Heating assembly and water supply equipment

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model provides a heating assembly and water supply equipment. The heating assembly comprises a sleeve, a heating body, a pair of end covers and a clamping piece, the sleeve is provided with a heating channel, and the heating body is used for heating water in the heating channel. A pair of end covers are arranged at the two ends of the sleeve, a water inlet and a water outlet are formed in the end covers respectively, and the heating channel is communicated between the water inlet and the water outlet. The end cover is connected to the sleeve through a clamping piece, a clamping part is arranged on the end cover, a stopping part is arranged on the outer side wall of the sleeve, and the clamping piece is clamped to the clamping part; and in the direction that the end cover is separated from the sleeve, the blocking part blocks the clamping piece. By means of the technical scheme, the structure of the heating assembly can be simplified, or procedures needed when the heating assembly is assembled can be reduced. Therefore, the cost of the heating assembly is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of water dispensers, specifically to a heating component and a water supply device equipped with the heating component. Background Technology

[0002] With people's pursuit of a healthy lifestyle, drinking hot water has become a habit for many. Currently, there are two main ways to provide hot water on the market. One is to heat a large amount of water to a first temperature, which is called storage heating, such as a hot water tank or kettle. The other is to heat the water flowing through the heating element, while the water not flowing through the heating element is kept at a lower temperature, which is called flow-through heating.

[0003] For the commonly available flow-through heating components on the market, some heating components use thick-film heating elements, that is, the surface of the heat-conducting pipe is decorated with a pattern formed by resistive material to heat the water flowing through the pipe; some heating components have heating tubes installed inside the pipe, and the water flows inside the pipe and passes over the surface of the heating tubes; and some heating components use electromagnetic coils to surround the pipe, so that the heat-conducting and electrical-conducting pipe itself heats up to heat the water flowing through it.

[0004] All of the aforementioned flow-through heating components are equipped with end caps for connecting the pipes to the supply and outlet water pipes. During assembly, the heating components typically need to maintain their integrity. Currently, commercially available end caps are usually fixed to both ends of the pipe using threads, adhesives, or other methods to ensure the integrity of the heating component. This makes the end cap structure relatively complex, or requires additional processes during production, increasing production costs and time. Utility Model Content

[0005] To at least partially address the problems existing in the prior art, embodiments of this utility model provide a heating assembly, comprising: a sleeve having a heating channel; a heating body for heating water within the heating channel; a pair of end caps at both ends of the sleeve; each end cap having an inlet and an outlet, the heating channel connecting the inlet and outlet; and a snap-fit ​​component, the end caps being connected to the sleeve via the snap-fit ​​component, the end caps having a snap-fit ​​portion, and a stop portion on the outer wall of the sleeve, the snap-fit ​​component snapping onto the snap-fit ​​portion; and the stop portion blocking the snap-fit ​​component along the direction in which the end caps detach from the sleeve. In summary, the above technical solution simplifies the structure of the heating assembly or reduces the number of steps required for its assembly. The process of machining the stop portion on the sleeve is relatively simple, and the snap-fit ​​component can use inexpensive standard parts. Because the processing and production of the sleeve and the second end cap are simpler, the cost of the heating assembly is reduced. During assembly, only force needs to be applied to the snap-fit ​​to open it to the appropriate size so that the stop can pass over the snap-fit, thereby reducing the difficulty of assembly and further reducing costs.

[0006] For example, the heating assembly includes a resilient seal, at least a portion of which is clamped between the end cap and the sleeve along the length of the sleeve. The resilient seal can be subjected to greater or lesser compression when the heating assembly is installed in place, thereby preventing the heating assembly from being unable to be assembled onto the object to be installed due to machining tolerances while ensuring a seal.

[0007] For example, each of a pair of end caps includes an end cap wall and a side cap wall extending from the edge of the end cap wall toward the sleeve. The side cap wall and the end cap wall together form a recess. Both ends of the sleeve are respectively inserted into the recesses of the pair of end caps. A snap-fit ​​portion is located on the side cap wall. The snap-fit ​​includes a pair of cantilever arms and a connecting arm connecting the ends of the pair of cantilever arms, such that the snap-fit ​​is U-shaped and perpendicular to the length direction of the sleeve. The connecting arm is located on the outer periphery of the side cap wall, and both ends of each of the pair of cantilever arms snap into the snap-fit ​​portion. The pair of cantilever arms are located on opposite sides of the sleeve along a first direction. A stop portion blocks the middle portion of each of the pair of cantilever arms. The first direction is perpendicular to the length direction of the sleeve. The connecting arm can abut against the surface of the end cap, limiting the snap-fit ​​in a suitable position. When the sleeve is subjected to an external force, the force of the stop portion acts on the middle portion of the cantilever arm, and the cantilever arm evenly distributes the external force onto the snap-fit ​​portions abutting at both ends of the cantilever arm. Because the sleeve has relatively higher strength than the end cap, this design can prevent the end cap from being damaged by large external forces.

