Water inlet and outlet structure of vertical and horizontal dual-purpose electric water heater and electric water heater

Abstract

A water inlet and outlet structure of a vertical and horizontal dual-purpose electric water heater comprises a flow guide assembly matched with an external water inlet pipe, the flow guide assembly comprises a flow guide box, the flow guide box comprises a slow flow cavity, cold water discharged from a water outlet of the water inlet pipe is discharged through the slow flow cavity, and the flow guide box further comprises an overflowing cavity communicated with the slow flow cavity. A movable part is arranged between the overflowing cavity and the slow flow cavity, and the movable part acts under the action of gravity so that the overflowing cavity and the slow flow cavity can be communicated or separated. Compared with the prior art, the technical scheme provided by the utility model has the advantages that the structure is reasonable, water flow distribution is facilitated, the water flow reversing and buffering effects are good, disturbance to upper water is small, so that water temperature supply is stable, the material cost is low, the safety coefficient is high, the structural transformation autonomy is high, and a vertical and horizontal dual-purpose installation mode can be quickly adapted.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The utility model relates to electric water heater technical field especially relates to a vertical and horizontal dual-purpose electric water heater water inlet and outlet structure and electric water heater. BACKGROUND

[0002] The electric water heater on the market at present can be divided into: 1. Vertical electric water heater (vertical installation) 2. Horizontal electric water heater (horizontal installation) 3. Vertical and horizontal dual-purpose electric water heater (both) The conventional vertical electric water heater or horizontal electric water heater, its water inlet pipe, water outlet pipe, heating pipe etc. have been fixed position when leaving factory, thus can not be adjusted according to the actual situation of applicable scene again, if not according to the prescribed way to install, then can lead to hot water temperature instability, water shortage causes heating pipe dry burning, parts can not match use etc. A series of problems, even seriously to endanger user safety. And the vertical and horizontal dual-purpose electric water heater in the above category, because its installation flexibility (the failure rate caused by improper installation is reduced, the matching degree of parts installation is high), strong scene adaptability etc. Features are loved by users.

[0003] However, in the existing vertical and horizontal dual-purpose electric water heater product, when deciding to adopt vertical or horizontal installation mode, few can adjust the structure accordingly to adapt to the water inlet and outlet in the liner and then ensure the water temperature supply stability, simple structure and the like effect with the switching of installation mode.

