Integrated electrodialysis filter element and water purifier

Abstract

The utility model discloses an integrated electrodialysis filter element and water purifier, the integrated electrodialysis filter element comprises: at least two sub-filter elements which are coaxially arranged and fixedly connected in a line shape, each sub-filter element is provided with a water inlet and a water outlet for respectively connecting raw water and discharging pure water during water production, or the secondary filter elements are used for respectively discharging waste water and connecting raw water during regeneration, and the water outlets of the secondary filter elements can be communicated with one another. According to the electrodialysis filter element, a plurality of sub-filter elements are integrated in one electrodialysis filter element, so that the water path structure is simplified, and the electrodialysis filter element has the characteristics of compact structure and small volume, and is convenient to widely apply in water purifiers. And when the sub-filter elements normally produce water for users to use, a small amount of pure water can be distributed for flushing the regenerated sub-filter elements, so that the integrated electrodialysis filter element not only can realize multi-stage waterway control and mutual regeneration, but also only uses a small amount of pure water produced by the sub-filter elements which normally produce water in the regeneration process, so that the influence on the water flow of the users is very small, and the service life of the users is prolonged. Therefore, the water use experience of the user can be ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of water treatment equipment, and in particular to an integrated electrodialysis filter element and water purifier. Background Technology

[0002] A water purifier is a water treatment device that performs deep filtration and purification of water according to usage requirements. It achieves desalination and regeneration processes through electrodialysis filter cartridges. Traditional water purifiers use two electrodialysis filter cartridges that regenerate each other. When either cartridge is regenerating, the pure water produced by the other cartridge is entirely used to regenerate the cartridge undergoing regeneration. Thus, when either cartridge is regenerating, the entire water purifier does not produce pure water, significantly reducing the time users can enjoy pure water and causing inconvenience in daily use.

[0003] To address the aforementioned issues, existing technology discloses a continuous-flow bipolar membrane electro-assisted deionization system, comprising multiple filter cartridges installed in a piping system. At least one filter cartridge, while producing water, distributes a portion of the purified water as regeneration feed water to other filter cartridges requiring regeneration. This allows for continuous water production during regeneration, improving user experience. However, because each filter cartridge is independently installed, the water circuit is complex and occupies considerable space, hindering its application in water purifiers. Utility Model Content

[0004] In order to overcome at least one of the defects mentioned above in the prior art, this utility model provides an integrated electrodialysis filter element and a water purifier, which integrates multiple sub-filter elements into one electrodialysis filter element to simplify the water circuit structure, making the electrodialysis filter element compact and small in size, which is convenient for widespread application in water purifiers. At the same time, it can realize multi-stage water circuit control and mutual regeneration, ensuring the user's water experience.

[0005] The technical solution adopted by this utility model to solve its problem is:

[0006] In a first aspect, this utility model provides an integrated electrodialysis filter element, comprising: at least two sub-filter elements coaxially arranged and fixedly connected in a straight line, each sub-filter element having an inlet and an outlet for connecting raw water and discharging pure water respectively during water production, or discharging wastewater and connecting raw water respectively during regeneration, and the outlets of each sub-filter element being interconnected.

[0007] In a preferred embodiment, in the first aspect of this utility model, the sub-filter element includes an outer cylinder, an electrodialysis membrane stack, and an electrode assembly. The outer cylinder has a receiving cavity inside, and the inlet and outlet are both located on the outer cylinder and communicate with the receiving cavity.

[0008] The electrodialysis membrane stack is coaxially arranged in the receiving cavity, and there is a gap between the electrodialysis membrane stack and the radial cavity wall of the receiving cavity to connect the water inlet. The electrodialysis membrane stack includes a central tube, a membrane assembly wound and sleeved on the central tube, and a sealing cap that seals and fixes the axial end faces of the membrane assembly. Several water permeable holes are opened on the central tube.

