Water dispenser

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of water dispensers, in particular to a water dispenser which comprises a tank body and a waterway board assembly, and the tank body is provided with a medium containing cavity; the water path plate assembly is connected to the tank body and blocks the opening of the medium containing cavity, a first water inlet path and a first water outlet path are arranged in the water path plate assembly, one end of the first water inlet path is communicated with a water inlet pipeline, and the other end of the first water inlet path is communicated with the medium containing cavity; one end of the first water outlet path communicates with the medium containing cavity, and the other end of the first water outlet path communicates with a hot water output pipeline. The waterway plate assembly is directly in butt joint with the tank body and can block the medium containing cavity, the structure of the water dispenser can be simplified, the weight of the water dispenser is reduced, and the heat preservation performance of the water dispenser is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of water dispenser technology, specifically to a water dispenser. Background Technology

[0002] With the advancement of technology, people have developed diverse needs for domestic water. Water dispensers can treat the input water, such as adjusting its temperature and quality to meet user requirements, before dispensing the treated water, greatly facilitating people's lives. To provide hot water or store heat, most modern water dispensers are equipped with a tank for storing hot water. Metal frames are often used to secure the tank due to their mature stamping and welding processes and low production costs.

[0003] However, due to the good thermal conductivity of the metal frame, the heat from the hot water in the tank can easily be lost through the metal base, significantly affecting the tank's ability to store hot water and / or heat. Furthermore, the metal frame itself is quite heavy, which can make the overall weight of the water dispenser too high, making transportation inconvenient. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of this, this application provides a water dispenser that can reduce the weight of the water dispenser and improve its heat preservation performance.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, one technical solution adopted in this application is: providing a water dispenser, including a tank and a water circuit board assembly, wherein the tank is provided with a medium cavity; the water circuit board assembly is connected to the tank and seals the opening of the medium cavity, the water circuit board assembly is provided with a first water inlet and a first water outlet, one end of the first water inlet is connected to a water inlet pipe and the other end is connected to the medium cavity, one end of the first water outlet is connected to the medium cavity and the other end is connected to a hot water output pipe; wherein, the water circuit board assembly includes an elastic sealing gasket and a water circuit board body, the water circuit board body is disposed at the opening of the medium cavity and fixedly connected to the tank, the elastic sealing gasket seals the opening of the medium cavity and is disposed between the water circuit board body and the opening of the medium cavity; the elastic sealing gasket is provided with a water inlet hole and a water outlet hole, the first water inlet and the first water outlet are disposed on the water circuit board body, the water inlet hole is connected to the first water inlet, and the water outlet hole is connected to the first water outlet.

[0006] In one specific embodiment, the water circuit board assembly includes an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe. One end of the inlet pipe is connected to the main body of the water circuit board. At least a first water inlet path is formed inside the inlet pipe. The end of the inlet pipe away from the main body of the water circuit board is provided with a first water inlet that communicates with the first water inlet path. The first water inlet is connected to the water inlet hole. At least a first water outlet path is formed inside the outlet pipe. One end of the outlet pipe is connected to the main body of the water circuit board, and the other end is provided with a first water outlet that communicates with the first water outlet path. The first water outlet is connected to the water outlet hole.

[0007] In one specific embodiment, the water circuit board assembly further includes an insulating foam cover, which is stacked on the upper side of the elastic sealing gasket. The insulating foam cover has a water inlet hole and a water outlet hole. The water inlet pipe passes through the water inlet hole, and the water outlet pipe passes through the water outlet hole. The insulating foam cover abuts against the water circuit board body and the tank.

[0008] In one specific embodiment, the water circuit board assembly further includes a plastic cap, and the elastic sealing gasket includes a sealing flange and a gasket surface. The plastic cap at least covers part of the opening of the medium cavity. The sealing flange abuts against the periphery of the plastic cap and the inner wall of the tank body. The gasket surface abuts against one side surface of the plastic cap, and the other side surface of the plastic cap faces the heat-insulating foam cover. The plastic cap includes a first docking sleeve and a second docking sleeve. The water inlet hole, the first docking sleeve, and the water inlet pipe are sleeved and fixed together. The water outlet hole, the second docking sleeve, and the water outlet pipe are sleeved and fixed together.

[0009] In one specific embodiment, the water dispenser further includes a heating rod and a circuit board. The heating rod is electrically connected to the circuit board. The elastic sealing gasket is provided with a mounting sleeve. The heating rod is inserted and fixed to the mounting sleeve. The heating part of the heating rod is located in the medium cavity.

[0010] In one specific embodiment, the water dispenser further includes a heat exchanger assembly, which has a heat exchange medium flow channel and a water flow channel that are isolated from each other and thermally connected. The water circuit board assembly also has a second water inlet. One end of the heat exchange medium flow channel is connected to the first water outlet and the other end is connected to the second water inlet. The end of the second water inlet that is away from the heat exchange medium flow channel is connected to the medium cavity.

[0011] In one specific embodiment, the water circuit board assembly further includes a return water pipe, at least a portion of the second water inlet is formed in the return water pipe, one end of the return water pipe is connected to the water circuit board body, and the other end is provided with a second water inlet communicating with the second water inlet, the second water inlet being located at the bottom of the medium cavity.

