Water pipe assemblies for water heaters and water heaters

Abstract

This specification relates to the field of water heater technology, specifically disclosing a water pipe assembly for a water heater and a water heater. The water pipe assembly includes an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe, with at least a portion of the outlet pipe integrated inside the inlet pipe, or at least a portion of the inlet pipe integrated inside the outlet pipe. The water pipe assembly also includes a water-passing device for holding functional materials, integrated with the inlet pipe and / or the outlet pipe. Water flowing into the water pipe assembly can enter the water heater through the water-passing device and the inlet pipe, and water in the water heater can flow out through the outlet pipe; alternatively, water flowing into the water pipe assembly can flow into the water heater through the inlet pipe, and water in the water heater can flow out through the water-passing device and the outlet pipe. The aforementioned water pipe assembly can enhance structural integration while functionalizing the water flowing into or out of the water heater.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This manual relates to the field of water heater technology, and in particular to a water pipe assembly for a water heater and a water heater. Background Technology

[0002] The inner tank of the electric water heater is connected to a water pipe assembly, which includes an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe. Cold water enters the inner tank through the inlet pipe, while hot water in the inner tank is output from the outlet pipe.

[0003] Currently, with changing user needs, electric water heaters require functional processing of inlet and outlet water, but the addition of functional processing devices leads to a reduction in the structural integration of the water heater.

[0004] There is currently no effective solution to the above problems. Utility Model Content

[0005] This specification provides a water pipe assembly and a water heater for use in water heaters, which enhances structural integration while functionalizing the water flowing into or out of the water heater.

[0006] This specification provides a water pipe assembly, which includes an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe.

[0007] At least a portion of the water outlet pipe is integrated inside the water inlet pipe, or at least a portion of the water inlet pipe is integrated inside the water outlet pipe;

[0008] The water pipe assembly also includes a water-passing device for holding functional materials.

[0009] The water-passing device is integrated with the water inlet pipe and / or the water outlet pipe;

[0010] Water flowing into the water pipe assembly can enter the water heater through the water-passing device and the water inlet pipe, and water in the water heater can flow out through the water outlet pipe. Alternatively, water flowing into the water pipe assembly can flow into the water heater through the water inlet pipe, and water in the water heater can flow out through the water-passing device and the water outlet pipe.

[0011] In some embodiments, the water-passing device is integrated between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe; the water-passing device includes an inner wall and an outer wall spaced at a predetermined distance, at least a portion of the outlet pipe is located inside the inlet pipe, and the outlet pipe, the inner wall, the outer wall, and the inlet pipe are arranged radially from the inside out.

[0012] or,

[0013] The water-passing device includes an inner wall and an outer wall spaced at a predetermined distance. The wall of the water inlet pipe is the outer wall. At least part of the water outlet pipe is located inside the water inlet pipe. The water outlet pipe, the inner wall, and the water inlet pipe are arranged radially from the inside to the outside.

[0014] In some embodiments, the water-passing device further includes an upper sealing portion, which is connected to the upper part of the inner wall and the upper part of the outer wall, and is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall and the outer wall from above;

[0015] The upper sealing part is provided with a first through hole, and the water outlet pipe passes through the first through hole.

[0016] In some embodiments, there is a predetermined interval between the first through hole of the upper sealing part and the water outlet pipe, and a water blocking part is provided at the upper part of the water inlet pipe. The water blocking part is connected to the water outlet pipe to prevent the water flowing into the water pipe assembly from continuing to flow upward.

[0017] or,

[0018] The first through hole of the upper sealing part is connected to the water outlet pipe and is used to block the water flowing into the water pipe assembly so that the water flowing into the water pipe assembly flows to the water passing device;

[0019] or,

[0020] The upper part of the inner wall and / or the outer wall is provided with a water-blocking part, which is connected to the water outlet pipe and is used to block the water flowing into the water pipe assembly so that the water flowing into the water pipe assembly flows into the water-passing device.

[0021] In some embodiments, the water-passing device further includes a lower sealing portion for sealing the functional material located between the inner wall and the outer wall from below. The lower sealing portion is connected to the lower part of the outer wall and is provided with a second through hole. The inner wall passes through the second through hole, and the second through hole is either gap-sealed or contact-sealed with the inner wall.

[0022] In some embodiments, the water-passing device further includes a lower sealing part, which is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall and the outer wall from below. The lower sealing part is connected to the lower part of the inner wall and the lower part of the outer wall. The lower sealing part is provided with a second through hole, through which the water outlet pipe passes.

[0023] In some embodiments, the water-passing device includes an inner wall and an outer wall, at least a portion of the water outlet pipe is located inside the water inlet pipe, the water outlet pipe, the inner wall, the outer wall, and the water inlet pipe are arranged radially from the inside to the outside, and the water-passing device is detachably connected to the water inlet pipe and / or the water outlet pipe so as to be detachably removed from the gap between the water outlet pipe and the water inlet pipe.

[0024] In some embodiments, the water-passing device includes an inner wall and an outer wall, at least a portion of the water outlet pipe is located inside the water inlet pipe, the water outlet pipe, the inner wall, the outer wall, and the water inlet pipe are arranged radially from the inside to the outside, and the water inlet pipe is provided with a limiting structure inward, the limiting structure being used to radially limit the outer wall.

[0025] In some embodiments, the water pipe assembly further includes a support member disposed below the water-passing device to support the lower part of the water-passing device, the support member being detachably and sealingly connected to the water inlet pipe or being non-detachably and sealingly connected to it.

[0026] In some embodiments, the lower part of the water-passing device is provided with a lower sealing part, which is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall and the outer wall from below, and the support member is used to support the lower sealing part;

[0027] The lower sealing part is provided with a second through hole, and the water outlet pipe or the inner wall passes through the second through hole.

[0028] In some embodiments, the support further includes a radially extending first limiting portion located outside the water outlet pipe or the inner wall for limiting the water outlet pipe or the inner wall.

[0029] In some embodiments, the inlet pipe further includes a stop member disposed above the water-passing device to block the upper part of the water-passing device.

[0030] In some embodiments, the outer edge of the stop member is sealed to the peripheral wall of the inlet pipe, and the inner edge of the stop member is sealed to the peripheral wall of the outlet pipe.

[0031] In some embodiments, the water-passing device further includes an upper sealing portion, which is connected to the upper part of the inner wall and the upper part of the outer wall, and is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall and the outer wall from above;

[0032] The upper sealing part is provided with a first through hole, and the water outlet pipe passes through the first through hole;

[0033] The upper part of the upper sealing part is provided with a second limiting part, which is used to abut against the stop member.

[0034] In some embodiments, there is a predetermined interval between the first through hole of the upper sealing part and the water outlet pipe; when the second limiting part is located in a position abutting against the stop member, there is a water supply channel between the upper sealing part and the stop member, or the second limiting part is provided with a water supply channel, or the stop member is provided with a water supply channel.

[0035] In some embodiments, the water-passing device is detachably or non-detachably integrated between the water inlet pipe and the water outlet pipe, or the water-passing device is detachably or non-detachably integrated on the outside or inside of the water inlet pipe, or the water-passing device is detachably or non-detachably integrated on the outside or inside of the water outlet pipe.

[0036] The functional materials include scale inhibitors and / or bactericidal and / or purifying materials.

[0037] In some embodiments, the inner wall comprises a first wire mesh, and the outer wall comprises a second wire mesh;

[0038] or,

[0039] The inner wall includes a first wire mesh and a non-porous inner wall connected together, the non-porous inner wall being at least partially located below the first wire mesh.

[0040] In some embodiments, the water-passing device further includes a lower sealing part, which is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall and the outer wall from below. The lower sealing part is connected to the lower part of the outer wall. The lower sealing part is provided with a second through hole, and the inner wall passes through the second through hole. The second through hole is gap-sealed or contact-sealed with the inner wall.

[0041] The inner wall includes a perforated inner wall and a non-perforated inner wall connected together, the non-perforated inner wall being at least partially located below the perforated inner wall, and the non-perforated inner wall having a second through hole.

[0042] In some embodiments, there is a predetermined interval between the first through hole of the upper sealing part and the water outlet pipe, and a water blocking part is provided at the upper part of the water inlet pipe. The water blocking part is connected to the water outlet pipe to prevent the water flowing into the water pipe assembly from continuing to flow upward.

[0043] There is a bypass channel between the water-blocking part and the upper sealing part, which allows water to enter the water heater without passing through the water-passing device.

[0044] This specification also provides a water heater, including: the water pipe assembly described in any of the above embodiments.

[0045] In some embodiments, the water heater further includes an inner tank.

[0046] The inner tank is used to store water, and an opening is provided on the inner tank for the water pipe assembly to pass through.

[0047] In some embodiments, the water heater further includes a mixing valve.

[0048] The mixing valve includes a valve body and a valve core;

[0049] The valve body includes a cold water inlet, a cold water chamber, a first cold water connection, a second cold water connection, a cold water outlet, a hot water inlet, and a mixing water outlet; the cold water inlet is connected to the cold water chamber; the hot water inlet and the cold water outlet are connected to the inner tank of the water heater through a port on the inner tank; the valve core is disposed in the cold water chamber; the valve core is used to divert water entering the cold water chamber to the first cold water connection and the second cold water connection; the first cold water connection is used to connect the cold water chamber and the cold water outlet, and the cold water outlet is used for... The system allows cold water to flow into the inner tank of the water heater through one of the openings on the inner tank; the second cold water connecting part connects the cold water cavity with the mixing water outlet; the hot water inlet part allows hot water in the inner tank of the water heater to flow into the mixing water outlet through one of the openings on the inner tank; the inlet of the mixing water outlet is connected to the second cold water connecting part and the hot water inlet part; the outlet of the mixing water outlet is used to output the mixed water; at least a portion of the hot water inlet part is located inside the cold water outlet part, or at least a portion of the cold water outlet part is located inside the hot water inlet part.

[0050] At least a portion of the water pipe assembly is disposed in the inner tank. The water pipe assembly is used to input cold water from the cold water outlet into the inner tank and to input hot water from the inner tank into the hot water inlet.

[0051] In some embodiments, the cold water cavity is provided with a cold water inlet, a first cold water outlet, and a second cold water outlet; the cold water inlet is connected to the cold water inlet portion, the first cold water outlet is connected to the first cold water connecting portion, and the second cold water outlet is connected to the second cold water connecting portion.

[0052] The first cold water outlet, the second cold water outlet, and the cold water inlet are located on the same surface of the cold water cavity;

[0053] The same surface refers to the surface of the cold water cavity facing the cold water outlet and the mixed water outlet.

[0054] In some embodiments, the valve core includes a movable valve plate and a fixed valve plate. The fixed valve plate is provided with a first cold water outlet and a second cold water outlet. The first cold water outlet is used to connect with the first cold water outlet, and the second cold water outlet is used to connect with the second cold water outlet. The movable valve plate is used to control the connection relationship between the cold water inlet and the first cold water outlet and the second cold water outlet.

[0055] In some embodiments, the first cold water outlet and the second cold water outlet at least partially overlap in the lateral direction, or the first cold water outlet and the second cold water outlet do not overlap in the lateral direction but the lateral distance is less than a first preset distance.