[0009] The electrode assembly includes an inner support inside the central tube, an outer support outside the membrane assembly, and electrode wires wound on the inner and outer supports. The inner support has an axially extending channel that connects to the outlet, and the inner support has a water outlet corresponding to the electrodialysis membrane stack that connects to the channel.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment, in the first aspect of the present invention, the outer cylinder includes a cylinder body with an internal receiving cavity and an opening at one axial end, an end cap detachably installed at the opening, an inlet and an outlet both located on the end cap, and an electrode wire passing through the end cap and exiting the outer cylinder.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, in the first aspect of this utility model, the surface of the electrode wire is provided with an insulating layer, and a sealing sleeve is provided at the end cap where the electrode wire passes through. The end cap has a through hole for the electrode wire to pass through, and the outer end face of the end cap is provided with a groove to fix the electrode wire.

[0012] A portion of the electrode wire is located within the receiving cavity, and its surface is insulated to prevent leakage, thus providing electrical protection. The electrode wire passes through a sealed through-hole to prevent water leakage. Generally, if the through-hole is perfectly fitted to the electrode wire, the wire can pass directly through. Preferably, a sealing sleeve is provided at the through-hole to allow the electrode wire to pass through, ensuring a tight seal at the wire's exit point. The sealing sleeve can be made of silicone, which has good elasticity and sealing performance and is inexpensive. The outer end face of the end cap has a groove for the electrode wire to pass through and connect to an external power source. The groove avoids obstructing the electrode wire, ensuring effective connection between the sub-filter elements. A retaining groove is provided within the groove, fitted to the electrode wire, to secure the wire and ensure the stability of the electrode wire connection, thereby guaranteeing the stability of the sub-filter element electrical connection.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, in the first aspect of this utility model, the inlet is provided at the highest point of the inner wall of the cylinder, the outlet is provided at the channel, and the inner support is provided at the end of the electrodialysis membrane stack away from the outlet.

[0014] This utility model features an integrated electrodialysis filter cartridge placed horizontally, meaning each sub-filter cartridge is horizontally connected. This facilitates a uniform flow of raw water through the flow channel, improving the water purification effect. The outlet is located in the center of the end cap, corresponding to the inner support, reducing the water flow path and allowing purified water to flow directly out of the outlet after passing through the channel of the inner support. During sub-filter cartridge regeneration, the raw water flows in reverse, and the electrode assembly is energized in reverse, causing ion desorption and gas generation. The inlet is positioned at the highest point of the inner wall of the cylinder, allowing gas to be discharged with the water flow, preventing it from stagnating inside the sub-filter cartridge and causing internal temperature rise, which would affect its service life. The inner support has a water inlet at the end corresponding to the electrodialysis membrane stack furthest from the outlet. Whether for electrodialysis water production or regeneration, the raw water flow path is the longest, resulting in the best ion adsorption and desorption effects, which is beneficial for improving water purification and regeneration efficiency.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, in the first aspect of this utility model, the inlet and outlet of each sub-filter element are located at one axial end of the integrated electrodialysis filter element, and the end of the integrated electrodialysis filter element is provided with the end cap of the sub-filter element at the end. The inlet of other sub-filter elements is installed on the end cap of the axial end of the integrated electrodialysis filter element through an extension pipe. The channel of other sub-filter elements is connected to the outlet of the end cap of the axial end of the integrated electrodialysis filter element through a coaxial outlet pipe, and the outlet pipe is sleeved in the inner support on its extension path.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, in the first aspect of this invention, each water inlet has an extension section extending horizontally outward perpendicular to the axial direction to be staggered. The staggered arrangement can avoid the water inlets overlapping and causing interference, and also facilitates the connection of the water inlet channels.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, in the first aspect of this utility model, the axial ends of the cover, the inner support, and the water outlet pipe are all detachably and fixedly connected to the corresponding end caps, and two adjacent sub-filter elements are detachably and fixedly connected to the cylinder through the corresponding end caps.

[0018] The end caps of two adjacent sub-filter elements can be connected to the cylinder by snap-fit, threaded connection, or screw connection, ensuring a tight seal to prevent leakage. The axial ends of the cap, inner support, and outlet pipe can all be connected to the corresponding end caps. Each axial end of the cap, inner support, and outlet pipe has a protruding limiting part, and the end cap has a matching limiting groove corresponding to each limiting part. The limiting connection of the limiting part and the limiting groove can be used to fix the cap, inner support, and outlet pipe, so that the electrodialysis membrane stack and electrode assembly can be stably installed inside the outer cylinder.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, in the first aspect of this invention, the integrated electrodialysis filter element further includes a housing, and each sub-filter element is installed inside the housing.

