened, and the water in the flow path assembly 10 will be discharged from the drain valve v2. At this time, air can enter the flow path assembly 10 from the air inlet valve v3 to balance the internal and external air pressures of the flow path assembly 10.

[0072] Step 2: If the water heater 100 is powered on, the water inlet temperature a is obtained. If the water inlet temperature a is less than or equal to the first temperature value c1, anti-freezing control is performed, and the working states of the water inlet valve v1 and the drain valve v2 are determined according to the water storage temperature b value;

[0073] Step 3: When receiving an instruction to execute a second action, start executing the second action, and continue anti-freeze control after the second action is completed, where the second action may include user water use, water heater 100 self-inspection, or water heater 100 maintenance.

[0074] Step 4: If the water flow detection unit f detects that the water flow reaches the preset flow threshold value f1, it is determined that the water inlet valve v1 is in an open state. If the water inlet valve v1 is not in an open state, it is determined that the water flow detection unit f is abnormal, the water inlet valve v1 is faulty or leaking, and a corresponding fault signal (which can be a sound, light or electrical signal) can be sent, and the water inlet valve v1 and the drain valve v2 are closed; then, if the drain valve v2 is in a closed state, the water heater 100 operates normally. If the drain valve v2 is not in a closed state, the water heater 100 operates normally after closing the drain valve v2;

[0075] Step 5: If the water storage temperature b is less than or equal to the second temperature value c2, it is determined that the working state of the water inlet valve v1 is the closed state and the working state of the water drain valve v2 is the open state. The water inlet valve v1 is closed and the water drain valve v2 is opened. The water in the flow path component 10 will be discharged from the water drain valve v2. At this time, air can enter the flow path component 10 from the air inlet valve v3 to balance the internal and external air pressures of the flow path component 10.

[0076] Step 6: If the water storage temperature b is greater than the second temperature value c2 and less than the third temperature value c3, when the working state of the water inlet valve v1 is the closed state and the working state of the water drain valve v2 is the open state, it is determined that the working state of the water inlet valve v1 is the closed state and the working state of the water drain valve v2 is the open state; when the working state of the water inlet valve v1 is not the closed state or the working state of the water drain valve v2 is not the open state, it is determined that the working state of the water inlet valve v1 is the open state and the working state of the water drain valve v2 is the open state;

[0077] Step 7: If the water storage temperature b is greater than or equal to the third temperature value c3 and less than or equal to the fourth temperature value c4, when the working state of the water inlet valve v1 is the open state and the working state of the water drain valve v2 is the open state, determine that the working state of the water inlet valve v1 is the open state and the working state of the water drain valve v2 is the open state; when the working state of the water inlet valve v1 is not the open state or the working state of the water drain valve v2 is not the open state, determine that the working state of the water inlet valve v1 is the open state and the working state of the water drain valve v2 is the closed state;

[0078] Step 8: If the water storage temperature b is greater than the fourth temperature value c4, determine that the working state of the water inlet valve v1 is an open state and the working state of the water discharge valve v2 is a closed state.

[0079] Embodiment 2

[0080] like Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The water heater 100 includes a flow path component 10, a water inlet valve v1, a drain valve v2, an air inlet valve v3, a check valve v4, a water flow detection unit f, a water storage unit s, a first temperature measurement unit 31, a second temperature measurement unit 32 and a burner 20. The flow path component 10 includes a heating flow path 101, a water inlet flow path 102, a water supply flow path 103, a drain flow path 104 and a bypass flow path 105. The water inlet flow path 102 and the water supply flow path 103 are connected to the heating flow path 101, the bypass flow path 105 is connected to the water inlet flow path 102 and the water supply flow path 103, the drain flow path 104 is connected to the bypass flow path 105, and the water inlet valve v1 is connected to the water inlet flow path 10 2. The water flow detection unit f is connected to the water inlet flow path 102, one end of the bypass flow path 105 is connected between the water flow detection unit f and the water inlet valve v1, and the other end is connected to the water supply flow path 103, the first temperature measuring unit 31 is connected to the downstream of the water flow detection unit f, the second side temperature measuring unit is connected to the end of the water inlet flow path 102 close to the heating flow path 101, the air intake valve v3 is connected to the end of the water supply flow path 103 close to the heating flow path 101, the burner 20 and the heating flow path 101 are arranged in the combustion chamber, the water storage unit s is connected to the drainage flow path 104, the one-way valve v4 is connected to the drainage flow path 104, and is arranged downstream of the water storage unit s.