[0056] And / or,

[0057] The first cold water connection and the second cold water connection have the same extension direction.

[0058] And / or,

[0059] The first cold water connection part includes a first cold water connection pipe, and the second cold water connection part includes a second cold water connection pipe. The first cold water connection pipe and the second cold water connection pipe are arranged in parallel.

[0060] In some embodiments, the first cold water connection portion is higher than the second cold water connection portion; the first cold water connection portion extends from the cold water cavity toward the cold water outlet portion; the second cold water connection portion extends from the cold water cavity toward the mixed water outlet portion;

[0061] The cold water flow channels in the cold water outlet section and the cold water flow channels in the second cold water connecting section do not intersect.

[0062] In some embodiments, the cold water chamber and the cold water outlet and / or the hot water inlet are separated by a preset distance in the horizontal and / or vertical directions to be independently arranged;

[0063] The first cold water connection part has a first cold water connection pipe of a preset length, which is used to connect the cold water cavity and the cold water outlet; the second cold water connection part has a second cold water connection pipe of a preset length, which is used to connect the cold water cavity and the mixed water outlet.

[0064] The technical solution in this specification has the following significant advantages:

[0065] This specification provides a water pipe assembly for a water heater, comprising an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe. The water pipe assembly also includes a water-passing device. The water-passing device is used to hold functional materials for functionalizing the water flowing through it (e.g., scale inhibition, descaling, sterilization, purification, etc.). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the outlet pipe is integrated inside the inlet pipe. By placing at least a portion of the outlet pipe inside the inlet pipe, the outlet and inlet pipes are relatively compactly arranged, making the structure of the water pipe assembly more integrated and reducing the risk of leakage. The water-passing device is integrated with the inlet and / or outlet pipes. Water flowing into the water pipe assembly can enter the water heater through the water-passing device and the inlet pipe, and water in the water heater can flow out through the outlet pipe. Since the water flowing into the water pipe assembly can enter the water heater through the water-passing device and the inlet pipe, it can be functionalized before flowing into the water heater, for example, by inhibiting or descaling. By integrating the water-passing device with the inlet and / or outlet pipes, the water pipe assembly structure is integrated, which not only enhances the scale inhibition or removal of the water flowing into the water heater, but also ensures that the water flowing into the water heater contains low levels of insoluble inorganic salts or impurities. This reduces scale buildup on the inner wall of the water heater's inner tank and heating elements. Since the water in the water heater can flow into the outlet pipe, scale buildup in the outlet pipe is also reduced. Furthermore, the water flowing from the outlet pipe into the mixing valve or water-using device contains low levels of insoluble inorganic salts, thus reducing scale buildup in the mixing valve or water-using device. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the inlet pipe is integrated inside the outlet pipe. By placing at least a portion of the inlet pipe inside the outlet pipe, the inlet and outlet pipes are relatively compactly arranged, making the water pipe assembly structure more integrated and reducing the risk of leakage. A water-passing device is integrated with the inlet and / or outlet pipes, allowing water flowing into the water pipe assembly to enter the water heater through the inlet pipe, and water from the water heater to flow out through the water-passing device and outlet pipe. Since water from the water heater can flow out through the water-passing device and outlet pipe, the water flowing out of the water heater can be functionally treated. For example, by integrating the water-passing device with the inlet and / or outlet pipes, the water can be sterilized before flowing out of the water heater, enhancing the structural integration of the water pipe assembly and better protecting the health of the water user.

[0066] Specific embodiments of the present invention are disclosed in detail with reference to the following description and accompanying drawings, indicating how the principles of the present invention can be adopted. It should be understood that the embodiments of the present invention are not limited in scope. Features described and / or shown for one embodiment may be used in the same or similar manner in one or more other embodiments, combined with features in other embodiments, or substituted for features in other embodiments.

[0067] It should be emphasized that the term "comprising / including" as used herein refers to the presence of a feature, part, or component, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, parts, or components. Attached Figure Description

[0068] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this invention in any way. Furthermore, the shapes and proportions of the components in the drawings are merely schematic to aid in understanding the invention and do not specifically limit the shapes and proportions of the components. Those skilled in the art, under the guidance of this invention, can select various possible shapes and proportions to implement this invention according to specific circumstances. In the drawings:

[0069] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a water pipe assembly according to one embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0070] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a water pipe assembly according to one embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0071] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a water pipe assembly according to one embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0072] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a water pipe assembly according to one embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0073] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a water pipe assembly according to one embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0074] Figure 6 A partial structural diagram of the water-passing device, including the inner wall, is shown in one embodiment of this specification;

[0075] Figure 7 A partial structural diagram of the water-passing device, including the inner wall, is shown in one embodiment of this specification;

[0076] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of a water heater according to one embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0077] Figure 9 A partial cross-sectional view of a water heater according to one embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0078] Figure 10 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of a mixing valve according to one embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0079] Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of a mixing valve according to one embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0080] Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of a mixing valve according to one embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0081] Figure 13 A partial cross-sectional view showing the connection between the mixing valve and the tank in one embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0082] Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the valve core structure in one embodiment of this specification is shown;

[0083] Figure 15 This specification shows a schematic diagram of the structure of the moving valve plate and the stationary valve plate in a valve core according to one embodiment;

[0084] Figure 16 A schematic diagram of the flow channel inside the mixing valve in one embodiment of this specification is shown.

[0085] The reference numerals in the above figures are as follows:

[0086] 10. Water heater;

[0087] 100. Mixing valve; 101. Valve body; 102. Valve core; 110. Cold water chamber; 111. First cold water connection; 112. Second cold water connection; 113. Cold water inlet; 114. Cold water outlet; 115. Hot water inlet; 116. Mixing water outlet; 1101. First cold water outlet; 1102. Second cold water outlet; 121. Moving valve plate; 122. Fixed valve plate; 1221. First cold water outlet; 1222. Second cold water outlet; 1223. Cold water inlet;

[0088] 200. Inner liner; 201. One opening; 202. Upper temperature probe; 203. Lower temperature probe; 204. Heating rod;

[0089] 300. Water pipe assembly; 301. Inlet pipe; 302. Outlet pipe; 303. Water passage device; 304. Water blocking part; 305. Support member; 331. Inner wall; 332. Outer wall; 333. Upper sealing part; 3331. First through hole; 334. Lower sealing part; 3341. Second through hole; 311. Limiting structure; 351. First limiting part; 312. Stop member; 3332. Second limiting part; 3311. Inner wall with holes; 3312. Inner wall without holes. Detailed Implementation

[0090] The principles and spirit of this specification will now be described with reference to several exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are given merely to enable those skilled in the art to better understand and implement this specification, and are not intended to limit the scope of this specification in any way. Rather, these embodiments are provided to make this disclosure more thorough and complete, and to fully convey the scope of this disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0091] The details of this utility model can be more clearly understood by referring to the accompanying drawings and the description of specific embodiments. However, the specific embodiments of this utility model described herein are only for explaining the purpose of this utility model and should not be construed as limiting this utility model in any way. Under the teachings of this utility model, those skilled in the art can conceive of any possible modifications based on this utility model, and these should all be considered to fall within the scope of this utility model. It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is referred to as being "connected" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be interpreted broadly, for example, it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection, or it can be a connection within two elements, which can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only embodiments.

[0092] 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 specification belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this specification. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0093] This specification provides an example of a water pipe assembly for a water heater. Please refer to... Figures 1 to 5 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a water pipe assembly for a water heater according to an embodiment of this specification. Figures 1 to 4 The left side shows a complete cross-sectional view of the water pipe assembly, the upper right side shows a magnified view of the area near the upper sealing section, and the lower right side shows a magnified view of the area near the lower sealing section. Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the water pipe assembly 300 may include an inlet pipe 301 and an outlet pipe 302.

[0094] In this embodiment, "in" and "out" in inlet pipe 301 and outlet pipe 302 are relative to the inner tank of the water heater. The pipe used for water to flow out of the inner tank is outlet pipe 302, and the pipe used for water to flow into the inner tank is inlet pipe 301.

[0095] like Figures 1 to 5As shown, the water pipe assembly 300 may further include a water-passing device 303 for holding functional materials. The functional materials can functionalize the water flowing through the water-passing device 303. The functionalization treatment may include at least one of the following: scale inhibition, scale removal, sterilization, and purification. In some embodiments of this specification, the functional materials may include scale-inhibiting materials and / or sterilizing materials and / or purifying materials. Scale-inhibiting materials can inhibit or remove scale from the water. Sterilizing materials can sterilize the water. Purifying materials can purify the water. The functional materials in the embodiments of this specification are not limited thereto.

[0096] The water-passing device 303 can be integrated with the inlet pipe 301 and / or the outlet pipe 302. In some embodiments, the water-passing device 303 can be integrated between the inlet pipe 301 and the outlet pipe 302. In other embodiments, the water-passing device 303 can be integrated with the inlet pipe 301, for example, integrated inside or outside the inlet pipe 301. In still other embodiments, the water-passing device 303 can be integrated with the outlet pipe 302, for example, integrated inside or outside the outlet pipe 302. By configuring the water-passing device 303 to be integrated with the inlet pipe 301 and / or the outlet pipe 302, the structural integration of the water pipe assembly 300 is enhanced, and the water flowing into the water heater can be functionalized.

[0097] In the above embodiments, "integrated setup" refers to the water-passing device 303 being assembled with the water inlet pipe 301 and / or the water outlet pipe 302 in a detachable or non-detachable manner to form a water pipe assembly 300, thereby improving the structural integration of the water pipe assembly 300.

[0098] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, at least a portion of the water outlet pipe 302 is integrated inside the water inlet pipe 301, and the annular gap between the two is the installation area of ​​the water-passing device 303. By placing at least a portion of the water outlet pipe 302 inside the water inlet pipe 301, the water outlet pipe 302 and the water inlet pipe 301 are relatively compactly arranged, making the structure of the water pipe assembly 300 more integrated and reducing the risk of leakage.

[0099] A water-passing device 303 is integrated between the inlet pipe 301 and the outlet pipe 302. Water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 can enter the water heater through the water-passing device 303 and the inlet pipe 301. Specifically, the water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 first flows into the channel between the outlet pipe 302 wall and the water-passing device 303, then flows into the water-passing device 303, and then flows from the water-passing device 303 to the water heater. Water in the water heater can flow out through the outlet pipe 302. Since the water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 can enter the water heater through the water-passing device 303 and the inlet pipe 301, it can be functionally treated before flowing into the water heater (e.g., one or more treatments such as scale inhibition, descaling, sterilization, and purification). Therefore, by installing a water-passing device 303 between the inlet pipe 301 and the outlet pipe 302, the water pipe assembly 300, while structurally integrated, can functionally treat the water flowing into the water heater. For example, to inhibit or remove scale, it can ensure that the water flowing into the water heater contains low levels of insoluble inorganic salts or impurities, thereby reducing scale buildup on the inner wall of the water heater and components such as the heating element. Since the water in the water heater can flow into the outlet pipe 302, it can also reduce scale buildup on the wall of the outlet pipe 302. Furthermore, it can ensure that the water flowing from the outlet pipe 302 into the mixing valve or water-using device contains low levels of insoluble inorganic salts, thereby reducing scale buildup in the mixing valve or water-using device. For example, to sterilize or purify, the water-passing device can sterilize or purify the water flowing into the water heater, ensuring the user's water health.

