Thermostatic valve assembly

Abstract

The utility model discloses a thermostatic valve assembly, and relates to the technical field of water heaters. The thermostatic valve assembly comprises a valve body, a first connector, a second connector and a bypass pipe, the valve body is provided with a water mixing cavity, a first water inlet, a second water inlet and a mixed water outlet, and the first water inlet, the second water inlet and the mixed water outlet communicate with the water mixing cavity; the first connector is arranged on the valve body and used for communicating the water supply pipe, the first water inlet and the water inlet end of the water heater. The second connector is arranged on the valve body and used for communicating the water outlet end of the water heater with the second water inlet. The bypass pipe is connected between the first connector and the second connector and connected with the water mixing cavity in parallel. According to the technical scheme, the overflowing area of the thermostatic valve assembly in an internal circulation mode can be increased, the water flow of an internal circulation loop is guaranteed, and the heat exchange efficiency of the water heater is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of water heaters, in particular to a thermostatic valve assembly. Background Art

[0002] With the improvement of living standards, water heaters with constant temperature water outlet function are becoming more and more popular. The water outlet control can be achieved through a thermostatic valve in the water system of the water heater.

[0003] In the related art, the phase change water heater has an internal circulation preheating function, but the thermostatic valve in its water system easily intercepts the internal circulation water, resulting in insufficient internal circulation water flow and low heat exchange efficiency. Utility Model Content

[0004] The main purpose of the utility model is to provide a thermostatic valve assembly, which aims to increase the flow area during the internal circulation of the water heater, ensure the internal circulation water flow rate, and improve the heat exchange efficiency of the water heater.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the thermostatic valve assembly proposed in the present invention includes:

[0006] The valve body is provided with a water mixing chamber and a first water inlet, a second water inlet and a mixed water outlet communicated with the water mixing chamber;

[0007] a first connector, provided on the valve body, for connecting the water supply pipe, the first water inlet and the water inlet end of the water heater;

[0008] a second connector, provided on the valve body, for connecting the water outlet of the water heater with the second water inlet; and

[0009] A bypass pipe is connected between the first connector and the second connector and is connected in parallel with the water mixing chamber.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present application, the bypass pipe is provided with a cold water interface for connecting to the water supply pipe.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present application, the bypass pipe includes:

[0012] A bypass pipe body is arranged opposite to the valve body, and the cold water interface is arranged at one end of the bypass pipe body;

[0013] a first connecting pipe connecting the bypass pipe body and the first joint, the first connecting pipe being located on a side of the bypass pipe body away from the cold water interface; and

[0014] The second connecting pipe connects the bypass pipe body and the second joint, and the second connecting pipe is located between the cold water interface and the first connecting pipe.

[0015] In one embodiment of the present application, the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe are located on the same side of the bypass pipe body in the radial direction.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present application, the interface where the first connector connects to the first connecting pipe is defined as the first interface, the interface where the second connector connects to the second connecting pipe is defined as the second interface, and the central axis of the second interface is set parallel to the central axis of the first interface.

[0017] In one embodiment of the present application, the thermostatic valve assembly further includes a one-way valve, which is disposed on the flow passage between the cold water interface and the second water inlet, for unidirectionally directing the flow from the second water inlet to the first joint.

[0018] In one embodiment of the present application, the one-way valve is provided at the connection between the bypass pipe and the second joint.

[0019] In one embodiment of the present application, the flow cross-sectional area of the bypass pipe is defined as S0, the flow cross-sectional area of the first water inlet is S1, and the flow cross-sectional area of the second water inlet is S2, satisfying: S0>0.5S1, S0>0.5S2.

[0020] In one embodiment of the present application, a flow sensor is provided on the bypass pipe.

[0021] In one embodiment of the present application, the first joint is a three-way joint, and the three interfaces of the first joint are respectively connected to the first water inlet, the water inlet end of the water heater and the bypass pipe;

[0022] And / or, the second joint is a four-way joint, and a first flow channel and a second flow channel isolated from each other are formed in the second joint, the first flow channel connects the water outlet end of the water heater, the bypass pipe and the second water inlet; the second flow channel connects the mixed water outlet and the water outlet pipe.

[0023] In the thermostatic valve assembly of the present invention, the valve body is provided with a mixing chamber and a first water inlet, a second water inlet and a mixed water outlet connected to the mixing chamber. A first joint is provided on the valve body to connect the water supply pipe, the first water inlet and the water inlet of the water heater, and a second joint is provided to connect the water outlet of the water heater and the second water inlet, so that the water inlet and the water outlet of the water heater are connected to the first water inlet and the second water inlet respectively to form an internal circulation loop. A bypass pipe is connected between the first joint and the second joint, and the bypass pipe is connected in parallel with the mixing chamber. When in the internal circulation mode, the water flowing through the thermostatic valve assembly can flow through both the bypass pipe and the mixing chamber at the same time, thereby increasing the flow area of the thermostatic valve assembly, ensuring the water flow of the internal circulation loop, and improving the heat exchange efficiency of the water heater. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without paying any creative work.

[0025] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a water-using mode of a water system of a water heater according to the present invention;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the water path structure of the thermostatic valve assembly of the present invention in water use mode;

[0027] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the internal circulation mode of the water system of the water heater of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the water circuit structure of the thermostatic valve assembly of the present invention in the internal circulation mode;

[0029] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the appearance and structure of the thermostatic valve assembly of the present utility model;

[0030] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the thermostatic valve assembly of the present utility model;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the water system of the water heater of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the water system of the water heater after removing the mounting plate;

[0033] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure of the water system of the water heater in a top view;

[0034] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the water use mode of the water system of the water heater of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the internal circulation mode of the water system of the water heater of the present invention.