[0008] For example, the stop includes an annular groove surrounding the sleeve, and the middle portion of each of the pair of cantilevers protrudes outward, such that the middle portion of the pair of cantilevers engages within the annular groove. When the end cap is subjected to a force disengaging from the sleeve, the middle portion of the cantilevers is less likely to disengage from the annular groove. The end-to-end spacing of the cantilevers is smaller than the size of the annular structure, making it less likely for the snap-fit ​​to move in the direction of cantilevers extension. Thus, once the annular structure is engaged with the annular groove, the snap-fit ​​will not be accidentally pulled out.

[0009] For example, the snap-fit ​​portion includes a pair of first through holes spaced apart along a first direction and a pair of second through holes spaced apart along the first direction. Both the first and second through holes penetrate the sidewall of the cover along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction and the length direction of the sleeve. Each of the pair of cantilevers passes through the first and second through holes sequentially, with the free end of each cantilever passing through the second through hole. The pair of second through holes are elongated holes extending along the circumferential direction of the sleeve, allowing the free ends of the cantilevers to separate from each other under external force, and the snap-fit ​​releases the sleeve. Providing through holes only for the cantilevers ensures sufficient strength of the end cap. Furthermore, such an end cap is relatively simple, and the assembly of the heating assembly is easier.

[0010] For example, the snap-fit ​​member and the snap-fit ​​portion can move relative to each other within a preset range along the length of the sleeve. Thus, while ensuring the performance of the heating component when installed on the part to be installed, by allowing the end cap and the sleeve to move relative to each other within a certain range, the elastic seal can absorb the installation tolerances during installation, making it easy to install the heating component on the part to be installed without shortening its lifespan due to prolonged stress.

[0011] For example, along the length of the sleeve, the stop and the snap-fit ​​can move relative to each other within a preset range. Thus, while ensuring the performance of the heating assembly when installed on the part to be installed, by allowing the end cap and the sleeve to move relative to each other within a certain range, the elastic seal can absorb the installation tolerances during installation, making it easy to install the heating assembly on the part to be installed without shortening its lifespan due to prolonged stress.

[0012] For example, the heating assembly further includes: a mounting bracket connected to the outer wall of the sleeve; and a thermostat mounted to the mounting bracket, the sensing surface of the thermostat being heat-conducting with the outer wall of the sleeve. When the heating element experiences dry burning, the temperature rises abnormally, triggering the thermostat to cut off the circuit in time. The mounting bracket mounted to the sleeve in the above manner is small in size and simple in structure, reducing manufacturing costs.

[0013] For example, the heating element is housed within a heating channel; the heating assembly also includes a thermostat, wherein: the outer wall of the sleeve includes a temperature-sensing plane, the inner wall of the sleeve opposite to the temperature-sensing plane abuts against the side surface of the heating element, and the temperature-sensing plane is in contact with the detection surface of the thermostat. In the event of dry burning, the heat from the heating element can be rapidly transferred to the thermostat, triggering its operation within a short time. This minimizes damage to the heating element and sleeve in the event of accidental dry burning, and does not affect subsequent use.

[0014] For example, the end cap with the water outlet includes a temperature sensor mounting portion, and the heating assembly also includes a temperature sensor, which is fixed to the temperature sensor mounting portion by a snap ring. This eliminates the need for adhesive to fix the temperature sensor, resulting in better fixation reliability and simpler assembly.

[0015] For example, each of the pair of end caps is provided with a fixing part for fixing to the part to be installed.

[0016] This application also provides a water supply device, which includes a housing and the aforementioned heating component, the heating component being disposed within the housing. This simplifies the assembly of water supply devices using such heating components and reduces costs.

[0017] This utility model description introduces a series of simplified concepts, which will be further explained in detail in the detailed description section. This utility model description is not intended to limit the key features and essential technical features of the claimed technical solution, nor is it intended to determine the scope of protection of the claimed technical solution.