[0012] In one specific embodiment, the return water pipe is made of a material with low thermal conductivity.

[0013] The beneficial effects of this application include: using a water circuit board assembly to directly connect to and seal the medium cavity of the tank. Since the water circuit board assembly is usually made of plastic with thermal conductivity and specific gravity much lower than metal, it not only simplifies the structure of the water dispenser and reduces its overall weight, which is beneficial for transportation and installation, but also prevents heat loss from the medium cavity through the opening to a certain extent. Water enters and exits through the inlet and outlet holes on the elastic sealing gasket at the top of the medium cavity. The elastic sealing gasket enhances the sealing effect between the tank and the water circuit board assembly, greatly reducing heat loss inside the tank and improving the heat preservation effect of the tank, thereby improving the energy utilization rate of the water dispenser. At the same time, it allows the heat exchange medium to enter and exit from the top of the medium cavity. Since the heat exchange medium with higher temperature has a lower density, outputting the heat exchange medium from the top of the medium cavity can ensure that the heat exchange medium used has a higher temperature, which meets the requirements for the use of high-temperature heat exchange medium. Attached Figure Description

[0014] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the implementation will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some implementations of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of an embodiment of the water dispenser of this application. Figure 1 ;

[0016] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of an embodiment of the water dispenser of this application. Figure 2 ;

[0017] Figure 3 This is a first exploded structural diagram of an embodiment of the water dispenser of this application;

[0018] Figure 4 This is a second exploded view of the water dispenser embodiment of this application;

[0019] Figure 5 This is a third exploded view of the water dispenser embodiment of this application;

[0020] Figure 6 This is a schematic block diagram of the water circuit structure of an embodiment of the water dispenser of this application.

[0021] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0022] 1. Water dispenser; 2. Tank; 21. Medium cavity; 3. Water circuit board assembly; 31. Elastic sealing gasket; 311. Water inlet; 312. Water outlet; 313. Sealing flange; 314. Gasket surface; 315. Mounting sleeve; 4. Insulating foam cover; 41. Water inlet hole; 42. Water outlet hole; 43. Plastic pressure cap; 431. First mating sleeve; 432. Second mating sleeve; 433. Negative pressure sealing structure; 434. Exhaust sealing structure; 5. Water circuit board body; 51. First water inlet... 52. First water outlet; 53. Water inlet pipe; 54. First water inlet; 55. Water outlet pipe; 56. First water outlet; 71. Second water inlet; 72. Second water inlet; 73. Return water pipe; 74. Drain pipe; 81. Heating rod; 82. Circuit board; 83. Heat exchanger assembly; 831. Heat exchange medium flow channel; 832. Water flow channel; 84. Thick film heater; 85. Water outlet; 86. Wastewater discharge channel; 87. Exhaust passage; 91. Water inlet pipe; 92. Hot water output pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0023] In this application, the terms "set up," "equipped with," and "connected" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0024] The terms “center,” “longitudinal,” “lateral,” “length,” “width,” “thickness,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “top,” “bottom,” “inner,” and “outer,” etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0025] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0026] Furthermore, in addition to indicating location or positional relationship, some of the aforementioned terms may also have other meanings. For example, the term "above" may also be used in some cases to indicate a certain dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0027] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0028] With the advancement of technology, people have developed diverse needs for domestic water. Water dispensers can treat the input water, such as adjusting its temperature and quality to meet user requirements, before dispensing the treated water, greatly facilitating people's lives. To provide hot water or store heat, most modern water dispensers are equipped with a tank for storing hot water. Metal frames are often used to secure the tank due to their mature stamping and welding processes and low production costs.

[0029] However, due to the good thermal conductivity of the metal frame, the heat from the hot water in the tank can easily be lost through the metal base, significantly affecting the tank's ability to store hot water and / or heat. Furthermore, the metal frame itself is quite heavy, which can make the overall weight of the water dispenser too high, making transportation inconvenient.

[0030] In order to improve or solve the above technical problems, the inventors of this application, after long-term research, have proposed at least the following embodiments.

[0031] See Figures 1-6 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of an embodiment of the water dispenser of this application. Figure 1 . Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of an embodiment of the water dispenser of this application. Figure 2 . Figure 3 This is a first exploded structural diagram of an embodiment of the water dispenser of this application. Figure 4 This is a second exploded structural diagram of an embodiment of the water dispenser of this application. Figure 5 This is a third exploded view of the water dispenser embodiment of this application. Figure 6 This is a schematic block diagram of the water circuit structure of an embodiment of the water dispenser of this application. A specific embodiment of this application provides a water dispenser 1, including a tank 2 and a water circuit board assembly 3.

[0032] See Figure 4 and Figure 6The tank body 2 is provided with a medium cavity 21. The water circuit board assembly 3 is connected to the tank body 2 and seals the opening of the medium cavity 21. The water circuit board assembly 3 is provided with a first water inlet 51 and a first water outlet 52. One end of the first water inlet 51 is connected to the water inlet pipe 91, and the other end of the first water inlet 51 is connected to the medium cavity 21. One end of the first water outlet 52 is connected to the medium cavity 21, and the other end of the first water outlet 52 is connected to the hot water output pipe 92.

