Front panel structure suitable for air energy water heater

Through the combined design of the skeleton, upper skeleton and lower skeleton in the panel, the plug-in snap and limit structure are used to solve the problems of complex height fixation and assembly of the front panel in the prior art, and flexible combination, aesthetics and earthquake resistance are achieved to meet the demand of the high-end market.

CN223179052UActive Publication Date: 2025-08-01GUANGDONG PHNIX TECH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202422100133.8
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-08-28
Publication Date
2025-08-01
Estimated Expiration
2034-08-28

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The front panel of the existing air energy water heater is designed with a high fixed design, resulting in the need to manufacture multiple molds, which increases costs and is not flexible enough, has complex assembly and is not beautiful enough, making it difficult to meet the needs of the high-end market.

Method used

The combined design of the skeleton in the panel, the upper panel and the lower panel skeleton in the panel is adopted, and flexible connection is achieved through the plug-in mechanism and limit structure. The combination of the plug-in snap and limit snap is used, combined with the panel clamping slot and hollow slot design, to achieve stable connection and aesthetics.

Benefits of technology

It realizes flexible combination and rapid replacement of the front panel, reduces production costs, improves production efficiency, ensures aesthetics and earthquake resistance, and meets high-end market demand.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model provides a front panel structure suitable for an air energy water heater, which comprises a panel middle framework, and the top and the bottom of the panel middle framework are respectively connected with a panel upper framework and a panel lower framework which can be flexibly replaced through an inserting mechanism and a limiting structure; according to the front panel structure, through the combined design of the panel middle framework, the panel upper framework, the panel lower framework, the inserting mechanisms of the panel middle framework, the panel upper framework and the panel lower framework and the limiting structures of the panel upper framework and the panel lower framework, the assembling mode of the front panel is more flexible and diverse, and the panel middle framework is matched with the panel upper framework and the panel lower framework through the inserting buckles and the limiting structures; according to the front panel assembly, stable connection is achieved, meanwhile, the front panel structure is allowed to be rapidly replaced and combined according to requirements, the problem that in the prior art, due to the fixed height, various molds need to be developed is solved, the same set of front panel assembly can be suitable for tank bodies with different heights, and therefore the production cost is greatly reduced, and the production efficiency is improved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of air - energy water heater accessories, and particularly to a front - panel structure applicable to an air - energy water heater. Background Technique

[0002] As an energy - saving and environment - friendly household appliance, the air - energy water heater has been widely used in recent years. Its working principle is to absorb heat from the air through an air - source heat pump and convert it into heat energy for heating water. This technology has a higher energy - efficiency ratio compared with traditional electric water heaters and gas water heaters, especially having significant advantages in reducing energy consumption and environmental pollution. Currently, the integral air - energy water heaters on the market usually include structures such as a front panel, an upper component, and a tank component. Among them, the front panel not only plays a role in decoration and aesthetics but also provides a certain degree of protection for the interior of the device. However, most of the existing front - panel designs are integral structures with a fixed height, that is, the height of the front panel is closely related to the height of the water - heater tank. In order to adapt to tanks of different capacities, manufacturers often need to design and manufacture front - panel molds of various different heights, which not only increases the design and development costs but also limits the flexibility of the product.

[0003] At the same time, the existing front panels usually adopt simple screw fixation or snap - fit connection during the assembly process. Although this method can ensure a certain degree of structural stability, there are often problems such as an unattractive appearance, complex installation steps, and inconvenient assembly. Especially in the high - end market, consumers' demands for product appearance and personalized customization are increasing day by day, and the traditional front - panel design has been difficult to meet the market demands. Therefore, how to design a front - panel structure with high flexibility, easy assembly, and aesthetics has become an important direction for technological breakthroughs in the industry. Summary of the Utility Model

[0004] The purpose of the utility model is to provide a front - panel structure applicable to an air - energy water heater to solve the problems raised in the above - mentioned background technique.