[0018] The advantages and features of this utility model will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The following drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference as part of this invention, are provided for understanding the invention. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention and their descriptions, serving to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings,

[0020] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a heating assembly according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 2 for Figure 1 An exploded view of the heating assembly shown in the image;

[0022] Figure 3A According to Figure 1 A perspective view of the heating assembly of the embodiment shown from another angle;

[0023] Figure 3B According to Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the heating assembly in the illustrated embodiment;

[0024] Figure 4 for Figure 3B A partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the heating assembly shown;

[0025] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a heating assembly according to a second exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figures 6-8 These are partial enlarged perspective views of the heating assembly according to the third, fourth, and fifth exemplary embodiments of this application, respectively.

[0027] Figure 9 According to Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the heating assembly in the illustrated embodiment;

[0028] Figure 10 According to Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the heating assembly in the illustrated embodiment at another location, where part of the structure is hidden.

[0029] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0030] 100. Sleeve; 110. Heating channel; 120. Temperature measuring plane; 200. Heating element; 300. End cap; 301. First end cap; 302. Second end cap; 310. Fixing part; 320. Water inlet; 330. Water outlet; 340. Elastic seal; 350. Snap-fit ​​part; 351. First through hole; 352. Second through hole; 360. Temperature sensor mounting part; 400. Snap-fit ​​piece; 410. Connecting arm; 420. Cantilever; 500. Fixing bracket; 600. Thermostat; 610. Thermostat body; 620. Edge retainer; 700. Temperature sensor; 800. Snap ring. Detailed Implementation

[0031] In the following description, numerous details are provided to enable a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the following description merely illustrates preferred embodiments of the present invention, which may be practiced without one or more of these details. Furthermore, to avoid confusion with the present invention, some technical features well-known in the art have not been described in detail.

[0032] To fully understand the embodiments of this utility model, a detailed structure will be presented in the following description. Obviously, the implementation of the embodiments of this utility model is not limited to the specific details familiar to those skilled in the art. Preferred embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below; however, in addition to these detailed descriptions, this utility model may have other embodiments.

[0033] This application provides a heating component, such as Figure 1 As shown, the heating assembly may include a sleeve 100, a heating element 200, and a pair of end caps 300. For ease of understanding, the pair of end caps 300 are referred to as the first end cap 301 and the second end cap 302, respectively. (Reference) Figure 2The sleeve 100 has a heating channel 110, through which water flows from one end to the other and is heated. For ease of understanding, the sleeve 100 in this application is described in detail as a straight pipe, but this application does not exclude embodiments where the sleeve 100 is a curved pipe. The heating element 200 is used to heat the water in the heating channel 110. As described above, the heating element 200 may include a thick-film element, a heating tube, an electromagnetic coil, etc. In embodiments where the heating element 200 uses a thick-film element, the resistance pattern of the thick-film element can be set on the outer surface of the sleeve 100. In this case, the sleeve 100 can be made of a thermally conductive material, such as stainless steel, alumina ceramic, etc., thereby conducting the heat of the heating element 200 to the water flowing through the heating channel 110. In embodiments where the heating element 200 uses a heating tube, the heating tube can be set in the heating channel 110, and the wiring terminal of the heating tube extends out from the heating channel 110 and is electrically isolated from the water in the heating channel 110. For embodiments involving electromagnetic heating, the sleeve 100 is made of a material suitable for electromagnetic heating. A pair of end caps 300 are respectively provided with an inlet 320 and an outlet 330, as shown in the figure. The inlet 320 can be located on the first end cap 301, and the outlet 330 can be located on the second end cap 302. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the inlet 320 and the outlet 330 can extend along the length direction. In embodiments not shown, one or both of the inlet 320 and the outlet 330 can extend along a direction at an angle to the length direction, or even perpendicular to the length direction. A heating channel 110 connects the inlet 320 and the outlet 330. As shown in the figure, the inlet 320 and the outlet 330 on the end caps 300 can be configured in a shape that facilitates connection to external pipelines, such as a pagoda shape, thereby facilitating the connection of silicone hoses. Optionally, the inlet 320 and the outlet 330 can also be configured as quick-connect fittings.

[0034] A pair of end caps 300 are disposed at opposite ends of the sleeve 100 along its length. Exemplarily, when the heating assembly is fixed to the mounting component (e.g., within the housing of a water supply device), the pair of end caps 300 can apply a clamping force to the sleeve 100. Optionally, the pair of end caps 300 may be provided with protrusions that, when clamping the sleeve 100, may fit over the outside of the sleeve 100 or be accommodated within the heating channel 110 of the sleeve 100, preventing the end caps 300 from detaching from the sleeve 100. In some embodiments, a seal may be clamped between the pair of end caps 300 and the ends of the sleeve 100, with each end cap 300 having a clamping force toward the sleeve 100. In some embodiments, the end caps 300 themselves may be deformable or precisely fitted with the sleeve 100 to prevent leakage when clamped at both ends of the sleeve 100.