[0036] Description of Figure Numbers:

[0037] Thermostatic valve assembly 1; valve body 11; valve body 111; valve core 112; driving member 113; first water inlet 101; second water inlet 102; mixed water outlet 103; first connecting port 104; second connecting port 105; first connector 12; first interface 12a; second connector 13; second interface 13a; first flow channel 131; second flow channel 132; bypass pipe 14; cold water interface 14a; bypass pipe body 141; first connecting pipe 142; second Second connecting pipe 143; one-way valve 15; flow sensor 16; flow detector 17; heat exchanger 2; lug 21; water pump 3; heater 4; temperature booster 5; bracket 6; mounting plate 61; shock-absorbing pad 7; first bellows 81; second bellows 82; mixing valve 83; shower head 84; water outlet pipe 91; water supply pipe 92; first detector 93; second detector 94; third detector 95; fourth detector 96; pressure relief valve 97; check valve 98; angle valve 99.

[0038] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0040] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present invention involve directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indications are only used to explain the relative position relationship, movement status, etc. between the various components under a certain specific posture (as shown in the accompanying drawings). If the specific posture changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly.

[0041] At the same time, the meaning of "and / or" or "and / or" appearing in the full text includes three options. Taking "A and / or B" as an example, it includes option A, or option B, or an option in which both A and B are satisfied.

[0042] In addition, if there are descriptions involving "first", "second", etc. in the embodiments of the present invention, the descriptions of "first", "second", etc. are only for descriptive purposes and cannot be understood as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features. Therefore, the features specified as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of such features. In addition, the technical solutions between the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the fact that ordinary technicians in this field can implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or cannot be implemented, it should be deemed that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection required by the present invention.

[0043] Water heaters have become essential household appliances, providing both hot water for bathing and cooking. Water heaters with constant-temperature water delivery are increasingly popular. A thermostatic valve can be used within the water system to control water delivery. A traditional thermostatic valve assembly typically consists of a cold water circuit, a hot water circuit, a mixing chamber, a mixing channel, and a valve core. The valve core regulates the amount of cold and hot water entering the mixing chamber, ensuring that the mixed water flowing out of the mixing channel is at the desired temperature for the user.

[0044] When the traditional thermostatic valve assembly is applied to the phase change water heater, since the phase change water heater has an internal circulation preheating mode in addition to the water use mode, in the internal circulation preheating mode, the water in the circulation loop needs to heat the phase change material. At this time, the water in the internal circulation channel needs to pass through the hot water inlet, mixing water chamber, and cold water inlet of the thermostatic valve assembly in sequence. Since the flow area of the cold water inlet and the flow area of the hot water inlet are roughly inversely correlated (when the flow area of the cold water inlet is larger, the flow area of the hot water inlet is smaller, and vice versa), it is easy to intercept the internal circulation water channel, resulting in insufficient water flow in the internal circulation water channel and low heat exchange efficiency.

[0045] Based on this, the present invention proposes a thermostatic valve assembly 1 for use in the water system of a water heater. The assembly aims to increase the flow area of the water system in the internal circulation mode, thereby increasing the water flow rate in the internal circulation waterway and improving heat exchange efficiency. The structure of the thermostatic valve assembly 1 is described below.

[0046] In the embodiment of the present utility model, Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the thermostatic valve assembly 1 includes a valve body 11 , a first joint 12 , a second joint 13 and a bypass pipe 14 .

[0047] The valve body 11 is provided with a mixing water chamber and a first water inlet 101, a second water inlet 102 and a mixed water outlet 103 connected to the mixing water chamber; a first joint 12 is provided on the valve body 11, for connecting the water supply pipe, the first water inlet 101 and the water inlet end of the water heater; a second joint 13 is provided on the valve body 11, for connecting the water outlet end of the water heater with the second water inlet 102; a bypass pipe 14 is connected between the first joint 12 and the second joint 13, and is connected in parallel with the mixing water chamber.

[0048] In this embodiment, the valve body 11 can be understood as a component for mixing cold water and hot water. It has a mixing water chamber and a first water inlet 101, a second water inlet 102 and a mixed water outlet 103 connected to the mixing water chamber. The first water inlet 101 is connected to a water supply pipe (such as a tap water pipe) for supplying cold water, and the second water inlet 102 is used to connect to the water outlet end of the water heater. The mixing water chamber is used to mix the cold water entering from the first water inlet 101 and the hot water entering from the second water inlet 102, and after reaching the temperature required by the user, it flows out from the mixed water outlet 103, wherein the mixed water outlet 103 is used to connect to a water use terminal (such as a shower, a faucet, etc.). As an example, the valve body 11 includes a valve body 111, a valve core 112 and a driving member 113. The valve body 111 forms a mixing water chamber, a first water inlet 101, a second water inlet 102 and a mixed water outlet 103. The valve core 112 is arranged in the mixing water chamber. The driving member 113 is used to drive the valve core 112 to move in the mixing water chamber to adjust the opening of the first water inlet 101 and the second water inlet 102, thereby achieving the function of adjusting the amount of hot and cold water inlet.