[0081] In addition, the position of the air inlet valve v3 can be set higher than all pipelines of the heating flow path 101 (such as a heat exchanger), and the second temperature measuring unit 32 can be set in a pipeline closest to the heating flow path 101 or the outlet and directly contact the water; the position of the drain valve v2 can be set lower than the water inlet valve v1. The water inlet valve can be set before all parts and after the water inlet joint, and it can also be considered to be directly set on the water inlet joint. In addition, when the water inlet valve v1 is switched from the closed state to the open state, the state of the drain valve v2 is first determined to be the closed state; then when the water inlet valve v1 is opened and the drain valve v2 is opened, the water inlet valve v1 is switched from the open state to the closed state, which can be performed before the drain valve v2 is opened.

[0082] When the water heater 100 is powered on and the antifreeze function is not activated, the water inlet valve v1 is in an open state and the drain valve v2 is in a closed state. The user can use the water heater 100 normally. When the first temperature measuring unit recognizes that the temperature is lower than the first temperature value c1 (for example, 4°C), and the water heater 100 is not in operation, the water inlet valve v1 is closed and the drain valve v2 is opened to form a water flow passage, and the water is drained in cooperation with the air inlet valve v3. Once the whole machine is drained, the antifreeze effect can be achieved. Optionally, if the water inlet temperature a is greater than the first temperature value c1, the water inlet temperature of the flow path component is detected at a predetermined interval. The predetermined time can be in the range of 1s to 1h, for example, the predetermined time is set to 1s, 20s, 50s, 5min, 55min or 60min, etc.

[0083] In the event of an accidental or man-made power outage, the water inlet valve v1 automatically returns to its normally closed state, and the drain valve v2 also automatically returns to its normally open state. That is, once there is no power, the machine will automatically drain the water. In this state, even if the outside temperature is low, the machine will not be at risk of freezing.

[0084] The water inlet valve v1 and the drain valve v2 are electronically controlled and can be used together to achieve other functions except the anti-freeze function; the drainage flow rate of the drainage flow path 104 can be set to 0.3L / min (lower than the starting water flow rate of the whole machine, but to ensure that the water flow of the whole machine does not freeze). Considering that flowing water is more difficult to freeze, it can ensure that the system does not freeze; the water flow status needs to be counted over time. If the water continues to flow for a long time, it is judged that no one is at home and the pipe water is directly drained.

[0085] In this application, a temperature sensor is added as a trigger point to assist in the implementation of electrical antifreeze; the water inlet valve v1, drain valve v2, etc. in this application can be set as solenoid valves or other electrically controlled valves, and special functions can be added, such as fixed water output for the bathtub, water leakage protection if a leak is detected, such as the clear mode of the water heater 100, etc.; this application will add a flow mode when powered, which can make the use temperature lower, that is, it can also be used with water inlet close to 0 degrees. At the same time, we limit the water flow rate of drainage to improve the saving level. The drain valve v2 in this application can be a three-way valve located between the bypass flow path 105 and the drainage flow path 104. Once closed, the three water paths are not connected to each other, and once opened, all are connected; it can also be that the bypass path is always open, and only the drain valve is switched.

[0086] like Figure 5 The control method of the water heater 100 of the present application may include:

[0087] Step 1: If the water heater 100 is not powered on, the water inlet valve v1 is closed and the drain valve v2 is opened, and the water in the flow path assembly 10 will be discharged from the drain valve v2. At this time, air can enter the flow path assembly 10 from the air inlet valve v3 to balance the internal and external air pressures of the flow path assembly 10.

[0088] Step 2: If the water heater 100 is powered on, the water inlet temperature a is obtained. If the water inlet temperature a is less than or equal to the first temperature value c1, anti-freezing control is performed, and the working states of the water inlet valve v1 and the drain valve v2 are determined according to the water storage temperature b value;

[0089] Step 3: When receiving an instruction to execute a second action, start executing the second action, and continue anti-freeze control after the second action is completed, where the second action may include user water use, water heater 100 self-inspection, or water heater 100 maintenance.