[0033] In this context, a water dispenser 1 refers to a device that treats input water to meet user needs, typically used in home, commercial, or industrial settings. The water treatment methods can include at least one of filtration, heating, cooling, or softening. Specifically, a water dispenser 1 can be a water purifier, water heater, water softener, or water chiller.

[0034] See Figure 3 The tank 2 is a container in the water dispenser 1 used to store heat exchange media such as water and oil. The tank 2 can be a hollow shell with an open end. For example, the tank 2 can refer to the hot water storage tank inside an instant water dispenser, or the inner tank in an electric water heater used to contain hot water. The medium cavity 21 is the space inside the tank 2 used to store heat exchange media such as water and oil.

[0035] See Figure 4 and Figure 6 The water circuit board assembly 3 is a plate-shaped or block-shaped component integrating various water circuit elements, with complex water flow channels formed internally through injection molding or processing. The water circuit board assembly 3 can be made of engineering plastics such as POM (polyoxymethylene). Valves, pump bodies, connectors, and other structures can be directly installed on the water circuit board assembly 3. The first water inlet 51 and the first water outlet 52 are two pipes integrated inside the water circuit board assembly 3. The first water inlet 51 is used to introduce externally input heat exchange medium into the tank 2. One end of the first water inlet 51 is connected to the inlet pipe 91, such as a tap water pipe or the outlet pipe of a water purifier, and the other end is connected to the medium cavity 21 inside the tank 2. The first water outlet 52 is used to transport the treated heat exchange medium out of the tank 2. One end of the first water outlet 52 is connected to the medium cavity 21 inside the tank 2, and the other end is connected to the hot water output pipe 92 in structures such as faucets, shower heads, water outlet components, and heat exchanger assembly 83.

[0036] See Figure 6 The inlet pipe 91 refers to the pipe that supplies the heat exchange medium to the tank 2. Specifically, the inlet pipe 91 can be a tap water pipe, the outlet pipe of a water purifier, etc. The hot water outlet pipe 92 refers to the pipe that leads the heat exchange medium out of the tank 2 for various purposes. The hot water outlet pipe 92 can be installed within structures such as faucets, shower heads, water outlet components, and heat exchanger assemblies 83.

[0037] In the structure provided in this specific embodiment, the common metal bracket is abandoned, and the water circuit board assembly 3 is used to directly connect to and seal the medium cavity 21 of the tank 2. Since the water circuit board assembly 3 is usually made of plastic with thermal conductivity and specific gravity much lower than metal, it can not only simplify the structure of the water dispenser 1 and reduce the overall weight of the water dispenser 1, which is beneficial to the transportation and installation of the water dispenser 1, but also prevent the heat in the medium cavity 21 from being lost through the opening to a certain extent, thereby greatly reducing the heat loss in the tank 2, improving the heat preservation effect of the tank 2, and thus improving the energy utilization rate of the water dispenser 1.

[0038] like Figures 2-6 As shown in a specific embodiment of this application, the water channel plate assembly 3 includes an elastic sealing gasket 31 and a water channel plate body 5. The water channel plate body 5 is disposed at the opening of the medium cavity 21 and is fixedly connected to the tank body 2. The elastic sealing gasket 31 seals the opening of the medium cavity 21 and is disposed between the water channel plate body 5 and the opening of the medium cavity 21. The elastic sealing gasket 31 is provided with a water inlet hole 311 and a water outlet hole 312. The first water inlet passage 51 and the first water outlet passage 52 are disposed on the water channel plate body 5. The water inlet hole 311 is connected to the first water inlet passage 51, and the water outlet hole 312 is connected to the first water outlet passage 52.

[0039] The water channel plate body 5 is the rigid skeleton part of the water channel plate assembly 3. The water channel plate body 5 can be manufactured from engineering plastics through injection molding, with the first water inlet channel 51, the first water outlet channel 52, and other water flow channels directly formed internally. The water channel plate body 5 can be fixed to the tank body 2 using structures such as screw posts. The elastic sealing gasket 31 can be a thin sheet or washer made of elastic material with specific perforations. The core function of the elastic sealing gasket 31 is to seal the gap between the water channel plate body 5 and the open tank body 2 by deforming under pressure.

[0040] See Figure 3 The inlet hole 311 and the outlet hole 312 are two holes specially drilled in the elastic sealing gasket 31. Their positions are strictly aligned with the ports of the first water inlet 51 and the first water outlet 52 on the water circuit board body 5. As precise docking channels, the inlet hole 311 and the outlet hole 312 ensure that the first water inlet 51 and the first water outlet 52 in the water circuit board body 5 can accurately communicate with the medium cavity 21 in the tank 2, forming a smooth and leak-free complete water flow path.

[0041] In the structure provided in this specific embodiment, the water channel plate body 5 serves as a rigid structural component that provides strength, is fixed to the tank body 2, and integrates the flow channel. It cooperates with the elastic sealing gasket 31, which serves as a flexible sealing component. By compressing the elastic sealing gasket 31 between the water channel plate body 5 and the opening of the medium cavity 21, the elastic deformation of the elastic sealing gasket 31 material forms an interference fit, thereby sealing the gap between the water channel plate body 5 and the tank body 2 at the opening, forming a soft and reliable sealing barrier, which can ensure the sealing and heat preservation performance of the medium cavity 21.