[0049] The first connector 12 is provided on the valve body 11. It is understandable that the first connector 12 and the valve body 11 are an integrally formed structure or a split structure. When it is an integrally formed structure, it can be manufactured by processes such as 3D printing or mold injection molding; when it is a split structure, it can be fixedly connected by screw connection, snap connection or other methods. The first connector 12 is used to connect the water supply pipe, the first water inlet 101 and the water inlet end of the water heater, so that when in water use mode, the cold water in the water supply pipe can smoothly enter the mixing water chamber through the first water inlet 101, and at the same time, the cold water in the water supply pipe can smoothly enter the water inlet end of the water heater; in the internal circulation mode, the first water inlet 101 is connected to the water inlet end of the water heater, so that the water outlet end of the water heater, the mixing water chamber and the water inlet end of the water heater can form an internal circulation loop with the water heater.

[0050] The second connector 13 is provided on the valve body 11. It is understood that the second connector 13 and the valve body 11 may be integrally formed or separated. In the case of an integrally formed structure, it may be manufactured using processes such as 3D printing or mold injection molding. In the case of a separated structure, it may be fixedly connected using screws, snap connections, or other methods. The second connector 13 is used to connect the water outlet of the water heater to the second water inlet 102, so that hot water heated by the water heater can smoothly enter the water mixing chamber regardless of whether the water mode is used or the internal circulation mode.

[0051] The bypass pipe 14 is connected between the first joint 12 and the second joint 13. It is understood that the inlet end of the bypass pipe 14 is connected to the second joint 13 and the outlet end of the bypass pipe 14 is connected to the first joint 12, or the inlet and outlet ends of the bypass pipe 14 are respectively connected to the flow path between the first joint 12 and the second joint 13. The specific connection method is not limited here, as long as the bypass pipe 14 can be connected in parallel with the mixing chamber so that when in the internal circulation mode, the water flowing out of the water outlet of the water heater can flow to the water inlet of the water heater through the bypass pipe 14. In actual application, the number of bypass pipes 14 can be one, two, or more.

[0052] As can be seen from the above, when the thermostatic valve assembly 1 is applied to the water system of a water heater, the water path in the thermostatic valve assembly 1 will change according to different working modes of the water heater:

[0053] When using water mode, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The cold water from the water supply pipe enters the mixing water chamber through the first joint 12 and the first water inlet 101, and the other way flows to the water inlet end of the water heater for heating. The hot water heated by the water heater enters the mixing water chamber through the second joint 13 and mixes with the cold water provided by the water supply pipe. After reaching the temperature required by the user, it flows out from the mixed water outlet 103.

[0054] When in inner circulation mode, Figure 3 and Figure 4, the water supply pipe and the mixed water outlet 103 are closed, and the water inlet and outlet of the water heater, the thermostatic valve assembly 1 and the connecting pipes therebetween form an internal circulation loop. At this time, the water flowing out of the water outlet of the water heater can flow to the water inlet of the water heater through the bypass pipe 14 and the mixing water chamber. This increases the flow area of the water in the internal circulation loop when it passes through the thermostatic valve assembly 1, ensuring the water flow in the internal circulation loop. As an example, taking the water heater as a phase change water heater as an example, the inner tank is provided with a phase change material heat exchanger 2, and a heater 4 is provided between the inner tank and the thermostatic valve assembly 1. After being heated by the heater 4, the cold water enters the inner tank and exchanges heat with the phase change material heat exchanger 2 to become low-temperature water, and then enters the thermostatic valve assembly 1 through the second joint 13, passes through the bypass pipe 14 and the mixing water chamber, passes through the first joint 12, and then flows to the heater 4 for reheating, and the cycle continues until the phase change material is heated to a preset temperature.

[0055] In summary, in the thermostatic valve assembly 1 of the technical solution of the present invention, the valve body 11 is provided with a mixing chamber and a first water inlet 101, a second water inlet 102 and a mixed water outlet 103 connected to the mixing chamber. By arranging a first joint 12 on the valve body 11 to connect the water supply pipe, the first water inlet 101 and the water inlet end of the water heater, and a second joint 13 to connect the water outlet end of the water heater and the second water inlet 102, the water inlet end and the water outlet end of the water heater are respectively connected to the first water inlet 101 and the second water inlet 102 to form an internal circulation loop. By connecting a bypass pipe 14 between the first joint 12 and the second joint 13, the bypass pipe 14 is connected in parallel with the mixing chamber, so that when in the internal circulation preheating mode, the water flowing through the thermostatic valve assembly 1 can flow through the bypass pipe 14 and the mixing chamber at the same time, thereby increasing the flow area of the thermostatic valve assembly 1, ensuring the water flow of the internal circulation loop, and improving the heat exchange efficiency of the water heater.

[0056] In one embodiment of the present application, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The bypass pipe 14 is provided with a cold water interface 14a for connecting to a water supply pipe.

[0057] In this embodiment, a cold water interface 14a is provided on the bypass pipe 14, and the cold water interface 14a is used to connect the water supply pipe for supplying cold water. Then, the bypass pipe 14 can serve as the water inlet pipe of the water system of the water heater, that is, the bypass pipe 14 can be used as the water inlet pipe in the water use mode and as the bypass water channel in the internal circulation mode, so there is no need to set up an additional special water inlet pipe, which simplifies the pipeline layout, reduces the overall occupied space, and improves the assembly efficiency.