[0004] For example, the authorized announcement number for CN213514441U, entitled "A standing and lying dual-purpose water inlet structure and a water heater comprising the structure", discloses that the water inlet pipe 1 is provided with a water inlet hole 11, which is arranged in an axial direction on the water inlet pipe 1. The water inlet structure further comprises a flow guide mechanism assembled with the water inlet pipe 1. The flow guide mechanism comprises an open-ended container 2. The internal space of the container 2 is divided into a vertical special-purpose flow guide cavity 23 and a horizontal special-purpose flow guide cavity 24 by a sleeve 21 for assembling the water inlet pipe 1 and a partition plate on the outer wall of the sleeve 21. The open end of the container is sealed by a cover 26. The cover 26 has a through hole for inserting the water inlet pipe 1 at the position corresponding to the sleeve 21, and a drain hole 27 is provided at the position corresponding to the horizontal special-purpose flow guide cavity 24. The sleeve 21 has flow guide holes 22 at the positions corresponding to the vertical and horizontal special-purpose flow guide cavities. When the sleeve 21 is assembled with the water inlet pipe 1, the vertical and horizontal special-purpose flow guide cavities are in communication with the water inlet hole 11 of the water inlet pipe 1 through the corresponding flow guide holes 22. When the water heater is installed vertically, the water inlet pipe is rotated so that the water inlet hole of the water inlet pipe is in communication with the flow guide hole of the sleeve at the position of the vertical special-purpose flow guide cavity. When the water heater is installed horizontally, the water inlet pipe is rotated so that the water inlet hole of the water inlet pipe is in communication with the flow guide hole of the sleeve at the position of the horizontal special-purpose flow guide cavity. The technical solution of the utility model, although the structure is adjusted by rotating the water inlet pipe to adapt to different installation methods of vertical and horizontal types, the water flow after turning is directly discharged from the drain hole 27 provided at the position of the horizontal special-purpose flow guide cavity 24, which reduces the buffering and dispersion effect through the stroke, and the structure cannot be adjusted by gravity. Only by rotating the water inlet pipe through external force can the structure be adjusted, which has poor initiative. Alternatively, the authorized announcement number for CN203432084U, entitled "A water inlet assembly for an electric water heater with ultra-high hot water output rate", discloses that the water inlet pipe 1 has a connecting device 11 at the bottom and a plurality of radial water outlet holes 12 at the upper part. The top of the water inlet pipe 1 is closed and made of plastic material. It also comprises a plastic cover 2 made of plastic material. The plastic cover 2 comprises a top plate 21, a flow guide plate 22, a buffer plate 23, a cylinder 24, and a connecting seat 25 on the top plate. The top end of the water inlet pipe 1 is fixedly connected with the connecting seat 25. The plastic cover 2 is integrally formed. The upper ends of the flow guide plate 22 and the buffer plate 23 are connected with the top plate 21. The flow guide plate 22 and the buffer plate 23 are uniformly distributed in a circular shape on the top plate 21. The technical solution of the utility model does not adjust the water inlet structure to adapt to vertical and horizontal installation methods, which cannot ensure the stability of water temperature supply for the vertical and horizontal electric water heater. Moreover, the plastic cover 2 needs to be installed in cooperation with the water inlet pipe 1, which increases the number of parts and the cost of materials, and has poor reversing buffering effect on water flow.Alternatively, the Chinese utility model patent with authorization announcement number CN211903279U, entitled "An Electric Water Heater with Water Outlet Power-Off Function", discloses: including an inner tank 1, an electric heating element 2, an electric heating element base plate 3, a water inlet interface pipe 4 provided on the inner tank, a cold water inlet pipe 5, a hot water outlet pipe 6, and a main control board (not shown in the figure). It also includes a water flow sensor 7 and an annular sealing gasket 8. The water flow sensor 7 includes a base 71, an impeller 72 with a magnet, and a Hall sensor 73. The base 71 includes a water inlet 711, an impeller cavity 712, and a water outlet 713. The impeller 72 is pivotally connected to the impeller cavity 712. The Hall sensor 73 cooperates with the magnet and is connected to the main control board. The water outlet 713 has an internal thread, and the water inlet pipe 4 has an external thread. The cold water inlet pipe 5 is made of plastic material. The inlet end of the cold water inlet pipe 5 has an annular seat plate 51. The annular sealing gasket 8 is located in the water outlet 713 of the base 71. The cold water inlet pipe 5 is inserted into the water outlet 713. The annular seat plate 51 presses the annular sealing gasket 8. The cold water inlet pipe 5 passes through the water inlet pipe 4 and extends into the inner tank 1. The external thread of the water inlet pipe 4 is screwed into the internal thread of the water outlet 713. The lower end of the water inlet pipe 4 presses against the annular seat plate 51. The upper end of the cold water inlet pipe 5 is closed, and two evenly distributed hooks 52 are provided on the top plate; the upper part of the cold water inlet pipe 5 is provided with several radial water outlet holes 53; it also includes a flow-stabilizing cap 9 with a lower opening, and a connecting seat 91 is provided on the top plate of the flow-stabilizing cap 9. The connecting seat 91 is hollow and open at both ends. The technical solution described in this utility model does not have a water inlet structure that can be adjusted accordingly to vertical and horizontal installation methods, and cannot ensure a stable water temperature supply for the dual-purpose electric water heater. It has poor buffering effect on water flow reversal. In addition, the water inlet interface pipe 4 on the inner tank also requires additional welding treatment, and the operation process is complicated.

[0005] For example, Chinese utility model patent CN203810732U, entitled "A Water Baffle Structure for an Electric Water Heater," discloses that the water baffle is installed at the bottom of the inner tank of the electric water heater. Figures 1-6It is understood that the water baffle of the electric water heater is installed over the outlet of the water inlet pipe of the electric water heater. The water baffle includes a main body 10 and a convex cavity 11, which is connected to the main body 10 and located on the upper right side of the main body 10. The convex cavity 11 is surrounded by a panel, a first steep wall 112, a second inclined wall 111, a third side wall 113, and a fourth side wall 114. A water inlet 12 is provided on the panel. The main body includes an upper panel 101 and front and rear side panels 102. The left and right sides of the main body form water flow guides. Multiple rows of water-blocking ribs 17 are provided at the right end of the main body, and the water-blocking ribs are located adjacent to the first steep wall 112. A water outlet 13 is provided on the upper panel of the main body, and a clearance 14 for avoiding the drain pipe of the inner tank of the water heater is provided at the left end of the main body. The inclination of the first steep wall is between 55 and 90 degrees, and the inclination of the second inclined wall is between 20 and 50 degrees. The inclination of the third and fourth side walls is greater than that of the second inclined wall but less than that of the first steep wall. This creates a convex cavity 11 with a cross-section that gradually increases from top to bottom. The cold water coming out of the inlet pipe flows downward through the convex cavity 11, and its flow rate decreases slightly. Since the inlet pipe is closer to the right side of the inner tank of the water heater and the drain pipe is closer to the left side, the shape of the first steep wall near the inlet side is made steeper, while the side wall away from the inlet side (the second inclined wall) is gentler. This guides more water towards the drain pipe and the outlet pipe, thus making the hot water evenly squeezed upward. The technical solution described in this utility model also lacks an inlet structure that can be adjusted to adapt to vertical and horizontal installation methods. Although it can press down and prevent cold water from rising through the baffle, it cannot adapt to various installation methods, nor can it utilize the water flow stroke to change direction or reduce flow velocity (the cold water coming out of the inlet pipe will be significantly dispersed and rush in different directions when it flows downward from the convex cavity 11, causing too much disturbance to the water layer, and it is also impossible to use the stroke of the water guiding device to change direction or reduce flow velocity). In addition, the inlet pipe must be inserted into the baffle, which cannot save on inlet pipe material. Alternatively, Chinese utility model patent with authorization announcement number CN205102407U, entitled "Flow guiding component for electric water heater and electric water heater having the same," discloses: a flow guiding component 100, including a flow guiding plate 1 and an inlet buffer cover 2. The baffle plate 1 divides the space inside the electric water heater tank into an upper space 11 and a lower space 12. The upper space 11 is located above the baffle plate 1, and the lower space 12 is located below the baffle plate 1. Cold water in the lower space 12 flows into the upper space 11 and is heated into hot water. The baffle plate 1 is provided with a buffer cover mounting hole 13 and a water outlet guide channel 14 that respectively connect the upper space 11 and the lower space 12. The water inlet buffer cover 2 is installed in the buffer cover mounting hole 13. The water inlet buffer cover 2 is provided with a cover inlet 21 that communicates with the upper space 11 and a cover outlet 22 that communicates with the lower space 12.When the electric water heater is filled with water, cold water enters the inlet buffer cover 2 through the inlet 21, then flows into the lower space 12 through the outlet 22, and finally flows into the upper space 11 through the outlet guide channel 14. This slows down the water intake speed of the electric water heater, reduces the disturbance of the cold water in the lower space 12 to the hot water in the upper space 11, and allows the cold water in the lower space 12 to slowly push the hot water in the upper space 11 out of the electric water heater. However, the technical solution described in this utility model does not have an inlet structure that can be adjusted accordingly for vertical or horizontal installation. Moreover, after the cold water enters the inlet buffer cover 2 through the inlet 21, it flows into the lower space 12 through the outlet 22 and then into the upper space 11 through the outlet guide channel 14. Because the cold water flowing into the lower space 12 from the outlet 22 will disperse in different directions, it is impossible to use the stroke of the guide device to change direction and reduce the flow rate, resulting in too much disturbance to the water layer.

