Water heater

Abstract

The utility model relates to a water heater which comprises a shell. The container assembly comprises an inner container, a water inlet pipe and a water outlet pipe; the water inlet pipe and the water outlet pipe are arranged on the inner container; a vent valve is further arranged on the water outlet pipe; the sewage discharging assembly comprises a sewage discharging connector and a sewage discharging valve, and the sewage discharging valve is connected to the sewage discharging connector; wherein the inner container is arranged in the shell, the end of the water inlet pipe and the end of the water outlet pipe extend out of the shell, and the vent valve is located outside the shell; the blow-down connector is communicated with the bottom of the inner container, and the blow-down valve is located outside the shell. The pollution discharge efficiency of the water heater is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of electrical equipment technology, and in particular relates to a water heater. Background Technology

[0002] During the heating process, some substances in the water inside the water heater's inner tank may precipitate and form limescale, such as calcium bicarbonate and magnesium bicarbonate. When the water in the inner tank is heated, the calcium bicarbonate and magnesium bicarbonate dissolved in the water decompose, producing calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide, which are poorly soluble in water and precipitate in the inner tank, forming limescale.

[0003] Water heaters typically have a magnesium rod inside the tank. While this rod releases magnesium ions, reducing limescale buildup, limescale still accumulates at the bottom, affecting water quality, corroding the tank, and shortening its lifespan. To completely remove limescale, a drain assembly is needed. Chinese Patent Publication No. CN 204063606 U discloses a drain pipe, drain valve, and water heater. The drain pipe has a vent hole with a one-way flow device to maintain pressure balance within the tank during wastewater drainage. However, in practical use, the drain pipe's inability to both drain wastewater and intake air results in low drainage efficiency. Therefore, designing a technology to improve drainage efficiency is the technical problem this invention aims to solve. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a water heater that improves the sewage discharge efficiency of the water heater.

[0005] To achieve the above-mentioned objectives, the present invention employs the following technical solution:

[0006] This application discloses a water heater comprising:

[0007] shell;

[0008] A tank assembly, comprising an inner tank, an inlet pipe, and an outlet pipe; the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe are disposed on the inner tank; and an air vent valve is also disposed on the outlet pipe.

[0009] A sewage discharge assembly, comprising a sewage discharge connector and a sewage discharge valve, wherein the sewage discharge valve is connected to the sewage discharge connector;

[0010] The inner liner is disposed within the outer shell, the ends of the water inlet pipe and the water outlet pipe extend to the outside of the outer shell, and the vent valve is located outside the outer shell; the drain connector connects to the bottom of the inner liner, and the drain valve is located outside the outer shell.

[0011] In one embodiment, the water inlet pipe is provided with a flushing pipe, and the flushing pipe is provided with a flushing hole;

[0012] The flushing pipe is sleeved on the water inlet pipe and is located in the inner tank.

[0013] In one embodiment, the vent valve and the drain valve are both electrically controlled valves, and the vent valve and the drain valve are respectively configured such that the vent valve is also open when the drain valve is opened.

[0014] In one embodiment, an electric heating element is further provided in the inner liner;

[0015] The water heater also includes an anti-electric shock wall assembly, a sensor switch assembly, and a reminder component; the reminder component is used to remind the user to turn off the heating element.

[0016] The anti-electric shock wall assembly includes a cover disposed on the outer shell, the cover having an installation port located directly below the drain valve, and a cover plate detachably connected to the installation port;

[0017] The inductive switch assembly includes a sensing part and a signal part. The sensing part is fixed on the cover and located beside the mounting opening, and the signal part is installed on the inside of the cover plate.

[0018] The sensing part is electrically connected to the heating element, or the sensing part is connected to the prompting element.

[0019] In one embodiment, when the cover is installed, the sensing part is connected to the signal part, and the sensing part turns on the heating element or controls the indicator to be in the off state;

[0020] When the cover is detached, the sensing unit is disconnected from the signal unit. The sensing unit disconnects the heating element, or the sensing unit controls the indicator to open, in order to remind the user to disconnect the heating element.

[0021] In one embodiment, the upper end of the drain connector is connected to the inner liner, and the lower end of the drain connector is connected to the drain valve, which is used to connect to an external drain pipe assembly.

[0022] The drain valve includes a first valve body, a first valve core, and a knob. The upper end of the first valve body is connected to the drain connector. The first valve core is connected to the first valve body. The knob is connected to the first valve core and is used to control the opening and closing of the drain valve.

[0023] In one embodiment, the sewage pipe assembly includes an adapter and a sewage pipe connected to the adapter. A snap-fit ​​portion is formed on the outer wall of the first valve body, and a snap-fit ​​portion is formed on the adapter. The installation port is in an externally leaking state, and the snap-fit ​​portion can be connected to the snap-fit ​​portion by rotation.

[0024] In one embodiment, the drain connector has an installation channel, and a first fixed installation part is also provided on the drain connector; the side wall of the drain connector is also provided with a drain connection hole, and the drain connection hole communicates with the installation channel;

[0025] The sewage discharge assembly also includes:

[0026] A water treatment component configured to treat water quality.

[0027] A sleeve, the sleeve being provided with a locking part, the sleeve being disposed on the first fixed mounting part and communicating with the mounting channel;

[0028] The locking component is provided with a locking mating part and a second fixed mounting part. The locking component is disposed in the sleeve. The locking mating part is connected to the locking part. The water treatment component is disposed on the second fixed mounting part and extends to the outside of the sleeve.

[0029] In one embodiment, the locking part includes a first tooth structure and a second tooth structure, the first tooth structure and the second tooth structure are arranged opposite to each other, and the first tooth structure and the second tooth structure are formed on the inner wall of the sleeve;

[0030] The locking engagement part includes a positioning rib, which is arranged on the outer wall of the locking component;

[0031] The first tooth structure is configured to engage with the positioning rib such that the locking member rotates within the sleeve to switch the positioning rib to selectively engage with the second tooth structure in a locking relationship.

[0032] The second tooth structure is configured to engage with the positioning rib to prevent the locking member from disengaging from the sleeve.

[0033] In one embodiment, the inner wall of the sleeve is provided with a plurality of locking portions arranged at intervals, the plurality of locking portions being distributed around the axis of the sleeve, and a sliding guide groove is formed between two adjacent locking portions, the sliding guide groove extending along the axial direction of the sleeve.

[0034] In one embodiment, the first tooth structure is formed with a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface arranged at intervals, the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface being distributed sequentially around the axis of the sleeve.

[0035] The second tooth structure has a third inclined surface and a fourth inclined surface arranged at intervals, the third inclined surface and the fourth inclined surface being distributed sequentially around the axis of the sleeve;

[0036] Wherein, the projection of one end of the first inclined surface along the direction of the sleeve axis is located outside the third inclined surface, and the projection of the other end of the first inclined surface along the direction of the sleeve axis is located on the third inclined surface; the projection of one end of the second inclined surface along the direction of the sleeve axis is located on the third inclined surface, and the projection of the other end of the second inclined surface along the direction of the sleeve axis is located on the fourth inclined surface.

[0037] Compared with the prior art, the advantages and positive effects of the present invention are as follows: By adding a vent valve to the water outlet pipe, during the sewage discharge process, the sewage valve opens so that the water in the inner tank is discharged to the outside through the sewage outlet joint. At the same time, the vent valve on the water outlet pipe opens so that outside air can enter the top area of ​​the inner tank from the water outlet pipe independently of the sewage flow path. In this way, the inner tank maintains a state of pressure balance between the inside and outside, which is more conducive to the rapid discharge of water from the sewage outlet component, thereby improving the sewage discharge efficiency of the water heater.