[0058] In actual application, the cold water interface 14a can be set at the end position or the middle position of the bypass pipe 14, and the cold water interface 14a can be connected to the water supply pipe by screw connection or snap connection.

[0059] In one embodiment of the present application, Figure 6 A flow sensor 16 is provided on the bypass pipe 14 .

[0060] By setting a flow sensor 16 on the bypass pipe 14, the water flow size can be detected. On the one hand, it can detect whether there is water in the water system, and on the other hand, it can detect whether the water system is circulating in the internal circulation mode to prevent the water heater from drying out.

[0061] As an example, the flow sensor 16 is installed in the bypass pipe 14 near the cold water interface 14a. It can detect the cold water flow entering from the cold water interface 14a in the water use mode, and can also detect the internal circulation water flow flowing in the bypass pipe 14 in the internal circulation mode.

[0062] In one embodiment of the present application, Figure 2 and Figure 4 The bypass pipe 14 includes a bypass pipe body 141, a first connecting pipe 142 and a second connecting pipe 143. The bypass pipe body 141 is arranged opposite to the valve body 11, and the cold water interface 14a is arranged at one end of the bypass pipe body 141; the first connecting pipe 142 connects the bypass pipe body 141 and the first joint 12, and the first connecting pipe 142 is located on the side of the bypass pipe body 141 away from the cold water interface 14a; the second connecting pipe 143 connects the bypass pipe body 141 and the second joint 13, and the second connecting pipe 143 is located between the cold water interface 14a and the first connecting pipe 142.

[0063] This embodiment illustrates the structure of the bypass pipe 14. The first connecting pipe 142 and the second connecting pipe 143 are respectively connected to the bypass pipe body 141. The first connecting pipe 142 is connected to the first connector 12, and the second connecting pipe 143 is connected to the second connector 13, thereby connecting the bypass pipe body 141 in parallel with the water mixing chamber. By providing the cold water interface 14a at one end of the bypass pipe body 141, with the second connecting pipe 143 located between the cold water interface 14a and the first connecting pipe 142, water in the bypass pipe body 141 flows from the second connecting pipe 143 to the first connecting pipe 142, regardless of whether the mode is water use or internal circulation. This prevents water resistance caused by changes in water flow direction when switching between different modes, ensuring smoother water flow and improving water output efficiency or internal circulation efficiency.

[0064] Optionally, the first connecting tube 142 and the first joint 12 can be connected by inserting and snap-fitting, and a sealing ring is provided at the joint between the first connecting tube 142 and the first joint 12 to seal and prevent water leakage.

[0065] Optionally, the second connecting pipe 143 and the second joint 13 can be connected in a plug-in + snap-fit manner, and a sealing ring is provided at the joint between the second connecting pipe 143 and the second joint 13 to seal and prevent water leakage.

[0066] Optionally, the bypass pipe body 141 , the first connecting pipe 142 and the second connecting pipe 143 are an integrally formed structure, and can be integrally formed by 3D printing or mold injection molding.

[0067] In order to facilitate installation, in one embodiment of the present application, Figure 2 、 Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 The first connecting pipe 142 and the second connecting pipe 143 are located on the same side of the bypass pipe body 141 in the radial direction.

[0068] In this embodiment, the first connecting pipe 142, the second connecting pipe 143 and the bypass pipe body 141 roughly form a "∩"-shaped structure. The first connecting pipe 142 and the second connecting pipe 143 are located on the same side of the bypass pipe body 141. Therefore, when assembling the bypass pipe 14, the first connecting pipe 142 and the second connecting pipe 143 can be docked and installed with the corresponding first joints 12 and second joints 13 on the same side of the bypass pipe body 141. This eliminates the need for multiple flipping and assembly, further improving assembly efficiency.

[0069] Further, if Figure 2 、 Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 , define the interface where the first joint 12 connects with the first connecting pipe 142 as the first interface 12a, and the interface where the second joint 13 connects with the second connecting pipe 143 as the second interface 13a, and the central axis of the second interface 13a is set parallel to the central axis of the first interface 12a.

[0070] In this embodiment, by arranging the central axes of the first interface 12a and the second interface 13a in parallel, the assembly direction of the first connecting tube 142 is consistent with the assembly direction of the second connecting tube 143, so that they can be docked and installed with the corresponding first joint 12 and second joint 13 along the same direction, thereby further simplifying the assembly steps and improving the assembly efficiency.

[0071] In addition, the valve body 11, the first connector 12, the bypass pipe 14 and the second connector 13 roughly form a "mouth"-shaped pipeline structure, which has a regular layout and does not interfere with each other, making it easier to connect and install the pipes.

[0072] In one embodiment of the present application, Figure 2 、 Figure 4 as well as Figure 6The thermostatic valve assembly 1 further includes a one-way valve 15 , which is disposed on the flow path between the cold water interface 14 a and the second water inlet 102 , for unidirectionally directing the flow path from the second water inlet 102 to the first joint 12 .

[0073] In this embodiment, a one-way valve 15 is provided on the flow channel between the cold water interface 14a and the second water inlet 102. When in water use mode, the one-way valve 15 blocks the flow channel between the cold water interface 14a and the second water inlet 102, thereby preventing the cold water entering from the cold water interface 14a from being mixed into the hot water before entering the second water inlet 102 in advance, thereby preventing the cold and hot water from mixing in advance and causing the outlet water temperature to be uncontrollable.