[0035] The heating assembly may also include a snap-fit ​​member 400. The heating assembly is typically assembled onto other equipment as a separate component. To ensure the integrity of the heating assembly during assembly, a pair of end caps 300 are connected to the sleeve 100 via snap-fit ​​members 400. For the end caps 300 connected to the sleeve 100 via snap-fit ​​members 400, a snap-fit ​​portion 350 may be provided on the end cap 300. A stop portion may be provided on the outer wall of the sleeve 100, and the snap-fit ​​member 400 snaps onto the snap-fit ​​portion 350. The stop portion blocks the snap-fit ​​member 400 along the direction in which the end cap 300 disengages from the sleeve 100.

[0036] The end cap 300 may be provided with a snap-fit ​​portion 350, and the outer wall of the sleeve 100 is provided with a stop portion. The snap-fit ​​member 400 snaps onto the snap-fit ​​portion 350. Along the direction in which the end cap 300 is separated from the sleeve 100, the stop portion blocks the snap-fit ​​member 400. For ease of understanding, the first end cap 301 will be used as an example for detailed description below.

[0037] The snap-fit ​​element 400 may include a snap ring, a pin, or any suitable shape. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the stop portion can be constructed as a groove on the sleeve 100. The groove can be provided only on one side of the sleeve 100 wall, or symmetrically provided on both sides of the sleeve 100 wall, or provided around the sleeve 100 wall. The snap-fit ​​member 400 snaps into the groove to limit the sleeve 100 in the length direction. Figure 5 A schematic diagram is shown of a snap-fit ​​element 400 snapping the sleeve 100 and the first end cap 301 together. As shown, the sleeve 100 may have a flange or boss formed around it as a stop. The snap-fit ​​element 400 can be snapped onto one side of the flange along its length to limit its movement. In another embodiment, it should be noted that the limiting here means that the relative positions of the sleeve 100 and the snap-fit ​​element 400 cannot move arbitrarily in at least one direction.

[0038] Taking the second end cap 302 as an example, in some embodiments, the second end cap 302 has a portion surrounding the sleeve 100, and the snap-fit ​​portion 350 can be configured as a through hole provided in this portion along a radial direction perpendicular to the length direction. The snap-fit ​​member 400 can be inserted into the through hole, thereby limiting the snap-fit ​​member 400 and the end cap 300 to each other in the length direction. Taking the snap-fit ​​member 400 as a U-shaped snap ring as an example, such as... Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the through hole can be connected in the circumferential direction around the length. Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the through-hole can expose a portion of the snap-fit ​​400, thus making the installation of the snap-fit ​​400 easier. Figure 4In the illustrated embodiment, the pair of cantilever arms 420 of the retaining spring can be respectively accommodated in two opposing through holes. In the longitudinal direction, the through holes can tightly fit the retaining member 400, thereby fixing the retaining member 400 to the second end cap 302 in the longitudinal direction. Alternatively, the through holes can have a clearance fit with the retaining member 400, allowing the retaining member 400 to move slightly relative to the second end cap 302 in the longitudinal direction. Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, the snap-fit ​​portion 350 of the second end cap 302 protrudes along the length direction from the side wall of the cap (as will be further described below), thereby limiting the snap-fit ​​member 400. In summary, the second end cap 302 and the sleeve 100 can thus be limited in the length direction with the snap-fit ​​member 400, ultimately making the second end cap 302 and the sleeve 100 completely fixed or movable within a small range in the length direction.

[0039] In summary, the above technical solutions simplify the structure of the heating assembly or reduce the number of assembly steps. The process of machining the stop portion on the sleeve 100 is relatively simple, and the snap-fit ​​component 400 can be a low-cost standard part. Because the manufacturing of the sleeve 100 and the second end cap 302 is simpler, the cost of the heating assembly is reduced. During assembly, only force needs to be applied to the snap-fit ​​component 400 to open it to a suitable size, allowing the stop portion to pass over the snap-fit ​​component 400, thereby reducing assembly difficulty and further lowering costs.