[0005] To achieve the above object, the present utility model provides the following technical solutions: A front panel structure applicable to an air source heat pump water heater, including a middle panel frame. The top and bottom of the middle panel frame are respectively connected with an upper panel frame and a lower panel frame that can be flexibly replaced through a plugging mechanism and a limiting structure; the plugging mechanism includes a plurality of plugging buckles fixedly connected to the top and bottom of the middle panel frame, the bottom of the upper panel frame, and the top of the lower panel frame. A plurality of plugging slots are also provided between the plurality of plugging buckles, which are opened on the top and bottom of the middle panel frame, the bottom of the upper panel frame, and the top of the lower panel frame. When the middle panel frame is assembled with the upper panel frame and the lower panel frame, the plugging buckles of adjacent two frames are inserted into the plugging slots at corresponding positions; Panel positioning slots are opened on both sides of the front of the middle panel frame, the upper panel frame, and the lower panel frame, and two side panel positioning slots are snap-connected with a panel that covers the surfaces of the middle panel frame, the upper panel frame, and the lower panel frame and has a matching size.

[0006] As a preferred solution of the present utility model: The limiting structure includes a first limiting mechanism. The first limiting mechanism includes limiting buckles fixedly connected to the top and bottom of the middle panel frame, the bottom of the upper panel frame, and the bottom of the lower panel frame. The first limiting mechanism also includes limiting slots opened on the top and bottom of the middle panel frame, the bottom of the upper panel frame, and the bottom of the lower panel frame. When the middle panel frame is assembled with the upper panel frame and the lower panel frame, the limiting buckles of adjacent two frames are inserted into the limiting slots at corresponding positions.

[0007] As a preferred solution of the present utility model: Grid-shaped hollow slots are provided in the middle of the middle panel frame, the upper panel frame, and the lower panel frame.

[0008] As a preferred solution of the present utility model: The middle panel frame is at least one piece, and the adjacent two middle panel frames have the same size and are symmetrically assembled.

[0009] As a preferred solution of the present utility model: A strip-shaped slot is provided inside each middle panel frame. Arc-shaped protrusions are fixedly provided at both ends of the strip-shaped slot. A panel fixing strip is snap-connected inside the strip-shaped slot.

[0010] As a preferred solution of the present utility model: Arc-shaped grooves with sizes adapted to the arc-shaped protrusions are opened at both ends of the panel fixing strip. A plurality of screw holes are opened on the surface of the panel fixing strip.

[0011] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present utility model are:

[0012] 1) The front panel structure of the present utility model is designed by combining the middle panel skeleton, the upper panel skeleton, the lower panel skeleton, and their plug-in mechanisms and limiting structures. The assembly method of the front panel is more flexible and diverse. Through the mutual cooperation of multiple plug-in buckles and limiting structures between the middle panel skeleton, the upper panel skeleton, and the lower panel skeleton, a firm connection is achieved. At the same time, it allows the front panel structure to be quickly replaced and combined according to needs, avoiding the problem in the prior art that multiple molds need to be developed due to fixed height, enabling the same set of front panel components to be applicable to tanks of different heights, thus greatly reducing production costs and improving production efficiency. Moreover, the front panel, through the panel clamping grooves provided on the middle panel skeleton, the upper panel skeleton, and the lower panel skeleton, and the matching front panel connection method, ensures the integrity and aesthetics of the front panel after assembly. And the clamping connection not only makes the surface of the front panel flat and seamless after assembly, but also enhances the seismic resistance and durability of the front panel, especially maintaining a stable appearance and structural integrity during long-term use;

[0013] 2) In the second embodiment of the present utility model, the multi-piece combination design of the front panel and its snap connection with the stepped grooves and protrusions of the middle panel skeleton, the upper panel skeleton, and the lower panel skeleton not only optimizes the appearance of the front panel, making the connection traces more concealed, but also further improves the assembly accuracy and aesthetics of the front panel. During the assembly process, the limiting cooperation of the circular plug-in posts and the annular grooves makes the installation of the front panel more simple and accurate, while improving the firmness and durability of the structure, especially suitable for scenarios where the front panel needs to be frequently adjusted or replaced, greatly meeting the market demand for high-end, beautiful, and personalized customized products. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 is a schematic structural diagram of the present utility model;

[0015] Figure 2 is one of the schematic structural diagrams of the present utility model;

[0016] Figure 3 is a disassembled schematic diagram of the present utility model;

[0017] Figure 4 is a schematic structural diagram of the middle panel skeleton of the present utility model;

[0018] Figure 5 is a schematic structural diagram of the lower panel skeleton of the present utility model;

[0019] Figure 6 is a schematic structural diagram of the panel fixing strip of the present utility model;

[0020] Figure 7 is of the present utility model Figure 3 is an enlarged schematic diagram at position A;

[0021] Figure 8 Schematic diagram of the structure of Embodiment 2 of the present utility model;

[0022] Figure 9 Exploded view of Embodiment 2 of the present utility model;

[0023] Figure 10 of the present utility model Figure 9 Enlarged view located at B.