[0038] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become clearer after reading the detailed embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0039] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the water heater of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection status of the sewage pipe assembly and the sewage valve;

[0042] Figure 3 This is one of the schematic diagrams of the cover structure;

[0043] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Enlarged diagram of point B in the image;

[0044] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the cover and the cover plate;

[0045] Figure 6 yes Figure 5Enlarged diagram of point C in the diagram;

[0046] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the cover plate structure;

[0047] Figure 8 This is the second schematic diagram of the cover structure;

[0048] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Enlarged diagram of point D in the diagram;

[0049] Figure 10 This is the third schematic diagram of the cover structure;

[0050] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Enlarged diagram of point E in the diagram;

[0051] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a water heater;

[0052] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 Enlarged diagram at point F in the diagram;

[0053] Figure 14 yes Figure 2 Enlarged diagram of point A in the diagram;

[0054] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the internal cross-section of a water heater;

[0055] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 Enlarged diagram of point G in the diagram;

[0056] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional diagram of the sewage discharge components;

[0057] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram showing the disassembled sewage discharge components;

[0058] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the first valve body structure;

[0059] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of the knob section structure;

[0060] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of the adapter structure;

[0061] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the fastener structure;

[0062] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of the protective cover structure;

[0063] Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a water heater;

[0064] Figure 25 yes Figure 24 Enlarged diagram of point H in the diagram;

[0065] Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram showing the installation location of the vent valve;

[0066] Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the second valve body and the outlet pipe;

[0067] Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram of the control unit structure;

[0068] Figure 29 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the control unit and the second valve body;

[0069] Figure 30 This is one of the cross-sectional views of another embodiment of the water heater of the present invention;

[0070] Figure 31 This is a second cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the water heater of the present invention;

[0071] Figure 32 This is a third cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the water heater of the present invention;

[0072] Figure 33 This is a fourth cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the water heater of the present invention;

[0073] Figure 34 This is a cross-sectional view of the sewage discharge component in another embodiment of the water heater of the present invention;

[0074] Figure 35 yes Figure 34 A magnified view of a portion of region I;

[0075] Figure 36 This is an exploded view of the sewage discharge component in another embodiment of the water heater of the present invention;

[0076] Figure 37 yes Figure 36 Schematic diagram of the middle sleeve;

[0077] Figure 38 for Figure 37 Cross-sectional view of the inner sleeve;

[0078] Figure 39 for Figure 36 A schematic diagram of the locking component.

[0079] Figure label:

[0080] 100. Outer shell;

[0081] 200. Inner liner assembly; 210. First inner liner; 220. Second inner liner;

[0082] 300. Inlet pipe; 310. Flushing pipe;

[0083] 400. Outlet pipe; 410. Switching valve; 420. T-connector; 430. Four-way connector;

[0084] 500. Vent valve;

[0085] 510. Control unit; 511. Handheld unit; 512. Socket; 513. Limiting protrusion; 5131. First limiting surface; 5132. Second limiting surface;

[0086] 520. Second valve body;

[0087] 530. Mounting part; 531. Stop end face; 532. Mounting hole;

[0088] 540. Second valve core; 541. Air passage;

[0089] 600. Sewage discharge components;

[0090] 610. Drain valve; 611. First valve body; 612. First valve core; 613. Valve shaft; 614. Limiting and fitting part; 615. Snap-fit ​​part; 616. Valve port;

[0091] 620. Adapter; 621. Upper connecting part; 622. Lower connecting part; 6221. Sealing protrusion; 623. Snap-fit ​​part; 6231. Snap-fit ​​groove;

[0092] 630. Drainage connector; 631. Upper connector; 632. Lower connector;

[0093] 640. Protective cover; 641. Top surface of the cover; 6411. Protective opening; 642. Peripheral surface of the cover; 643. Outer edge of the overlap; 644. Inner limiting part;

[0094] 650. Knob part; 651. Operating handle; 652. Shaft hole; 653. Limiting part;

[0095] 660. Liner kit; 661. Sealing ring; 662. Upper extension; 663. Connecting protrusion; 664. Connecting section; 665. Lower extension;

[0096] 670. Locking component; 671. Snap-fit ​​protrusion;

[0097] 680. Sewage pipe;

[0098] 700. Anti-electric shock wall structure; 701. Installation port; 702. Cutout;

[0099] 710. Cover body; 711. Upper support part; 712. Upper snap-fit ​​part; 713. Upper buckle; 714. Inner edge of support; 715. Second fastening part;

[0100] 720. Cover plate; 721. Overlapping part; 722. Lower support part; 723. Lower snap-fit ​​upright part; 7231. Lower buckle; 724. Insertion part; 725. Bending part; 726. First fastening part;

[0101] 730. Sensing unit; 740. Signal unit;

[0102] 800, heating element; 810, magnesium rod. Detailed Implementation

[0103] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0104] It should be noted that in the description of this invention, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," which indicate directions or positional relationships, are based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. These are merely for ease of description and do not indicate or imply that the device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0105] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; 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; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0106] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0107] The following disclosure provides many different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the invention. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples; such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. In addition, examples of various specific processes and materials are provided in this invention, but those skilled in the art will recognize the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0108] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 as well as Figure 24 This application proposes a water heater, specifically including a housing 100 and a tank assembly 200, wherein an installation cavity is formed inside the housing 100.

[0109] The tank assembly 200 is disposed in the mounting cavity and includes at least one inner tank, in which a heating cavity is formed. The tank assembly 200 is provided with an inlet pipe 300 and an outlet pipe 400.

[0110] A drain assembly 600 is connected to the bottom of the tank assembly 200 and is used to drain scale and other impurities that have settled in the tank assembly 200. The drain assembly 600 includes a drain connector 630 and a drain valve 610, with the drain valve connected to the drain connector.

[0111] The inner liner is disposed in the outer shell 100, the end of the water inlet pipe 300 and the end of the water outlet pipe 400 extend to the outside of the outer shell 100, the drain connector 630 is connected to the bottom of the inner liner, and the drain valve 610 is located outside the outer shell 100.

[0112] In one embodiment of this application, in order to improve the efficiency of sewage discharge, reference is made to... Figures 24-26A vent valve 500 is also provided on the water outlet pipe 400; the vent valve 500 is located outside the outer casing 100. The vent valve 500 is used to introduce air into the inner tank when the water heater discharges sewage, so as to balance the air pressure between the heating chamber of the inner tank and the outside, ensuring smooth drainage and thorough sewage discharge.

[0113] Specifically, the vent valve 500 is installed on the water outlet pipe 400. Before the vent valve 500 is opened, the water inlet pipe 300 needs to be closed to stop the water inlet, and the water outlet pipe 400 needs to be opened to drain the water in the water outlet pipe 400 so as to connect the vent valve 500 and the heating chamber.

[0114] Open the vent valve 500 to maintain a balance between the air pressure in the heating chamber and the outside, and connect the drain pipe assembly to the drain valve 610. Open the drain valve 610 to discharge the sewage in the heating chamber through the drain pipe assembly.

[0115] In one embodiment, such as Figure 30 As shown, in order to more effectively clean the inner tank, a rinsing pipe 310 is provided on the water inlet pipe, and a rinsing hole (unmarked) is provided on the rinsing pipe.

[0116] The flushing pipe is sleeved on the water inlet pipe and is located in the inner tank.

[0117] Specifically, during the process of discharging sewage from the inner tank through the sewage discharge component 600, after the sewage in the inner tank is discharged, water can be supplied to the inner tank through the water inlet pipe to supply water to the inner tank through the flushing hole on the flushing pipe 310, so as to clean the bottom of the inner tank and further flush out the dirt at the bottom of the inner tank.

[0118] In another embodiment, such as Figure 30 As shown, in order to more effectively clean the inner tank, a switching valve 410 is provided between the water inlet pipe 300 and the water outlet pipe 400. The switching valve 410 is configured to switch the water supply from the water inlet pipe 300 or the water outlet pipe 400 to the inner tank.

[0119] Specifically, in actual use, in order to better clean and remove the dirt adhering to the top and side walls of the inner tank, water can be sprayed from the top of the inner tank using the water outlet pipe 400 to achieve better cleaning of the inner tank.

[0120] After the sewage in the inner tank is drained, the switching valve 410 switches the water outlet pipe 400 to connect to the water supply pipe in the user's home so that water can be supplied to the inner tank through the water outlet pipe 400. The outlet of the water outlet pipe 400 is located at the top of the inner tank, so that the water output from the water outlet pipe 400 can be sprayed toward the top of the inner tank for better cleaning.

[0121] In one embodiment, the switching valve 410 is typically electrically controlled, i.e., the switching valve 410 is an electrically controlled directional valve. The electrically controlled directional valve has an inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The electrically controlled directional valve is configured to switch the inlet to be connected to either the first outlet or the second outlet. The inlet pipe 300 is connected to the first outlet, and the outlet pipe 400 is connected to the second outlet.