[0074] In the internal circulation mode, the cold water interface 14a is closed. At this time, the one-way valve 15 can open the flow path between the second water inlet 102 and the first joint 12, so that the water flowing out from the water outlet of the water heater can flow smoothly through the bypass pipe 14 to the first joint 12, thereby increasing the flow area of the internal circulation loop.

[0075] It is understandable that the specific installation position of the one-way valve 15 can be determined according to actual conditions. For example, it can be installed in the bypass pipe 14, or in the second joint 13, or inside the valve body 11, etc.

[0076] In practical applications, considering installation convenience, in one embodiment, the one-way valve 15 is provided at the connection between the bypass pipe 14 and the second connector 13. Specifically, the one-way valve 15 is installed at the connection between the second connecting pipe 143 and the second port 13a. During assembly, the one-way valve 15 can be first installed in the second connecting pipe 143 and then inserted into the second port 13a.

[0077] In one embodiment of the present application, the flow cross-sectional area of the bypass pipe 14 is defined as S0, the flow cross-sectional area of the first water inlet 101 is S1, and the flow cross-sectional area of the second water inlet 102 is S2, satisfying: S0>0.5S1, S0>0.5S2.

[0078] It can be understood that the first water inlet 101 and the second water inlet 102 are both connected to the mixing chamber, and the amount of cold water and hot water entering the mixing chamber is determined by the opening of the first water inlet 101 and the second water inlet 102. When the opening of the first water inlet 101 increases, the opening of the second water inlet 102 decreases, and when the opening of the first water inlet 101 decreases, the opening of the second water inlet 102 increases. Therefore, when in the internal circulation mode, in order to ensure a larger water flow rate, the opening of the first water inlet 101 and the opening of the second water inlet 102 are roughly half of their flow cross-sectional areas, that is, at this time, the flow area of the first water inlet 101 is 0.5S1, and the flow area of the second water inlet 102 is 0.5S2. In this embodiment, by setting the flow cross-sectional area S0 of the bypass pipe 14 to satisfy S0>0.5S1 and S0>0.5S2, more water can flow through the bypass pipe 14, further reducing resistance and increasing water flow.

[0079] Furthermore, the flow cross-sectional area S0 of the bypass pipe 14, the flow cross-sectional area S1 of the first water inlet 101, and the flow cross-sectional area S2 of the second water inlet 102 satisfy: S0>S1, S0>S2. This arrangement can further increase the flow area in the internal circulation loop and improve the water flow rate.

[0080] In one embodiment of the present application, Figure 2 、 Figure 4 as well as Figure 6 The first joint 12 is a three-way joint, and the three interfaces of the first joint 12 are respectively connected to the first water inlet 101, the water inlet end of the water heater and the bypass pipe 14.

[0081] In this embodiment, the first joint 12 is a three-way joint, which can simultaneously connect the first water inlet 101, the water inlet end of the water heater and the bypass pipe 14 without the need for additional special joints for assembly, thereby simplifying the pipeline layout.

[0082] Optionally, the first joint 12 may be a “T”-shaped joint, a “Y”-shaped joint, a “△”-shaped joint or a joint of other shapes.

[0083] In one embodiment of the present application, Figure 2 、 Figure 4 as well as Figure 6 The second joint 13 is a four-way joint, and a first flow channel 131 and a second flow channel 132 isolated from each other are formed in the second joint 13. The first flow channel 131 connects the water outlet end of the water heater, the bypass pipe 14 and the second water inlet 102; the second flow channel 132 connects the mixed water outlet 103 and the water outlet pipe.

[0084] In this embodiment, the second connector 13 is a four-way connector, so only one second connector 13 is required to realize the connectivity between the water outlet of the water heater, the bypass pipe 14 and the second water inlet 102, as well as the connectivity between the mixed water outlet 103 and the water outlet pipe. This arrangement further simplifies the piping structure and saves the overall structural volume.

[0085] As an example, the valve body 11 has a first connection port 104 and a second connection port 105. The first connection port 104 is connected to the mixed water outlet 103, and the second connection port 105 is connected to the second water inlet 102. The second connection port 105 is arranged on the periphery of the first connection port 104. Accordingly, the first flow channel 131 of the second connector 13 surrounds the periphery of the second flow channel 132, and is respectively connected to the corresponding second connection port 105 and the first connection port 104. The end of the second flow channel 132 facing away from the first connection port 104 is used to connect to the outlet pipe to discharge water to the water terminal. This arrangement makes the first flow channel 131 and the second flow channel 132 coaxial, reducing the number of interface orientations of the second connector 13, which not only reduces the number of pipe installation steps but also reduces the occupied space.

[0086] The utility model also proposes a water system of a water heater, such as Figure 1 and Figure 3 The water circuit system of the water heater includes a water heater and a thermostatic valve assembly 1. The specific structure of the thermostatic valve assembly 1 refers to the above embodiment. Since the water circuit system of this water heater adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be described one by one here.

[0087] In one embodiment of the present application, the water heater includes a heat exchanger 2, a water pump 3, and a heater 4. The water inlet of the heat exchanger 2 is connected to a first connector 12, and the water outlet of the heat exchanger 2 is connected to a second connector 13. The water pump 3 is disposed between the first connector 12 and the water inlet of the heat exchanger 2. The heater 4 is disposed between the water pump 3 and the water inlet of the heat exchanger 2. Specifically, the heater 4 is used to heat the water entering the heat exchanger 2. The heated water can then exchange heat with the phase change material in the heat exchanger 2 to store heat in the heat exchanger 2 or to heat the water again via the heat exchanger 2.