[0024] In the figure: 100, middle panel frame; 110, strip groove; 120, arc-shaped protrusion; 130, panel fixing strip; 131, arc-shaped groove; 132, screw hole; 200, plugging mechanism; 210, plugging buckle; 220, plugging slot; 300, limiting structure; 310, first limiting mechanism; 311, limiting buckle; 312, limiting slot; 313, limiting post; 314, limiting hole; 320, second limiting mechanism; 321, annular groove; 322, circular plugging post; 400, upper panel frame; 500, lower panel frame; 600, panel clamping groove; 700, panel; 800, hollow groove; 900, stepped groove; 910, stepped protrusion. Specific embodiments

[0025] Next, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present utility model. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present utility model, rather than all the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative efforts shall fall within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0026] Embodiment 1

[0027] Please refer to Figures 1-7 , the present utility model provides a technical solution: a front panel structure applicable to an air source heat pump water heater, including a middle panel frame 100, and a top and a bottom of the middle panel frame 100 are respectively connected with an upper panel frame 400 and a lower panel frame 500 that can be flexibly replaced through a plugging mechanism 200 and a limiting structure 300;

[0028] The plug-in mechanism 200 includes a plurality of plug-in buckles 210 fixedly connected to the top and bottom of the panel middle frame 100, the bottom of the panel upper frame 400, and the top of the panel lower frame 500. There are also a plurality of plug-in slots 220 opened on the top and bottom of the panel middle frame 100, the bottom of the panel upper frame 400, and the top of the panel lower frame 500 between the plurality of plug-in buckles 210. When the panel middle frame 100 is assembled with the panel upper frame 400 and the panel lower frame 500, the plug-in buckles 210 of adjacent two frames are inserted into the plug-in slots 220 at corresponding positions;

[0029] Panel clamping grooves 600 are opened on both sides of the front surface of the panel middle frame 100, the panel upper frame 400, and the panel lower frame 500. The panel clamping grooves 600 on both sides are snap-connected to a panel 700 that covers the surfaces of the panel middle frame 100, the panel upper frame 400, and the panel lower frame 500 and has a matching size.

[0030] Specifically, a plurality of plug-in buckles 210 are provided at the top and bottom of the panel middle frame 100. The plurality of plug-in buckles 210 achieve a stable connection by being inserted into the corresponding plug-in slots 220. The plug-in mechanism 200 enables the panel upper frame 400 and the panel lower frame 500 to be closely combined with the panel middle frame 100, forming a unified overall front panel structure. Moreover, the plug-in method not only provides a firm structural connection but also enables the front panel structure to be flexibly combined and replaced according to requirements, thus adapting to tanks of different heights, reducing the need for manufacturers to develop multiple front panel molds, greatly improving production efficiency, and reducing costs.

[0031] One side of the panel 700 can first be snapped into the panel clamping groove 600 on one side, and then the other side of the panel 700 can be snapped into the panel clamping groove 600 on the other side by using a tool. The inner side of the panel 700 is closely attached to the frame, and then the assembly of the panel 700 is quickly completed.

[0032] In this embodiment, the limiting structure 300 includes a first limiting mechanism 310. The first limiting mechanism 310 includes limiting buckles 311 fixedly connected to the top and bottom of the panel middle frame 100, the bottom of the panel upper frame 400, and the bottom of the panel lower frame 500. The first limiting mechanism 310 also includes limiting slots 312 opened on the top and bottom of the panel middle frame 100, the bottom of the panel upper frame 400, and the bottom of the panel lower frame 500. When the panel middle frame 100 is assembled with the panel upper frame 400 and the panel lower frame 500, the limiting buckles 311 of adjacent two frames are inserted into the limiting slots 312 at corresponding positions.

[0033] Specifically, to further ensure the stability and accuracy of the skeleton connection, the first limiting mechanism 310 of the limiting structure 300 uses a limiting buckle 311 and a limiting slot 312 for snap connection, which not only ensures the precise alignment of the skeleton 100 in the panel with the upper panel skeleton 400 and the lower panel skeleton 500 during assembly, but also prevents structural loosening by providing an additional mechanical locking level. Moreover, the dual snap and limiting design greatly enhances the seismic resistance and durability of the front panel structure. Especially during long-term use or external impact, it can maintain the stability and integrity of the structure.

