Piston type multi-way valve of water softener

Abstract

The utility model discloses a water softener piston type multi-way valve which comprises a shell and a sealing piston rod located in the shell, the upper end of the shell is provided with a water inlet, a water outlet, a siphon and a blow-off pipe, one side of the shell is provided with a saline water valve, the lower end of the shell is provided with a tank inlet and a tank outlet, at least eight sealing pistons are installed in the shell, and the sealing pistons are connected with the saline water valve. A salt suction opening grid, a sealing ring grid, a main shaft and a pull rod are sequentially arranged on the sealing piston rod. By changing different left and right strokes of the piston in the cylindrical shell, soft water making, soft water salt absorption and soft water injection of the water softener body can be realized, backwashing, forward washing and closing of the resin treatment box can be realized, meanwhile, a bypass operation function can be realized by combining the switch valve, and the cost is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of water softeners, specifically a piston-type multi-way valve for water softeners. Background Technology

[0002] A water softener is a water treatment device used in industrial production and households. During operation, it removes calcium and magnesium ions from the water using methods such as ion exchange resins, reducing water hardness and preventing scale formation. Soft water has a significantly different taste and texture compared to tap water; water treated by a water softener is called soft water, while ordinary tap water is called hard water.

[0003] The main structure of a water softener consists of a brine tank, a resin treatment tank, and necessary auxiliary equipment. During operation, the pump that comes with the water softener periodically pumps brine into the resin treatment tank through the brine valve opened by the valve core (under the control circuit board of the water softener, the pump and the brine valve work synchronously or stop working), ensuring that the water softener can work normally. When the water softener is working, the resin treatment tank, under its own function, exchanges ions between the sodium contained in the brine in the resin and calcium, magnesium ions in the water, greatly reducing the hardness of the water and thus obtaining soft water. After treatment, the soft water flows out through the outlet pipe of the resin treatment tank, thus completing the entire process of the water softener replacing water to obtain soft water.

[0004] Current multi-way valves for water softeners have limited functionality and poor integration. For example, patent application CN201822044069.0, entitled "A Piston-Type Multi-Way Valve for Water Softeners," can perform functions such as water softening, brine intake, backwashing, and water injection, but it cannot perform functions such as bypassing, water replenishment, and forward washing. Utility Model Content

[0005] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this utility model provides a piston-type multi-way valve for water softeners, which can realize the production of soft water by the water softener body, the absorption of salt by the soft water, the injection of soft water, the backwashing and forward washing of the resin treatment tank, and the closing. At the same time, combined with the switch valve, it can realize the bypass operation function, thereby reducing costs.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides the following technical solution.

[0007] A piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener includes a housing and a sealing piston rod located inside the housing. The upper end of the housing is provided with an inlet, an outlet, a siphon pipe, and a drain pipe, and a brine valve is provided on one side. The lower end of the housing is provided with an inlet and an outlet. At least eight sealing pistons are installed inside the housing. The sealing piston rod is provided with a brine suction grille, a sealing ring grille, a main shaft, and a pull rod in sequence.

[0008] As a further embodiment of this utility model, eight sealing pistons are installed inside the housing, namely a first sealing piston, a second sealing piston, a third sealing piston, a fourth sealing piston, a fifth sealing piston, a sixth sealing piston, a seventh sealing piston, and an eighth sealing piston, and the main shaft includes a first main shaft and a second main shaft connected together.

[0009] As a further embodiment of this utility model, the raw water flows through the inlet to the space between the fifth and sixth sealing pistons, then flows to the space between the fourth and fifth sealing pistons and enters the lower inlet tank. It then flows out through the outlet tank through the space between the second and third sealing pistons. At this time, the sealing piston rod is in the working position, the first main shaft is sealed by the first sealing piston, the second main shaft is sealed by the third and fourth sealing pistons, and the brine suction grid is sealed by the seventh and eighth sealing pistons.

[0010] As a further embodiment of this utility model, raw water enters between the fifth sealing piston and the sixth sealing piston through the inlet; at this time, the sealing piston rod is in the closed position, and the second main shaft is sealed by the fifth sealing piston and the sixth sealing piston.