[0122] Specifically, in the normal water heating mode, the water inlet of the water heater is connected to the first water outlet.

[0123] In the wastewater discharge mode, the water inlet of the water heater is connected to the second water outlet.

[0124] In one embodiment, such as Figure 32 As shown, a three-way pipe 420 is provided on the water outlet pipe 400, and the three-way pipe 420 is connected to the second water outlet.

[0125] Specifically, since the water outlet pipe 400 needs to meet both the requirements of supplying water to the water terminal (faucet or shower head) and the requirements of supplying water to the inner tank for cleaning, a three-way pipe 420 is installed on the water outlet pipe 400 to meet the water connection requirements with the switching valve 410 and the water terminal.

[0126] In another embodiment, such as Figure 33 As shown, a four-way pipe 430 is provided on the water outlet pipe 400, and the four-way pipe 430 is connected to the second water outlet; a vent valve 500 is also provided on the four-way pipe.

[0127] Specifically, the outlet pipe 400 needs to meet the requirements of supplying water to the water terminal (faucet or shower head), supplying water to the inner tank for cleaning, and also allowing air to enter the inner tank during the sewage discharge process. Therefore, a four-way pipe 430 is installed on the outlet pipe 400 to facilitate water connection with the switching valve 410, the vent valve 500, and the pipes connected to the water terminal.

[0128] In one embodiment of this application, as Figure 31 As shown, to further improve sewage discharge efficiency, the inner tank is pressurized during the sewage discharge process to allow the sewage at the bottom to be discharged quickly. A pressure expansion tank 230 can also be installed on the inner tank.

[0129] Specifically, during normal use of the water heater, the pressure expansion tank 230 will expand due to the increased water pressure in the inlet pipe and the increased gas pressure caused by the hot water in the inner tank.

[0130] When sewage needs to be discharged through the sewage discharge assembly 600, the pressure expansion tank 230 can maintain the air pressure inside the tank greater than the outside air pressure in the initial stage of sewage discharge, so that the water in the tank can be discharged quickly and efficiently through the sewage discharge assembly 600.

[0131] Since the expansion tank 230 has a limited expansion deformation size, when the expansion tank 230 returns to its original size and the air pressure inside the tank is the same as outside, it is necessary to open the vent valve 410 on the water outlet pipe 400 to continue to meet the requirement that the water in the inner tank be discharged to the outside through the drain assembly 600.

[0132] In some embodiments, the pressure expansion tank is built into the outer casing and disposed on one side of the inner liner. Alternatively, the pressure expansion tank is external to the outer casing and communicates with the inner liner via the water inlet pipe.

[0133] In some embodiments of this application, the water heater is a dual-tank water heater, including a first inner tank 210 and a second inner tank 220 arranged in parallel.

[0134] That is, the first inner liner 210 and the second inner liner 220 are both arranged horizontally, with the first inner liner 210 located above the second inner liner 220. The first inner liner 210 and the second inner liner 220 are connected by a middle channel for water to circulate between the two inner liners.

[0135] Specifically, a first heating cavity is formed in the first inner liner 210, a second heating cavity is formed in the second inner liner 220, and an intermediate channel 230 is disposed between the first inner liner 210 and the second inner liner 220 to connect the first heating cavity and the second heating cavity.

[0136] Both the first heating chamber and the second heating chamber are equipped with heating elements 800 and magnesium rods 810. The heating element 800 is used to heat the water in the corresponding heating chamber.

[0137] Magnesium rod 810 can release magnesium ions, reducing limescale and other scale buildup inside the inner tank. However, with prolonged use, scale and other impurities will still form in the heating chamber and accumulate at the bottom of the heating chamber.

[0138] The inner tank assembly 200 is connected to an inlet pipe 300 and an outlet pipe 400, both of which are connected from the side wall of the outer shell 100 and the second inner tank 220 to the heating cavity.

[0139] The water inlet pipe 300 includes a water inlet connector and a water inlet pipe. The water inlet connector is connected to the second inner tank 220, and the water inlet pipe is connected to the water inlet connector. The water outlet of the water inlet pipe extends to a lower position of the second inner tank 220.

[0140] The water outlet pipe 400 includes a water outlet connector and a water outlet pipe. The water outlet connector is connected to the second inner tank 220, and the water outlet pipe is connected to the water outlet connector. The water inlet end of the water outlet pipe extends through the middle channel to the upper part of the first inner tank 210.

[0141] In order to thoroughly remove impurities from the heating chamber, this application provides a drain assembly 600 at the bottom of the water heater.

[0142] The sewage discharge component 600 is specifically connected to the lowest position of the side wall of the second inner tank 220 to completely discharge water and impurities from the first inner tank 210 and the second inner tank 220.

[0143] Combination Figure 3 In some embodiments of this application, the bottom of the outer casing 100 is also provided with an anti-electric shock wall structure 700, the anti-electric shock wall structure 700 includes a cover 710, and an installation port 701 is formed on the cover 710, the installation port 701 is located directly below the drain valve 610.

[0144] The drain pipe assembly is configured to connect from the mounting port 701 to the drain valve 610.

[0145] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 A cover plate 720 is detachably connected to the installation port 701. When the water heater needs to be drained, the cover plate 720 is removed from the installation port 701. Then, the drain pipe assembly is installed from the installation port 701 to the drain valve 610. The drain valve 610 is opened by operating the knob to drain the sewage in the heating chamber.

[0146] An inductive switch assembly is also provided on the anti-electric wall structure 700. The inductive switch assembly includes a sensing part 730 and a signal part 740. The sensing part 730 is fixed on the cover 710 and located next to the mounting port 701. The signal part 740 is installed on the inside of the cover plate 720.

[0147] The sensing unit 730 is electrically connected to the heating element 800 and is used to control the switching of the heating element 800.

[0148] That is, when the cover plate 720 is installed, the sensing unit 730 is connected to the signal unit 740, and the sensing unit 730 turns on the heating element 800.

[0149] With the cover plate 720 removed, the sensing unit 730 and the signal unit 740 are disconnected, the sensing unit 730 is de-energized, and the heating element 800 is also de-energized.

[0150] Alternatively, the sensor 730 can be connected to a prompting element, which is used to remind the user to turn off the heating element 800.

[0151] Specifically, the sensing unit 730 is connected to the prompting device via the control system. When the signal unit 740 is within the travel range of the sensing unit 730, that is, when the sensing unit 730 and the signal unit 740 are connected, the sensing unit 730 is energized and the control system controls the prompting device to be in the off state.

[0152] When the signal unit 740 is removed along with the cover plate 720, the signal unit 740 is disconnected from the sensing unit 730, the sensing unit 730 is de-energized, the control system controls the prompting element to turn on, and reminds the user to manually turn off the heating element 800 through sound or light prompts.

[0153] Specifically, with the cover plate 720 removed, the drain valve 610 is connected to the drain pipe assembly at the installation port 701. As the cover plate 720 is removed, the signal unit 740 cuts off the power to the heating element 800, thus de-energizing the heating element 800 and preventing it from continuing to heat the water in the heating chamber, which could pose a safety hazard.

[0154] In addition to directly controlling the power supply to and from the heating element 800, the sensing unit 730 can also be connected to an external indicator.

[0155] The warning device can be an alarm light or an alarm bell, using sound and light to remind the operator to manually turn off the heating element 800.

[0156] The specific installation method for the 720 cover plates is explained below:

[0157] refer to Figure 10 , Figure 11 An installation port 701 is formed on the lower side of the anti-electric wall structure 700. An upwardly extending cutout 702 is formed on one side of the installation port 701. A cover plate 720 is inserted into the installation port 701 from the side where the cutout 702 is located.

[0158] Combination Figures 7-9 One end of the cover plate 720 has an upwardly extending bend 725, which is adapted to the size of the cut 702.

[0159] With the installation direction of cover plate 720 as the first direction, in the horizontal plane, the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0160] Along the second direction, support inner edges 714 extending toward the mounting opening 701 are formed on both sides of the mounting opening 701.

[0161] The inner edge 714 of the support on the same side as the mounting port 701 can be continuous or discontinuous.

[0162] The cover plate 720 has a plug-in portion 724 on each of its two sides, and a plug-in groove is formed on the plug-in portion 724. The inner edge of the support 714 is plugged into the plug-in groove.