[0006] Finally, the Chinese utility model patent with authorization announcement number CN215109260U, entitled "Energy Recovery Device for Water Heaters," discloses a device comprising a housing and an impeller. The housing has a disc-shaped drainage cavity 1, and the housing has an inlet 2 and an outlet 3 communicating with the drainage cavity 1. The impeller is rotatably mounted in the drainage cavity. The impeller includes a turntable 4 and blades 5 circumferentially distributed on the outer circle of the turntable. The blades are mounted on the outer circle of the turntable in a manner that allows them to rotate circumferentially. When the blades rotate past the inlet as the turntable rotates, they are impacted and rotated by the water flow. When the blades rotate past the outlet as the turntable rotates, they fold and adhere to the outer circle of the turntable. A guide groove 6 is provided at the bottom of the blades. The guide groove extends from the blade head to the root, so that when the blades are folded and pass through the inlet, the water flow in the inlet flowing towards the blade head can flow into the guide groove and apply a pushing force to the bottom of the blades, causing them to unfold. The impeller drives an external motor to generate electricity, which is then used to recover energy from the water flow within the water heater's pipes. This invention utilizes water flow to rotate the impeller within the drainage chamber, causing the blades to unfold or retract. The impeller's rotation drives an external motor to generate electricity, thus achieving energy recovery. Although blade movement is involved, this design is not intended for vertical or horizontal installation of electric water heaters. Utility Model Content

[0007] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this utility model provides an inlet and outlet structure and electric water heater with a reasonable structure that facilitates water flow distribution, good water flow reversal and buffering effects, minimal disturbance to the upper water layer resulting in stable water temperature supply, low material cost, high safety factor, and strong structural adaptability, thus enabling rapid adaptation to both vertical and horizontal installation methods.

[0008] This utility model mainly relates to the following technical solutions:

[0009] A vertical and horizontal dual-purpose water heater inlet and outlet structure includes a diversion component that cooperates with an externally connected water inlet pipe. The diversion component includes a diversion box, and the diversion box includes a slow flow chamber. The cold water discharged from the water outlet of the water inlet pipe is discharged through the slow flow chamber. The diversion box further includes a flow-through chamber connected to the slow flow chamber, and an active part is provided between the flow-through chamber and the slow flow chamber. The active part acts under the action of gravity to connect or disconnect the flow-through chamber and the slow flow chamber.

[0010] Wherein, the diversion component further includes an impeller, and the impeller is located at a position corresponding to the orthographic projection of the water outlet in the slow flow chamber.

[0011] Wherein, the impeller is fixedly or rotatably arranged in the slow flow chamber.

[0012] Wherein, a drain port connected to the slow flow chamber is opened on the diversion box, and the diversion component further includes a baffle extending outward along one side of the diversion box, and the baffle is located above the drain port.

[0013] Wherein, the cross-section of the baffle is in the shape of "one", "⌒", "∩", "ㄇ", "︹" or "Ω".