[0100] In some embodiments of this specification, at least part of the outlet pipe 302 is located inside the inlet pipe 301, and the water-passing device 303 is integrated with the inlet pipe 301. For example, the water-passing device 303 can be integrated on the outside of the inlet pipe 301. Water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 first flows through the inlet pipe 301, and then flows to the water-passing device 303 on the outside of the inlet pipe 301. The water-passing device 303 performs functional treatment on the water flowing in, and the functionalized water then flows into the water heater. That is, the water can be functionalized before flowing into the water heater.

[0101] In some embodiments of this specification, at least a portion of the outlet pipe 302 is located inside the inlet pipe 301, and the water-passing device 303 is integrated with the outlet pipe 302. For example, the water-passing device 303 can be integrated inside the outlet pipe 302. Water from the water heater can first flow into the outlet pipe 302 and the water-passing device 303 inside the outlet pipe 302. The water-passing device 303 can perform functional treatment on the water flowing in, and the functionalized water then flows into the water heater. That is, the water can be functionalized before flowing out of the water heater.

[0102] like Figure 5As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, at least a portion of the inlet pipe 301 is integrated inside the outlet pipe 302, and the annular gap between the two is the installation area of ​​the water-passing device 303. By placing at least a portion of the inlet pipe 301 inside the outlet pipe 302, the outlet pipe 302 and the inlet pipe 301 are arranged relatively compactly, making the structure of the water pipe assembly 300 more integrated and reducing the risk of leakage.

[0103] like Figure 5 As shown, the water-passing device 303 is integrated between the inlet pipe 301 and the outlet pipe 302. Water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 can flow into the water heater through the inlet pipe 301, and water in the water heater can flow out through the water-passing device 303 and the outlet pipe 302. Specifically, the water flowing from the water heater into the water pipe assembly 300 first flows into the flow channel between the wall of the outlet pipe 302 and the water-passing device 303, then flows into the water-passing device 303, and then from the water-passing device 303 into the flow channel between the wall of the water-passing device 303 and the wall of the inlet pipe 301, and flows to the thermostatic valve or water-using device connected to the water pipe assembly 300, and then flows out of the water heater. Since the water in the water heater can flow out through the water-passing device 303 and the outlet pipe 302, the water flowing out of the water heater can be functionalized (e.g., scale inhibition, descaling, purification and / or sterilization). Taking scale inhibition or removal as an example, by installing a water-passing device 303 between the inlet pipe 301 and the outlet pipe 302, the structural integration of the water pipe assembly 300 is enhanced, and scale inhibition or removal is performed on the water before it flows out of the water heater. This reduces scale buildup on the wall of the outlet pipe 302 and ensures that the content of insoluble inorganic salts in the water flowing from the outlet pipe 302 into the mixing valve or water-using device is low, thereby reducing scale buildup in the mixing valve or water-using device. Taking sterilization as an example, the enhanced structural integration of the water pipe assembly 300 allows for sterilization of the water before it flows out of the water heater, further ensuring the health of the user's water supply.

[0104] like Figure 5 As shown, with at least a portion of the inlet pipe 301 located inside the outlet pipe 302, the water pipe assembly 300 can be arranged horizontally as a whole. The inlet pipe 301 may include two parts: a horizontal pipe and a downwardly sloping pipe, to deliver external cold water to the lower part of the water heater. After the external water flows into the inlet pipe 301 of the water pipe assembly 300, it first flows horizontally and then flows downwards at an angle to the lower part of the water heater. The cold water flowing into the water heater forces the hot water in the upper part of the water heater through the inlet opening on the pipe wall of the outlet pipe 302 into the flow channel between the outlet pipe 302 and the water-passing device 303, and then flows into the water-passing device 303. After that, the water flows out from the water-passing device 303 and flows into the flow channel between the water-passing device 303 and the inlet pipe 301, and then flows out of the water heater.

[0105] In some embodiments of this specification, at least a portion of the inlet pipe 301 is located inside the outlet pipe 302, and the water-passing device 303 is integrated with the inlet pipe 301. For example, the water-passing device 303 can be integrated inside the inlet pipe 301. Water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 flows into the inlet pipe 301 and the water-passing device 303. The water-passing device 303 can perform functional treatment on the water flowing in, and the functionalized water then flows into the water heater. That is, the water can be functionalized before flowing into the water heater.

[0106] In some embodiments of this specification, at least a portion of the inlet pipe 301 is located inside the outlet pipe 302, and the water-passing device 303 is integrated with the outlet pipe 302. For example, the water-passing device 303 can be integrated outside the outlet pipe 302. Water from the water heater can first flow into the water-passing device 303, where it undergoes functional treatment. The functionalized water then flows into the outlet pipe 302 and finally out of the water heater. That is, the water can be functionalized before it flows out of the water heater.

[0107] In some embodiments of this specification, the functional materials may include scale-inhibiting materials and / or bactericidal materials and / or purifying materials. The water-passing device 303 is detachably or non-detachably integrated between the inlet pipe 301 and the outlet pipe 302. In some embodiments of this specification, the water-passing device 303 is detachably or non-detachably integrated on the outside or inside of the inlet pipe 301. In some embodiments of this specification, the water-passing device 303 is detachably or non-detachably integrated on the outside or inside of the outlet pipe 302.

[0108] With the water-passing device 303 detachably integrated, users or maintenance personnel can easily and quickly remove it from between the inlet pipe 301 and the outlet pipe 302, or from the outside or inside of the inlet pipe 301, or from the outside or inside of the outlet pipe 302, when the functional materials reach the end of their service life or their effectiveness declines. This allows for replacement of the water-passing device 303 or its internal functional materials without requiring large-scale modifications or replacements to the entire water piping system, significantly reducing maintenance costs and difficulties, minimizing maintenance time, and improving equipment availability. Because the water-passing device 303 is detachable, different types or combinations of functional materials (such as scale inhibitors, bactericides, and purifying materials, and their proportions) can be flexibly selected according to actual water quality and usage requirements. For example, in areas with high water hardness, the proportion of scale inhibitors can be increased; in areas with high bacterial content, the use of bactericides can be strengthened. This targeted configuration allows for fuller utilization of functional materials, improving material efficiency and thus enhancing the water treatment effect of the water-passing device 303. The water-passing device 303, as a detachable module, is integrated with the inlet pipe 301 and / or outlet pipe 302, making the overall water system structure clearer, with each module relatively independent, facilitating production, installation, and maintenance.

[0109] The following describes in detail an embodiment in which at least part of the water outlet pipe 302 is disposed inside the water inlet pipe 301 and the water passing device 303 is integrated between the water inlet pipe 301 and the water outlet pipe 302.

[0110] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, at least part of the outlet pipe 302 is located inside the inlet pipe 301. A water-passing device 303 is integrated between the inlet pipe 301 and the outlet pipe 302. The water-passing device 303 may include an inner wall 331 and an outer wall 332 spaced apart by a predetermined distance. A functional material is accommodated between the inner wall 331 and the outer wall 332. The outlet pipe 302, inner wall 331, outer wall 332, and inlet pipe 301 are arranged radially from the inside out. In this embodiment, water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 first flows into a first flow channel between the wall of the outlet pipe 302 and the inner wall 331 of the water-passing device 303, then flows through the inner wall 331 of the water-passing device 303 into a second flow channel within the water-passing device 303, and then flows through the outer wall 332 of the water-passing device 303 to a third flow channel between the outer wall 332 of the water-passing device 303 and the wall of the inlet pipe 301, before flowing into the water heater. In this embodiment, the inner wall 331 of the water-passing device 303 is provided with a first connecting portion, and the outer wall 332 is provided with a second connecting portion. The inlet pipe 301 has an outlet on its wall. The first connecting portion connects the first flow channel and the second flow channel. The second connecting portion connects the second flow channel and the third flow channel. The outlet connects the third flow channel and the inner tank of the water heater. In some embodiments, the first connecting portion may include an opening on the inner wall 331, and the second connecting portion may include an opening on the outer wall 332. In other embodiments, the inner wall 331 includes a first wire mesh, and the outer wall 332 includes a second wire mesh. Compared to using the wall of the inlet pipe 301 as the outer wall 332 of the water-passing device 303, in this embodiment, the outer wall 332 of the water-passing device 303 is set independently from the wall of the inlet pipe 301. This allows water in the water-passing device 303 to flow into the flow channel between the outer wall 332 and the wall of the inlet pipe 301 via the second connecting part on the outer wall 332, and then into the water heater. By setting the number and connecting area of ​​the second connecting parts on the outer wall 332, the utilization rate of the functional materials in the water-passing device 303 can be improved without modifying the wall of the inlet pipe 301.

[0111] like Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, at least a portion of the outlet pipe 302 is located inside the inlet pipe 301. The water-passing device 303 may include an inner wall 331 and an outer wall 332 spaced apart by a predetermined distance. The wall of the inlet pipe 301 is the outer wall 332. The outlet pipe 302, the inner wall 331, and the inlet pipe 301 are arranged radially from the inside out. In this embodiment, water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 first flows into a first flow channel between the wall of the outlet pipe 302 and the inner wall 331 of the water-passing device 303, then flows into a second flow channel in the water-passing device 303 via the inner wall 331, and then flows into the water heater via the wall of the inlet pipe 301. In this embodiment, the inner wall 331 of the water-passing device 303 is provided with a first connecting portion, and the wall of the inlet pipe 301 is provided with a water outlet. The first connecting portion is used to connect the first flow channel and the second flow channel. The water outlet is used to connect the second flow channel and the inner tank of the water heater. In some embodiments, the first connecting portion may include an opening provided on the inner wall 331, and the outlet may include an opening provided on the pipe wall of the inlet pipe 301. In this embodiment, the pipe wall of the inlet pipe 301 can be reused as the outer wall 332 of the water-passing device 303, which can reduce the manufacturing cost of the water pipe assembly 300.

[0112] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, the water-passing device 303 may further include an upper sealing portion 333. The upper sealing portion 333 is connected to the upper part of the inner wall 331 and the upper part of the outer wall 332. The upper sealing portion 333 is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall 331 and the outer wall 332 from above. The upper sealing portion 333 is provided with a first through hole 3331, through which the water outlet pipe 302 passes. By providing the upper sealing portion 333, the functional material located between the inner wall 331 and the outer wall 332 can be sealed from above, preventing the lightweight functional material from moving upward due to buoyancy or water flow impact, and avoiding the functional material from overflowing from above into the water-passing device 303 and being lost.

[0113] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, there is a predetermined interval between the first through hole 3331 of the upper sealing part 333 and the water outlet pipe 302. The predetermined interval refers to the radial distance between the edge of the first through hole 3331 and the wall of the water outlet pipe 302. That is, there is a gap between the edge of the first through hole 3331 and the wall of the water outlet pipe 302, allowing water between the wall of the water outlet pipe 302 and the wall of the water inlet pipe 301 to flow upwards through this gap. A water-blocking part 304 is provided at the upper part of the water inlet pipe 301. The water-blocking part 304 is connected to the water outlet pipe 302 and is used to prevent water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 from continuing to flow upwards after passing through this gap. By providing the water-blocking part 304, water flowing into the channel between the walls of the water outlet pipe 302 and the water inlet pipe 301 can be prevented from continuing to flow upwards and instead flows to the water-passing device 303, improving the utilization rate of the functional materials and enhancing the functional processing effect of the water-passing device 303.