[0163] In some embodiments of this application, the other end of the cover plate 720 away from the bending portion 725 is provided with an overlap portion 721. The front side of the overlap portion 721 extends to the outer side of the cover plate 720. When the cover plate 720 is installed, the overlap portion 721 is connected to the inner side of the mounting opening 701.

[0164] The cover plate 720 achieves initial connection and positioning through the insertion part 724 and the overlapping part 721. In order to further improve the stability of the connection of the cover plate 720, the cover plate 720 and the cover body 710 are further fixed by fasteners.

[0165] Specifically, a first fastening part 726 is formed on the cover plate 720, and a through fixing hole is formed on the first fastening part 726. A second fastening part 715 extending toward the mounting opening 701 is formed on the inner side of the mounting opening 701, and a threaded hole is formed on the second fastening part 715. The fastener passes through the fixing hole from bottom to top and is connected in the threaded hole.

[0166] The inductive switch assembly can be a proximity switch, also known as a proximity sensor. It is a position switch that can be operated without direct mechanical contact with moving parts. When the signal unit 740 approaches the sensing surface of the sensing unit 730 to the operating distance, the sensing unit 730 can be switched without mechanical contact or the application of any pressure, thereby controlling the heating element 800 or the indicator element to operate.

[0167] Reference 3- Figure 9 12. Figure 13 For ease of installation, both the sensing unit 730 and the signal unit 740 are fixed to the cover 710 and the cover plate 720 by snap-fit.

[0168] Specifically, a lower support portion 722 is formed on the cover plate 720, the lower support portion 722 is located on the inner surface of the cover plate 720, the signal portion 740 is mounted on the lower support portion 722, an upper support portion 711 is provided on the cover body 710, and the sensing portion 730 is mounted on the upper support portion 711.

[0169] The sensing unit 730 and the signal unit 740 can be arranged vertically, that is, the mounting position of the upper support 711 is located directly above the mounting port 701, the sensing surface of the sensing unit 730 faces downward, and in the installed state, the signal unit 740 is located directly above the sensing unit 730.

[0170] Alternatively, the sensing unit 730 and the signal unit 740 may be arranged at an angle, for example, the sensing surface of the sensing unit 730 may be arranged vertically.

[0171] In an embodiment where the sensing unit 730 and the signal unit 740 are arranged vertically, the upper support unit 711 includes two upper latching parts 712 disposed opposite to each other. An upper latch 713 is formed on the upper latching parts 712, and the sensing unit 730 is connected between the upper latching parts 712 through the upper latch 713.

[0172] The sensing unit 730 is installed from bottom to top between the upper latching unit 712 and is limited by the upper latch 713.

[0173] The lower support portion 722 includes two lower locking portions 723 disposed opposite to each other. The lower locking portions 723 are provided with lower latches 7231, and the signal portion 740 is connected between the lower locking portions 723 through the lower latches 7231.

[0174] The signal unit 740 is installed from top to bottom between the lower latching unit 723 and is limited by the lower latch 7231.

[0175] The sewage discharge process of a water heater specifically includes the following steps:

[0176] Open the cover 710 on the anti-electric wall structure 700, connect the drain pipe assembly to the drain valve 610, and directly or indirectly cut off the power to the heating element 800 through the induction switch assembly.

[0177] At the same time, close the inlet valve on the inlet pipe 300 to stop water from entering the heating chamber.

[0178] Open the water outlet valve on the water outlet pipe 400 to discharge the water above the liquid level at the inlet port of the water outlet pipe in the heating chamber and the water inside the water outlet pipe 400.

[0179] When the vent valve 500 is opened, the control unit 510 connects the airflow channel and the water outlet channel in the drained water pipe to balance the air pressure in the heating chamber with the external air pressure.

[0180] Finally, open the knob 650 on the drain valve 610 to drain the sewage from the heating chamber.

[0181] For details, please refer to Figures 14-18 The sewage discharge assembly 600 specifically includes a sewage discharge connector 630, a sewage discharge valve 610, and a sewage discharge pipe assembly. The sewage discharge connector 630 is used to connect to the inner liner. Specifically, the sewage discharge connector 630 is connected to the side wall of the second inner liner 220.

[0182] The drain valve 610 includes a first valve body 611, a first valve core 612, and a knob part 650. The first valve core 612 is connected inside the first valve body 611, and the knob part 650 is connected to the first valve core 612. The knob part 650 is used to control the rotational position of the first valve core 612 relative to the first valve body 611, so as to control the opening and closing of the drain valve 610.

[0183] The sewage pipe assembly includes an adapter 620 and a sewage pipe 680 connected to the adapter 620.

[0184] With the mounting port 701 in an exposed state, that is, after the cover plate 720 is removed from the mounting port 701, the drain pipe assembly can be connected to the first valve body 611 by rotation and snap-fit.

[0185] The upper end of the first valve body 611 is connected to the drain connector 630. A snap-fit ​​part 615 is formed on the outer wall of the first valve body 611, and a snap-fit ​​part 623 is formed on the adapter 620. The snap-fit ​​part 623 is connected to the snap-fit ​​part 615 by rotation snap-fit.

[0186] When sewage needs to be discharged, the user or operator connects the sewage pipe 680 to the sewage valve 610, rotates the knob 650 to the open position, and discharges the water in the heating chamber through the sewage valve 610 and the sewage pipe assembly.

[0187] Specifically, in combination Figure 21 The adapter 620 includes an upper connecting part 621 and a lower connecting part 622, which are integrally formed.

[0188] The adapter 620 is connected to the lower end of the first valve body 611 via the upper connecting part 621. The inner wall size of the upper connecting part 621 is adapted to the outer wall size of the first valve body 611, and the upper connecting part 621 is sleeved on the outer wall of the first valve body 611.

[0189] A sealing portion is formed between the bottom of the first valve body 611 and the upper connecting portion 621 to prevent sewage leakage.

[0190] A snap-fit ​​portion 623 is formed above the upper connecting portion 621. There are at least two snap-fit ​​portions 623, which are distributed along the periphery of the upper connecting portion 621 to improve the stability of the connection.

[0191] The latching part 615 is provided on the side wall of the first valve body 611 and corresponds one-to-one with the latching part 623.

[0192] Specifically, each snap-fit ​​portion 623 has a snap-fit ​​groove 6231 with an opening on one side, and along the rotation direction of the adapter 620, each snap-fit ​​groove 6231 is located on the same side of the corresponding snap-fit ​​portion 623, so that each snap-fit ​​groove 6231 can be connected or separated from the corresponding latching portion 615 simultaneously.

[0193] During installation, the upper connecting part 621 is fitted onto the outer wall of the first valve body 611, the snap-fit ​​part 615 is located on one side of the snap-fit ​​part 623, and then the adapter 620 is rotated to connect the snap-fit ​​groove part 6231 with the corresponding snap-fit ​​part 615.

[0194] That is, as the adapter 620 rotates, the latching part 615 is connected to the latching groove 6231, realizing a one-to-one correspondence between the latching part 615 and the latching part 623.

[0195] The drain assembly 600 is used to connect with the inner tank to drain the scale formed in the inner tank. This makes the draining more thorough and prevents scale from accumulating in the inner tank for a long time, which helps to improve water quality and extend the service life of the inner tank.

[0196] When discharging sewage, the sewage pipe assembly is rotated and snapped onto the sewage valve 610, which helps to improve the connection efficiency. During connection, it is only necessary to put the adapter 620 on the outside of the first valve body 611, rotate the adapter 620, and connect the snap-fit ​​part 623 to the snap-fit ​​part 615 to realize the connection between the sewage pipe assembly and the sewage valve 610. This connection method is simple and convenient to operate, and can avoid the risk of the sewage pipe assembly falling off under the impact of water flow, thus ensuring higher safety.

[0197] Refer again Figure 19 , Figure 20 The first valve body 611 is a tubular structure with a valve chamber open at both ends inside. At least part of the valve chamber is spherical. The first valve core 612 is spherically shaped and is rotatably connected to the valve chamber.

[0198] A valve port 616 is formed on the side wall of the first valve body 611, and a valve shaft 613 is connected to the knob part 650. The valve shaft 613 passes through the valve port 616 and is connected to the first valve core 612.