[0020] Secondly, this utility model provides a water purifier, including the aforementioned integrated electrodialysis filter element.

[0021] The integrated electrodialysis filter element and water purifier provided by this utility model have the following technical effects:

[0022] (1) At least two sub-filter elements are coaxially arranged and fixedly connected in a straight line so that at least two sub-filter elements are integrated into one electrodialysis filter element, thereby simplifying the water circuit structure and making the electrodialysis filter element compact and small in size, which is convenient for widespread application in water purifiers.

[0023] (2) Since the inlet and outlet of each sub-filter are connected to the raw water and discharged pure water respectively during water production, or discharged wastewater and connected to the raw water respectively during regeneration, and the outlets of each sub-filter can be connected, the water circuit of each sub-filter can be controlled independently. Once a sub-filter is regenerated, the other sub-filters can produce water normally for users, and a small amount of pure water can be allocated to rinse the regenerated sub-filter. In this way, the integrated electrodialysis filter not only realizes multi-stage water circuit control and mutual regeneration, but also uses only a small amount of pure water produced by the normally producing sub-filter during the regeneration process, which has little impact on the user's water flow rate, thus ensuring the user's water experience. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the integrated electrodialysis filter element of this utility model;

[0025] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the main structure of the integrated electrodialysis filter element of this utility model;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the disassembled structure between the sub-filter elements of the integrated electrodialysis filter element of this utility model;

[0027] Figure 4 This is an exploded view of the integrated electrodialysis filter element of this utility model;

[0028] Figure 5 This is an axial cross-sectional view of the integrated electrodialysis filter element of this utility model;

[0029] Figure 6 for Figure 5 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0030] Figure 7 for Figure 5 Enlarged view at point B in the middle;

[0031] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the end cap structure of this utility model.

[0032] The meanings of the reference numerals in the attached figures are as follows:

[0033] 10. First sub-filter element; 20. Second sub-filter element; 30. Outer shell; 1. Outer cylinder; 11. Receiving cavity; 12. Inlet; 121. Extension section; 13. Outlet; 14. Gap; 15. Cylinder body; 151. Opening; 16. End cap; 161. Through hole; 162. Slot; 17. Sealing sleeve; 18. Extension tube; 19. Outlet tube; 2. Electrodialysis membrane stack; 21. Central tube; 22. Membrane module; 23. Sealing cap; 3. Electrode assembly; 31. Inner support; 311. Channel; 312. Outlet; 32. Outer support. Detailed Implementation

[0034] To better understand and implement this invention, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", and "outer" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, 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 utility model.

[0036] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention.

[0037] See Figure 1-3 This utility model provides an integrated electrodialysis filter element, including: at least two sub-filter elements that are coaxially arranged and fixedly connected in a straight line. Each sub-filter element is provided with an inlet 12 and an outlet 13, so as to connect raw water and discharge pure water respectively during water production, or to discharge wastewater and connect raw water respectively during regeneration, and the outlets 13 of each sub-filter element can be connected to each other.

[0038] The sub-filter element can be set in two, three, four, etc. This utility model is described with two sub-filter elements as an example. The two sub-filter elements are the first sub-filter element 10 and the second sub-filter element 20. The first sub-filter element 10 and the second sub-filter element 20 are arranged adjacent to each other along the axial direction in a straight line, and the two are detachably fixedly connected. Thus, the first sub-filter element 10 and the second sub-filter element 20 are integrated into one electrodialysis filter element, which simplifies the water circuit structure and makes the electrodialysis filter element compact and small in size, which is convenient for widespread application in water purifiers.