[0114] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown in some embodiments of this specification, a bypass channel is provided between the water-blocking part 304 and the upper sealing part 333, allowing water to enter the water heater without passing through the water-passing device 303. By providing a bypass channel for water supply between the water-blocking part 304 and the upper sealing part 333, water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 can still flow into the water heater through the bypass channel even if the water-passing device 303 is blocked. This avoids the water heater becoming unusable due to blockage of the water-passing device 303, thus balancing the scale inhibition efficiency and water supply reliability of the water heater, improving the fault tolerance of the water heater, and enhancing the user experience.

[0115] In some embodiments of this specification, the flow area of ​​the bypass channel is much smaller than that of the main channel (water passage device 303), or in other words, the flow resistance of the bypass channel is much greater than that of the water passage device 303. When the pressure drop of the water passage device 303 exceeds the threshold due to blockage by functional materials, the water flow is forced to enter the water heater directly through the bypass channel instead of the water passage device 303, thus avoiding a complete water outage. The bypass channel is automatically activated only in cases of extreme blockage; in daily use, it still passes through the water passage device 303 for scale inhibition. When the water flow mainly enters the water heater through the bypass channel, the user can observe a decrease in the water flow rate (indicating the need to replace the functional materials or the water passage device 303), providing a maintenance buffer period and avoiding the inconvenience of sudden water outages.

[0116] like Figure 3As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, the water-passing device 303 may further include an upper sealing portion 333. The upper sealing portion 333 is connected to the upper part of the inner wall 331 and the upper part of the outer wall 332. The upper sealing portion 333 is used to block the functional material located between the inner wall 331 and the outer wall 332 from above. The upper sealing portion 333 is provided with a first through hole 3331, through which the water outlet pipe 302 passes. The first through hole 3331 of the upper sealing portion 333 is also connected to the water outlet pipe 302, used to block the water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300, so that the water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 flows to the water-passing device 303. In this embodiment, the first through hole 3331 and the water outlet pipe 302 fit tightly to ensure that the water flows through without gaps, forcing the water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 to pass through the functional material in the water-passing device 303. By connecting the first through hole 3331 of the upper sealing part 333 to the water outlet pipe 302, the water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 can be blocked from continuing to flow upward, so that the water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 flows to the water passing device 303, thereby improving the utilization rate of functional materials and improving the functional treatment effect of the water passing device 303.

[0117] In some embodiments of this specification, the water-passing device 303 may further include an upper sealing portion 333. The upper sealing portion 333 is connected to the upper part of the inner wall 331 and the upper part of the outer wall 332. The upper sealing portion 333 is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall 331 and the outer wall 332 from above. The upper sealing portion 333 is provided with a first through hole 3331, through which the water outlet pipe 302 passes. A water-blocking portion 304 is provided on the upper part of the inner wall 331 and / or the outer wall 332. The water-blocking portion 304 is connected to the water outlet pipe 302 and is used to block water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300, so that the water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 flows into the water-passing device 303. By setting the water-blocking part 304, the water flowing into the channel between the wall of the outlet pipe 302 and the wall of the inlet pipe 301 can be prevented from continuing to flow upward, and instead flow to the water-passing device 303, thereby improving the utilization rate of functional materials and enhancing the functional treatment effect of the water-passing device 303.

[0118] like Figure 4As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, the water-passing device 303 may further include a lower sealing portion 334. The lower sealing portion 334 is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall 331 and the outer wall 332 from below, completely sealing the functional material between the inner wall 331 and the outer wall 332 from below, forming a closed space, preventing leakage of the functional material from below, ensuring that the functional material functions within a specific area, and improving the stability and reliability of the material. The lower sealing portion 334 is connected to the lower part of the inner wall 331 and the lower part of the outer wall 332. The lower sealing portion 334 is provided with a second through hole 3341. The water outlet pipe 302 passes through the second through hole 3341, allowing water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 to flow upward through the gap between the water outlet pipe 302 and the second through hole 3341, enabling the water flow to pass through the water-passing device 303 in an orderly manner and fully contact the functional material.

[0119] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, the water-passing device 303 may further include a lower sealing portion 334. The lower sealing portion 334 is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall 331 and the outer wall 332 from below. The lower sealing portion 334 is connected to the lower part of the outer wall 332. The lower sealing portion 334 is provided with a second through hole 3341. The inner wall 331 passes through the second through hole 3341. The second through hole 3341 and the inner wall 331 are either gap-sealed or contact-sealed. A gap seal can utilize the minute resistance of the annular gap between the second through hole 3341 and the inner wall 331 to block material particles. A contact seal can achieve a zero-gap seal by the inner wall 331 and the second through hole 3341 being in close contact through a sealing ring or other structure. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a gap seal can be achieved through the engagement of the groove in the inner wall 331 and the protruding ring in the lower sealing part 334. This not only provides a seal but also allows for radial positioning of the inner wall 331. In this embodiment, by configuring the second through hole 3341 to provide a gap seal or contact seal with the inner wall 331, leakage of functional materials between the inner wall 331 and the outer wall 332 into the flow channel can be prevented. This prevents the materials from accumulating in the flow channel due to leakage, thus avoiding any impact on their performance. This ensures that the functional materials maintain good activity and effectiveness for a longer period, improving their service life and performance. Furthermore, by configuring the inner wall 331 to pass through the second through hole 3341, the downwardly extending inner wall 331 can guide water flowing upward into the water pipe assembly 300, improving the utilization rate of the functional materials in the water-passing device 303 and thereby enhancing the functional treatment effect.

[0120] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, the water-passing device 303 may further include a lower sealing portion 334. The lower sealing portion 334 is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall 331 and the outer wall 332 from below. The lower sealing portion 334 is connected to the lower part of the outer wall 332. The lower sealing portion 334 is provided with a second through hole 3341. The inner wall 331 passes through the second through hole 3341. The second through hole 3341 provides a gap seal or a contact seal with the inner wall 331. Please refer to... Figure 6 The diagram shows a partial structural schematic of the water-passing device in this embodiment, including the inner wall. Figure 6 As shown, the inner wall 331 may include a connected perforated inner wall 3311 and a non-perforated inner wall 3312. The non-perforated inner wall 3312 is at least partially located below the perforated inner wall 3311. The non-perforated inner wall 3312 has a second through hole 3341. In some embodiments, as Figure 6 As shown, the perforated inner wall 3311 has a wire mesh structure.

[0121] A flow channel is formed between the non-porous inner wall 3312 located below and the wall of the outlet pipe 302, providing a specific flow path for the water, allowing the water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 to flow in the designed direction. That is, the water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 can be guided to flow upward, and then the water can fully contact the functional material located between the inner wall 331 and the outer wall 332. Compared with the case without such flow channel guidance, in this embodiment, by making the non-porous inner wall 3312 pass through a second channel, the water can pass through the functional material in the water-passing device 303 more evenly, increasing the contact area and contact time between the water and the functional material, so that the effective components in the functional material can interact more fully with the water, improving the utilization rate of the functional material, thereby improving the functional treatment effect.

[0122] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, the water-passing device 303 may include an inner wall 331 and an outer wall 332. At least a portion of the outlet pipe 302 is located inside the inlet pipe 301. The outlet pipe 302, inner wall 331, outer wall 332, and inlet pipe 301 are arranged radially from the inside out. In this embodiment, water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 first flows into a first flow channel between the wall of the outlet pipe 302 and the inner wall 331 of the water-passing device 303, then flows through the inner wall 331 of the water-passing device 303 into a second flow channel in the water-passing device 303, and then flows through the outer wall 332 of the water-passing device 303 to a third flow channel between the outer wall 332 of the water-passing device 303 and the wall of the inlet pipe 301, and then flows into the water heater. In this embodiment, the inner wall 331 of the water-passing device 303 is provided with a first connecting portion, and the outer wall 332 is provided with a second connecting portion. The first connecting portion is used to connect the first flow channel and the second flow channel. The second connecting portion is used to connect the second flow channel and the third flow channel. In some embodiments, the first connecting portion may include an opening provided on the inner wall 331, and the second connecting portion may include an opening provided on the outer wall 332. In other embodiments, the inner wall 331 includes a first wire mesh, and the outer wall 332 includes a second wire mesh. Compared to using the wall of the inlet pipe 301 as the outer wall 332 of the water-passing device 303, in this embodiment, the outer wall 332 of the water-passing device 303 is independently provided with respect to the wall of the inlet pipe 301, so that the water in the water-passing device 303 can flow through the second connecting portion on the outer wall 332 into the flow channel between the outer wall 332 of the water-passing device 303 and the wall of the inlet pipe 301, and then flow into the water heater. By providing the second connecting portion on the outer wall 332, the utilization rate of the functional materials in the water-passing device 303 can be improved without modifying the wall of the inlet pipe 301. Furthermore, the water-passing device 303 can be detachably connected to the inlet pipe 301 and / or the outlet pipe 302, so that it can be detachably removed from the gap between the outlet pipe 302 and the inlet pipe 301. By configuring the water-passing device 303 to be detachably removed from the gap between the outlet pipe 302 and the inlet pipe 301, it is convenient to maintain and replace the water-passing device 303, and also convenient to replace the internal functional materials (the water-passing device can be replaced or not). That is to say, the water-passing device 303 can be directly disassembled and replaced with a new water-passing device 303. Alternatively, after disassembling the water-passing device 303, the upper sealing part 333 or the lower sealing part 334 can be removed, and only the functional materials therein can be replaced or replenished, and then the removed upper sealing part 333 or lower sealing part 334 can be installed, that is, the external structure of the water-passing device 303 can be reused.

[0123] In some embodiments of this specification, the water-passing device 303 may include an inner wall 331 and an outer wall 332. At least a portion of the water outlet pipe 302 is located inside the water inlet pipe 301, and the water outlet pipe 302, inner wall 331, outer wall 332, and water inlet pipe 301 are arranged radially from the inside out. Further, the water inlet pipe 301 is provided with a limiting structure 311 inwardly, which is used to radially limit the outer wall 332. In some embodiments, such as... Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a limiting structure 311 can be formed by recessing the wall of the inlet pipe 301 inward. In other embodiments, the limiting structure 311 can be a separate structure, such as an annular limiting structure 311. The outer side of the limiting structure 311 is connected to the inner surface of the wall of the inlet pipe 301, and the inner side is connected to the outer wall 332 of the water-passing device 303. In this embodiment, the limiting structure 311 provided inward for the inlet pipe 301 can radially limit the outer wall 332, ensuring that the outer wall 332 is accurately and fixed in the device, enhancing the structural strength of the entire water-passing device 303, ensuring that the functional material functions in a stable space, improving the use effect and stability of the functional material, thereby enhancing the functional treatment effect.