[0014] Wherein, the diversion component further includes a flipping part, the flipping part is movably connected to the free end of the baffle, and the flipping part flips under the action of gravity to block or expose the direction opposite to the drain port.

[0015] Wherein, the longitudinal section of the flipping part is in the shape of L.

[0016] Wherein, buffer sheets are arranged in the slow flow chamber, and the buffer sheets are arranged at intervals layer by layer along the circumferential direction of the orthographic projection of the water outlet.

[0017] Wherein, the buffer sheets are provided with reinforcing ribs, and the cross-section of the buffer sheets is at least one of the shapes of "十", "T", "宀", "冖", "山" or "屮".

[0018] Wherein, the active part is rotatably installed in the diversion box through a pin shaft.

[0019] Wherein, the longitudinal section of the active part is in the shape of "b" or type.

[0020] Wherein, the active part is slidably and obliquely installed in the diversion box, and a slot for the active part to extend out is also opened on the diversion box.

[0021] The water inlet pipe is connected to the slow-flow cavity, and the flow cavity is also provided with an array of dispersion holes, which are located on the same side or opposite side of the side where the water inlet pipe is connected to the slow-flow cavity.

[0022] The flow guiding assembly further includes an inlet bushing, through which the inlet pipe is connected to the slow-flow cavity.

[0023] The water inlet bushing extends outward from the bottom wall of the flow guide box, and the bottom wall of the flow guide box is also provided with water inlet ribs surrounding the water inlet bushing.

[0024] It also includes a water outlet pipe, and the flow guide box is provided with a clearance notch for the water outlet pipe to pass through. The cross-section of the clearance notch is at least one of "O", "U" or "︶" shape.

[0025] The flow guiding component also includes a water outlet sleeve, which extends outward from the bottom edge of the clearance notch. The water outlet pipe passes through the water outlet sleeve, and water outlet ribs are provided around the bottom edge of the clearance notch to surround the water outlet sleeve.

[0026] The water outlet pipe is at least partially bent and extended, and the location of the water inlet of the water outlet pipe is the highest starting point of the plumb line drawn along the water outlet pipe.

[0027] The flow guide box includes a top cover and a bottom plate that interlock with each other. The top cover includes a top plate and a side wall extending downward along the edge of the top plate. The side wall has a flow diversion notch at a position corresponding to the clearance notch.

[0028] An electric water heater that uses the above-mentioned inlet and outlet water structure for both vertical and horizontal electric water heaters.

[0029] The device includes an inner liner with a through hole, and the flow guiding component is fixed in the inner liner through the through hole.

[0030] According to the technical solution described in this utility model, the following beneficial effects are achieved: The flow guide box is provided with a flow cavity connected to the slow-flow cavity. The flow cavity extends the water flow path and limits the water flow from dispersing in different directions to disturb the water layer, thereby better buffering and reducing the cold water flow velocity and consuming the kinetic energy of the cold water. A movable component that operates under gravity is provided between the flow cavity and the slow-flow cavity to connect or disconnect the two, so that the flow guide assembly can be switched to adapt to different installation methods such as vertical and horizontal installations by gravity without the need for additional manual operation. It features strong autonomy, a reasonable and simple structure; the impeller design further optimizes the buffering effect on cold water, causing the cold water to spiral and change direction according to the impeller's shape, thus absorbing the impact force of the cold water. Furthermore, the impeller design also optimizes the dispersion and guides the flow of cold water, resulting in more even distribution and reduced impact force. The baffle plate, used in conjunction with the drain outlet, acts as a pressure plate to prevent disturbance of the upper water layer when the device is horizontal, and as a barrier to prevent water from flowing too quickly towards the hot water and affecting the stability of the water temperature supply when the device is vertical. The baffle plate also features… The L-shaped tilting component, when in a horizontal position, further restricts and presses down the water flow; when in an upright position, it works with the baffle plate to further press down the water flow and prevent disturbance to the upper hot water. Moreover, the tilting component also tilts under gravity, a highly autonomous switching action requiring no additional manual operation. The placement of the dispersion holes in the flow chamber redirects the water flow, further reducing its kinetic energy and providing better buffering. The external inlet pipe, connected to the inlet bushing, effectively saves material consumption. The inlet bushing also... The design avoids welding the inlet nozzle to the inner tank, simplifying the manufacturing process. The inlet ribs enhance mechanical strength and better define the position of the sealing gasket, improving leak prevention. The outlet ribs surrounding the outlet bushing further enhance mechanical strength and better define the position of the sealing gasket. The interlocking top cover and bottom plate form a flow guide box, making it easier to clean and disassemble. The corresponding diversion notch and clearance notch further buffer the cold water flowing out from the diversion notch through the outlet pipe. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the flow guiding component of this application.

[0032] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A partial structural breakdown diagram of the central flow guide component.

[0033] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the side structure of the central flow guide assembly.

[0034] Figure 4 Top view of the exploded structure of the flow guide component.

[0035] Figure 5 A top view of the exploded structure of the flow guide component.

[0036] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of an electric water heater using the inlet and outlet water structure described in this application.