[0011] As a further embodiment of this utility model, raw water enters between the fifth and sixth sealing pistons through the inlet, passes through one side of the sixth sealing piston and enters between the first and second sealing pistons through the middle pipe of the main shaft, and flows out from the outlet. At this time, the sealing piston rod is in the backwash position, there is a gap between the second sealing piston and the first main shaft, and there is a gap between the second main shaft and the fourth sealing piston. Some raw water enters from the outlet, flows from the inlet to between the third and fourth sealing pistons, and is discharged from the drain outlet.

[0012] As a further embodiment of this utility model, raw water enters between the fifth and sixth sealing pistons through the inlet, passes through the central pipe of the main shaft to the space between the first and second sealing pistons, and flows out from the outlet. At this time, the sealing piston rod is in the positive washing position, there is a gap between the second main shaft and the fifth sealing piston, the first main shaft is sealed by the second sealing piston, some raw water enters the lower inlet, flows from the outlet into the space between the second and third sealing pistons, and flows from the space between the fourth and fifth sealing pistons to the drain outlet for discharge.

[0013] As a further embodiment of this utility model, raw water enters the space between the fifth and sixth sealing pistons through the inlet, passes through the central pipe of the main shaft to the space between the first and second sealing pistons, and flows out from the outlet. At this time, the sealing piston rod is located at the counter-current salt suction position. When the raw water enters the outlet, it generates suction through the ejector. There is a gap between the eighth sealing piston and the pull rod, which draws the brine from the salt suction port into the ejector and mixes it with the raw water. The brine then enters the space between the second and third sealing pistons through the pipe, enters the tank outlet, and flows out from the tank outlet to the space between the third and fourth sealing pistons, and is discharged through the drain outlet.

[0014] As a further embodiment of this utility model, raw water enters between the fifth and sixth sealing pistons through the inlet, flows into the tank inlet, enters between the second and third sealing pistons through the outlet, and flows out through the outlet. At this time, the sealing piston rod is located at the counter-current water replenishment position, and there is a gap between the eighth sealing piston and the pull rod. Some soft water flows from the pipeline through the ejector into the brine inlet tank.

[0015] As a further embodiment of this utility model, raw water enters between the fifth and sixth sealing pistons through the inlet. The raw water will pass through the central pipe of the main shaft to the space between the first and second sealing pistons and flow out from the outlet. There is a gap between the second main shaft and the fifth sealing piston. Some raw water flows in from the tank inlet. The drain outlet is closed. At this time, the sealing piston rod is in the bypass position.

[0016] As a further embodiment of this utility model, the sealing piston rod stroke is driven by a stepper motor. The stepper motor is connected to an eccentric wheel and a positioning device. The eccentric wheel is connected to a motor pull rod, which drives the sealing piston rod to move. The positioning device is used to position the stepper motor stroke.

[0017] This utility model has the following beneficial effects:

[0018] This invention enables the water softener to produce soft water, absorb salt, inject soft water, backwash and forward wash the resin treatment tank, and shut down by changing the piston's left and right strokes inside the cylindrical shell. It also allows for bypass operation by combining the switch valve, thus reducing costs.

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the structural features and effects of this utility model, the following detailed description of this utility model is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener mentioned in this utility model.

[0021] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of the working position of a piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener mentioned in this utility model.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the closed position of a piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener mentioned in this utility model.

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the backwash position of a piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener mentioned in this utility model.

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the positive wash position of a piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener mentioned in this utility model.

[0025] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the backflow salt intake of a piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener mentioned in this utility model.

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the backflow water supply level of a piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener mentioned in this utility model.

[0027] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the bypass position of a piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener mentioned in this utility model.

[0028] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the sealing piston rod mentioned in this utility model.

[0029] Figure 10 , Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the stepper motor drive method mentioned in this utility model.

[0030] Figure 12 This is the positioning principle diagram mentioned in this utility model.

[0031] Figure 13 This is the positioning flowchart mentioned in this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and relevant knowledge. Obviously, the described applications are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments.