[0042] In addition, see Figure 3 The elastic sealing gasket 31 can absorb and compensate for dimensional errors and deformations in the tank body 2 and the water circuit board body 5 at the open end, reducing the precision requirements for parts processing, thereby lowering production costs and scrap rates, and also facilitating the assembly of the water dispenser 1. The elastic sealing gasket 31 can also act as a buffer layer during the operation of the water dispenser 1, effectively reducing collisions and vibration transmission between the water circuit board body 5 and the tank body 2, thereby reducing the operating noise of the water dispenser 1 and improving the long-term reliability of the connection between the water circuit board body 5 and the tank body 2.

[0043] Optionally, the connection between the water channel plate body 5 and the tank body 2 can be by insertion or by cover. The elastic sealing gasket 31 can be a gasket type or a sealing ring type.

[0044] See Figures 2-5 In one specific embodiment of this application, the water circuit board assembly 3 includes an inlet pipe 53 and an outlet pipe 55. One end of the inlet pipe 53 is connected to the water circuit board body 5. A first water inlet path 51 is at least partially formed within the inlet pipe 53. The end of the inlet pipe 53 away from the water circuit board body 5 is provided with a first water inlet 54 communicating with the first water inlet path 51. The first water inlet 54 is connected to the water inlet hole 311. A first water outlet path 52 is at least partially formed within the outlet pipe 55. One end of the outlet pipe 55 is connected to the water circuit board body 5. The other end of the outlet pipe 55 is provided with a first water outlet 56 communicating with the first water outlet path 52. The first water outlet 56 is connected to the water outlet hole 312.

[0045] The inlet pipe 53 and outlet pipe 55 are two independent, solid pipes that serve as the physical carriers and extensions of the first inlet channel 51 and the first outlet channel 52. One end of the inlet pipe 53 and the outlet pipe 55 are connected to the main body 5 of the water circuit board, and the other end is connected to the inlet hole 311 and the outlet hole 312 on the elastic sealing gasket 31, thereby connecting to the medium cavity 21 inside the tank 2. The first inlet 54 and the first outlet 56 refer to the openings at the ends of the inlet pipe 53 and the outlet pipe 55 that are away from the main body 5 of the water circuit board.

[0046] See Figure 5The first inlet 54 and the first outlet 56 are the ports through which the heat exchange medium enters or leaves, and are directly responsible for docking with the inlet hole 311 and outlet hole 312 on the elastic sealing gasket 31. Docking refers to the precise alignment and fluid communication between the ports. For example, in this specific embodiment, the first inlet 54 is aligned and in close contact with the inlet hole 311 on the elastic sealing gasket 31, thereby ensuring that the heat exchange medium in the inlet pipe 53 can pass through the elastic sealing gasket 31 without leakage and enter the medium cavity 21.

[0047] In the structure provided in this specific embodiment, the first inlet 54 of the inlet pipe 53 and the first outlet 56 of the outlet pipe 55 are connected to the inlet hole 311 and outlet hole 312 on the elastic sealing gasket 31. Water enters and exits through the inlet hole 311 and outlet hole 312 on the elastic sealing gasket 31 located at the top of the medium cavity 21, realizing the entry and exit of the heat exchange medium from the top of the medium cavity 21. Since the heat exchange medium with higher temperature has lower density, outputting the heat exchange medium from the top of the medium cavity 21 can ensure that the heat exchange medium used has a higher temperature, thus meeting the requirements for using high-temperature heat exchange medium.

[0048] like Figures 2-5 As shown in a specific embodiment of this application, the water circuit board assembly 3 further includes a thermal insulation foam cover 4, which is stacked on top of the elastic sealing gasket 31. The thermal insulation foam cover 4 has a water inlet hole 41 and a water outlet hole 42. The water inlet pipe 53 passes through the water inlet hole 41, and the water outlet pipe 55 passes through the water outlet hole 42. The thermal insulation foam cover 4 abuts against the water circuit board body 5 and the tank 2, thereby ensuring that the thermal insulation foam cover 4 is difficult to loosen, allowing the thermal insulation foam cover 4 to tightly wrap the water inlet pipe 53 and the water outlet pipe 55, achieving the best heat insulation and fixing effect.

[0049] Among them, see Figure 3 and Figure 4 The insulating foam cover 4 can be a cover-shaped or block-shaped heat insulation component made of closed-cell or open-cell foam material with specific pore positions. While providing heat insulation for the medium cavity 21, the insulating foam cover 4 also provides structural support for the water circuit board body 5. The water inlet hole 41 and water outlet hole 42 are two specially drilled holes on the insulating foam cover 4, their positions strictly aligned with the water inlet hole 311, water outlet hole 312, and the positions of the water inlet pipe 53 and water outlet pipe 55 on the elastic sealing gasket 31. The water inlet hole 41 and water outlet hole 42 allow the water inlet pipe 53 and water outlet pipe 55 to be tightly wrapped by the foam material while passing through the foam cover, achieving the effect of both allowing the pipes to pass through and providing heat insulation for the water inlet pipe 53 and water outlet pipe 55.