[0034] In this embodiment, grid-shaped hollow slots 800 are provided in the middle of the middle panel skeleton 100, the upper panel skeleton 400, and the lower panel skeleton 500.

[0035] Specifically, grid-shaped hollow slots 800 are provided in the middle of the middle panel skeleton 100, the upper panel skeleton 400, and the lower panel skeleton 500. The hollow slots 800 not only play a role in reducing the overall structure weight, but also can reduce the use of raw materials during the production of the skeleton.

[0036] In this embodiment, the middle panel skeleton 100 has at least one piece, and the sizes of two adjacent middle panel skeletons 100 are the same and are symmetrically assembled.

[0037] Specifically, the middle panel skeleton 100 has at least one piece, and the sizes of two adjacent middle panel skeletons 100 are the same and are symmetrically assembled. Different numbers of middle panel skeletons 100 can be selected according to the height of the air energy water heater tank. At the same time, the symmetrical assembly method of two adjacent middle panel skeletons 100 simplifies the alignment and assembly steps in the production process, and also ensures the appearance consistency and structural symmetry of the finished product. The symmetrical assembly design can effectively avoid structural instability or appearance deviation caused by assembly errors, and at the same time improves production efficiency.

[0038] In this embodiment, a strip-shaped groove 110 is provided on the inner side of each middle panel skeleton 100, arc-shaped protrusions 120 are fixedly provided inside both ends of the strip-shaped groove 110, and a panel fixing strip 130 is snap-connected inside the strip-shaped groove 110.

[0039] Specifically, the panel fixing strip 130 realizes a firm connection with the middle panel skeleton 100 through the guidance of the strip-shaped groove 110 and the positioning of the arc-shaped protrusion 120, and also ensures the simplicity of the installation process. The cooperation of the strip-shaped groove 110 and the arc-shaped protrusion 120 provides a self-positioning function during the assembly process, ensuring the installation accuracy of the front panel and reducing the error of manual alignment at the same time.

[0040] In this embodiment, arc-shaped grooves 131 adapted to the arc-shaped protrusions 120 are provided at both ends of the panel fixing strip 130, and a plurality of screw holes 132 are provided on the surface of the panel fixing strip 130.

[0041] Specifically, the set screw holes 132 provide additional mechanical fixing means for the front panel. The panel fixing strip 130 is installed with the screw holes 132 and the screw holes reserved on the tank body by using screws, effectively preventing the front panel from loosening or falling off when subjected to external forces, and at the same time ensuring the flatness of the surface of the panel 700.

[0042] Of course, in order to further ensure the limiting and inserting effect of the limiting structure 300, a limiting post 313 fixedly connected to the skeleton is provided on one side of the limiting buckle groove 312, and a limiting hole 314 fixedly connected to the skeleton is provided on one side of the limiting buckle 311. When two adjacent skeletons are assembled, the limiting post 313 is inserted into the limiting hole 314 at the corresponding position.

[0043] Embodiment 2

[0044] Please refer to Figures 8-10 , this embodiment further provides a front panel structure applicable to an air energy water heater, which also includes a middle panel skeleton 100, an upper panel skeleton 400 and a lower panel skeleton 500. The panel 700 is divided into multiple pieces, and the multiple pieces of the panel 7 are respectively integrally formed with the middle panel skeleton 100, the upper panel skeleton 400 and the lower panel skeleton 500. When the middle panel skeleton 100, the upper panel skeleton 400 and the lower panel skeleton 500 are assembled, a front panel structure is formed;

[0045] Step-shaped grooves 900 and step-shaped protrusions 910 are respectively provided at the top and bottom of the middle panel skeleton 100, and the step-shaped grooves 900 and step-shaped protrusions 910 are respectively engaged with the step-shaped protrusions 910 and step-shaped grooves 900 provided at the bottom of the upper panel skeleton 400 and the top of the lower panel skeleton 500.