[0033] See Figure 1As shown, a piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener also includes a cylindrical shell, a sealed piston rod 1, an inlet 18, an outlet 13, a siphon pipe, and a drain pipe 16 at the upper end of the shell, a brine valve 12 on one side, an inlet 21 and an outlet 22 at the lower end of the shell, and a switch valve 17 on the drain pipe 16. Inside the shell, on the upper left, there is a partition plate. The gap between the partition plate and the upper and left ends of the cylindrical shell forms the siphon pipe. Eight sealed pistons are installed inside the shell, and a piston is installed on the right end of the movable rod. This invention, by changing the piston's left and right strokes inside the cylindrical shell, enables the water softener to produce soft water, absorb salt from the soft water, inject soft water, backwash the resin treatment tank, perform forward washing, and shut off. Combined with the switch valve 17, it can also achieve bypass operation, reducing costs.

[0034] In this utility model, preferably, eight sealing pistons are installed inside the housing, namely, a first sealing piston 4, a second sealing piston 5, a third sealing piston 6, a fourth sealing piston 7, a fifth sealing piston 8, a sixth sealing piston 9, a seventh sealing piston 10, and an eighth sealing piston 11, as shown in the reference. Figure 9 As shown, the spindle includes a first spindle 2 and a second spindle 3 connected together. See also... Figure 9 The schematic diagram of the sealing piston rod shown includes a grid 23 at the brine inlet, a sealing ring grid 24, a first main shaft 2, a second main shaft 3, and a motor pull rod 25. In this invention, the main shaft water passage is such that raw water enters from port 26 on one side of the main shaft and flows out from the other end 27.

[0035] In this invention, the sealing piston rod stroke is driven by a stepper motor 28, which is connected to an eccentric wheel 29. The eccentric wheel 29 is connected to a motor pull rod 25, which is connected to the sealing piston rod 19. By introducing a stepper motor to drive the motor pull rod 25, a piston drive positioning system with a simple structure and low cost can be achieved.

[0036] Further preferably, the stepper motor 28 is connected to a positioning device 30; the positioning device 30 is used to position the stroke of the stepper motor 28 to verify the stroke of the stepper motor 28, as shown in the reference. Figure 13 As shown, the stepper motor's stroke is calibrated by the positioning device. If correct, regeneration and further optimization are performed. When the stepper motor has traveled one stroke, and the position of the eccentric wheel positioned by the positioning device matches that stroke, the next regeneration step is performed. If they do not match, the stepper motor returns to its original position. The specific working principle is as follows: Figure 4 As shown.

[0037] In this invention, the stepper motor not only possesses very high positioning accuracy but can also precisely calculate the angle and the stroke required to reach the desired functional position, driving the piston to move. Positioning is not required for every functional position; only one or a few points need to be selected as calibration points for the piston movement. The positioning device can employ methods including, but not limited to, blocking and limiting mechanisms to determine the position.

[0038] In this invention, other positions utilize motors capable of calculating angles and strokes, including but not limited to stepper motors, servo motors, and programmable motors. Position is precisely calculated and controlled via software programs, eliminating the need for additional sensors or limit devices for positioning signal output. By replacing hardware sensing with algorithms, the circuitry is simplified, costs are reduced, and reliability is improved.

[0039] In this invention, the stepper motor-driven positioning includes the following steps:

[0040] Prior to this, the angle and stroke of the eccentric wheel driven by the motor were measured and calculated based on the different distances at different functional positions of the piston rod. (Refer to...) Figure 12 As shown, the different lengths of piston rods A and B represent different functional positions.

[0041] Step 1, Determining the initial position: When the stepper motor drives the eccentric wheel to start making circular motion, a signal is obtained through the positioning device, and the motor will define that the piston is in the initial position at this time.

[0042] Step 2: Start the motor to drive the piston to move forward.

[0043] Step 3: The eccentric wheel pulls the piston rod to move, and the angle of the motor rotation is recorded.

[0044] Step 4, piston travel positioning; when the piston travels, the functional position of the piston rod is determined based on the angle and stroke of the motor (calculate the piston's travel stroke). When the piston is found to have reached the functional position, the motor is immediately stopped. At this time, the piston position is the required position.