[0050] In the structure provided in this specific embodiment, by adding an insulating foam cover 4 made of foam material with extremely low thermal conductivity, the heat in the medium cavity 21 is further isolated from the outside, which greatly increases the resistance of heat passing through the opening of the medium cavity 21 and the elastic sealing gasket 31, thereby reducing the heat waste of the medium cavity 21 and improving the energy utilization rate of the water dispenser 1.

[0051] Also see Figure 4 and Figure 5 The water inlet hole 41 and water outlet hole 42 on the insulating foam cover 4 are set one-to-one with the water inlet pipe 53 and water outlet pipe 55. The insulating foam cover 4 around the water inlet hole 41 and water outlet hole 42 can provide insulation, support, limit and guide the installation of the water inlet pipe 53 and water outlet pipe 55. It can provide shock absorption effect for the water inlet pipe 53 and water outlet pipe 55 to improve the structural stability of the water dispenser 1, while reducing heat loss at the water inlet pipe 53 and water outlet pipe 55 and improving the installation efficiency of the water dispenser 1.

[0052] like Figures 3-5 As shown in a specific embodiment of this application, the thermal insulation foam cover 4 abuts against the water circuit board body 5 and the elastic sealing gasket 31.

[0053] In the structure provided in this specific embodiment, the abutting position of the thermal insulation foam cover 4 is set between the water circuit board body 5 and the elastic sealing gasket 31, which avoids the negative impact that the foam material of the thermal insulation foam cover 4 may have on the flatness of the sealing surface between the water circuit board body 5 and the tank 2, and also ensures that the heat exchange medium in the medium cavity 21 will not be contaminated by the foam material of the thermal insulation foam cover 4.

[0054] See Figure 4 The relatively harder insulating foam cover 4, which is relatively stiffer than the elastic sealing gasket 31, can act as a force equalizing plate, distributing the pressure applied by the water circuit board body 5 more evenly to the entire elastic sealing gasket 31. This avoids deformation and collapse of the elastic sealing gasket 31 caused by point contact or stress concentration, and also ensures that the clamping force at all parts of the opening is consistent, thus guaranteeing the sealing effect of the medium cavity 21.

[0055] Since the tank body 2 is usually made of metal or hard plastic, the edge of the hard tank body 2 may cut, excessively compress or wear the fluffy foam material in the insulation foam cover 4. The elastic sealing gasket 31 is isolated between the insulation foam cover 4 and the tank body 2, which can also improve the durability of the insulation foam cover 4, improve the long-term stability and reliability of the water dispenser 1, and reduce the risk of heat and heat exchange medium leakage caused by damage to the insulation foam cover 4.

[0056] like Figures 3-5As shown in a specific embodiment of this application, the water circuit board assembly 3 further includes a plastic cap 43, and the elastic sealing gasket 31 includes a sealing flange 313 and a gasket surface 314. The plastic cap 43 at least covers part of the opening of the medium cavity 21. The sealing flange 313 abuts against the periphery of the plastic cap 43 and the inner wall of the tank body 2. The gasket surface 314 abuts against one side surface of the plastic cap 43, and the other side surface of the plastic cap 43 faces the heat-insulating foam cover 4. The plastic cap 43 includes a first docking sleeve 431 and a second docking sleeve 432. The water inlet hole 311, the first docking sleeve 431, and the water inlet pipe 53 are sleeved and fixed together. The water outlet hole 312, the second docking sleeve 432, and the water outlet pipe 55 are sleeved and fixed together.

[0057] In the structure provided in this specific embodiment, a plastic cap 43 is added as a transition structure between the water circuit board body 5 and the elastic seal. The rigid plastic cap 43 presses the sealing flange 313 of the elastic sealing gasket 31 against the inner wall of the medium cavity 21, thereby fixing and shaping the elastic sealing gasket 31. This further reduces the probability of deformation of the elastic sealing gasket 31 under pressure, ensuring the tightness of the connection between the water inlet pipe 53, the water outlet pipe 55 and the water inlet hole 311 and the water outlet hole 312, thereby improving the sealing and heat preservation performance of the tank body 2.

[0058] Meanwhile, since the plastic cap 43 is also provided with a first mating sleeve 431 and a second mating sleeve 432, the connection between the first mating sleeve 431 and the second mating sleeve 432 and the inlet pipe 53 and the outlet pipe 55 can further provide support for the inlet pipe 53 and the outlet pipe 55. This allows the inlet pipe 53 and the outlet pipe 55 to be fixed in the elastic sealing gasket 31, while also being rigidly locked to the plastic cap 43 by the first mating sleeve 431 and the second mating sleeve 432.

[0059] Optionally, the first mating sleeve 431 is fitted and fixed inside the water inlet hole 311, and the water inlet pipe 53 is fitted inside the first mating sleeve 431. The second mating sleeve 432 is fitted and fixed inside the water outlet hole 312, and the water outlet pipe 55 is fitted inside the second mating sleeve 432. The first mating sleeve 431 and the second mating sleeve 432 can assist the water inlet pipe 53 and the water outlet pipe 55 in mating with the water inlet hole 311 and the water outlet hole 312.