[0088] In this embodiment, the first joint 12 connects the bypass pipe 14, the first water inlet 101 and the water inlet end of the heat exchanger 2, and the second joint 13 connects the water outlet end of the heat exchanger 2, the second water inlet 102 and the bypass pipe 14, so that the first joint 12, the water pump 3, the heater 4, the heat exchanger 2, the second joint 13 and the valve body 11 of the thermostatic valve assembly 1 and the bypass pipe 14 are connected in sequence to form a loop.

[0089] In water use mode, cold water is introduced into the cold water interface 14a of the bypass pipe 14. One path of cold water flows sequentially through the first connector 12, the water pump 3, the heater 4, and the heat exchanger 2, where it is heated before flowing into the mixing chamber from the second connector 13. The other path of cold water flows directly through the first connector 12 into the mixing chamber, where it mixes with hot water before flowing out of the mixed water outlet 103 to the water terminal. It will be appreciated that in this mode, the water pump 3 and heater 4 can be turned on or off based on actual needs.

[0090] In the internal circulation mode, the cold water interface 14a and the mixed water outlet 103 are closed, and the water pump 3 and the heater 4 are turned on. Under the action of the water pump 3, the water in the internal circulation loop can circulate in the loop formed by the first joint 12, the water pump 3, the heater 4, the heat exchanger 2, the second joint 13, the mixing water chamber and the bypass pipe 14 until the energy storage material in the heat exchanger 2 is heated to a preset temperature.

[0091] As an example, the heat exchanger 2 may be a phase change heat exchanger.

[0092] In one embodiment of this application, please refer to Figure 5 、 Figure 7 and Figure 8 The water heater includes a temperature booster 5, which is provided between the water outlet of the heat exchanger 2 and the second joint 13. Specifically, the temperature booster 5 is used to heat the water coming out of the water outlet of the heat exchanger 2. On the one hand, it can cooperate with the heater 4 in the internal circulation mode to ensure the water temperature of the circulating water, so that the energy storage material in the heat exchanger 2 can store sufficient thermal energy. On the other hand, it can provide hot water to the thermostatic valve assembly 1 in the water use mode, so that the thermostatic valve assembly 1 can mix the hot water and cold water to form warm water of a preset temperature to meet the user's water demand. It can be understood that the presence of the temperature booster 5 can improve the heating efficiency of the water heater.

[0093] In one embodiment of this application, please refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 , the heater 4 and the temperature booster 5 are both cast aluminum electric heaters. It is understandable that the cast aluminum electric heater includes an aluminum body and an electric heating device inserted into the aluminum body, and the aluminum body is provided with a winding flow channel for water to flow through. When the cast aluminum electric heater is working, the heat generated by the electric heating device is transferred to the water in the winding flow channel through the aluminum body, thereby achieving the purpose of heating the water. In this process, the electric heating device and the water are isolated by the aluminum body, which reduces the risk of electric leakage and eliminates the need to set up additional anti-electric walls. In addition, compared with conventional heating structures, the cast aluminum electric heater has a smaller volume, which contributes to the miniaturization design of the water heater.

[0094] In one embodiment of this application, please refer to Figure 5 、 Figure 7 and Figure 8The water system includes a bracket 6, with the heat exchanger 2 mounted on one side of the bracket 6, and the heater 4, temperature booster 5, water pump 3, and thermostatic valve assembly 1 mounted on the other side of the bracket 6. This arrangement, with the water heater and heat exchanger 2 mounted on either side of the bracket 6, facilitates piping layout and achieves a compact design, while also reducing assembly difficulty.

[0095] In this embodiment, the water system includes a mounting plate 61 . The mounting plate 61 is mounted on the bracket 6 and abuts against opposite sides of the heater 4 and the temperature booster 5 together with the bracket 6 .

[0096] In one embodiment of this application, please refer to Figures 7 to 9 , the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5 are arranged side by side, the water pump 3 and the thermostatic valve assembly 1 are arranged on the same side of the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5, and are respectively opposite to the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5. It can be understood that the temperatures of the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5 are relatively high, and the side-by-side arrangement of the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5 can reduce the heat dissipation to the outside, which is beneficial to improving energy efficiency. At the same time, the water pump 3 and the thermostatic valve assembly 1 are arranged on the same side of the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5, and the various components of the water heater are reasonably arranged, which is beneficial to reducing space occupancy, and the water pump 3 and the thermostatic valve assembly 1 are respectively opposite to the heater 4 and the temperature riser 5, which can effectively shorten the pipe length between the water pump 3 and the heater 4 and the pipe length between the thermostatic valve assembly 1 and the water pump 3, which is beneficial to reducing water resistance and improving flow efficiency.

[0097] In one embodiment of this application, please refer to Figures 7 to 9 The water pump 3 is mounted on the bracket 6 via a shock-absorbing pad 7. Specifically, the shock-absorbing pad 7 is disposed between the water pump 3 and the bracket 6. The shock-absorbing pad 7 can be made of an elastic material such as silicone or sponge. This arrangement effectively reduces the noise generated by the water pump 3 during operation, thereby improving the user experience.