[0090] Step 4: If it is detected that there is water in the water storage unit s, the water inlet valve v1 is closed and the drain valve v2 is opened, and the water in the flow path component 10 will be discharged from the drain valve v2. At this time, air can enter the flow path component 10 from the air inlet valve v3 to balance the internal and external air pressures of the flow path component 10; if it is detected that there is no water in the water storage unit s, proceed to step 5;

[0091] Step 5: If the water storage temperature b is less than or equal to the second temperature value c2, it is determined that the working state of the water inlet valve v1 is the closed state and the working state of the water drain valve v2 is the open state. The water inlet valve v1 is closed and the water drain valve v2 is opened. The water in the flow path component 10 will be discharged from the water drain valve v2. At this time, air can enter the flow path component 10 from the air inlet valve v3 to balance the internal and external air pressures of the flow path component 10.

[0092] Step 6: If the water storage temperature b is greater than the second temperature value c2 and less than the third temperature value c3, when the working state of the water inlet valve v1 is the open state and the working state of the drain valve v2 is the closed state, it is determined that the working state of the water inlet valve v1 is the open state and the working state of the drain valve v2 is the closed state, and the water heater 100 operates normally; when the working state of the water inlet valve v1 is not the open state or the working state of the drain valve v2 is not the closed state, it is determined that the working state of the water inlet valve v1 is the closed state and the working state of the drain valve v2 is the open state;

[0093] Step 7: If the water storage temperature b is greater than or equal to the third temperature value c3 and less than or equal to the fourth temperature value c4, it is determined that the working state of the water inlet valve v1 is open and the working state of the drain valve v2 is closed, and the water heater 100 operates normally.

[0094] The first temperature value c1 in the present application can be set to a range of 0°C to 15°C, for example, the first temperature value c1 is set to 0°C, 3°C, 4°C, 6°C, 7.6°C, 8.9°C or 15°C, etc. The second temperature value c2 is less than the third temperature value c3, and the third temperature value c3 is less than the fourth temperature value c4. Among them, the second temperature value c2 can be set to a range of 0°C to 15°C, for example, the second temperature value c2 is set to 0°C, 3°C, 4°C, 6°C, 7.6°C, 8.9°C or 15°C, etc.; the third temperature value c3 can be set to a range of 0°C to 15°C, for example, the third temperature value c3 is set to 0°C, 3°C, 4°C, 6°C, 7.6°C, 8.9°C or 15°C, etc.; the fourth temperature value c4 can be set to a range of 0°C to 15°C, for example, the fourth temperature value c4 is set to 0°C, 3°C, 4°C, 6°C, 7.6°C, 8.9°C or 15°C, etc.

[0095] In addition, the preset time threshold t1 can be set within the range of 1s to 100min, for example, the preset time threshold t1 is set to 1s, 20s, 50s, 5min, 55min or 60min, etc. The preset flow threshold f1 can be set to 1% to 100% of the start-up temperature of the water heater, for example, the preset flow threshold f1 is set to the range of 0.01L / min to 1L / min, for example, the preset flow threshold f1 is set to 0.01L / min, 0.2L / min, 0.3L / min, 0.35L / min, 0.5L / min, 0.8L / min or 1L / min, etc.

[0096] In the description of the present application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" and the like indicate orientations or positional relationships based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the referred device or element must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as a limitation on the present application.

[0097] In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features. Therefore, the features defined as "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of the features. In the description of this application, the meaning of "plurality" is at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise clearly and specifically defined.

[0098] In this application, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installed", "connected", "connected", "fixed" and the like should be understood in a broad sense, for example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, it can be the internal connection of two elements or the interaction relationship between two elements, unless otherwise clearly defined. For ordinary technicians in this field, the specific meanings of the above terms in this application can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0099] In the present application, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, a first feature being “above” or “below” a second feature may mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Moreover, a first feature being “above”, “above”, and “above” a second feature may mean that the first feature is directly above or obliquely above the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is higher in level than the second feature. A first feature being “below”, “below”, and “below” a second feature may mean that the first feature is directly below or obliquely below the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is lower in level than the second feature.

[0100] In the description of this specification, the description with reference to the terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "example", "specific example", or "some examples" etc. means that the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present application. In this specification, the schematic representations of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described may be combined in any one or more embodiments or examples in a suitable manner. In addition, those skilled in the art may combine and combine the different embodiments or examples described in this specification and the features of the different embodiments or examples, without contradiction.