[0124] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown in some embodiments of this specification, the water pipe assembly 300 may further include a support member 305. The support member 305 is disposed below the water-passing device 303 to support the lower part of the water-passing device 303. By providing the support member 305, the water-passing device 303 can be axially limited, ensuring that the position of the water-passing device 303 within the water pipe assembly 300 is fixed. This helps maintain the structural stability of the entire water pipe assembly 300, preventing the water-passing device 303 from undergoing axial displacement under water flow impact or other external forces, thereby ensuring the accurate relative positions between the components and allowing water to flow through the water-passing device 303 along the designed path, fully enhancing its functional processing effect. The support member 305 can be sealed to the inner surface of the inlet pipe 301, preventing water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 from flowing directly to the water heater through the space between the support member 305 and the inlet pipe 301 without flowing through the water-passing device 303. This ensures that water must pass through the water-passing device 303 before flowing into the water heater, thereby improving the functional treatment effect of the water-passing device 303, allowing functional materials to fully contact the water, enhancing the water treatment capacity, and ensuring the treatment efficiency and quality of the entire water pipe assembly 300. In some embodiments, the support member 305 is non-removably sealed to the inlet pipe 301, improving the stability of the support member 305, reducing the risk of leakage due to loosening or disassembly of the connection, and also enhancing the support strength of the support member 305 for the water-passing device 303. In other embodiments, the support 305 is detachably and sealed to the water inlet pipe 301, which facilitates the maintenance and replacement of the water-passing device 303. When it is necessary to maintain the water-passing device 303 or replace the functional materials therein, the user can easily disassemble the support 305 and take out the water-passing device 303 for operation, which reduces maintenance costs and difficulty, improves the maintainability of the water pipe assembly 300, extends its service life, and also facilitates product upgrades and improvements.

[0125] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, a lower sealing portion 334 is provided at the lower part of the water-passing device 303. The lower sealing portion 334 is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall 331 and the outer wall 332 from below. The support member 305 is used to support the lower sealing portion 334. The lower sealing portion 334 is provided with a second through hole 3341, through which the water outlet pipe 302 passes (e.g., ...). Figure 4 As shown), or a second through hole 3341 is provided through the inner wall 331 (as shown). Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 (As shown). In this embodiment, the lower sealing part 334 is supported by the support member 305, thereby providing stable support for the water inlet pipe 301.

[0126] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, the support member 305 may further include a radially extending first limiting portion 351. For example... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the first limiting part 351 is located outside the inner wall 331 to limit the inner wall 331. When the first limiting part 351 is located outside the inner wall 331 to limit the inner wall 331, it can ensure the accurate position of the inner wall 331 in the water-passing device 303, so that a stable and uniform space is formed between the inner wall 331 and the outer wall 332, so that the functional material can be evenly distributed and play its role therein. In other embodiments, the first limiting part 351 is located outside the water outlet pipe 302 to limit the water outlet pipe 302. When the first limiting part 351 is located outside the water outlet pipe 302 to limit the water outlet pipe 302, it can accurately fix the position of the water outlet pipe 302, ensure the stability of the relative positional relationship between the water outlet pipe 302 and other components, so that the water flow can flow smoothly along the preset path, avoiding problems such as water flow turbulence caused by component position deviation.

[0127] In some embodiments of this specification, the inlet pipe 301 may further include a stop 312, which is disposed above the water-passing device 303 to stop the upper part of the water-passing device 303. The stop 312, disposed above the water-passing device 303, can effectively limit the axial movement of the water-passing device 303 from above, preventing it from moving in the axial direction. During the operation of the water pipe assembly 300, the impact force of the water flow and other external forces may affect the water-passing device 303. The presence of the stop 312 ensures that the water-passing device 303 is always in the correct position, ensuring a stable relative positional relationship between it and other components, thereby enabling the entire water pipe assembly 300 to operate normally. When installing the water pipe assembly 300, the stop 312 also provides a clear positional reference for the installation of the water-passing device 303, making the installation process simpler and more accurate. Installers can quickly install the water-passing device 303 in the correct position based on the position of the stop 312, reducing installation errors and debugging time. In terms of maintenance, when it is necessary to inspect or replace the water-passing device 303, the presence of the stop 312 makes it easier to determine the position and status of the water-passing device 303, thus improving maintenance efficiency.

[0128] In some embodiments of this specification, the outer edge of the stop member 312 is sealed to the peripheral wall of the inlet pipe 301, and the inner edge of the stop member 312 is sealed to the peripheral wall of the outlet pipe 302. This sealing connection enhances the sealing performance of the water pipe assembly 300, effectively preventing water leakage between the stop member 312 and the inlet and outlet pipes 301 and 302, avoiding water bypass, and ensuring that water flows only through the water device 303 along a predetermined path. This improves the working efficiency and functional processing effect of the water device 303. Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the stop 312 can be a water-blocking part 304. When the stop 312 is a water-blocking part 304, it can both axially limit the water-passing device 303 and achieve the water-blocking function. This reduces the number of parts and simplifies the structure of the water pipe assembly 300. It not only reduces manufacturing and installation costs but also reduces potential failure points caused by too many parts, improving the reliability and stability of the entire system. It can also prevent water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 from continuing to flow upward through the gap between the stop 312 and the outlet pipe 302 and the inlet pipe 301, forcing the water to flow towards the water-passing device 303, thereby improving the utilization rate of functional materials. In addition, the sealed connection between the stop 312 and the inlet pipe 301 and the outlet pipe 302 enhances the structural stability of the entire water pipe assembly 300.

[0129] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, the water-passing device 303 may further include an upper sealing portion 333, which is connected to the upper part of the inner wall 331 and the upper part of the outer wall 332. The upper sealing portion 333 is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall 331 and the outer wall 332 from above. The upper sealing portion 333 is provided with a first through hole 3331, through which the water outlet pipe 302 passes. A second limiting portion 3332 is provided on the upper part of the upper sealing portion 333, which is used to abut against the stop member 312. The second limiting portion 3332 on the upper part of the upper sealing portion 333 abuts against the stop member 312, thereby achieving precise axial positioning of the water-passing device 303. When the water flow generates axial thrust, the contact between the second limiting part 3332 and the stop member 312 can effectively prevent the axial displacement of the water-passing device 303, ensuring that the relative positions between the components remain stable and guaranteeing the normal operation of the entire water pipe assembly 300. In addition, when the water-passing device 303 is installed, the contact between the second limiting part 3332 and the stop member 312 can also ensure that the installation is in place.

[0130] In some embodiments of this specification, the first through hole 3331 of the upper sealing part 333 and the water outlet pipe 302 are spaced apart by a predetermined interval. When the second limiting part 3332 is in position abutting against the stop member 312, a water supply channel is formed between the upper sealing part 333 and the stop member 312, or a water supply channel is provided on the second limiting part 3332 or the stop member 312. In some embodiments, a water supply channel can be formed by providing multiple openings.

[0131] In this embodiment, when there is a predetermined gap between the first through hole 3331 of the upper sealing part 333 and the water outlet pipe 302, and when water supply channels are provided between the upper sealing part 333 and the stop member 312, on the second limiting part 3332, or on the stop member 312, even if there is a blockage or other abnormality inside the water-passing device 303, water can still enter the water heater through these channels. That is, the water first flows upward through the gap between the first through hole 3331 and the water outlet pipe 302, and then flows to the water heater through the water supply channels provided between the upper sealing part 333 and the stop member 312, on the second limiting part 3332, or on the stop member 312. Through this method, the situation where the water heater cannot be used normally due to a malfunction of the water-passing device 303 is avoided, ensuring that users can still obtain hot water supply under special circumstances, and improving the reliability and practicality of the entire system. On the one hand, it ensures sufficient contact between functional materials and water flow to improve the functional treatment effect; on the other hand, by setting up a backup flow channel, it avoids the risk of system failure caused by an overly enclosed structure. This can improve the overall performance of the system and extend its service life.

[0132] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, when the stop member 312 is a water-blocking part 304, when there is a predetermined gap between the first through hole 3331 of the upper sealing part 333 and the water outlet pipe 302, and when a water supply passage is provided between the upper sealing part 333 and the stop member 312, on the second limiting part 3332 or on the stop member 312, even if there is a blockage or other abnormality inside the water-passing device 303, the water can still enter the water heater through these passages. That is, the water first flows upward through the gap between the first through hole 3331 and the water outlet pipe 302, and then flows to the water heater through the water supply passage provided between the upper sealing part 333 and the stop member 312, on the second limiting part 3332 or on the stop member 312.

[0133] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 6In some embodiments of this specification, the inner wall 331 may include a connected perforated inner wall 3311 (which may be a first wire mesh) and a non-perforated inner wall 3312, with the non-perforated inner wall 3312 located at least partially below the first wire mesh. When water flows from bottom to top into the water pipe assembly 300, the non-perforated inner wall 3312 can initially block and guide the water flow, allowing the water flow to be more evenly distributed to the functional material above. This not only avoids the water flow concentrating and impacting a certain area, but also promotes full contact between the water flow and the functional material, improving the utilization rate of the material and the functional treatment effect.

[0134] In some embodiments of this specification, the inner wall 331 may include a first wire mesh, and the outer wall 332 may include a second wire mesh. The first and second wire meshes effectively confine the functional material within the space between the inner wall 331 and the outer wall 332, preventing the functional material from moving, accumulating, or leaking under the impact of water flow, thus improving material utilization and the functional treatment effect of the water-passing device. Please refer to... Figure 7 This diagram illustrates a partial structural schematic of the water-passing device, including its inner wall, in an embodiment of this specification. (See attached diagram.) Figure 7 As shown, the inner wall 331 can be the first wire mesh.

[0135] The above embodiments have described in detail the implementation of a water pipe assembly in which at least a portion of the outlet pipe 302 is integrated inside the inlet pipe 301. It is understood that, for the case where at least a portion of the inlet pipe 301 is located inside the outlet pipe 302, the above description can be used as a reference, and will not be repeated here.

[0136] This specification also provides an embodiment of a water heater. Please refer to... Figure 8 and Figure 9 The diagrams show a schematic diagram and a partial cross-sectional view of the water heater in the embodiments of this specification. Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the water heater 10 may include the water pipe assembly 300 in any of the above embodiments.