[0098] In one embodiment of this application, please refer to Figures 7 to 9 , the water inlet of the heater 4 is connected to the water outlet of the water pump 3 through the first bellows 81. Specifically, the water inlet of the heater 4 is opened at the outer periphery of the end of the heater 4 close to the bracket 6, and the water outlet of the heater 4 is opened at the outer periphery of the end of the heater 4 away from the bracket 6. The first bellows 81 is connected to the water pump 3 through a sealing ring such as a rubber pad. It can be understood that by connecting the water inlet of the heater 4 and the water outlet of the water pump 3 through the first bellows 81, the coaxial connection between the first bellows 81 and the water pump 3 and the first bellows 81 and the heater 4 can be achieved, which can reduce the stress generated at the connection position and reduce the risk of sealing failure caused by uneven compression of the sealing ring.

[0099] In one embodiment of this application, please refer to Figures 7 to 9, the water outlet of the temperature booster 5 is connected to the second joint 13 through the second bellows 82. Specifically, the water outlet of the temperature booster 5 is opened on the outer periphery of the end of the temperature booster 5 close to the bracket 6, and the water inlet of the temperature booster 5 is opened on the outer periphery of the end of the temperature booster 5 away from the bracket 6. The second bellows 82 is connected to the second joint 13 through a sealing ring such as a rubber pad. It can be understood that by connecting the water outlet of the temperature booster 5 and the second joint 13 through the second bellows 82, the coaxial connection between the second bellows 82 and the temperature booster 5 and the second bellows 82 and the second joint 13 can be achieved, which can reduce the stress generated at the connection position and reduce the risk of sealing failure caused by uneven compression of the sealing ring.

[0100] In one embodiment of this application, please refer to Figures 7 to 9 The water system includes a water outlet pipe 91 and a water supply pipe 92. The water outlet pipe 91 is connected to the second joint 13, and the water supply pipe 92 is connected to the bypass pipe 14. The water outlet pipe 91 and the water supply pipe 92 face the same side. Specifically, the water outlet pipe 91 is used to provide water of suitable temperature to the outside world, and the water supply pipe 92 is used to connect to the external water source. In this embodiment, the side of the heat exchanger 2 is provided with a plurality of lugs 21 for fixing to the wall. After the heat exchanger 2 is fixed to the wall, the arrangement direction of the water outlet pipe 91 and the water supply pipe 92 is vertical and downward, so that the water outlet pipe 91 and the water supply pipe 92 are connected to the water-using equipment (such as a shower) and the water source respectively. At the same time, the layout is relatively reasonable, which is conducive to reducing space occupancy.

[0101] In one embodiment of this application, please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 10 The water system includes a controller, a first detector 93, and a second detector 94. The first detector 93, the second detector 94, the heater 4, and the temperature booster 5 are all electrically connected to the controller. The first detector 93 is located between the water outlet of the heater 4 and the water inlet of the heat exchanger 2. The first detector 93 is used to detect the temperature of the water flowing out of the water outlet of the heater 4 and send a corresponding first signal to the controller. The second detector 94 is located between the water outlet of the temperature booster 5 and the second connector 13. The second detector 94 is used to detect the temperature of the water flowing out of the water outlet of the temperature booster 5 and send a corresponding second signal to the controller. The controller controls the heating power of the heater 4 and the temperature booster 5 based on the first and second signals, so that hot water of the appropriate temperature can exchange heat with the heat exchanger 2 and that hot water of the appropriate temperature can be mixed with cold water in the thermostatic valve to produce mixed water of the appropriate temperature. It should be noted that the thermostatic valve herein refers to the valve body 11, the first connector 12, and the second connector 13 as a whole.

[0102] In one embodiment of this application, please refer to Figure 2 、 Figure 7 and Figure 10The water system includes a third detector 95, which is installed on the water outlet pipe 91 and is electrically connected to the controller. The third detector 95 is used to detect the temperature of the water flowing out of the mixed water outlet 103 and send a third signal to the controller. This configuration allows the controller to obtain the temperature of the mixed water and adjust the heating power of the heater 4 and the temperature booster 5 according to the current mixed water temperature, thereby obtaining mixed water with an appropriate and stable temperature.

[0103] Specifically, the water system includes a mixing valve 83, which is installed on the water outlet pipe 91 and has a water outlet and two water inlets. One of the inlets is connected to an external water source, and the other is connected to the outlet of a third detector 95. In this embodiment, the outlet of the mixing valve 83 is connected to a showerhead 84, allowing tap water to mix with the mixed water to achieve a suitable bathing temperature. The presence of the mixing valve 83 allows the user to adjust the ratio of tap water to mixed water to achieve the desired water flow temperature.

[0104] In one embodiment of this application, please refer to Figure 2 、 Figure 7 and Figure 10 The water system also includes a flow sensor 17, which is located between the water inlet of the water pump 3 and the first connector 12 and is electrically connected to the controller. The flow sensor 17 is used to detect the flow rate of water entering the water pump 3 and send a corresponding electrical signal to the controller. This arrangement allows the controller to control the operating power of the water pump 3 based on the flow rate of water entering the water pump 3, thereby obtaining mixed water of the appropriate temperature.