[0045] Step 5: When the piston passes the initial position (calibration point), perform position calibration.

[0046] When diagnosing equipment malfunctions: When the motor is stalled, the motor current will increase. This can be determined by detecting the motor current. When motor stall is detected, the piston is defined as being in a problematic state (position). Similarly, when a calibration point signal cannot be obtained after passing the calibration point, the piston is defined as being in a problematic position.

[0047] This invention reduces circuit hardware costs and complexity during the driving process by introducing a stepper motor and positioning device. With reduced hardware, the likelihood of failure is further lowered (circuit reliability is improved). The structure is simpler, using algorithms to replace hardware sensing, simplifying the circuit, reducing costs, and improving reliability. Long-term use allows for software calibration, ensuring accurate feedback. The transmission mechanism is simplified, improving structural reliability. In this invention, the stepper motor (not limited to stepper motors, but also servo motors, programmable motors, etc.) requires no brushes, resulting in a lifespan far exceeding that of current brushed DC motors. By using a brushless motor combined with an eccentric wheel for direct drive, speed adjustment via various gears is eliminated. The motor operates with low noise, providing a quiet and user-friendly experience.

[0048] In this invention, a stepper motor and positioning device are applied to a multi-way valve product for water treatment. The motor, including but not limited to stepper motors, servo motors, and programmable motors, can calculate angles and strokes. The control position is precisely calculated via software, or the initial position is determined using methods including but not limited to blocking and limiting, with only the origin position. No position sensor outputs positioning signals for other positions, thereby reducing circuit hardware costs and complexity during the drive process. With reduced hardware, the possibility of failure is further reduced. Algorithms replace hardware sensors, simplifying the circuit, reducing costs, and improving reliability. Long-term use allows for accurate calibration via software. The transmission mechanism is simplified, and structural reliability is improved.

[0049] The following provides specific embodiments of this utility model.

[0050] Example 1: The working position of a piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener. At this time, the sealing piston rod stroke is driven to the working position by a stepper motor, referring to... Figure 2 As shown;

[0051] Raw water flows through inlet 18 to between the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9, then flows to between the fourth sealing piston 7 and the fifth sealing piston 8 and enters the tank inlet 21. It flows out from the tank outlet 22 through the second sealing piston 5 and the third sealing piston 6 and out through the outlet 13. At this time, the sealing piston rod is in the working position, the first main shaft 2 is sealed by the first sealing piston 4, the second main shaft 3 is sealed by the third sealing piston 6 and the fourth sealing piston 7, and the brine suction grid is sealed by the seventh sealing piston 10 and the eighth sealing piston 11. This position is the working position of the piston-type multi-way valve of the water softener. Specifically, the raw water enters the sealing ring grid formed by the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9 through the inlet 18, and flows to the sealing ring grid formed by the fourth sealing piston 7 and the fifth sealing piston 8. Due to the position of the main shaft, the second main shaft 3 is completely sealed by the sealing rings of the third sealing piston 6 and the fourth sealing piston 7, and the first main shaft 2 is sealed by the first sealing piston 4. Even if the raw water enters the main shaft, it cannot directly reach the outlet due to the sealing of the first sealing piston 4. At this time, the raw water can only enter the softening tank from the inlet, pass through the resin layer, and reach the sealing ring grid between the second sealing piston 5 and the third sealing piston 6 from the outlet. At the same time, due to the sealing of the third sealing piston 6, the water cannot flow to the sealing ring grid between the third sealing piston 6 and the fourth sealing piston 7, but can only flow to the sealing ring grid between the first sealing piston 4 and the second sealing piston 5, and flow out from the outlet to achieve the softening effect.

[0052] At this time, softened water will flow out from the first pipe 14 and the second pipe 15 to the ejector 20 on the siphon. However, due to the sealing of the sealing piston rod 19 and the sealing rings of the seventh sealing piston 10 and the eighth sealing piston 11, the water flow cannot flow out from the brine valve 12 brine suction port.