[0199] The valve port 616 is circular, while the valve shaft 613 is non-circular. The first valve core 612 and the knob part 650 are respectively formed with shaft holes 652 that are adapted to the shape of the valve shaft 613. The two ends of the valve shaft 613 are connected to the first valve core 612 and the knob part 650 respectively. When the knob part 650 rotates, the first valve core 612 rotates in the valve chamber under the drive of the valve shaft 613.

[0200] A through channel is formed in the first valve core 612. When the first valve core 612 rotates to the point where the two ends of the internal channel are connected to the two ends of the first valve body 611 respectively, the drain valve 610 is in the open state, and the water in the heating inner cavity can be discharged through the drain connector 630 and the drain valve 610. Otherwise, the drain valve 610 is in the closed state.

[0201] In order to limit the rotation range of the knob 650, a limiting part 653 is formed on the knob 650, and a limiting mating part 614 is formed on the outer wall of the first valve body 611.

[0202] In one embodiment, the limiting part 653 is a protrusion formed on the knob part 650 and extending toward the side wall of the first valve body 611, and the limiting mating part 614 is two protrusions formed on the side wall of the first valve body 611 and extending outward. The limiting part 653 is located between the two protrusions formed by the limiting mating part 614. As the knob part 650 rotates, the limiting part 653 moves relative to the limiting mating part 614. In the open state, the limiting part 653 contacts one of the protrusions of the limiting mating part 614. In the closed state, the limiting part 653 contacts the other protrusion of the limiting mating part 614.

[0203] In another embodiment, the limiting part 653 is an arc-shaped groove formed on the knob part 650, the limiting mating part 614 is a protrusion formed on the outside of the valve port 616, and the limiting mating part 614 is connected inside the limiting part 653.

[0204] When the drain valve 610 is open, the knob 650 rotates until the first end of the limiting part 653 contacts and connects with the limiting mating part 614. When the drain valve 610 is closed, the knob 650 rotates until the second end of the limiting part 653 contacts and connects with the limiting mating part 614.

[0205] In other words, during the switching process, the limiting engagement part 614 on the knob part 650 moves within the limiting part 653. The limiting part 653 guides and limits the rotation of the rotating part, so that the opening and closing positions of the first valve core 612 are more accurate.

[0206] In some embodiments of this application, the first valve body 611 has an open structure at the top and bottom, and a bushing 660 is provided above the first valve body 611. A through-flow channel is formed in the bushing 660 to connect the drain connector 630 and the first valve body 611.

[0207] The bushing 660 is mainly used to facilitate the installation of the first valve core 612. The opening size on the upper side of the first valve body 611 is larger than that on the lower side. During installation, the first valve core 612 is first installed from the upper side of the first valve body 611 into the valve chamber. Then, the bushing 660 is connected above the first valve body 611 to limit the position of the first valve core 612.

[0208] refer to Figure 22 Specifically, the bushing 660 includes, from bottom to top, a lower extension 665, a connecting section 664, and an upper extension 662. The outer diameter of the connecting section 664 is larger than that of the upper extension 662 and the lower extension 665.

[0209] The connecting section 664 is in contact with the upper end of the first valve body 611, the lower extension section 665 is connected to the inner wall of the valve chamber, and the lower end of the lower extension section 665 is in contact with the first valve core 612. The upper extension section 662 is inserted into the drain connector 630.

[0210] To improve the sealing performance of the connection between the liner 660 and the drain connector 630, a sealing ring 661 is also provided between the connecting section 664 and the drain connector 630.

[0211] The lower extension section 665 has external threads on its outer wall and internal threads on its inner wall. The lower extension section 665 is connected to the valve chamber by the threads.

[0212] refer to Figure 17 The bushing 660 limits the position of the first valve core 612. During installation, the first valve core 612 is first installed into the valve chamber from top to bottom. Then, the bushing 660 is connected above the first valve body 611, and the lower extension 665 is inserted into the first valve body 611 and contacts the first valve core 612 to limit the position of the first valve core 612 so that the first valve core 612 can rotate in the valve chamber.

[0213] The bushing 660 and the drain connector 630 are connected by a locking member 670. The lower end of the locking member 670 has an inwardly extending snap-fit ​​protrusion 671, and the outer wall of the connecting section 664 also has an outwardly extending connecting protrusion 663. The snap-fit ​​protrusion 671 snaps into the lower end of the connecting protrusion 663, and the upper end of the locking member 670 is threaded onto the outer wall of the drain connector 630.

[0214] Specifically, the drain connector 630 includes an upper connector 631 connected to the inner liner and a lower connector 632 located on the outside of the inner liner, and the upper end of the locking member 670 is specifically connected to the lower connector 632 of the drain connector 630.

[0215] The inner diameter of the locking protrusion 671 of the locking member 670 is smaller than the outer diameter of the first valve body 611. Before the bushing 660 is connected to the first valve body 611, the locking member 670 is first sleeved on the outside of the bushing 660 from bottom to top. Then the bushing 660 is connected to the inside of the first valve body 611. Finally, the locking member 670 is threaded onto the drain connector 630.

[0216] Refer again Figure 21 In some embodiments of this application, the drain pipe 680 is fitted onto the lower connecting part 622 of the adapter 620 by a tight fit.

[0217] Specifically, multiple annular sealing protrusions 6221 are provided at intervals on the outer wall of the lower connecting part 622 to improve the tightness of the connection between the sewage pipe 680 and the lower connecting part 622.

[0218] A connection hole is formed on the housing 100, and the sewage discharge assembly 600 extends from the connection hole to the outside of the housing 100.

[0219] In some embodiments of this application, since foaming material is also filled between the inner liner and the outer shell 100, a protective cover 640 is provided on the drain connector 630 to prevent leakage of the foaming material. The lower side of the protective cover 640 is connected to the outer shell 100.

[0220] The drain connector 630 is connected to the lowest position in the heating cavity of the inner liner. The drain connector 630 includes an upper connector 631 and a lower connector 632. The locking member 670 is connected to the lower connector 632. The outer diameter of the upper connector 631 is larger than that of the lower connector 632. A transition surface is formed between the upper connector 631 and the lower connector 632. The protective cover 640 is connected to the transition surface.

[0221] For details, please refer to Figure 23 The protective cover 640 includes a top surface 641, a peripheral surface 642, and an overlapping outer edge 643 formed at the bottom of the peripheral surface 642 and extending outward. A protective opening 6411 is formed in the middle of the top surface 641. The top surface 641 is fitted onto the drain connector 630 from bottom to top. The size of the protective opening 6411 on the top surface 641 is smaller than the outer diameter of the upper connector 631. In the installed state, the top surface 641 is fitted onto the outside of the transition surface through the protective opening 6411.

[0222] An inner limiting part 644 is formed on the peripheral surface 642 of the cover. During installation, the protective cover 640 is installed from bottom to top on the outside of the sewage component 600 through the connection hole of the outer shell 100. The inner limiting part 644 is retracted under the action of the connection hole until it passes through the connection hole and then resets under its own elasticity, so that the outer shell 100 is connected between the buckle part 615 and the overlapping outer edge 643.

[0223] The protective cover 640 is used to isolate the sewage discharge component 600 from the foamed inner cavity, to prevent the foamed material from contacting the sewage discharge component 600 and affecting the sewage discharge operation, and to help prevent the foamed material from leaking from the connection hole, thus achieving the effect of sealing and protection.

[0224] The shape of the overlapping outer edge 643 is adapted to the housing 100 so that the housing 100 fits tightly with the overlapping outer edge 643, reducing the leakage of the foam.

[0225] The knob 650 is also equipped with an operating handle 651 for easy hand operation.

[0226] In one embodiment, combined with Figure 27 The vent valve 500 is installed on the water outlet connector. The vent valve 500 includes a second valve body 520, a second valve core 540, and a control unit 510. The second valve body 520 is connected to the water outlet connector, and the second valve body 520 and the water outlet connector are integrally formed.

[0227] The second valve core 540 is installed inside the second valve body 520. The control unit 510 is connected to the second valve core 540. An airflow channel is formed inside the second valve body 520, and a water outlet channel is formed inside the water outlet connector. The second valve core 540 is used to control the opening and closing of the airflow channel and the water outlet channel.