[0040] Exemplarily, both the first end cap 301 and the second end cap 302 may be provided with a fixing part 310, which is used to fix to the part to be installed. As mentioned above, under normal circumstances, the heating component is not used independently, but is part of a device. The part to be installed can be considered as the part of the device that receives the heating component. Taking the installation of the heating component into a water supply device as an example, the heating component can be directly installed into the housing of the water supply device, and the housing part of the water supply device used to install the heating component can be called the part to be installed. The heating component can also be installed onto a heating module and then installed inside the water supply device. In this case, the part on the heating module corresponding to the installation of the heating component is called the part to be installed. Figure 1As shown, taking the first end cap 301 as an example, the fixing part 310 may include lugs provided on both sides of the first end cap 301, with fixing holes provided on the lugs. Fasteners, such as screws, rivets, clips, or one or more of these, may pass through the fixing holes. The end of the fastener may be fixed to a hole in the part to be installed, or directly fixed to the body of the part to be installed. Specifically, for example, the part to be installed may have threaded holes, the positions of which correspond one-to-one with the fixing holes. In this case, a screw can be passed through the fixing hole and fixed to the threaded hole. The second end cap 302 may also have the same fixing part 310. In another embodiment, the part to be installed may be a plate-shaped part, and the screw may be a self-tapping screw, which passes through the fixing hole to create a fixing hole in the plate-shaped part to form a fixation. In some embodiments, the part to be installed may include clips that can be embedded in the fixing holes to fix the end cap 300. In some embodiments, the part to be installed may have one or more pins that are correspondingly inserted into one or more fixing holes, limiting the fixing holes at least in the length direction. If at least one fixing hole is not inserted with a pin, the fixing hole can be secured to the part to be installed using fasteners.

[0041] In an embodiment not shown, the fixing part 310 may include a groove provided on the end cap 300, into which a threaded post of the component to be installed may be embedded, the end of which is stopped by a fastener against the heating assembly. Alternatively, the fastener may be embedded in the groove and fixed to the component to be installed, thereby securing the end cap 300. This allows the heating assembly to be fixed to the component to be installed.

[0042] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3B For example, an elastic seal 340 may be provided between the corresponding ends of a pair of end caps 300 and sleeves 100, the elastic seal 340 being sandwiched between the end caps 300 and sleeves 100 along the length of the sleeve 100. The elastic seal can deform under compression to fill the gap between the end caps 300 and sleeves 100, providing a good seal. The elastic seal 340 may include materials such as rubber or sponge. Figure 2 As shown, the seal between the sleeve 100 and the pair of end caps 300 can include the following three types: sealing by compressing the seal only in the length direction of the sleeve 100, sealing by compressing the seal only in the circumferential direction surrounding the sleeve 100, and sealing by compressing the seal in both the length and circumferential directions, forming a double seal. When the heating assembly is installed onto the part to be installed, due to possible machining tolerances, the elastic seal 340 can be subjected to greater or lesser compression when the heating assembly is installed in place, thereby ensuring a seal while avoiding the heating assembly being unable to be assembled onto the part to be installed due to machining tolerances.

[0043] For example, in conjunction with the reference Figure 2 and Figure 9 Each of the pair of end caps 300 includes an end cap wall and a side cap wall extending from the edge of the end cap wall toward the sleeve 100, the side cap wall and the end cap wall together forming a recess. Both ends of the sleeve 100 are respectively inserted into the recesses of the pair of end caps 300, and a snap-fit ​​portion 350 is located on the side cap wall. The snap-fit ​​member 400 includes a pair of cantilever arms 420 and a connecting arm 410 connecting the ends of the pair of cantilever arms 420, such that the snap-fit ​​member 400 is U-shaped and perpendicular to the length direction of the sleeve 100.

[0044] The connecting arm 410 is located on the outer periphery of the cover side wall of the end cap 300, and the two ends of each of the pair of cantilever arms 420 are snapped to the snap-fit ​​portion 350; and the pair of cantilever arms 420 are respectively located on opposite sides of the sleeve 100 along the first direction, and the stop portion blocks the middle of each of the pair of cantilever arms 420. Figure 9 The diagram shows a first direction XX, which is perpendicular to the length direction of the sleeve 100. The connecting arm 410 can abut against the surface of the end cap 300, limiting the snap-fit ​​member 400 in a suitable position. The end of the cantilever 420 near the connecting arm 410 and the other end away from the connecting arm 410 abut against the snap-fit ​​portion 350 of the end cap 300, respectively. Thus, when the sleeve 100 is subjected to external force, the force of the stop acts on the middle of the cantilever 420, and the cantilever 420 evenly distributes the external force across the snap-fit ​​portions 350 at both ends of the cantilever 420. Since the sleeve 100 has relatively higher strength than the end cap 300, this design can prevent damage to the end cap 300 from large external forces.