[0060] like Figure 5As shown, optionally, the plastic cap 43 may also include a negative pressure sealing structure 433. The negative pressure sealing structure 433 can be set and seal the ends of the first mating sleeve 431 and the second mating sleeve 432 away from the plastic cap 43. The negative pressure sealing structure 433 can open when the pressure difference between the two sides reaches a certain level, thereby connecting the water inlet pipe 53 with the water inlet hole 311 and the water outlet pipe 55 with the water outlet hole 312. For example, the negative pressure sealing structure 433 can be an elastic valve with a cross opening. When the pressure difference between the two sides of the elastic valve does not reach a preset pressure difference, the elastic valve closes under elastic action to close the cross opening. When the pressure difference between the two sides of the elastic valve reaches the preset pressure difference, the elastic valve deforms under pressure, causing the cross opening on it to open under pressure, thereby connecting the water inlet pipe 53 with the water inlet hole 311 and the water outlet pipe 55 with the water outlet hole 312.

[0061] See Figures 3-5 In one specific embodiment of this application, the water dispenser 1 further includes a heating rod 81 and a circuit board 82. The heating rod 81 is electrically connected to the circuit board 82. The elastic sealing gasket 31 is provided with a mounting sleeve 315. The heating rod 81 is inserted and fixed to the mounting sleeve 315. The heating part of the heating rod 81 is located in the medium cavity 21.

[0062] The heating rod 81 is a tubular or rod-shaped electric heating element that converts electrical energy into heat energy. Its core part is the internal heating section. The heating section refers to the area on the heating rod 81 that actually generates heat. This part is usually wrapped in a corrosion-resistant metal tube, and the inside contains dense resistance wires. The exterior of the heating rod 81 can be made of metal sheaths made of stainless steel, copper, etc., and insulating fillers such as magnesium oxide powder, which can efficiently conduct heat while ensuring complete isolation between the conductive parts and water.

[0063] The main circuit board 82 can be a PCB (Printed Circuit Board). The main circuit board 82 serves as the support for various electronic components in the water dispenser 1 and also as the carrier for the electrical connections between these components. The main circuit board 82 connects various electronic components together through copper foil traces on the board, forming a specific circuit functional module, thereby performing control, drive, or signal processing functions in the water dispenser 1. These electronic components may include chips, resistors, capacitors, interfaces, etc.

[0064] For example, the main circuit board 82 can be responsible for receiving the user's water dispensing button command, controlling the heating power of the water body, controlling the start and stop of the water pump in the main water circuit board 5, controlling the opening and closing of the valve body in the main water circuit board 5, and displaying the water temperature and working status. The water dispenser 1 may also include a power cord, one end of which is connected to an external power source, and the other end can be connected to the power input interface on the main circuit board 82 by means of soldering, plugging in terminals, etc., so as to introduce external power into the main circuit board 82, and then power various electronic components in the water dispenser 1.

[0065] In the structure provided in this specific embodiment, the heating rod 81 is fixed and sealed by the mounting sleeve 315 on the elastic sealing gasket 31. The mounting sleeve 315 can be interference-fitted with the heating rod 81, so that the installation and sealing of the heating rod 81 and the sealing of the tank 2 are completed in the same process, which greatly reduces the number of parts and optimizes the spatial layout at the opening.

[0066] like Figures 3-6 As shown in a specific embodiment of this application, the water dispenser 1 further includes a heat exchanger assembly 83. The heat exchanger assembly 83 has a heat exchange medium flow channel 831 and a water flow channel 832 that are isolated from each other and thermally connected. The water circuit board assembly 3 also has a second water inlet 71. One end of the heat exchange medium flow channel 831 is connected to the first water outlet 52, and the other end of the heat exchange medium flow channel 831 is connected to the second water inlet 71. The end of the second water inlet 71 away from the heat exchange medium flow channel 831 is connected to the medium cavity 21.

[0067] The heat exchanger assembly 83 is a device for enabling heat exchange between two fluids, allowing two fluids at different temperatures to transfer heat through a material with good thermal conductivity while remaining physically isolated. Exemplarily, the heat exchanger assembly 83 may include a plate heat exchanger or a shell-and-tube heat exchanger. A plate heat exchanger is composed of multiple corrugated metal plates stacked together, with the cold and hot fluids flowing within adjacent plate channels for heat exchange. A shell-and-tube heat exchanger consists of one tube nested inside another, with the two fluids flowing in the inner tube and the interlayer between the inner and outer tubes, respectively.

[0068] The water flow channel 832 is the passage through which the water supplied to the user in the heat exchanger assembly 83 flows. Cold water flows in from one end of the water flow channel 832, absorbs heat from the heat exchange medium flow channel 831, and becomes hot water, which flows out from the other end of the water flow channel 832. The heat exchange medium flow channel 831 is filled with heat exchange medium. After flowing out of the tank 2, the heat exchange medium flows through the heat exchange medium flow channel 831, transferring heat to the cold water in the water flow channel 832. After cooling itself, it flows back to the tank 2 for reheating, and so on in a cycle. The water in the heat exchange medium flow channel 831 and the water flow channel 832 can flow in opposite directions.

[0069] In the structure provided in this specific embodiment, heat exchange occurs through mutually isolated water flow channel 832 and heat exchange medium flow channel 831. After the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange medium flow channel 831 is heated in the tank 2, it transfers heat to the water flowing through the water flow channel 832 at the heat exchanger assembly 83. The medium in the heat exchange medium flow channel 831 can be preheated and stored in the tank 2, enabling instant heat exchange and providing an immediate heating effect when hot water is needed. Furthermore, the heat exchange medium that has completed the heat exchange process in the heat exchanger assembly 83 can be returned to the medium cavity 21 through the second water inlet 71, so that it can be reheated for the next heat exchange process.