[0228] Specifically, an air passage 541 is formed inside the second valve core 540, and the control unit 510 controls the second valve core 540 to rotate inside the second valve body 520, thereby controlling the opening and closing of the air passage 541 and the airflow channel.

[0229] The second valve body 520 is set at an angle on the side wall of the water outlet connector, that is, the central axis of the second valve body 520 is arranged at an angle to the central axis of the water outlet connector.

[0230] The second valve body 520 has a vent valve cavity, at least part of which is spherical. The second valve core 540 is also spherical in shape and rotates within the vent valve cavity to control the opening and closing of the airflow channel.

[0231] The control unit 510 is mounted on the side wall of the second valve body 520 and is connected to the second valve core 540 via a valve stem.

[0232] The second valve body 520 has a mounting part 530 on its side wall. The mounting part 530 has a mounting hole 532 that communicates with the vent valve cavity. The valve stem passes through the mounting hole 532 and its two ends are connected to the control part 510 and the second valve core 540, respectively.

[0233] The mounting hole 532 is circular, while the cross-section of the valve stem is non-circular, such as square or elliptical. Both the control unit 510 and the first valve core have sockets 512 that are adapted to the cross-sectional shape of the valve stem. The two ends of the valve stem are respectively inserted into the sockets 512 of the control unit 510 and the first valve core to realize the rotation control of the second valve core 540 by the control unit 510.

[0234] A stop portion is formed on the mounting portion 530, and a limit protrusion 513 is formed on the control portion 510. The limit protrusion 513 is configured such that when the control portion 510 is in the open and closed states, the limit protrusion 513 contacts the corresponding position of the stop portion.

[0235] In some embodiments of this application, the stop portion includes at least one stop end face 531 formed on the mounting portion 530. For example, the stop portion includes two stop end faces 531 disposed opposite to each other.

[0236] The number of limiting protrusions 513 is equal to the number of stop end faces 531, corresponding to two stop end faces 531, in combination. Figure 28 , Figure 29 The control unit 510 has two opposing limit protrusions 513.

[0237] A first limiting surface 5131 and a second limiting surface 5132 are formed on the limiting protrusion 513.

[0238] The first limiting surface 5131 and the second limiting surface 5132 are configured such that, in the open state, the control unit 510 rotates until the first limiting surface 5131 contacts the stop end surface 531, and in the closed state, the control unit 510 rotates until the second limiting surface 5132 contacts the stop end surface 531.

[0239] In addition to the aforementioned limiting method, in some other embodiments, the control unit 510 may also have an arc-shaped rotating guide groove formed on the mounting part 530, and a guide rail protrusion designed at the corresponding position of the control unit 510. When the control unit 510 is connected to the mounting part 530, the guide rail protrusion is connected in the rotating guide groove, and as the control unit 510 rotates, the guide rail protrusion moves along the rotating guide groove.

[0240] The rotating guide groove is configured such that, in the open state, the control unit 510 rotates until the guide rail protrusion contacts one end of the rotating guide groove, and in the closed state, the control unit 510 rotates until the guide rail protrusion contacts the other end of the rotating guide groove.

[0241] The control unit 510 is also equipped with a handheld unit 511 for user convenience.

[0242] The vent valve 500 is installed on the water outlet pipe 400. It has a simple structure and low manufacturing cost. The air intake and drainage processes do not affect each other. It can realize simultaneous drainage and air intake, or only air intake without drainage, making it more convenient to use and more widely applicable.

[0243] The vent valve 500 is designed to balance the air pressure between the heated inner cavity and the outside during the sewage discharge process.

[0244] Since the vent valve 500 is located on the water outlet pipe 400, the water inlet pipe 300 needs to be closed to stop the water inlet before the vent valve 500 is opened, and the water outlet pipe 400 needs to be opened to drain the water in the water outlet pipe so as to connect the vent valve 500 and the heating chamber.

[0245] Then, open the vent valve 500 to maintain the air pressure balance between the heating chamber and the outside, connect the drain pipe assembly to the drain valve 610, open the drain valve 610, and discharge the sewage in the heating chamber from the drain pipe assembly.

[0246] In another embodiment of this application, such as Figure 30 , Figures 34-39 As shown, in order to enrich the functions of the water heater and make full use of the installation position of the drain assembly 600 to increase the water treatment function of the water heater in the inner tank, the drain assembly 600 can also be equipped with a water treatment component 1, which is configured to treat the water in the inner tank.

[0247] Specifically, the drain connector 630 has an installation channel 21, and the drain connector 630 is also provided with a first fixed installation part 22.

[0248] The sewage discharge assembly 600 also includes a sleeve 3 and a locking part 31. The sleeve 3 is provided with the locking part 31, and the sleeve 3 is disposed on the first fixed mounting part 22 and communicates with the mounting channel 21.

[0249] The locking part 31 is provided with a locking engagement part 41 and a second fixed mounting part 42. The locking part 31 is disposed in the sleeve 3. The locking engagement part 41 is connected to the locking part 31. The water treatment component is disposed on the second fixed mounting part and extends to the outside of the sleeve 3.

[0250] Specifically, the water treatment component 1 has components that perform functional treatment of water. Its physical form can be a functional device used in conventional water heaters, such as a magnesium rod, or a water treatment pipe filled with functional fillers (natural minerals, scale inhibitors). During use, the water treatment component 1 is placed inside the water tank to treat the water in the tank accordingly. The specific physical form of the water treatment component 1 is not limited or described in detail here.

[0251] As the usage time increases, the function of water treatment component 1 may weaken or fail, thus requiring replacement and maintenance of water treatment component 1.

[0252] The sewage discharge assembly provided in this application includes a water treatment component 1. Furthermore, to facilitate better maintenance of the water treatment component 1, the water treatment component 1 can be detachably installed into the sewage discharge assembly. This allows for convenient and quick removal of the water treatment component 1 from the sewage discharge assembly during later use when replacement or maintenance is required.

[0253] Specifically, in order to meet the requirements for installation on the water tank, the sewage discharge component is equipped with a sewage discharge connector 630, which is used to seal and fix the sewage discharge component on the water tank, thereby enabling the sewage discharge component to be assembled on the water tank.

[0254] To meet the requirements for disassembly and assembly of the water treatment component 1, a sleeve 3 is also provided on the drain connector 630. The sleeve 3 can extend into the interior of the water tank, and the sleeve 3 is connected to the installation channel 21 on the drain connector 630. In this way, the water treatment component 1 can be inserted into the sleeve 3 through the installation channel 21 to complete the installation, and the water treatment component 1 can also be disassembled and pulled out from the sleeve 3 through the installation channel 21.

[0255] To allow for detachable installation within the sleeve 3, the water treatment component 1 is fitted with a locking part 31, which is used to detachably assemble it into the sleeve 3. Specifically, the locking part 31 is equipped with a locking engagement part 41, which engages with the locking part 31 on the sleeve 3 to lock as needed, thus fulfilling the requirement of fixing the water treatment component 1 within the sleeve 3. Furthermore, when the locking engagement part 41 is unlocked from the locking part 31, the water treatment component 1 can be smoothly removed from the sleeve 3, allowing for individual removal of the water treatment component 1 without disassembling the entire sewage discharge assembly's water tank.

[0256] There are various structural entities that enable the locking engagement between the locking part 31 and the locking mating part 41 to allow the water treatment component 1 to be detachably installed. Examples are given below.

[0257] In one embodiment of this application, the locking part 31 includes a first tooth structure 311 and a second tooth structure 312, the first tooth structure 311 and the second tooth structure 312 are arranged opposite to each other, and the first tooth structure 311 and the second tooth structure 312 are formed on the inner wall of the sleeve 3.

[0258] The locking engagement part 41 includes a positioning rib, which is arranged on the outer wall of the locking part 31.

[0259] The first tooth structure 311 is configured to cooperate with the positioning rib so that the locking part 31 rotates in the sleeve 3 to switch the positioning rib to selectively form a locking engagement with the second tooth structure 312;

[0260] The second tooth structure 312 is configured to cooperate with the positioning rib to prevent the locking part 31 from disengaging from the sleeve 3.