[0045] For example, the stop includes an annular groove surrounding the sleeve 100, and the middle portion of each of the pair of cantilever 420 protrudes outward, such that the middle portion of the pair of cantilever 420 engages within the annular groove. As shown, the protruding portion of the middle portion of the cantilever 420 forms an annular structure, which is embedded in the annular groove, thereby having a larger contact area with the inner wall of the annular groove and being able to withstand greater external forces along its length. When the end cap 300 is subjected to a force disengaging from the sleeve 100, the middle portion of the cantilever 420 is less likely to detach from the annular groove. The end spacing of the cantilever 420 is smaller than the size of the annular structure, making it less likely for the latch 400 to move in the direction in which the cantilever 420 extends. Thus, after the annular structure is engaged with the annular groove, the latch 400 will not be accidentally pulled out.

[0046] Exemplarily, the snap-fit ​​portion 350 includes a pair of first through holes 351 spaced apart along a first direction XX, and a pair of second through holes 352 spaced apart along the first direction XX. Both the pair of first through holes 351 and the pair of second through holes 352 penetrate the cover sidewall along a second direction YY, which is perpendicular to the first direction XX and the length direction of the sleeve 100. Each of a pair of cantilevers 420 passes sequentially through the first through hole 351 and the second through hole 352, with the free end of each of the cantilevers 420 passing through the second through hole 352. Providing through holes only corresponding to the cantilevers 420 allows the end cap 300 to maintain sufficient strength. When installing the sleeve 100, the pair of cantilevers 420 of the snap-fit ​​member 400 can be first passed through the first through hole 351 and the second through hole 352 respectively, and then the free ends of the pair of cantilevers 420 can be expanded in opposite directions. This allows the central dimension of the cantilevers 420 to be larger than the dimension of the sleeve 100, allowing the sleeve 100 to pass through. After the sleeve 100 is installed in place, the free ends of the cantilever 420 can be released, or the free ends can be pressed together to match the size of the stop member, thereby limiting the stop member. To achieve the above technical effect, a pair of second through holes 352 are elongated holes extending along the circumferential direction of the sleeve 100, so that the free ends of the pair of cantilever 420 can be separated from each other under the action of external force, and the snap-fit ​​member 400 releases the sleeve 100. Such an end cap 300 is relatively simple, and the assembly of the heating component is also easier.

[0047] For example, along the length of the sleeve 100, the snap-fit ​​member 400 and the snap-fit ​​portion 350 are movable relative to each other within a preset range. Therefore, when installation tolerances exist, the resilient seal 340 can deform to absorb these tolerances, preventing the sleeve 100 and end cap 300 from being unable to move relative to each other due to a tight fit between the snap-fit ​​member 400 and the snap-fit ​​portion 350. For example, along the length, the stop portion and the snap-fit ​​member 400 are movable relative to each other within a preset range. With the resilient seal 340 provided, this allows relative movement between the stop portion and the snap-fit ​​member 400, allowing the resilient seal 340 to absorb installation tolerances. In some embodiments, each pair of the stop portion, the snap-fit ​​portion 350, and the snap-fit ​​member 400 is movable relative to each other. The relative movement of the snap-fit ​​member 400 with the snap-fit ​​portion 350 and the stop portion with the snap-fit ​​member 400 ultimately results in relative movement between the end cap 300 and the sleeve 100. Within the preset range, it can be assumed that when the end cap 300 and sleeve 100 move under the above conditions, they will not separate from each other, nor will they cause misalignment of the internal components of the heating assembly, thus affecting the performance of the heating assembly after installation on the mounting component. In some embodiments, when the end cap 300 and sleeve 100 move under the above conditions, water leakage between the sleeve 100 and the end cap 300 will also be prevented. Therefore, while ensuring the performance of the heating assembly when installed on the mounting component, by allowing relative movement of the end cap 300 and sleeve 100 within a certain range, the elastic seal 340 can absorb installation tolerances during installation, making it easy to install the heating assembly on the mounting component without shortening its lifespan due to prolonged stress.