[0039] Because the inlet 12 and outlet 13 of the first sub-filter element 10 and the second sub-filter element 20 are used to connect raw water and discharge pure water respectively during water production, or to discharge wastewater and connect raw water respectively during regeneration, and the outlet 13 of the first sub-filter element 10 and the outlet 13 of the second sub-filter element 20 are interconnected, the water circuits of the first sub-filter element 10 and the second sub-filter element 20 can be controlled independently. When only the first sub-filter element 10 is needed to produce water, the second sub-filter element 20 does not work. Raw water enters the first sub-filter element 10 through the inlet 12 to produce pure water, which then flows out through the outlet 13 for user use. When only the second sub-filter element 20 is needed to produce water, the first sub-filter element 10 does not work. Raw water enters the second sub-filter element 20 through the inlet 12 to produce pure water, which then flows out through the outlet 13 for user use. When a user's water consumption is high, the first sub-filter 10 and the second sub-filter 20 can be controlled to work simultaneously, so as to produce water using both sub-filters at the same time and ensure the user's required amount of pure water. Under normal circumstances, only one sub-filter is needed to meet the user's water needs.

[0040] Once a sub-filter cartridge is regenerated, the other sub-filter cartridges can continue to produce water for the user, and a small amount of pure water can be allocated to rinse the regenerated sub-filter cartridge. For example, during the regeneration of the first sub-filter cartridge 10, in the early stage of regeneration, raw water enters the first sub-filter cartridge 10 through the outlet 13, and reverse current is applied to desorb ions before it is discharged from the inlet 12. This process is repeated until ion desorption is complete. If the user needs water at this time, raw water can enter the second sub-filter cartridge 20 through the inlet 12 to produce pure water, which then flows out through the outlet 13 of the second sub-filter cartridge 20 for the user. At the end of the regeneration process, raw water stops supplying the first sub-filter element 10. Instead, it enters the second sub-filter element 20 through its inlet 12 to produce pure water. This pure water then flows out through the outlet 13 of the second sub-filter element 20 and back into the first sub-filter element 10 through its outlet 13 for rinsing. Finally, it exits through the inlet 12 of the first sub-filter element 10, thus completing the regeneration of the first sub-filter element 10. At this point, if the user needs water, the pure water produced by the second sub-filter element 20 is diverted from its outlet 13 for the user's use. The regeneration principle of the second sub-filter element 20 is the same and will not be repeated here. Generally, only one sub-filter element is in regeneration mode, ensuring that at least one sub-filter element can be used to produce pure water for the user. In this way, the integrated electrodialysis filter cartridge can not only realize multi-stage water circuit control, multi-stage circuit control and mutual regeneration, but also use only a small amount of pure water produced by the normal water production sub-filter cartridge during the regeneration process, which has little impact on the user's water flow rate, thus ensuring the user's water experience.

[0041] See Figure 1The integrated electrodialysis filter cartridge also includes a housing 30, within which each sub-filter cartridge is installed. One axial end of the housing 30 has an opening, and the interior of the housing 30 has an installation cavity communicating with the opening. This allows each sub-filter cartridge to be installed into the installation cavity through the opening, thus protecting each sub-filter cartridge using the housing 30. The inlet 12, outlet 13, and electrical connection components located within the installation cavity can directly pass through the side wall of the housing 30 or extend to the opening of the housing 30 for corresponding connections. For example, in this invention, the first sub-filter cartridge 10 and the second sub-filter cartridge 20 are sequentially installed into the installation cavity. The first sub-filter cartridge 10 is located further inside the installation cavity than the second sub-filter cartridge 20, and its inlet 12, outlet 13, and electrical connection components can directly pass through the side wall of the housing 30 or extend to the opening of the housing 30 for corresponding connections. One end of the second filter element 20 is located outside the housing 30, and its inlet 12, outlet 13, and electrical connection components can all be connected from this end, thus facilitating wiring.

[0042] Specifically, see Figure 4-5 The filter element includes an outer cylinder 1, an electrodialysis membrane stack 2, and an electrode assembly 3. The outer cylinder 1 has an internal receiving cavity 11. An inlet 12 and an outlet 13 are both located on the outer cylinder 1 and communicate with the receiving cavity 11. The electrodialysis membrane stack 2 is coaxially disposed within the receiving cavity 11, and a gap 14 communicating with the inlet 12 is provided between the electrodialysis membrane stack 2 and the radial wall of the receiving cavity 11. The electrodialysis membrane stack 2 includes a central tube 21, a membrane assembly 22 wound and sleeved on the central tube 21, and a dense... The sealing caps 23 on both ends of the membrane assembly 22 are sealed, and the central tube 21 has several water-permeable holes. The electrode assembly 3 includes an inner support 31 inside the central tube 21, an outer support 32 outside the membrane assembly 22, and electrode wires wound on the inner support 31 and the outer support 32. The inner support 31 has an axially extending channel 311 that communicates with the outlet 13, and the inner support 31 has a water outlet 312 corresponding to the electrodialysis membrane stack 2 that communicates with the channel 311.