[0261] Specifically, a first tooth structure 311 and a second tooth structure 312 are formed on the inner wall of the sleeve 3. Correspondingly, a positioning rib is provided on the locking part 31, which can slide up and down between the first tooth structure 311 and the second tooth structure 312. The first tooth structure 311 can cooperate with the upper end of the positioning rib so that the positioning rib rotates at a certain angle in the sleeve 3, thereby controlling the positioning rib to form a locking engagement with the second tooth structure 312, and switching the positioning rib and the second tooth structure 312 to unlock.

[0262] When the positioning rib and the second tooth structure 312 form a locking engagement, the water treatment component 1 will be installed and fixed on the sleeve 3; and when the positioning rib and the second tooth structure 312 are unlocked, the water treatment component 1 can be removed from the sleeve 3.

[0263] In some embodiments, the inner wall of the sleeve 3 is provided with a plurality of locking portions 31 arranged at intervals. The plurality of locking portions 31 are distributed around the axis of the sleeve 3, and a sliding guide groove 313 is formed between two adjacent locking portions 31. The sliding guide groove 313 extends along the axial direction of the sleeve 3.

[0264] Specifically, to improve installation reliability and ensure that the water treatment component 1 can be reliably installed on the sleeve 3 when the locking part 31 is in the locked state, multiple locking parts 31 can be provided in the sleeve 3. The multiple locking parts 31 are distributed around the axis of the sleeve 3. Correspondingly, multiple locking mating parts 41 can be arranged along the circumferential direction to cooperate with the corresponding locking parts 31, so that the locking parts 31 in the locked state can play a good role in fixing and installing the water treatment component 1.

[0265] In some embodiments, the first tooth structure 311 is formed with a first inclined surface 3111 and a second inclined surface 3112 arranged at intervals, the first inclined surface 3111 and the second inclined surface 3112 being distributed sequentially around the axis of the sleeve 3.

[0266] The second tooth structure 312 is formed with a third inclined surface 3121 and a fourth inclined surface 3122 arranged at intervals, and the third inclined surface 3121 and the fourth inclined surface 3122 are distributed sequentially around the axis of the sleeve 3;

[0267] Wherein, the projection of one end of the first inclined surface 3111 along the axial direction of the sleeve 3 is located outside the third inclined surface 3121, and the projection of the other end of the first inclined surface 3111 along the axial direction of the sleeve 3 is located on the third inclined surface 3121; the projection of one end of the second inclined surface 3112 along the axial direction of the sleeve 3 is located on the third inclined surface 3121, and the projection of the other end of the second inclined surface 3112 along the axial direction of the sleeve 3 is located on the fourth inclined surface 3122.

[0268] Specifically, the tooth surface distribution of the first tooth structure 311 and the second tooth structure 312 is designed accordingly. When the positioning rib moves to the first tooth structure 311 and engages with the first inclined surface 3111, the locking part 31 will rotate, causing the positioning rib to rotate above the third inclined surface 3121. Thus, as the locking part 31 moves towards the second tooth structure 312, the positioning rib will slide along the third inclined surface 3121, causing the locking part 31 to rotate by a certain angle. At this time, the positioning rib of the locking part 31 is locked to the second tooth structure 312, and the positioning rib will be arranged opposite to the second inclined surface 3112 of the first tooth structure 311.

[0269] When disassembly is required, the positioning rib moves toward the first tooth structure 311 again and drives the locking part 31 to rotate a certain angle via the second inclined surface 3112. Then, the positioning rib will be opposite to the fourth inclined surface 3122. At this time, the positioning rib moves toward the second tooth structure 312 again and is guided by the fourth inclined surface 3122, so that the positioning rib of the locking part 31 is disengaged from the second tooth structure 312 to achieve unlocking.

[0270] In some embodiments, the first tooth structure 311 is formed with a first guide surface 3113, which extends along the axial direction of the sleeve 3 and is located between the first inclined surface 3111 and the second inclined surface 3112.

[0271] The second tooth structure 312 has a second guide surface 3123, which extends along the axial direction of the sleeve 3 and is located between the third inclined surface 3121 and the fourth inclined surface 3122.

[0272] Wherein, the projection of the first guide surface 3113 along the axial direction of the sleeve 3 is located on the third inclined surface 3121; the projection of the second guide surface 3123 along the axial direction of the sleeve 3 is located on the second inclined surface 3112.

[0273] Specifically, the first guide surface 3113 guides the positioning rib to move toward the third inclined surface 3121 as it moves away from the first tooth structure 311. Similarly, the second guide surface 3123 guides the positioning rib to move toward the second inclined surface 3112 as it moves away from the second tooth structure 312. This ensures accurate locking and unlocking of the locking part 31, improving reliability.

[0274] In some embodiments, one end of the positioning rib is formed with a first mating inclined surface 411, which is configured to contact and engage with the first inclined surface 3111 or the second inclined surface 3112 to drive the locking member to rotate.

[0275] The other end of the positioning rib is formed with a second mating inclined surface 411, which is configured to contact and engage with the third inclined surface 3121 or the fourth inclined surface 3122 to drive the locking component to rotate.

[0276] Specifically, in order to enable the positioning rib to cooperate with the first tooth structure 311 and the second tooth structure 312 to drive the locking part 31 to rotate smoothly, a first mating inclined surface 411 and a second mating inclined surface 411 can be provided at both ends of the positioning rib respectively. The inclination angle of the first mating inclined surface 411 and the second mating inclined surface 411 will match the mating inclined surface, so that the positioning rib can rotate smoothly after contacting the inclined surface of the corresponding tooth structure.

[0277] In another embodiment, the sleeve 3 is provided with an elastic element 32, which is configured to apply a spring force to the locking part 31 toward the drain connector 630.

[0278] Specifically, an elastic element 32 is provided in the sleeve 3, which applies elastic force to the locking part 31 to facilitate operation. In actual use, the operator only needs to apply a pushing force to the locking part 31 in the sleeve 3 from the outside to move the locking part 31 toward the first tooth structure 311, and the reset of the locking part 31 is achieved by applying a reset force through the elastic element 32.

[0279] The elastic element 32 is a spring, and the end of the sleeve 3 away from the drain connector 630 is provided with a positioning part, and the spring is clamped between the positioning part and the locking part 31.

[0280] Specifically, a spring is used to fit the locking part 31, and the spring will apply a spring force to the locking part 31 in the direction of the second tooth structure 312. A positioning ring 35 is provided at the end of the sleeve 3 so that the spring is pressed between the positioning ring 35 and the locking part 31, and the water treatment component 1 can extend through the positioning ring 35 to the outside of the sleeve 3.

[0281] In some embodiments, the first fixed mounting portion 22 is a first internal threaded hole formed in the inner wall of the mounting channel 21; the end of the sleeve 3 is provided with a plurality of extension portions 33, the plurality of extension portions 33 are distributed around the axis of the sleeve 3, an auxiliary guide groove 34 is formed between two adjacent extension portions 33, the auxiliary guide groove 34 is connected to the corresponding sliding guide groove 313, and the outer wall of the extension portion 33 is provided with a first external threaded section; the first external threaded section is threadedly connected in the first internal threaded hole.

[0282] Specifically, the sleeve 3 can be fixedly installed on the drain connector 630 by means of threaded connection, and the first external thread segment formed on the sleeve 3 can meet the requirements of threaded fixed connection; at the same time, the auxiliary guide groove 34 formed between the adjacent extensions 33 will communicate with the corresponding sliding guide groove 313 formed in the sleeve 3, so as to guide the positioning rib through the cooperation of the auxiliary guide groove 34 and the sliding guide groove 313 during the disassembly and assembly of the locking part 31.

[0283] In another embodiment of this application, the locking part 31 and the locking mating part 41 can be structurally represented by a threaded connection. Specifically, in one embodiment, the locking part 31 is a second internal threaded hole formed on the inner wall of the sleeve 3, and the locking mating part 41 is a second external threaded section formed on the outer wall of the locking part 31, the second external threaded section being threadedly connected to the second internal threaded hole. Specifically, during use, the locking part 31 is screwed on to achieve assembly and disassembly with the sleeve 3.

[0284] Alternatively, in another embodiment, the locking part 31 and the locking mating part 41 can be structurally represented by a snap-fit ​​mechanism. Specifically, the locking part 31 is a positioning groove formed on the inner wall of the sleeve 3, and the locking mating part 41 is an elastic protrusion formed on the outer wall of the locking part 31, with the elastic protrusion engaging in the positioning groove. Specifically, during use, the locking part 31 is pushed into the sleeve 3 to deform the elastic protrusion and engage in the positioning groove, thus achieving assembly. When disassembly is required, the locking part 31 can be clamped with pliers and pulled outwards to disengage the elastic protrusion from the positioning groove.