[0053] Example 2: The closed position of a piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener. At this point, the sealing piston rod is driven to the closed position by a stepper motor. (Refer to...) Figure 3 As shown;

[0054] Raw water enters between the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9 through the inlet 18. At this time, the sealing piston rod is in the closed position, and the second main shaft 3 is sealed by the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9. Specifically, the raw water passes through the inlet 18 to the sealing ring grid of the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9. At this time, both ends of the second main shaft 3 are completely sealed by the sealing rings of the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9, and the raw water cannot flow out of the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9 to enter the softening tank. The raw water can only stay in the grid of the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9 and cannot continue to flow, thus achieving the purpose of shutting off. When the user needs to modify the pipeline or needs to shut off the water inlet for other reasons, there is no need to operate the main water valve. Just start the motor to drive the pull rod and the main shaft to the closed position, shutting off the water inlet so that the raw water cannot flow through the machine.

[0055] Example 3: A backwash position of a piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener. In this position, the sealing piston rod is driven to the backwash position by a stepper motor. (Refer to...) Figure 4 As shown;

[0056] Raw water enters between the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9 through the inlet 18. After passing through the middle pipe of the main shaft on one side of the sixth sealing piston 9, it enters between the first sealing piston 4 and the second sealing piston 5 and flows out from the outlet. At this time, the sealing piston rod is in the backwash position. There is a gap between the second sealing piston 5 and the first main shaft 2, and there is a gap between the second main shaft 3 and the fourth sealing piston 7. Some raw water enters from the outlet and flows from the inlet to between the third sealing piston 6 and the fourth sealing piston 7, and is discharged from the drain outlet. Specifically, at this point, raw water enters the sealing ring grid of the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9 through inlet 18. Because the second main shaft 3 is completely sealed by the sealing ring, the raw water cannot reach the fourth sealing piston 7 and the fifth sealing piston 8 grid. Since the sixth sealing piston 9 is not sealed, the raw water reaches the first sealing piston 4 and the second sealing piston 5 through the central pipe of the main shaft and flows out from the outlet, reaching the water required for regeneration. At this point, because the first main shaft 2 is not sealed by the second sealing piston 5, there is a gap between the first main shaft 2 and the second sealing piston 5, and the raw water will be diverted from the outlet into the softening tank, flowing through the bottom of the filter media. Meanwhile, the second main shaft 3 is not sealed by the fourth sealing piston 7, and there is a gap between the second main shaft 3 and the fourth sealing piston 7. The raw water flows through the softening resin from the inlet to the fourth sealing piston 7 and the fifth sealing piston 8 grid, and flows to the third sealing piston 6 and the fourth sealing piston 7 grid, and is discharged from the drain port to achieve the purpose of cleaning the resin layer. Valve 17 is a normally open valve. At this time, water will flow through the first pipe 14 and the second pipe 15 to the upper ejector 20 and reach the brine suction port. Because the main shaft and the sealing piston rod 19 are located at the position of the pull rod, the brine suction port is completely sealed, so the water will not flow out from the brine valve 12.

[0057] Example 4: A piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener in the forward flush position. At this time, the sealing piston rod stroke is driven to the forward flush position by a stepper motor, as shown in the example. Figure 5 As shown;

[0058] Raw water enters the space between the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9 through the inlet 18, passes through the central pipe of the main shaft to the space between the first sealing piston 4 and the second sealing piston 5, and flows out from the outlet. At this time, the sealing piston rod is in the positive washing position, there is a gap between the second main shaft 3 and the fifth sealing piston 8, the first main shaft 2 is sealed by the second sealing piston 5, some raw water enters the tank inlet, flows from the tank outlet into the space between the second sealing piston 5 and the third sealing piston 6, and flows from the space between the fourth sealing piston 7 and the fifth sealing piston 8 to the drain outlet for discharge. Specifically, at this time, the raw water enters the sealing grid of the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9 through the inlet 18. Since the second main shaft 3 is completely sealed by the fourth sealing piston 7, the raw water will pass through the central pipe of the main shaft to the sealing grid composed of the first sealing piston 4 and the second sealing piston 5. The raw water flows out from the outlet to ensure that water can be used during regeneration. At the same time, since the second main shaft 3 is not sealed by the fifth sealing piston 8, water flows to the positive wash inlet, flows through the resin layer, and flows through the sealing grid composed of the second sealing piston 5 and the third sealing piston 6 from the central outlet. Since the first main shaft 2 is completely sealed by the second sealing piston 5, the water can only flow to the sealing grid between the third sealing piston 6 and the fourth sealing piston 7 and is discharged from the drain outlet to achieve the purpose of cleaning the resin layer. At this time, softened water will flow out from the first pipe 14 and the second pipe 15 and reach the ejector 20. However, due to the sealing of the sealing piston rod 19 and the seventh sealing piston 10 and the eighth sealing piston 11, the water cannot flow out from the brine valve (salt suction port) 12.