[0043] The outer cylinder 1, the electrodialysis membrane stack 2, and the electrode assembly 3 are all coaxially arranged, with the electrodialysis membrane stack 2 and the electrode assembly 3 both located within the receiving cavity 11 of the outer cylinder 1. The inlet 12 and outlet 13 can be located at any position on the outer cylinder 1, as long as they can meet the requirements for water inflow and outflow. The membrane assembly 22 is composed of several membrane sheets wound together, with a flow channel formed between adjacent membrane sheets for water to flow through. The cap 23 is sealed and bonded to both ends of the membrane assembly 22 to ensure that water flows only through the flow channel, thereby ensuring the ion adsorption or desorption effect. The outer support 32 has several perforated holes for water to pass through. Electrode wires are wound around the inner support 31 and the outer support 32, and are electrically connected to an external power source to achieve electrodialysis or regeneration. During electrodialysis water production, the electrode wires on the outer support 32 are connected to the positive electrode, and the electrode wires on the inner support 31 are connected to the negative electrode to achieve ion adsorption by the electrodialysis membrane stack 2. During the regeneration of the electrodialysis membrane stack 2, the electrode wire on the outer support 32 is connected to the negative electrode, and the electrode wire on the inner support 31 is connected to the positive electrode, so as to achieve the desorption of ions from the electrodialysis membrane stack 2.

[0044] Thus, during water production, the electrode wire on the outer support 32 is connected to the positive electrode, and the electrode wire on the inner support 31 is connected to the negative electrode. Raw water enters the receiving chamber 11 through the inlet 12, passes through the gap 14 into the electrodialysis membrane stack 2, flows through the flow channels of the membrane module 22 to adsorb ions, and then enters the channel 311 through the water permeation holes on the central tube 21 and the water outlet 312 on the inner support 31. It then flows along the channel 311 and flows out from the outlet 13 for user use. During regeneration, the electrode wire on the outer support 32 is connected to the negative electrode, and the electrode wire on the inner support 31 is connected to the positive electrode. Raw water or pure water used for rinsing enters the channel 311 through the outlet 13, passes through the water outlet 312 and the water permeation holes on the central tube 21 into the membrane module 22, flows through the flow channels of the membrane module 22 to desorb ions, passes through the gap 14, and is discharged from the inlet 12 to complete regeneration.

[0045] It is worth noting that the outer cylinder 1 of the first sub-filter element 10 and the second sub-filter element 20, the electrodialysis membrane stack 2 and the electrode assembly 3 are all independent structures, and the two can be independent of each other to form an independent water system and electrical system.

[0046] See Figure 3-5 The outer cylinder 1 includes a cylindrical body 15 with an internal receiving cavity 11 and an opening 151 at one axial end, and an end cap 16 detachably installed at the opening. An inlet 12 and an outlet 13 are both located on the end cap 16, and the electrode wire passes through the end cap 16 and exits the outer cylinder 1. The outer cylinder 1 can be cylindrical, frustum-shaped, cuboid, etc.; this invention uses a cylindrical outer cylinder 1 as an example for explanation. The end caps 16 of the first sub-filter element 10 and the second sub-filter element 20 are both located on the open side near the outer casing 30 to facilitate water and electrical connections. Furthermore, the end caps 16 of each sub-filter element are detachably and fixedly connected to the cylindrical body 15, which can be a snap-fit ​​connection, a threaded connection, a screw connection, etc. The connection method is not specifically limited and can be set according to actual needs.