[0037] Figure 7 for Figure 6 The cross-section of an electric water heater installed in the middle bedroom position shows a schematic diagram of the inlet and outlet water structure of one embodiment.

[0038] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A cross-section of an electric water heater installed in a neutral position (AA) shows a schematic diagram of the inlet and outlet water structure of one embodiment.

[0039] Figure 9 for Figure 6 A cross-section of an electric water heater installed in the middle bedroom position shows a schematic diagram of the inlet and outlet water structure of another embodiment.

[0040] Figure 10 for Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the inlet and outlet water structure of another embodiment of an electric water heater installed in a neutral position (AA section).

[0041] 1. Flow guiding assembly, 10. Drain outlet, 11. Flow guiding box, 110. Slow flow chamber, 1100. Flow passage chamber, 111. Buffer plate, X. Moving part, 12. Impeller, 13. Baffle plate, 14. Flipping part, m. Mounting base, n. Holes, F. Dispersion hole, 2. Inlet bushing, 21. Inlet rib, T. Outlet pipe, O. Relief notch, 3. Outlet bushing, 31. Outlet rib, 51. Top cover, 52. Bottom plate, 511. Top plate, 512. Side wall, Q. Diversion notch. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The technical solution of this utility model will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0043] See Figure 2 , 4As shown in Figures 7-10, a water inlet and outlet structure for a dual-purpose (vertical and horizontal) electric water heater includes a flow guiding component 1 that cooperates with an external water inlet pipe. The flow guiding component 1 includes a flow guiding box 11, which includes a slow-flow chamber 110. Cold water discharged from the outlet of the water inlet pipe is discharged through the slow-flow chamber 110. The flow guiding box 11 also includes a flow passage chamber 1100 that communicates with the slow-flow chamber 110. A movable component X is provided between the flow passage chamber 1100 and the slow-flow chamber 110. The movable component X moves under the action of gravity to connect or disconnect the flow passage chamber 1100 and the slow-flow chamber 110. In this application, the outlet of the external water inlet pipe can be directly connected to the slow-flow cavity 110 or not directly connected to the slow-flow cavity 110. In the former case, the water inlet pipe can be connected to the slow-flow cavity 110 along the axial direction of the slow-flow cavity 110 (therefore, when the water inlet pipe is a round pipe, the orthographic projection of the outlet of the water inlet pipe can be circular), or the water inlet pipe can be connected to the slow-flow cavity 110 at an angle, deviating from the axial direction of the slow-flow cavity 110 (therefore, when the water inlet pipe is a round pipe, the orthographic projection of the outlet of the water inlet pipe can be elliptical). In the latter case, the material for extending the water inlet pipe into the slow-flow cavity 110 can be eliminated, thereby reducing material costs and providing conditions to avoid separately welding the water inlet nozzle to the inner liner. In this application, the flow guide box is provided with a flow passage cavity connected to the slow flow cavity. The flow passage cavity extends the water flow path and limits the water flow from dispersing and rushing in different directions to disturb the water layer, thereby better buffering and reducing the cold water flow velocity and consuming the cold water kinetic energy. A movable component that operates under gravity is provided between the flow passage cavity and the slow flow cavity to connect or disconnect the two, so that the flow guide component can be switched to adapt to different installation methods such as vertical and horizontal installations by gravity without the need for additional manual operation. It has strong autonomy and a reasonable and simple structure.

[0044] See Figure 2 , 4 As shown in Figure 5, the flow guiding component 1 also includes an impeller 12, which is located in the slow flow chamber 110 at a position corresponding to the orthographic projection of the water outlet. In this application, the impeller configuration makes the cold water outlet surface more uniform and wider, further optimizing the buffering effect on the cold water, thereby more evenly distributing the flow and reducing the impact force of the water flow, resulting in a more uniform and gentle water flow.

[0045] See Figure 2 , 4As shown in Figure 5, the impeller 12 is fixedly or rotatably disposed in the slow-flow chamber 110. In this application, the cold water undergoes a spiral directional change with the blades, which consumes the impact force of the cold water. Moreover, whether the impeller is fixed or rotating, it can optimize and disperse the cold water to varying degrees and guide the flow distribution, thereby significantly improving the buffering effect. In this application, the impeller 12 can be integrally formed with the flow guide box 11, or the impeller 12 can be fixed by limiting mechanisms respectively provided on the flow guide box 11 and the impeller 12, such as limiting blocks, limiting grooves (or setting position interchange). In a more optimized embodiment, the movement of the limiting mechanism can realize the switching between the fixed and rotatable states of the impeller 12 relative to the flow slowing cavity 110. In the most optimized embodiment, a limiting block strip provided on the flow guide box 11 and swinging under the influence of gravity can be used to cooperate with the limiting groove provided on the impeller 12. When the limiting block strip falls into the limiting groove under the action of gravity, the impeller 12 is fixed relative to the flow slowing cavity 110; when the limiting block strip leaves the limiting groove under the action of gravity, the impeller 12 is rotatable relative to the flow slowing cavity 110.