[0059] Example 5: A reverse flow brine suction position of a piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener. At this point, the sealing piston rod stroke is driven to the reverse flow brine suction position by a stepper motor, as described above. Figure 6 As shown;

[0060] Raw water enters the space between the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9 through the inlet 18, passes through the central pipe of the main shaft to the space between the first sealing piston 4 and the second sealing piston 5, and flows out from the outlet. At this time, the sealing piston rod is in the counter-current brine suction position. When the raw water enters the outlet, it generates suction through the ejector 20. There is a gap between the eighth sealing piston 11 and the pull rod, which draws the brine from the brine suction port into the ejector and mixes it with the raw water. The brine then enters the space between the second sealing piston 5 and the third sealing piston 6 through the pipe, and then enters the tank outlet. The brine then flows out from the tank outlet to the space between the third sealing piston 6 and the fourth sealing piston 7, and is discharged through the drain outlet. Specifically, raw water enters from the inlet 18 between the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9. At this time, the second main shaft 3 is completely sealed by the fourth sealing piston 7 and the fifth sealing piston 8, preventing the raw water from entering the softening pipe through the fourth sealing piston 7 and the fifth sealing piston 8. Instead, it flows from the middle water passage of the main shaft to the space between the first sealing piston 4 and the second sealing piston 5 of the sealing grid. Simultaneously, the second main shaft 3 is completely sealed by the second sealing piston 5, and the raw water flows out from the outlet, providing water for regeneration. When the raw water enters the outlet, it is diverted from the first pipe 14 to the ejector 20, where suction is generated. At this time, the position of the main shaft and the pull rod prevents the sealing piston rod 19 from being sealed by the eighth sealing piston. The sealing piston 11 is sealed, and the suction generated by the ejector draws the brine from the brine inlet into the ejector 20. When it passes through the ejector 20, it mixes with the raw water. The brine will enter the sealing grid between the second sealing piston 5 and the third sealing piston 6 through the second pipeline 15. Since the first main shaft 2 is completely sealed by the second sealing piston 5, the mixed brine passes through the sealing grid (second sealing piston 5 and third sealing piston 6) from the tank inlet into the softening resin layer, and from the tank outlet into the sealing grid (sealing grid between the fourth sealing piston 7 and the fifth sealing piston 8) and flows to the sealing grid (sealing grid between the third sealing piston 6 and the fourth sealing piston 7) and is discharged from the drain outlet, thereby achieving countercurrent regeneration.

[0061] Example 6: A reverse flow water supply level for a piston-type multi-way valve in a water softener. At this point, the sealing piston rod stroke is driven to the reverse flow water supply level by a stepper motor, as described above. Figure 7 As shown;