[0137] In this embodiment, the water heater 10 is equipped with a water pipe assembly 300 as described in any of the above embodiments. The water pipe assembly 300 includes an inlet pipe 301 and an outlet pipe 302. The water pipe assembly 300 also includes a water-passing device 303. The water-passing device 303 is used to place functional materials for functionalizing the water flowing through the water-passing device 303 (e.g., scale inhibition, descaling, sterilization, purification, etc.). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the outlet pipe 302 is integrated inside the inlet pipe 301. By integrating at least a portion of the outlet pipe 302 inside the inlet pipe 301, the outlet pipe 302 and the inlet pipe 301 are relatively compactly arranged, making the structure of the water pipe assembly 300 more integrated and reducing the risk of leakage. The water-passing device 303 is integrated with the inlet pipe 301 and / or the outlet pipe 302. Water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 can enter the water heater 10 through the water-passing device 303 and the inlet pipe 301, and water in the water heater 10 can flow out through the outlet pipe 302. Since the water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 can enter the water heater 10 through the water-passing device 303 and the inlet pipe 301, it can be pre-treated before the water flows into the water heater 10. Functional treatments are implemented, taking scale inhibition or descaling as an example. By integrating the water flow device 303 with the inlet pipe 301 and / or outlet pipe 302, the water pipe assembly 300 can be integrated to enhance its structural integration while inhibiting or descaling the water flowing into the water heater 10. This also ensures that the water flowing into the water heater 10 contains low levels of inorganic salts or impurities, thereby reducing scale buildup on the inner wall of the inner tank and heating elements in the water heater 10. Since the water in the water heater 10 can flow into the outlet pipe 302, scale buildup in the outlet pipe 302 can also be reduced. Furthermore, the water flowing from the outlet pipe 302 into the mixing valve or water-using device contains low levels of inorganic salts, thereby reducing scale buildup in the mixing valve or water-using device. In some other embodiments, at least part of the inlet pipe 301 is integrated inside the outlet pipe 302. By placing at least part of the inlet pipe 301 inside the outlet pipe 302, the outlet pipe 302 and the inlet pipe 301 are relatively compactly arranged, making the structure of the water pipe assembly 300 more integrated and reducing the risk of leakage. The water passing device 303 is connected to the inlet pipe 301 and / or the outlet pipe 302. Water flowing into the water pipe assembly 300 can flow into the water heater 10 through the inlet pipe 301, and water in the water heater 10 can flow out through the water passing device 303 and the outlet pipe 302. Since the water in the water heater 10 can flow out through the water-passing device 303 and the water outlet pipe 302, the water flowing out of the water heater 10 can be functionally treated. Taking sterilization as an example, by setting the water-passing device 303 to be integrated with the water inlet pipe 301 and / or the water outlet pipe 302, the water pipe assembly 300 can be sterilized before it flows out of the water heater 10, while enhancing the structural integration of the water pipe assembly 300, thus better protecting the health of the water used.

[0138] The water heater 10 in the above embodiments, by employing the aforementioned water pipe assembly 300, can effectively perform functional treatments (such as scale inhibition, descaling, sterilization, and purification) on the water entering or flowing out of the water heater 10, thereby providing users with cleaner and healthier hot water and improving the water usage experience. In some embodiments, by performing scale inhibition treatment before the water flows into the water heater 10, the deposition of scale on components such as the inner tank 200 and heating element of the water heater 10 is reduced. The reduction of scale can reduce the problem of decreased heat transfer efficiency caused by scale, avoid local overheating damage to the heating element, and also reduce the risk of leakage in the inner tank 200 due to scale corrosion, thereby extending the overall service life of the water heater 10 and reducing the frequency and cost of replacing the water heater 10 for users. In some embodiments, the water pipe assembly 300 adopts a detachable water passage device 303, which facilitates the replacement of internal functional materials and the inspection and maintenance of components by users or maintenance personnel. When maintenance is required, the water-passing device 303 can be easily disassembled without complex operations on the entire water heater 10, reducing maintenance difficulty and cost, as well as maintenance time, allowing the water heater 10 to return to normal operation more quickly. Furthermore, high-quality water treatment reduces the impact of limescale on heating efficiency, enabling the water heater 10 to operate more efficiently when heating water, thus reducing energy consumption.

[0139] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, the water heater 10 may further include an inner tank 200. The inner tank 200 is used to store water. An opening 201 is provided on the inner tank 200 for a water supply pipe assembly to pass through. In this embodiment, by connecting the water supply pipe assembly to the inner tank 200 through one opening 201, only one opening 201 is needed on the inner tank 200, simplifying the process and reducing potential leakage points.

[0140] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, the water heater 10 may further include a mixing valve 100. For example... Figures 10 to 13 As shown, the mixing valve 100 may include a valve body 101 and a valve core (not shown in the figure).

[0141] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the valve body 101 may include a cold water inlet 113, a cold water outlet 114, a hot water inlet 115, and a mixing water outlet 116. The cold water inlet 113 may be connected to a cold water source, so that cold water from the cold water source can flow into the mixing valve 100.

[0142] The cold water outlet 114 and the hot water inlet 115 can be connected to the inner tank 200 of the water heater. The concept of cold water can be water at the same temperature as tap water, or it can be a relative concept, water that is colder than the water in the hot water inlet (such as water that is preheated to a temperature higher than tap water but lower than the water in the hot water inlet).

[0143] The cold water outlet 114 can be used to allow cold water in the mixing valve 100 to flow from the mixing valve 100 to the inner tank 200 of the water heater. The hot water inlet 115 can be used to allow hot water in the inner tank 200 of the water heater to flow into the mixing outlet 116 of the mixing valve 100.

[0144] In this embodiment, the terms "inlet" or "outlet" in the hot water inlet 115, cold water outlet 114, cold water inlet 113, and mixing water outlet 116 are all relative to the mixing valve 100. "Inlet" means water flows into the mixing valve 100, and "outlet" means water flows out of the mixing valve 100.

[0145] like Figure 13 As shown, the hot water inlet 115 and the cold water outlet 114 are connected to the inner tank 200 of the water heater through a port 201 on the inner tank 200. In some embodiments, the hot water inlet 115 and the cold water outlet 114 can be directly connected to the inner tank 200 through a port 201 on the inner tank 200, that is, hot water in the inner tank 200 can flow into the hot water inlet 115 of the mixing valve 100 through this port 201. Water from the cold water outlet 114 of the mixing valve 100 can flow into the inner tank 200 through this port 201. In other embodiments, the hot water inlet 115 and the cold water outlet 114 can be connected to the water pipe assembly 300 and connected to the inner tank 200 of the water heater through this port 201 and the water pipe assembly 300. In this embodiment, by connecting the hot water inlet 115 and the cold water outlet 114 to the inner tank 200 through a port 201 on the inner tank 200 of the water heater, only one port needs to be provided on the inner tank 200, which is relatively simple and has fewer leakage points.

[0146] Please continue to refer to this. Figures 11 to 13The valve body 101 may further include a cold water chamber 110, a first cold water connection 111, and a second cold water connection 112. The cold water chamber 110 is connected to a cold water inlet 113. Cold water can flow into the cold water chamber 110 through the cold water inlet 113. A valve core is disposed inside the cold water chamber 110. The valve core is used to divert water entering the cold water chamber 110 to the first cold water connection 111 and the second cold water connection 112. Specifically, after the cold water in the cold water inlet 113 flows into the cold water chamber 110, it enters the valve core, and then flows out to the first cold water connection 111 and the second cold water connection 112 after being diverted by the valve core. The first cold water connection 111 is used to connect the cold water chamber 110 and the cold water outlet 114, so that cold water flows into the inner tank 200 of the water heater through an opening 201 on the inner tank 200. The second cold water connection 112 connects the cold water chamber 110 to the mixing water outlet 116. The hot water inlet 115 allows hot water from the inner tank 200 of the water heater to flow into the mixing water outlet 116 through a port 201 on the inner tank 200. Compared to directly adjusting the ratio of hot and cold water via the valve core, this embodiment adjusts the ratio of cold water diverted from the cold water chamber 110 to the first cold water connection 111 and the second cold water connection 112 via the valve core. This indirectly adjusts the ratio of cold and hot water flowing into the mixing water outlet 116, achieving adjustment of the mixing water outlet temperature. It also prevents the valve core from contacting hot water and easily forming scale. Figures 11 to 13 As shown, the first cold water connecting part and the second cold water connecting part have a preset length, which can also separate the valve core in the cold water chamber from the cold water outlet and / or the hot water inlet, and avoid the hot water directly or indirectly interfering with the valve core, thereby improving the reliability of the mixing valve 100 and the accuracy of water temperature regulation.

[0147] The mixing outlet 116 can mix cold water flowing in from the second cold water connection 112 and hot water flowing in from the hot water inlet 115. That is, the mixing outlet 116 is used to mix cold water and hot water and then output the mixed water. The inlet of the mixing outlet 116 is connected to both the second cold water connection 112 and the hot water inlet 115. The outlet of the mixing outlet 116 is used to output the mixed water.

[0148] In some embodiments, the mixing outlet 116 is provided with a first inlet and a second inlet. The mixing outlet 116 is connected to the second cold water communication section 112 through the first inlet and to the hot water inlet section 115 through the second inlet. The first inlet may include one or more inlets. The second inlet may include one or more inlets. The first inlet and the second inlet may be the same inlet or different inlets.

[0149] The hot water flow channel formed in the hot water inlet section 115 and the cold water flow channel formed in the cold water outlet section 114 are independent of each other. For example... Figures 11 to 13As shown, at least a portion of the hot water inlet 115 is located inside the cold water outlet 114. Correspondingly, at least a portion of the outlet pipe communicating with the hot water inlet 115 is located inside the inlet pipe communicating with the cold water outlet 114. In this embodiment, "at least a portion of A is located inside B" means that at least a portion of the cross-section of A is located inside the cross-section of B, that is, the cross-section of B surrounds at least a portion of the cross-section of A. Figure 11 and Figure 13 As shown in the embodiments of this specification, the x-direction is the transverse direction, and the z-direction is the longitudinal direction (i.e., the height direction). The cross-section in the embodiments of this specification refers to the cross-section obtained by cutting along a direction perpendicular to the z-direction.

[0150] In this embodiment, by configuring at least a portion of the hot water inlet 115 of the mixing valve 100 inside the cold water outlet 114, the hot water inlet 115 and the cold water outlet 114 are arranged relatively compactly, which reduces the size of the mixing valve 100 and thus lowers its manufacturing cost. Furthermore, it also reduces the size of the same opening required on the inner tank 200 of the water heater, simplifying the sealing process and reducing the likelihood of leakage.

[0151] In some embodiments of this specification, the cold water chamber 110 is provided with a cold water inlet (not shown in the figure), a first cold water outlet 1101, and a second cold water outlet 1102. The cold water inlet is connected to the cold water inlet section 113, allowing water in the cold water inlet section 113 to enter the cold water chamber 110 via the cold water inlet. The first cold water outlet 1101 is connected to the first cold water connecting section 111, allowing water in the cold water chamber 110 to flow to the first cold water connecting section 111 via the first cold water outlet 1101. The second cold water outlet 1102 is connected to the second cold water connecting section 112, allowing water in the cold water chamber 110 to flow to the second cold water connecting section 112 via the second cold water outlet 1102. By providing a cold water inlet, a first cold water outlet 1101, and a second cold water outlet 1102 on the cold water chamber 110, the cold water chamber 110 is connected to the cold water inlet 113, the first cold water connecting part 111, and the second cold water connecting part 112.

[0152] like Figures 11 to 13As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, the first cold water outlet 1101 and the second cold water outlet 1102 are disposed on the same surface of the cold water cavity 110. The cold water cavity 110 may include multiple surfaces. The first cold water outlet 1101 and the second cold water outlet 1102 may be disposed on the same surface of the cold water cavity 110. By disposing the first cold water outlet 1101 and the second cold water outlet 1102 on the same surface of the cold water cavity 110, the two cold water outlet directions of the cold water cavity 110 are aligned. Compared to setting the two cold water outlet directions to be inconsistent, in this embodiment, setting the cold water outlet directions of the first cold water outlet 1101 and the second cold water outlet 1102 to be substantially aligned ensures that the valve body 101 has a smaller volume, while facilitating the guidance of the water from the two cold water outlets to the cold water outlet section 114 and the mixing water outlet section 116, respectively.