[0046] See Figure 3 , 7 As shown in Figure -10, the flow guide box 11 has a drain outlet 10 connected to the slow-flow chamber 110. The flow guide assembly 1 also includes a baffle plate 13 extending outward along one side of the flow guide box 11, with the baffle plate 13 located above the drain outlet 10. In this application, the baffle plate is used in conjunction with the drain outlet. When the user is lying down, it acts to press down the water flow to prevent disturbance of the upper hot water. When the user is standing, it acts as a barrier to prevent the water from flowing too quickly to the hot water and affecting the stability of the water temperature supply. In this application, cold water discharged from the outlet of the inlet pipe passes through the slow-flow chamber and is at least partially discharged through the drain outlet. Preferably, the baffle plate 13 is located on the side of the flow guide box 11 opposite to the flow chamber 1100.

[0047] See Figures 1-5 As shown, the cross-section of the baffle 13 is in the shape of "I", "⌒", "∩", "ㄇ", "︹" or "Ω". This structural design restricts the flow direction of cold water to a certain extent, presses down or blocks the cold water, thereby preventing it from disturbing the hot water too quickly.

[0048] See Figures 1-5 As shown in Figures 7-10, the flow guiding assembly 1 further includes a flipping member 14, which is movably connected to the free end of the baffle plate 13. The flipping member 14 flips under gravity to either block or expose the direction directly opposite the drain outlet 10. Preferably, the flipping member 14 is movably connected to the free end of the baffle plate 13 via a pin. In this application, by providing the flipping member, the direction of cold water can be further restricted, thereby further reducing the velocity of disturbance to the hot water layer.

[0049] See Figures 1-3, as shown in FIGS. 7 - 10, the longitudinal section of the flipping member 14 is L - shaped. Preferably, the flipping member 14 in this application is a bent plate. One side wall of the plate at one end of the bent plate is used to block or expose the direction opposite to the drain outlet 10, and the other side wall of the plate at the other end of the bent plate is used to press down the cold water discharged from the drain outlet 10. Therefore, the flipping member 14 further restricts and presses down the water flow when the electric water heater is in the lying position, and when the electric water heater is in the standing position, it cooperates with the blocking effect of the flow - blocking plate 13 to further block and press down the water flow to prevent disturbing the upper - layer hot water. Moreover, the flipping member 14 also flips under the action of gravity, which is also a switching action with strong autonomy and does not require additional manual operation.

[0050] See Figure 2 , 4 , as shown in FIGS. 7 - 10, buffer sheets 111 are provided in the slow - flow cavity 110, and the buffer sheets 111 are arranged at intervals layer by layer along the circumferential direction of the orthographic projection of the water outlet. Preferably, adjacent two layers of buffer sheets 111 are arranged in a staggered manner. Thus, when the cold water flows radially outward along the slow - flow cavity 110, it can better play the roles of shunting, blocking, and guiding, and the effect of buffering the water flow is more significant. This structural design is beneficial to forming a turbulent - flow water outlet in the slow - flow cavity, can more quickly consume the kinetic energy of the water flow, thereby playing a better buffering role and尽可能地 reducing the disturbance to the hot - water layer.

[0051] See Figure 2 , 4 As shown in FIGS., the buffer sheet 111 is provided with reinforcing ribs, and the cross - section of the buffer sheet 111 is at least one of the shapes of "十", "T", "宀", "冖", "山", or "屮". In this application, setting reinforcing ribs on the buffer sheet can, on the one hand, improve the mechanical strength, and on the other hand, can cut the water flow, playing a better role in dispersing, guiding, and reducing the impact force of the water flow.

[0052] See Figure 2 , 4 , as shown in FIGS. 7, 8, the movable member X is rotatably installed in the diversion box 11 through a pin shaft. Preferably, the movable member X is rotatably installed in the diversion box 11 through a pin shaft passing through the mounting seat m, and the mounting seat m can be integrally formed with the diversion box 11.

[0053] See Figure 2 , 4 , as shown in FIGS. 7, 8, the longitudinal section of the movable member X is in the shape of "b" or shape. This structural design increases the volume and weight of one end of the movable member, and the movable member is more likely to flip under the action of gravity.

[0054] See Figure 9 , 10As shown, in another embodiment, the movable component X is slidably and tiltably installed inside the flow guide box 11, and the flow guide box 11 is also provided with a slot n for the movable component X to extend out. In another embodiment of this application, the movable component X can also be tilted so that it slides under the action of gravity. Preferably, the longitudinal cross-section of the movable component X is " / " shaped or "'" shaped. More preferably, in this embodiment, the movable component X slides through a slide rail provided on the flow guide box 11. Even more preferably, to make the effect of gravity more obvious, a counterweight can be added, for example, by increasing the weight or volume of one side of the movable component X. Increasing the volume or weight of one end of the movable component X makes it easier for gravity to take effect, and can also be used to limit the movement of the increased volume to prevent it from sliding out of the slot n.