[0062] Raw water enters the space between the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9 through inlet 18, flows into the tank inlet, enters the space between the second sealing piston 5 and the third sealing piston 6 from the tank outlet, and flows out from the outlet. At this time, the sealing piston rod is at the counter-current water replenishment position, and there is a gap between the eighth sealing piston 11 and the sealing piston rod 19. Some softened water flows from the pipeline through the ejector 20 into the brine inlet tank. Specifically, raw water enters the sealing grid (the sealing grid between the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9) from inlet 18 and flows to the space between the fourth sealing piston 7 and the fifth sealing piston 8. Since the second main shaft 3 is completely sealed by the fourth sealing piston 7 and the first main shaft 2 is completely sealed by the first sealing piston 4, the raw water cannot exit from the outlet through the central pipeline of the main shaft. The raw water can only flow from the tank inlet through the softening resin layer through the sealing grid (the sealing grid between the fourth sealing piston 7 and the fifth sealing piston 8). The softened water is not completely sealed by the second sealing piston 5. After softening, the water flows from the outlet through the sealing grid (the sealing grid between the second sealing piston 5 and the third sealing piston 6) to the sealing grid (the sealing grid between the first sealing piston 4 and the second sealing piston 5) and is discharged from the outlet. At the same time, the first water pipe 14 and the second water pipe 15 are not sealed. The softened water reaches the ejector 20 through the water pipe. Since the eighth sealing piston 11 is not sealed due to the location of the main shaft and the grid, the brine suction port is opened. The softened water is replenished into the brine tank from the brine suction port, completing the water replenishment.

[0063] Example 7: A bypass position of a piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener. In this position, the sealing piston rod stroke is driven to the bypass position by a stepper motor, as described above. Figure 8 As shown;

[0064] Raw water enters the space between the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9 through the inlet 18. The raw water will pass through the central pipe of the main shaft to the space between the first sealing piston 4 and the second sealing piston 5 and flow out from the outlet. There is a gap between the second main shaft 3 and the fifth sealing piston 8. Some raw water flows in from the inlet. The drain outlet is closed. At this time, the sealing piston rod is in the bypass position. Specifically, at this time, the raw water enters the grid between the fifth sealing piston 8 and the sixth sealing piston 9 through the inlet. Since the second main shaft 3 is completely sealed by the fourth sealing piston 7, the raw water will pass through the central pipeline of the main shaft to the sealing ring grid (the sealing grid between the fourth sealing piston 7 and the fifth sealing piston 8). The raw water flows out from the outlet to ensure that water can be used during regeneration. At the same time, since the second main shaft 3 is not sealed by the fifth sealing piston 8, water will be diverted to the forward wash inlet, flow through the resin layer, and flow through the central outlet to the sealing ring grid between the second sealing piston 5 and the third sealing piston 6. Since the first main shaft 2 is completely sealed by the second sealing piston 5, the water can only flow to the sealing ring grid (the third sealing piston 6 and the fourth sealing piston 7) to reach the drain outlet. At this time, by controlling the closing valve 15, water cannot be discharged from the drain outlet 16, while the machine outlet can use water normally, thus achieving the bypass purpose.

[0065] In summary, this invention, by altering the piston's left and right strokes within the cylindrical shell, enables the water softener to produce soft water, absorb salt, inject soft water, backwash and forward wash the resin treatment tank, and shut down. Furthermore, by incorporating a switching valve, bypass operation can be achieved, reducing costs. The invention also utilizes a motor capable of calculating angles and strokes during operation, with precise position control via software, eliminating the need for additional sensors or limit devices for positioning signal output. By replacing hardware sensing with algorithms, the circuitry is simplified, costs are reduced, and reliability is improved. Furthermore, stepper motors and positioning devices are applied to multi-way valves used in water treatment. Motors capable of calculating angles and strokes, including but not limited to stepper motors, servo motors, and programmable motors, are employed. The control position is precisely calculated via software, or the initial position is determined using methods including but not limited to blocking and limiting, with no position sensor output for other positions. This reduces the cost and complexity of the circuitry during operation. With reduced hardware, the likelihood of failure is further decreased. Algorithms replace hardware sensors, simplifying the circuitry, reducing costs, and improving reliability. Long-term use allows for accurate calibration via software. The transmission mechanism is simplified, and structural reliability is improved.

[0066] The technical principles of this utility model have been described above with reference to specific embodiments, which are merely preferred embodiments of this utility model. The protection scope of this utility model is not limited to the above embodiments; all technical solutions falling within the scope of this utility model's concept are protected. Those skilled in the art can conceive of other specific embodiments of this utility model without creative effort, and these embodiments will all fall within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener, characterized in that, The device includes a housing and a sealing piston rod located inside the housing. The upper end of the housing is provided with an inlet, an outlet, a siphon pipe, and a drain pipe, and a brine valve is provided on one side. The lower end of the housing is provided with an inlet and an outlet. At least 8 sealing pistons are installed inside the housing. The sealing piston rod is provided with a brine suction grid, a sealing ring grid, a main shaft, and a pull rod in sequence.