[0047] The electrode wire has an insulating layer on its surface, and a sealing sleeve 17 is fitted at the point where the electrode wire exits the end cap 16. The end cap 16 has a through hole 161 for the electrode wire to pass through, and a groove 162 is provided on the outer end face of the end cap 16 to fix the electrode wire. A portion of the electrode wire is located in the receiving cavity 11, and its surface is insulated to prevent leakage, thereby providing electrical protection. The electrode wire is sealed at the through hole 161 to prevent water leakage. Generally, if the through hole 161 is suitable for the electrode wire, the electrode wire can pass directly through the through hole 161. Of course, preferably, a sealing sleeve 17 is provided at the through hole 161 so that the electrode wire passes through the through hole 161 with the help of the sealing sleeve 17, thereby ensuring the sealing effect at the point where the electrode wire exits. The sealing sleeve 17 can be made of silicone, which has good elasticity and sealing effect, and is inexpensive. A groove is provided on the outer end face of the end cap 16 to allow the electrode wire to pass through and connect to an external power source. The groove can avoid the electrode wire, thereby ensuring the connection effect between the sub-filters. The groove is provided with a slot 162, which is adapted to the electrode wire to fix the electrode wire in the slot 162, thereby ensuring the stability of the electrode wire connection and the stability of the sub-filter element electrical connection.

[0048] It should be noted that, taking the two sub-filter elements of this utility model as an example, the electrode wire of the second sub-filter element 20 passes through the end cap 16 and is located at the opening of the outer casing 30, allowing it to be directly electrically connected to an external power source. The electrode wire of the first sub-filter element 10 passes through the end cap 16 and is located inside the mounting cavity of the outer casing 30. The electrode wire of the first sub-filter element 10 extends axially along the mounting cavity to pass through the opening before connecting to the external power source. In this way, the electrode wires of each sub-filter element are connected to the external power source through the opening, resulting in a simple circuit structure and convenient installation.

[0049] See Figure 2-6 The inlet 12 is set at the highest point of the inner wall of the cylinder 15, the outlet 13 is set at the channel 311, and the inner support 31 is provided with a water outlet 312 at the end of the electrodialysis membrane stack 2 away from the outlet 13.

[0050] The integrated electrodialysis filter cartridge of this invention is horizontally placed, meaning that each sub-filter cartridge is horizontally connected. This facilitates the uniform flow of raw water through the flow channel, thereby improving the water purification effect. The outlet 13 is located in the central area of ​​the end cap 16, corresponding to the inner support 31, reducing the water flow path so that purified water can flow directly out of the outlet 13 after passing through the channel 311 of the inner support 31. During sub-filter cartridge regeneration, the raw water flows in reverse, and the electrode assembly 3 is reverse-energized, causing ion desorption and gas generation. The inlet 12 is located at the highest point of the inner wall of the cylinder 15, facilitating the discharge of gas along with the water flow, preventing it from stagnating inside the sub-filter cartridge and causing internal temperature rise, which would affect its service life. The inner support 31 has a water inlet 312 at the end of the electrodialysis membrane stack 2 furthest from the outlet 13. Whether for electrodialysis water production or regeneration, the raw water flow path is the longest, resulting in the best ion adsorption and desorption effects, which is beneficial for improving water purification and regeneration efficiency.

[0051] Furthermore, the inlet 12 and outlet 13 of each sub-filter element are located at one axial end of the integrated electrodialysis filter element, and the axial end of the integrated electrodialysis filter element is provided with the end cap 16 of the sub-filter element at the end. The inlet 12 of other sub-filter elements is installed on the end cap 16 of the axial end of the integrated electrodialysis filter element through the extension pipe 18. The channel 311 of other sub-filter elements is connected to the outlet 13 on the end cap 16 of the axial end of the integrated electrodialysis filter element through the coaxial outlet pipe 19, and the outlet pipe 19 is sleeved in the inner support 31 on its extension path.