[0055] See Figures 2-5 As shown, the inlet pipe is connected to the slow-flow chamber 110, and the flow chamber 1100 is further provided with an array of dispersion holes F. The dispersion holes F are located on the same side or opposite side of the side where the inlet pipe is connected to the slow-flow chamber 110. Preferably, the dispersion holes F are located on the same side of the side where the inlet pipe is connected to the slow-flow chamber 110. In this application, the position of the dispersion holes can redirect the water flow in the flow chamber again, further dissipating the kinetic energy of the water flow and playing a further buffering role. Moreover, the array distribution of the dispersion holes can also ensure uniform water discharge. Preferably, the orientation of the dispersion holes F is parallel to the axial direction of the inlet pipe.

[0056] See Figures 1-10 As shown, the flow guiding assembly 1 also includes an inlet sleeve 2, through which the inlet pipe connects to the flow-retardant chamber 110. This structural design allows the inlet sleeve to extend out of the inner liner, thus avoiding the need to weld the inlet nozzle onto the inner liner and simplifying the manufacturing process. Preferably, the outer peripheral wall of the inlet sleeve 2 is provided with external threads, so that after the sealing gasket is fitted tightly against the inner and outer walls of the inner liner, it is then engaged with a locking nut with internal threads. The fitting of the sealing gasket can prevent damage to the enamel of the inner liner.

[0057] See Figure 3 , 5 As shown in Figures 7-10, the water inlet bushing 2 extends outward from the bottom wall of the flow guide box 11, and the bottom wall of the flow guide box 11 is also provided with water inlet ribs 21 surrounding the water inlet bushing 2. Preferably, the water inlet ribs 21 are arranged in a ring shape, which not only limits the sealing gasket, but also improves the mechanical strength of the structure.

[0058] See Figure 1 , 2 As shown in Figures 4, 5, and 7-10, the system also includes a water outlet pipe T. The flow guide box 11 is also provided with a clearance notch O for the water outlet pipe T to pass through. The cross-section of the clearance notch O is at least one of the following: “O” shape, “U” shape, or “︶” shape.

[0059] See Figures 1-10 As shown, the flow guiding assembly 1 also includes a water outlet sleeve 3, which extends outward from the bottom edge of the clearance notch O. A water outlet pipe T passes through the water outlet sleeve 3, and water outlet ribs 31 surround the bottom edge of the clearance notch O. This structural design provides a condition for the water outlet sleeve to extend out of the inner liner, thus avoiding the need to weld the water outlet nozzle onto the inner liner and simplifying the manufacturing process. Preferably, the outer peripheral wall of the water outlet sleeve 3 has external threads, so that after the sealing gasket is fitted tightly against the inner and outer walls of the inner liner, it can be engaged with a locking nut with internal threads. The fitting of the sealing gasket can prevent damage to the enamel of the inner liner. Preferably, the water outlet pipe T has an outward flange to be clamped onto the free end of the water outlet sleeve 3. Preferably, the water outlet ribs 31 are arranged in a ring shape, which not only limits the sealing gasket but also improves the mechanical strength of the structure.

[0060] See Figures 7-10 As shown, the outlet pipe T is at least partially bent and extended, and the inlet of the outlet pipe T is located at the highest starting point of the plumb line drawn along the outlet pipe T. This structural design ensures that regardless of whether the electric water heater is positioned upright or horizontally, the inlet of the outlet pipe is located at the upper end of the inner tank cavity, thereby continuously supplying hot water from the upper layer to the outside.

[0061] See Figure 2 , 4 As shown in Figure 5, the flow guide box 11 includes a top cover 51 and a bottom plate 52 that interlock. The top cover 51 includes a top plate 511 and a side wall 512 extending downward along the edge of the top plate 511. The side wall 512 has a diversion notch Q at a position corresponding to the clearance notch O. Preferably, the top cover 51 and the bottom plate 52 are interlocked by a snap fastener. In this application, the water flow discharged from the diversion notch impacts the outlet pipe, further playing a role in buffering and decelerating. Preferably, the cross-section of the clearance notch O on the bottom plate 52 is "O" shaped, and the cross-section of the clearance notch O on the top cover 51 is "U" shaped or "︶" shaped, forming a steep step-like structure between the bottom plate 52 and the top cover 51 (instead of using an inclined slope between the bottom plate 52 and the top cover 51, i.e., the side wall of the top cover 51 is not inclined), so that the cold water flowing out of the diversion notch Q can directly rush towards the outlet pipe T, thus strengthening the buffering effect on the water flow.

[0062] See Figure 6 As shown, an electric water heater uses the above-mentioned inlet and outlet water structure of a vertical and horizontal dual-purpose electric water heater.

[0063] See Figures 6-10As shown, the device includes an inner liner with a through hole, through which the flow guide assembly 1 is fixed. In this application, a sealing gasket is located at the through hole and fits tightly against the inner and outer walls of the inner liner, respectively. The inlet sleeve 2 and outlet sleeve 3 extend from the through hole, which not only avoids welding the inlet and outlet nozzles but also allows for engagement with the locking nut to fix the flow guide assembly 1. Preferably, in this application, the through hole is designed as a countersunk hole to conceal part of the structure of the sealing gasket and / or locking nut.