[0048] For example, return to reference Figure 2The heating assembly may also include a mounting bracket 500. The mounting bracket 500 can be connected to the outer wall of the sleeve 100. As shown in the figure, the mounting bracket 500 can be a sheet metal part with an opening cut out for the thermostat 600 to pass through. The heating assembly may also include a thermostat 600, which can be mounted to the mounting bracket 500. The thermostat 600 may include a thermistor, a temperature control switch, a thermocouple, etc. Preferably, the thermostat 600 is a temperature control switch, which can activate and cut off the circuit when the temperature reaches a threshold, eliminating the need for a controller and making it simple and reliable. For ease of understanding, the thermostat 600 described below will be described in detail using a temperature control switch as an example. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the thermostat 600 may include a thermostat body 610 and a retainer 620, which can push the thermostat body 610 towards the mounting bracket 500. The retainer 620 and the mounting bracket 500 can be fixed to each other by means of, for example, rivets or screws. The detection surface of the thermostat 600 can be directly attached to the outer wall of the sleeve 100, or indirectly attached to the outer wall of the sleeve 100 through a heat-conducting material, allowing heat conduction between the two. When the heating element 200 experiences dry burning and the temperature rises abnormally, the thermostat 600 can be triggered to cut off the circuit in time.

[0049] The fixing bracket 500 can be fixed to the sleeve 100 by resistance welding, laser welding, or other methods, without damaging the structure of the sleeve 100, and the shape of the sleeve 100 is relatively simple. In an embodiment not shown, the sleeve 100 can be provided with holes for receiving fasteners, and the fixing bracket 500 is fixed to the sleeve 100 by fasteners. In this embodiment, the fixing bracket 500 acts as an adapter, which simplifies the structure of the sleeve 100 and eliminates the need to provide holes for receiving fasteners corresponding to the fixing holes on the flange 620. In summary, the fixing bracket 500 installed to the sleeve 100 in the above manner is small in size, simple in structure, and can reduce processing costs.

[0050] For example, the heating element 200 may include a heating tube housed within the heating channel 110. As shown, the heating tube may be configured in a serpentine shape to maximize its surface area while maintaining a constant outer diameter. The outer wall of the sleeve 100 may include a temperature sensing plane 120, which may be formed onto the sleeve 100 by stamping. Figure 10A cross-sectional view of the heating assembly is shown. As illustrated, both the inner and outer walls of the sleeve 100 at the location of the temperature sensing plane 120 are planar. The inner sidewall of the sleeve 100 opposite to the temperature sensing plane 120 abuts against the side surface of the heating tube, and the temperature sensing plane 120 is in contact with the detection surface of the thermostat 600. Thus, the rotation of the heating tube can be limited by the abutting side surface, while the heating tube has a large contact area with this side surface. The thermostat 600 typically has a flat detection surface, which also fits well against the temperature sensing plane 120. In the event of dry burning, the heat from the heating tube can be quickly transferred to the thermostat 600, triggering its operation within a short time. Therefore, in the event of accidental dry burning, damage to the heating tube and sleeve 100 is minimal, and subsequent use is not affected.

[0051] For example, the end cap 300 with an outlet 330 includes a temperature sensor mounting portion 360, and the heating assembly also includes a temperature sensor 700, which is fixed to the temperature sensor mounting portion 360 by a retaining ring 800. The temperature sensor mounting portion 360 shown in the figure may include a mounting channel along its length, along which the temperature sensor 700 can be mounted, such that the temperature-sensing portion of the temperature sensor 700 contacts the water in the heating channel 110. The temperature sensor 700 may include a thermocouple, a negative temperature coefficient thermistor (NTC), etc. The temperature sensor 700 shown in the figure has a boss in its center. The retaining ring 800 can pass through the upper temperature sensor mounting portion 360 and be positioned on the end cap 300 along a through hole perpendicular to the length of the sleeve 100. A portion of the retaining ring 800 can abut against the boss, thus positioning the temperature sensor 700 on the end cap 300. A sealing element, such as an O-ring, may be provided on the surfaces opposite the boss and the end cap 300 to provide a sealing effect. In an embodiment not shown, the temperature sensor 700 may further include an annular groove surrounding its surface, into which a retaining ring 800 engages to limit the temperature sensor 700. This eliminates the need for adhesive bonding to fix the temperature sensor 700, resulting in better fixation reliability and simpler assembly.

[0052] This application also provides a water supply device, which includes a housing and the aforementioned heating component, the heating component being disposed within the housing. This simplifies the assembly of water supply devices using such heating components and reduces costs.

[0053] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the directional terms such as "front", "rear", "up", "down", "left", "right", "horizontal", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", and "bottom" indicate the orientation or positional relationship, which are usually based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this utility model. The directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours of each component itself.