[0052] Combination Figure 8 The following description uses two sub-filter elements as an example. The inlet 12 of the second sub-filter element 20 is located at the highest point of the inner wall of the cylinder 15 of the second sub-filter element 20 and is situated on the end cap 16 of the second sub-filter element 20, allowing direct connection to external raw water. The inlet 12 of the first sub-filter element 10 is also located at the highest point of the inner wall of the cylinder 15 of the first sub-filter element 10 and is situated on the end cap 16 of the first sub-filter element 10. It extends to the end cap 16 of the second sub-filter element 20 via an extension tube 18 for sealing and connection to external raw water. The outlet 13 of the second sub-filter element 20 is located in the middle area of ​​the end cap 16 of the second sub-filter element 20, directly corresponding to the channel 311 of the second sub-filter element 20, allowing direct connection to external water-using equipment after water discharge. The channel 311 of the first sub-filter element 10 is positioned in the middle region of the end cap 16 of the first sub-filter element 10. The outlet 13 of the second sub-filter element 20 extends to the middle region of the end cap 16 of the second sub-filter element 20 via the outlet pipe 19 disposed within the channel 311. Thus, the inlet 12 and outlet 13 of both the first and second sub-filter elements 10 are located on the end cap 16 of the second sub-filter element 20, facilitating water circuit connection.

[0053] Combination Figure 5-7The channel 311 of the first sub-filter 10 is connected to the outlet pipe 19, but the channel 311 of the first sub-filter 10 is disconnected from the channel 311 of the second sub-filter 20. This ensures that the pure water from the first sub-filter 10 flows through the channel 311 and the outlet pipe 19 before exiting from the outlet 13 of the first sub-filter 10, and the pure water from the second sub-filter 20 flows through the channel 311 before exiting from the outlet 13 of the second sub-filter 20. This prevents interference between the water outputs of the first and second sub-filters, ensuring the independence of the water circuit. Similarly, the water circuits during regeneration are also independent, allowing for independent control of water production and regeneration.

[0054] The axial ends of the cap 23, the inner support 31, and the outlet pipe 19 are all detachably and fixedly connected to the corresponding end caps 16. Adjacent sub-filter elements are detachably and fixedly connected to the cylinder 15 via corresponding end caps 16. The end caps 16 of adjacent sub-filter elements can be snap-fitted, threaded, or screwed to the cylinder 15, ensuring a tight seal to prevent leakage. The axial ends of the cap 23, the inner support 31, and the outlet pipe 19 are all detachably connected to the corresponding end caps 16. Each of these elements has a protruding limiting part, and the end caps 16 have corresponding limiting grooves. This connection of the limiting parts and grooves allows for the fixing of the cap 23, the inner support 31, and the outlet pipe 19, ensuring the electrodialysis membrane stack 2 and the electrode assembly 3 can be stably installed inside the outer cylinder 1.

[0055] See Figure 2-4 and Figure 8 Each inlet 12 extends horizontally outward perpendicular to the axial direction with an extension section 121 to be staggered. The inlet 12 of the first sub-filter element 10 can extend horizontally through the extension section 121 and then be installed on the end cap 16 of the second sub-filter element 20 through the extension pipe 18. The inlet 12 of the second sub-filter element 20 is also horizontally extended through the extension section 121. The inlet 12 of the first sub-filter element 10 and the inlet 12 of the second sub-filter element 20 extend in opposite directions, so that the inlet 12 of the first sub-filter element 10 and the inlet 12 of the second sub-filter element 20 are staggered. This avoids the overlap and interference of the inlet 12 of the first sub-filter element 10 and the inlet 12 of the second sub-filter element 20, and also facilitates water circuit connection.

[0056] It is worth noting that the above descriptions of the structures and connections are all based on two sub-filter elements. For structures with three, four, or more sub-filter elements, the principle is the same as that of two sub-filter elements. Adaptive changes can be made accordingly, and no further discussion will be given in this utility model.

[0057] In addition, this utility model also provides a water purifier, including: the aforementioned integrated electrodialysis filter element. The electrodialysis filter element in the water purifier adopts an integrated structural design, which features a simple water circuit structure, a compact electrodialysis filter element structure, and a small size. Therefore, when installed in the water purifier, the electrodialysis filter element occupies less space, which helps to reduce the size of the water purifier, thereby facilitating the installation and widespread use of the water purifier.