2. The piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The housing contains eight sealing pistons, namely the first sealing piston, the second sealing piston, the third sealing piston, the fourth sealing piston, the fifth sealing piston, the sixth sealing piston, the seventh sealing piston, and the eighth sealing piston. The main shaft includes a first main shaft and a second main shaft connected together.

3. A piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The raw water flows through the inlet to the space between the fifth and sixth sealing pistons, then flows between the fourth and fifth sealing pistons into the lower inlet, and flows out through the outlet between the second and third sealing pistons. At this time, the sealing piston rod is in the working position, the first main shaft is sealed by the first sealing piston, the second main shaft is sealed by the third and fourth sealing pistons, and the brine suction grid is sealed by the seventh and eighth sealing pistons.

4. A piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener as described in claim 2, characterized in that, Raw water enters between the fifth and sixth sealing pistons through the inlet; at this time, the sealing piston rod is in the closed position, and the second main shaft is sealed by the fifth and sixth sealing pistons.

5. A piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener as described in claim 2, characterized in that, Raw water enters between the fifth and sixth sealing pistons through the inlet, passes through the middle pipe of the main shaft via the sixth sealing piston, and flows out from the outlet between the first and second sealing pistons. At this time, the sealing piston rod is in the backwash position. There is a gap between the second sealing piston and the first main shaft, and a gap between the second main shaft and the fourth sealing piston. Some raw water enters from the outlet, flows from the inlet to between the third and fourth sealing pistons, and is discharged from the drain outlet.

6. A piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener as described in claim 2, characterized in that, Raw water enters the space between the fifth and sixth sealing pistons through the inlet, passes through the central pipe of the main shaft to the space between the first and second sealing pistons, and flows out from the outlet. At this time, the sealing piston rod is in the positive washing position, there is a gap between the second main shaft and the fifth sealing piston, the first main shaft is sealed by the second sealing piston, some raw water enters the lower inlet, flows from the outlet into the space between the second and third sealing pistons, and flows from the space between the fourth and fifth sealing pistons to the drain outlet for discharge.

7. A piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener as described in claim 2, characterized in that, Raw water enters the space between the fifth and sixth sealing pistons through the inlet, passes through the central pipe of the main shaft to the space between the first and second sealing pistons, and flows out from the outlet. At this time, the sealing piston rod is in the counter-current brine suction position. When the raw water enters the outlet, it generates suction through the ejector. There is a gap between the eighth sealing piston and the pull rod, which draws the brine from the brine suction port into the ejector and mixes it with the raw water. The brine then enters the space between the second and third sealing pistons through the pipe, and then enters the tank outlet. It flows out from the tank outlet to the space between the third and fourth sealing pistons and is discharged through the drain outlet.

8. A piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener as described in claim 2, characterized in that, Raw water enters the space between the fifth and sixth sealing pistons through the inlet, flows into the tank inlet, enters the space between the second and third sealing pistons through the outlet, and flows out through the outlet. At this time, the sealing piston rod is in the counter-current water replenishment position, and there is a gap between the eighth sealing piston and the pull rod. Some soft water flows from the pipeline through the ejector into the brine inlet tank.

9. A piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener as described in claim 2, characterized in that, Raw water enters between the fifth and sixth sealing pistons through the inlet. The raw water will pass through the central pipe of the main shaft to the space between the first and second sealing pistons and flow out from the outlet. There is a gap between the second main shaft and the fifth sealing piston. Some raw water flows in from the tank inlet. The drain outlet is closed. At this time, the sealing piston rod is in the bypass position.

10. A piston-type multi-way valve for a water softener as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The sealing piston rod stroke is driven by a stepper motor, which is connected to an eccentric wheel and a positioning device. The eccentric wheel is connected to a motor pull rod, and the motor pull rod is connected to the sealing piston rod. The positioning device is used to position the stepper motor stroke.

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