[0046] In order to ensure the structural stability of this front panel structure, a limiting structure 300 is also provided between the middle panel skeleton 100, the upper panel skeleton 400 and the lower panel skeleton 500;

[0047] This limiting structure of this limiting structure 300 also includes a first limiting mechanism 310. At the same time, in order to further increase the stability of the connection between adjacent skeletons, a second limiting mechanism 320 is also provided. The second limiting mechanism 320 includes an annular groove 321 fixedly connected to the top of the middle panel skeleton 100 and the top of the lower panel skeleton 500. The second limiting mechanism 320 also includes a circular insertion post 322 fixedly connected to the bottom of the middle panel skeleton 100 and the bottom of the upper panel skeleton 400. When the middle panel skeleton 100, the upper panel skeleton 400 and the lower panel skeleton 500 are assembled, the circular insertion post 322 is inserted into the corresponding annular groove321.

[0048] Specifically, the skeleton 100 on the panel, the upper skeleton 400 on the panel, and the lower skeleton 500 on the panel are snap-connected through the stepped groove 900 and the stepped protrusion 910, which not only enhances the structural stability of the front panel but also ensures the flatness and aesthetics of the combined panel 700. The cooperation between the circular insertion post 322 and the annular groove 321 increases the tightness of the connection, ensuring that the front panel remains firm and difficult to loosen after installation. It is particularly suitable for scenarios where the front panel needs to be frequently adjusted or replaced, providing higher structural strength and aesthetics.

[0049] The content not described in detail in this specification belongs to the prior art well-known to those skilled in the art. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or perform equivalent replacements for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent replacements, improvements, etc. made within the spirit and principle of the present invention shall be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A front panel structure applicable to an air energy water heater, comprising a panel middle skeleton (100), characterized in that: The top and bottom of the middle frame (100) of the panel are respectively connected with a replaceable upper panel frame (400) and a lower panel frame (500) through a plug-in mechanism (200) and a limiting structure (300); The plug-in mechanism (200) includes a plurality of plug-in buckles (210) fixedly connected to the top and bottom of the middle frame (100) of the panel, the bottom of the upper panel frame (400), and the top of the lower panel frame (500). A plurality of plug-in slots (220) are also provided between the plurality of plug-in buckles (210), which are opened on the top and bottom of the middle frame (100) of the panel, the bottom of the upper panel frame (400), and the top of the lower panel frame (500). When the middle frame (100) of the panel is assembled with the upper panel frame (400) and the lower panel frame (500), the plug-in buckles (210) of adjacent two frames are inserted into the plug-in slots (220) at corresponding positions; Panel positioning grooves (600) are provided on both sides of the front surfaces of the middle frame (100) of the panel, the upper panel frame (400), and the lower panel frame (500). A panel (700) that covers the surfaces of the middle frame (100) of the panel, the upper panel frame (400), and the lower panel frame (500) and has a matching size is snap-connected to the panel positioning grooves (600) on both sides; 2. The front panel structure applicable to an air source heat pump water heater according to claim 1, wherein: The limiting structure (300) includes a first limiting mechanism (310). The first limiting mechanism (310) includes limiting buckles (311) fixedly connected to the top and bottom of the middle frame (100) of the panel, the bottom of the upper panel frame (400), and the bottom of the lower panel frame (500). The first limiting mechanism (310) also includes limiting slots (312) opened on the top and bottom of the middle frame (100) of the panel, the bottom of the upper panel frame (400), and the bottom of the lower panel frame (500). When the middle frame (100) of the panel is assembled with the upper panel frame (400) and the lower panel frame (500), the limiting buckles (311) of adjacent two frames are inserted into the limiting slots (312) at corresponding positions; 3. The front panel structure applicable to an air energy water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: Grid-shaped hollow slots (800) are provided in the middle parts of the middle frame (100) of the panel, the upper panel frame (400), and the lower panel frame (500); 4. The front panel structure applicable to an air energy water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The middle frame (100) of the panel has at least one piece, and the adjacent two pieces of the middle frame (100) of the panel have the same size and are symmetrically assembled; 5. The front panel structure applicable to an air source heat pump water heater according to claim 4, characterized in that: A strip-shaped groove (110) is provided on the inner side of each piece of the middle frame (100) of the panel. Arc-shaped protrusions (120) are fixedly provided inside both ends of the strip-shaped groove (110). A panel fixing strip (130) is snap-connected inside the strip-shaped groove (110); 6. The front panel structure applicable to an air energy water heater according to claim 5, characterized in that: Arc-shaped grooves (131) with sizes adapted to the arc-shaped protrusions (120) are provided at both ends of the panel fixing strip (130). A plurality of screw holes (132) are provided on the surface of the panel fixing strip (130);