[0285] In one embodiment of this application, the first fixed mounting part 22 is a fixed insertion hole communicating with the mounting channel 21, and the sleeve 3 is inserted into the fixed insertion hole.

[0286] Specifically, the sleeve 3 can be inserted into the fixed socket to be installed on the drain connector 630.

[0287] In one embodiment of this application, the second fixed mounting portion 42 is a slot formed on the locking portion 31, and the water treatment component 1 is inserted into the slot.

[0288] Specifically, the water treatment component 1 is inserted into the slot to achieve installation on the locking part 31.

[0289] Alternatively, the second fixed mounting part 42 is a threaded groove formed on the locking part 31, and the water treatment component 1 is threadedly connected in the threaded groove.

[0290] Specifically, the water treatment component 1 is fixedly connected to the locking part 31 by a threaded connection.

[0291] In one embodiment of this application, the water treatment component 1 may be a magnesium rod.

[0292] Alternatively, the water treatment component 1 may be a water treatment pipe, in which functional filler is provided and several through holes are provided.

[0293] Specifically, for water treatment component 1, when functional fillers are required to perform corresponding functional treatments on the water, a water treatment pipe can be used to install the functional fillers to meet the installation requirements. The water treatment pipe has through holes to allow water to enter the pipe and contact the functional fillers, thereby treating the water in the tank. The functional fillers are natural minerals and scale inhibitors.

[0294] In one embodiment of this application, the side wall of the drain connector 630 is further provided with a drain connection hole 23, which is connected to the installation channel 21.

[0295] Specifically, to enrich the functionality of the sewage discharge component, a drain connection hole 23 can be provided on the sewage discharge connector 630. During use, when it is necessary to drain the water in the water tank, the water in the water tank can be discharged outward through the drain connection hole 23 located at the bottom, thereby realizing the sewage discharge function.

[0296] Meanwhile, a drain valve 610 is also provided at the end of the drain connector 630 away from the sleeve 3.

[0297] Specifically, by providing a drain valve 610 on the drain connector 630, when the user needs to drain the water in the water tank, the drain valve 610 can be opened so that the water in the water tank can be discharged out through the drain connection hole 23.

[0298] When it is necessary to replace the water treatment component 1, the drain valve 610 can be removed, and then the locking part 31 in the sleeve 3 and the water treatment component 1 can be removed through the installation channel 21.

[0299] By installing a sleeve on the drain connector, the sleeve can extend into the water tank to provide support and guidance. The water treatment component is mounted on a locking component. The water treatment component is inserted into the sleeve and locked in place by the locking component, thus securing the water treatment component in place. When the water treatment component needs to be replaced, the locking component is operated to disengage from the locking part of the sleeve, allowing the water treatment component to be pulled out of the water tank through the sleeve and into the installation channel for replacement. This eliminates the need to completely remove the drain assembly from the water tank, making disassembly and replacement convenient and improving maintenance ease.

[0300] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0301] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and are not intended to limit them. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions claimed by the present invention.

Claims

1. A water heater, characterized by, The water heater comprises: a shell; a tank assembly comprising an inner tank, a water inlet pipe and a water outlet pipe; the water inlet pipe and the water outlet pipe are arranged on the inner tank; a vent valve is further arranged on the water outlet pipe; a drain assembly comprising a drain joint and a drain valve, the drain valve being connected to the drain joint; wherein the inner tank is arranged in the shell, the end of the water inlet pipe and the end of the water outlet pipe extend out of the shell, the vent valve is located outside the shell; the drain joint communicates with the bottom of the inner tank, and the drain valve is located outside the shell.

2. The water heater of claim 1, wherein A flushing pipe is arranged on the water inlet pipe, and a flushing hole is arranged on the flushing pipe; The flushing pipe is sleeved on the water inlet pipe, and the flushing pipe is arranged in the inner tank.

3. The water heater of claim 1, wherein The vent valve and the drain valve are electrically controlled valves, and the vent valve and the drain valve are configured to be in an open state at the same time when the drain valve is opened.

4. The water heater of claim 1, wherein An electric heating element is further arranged in the inner tank; The water heater further comprises an anti-electricity wall assembly, an induction switch assembly and a prompt element; the prompt element is used to remind a user to turn off the heating element; The anti-electricity wall assembly comprises a cover arranged on the shell, the cover is formed with a mounting opening, the mounting opening is located directly below the drain valve, and a cover plate is detachably connected to the mounting opening; The induction switch assembly comprises an induction part and a signal part, the induction part is fixed to the cover and located beside the mounting opening, and the signal part is mounted to the inner side of the cover plate; Wherein, the induction part is electrically connected with the heating element, or the induction part is connected with the prompt element.

5. The water heater of claim 4, wherein In the mounting state of the cover plate, the induction part is connected with the signal part, the induction part is connected with the heating element, or the induction part controls the prompt element to be in an off state; In the dismounting state of the cover plate, the induction part is disconnected with the signal part, the induction part disconnects the heating element, or the induction part controls the prompt element to be in an on state, which is used to remind the user to disconnect the heating element.

6. The water heater of claim 4, wherein The upper end of the drain joint is connected with the inner tank, the lower end of the drain joint is connected with the drain valve, and the drain valve is used to externally connect a drain pipe group; The drain valve comprises a first valve body, a first valve core and a knob part, the upper end of the first valve body is connected with the drain joint, the first valve core is connected in the first valve body, and the knob part is connected with the first valve core and used to control the opening and closing of the drain valve.

7. The water heater of claim 6, wherein The drain pipe group comprises an adapter and a drain pipe connected to the adapter, a buckle part is formed on the outer wall of the first valve body, a clamping part is formed on the adapter, and in the external leakage state of the mounting opening, the clamping part is connected to the buckle part in a rotating clamping mode.

8. The water heater of claim 1, wherein The drain joint is formed with a mounting channel, and a first fixed mounting part is further arranged on the drain joint; a drain connection hole is further arranged on the side wall of the drain joint, and the drain connection hole communicates with the mounting channel; The drain assembly further comprises: a water treatment component configured to perform water quality treatment on water; A sleeve provided with a locking portion, the sleeve being arranged on the first fixed mounting portion and communicating with the mounting channel; The locking portion is provided with a locking matching portion and a second fixed mounting portion, the locking portion is arranged in the sleeve, the locking matching portion is connected with the locking portion, and the water treatment component is arranged on the second fixed mounting portion and extends to the outside of the sleeve.

9. The water heater of claim 8, wherein, The locking portion comprises a first tooth structure and a second tooth structure, the first tooth structure and the second tooth structure are oppositely arranged, and the first tooth structure and the second tooth structure are formed on the inner wall of the sleeve; The locking matching portion comprises a positioning rib arranged on the outer wall of the locking portion; The first tooth structure is configured to cooperate with the positioning rib so that the locking portion rotates in the sleeve to switch the relationship that the positioning rib selectively forms a locking cooperation with the second tooth structure; The second tooth structure is configured to cooperate with the positioning rib to block the locking portion from being separated from the sleeve.

10. The water heater of claim 9, wherein, The inner wall of the sleeve is provided with a plurality of locking portions arranged at intervals, the plurality of locking portions are distributed around the axis of the sleeve, and a sliding guide groove is formed between two adjacent locking portions, the sliding guide groove extends along the axis direction of the sleeve.

11. The water heater of claim 10, wherein, The first tooth structure is formed with a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface arranged at intervals, the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface are sequentially distributed around the axis of the sleeve; The second tooth structure is formed with a third inclined surface and a fourth inclined surface arranged at intervals, the third inclined surface and the fourth inclined surface are sequentially distributed around the axis of the sleeve; Wherein, one end of the first inclined surface is projected on the outside of the third inclined surface along the axis direction of the sleeve, the other end of the first inclined surface is projected on the third inclined surface along the axis direction of the sleeve; one end of the second inclined surface is projected on the third inclined surface along the axis direction of the sleeve, and the other end of the second inclined surface is projected on the fourth inclined surface along the axis direction of the sleeve.

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