[0153] In some embodiments of this specification, the cold water inlet (not shown in the figure) is disposed on the same surface. Compared to disposing the cold water inlet on a different surface from the first cold water outlet 1101 and the second cold water outlet 1102, this embodiment simplifies the valve core structure, simplifies the manufacturing process, and increases reliability by disposing the cold water inlet, the first cold water outlet 1101, and the second cold water outlet 1102 on the same surface.

[0154] like Figures 11 to 13 As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, the same surface is the surface of the cold water cavity 110 facing the cold water outlet 114 and the mixed water outlet 116. Compared to placing the first cold water outlet 1101 and the second cold water outlet 1102 on other surfaces of the cold water cavity 110, in this embodiment, the first cold water outlet 1101 and the second cold water outlet 1102 are placed on the surfaces of the cold water cavity 110 facing the cold water outlet 114 and the mixing water outlet 116. This facilitates the connection between the cold water cavity 110 and the cold water outlet 114 and the mixing water outlet 116, shortens the distance between the cold water cavity 110 and the cold water outlet 114 and the mixing water outlet 116, reduces the length of the first cold water connection 111 and the second cold water connection 112, reduces the complexity of the valve body 101 structure of the mixing valve 100, reduces the size of the valve body 101, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the mixing valve 100, and the manufacturing process of the valve body 101 is simpler.

[0155] Please refer to Figure 14 and Figure 15 The diagram shows a schematic representation of the valve core in an embodiment of this specification. Figure 15As shown in some embodiments of this specification, the valve core 102 may include a movable valve plate 121 and a fixed valve plate 122. The fixed valve plate 122 is provided with a first cold water outlet 1221 and a second cold water outlet 1222. The first cold water outlet 1221 is used to communicate with a first cold water outlet 1101. The second cold water outlet 1222 is used to communicate with a second cold water outlet 1102. The first cold water outlet 1101 and the second cold water outlet 1102 are located on the same surface of the cold water chamber 110. At least a portion of the water flowing into the cold water chamber 110 from the cold water inlet 113 can flow through the first cold water outlet 1221 on the fixed valve plate 122 to the first cold water outlet 1101 on the cold water chamber 110, and then through the first cold water connecting part 111 to the cold water outlet 114. At least a portion of the water flowing into the cold water chamber 110 from the cold water inlet 113 can flow through the second cold water outlet 1222 on the fixed valve plate 122 to the second cold water outlet 1102 on the cold water chamber 110, and then through the second cold water connecting part 112 to the mixing water outlet 116. The movable valve plate 121 is used to control the connection between the cold water inlet 113 and the first cold water outlet 1221 and the second cold water outlet 1222, thereby controlling the ratio of water flow to the cold water outlet 114 and the mixing water outlet 116. Compared to setting the first cold water outlet 1221 and the second cold water outlet 1222 on different valve plates, in this embodiment, by setting the first cold water outlet 1101 and the second cold water outlet 1102 on the same side of the cold water cavity 110 and setting both the first cold water outlet 1221 and the second cold water outlet 1222 on the fixed valve plate 122, the cold water cavity 110 and the valve core 102 can be better matched, and there is no need to add a bending flow channel in the cold water cavity 110, making the manufacturing process simpler.

[0156] like Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the fixed valve plate 122 is also provided with a cold water inlet 1223, which is connected to the cold water inlet on the cold water chamber 110. Water flowing into the cold water inlet section 113 can flow through the cold water inlet on the cold water chamber 110 to the cold water inlet 1223 on the fixed valve plate 122, and then flow into the cold water chamber 110.

[0157] In some embodiments of this specification, the first cold water outlet 1101 and the second cold water outlet 1102 at least partially overlap in the lateral direction. Here, "lateral direction" refers to their projections onto a horizontal plane (i.e., a plane perpendicular to the z-direction). The at least partial overlap in the lateral direction means that the projections of the first cold water outlet 1101 and the second cold water outlet 1102 onto the horizontal plane at least partially overlap. This results in a smaller overall thickness of the valve body 101 (i.e., the dimension of the valve body 101 in the y-direction). When installed on a water heater, this reduces the local thickness of the water heater (i.e., the dimension of the water heater in the y-direction), reduces the installation volume of the mixing valve 100, and increases the distance between the mixing valve and the wall, thereby ensuring sufficient operating space for the external piping. Furthermore, it facilitates installation onto the inner tank 200 of the water heater while maintaining sufficient water flow, thus reducing manufacturing costs. For example, when the valve body 101 of the mixing valve is installed with the inner tank 200 of the water heater via a flange, if the size of the valve body 101 is too large, it cannot be adapted to the flange studs on the conventional inner tank 200, and the flange studs on the inner tank 200 need to be redeveloped, resulting in high costs. If the diameter of the first cold water outlet 1101 and the second cold water outlet 1102 is reduced due to size issues, the water flow rate cannot be guaranteed.

[0158] In some embodiments of this specification, the first cold water outlet 1101 and the second cold water outlet 1102 do not overlap in the lateral direction, but the lateral distance between them is less than a first preset distance. That is, the projections of the first cold water outlet 1101 and the second cold water outlet 1102 on the horizontal plane do not overlap, and the distance between the projections is less than the first preset distance. In other words, the first cold water outlet 1101 and the second cold water outlet 1102 are arranged close to each other in the lateral direction. Although the effect is not optimal compared with the previous embodiment, it is still an improvement with beneficial effects. It can reduce the overall thickness of the valve body 101 to a certain extent, reduce the manufacturing cost to a certain extent, facilitate installation on the inner tank 200 of the water heater to a certain extent, and reduce the installation thickness of the mixing valve 100 to a certain extent, thereby reducing the installation volume of the mixing valve 100 to a certain extent.

[0159] like Figures 10 to 13As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, the first cold water connection 111 and the second cold water connection 112 extend in the same direction. The first cold water connection 111 extends from the cold water chamber 110 to the cold water outlet 114. The second cold water connection 112 extends from the cold water chamber 110 to the mixed water outlet 116. Their extension directions are generally the same. "Generally the same" can mean that their extension directions are parallel or nearly parallel. For example, the extension direction of the first cold water connection 111 may be slightly inclined relative to the extension direction of the second cold water connection 112, with the angle of inclination being less than a preset angle. Or, for example, the extension paths of the first cold water connection 111 and / or the second cold water connection 112 may have bends, but they still generally extend towards the cold water outlet 114 and the mixed water outlet 116. By setting the extension directions of the first cold water connection 111 and the second cold water connection 112 to be generally the same, the size of the valve body 101 can be reduced, thus lowering costs.

[0160] In some embodiments of this specification, the first cold water connection portion 111 may include a first cold water connecting pipe. The second cold water connection portion 112 may include a second cold water connecting pipe. The first cold water connecting pipe and the second cold water connecting pipe are arranged in parallel. In this embodiment, the connection portion is arranged in the form of a connecting pipe, and the first cold water connecting pipe and the second cold water connecting pipe are parallel to each other. Compared to a non-parallel arrangement of the first cold water connecting pipe and the second cold water connecting pipe, this embodiment, by arranging the first cold water connecting pipe and the second cold water connecting pipe in parallel, can reduce the volume of the valve body 101, simplify the structure, and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0161] Please refer to Figure 16 This diagram illustrates the flow path within the mixing valve as described in an embodiment of this specification. Figure 16 As shown, in some embodiments of this specification, at least a portion of the hot water inlet 115 is located inside the cold water outlet 114. The first cold water connecting portion 111 is higher than the second cold water connecting portion 112. The first cold water connecting portion 111 extends from the cold water cavity 110 toward the cold water outlet 114. The second cold water connecting portion 112 extends from the cold water cavity 110 toward the mixed water outlet 116. The cold water channels in the cold water outlet 114 and the cold water channels in the second cold water connecting portion 112 do not intersect. Here, "not intersecting" means that the projections of the cold water channels in the cold water outlet 114 and the cold water channels in the second cold water connecting portion 112 onto the xz plane do not intersect. By setting at least part of the hot water inlet 115 inside the cold water outlet 114 and setting the first cold water connection 111 higher than the second cold water connection 112, the cold water flow channels in the cold water outlet 114 and the cold water flow channels in the second cold water connection 112 do not intersect.

[0162] In some embodiments of this specification, the cold water chamber 110 and the cold water outlet 114 and / or the hot water inlet 115 are spaced apart by a predetermined distance in the horizontal and / or vertical directions to be independently arranged. The first cold water connecting part 111 has a first cold water connecting pipe of a predetermined length, which connects the cold water chamber 110 and the cold water outlet 114. The second cold water connecting part 112 has a second cold water connecting pipe of a predetermined length, which connects the cold water chamber 110 and the mixing water outlet 116.

[0163] In this embodiment, "horizontal" can refer to the horizontal direction, parallel to the mounting wall surface, i.e., the x-direction. "Vertical" can refer to the vertical direction, parallel to the mounting wall surface, i.e., the z-direction. In some embodiments, such as... Figures 10 to 13 As shown, the cold water chamber 110 and the cold water outlet 114 and / or the hot water inlet 115 are spaced apart by a predetermined distance in the lateral direction.

[0164] In other embodiments, the cold water chamber 110 is longitudinally spaced from the cold water outlet 114 and / or the hot water inlet 115 by a predetermined distance.

[0165] In some other embodiments, the cold water chamber 110 and the cold water outlet 114 and / or the hot water inlet 115 are spaced apart by a predetermined distance in both the lateral and longitudinal directions.

[0166] The cold water chamber 110 is connected to the cold water outlet 114 via a first cold water connecting pipe of a preset length. The cold water chamber 110 is connected to the hot water inlet 115 via a second cold water connecting pipe of a preset length. By setting the cold water chamber 110 and the cold water outlet 114 and / or the hot water inlet 115 at a preset distance, the valve core 102 in the cold water chamber 110 is kept away from the hot water inlet 115. This prevents the valve core 102 from clogging the valve core inlet due to scale buildup from contact with hot water, which could lead to valve core failure. It also prevents the plastic parts and seals in the valve core 102 from having their service life affected due to proximity to hot water, thus reducing reliability. This improves the reliability of the mixing valve 100 and the accuracy of water temperature regulation.

[0167] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 8 and Figure 9 The water heater 10 may also include a mixing valve 100 and an inner tank 200. The inner tank 200 is used to store water, and a heating rod 204 is installed inside the inner tank 200. The heating rod 204 is used to heat the water inside the inner tank 200.

[0168] Please continue to refer to this. Figures 10 to 13The mixing valve 100 may include a valve body 101 and a valve core 102. The valve body 101 may include a cold water inlet 113, a hot water inlet 115, and a mixing outlet 116. The inlet of the cold water inlet 113 can be connected to a cold water source, allowing cold water from the cold water source to flow into the valve body 101 of the mixing valve 100. The outlet of the cold water inlet 113 is connected to both the inner tank 200 and the mixing outlet 116. Cold water flowing into the valve body 101 via the cold water inlet 113 can flow into both the inner tank 200 and the mixing outlet 116. The hot water inlet 115 connects the inner tank 200 and the mixing outlet 116. The inlet of the hot water inlet 115 is connected to the inner tank 200, and the outlet of the hot water inlet 115 is connected to the mixing outlet 116. Hot water inside the inner tank 200 can flow into the mixing outlet 116 via the hot water inlet 115. The valve core 102 is used to control the mixing ratio of cold water and hot water flowing into the mixing outlet 116. The outlet of the mixing outlet 116 is used to output the mixed water.