[0054] For ease of description, relative terms such as "above," "over," "on the upper surface of," and "above" are used here to describe the regional positional relationship of one or more components or features shown in the figures to other components or features. It should be understood that relative terms include not only the orientation of the component as depicted in the figure but also different orientations during use or operation. For example, if the components in the figures are inverted as a whole, "above" or "above other components or features" will include cases where the component is "below" or "under" other components or features. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." Furthermore, these components or features may also be positioned at other different angles (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or other angles), and this document intends to include all such cases.

[0055] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, parts, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0056] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in sequences other than those illustrated or described herein.

[0057] This utility model has been described through the above embodiments. However, it should be understood that the above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the utility model to the described embodiments. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that this utility model is not limited to the above embodiments, and many more variations and modifications can be made based on the teachings of this utility model, all of which fall within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model. The scope of protection of this utility model is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A heating assembly, characterized in that, include: A sleeve having a heating channel; A heating element, used to heat the water in the heating channel; The sleeve is provided with a pair of end caps at both ends; and the end caps are respectively provided with an inlet and an outlet, and the heating channel is connected between the inlet and the outlet; and A snap-fit ​​connector is used to connect the end cap to the sleeve. The end cap is provided with a snap-fit ​​portion, and the outer wall of the sleeve is provided with a stop portion; the snap-fit ​​component snaps onto the snap-fit ​​portion; and Along the direction in which the end cap detaches from the sleeve, the stop portion obstructs the snap-fit ​​component.

2. The heating assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heating assembly includes a resilient seal. At least a portion of the elastic seal is clamped between the end cap and the sleeve along the length of the sleeve.

3. The heating assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the pair of end caps includes an end cap wall and a side cap wall extending from the edge of the end cap wall toward the sleeve, the side cap wall and the end cap wall together forming a recess, the two ends of the sleeve being inserted into the recesses of the pair of end caps respectively, and the snap-fit ​​portion being located on the side cap wall. The snap-fit ​​component includes a pair of cantilever arms and a connecting arm connecting the ends of the pair of cantilever arms, such that the snap-fit ​​component is U-shaped and perpendicular to the length direction of the sleeve, wherein: The connecting arm is located on the outer periphery of the cover sidewall, and both ends of each of the pair of cantilever arms are snapped into the snap-fit ​​portion; and The pair of cantilever arms are located on opposite sides of the sleeve along a first direction, and the stop portion blocks the middle of each of the pair of cantilever arms. The first direction is perpendicular to the length direction of the sleeve.

4. The heating assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The stop includes an annular groove surrounding the sleeve, and the middle portion of each of the pair of cantilevers protrudes outward, such that the middle portion of the pair of cantilevers engages within the annular groove.

5. The heating assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The snap-fit ​​portion includes a pair of first through holes spaced apart along the first direction and a pair of second through holes spaced apart along the first direction. Both the pair of first through holes and the pair of second through holes penetrate the sidewall of the cover along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction and the length direction of the sleeve. Each of the pair of cantilever arms is sequentially inserted through the first through hole and the second through hole, wherein the free end of each of the pair of cantilever arms is inserted through the second through hole. The pair of second through holes are elongated holes extending along the circumferential direction of the sleeve, so that the free ends of the pair of cantilevers can be separated from each other under the action of external force, and the snap-fit ​​device releases the sleeve.

6. The heating assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, Along the length of the sleeve, the snap-fit ​​member and the snap-fit ​​portion can move relative to each other within a preset range; and / or Along the length of the sleeve, the stop and the snap-fit ​​can move relative to each other within a preset range.

7. The heating assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heating assembly also includes: A fixing bracket, the fixing bracket being connected to the outer side wall of the sleeve; and A thermostat is mounted on the mounting bracket, and the detection surface of the thermostat is heat-conducting with the outer wall of the sleeve.

8. The heating assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heating element is housed within the heating channel; The heating assembly also includes a temperature controller, wherein: The outer wall of the sleeve includes a temperature measuring plane, the inner wall of the sleeve opposite to the temperature measuring plane abuts against the side surface of the heating element, and the temperature measuring plane is in contact with the detection surface of the temperature controller.

9. The heating assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The end cap with the water outlet includes a temperature sensor mounting portion, and the heating assembly further includes a temperature sensor, which is fixed to the temperature sensor mounting portion by a retaining clip; and / or Each pair of end caps is provided with a fixing part, which is used to fix it to the part to be installed.

10. A water supply device, characterized in that, The water supply equipment includes: The shell, and The heating assembly as described in any one of claims 1-9, wherein the heating assembly is disposed within the housing.

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