[0058] Furthermore, due to the integrated structure of the electrodialysis filter cartridge, which has independent water and electrical systems and can regenerate with each other, it can produce water with one sub-filter cartridge, or even two or more sub-filter cartridges simultaneously. This allows for the allocation of the appropriate number of sub-filter cartridges based on the user's water consumption, meeting their needs. Simultaneously, while any sub-filter cartridge is regenerating, the other sub-filter cartridges continue to produce water for the user, and a small amount of pure water is allocated for rinsing the regenerated cartridge. In this way, the water purifier can provide an uninterrupted supply of pure water, requiring only a small amount of pure water for rinsing during regeneration, avoiding significant waste of pure water, and ensuring a consistent water flow for the user, resulting in a superior water usage experience.

[0059] The technical means disclosed in this utility model are not limited to those disclosed in the above embodiments, but also include technical solutions composed of any combination of the above technical features. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications without departing from the principle of this utility model, and these improvements and modifications are also considered within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. An integrated electrodialysis filter element, characterized in that, include: At least two sub-filter elements are coaxially arranged and fixedly connected in a straight line. Each sub-filter element is provided with an inlet and an outlet for connecting raw water and discharging pure water respectively during water production, or for discharging wastewater and connecting raw water respectively during regeneration. The outlets of each sub-filter element can be connected to each other.

2. The integrated electrodialysis filter element according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sub-filter element includes an outer cylinder, an electrodialysis membrane stack, and an electrode assembly. The outer cylinder has an internal cavity, and the inlet and outlet are both located on the outer cylinder and connected to the cavity. The electrodialysis membrane stack is coaxially arranged in the receiving cavity, and a gap communicating with the water inlet is provided between the electrodialysis membrane stack and the radial cavity wall of the receiving cavity. The electrodialysis membrane stack includes a central tube, a membrane assembly wound and sleeved on the central tube, and a sealing cap that seals and fixes the axial end faces of the membrane assembly. Several water permeable holes are opened on the central tube. The electrode assembly includes an inner support inside the central tube, an outer support outside the membrane assembly, and electrode wires wound on the inner support and the outer support. The inner support has an axially extending channel that communicates with the outlet, and the inner support has a water outlet corresponding to the electrodialysis membrane stack that communicates with the channel.

3. The integrated electrodialysis filter element according to claim 2, characterized in that: The outer cylinder includes a cylinder body with the receiving cavity inside and an opening at one axial end, an end cap detachably installed at the opening, the water inlet and the water outlet are both located on the end cap, and the electrode wire passes through the end cap and exits the outer cylinder.

4. The integrated electrodialysis filter element according to claim 3, characterized in that: The electrode wire has an insulating layer on its surface, and a sealing sleeve is fitted where the electrode wire passes through the end cap. The end cap has a through hole for the electrode wire to pass through, and a groove is provided on the outer end face of the end cap to fix the electrode wire.

5. The integrated electrodialysis filter element according to claim 3, characterized in that: The inlet is located at the highest point of the inner wall of the cylinder, the outlet is located at the channel, and the inner support is provided with the water passage at the end of the electrodialysis membrane stack away from the outlet.

6. The integrated electrodialysis filter element according to claim 5, characterized in that: The inlet and outlet of each of the sub-filter elements are located at one axial end of the integrated electrodialysis filter element, and the axial end of the integrated electrodialysis filter element is provided with the end cap of the sub-filter element at the end. The inlets of the other sub-filter elements are installed on the end cap of the axial end of the integrated electrodialysis filter element through extension pipes. The channels of the other sub-filter elements are connected to the outlets on the end caps of the axial end of the integrated electrodialysis filter element through coaxial outlet pipes, and the outlet pipes are sleeved in the inner support along their extension path.

7. The integrated electrodialysis filter element according to claim 6, characterized in that: Each of the aforementioned inlets has an extension section that extends horizontally outward perpendicular to the axial direction and is staggered.

8. The integrated electrodialysis filter element according to claim 6, characterized in that: The axial ends of the cover, the inner support, and the water outlet pipe are all detachably and fixedly connected to the corresponding end caps. The two adjacent sub-filter elements are detachably and fixedly connected to the cylinder through the corresponding end caps.

9. The integrated electrodialysis filter element according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that: The integrated electrodialysis filter element also includes a housing, and each of the sub-filter elements is installed inside the housing.

10. A water purifier, characterized in that, include: The integrated electrodialysis filter element according to any one of claims 1-9.

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