[0070] like Figures 3-5 As shown in a specific embodiment of this application, the water circuit board assembly 3 further includes a return water pipe 73, at least a portion of the second water inlet 71 is formed in the return water pipe 73, one end of the return water pipe 73 is connected to the water circuit board body 5, and the other end of the return water pipe 73 is provided with a second water inlet 72 that communicates with the second water inlet 71, and the second water inlet 72 is located at the bottom of the medium cavity 21.

[0071] The return water pipe 73 is a dedicated pipe used to transport the low-temperature heat exchange medium, after undergoing the heat exchange process, back to the medium cavity 21. It serves as the physical carrier of the second water inlet 71. The second water inlet 71 is the complete path through which the low-temperature heat exchange medium flows from the outlet of the heat exchange medium flow channel 831 of the heat exchanger assembly 83 back to the tank 2. The second water inlet 72 refers to the opening of the return water pipe 73 inside the tank 2, which is the place where the low-temperature heat exchange medium finally enters the medium cavity 21.

[0072] Within the medium cavity 21, the high-temperature heat exchange medium floats due to its lower density, while the low-temperature heat exchange medium sinks due to its higher density, forming a natural temperature stratification with the upper part hot and the lower part cold. In the structure provided in this specific embodiment, by setting up a return water pipe 73, the low-temperature heat exchange medium that has completed the heat exchange process is input into the bottom of the medium cavity 21 through the second water inlet 72, perfectly matching this natural stratification principle. These low-temperature heat exchange media will naturally remain in the bottom area of ​​the medium cavity 21 and will not immediately mix with the high-temperature heat exchange medium above, thereby minimizing temperature disturbance to the heat exchange medium already stored in the tank 2.

[0073] Even if the user is obtaining high-temperature heat exchange medium from the medium cavity 21 and low-temperature heat exchange medium is continuously added, the heat exchange medium at the top of the tank 2 can maintain its temperature to the maximum extent, thereby ensuring that the high-temperature heat exchange medium flowing out from the first outlet water channel 52 is always at a stable temperature, which can ensure the temperature stability and high quality of the output heat exchange medium.

[0074] like Figures 2-6As shown, the water dispenser 1 may also include a thick-film heater 84, a water outlet path 85, a wastewater discharge path 86, and an exhaust passage 87. The thick-film heater 84 is connected downstream of the water flow path 832, further heating the water heated by the heat exchanger assembly 83. The thick-film heater 84, in conjunction with the heat exchanger assembly 83, can quickly raise the temperature of a large flow of water to the required level. The water outlet path 85 is connected downstream of the thick-film heater 84, outputting heated hot water. The water outlet path 85 can also be connected downstream of the inlet pipe 91, directly outputting water that does not flow into the tank 2 as room temperature water. The wastewater discharge path 86 can be located downstream of the medium cavity 21 and the water outlet path 85, thereby discharging excess water. The exhaust passage 87 connects to the top of the medium cavity 21 inside the tank 2, allowing the discharge of gas from the medium cavity 21.

[0075] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 As shown, optionally, the plastic cap 43 may also include an exhaust sealing structure 434. The exhaust sealing structure 434 is located within the exhaust passage 87 and is configured to allow unidirectional flow from the medium cavity 21 to the exhaust passage 87. When the air pressure in the medium cavity 21 is too high and needs to be released, the exhaust sealing structure 434 is activated; otherwise, the exhaust sealing structure 434 is closed. For example, the exhaust sealing structure 434 may be a resilient duckbill valve. When the pressure difference between the medium cavity 21 and the exhaust passage does not reach a preset value, the duckbill outlet of the resilient duckbill valve closes due to its own elasticity; otherwise, the duckbill outlet opens under air pressure.

[0076] See Figures 3-5 The water dispenser 1 may also include a drain pipe 74. One end of the drain pipe 74 is connected to the wastewater discharge line 86 and / or the water outlet line 85, and the other end is located at the bottom of the medium cavity 21, thereby enabling the output of the heat exchange medium with a lower temperature in the medium cavity 21, which can be discharged as low-temperature wastewater or supplied to the user as low-temperature water. At least a portion of the hot water output line 92 may be installed in the drain pipe 74.

[0077] See Figures 3-5 In one specific embodiment of this application, the return water pipe 73 is made of a low thermal conductivity material. The low thermal conductivity material may include cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), random copolymer polypropylene (PP-R), polybutene (PB), etc. Optionally, the return water pipe 73 may specifically be an aluminum-plastic composite pipe (PEX-AL-PEX), a glass fiber reinforced nylon pipe (PA-GF), an aerogel-coated pipe, a microporous foamed polyurethane pipe (PU), etc.

[0078] In the structure provided in this specific embodiment, by using a material with low thermal conductivity to prepare the return water pipe 73, the heat exchange between the heat exchange medium with a lower temperature after heat exchange in the return water pipe 73 and the heat exchange medium with a higher temperature in the medium cavity 21 can be weakened. When heat exchange medium is input through the return water pipe 73, the temperature of the heat exchange medium with a higher temperature in the medium cavity 21 can be prevented from fluctuating significantly, so that the heat exchange medium with a higher temperature can continue to be output to the outside, thereby ensuring the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger assembly 83.