[0064] Although the specific embodiments of this utility model have been described above, those skilled in the art can make changes to it without departing from the spirit and principle of this utility model. The scope of protection of this utility model is defined by its claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A water inlet and outlet structure for a dual-purpose (vertical and horizontal) electric water heater, comprising a flow guiding assembly that cooperates with an external water inlet pipe, the flow guiding assembly comprising a flow guiding box, the flow guiding box comprising a flow-slowing chamber, wherein cold water entering from the outlet of the water inlet pipe is discharged through the flow-slowing chamber, characterized in that: The flow guide box further includes a flow-through cavity communicating with the flow buffer cavity, and an active member is provided between the flow-through cavity and the flow buffer cavity. The active member acts under the action of gravity to connect or disconnect the flow-through cavity and the flow buffer cavity.

2. The inlet and outlet water structure of the dual-purpose (vertical and horizontal) electric water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: The flow guide assembly further includes an impeller, and the impeller is located at a position corresponding to the orthographic projection of the water outlet in the flow buffer cavity.

3. The inlet and outlet water structure of the dual-purpose electric water heater according to claim 2, characterized in that: The impeller is fixedly or rotatably arranged in the flow buffer cavity.

4. The inlet and outlet water structure of the dual-purpose electric water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: A drain port communicating with the flow buffer cavity is formed on the flow guide box, and the flow guide assembly further includes a baffle extending outward along one side of the flow guide box, and the baffle is located above the drain port.

5. The inlet and outlet water structure of the dual-purpose (vertical and horizontal) electric water heater according to claim 4, characterized in that: The cross section of the baffle is in the shape of "一", "⌒", "∩", "ㄇ", "︹" or "Ω".

6. The water inlet and outlet structure of the dual-purpose electric water heater according to claim 4, characterized in that: The flow guide assembly further includes a flipping member, and the flipping member is movably connected to the free end of the baffle. The flipping member flips under the action of gravity to block or expose the direction facing the drain port.

7. The inlet and outlet water structure of the dual-purpose electric water heater according to claim 6, characterized in that: The longitudinal section of the flipping member is in the shape of L.

8. The inlet and outlet water structure of the dual-purpose electric water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and 5 to 7, characterized in that: Buffer sheets are arranged in the flow buffer cavity at intervals layer by layer along the circumferential direction of the orthographic projection of the water outlet.

9. The inlet and outlet water structure of the dual-purpose electric water heater according to claim 8, characterized in that: Reinforcing ribs are provided on the buffer sheets, and the cross section of the buffer sheets is at least one of the shapes of "十", "T", "宀", "冖", "山" or "屮".

10. The inlet and outlet water structure of the dual-purpose (vertical and horizontal) electric water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 5 to 7, and 9, characterized in that: The active member is rotatably installed in the flow guide box through a pin shaft.

11. The water inlet and outlet structure of the dual-purpose electric water heater according to claim 10, characterized in that: The longitudinal cross-section of the movable component is "b" shaped or " "type.

12. The inlet and outlet water structure of the dual-purpose (vertical and horizontal) electric water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 5 to 7, and 9, characterized in that: The active member is slidably and obliquely installed in the flow guide box, and a slot for the active member to extend out is further formed on the flow guide box.

13. The inlet and outlet water structure of the dual-purpose (vertical and horizontal) electric water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 5 to 7, 9, and 11, characterized in that: The water inlet pipe is joined to the flow buffer cavity, and the flow-through cavity is further provided with dispersion holes distributed in an array, and the dispersion holes are arranged on the same side or the opposite side of the side where the water inlet pipe is joined to the flow buffer cavity.

14. The inlet and outlet water structure of the dual-purpose electric water heater according to claim 13, characterized in that: The flow guide assembly further includes a water inlet bush, and the water inlet pipe is joined to the flow buffer cavity through the water inlet bush.

15. The water inlet and outlet structure of the dual-purpose electric water heater according to claim 14, characterized in that: The water inlet bush extends outward from the bottom wall of the flow guide box, and the bottom wall of the flow guide box is further provided with water inlet ribbed bars surrounding the water inlet bush.

16. The inlet and outlet water structure of the dual-purpose (vertical and horizontal) electric water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 5 to 7, 9, 11, 14, and 15, characterized in that: An outlet pipe is further included, and the flow guide box is further provided with a relief notch for the outlet pipe to pass through, and the cross section of the relief notch is at least one of the shapes of "O", "U" or "︶".

17. The inlet and outlet water structure of the dual-purpose electric water heater according to claim 16, characterized in that: [[ID= 18. The water inlet and outlet structure of the dual-purpose electric water heater according to claim 16, characterized in that: ​ 19. The water inlet and outlet structure of the dual-purpose electric water heater according to claim 16, characterized in that: ​ 20. An electric water heater, characterized in that: ​ 21. The electric water heater according to claim 20, characterized in that: ​

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