[0101] Although the embodiments of the present application have been shown and described above, it can be understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and cannot be understood as limitations on the present application. Ordinary technicians in this field can change, modify, replace and modify the above embodiments within the scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A water heater, characterized in that: include: A flow path assembly, the flow path assembly comprising a heating flow path, a water inlet flow path and a water supply flow path, the water inlet flow path and the water supply flow path being connected to the heating flow path; A burner, wherein the burner is configured to heat the fluid in the heating flow path by burning gas; A water inlet valve, the water inlet valve is connected to the flow path assembly and is used to selectively control water inlet to the flow path assembly, and the water inlet valve is closed when power is lost; A drain valve is connected to the flow path component. When the drain valve is opened, at least a portion of the fluid in the flow path component is discharged. The drain valve opens when power is lost.

2. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The flow path assembly further includes a drainage flow path, one end of which is connected to the water supply flow path, and the drain valve is connected to the drainage flow path and is configured to control the connection and disconnection between the drainage flow path and the water supply flow path.

3. The water heater according to claim 2, characterized in that: The flow path assembly further includes a bypass flow path, one end of which is connected to the water inlet flow path, and the other end of which is connected to the water supply flow path, and the one end of the drainage flow path is connected to the bypass flow path.

4. The water heater according to claim 3, characterized in that: The drain valve is configured as a three-way valve connected between the bypass flow path and the drain flow path; Or, the drain valve is configured as a valve that independently controls the on-off of the drain flow path; Alternatively, the bypass flow path is configured such that when the drain valve is opened, at least a portion of the fluid in the heating flow path, at least a portion of the fluid in the water inlet flow path, and at least a portion of the fluid in the water supply flow path are discharged into the drain flow path through the bypass flow path to achieve emptying of the flow path assembly.

5. The water heater according to claim 3, characterized in that: It also includes a water flow detection unit, which is connected downstream of the water inlet valve, and one end of the bypass flow path is connected between the water flow detection unit and the water inlet valve.

6. The water heater according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that: The other end of the drainage flow path is used for drainage; And / or, the drainage flow rate of the drainage flow path is not higher than the start-up flow rate of the water heater or is not higher than 0.5 L / min.

7. The water heater according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that: The other end of the drainage flow path is connected to the water supply flow path.

8. The water heater according to claim 7, characterized in that: It also includes a water storage unit, which is connected in series to the drainage flow path. Wherein, the water storage unit is provided with a liquid level detection unit; or, the water storage unit is configured to be non-enclosed; or, the water storage unit is configured to be a flexible box; or, the downstream pipeline of the water storage unit is provided with a stainless steel pipe or a brass pipe; or, the outlet of the water storage unit is connected to a one-way valve that can conduct one way from the water storage unit to the water supply path; or, the water storage unit is arranged at the bottom or below the water heater; or, the water storage unit is arranged outside the outer shell of the water heater.

9. The water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: It also includes an air intake valve, the air intake valve is connected to the flow path component, Wherein, the air intake valve is not lower than the flow path component; or, the air intake valve is configured for one-way air intake; or, the air intake valve is configured to be connected to the upper part of the flow path component; or, the air intake valve is configured to be higher than all pipe sections of the heating flow path.

10. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that It also includes a first temperature measuring unit, which is used to detect the inlet water temperature in the inlet flow path. The first temperature measuring unit is arranged at one end of the inlet flow path close to the inlet valve.

11. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that It also includes a second temperature measuring unit, the second temperature measuring unit is used to detect the temperature of the heating flow path, Wherein, the second temperature measuring unit is arranged at one end of the water inlet flow path close to the heating flow path; or, the second temperature measuring unit is arranged at the heating flow path; or, the second temperature measuring unit is arranged at one end of the water supply flow path close to the heating flow path; or, the heating flow path includes a plurality of pipe sections, the plurality of pipe sections are connected and connect the water inlet flow path and the water supply flow path, and the second temperature measuring unit is arranged in the pipe section closest to the water inlet flow path or the water supply flow path among the plurality of pipe sections; or, the second temperature measuring unit is configured to directly contact the fluid in the flow path component.

12. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that The drain valve is lower than the water inlet valve; or, the water inlet valve is arranged upstream of the flow path component; or, the water heater also includes a water inlet joint, which is connected to the water inlet flow path, and the water inlet valve is arranged between the water inlet joint and the flow path component or at the water inlet joint.

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