[0079] In this application, the terms "embodiment" and "implementation" mean that a specific feature, part, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment can be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of these phrases in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor are they independent or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive with other embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand, explicitly and implicitly, that the embodiments described in this application can be combined with other embodiments. Furthermore, it should be understood that the features, parts, or characteristics described in the various embodiments of this application can be arbitrarily combined to form another embodiment that does not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solution of this application, provided there is no contradiction between them.

[0080] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to limit it. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the above preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications or equivalent substitutions to the technical solutions of this application should not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of this application.

Claims

1. A water dispenser, characterized in that, include: The tank body (2) is provided with a medium cavity (21); Water circuit board assembly (3), the water circuit board assembly (3) is connected to the tank body (2) and seals the opening of the medium cavity (21), the water circuit board assembly (3) is provided with a first water inlet (51) and a first water outlet (52), one end of the first water inlet (51) is connected to the water inlet pipe (91) and the other end is connected to the medium cavity (21), one end of the first water outlet (52) is connected to the medium cavity (21) and the other end is connected to the hot water output pipe (92); The water channel plate assembly (3) includes an elastic sealing gasket (31) and a water channel plate body (5). The water channel plate body (5) is disposed at the opening of the medium cavity (21) and fixedly connected to the tank body (2). The elastic sealing gasket (31) seals the opening of the medium cavity (21) and is disposed between the water channel plate body (5) and the opening of the medium cavity (21). The elastic sealing gasket (31) is provided with a water inlet hole (311) and a water outlet hole (312). The first water inlet path (51) and the first water outlet path (52) are provided on the water circuit plate body (5). The water inlet hole (311) is connected to the first water inlet path (51), and the water outlet hole (312) is connected to the first water outlet path (52).

2. The water dispenser according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water circuit board assembly (3) includes an inlet pipe (53) and an outlet pipe (55). One end of the inlet pipe (53) is connected to the water circuit board body (5). The first water inlet (51) is at least partially formed inside the inlet pipe (53). The end of the inlet pipe (53) away from the water circuit board body (5) is provided with a first water inlet (54) that communicates with the first water inlet (51). The first water inlet (54) is connected to the water inlet hole (311). The first water outlet (52) is at least partially formed inside the water outlet pipe (55). One end of the water outlet pipe (55) is connected to the main body of the water circuit board (5), and the other end is provided with a first water outlet (56) that connects to the first water outlet (52). The first water outlet (56) is connected to the water outlet hole (312).

3. The water dispenser according to claim 2, characterized in that, The water circuit board assembly (3) also includes a thermal insulation foam cover (4), which is stacked on the upper side of the elastic sealing gasket (31). The thermal insulation foam cover (4) is provided with a water inlet hole (41) and a water outlet hole (42). The water inlet pipe (53) passes through the water inlet hole (41), and the water outlet pipe (55) passes through the water outlet hole (42). The thermal insulation foam cover (4) abuts against the water circuit board body (5) and the tank (2).

4. The water dispenser according to claim 3, characterized in that, The water circuit board assembly (3) also includes a plastic cap (43), and the elastic sealing gasket (31) includes a sealing flange (313) and a gasket surface (314). The plastic cap (43) covers at least part of the opening of the medium cavity (21). The sealing flange (313) abuts against the periphery of the plastic cap (43) and the inner wall of the tank (2). The gasket surface (314) abuts against one side surface of the plastic cap (43), and the other side surface of the plastic cap (43) faces the thermal insulation foam cover (4). The plastic cap (43) includes a first mating sleeve (431) and a second mating sleeve (432). The water inlet (311), the first mating sleeve (431), and the water inlet pipe (53) are connected and fixed together. The water outlet (312), the second mating sleeve (432), and the water outlet pipe (55) are connected and fixed together.

5. The water dispenser according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The water dispenser (1) also includes a heating rod (81) and a circuit board (82). The heating rod (81) is electrically connected to the circuit board (82). The elastic sealing gasket (31) is provided with an installation sleeve (315). The heating rod (81) is inserted and fixed to the installation sleeve (315). The heating part of the heating rod (81) is located in the medium cavity (21).

6. The water dispenser according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The water dispenser (1) also includes a heat exchanger assembly (83), which has a heat exchange medium flow channel (831) and a water flow channel (832) that are isolated from each other and thermally connected. The water circuit board assembly (3) also has a second water inlet (71). One end of the heat exchange medium flow channel (831) is connected to the first water outlet (52), and the other end is connected to the second water inlet (71). The end of the second water inlet (71) away from the heat exchange medium flow channel (831) is connected to the medium cavity (21).

7. The water dispenser according to claim 6, characterized in that, The water circuit board assembly (3) also includes a return water pipe (73), at least part of the second water inlet (71) is formed in the return water pipe (73), one end of the return water pipe (73) is connected to the water circuit board body (5), and the other end is provided with a second water inlet (72) that connects to the second water inlet (71), and the second water inlet (72) is located at the bottom of the medium cavity (21).

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