[0105] In one embodiment of this application, please refer to Figure 2 、 Figure 7 and Figure 10 The water system also includes a flow sensor 16, a fourth detector 96, a pressure relief valve 97, a check valve 98, and an angle valve 99. These are sequentially arranged on the water supply pipe 92. The angle valve 99 connects to an external water source. Tap water passes through the angle valve 99, the check valve 98, the pressure relief valve 97, the fourth detector 96, and the flow sensor 16, and enters the bypass pipe 14. The angle valve 99 controls the amount of tap water entering, while the check valve 98 prevents backflow. The pressure relief valve 97 releases tap water when the water pressure is too high to maintain a safe pressure. The fourth detector 96 is electrically connected to the controller and detects the tap water temperature and sends a fourth signal to the controller. Based on the fourth signal, the controller controls the operating power of the water pump 3, the heating power of the temperature booster 5, and the heating power of the heater to obtain mixed water at an appropriate temperature.

[0106] In one embodiment of this application, please refer to Figure 2 、 Figure 7 and Figure 10 In water use mode, tap water flows along the water supply pipe 92, passing through the angle valve 99, check valve 98, pressure relief valve 97, fourth detector 96, and flow sensor 16 in sequence before entering the bypass pipe 14. Driven by the water pump 3, a portion of the tap water in the bypass pipe 14 passes through the flow detector 17, water pump 3, heater 4, first detector 93, heat exchanger 2, temperature riser 5, and second detector 94 in sequence, becoming hot water and entering the thermostatic valve. At the same time, another portion of the tap water (cold water) in the bypass pipe 14 also enters the thermostatic valve and mixes with the hot water to produce mixed water. The mixed water then flows out of the outlet pipe 91 and mixes with tap water from another source in the mixing valve 83, resulting in warm water at the desired temperature for the user. Finally, it enters the shower head 84 for the user to use.

[0107] In one embodiment of this application, please refer to Figure 2 、 Figure 7 and Figure 11 In the internal circulation mode, no tap water flows into the water supply pipe 92, and no mixed water flows out of the water outlet pipe 91. Driven by the water pump 3, the circulating water in the system passes through the flow detector 17, the water pump 3, the heater 4, the first detector 93, the heat exchanger 2 and the temperature booster 5 in turn, and arrives at the second detector 94. The one-way valve 15 is in the open state, allowing the circulating water to pass through. The circulating water at the second detector 94 can be divided into two streams, one directly enters the thermostatic valve and returns to the flow detector 17 to continue to participate in the heat cycle, and the other passes through the one-way valve 15 and the bypass pipe 14 and also returns to the flow detector 17 to continue to participate in the heat cycle. In this process, the water flow in the internal circulation loop can be guaranteed, and the heat exchange efficiency of the water heater can be improved.

[0108] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. All equivalent structural transformations made by using the contents of the present invention specification and drawings under the utility model concept, or direct / indirect application in other related technical fields are included in the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A thermostatic valve assembly, characterized in that: Applied to the water system of a water heater, the thermostatic valve assembly includes: The valve body is provided with a water mixing chamber and a first water inlet, a second water inlet and a mixed water outlet communicated with the water mixing chamber; a first connector, provided on the valve body, for connecting the water supply pipe, the first water inlet and the water inlet end of the water heater; a second connector, provided on the valve body, for connecting the water outlet of the water heater with the second water inlet; and A bypass pipe is connected between the first connector and the second connector and is connected in parallel with the water mixing chamber.

2. The thermostatic valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein The bypass pipe is provided with a cold water interface for connecting to the water supply pipe.

3. The thermostatic valve assembly according to claim 2, wherein: The bypass pipe comprises: A bypass pipe body is arranged opposite to the valve body, and the cold water interface is arranged at one end of the bypass pipe body; a first connecting pipe connecting the bypass pipe body and the first joint, the first connecting pipe being located on a side of the bypass pipe body away from the cold water interface; and The second connecting pipe connects the bypass pipe body and the second joint, and the second connecting pipe is located between the cold water interface and the first connecting pipe.

4. The thermostatic valve assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that The first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe are located on the same side of the bypass pipe body in a radial direction.

5. The thermostatic valve assembly according to claim 4, wherein: The interface where the first joint connects with the first connecting pipe is defined as the first interface, the interface where the second joint connects with the second connecting pipe is defined as the second interface, and the central axis of the second interface is parallel to the central axis of the first interface.

6. The thermostatic valve assembly according to claim 3, wherein: The bypass pipe body, the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe are an integrally formed structure.

7. The thermostatic valve assembly according to claim 2, wherein: The thermostatic valve assembly further includes a one-way valve, which is disposed on the flow passage between the cold water interface and the second water inlet, for unidirectionally directing the flow from the second water inlet to the first joint.

8. The thermostatic valve assembly according to claim 7, wherein: The one-way valve is arranged at the connection between the bypass pipe and the second joint.

9. The thermostatic valve assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that The flow cross-sectional area of the bypass pipe is defined as S0, the flow cross-sectional area of the first water inlet is defined as S1, and the flow cross-sectional area of the second water inlet is defined as S2, satisfying: S0>0.5S1, S0>0.5S2.

10. The thermostatic valve assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that A flow sensor is provided on the bypass pipe.

11. The thermostatic valve assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that The first joint is a three-way joint, and the three interfaces of the first joint are respectively connected to the first water inlet, the water inlet end of the water heater and the bypass pipe; And / or, the second joint is a four-way joint, and a first flow channel and a second flow channel isolated from each other are formed in the second joint, the first flow channel connects the water outlet end of the water heater, the bypass pipe and the second water inlet; the second flow channel connects the mixed water outlet and the water outlet pipe.

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