[0169] In this embodiment, the terms "inlet" or "outlet" in the hot water inlet 115, cold water inlet 113, and mixing outlet 116 are all relative to the mixing valve 100. "Inlet" means water flowing into the mixing valve 100, and "outlet" means water flowing out of the mixing valve 100. Furthermore, the concept of cold water can be water at the same temperature as tap water, or it can be a relative concept, water that is colder than the water in the hot water inlet 115 (such as water that has been preheated to a temperature higher than tap water but lower than the water in the hot water inlet 115).

[0170] In some embodiments, the inner tank 200 has a lower temperature probe 203. The lower temperature probe 203 is located at the lower part of the inner tank 200 to detect the water temperature at the bottom of the tank. The heating rod 204 can start and / or stop working at least based on the water temperature at the bottom of the tank. In some embodiments, the heating rod 204 is controlled to stop working when the water temperature at the bottom of the tank reaches the target set temperature of the water heater minus a first preset temperature difference. In other embodiments, the heating rod 204 is controlled to start working when the water temperature at the bottom of the tank is lower than or equal to the target set temperature minus a second preset temperature difference. The first preset temperature difference may be less than the second preset temperature difference. In still other embodiments, the heating rod 204 can be controlled to stop working based on the rate of decrease of the water temperature at the bottom of the tank. For example, the heating rod 204 can be controlled to start working when the rate of decrease of the water temperature at the bottom of the tank is greater than a preset rate of decrease.

[0171] In some embodiments, the inner tank 200 has an upper temperature probe 202 and a lower temperature probe 203. The upper temperature probe 202 is located at the top of the inner tank 200 to detect the water temperature at the top of the inner tank. The lower temperature probe 203 is located at the bottom of the inner tank 200 to detect the water temperature at the bottom of the inner tank. The heating rod 204 can start and / or stop working based on the water temperature at the top of the inner tank and / or the water temperature at the bottom of the inner tank. In some embodiments, the heating rod 204 can be controlled to stop working based on both the water temperature at the top of the inner tank and the water temperature at the bottom of the inner tank. For example, the heating rod 204 is controlled to stop working when the water temperature at the top of the inner tank reaches the target set temperature of the water heater and the water temperature at the bottom of the inner tank reaches the target set temperature of the water heater minus a preset temperature difference. In other embodiments, the heating rod 204 can be controlled to start working based on either the water temperature at the top of the inner tank or the water temperature at the bottom of the inner tank. For example, when the water temperature at the top of the inner tank is lower than or equal to the target set temperature minus a first preset temperature difference, or when the water temperature at the bottom of the inner tank is lower than or equal to the target set temperature minus a second preset temperature difference, the heating rod 204 is activated. The first preset temperature difference may be less than the second preset temperature difference. In some other embodiments, the heating rod 204 can be activated based on the rate of temperature decrease at the bottom of the inner tank. For example, when the rate of temperature decrease at the bottom of the inner tank is greater than a preset rate of decrease, the heating rod 204 can be activated.

[0172] The water heater 10 may also include a hot water temperature probe. In some embodiments, the hot water temperature probe may be disposed at the hot water inlet 115 of the mixing valve 100 to directly obtain the hot water temperature of the hot water inlet 115.

[0173] Because the water temperature inside the inner tank 200 exhibits a stratification phenomenon—that is, heated hot water gradually rises to the top of the inner tank 200 while cold water sinks to the bottom—the lower temperature probe 203 is positioned at the bottom of the inner tank 200, ensuring that the water temperature detected by the lower temperature probe 203 is close to the temperature of the cold water flowing into the inner tank 200 via the cold water inlet 113. In other embodiments, the hot water temperature probe can be an upper temperature probe 202. The upper temperature probe 202 is positioned at the top of the inner tank 200 to detect the water temperature at the top of the inner tank. By using the upper temperature probe 202 positioned at the top of the inner tank 200 as a hot water temperature probe, the hot water temperature detected by the hot water temperature probe is close to the temperature of the hot water flowing into the mixing valve 100 via the inlet of the outlet pipe 302, thereby indirectly obtaining the hot water temperature at the hot water inlet.

[0174] When using the mixing valve 100 for pre-adjustment, the hot water temperature of the hot water inlet 115, i.e. the hot water temperature flowing into the mixing outlet 116, can be determined based on the hot water temperature detected by the hot water temperature probe. The cold water temperature of the cold water inlet 113, i.e. the cold water temperature flowing into the mixing outlet 116, can be determined based on the water temperature at the bottom of the tank detected by the lower temperature probe.

[0175] In other words, the water heater in this embodiment can not only control the heating rod 204 to start or stop based on the temperature data obtained by the lower temperature probe 203 of the inner tank or the temperature data obtained by the upper temperature probe 202 and the lower temperature probe 203 of the inner tank, but also reuse the temperature data obtained by the lower temperature probe 203 of the inner tank or the temperature data obtained by the upper temperature probe 202 and the lower temperature probe 203 of the inner tank to reliably pre-adjust the valve core 102 of the mixing valve 100. It is not necessary to set a cold water temperature probe on the valve body 101 of the mixing valve 100 or to set a hot water temperature probe and a cold water temperature probe on the valve body 101 of the mixing valve 100. This can reduce the manufacturing cost of the mixing valve 100, reduce the potential leakage points of the mixing valve 100, thereby reducing the possibility of water leakage of the mixing valve 100 and improving the reliability of the mixing valve 100.

[0176] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 11 and Figure 13 The inlet pipe 301 is connected to the cold water inlet section 113. The inlet pipe 301 is used to input cold water flowing into the valve body 101 via the cold water inlet section 113 into the inner tank 200. The outlet pipe 302 is connected to the hot water inlet section 115. The outlet pipe 302 is used to input hot water from the inner tank 200 into the hot water inlet section 115. Through the inlet pipe 301 and the outlet pipe 302, cold water flowing into the valve body 101 of the mixing valve 100 via the cold water inlet section 113 can be input into the inner tank 200, and hot water from the inner tank 200 can be forced into the hot water pipe and output to the hot water inlet section 115 of the mixing valve 100.

[0177] Typically, the inlet of the outlet pipe 302 is located at the top of the inner tank 200. This is because there is a stratification of water temperature within the inner tank 200; heated hot water gradually rises to the top of the inner tank 200, while cold water sinks to the bottom. By placing the inlet of the outlet pipe 302 at the top of the inner tank 200, hotter water can flow into the outlet pipe 302 and then into the valve body 101 of the mixing valve 100 via the hot water inlet 115.

[0178] In some embodiments of this specification, at least a portion of the lower temperature probe 203 is located within the inner tank 200. The lower temperature probe 203 can be positioned spatially close to the outlet of the water inlet pipe 301 to accurately detect the temperature of the cold water flowing into the inner tank 200 from the cold water inlet section 113, thereby improving the accuracy of the pre-adjustment of the mixing valve 100.

[0179] In the embodiments of this specification, A being spatially close to B means that the spatial distance between A and B is small, for example, the spatial distance between the two is less than a preset distance.

[0180] In some embodiments of this specification, the lower temperature probe 203 is disposed on the outer wall of the inner tank 200. The lower temperature probe 203 is positioned close to the outlet of the water inlet pipe 301 in the height direction. Alternatively, the lower temperature probe 203 is flush with the outlet of the water inlet pipe 301 in the height direction. Since the water temperature inside the inner tank 200 exhibits stratification, positioning the lower temperature probe 203 close to or flush with the outlet of the water inlet pipe 301 in the height direction allows the water temperature detected by the lower temperature probe 203 to be closer to the temperature of the cold water flowing out from the cold water inlet section 113.

[0181] In the embodiments of this specification, "A is closer to B in the height direction" means that the absolute value of the height difference between A and B is less than a preset height difference. That is, A is slightly higher than or slightly lower than B.

[0182] In some embodiments of this specification, the lower temperature probe 203 is positioned above the outlet of the water inlet pipe 301 and closer to the outlet of the water inlet pipe 301 than the upper temperature probe 202. Typically, to detect the heating effect of the heating rod 204 on the water inside the inner tank 200, the lower temperature probe 203 is positioned higher than the heating rod 204 in the height direction. The heating rod 204 is typically positioned higher than or level with the outlet of the water inlet pipe 301 in the height direction. Therefore, the lower temperature probe 203 can be positioned higher than the outlet of the water inlet pipe 301. Based on the water temperature at the bottom of the inner tank detected by the lower temperature probe 203 and the water temperature at the top of the inner tank detected by the upper temperature probe 202, the overall heating status of the water inside the inner tank 200 can be determined, facilitating the control of the heating rod 204's activation and deactivation according to the water heating status within the inner tank 200. In the above embodiments, by setting the lower temperature probe 203 higher than the outlet of the water inlet pipe 301 and closer to the outlet of the water inlet pipe 301 than the upper temperature probe 202, the water temperature detected by the lower temperature probe 203 can not only be used for the constant temperature regulation of the mixing valve 100, but also for controlling the start and stop of the heating rod 204.

[0183] In some embodiments of this specification, at least part of the upper temperature probe 202 is located in the inner tank 200. The upper temperature probe 202 is set close to the inlet of the water outlet pipe 302 to accurately detect the water temperature of the hot water flowing into the mixing valve 100, thereby improving the accuracy of the pre-adjustment of the mixing valve 100.

[0184] In some embodiments of this specification, the upper temperature probe 202 is disposed on the outer wall of the inner tank 200. When the upper temperature probe 202 is disposed on the outer wall of the inner tank 200, it can be positioned close to the inlet of the outlet pipe 302 in the height direction, or flush with the inlet of the outlet pipe 302 in the height direction, to more accurately detect the temperature of the hot water flowing into the mixing valve 100, thereby improving the accuracy of the thermostatic regulation of the mixing valve 100. Furthermore, by disposing the upper temperature probe 202 outside the inner tank 200, the manufacturing process of the inner tank 200 can be simplified, and manufacturing costs reduced.

[0185] Because the water temperature inside the inner tank 200 exhibits a stratification phenomenon—that is, the heated hot water gradually rises to the top of the inner tank 200 while the cold water sinks to the bottom—the upper temperature probe 202 is positioned either close to the inlet of the outlet pipe 302 in the height direction or flush with the inlet of the outlet pipe 302 in the height direction. This ensures that the water temperature detected by the upper temperature probe 202 is close to the temperature of the hot water flowing into the mixing valve 100 through the inlet of the outlet pipe 302.

[0186] In some embodiments of this specification, such as Figure 11 As shown, the water tank 200 may include an upper tank and a lower tank. The upper tank is connected to the lower tank, and the upper tank is located above the lower tank. An upper temperature probe 202 may be installed in the upper tank, and a lower temperature probe 203 may be installed in the lower tank. The lower temperature probe 203 may be positioned higher than the heating rod 204 in the lower tank.

[0187] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to interchangeably. Each embodiment focuses on describing the differences from other embodiments. For details, please refer to the foregoing descriptions of the relevant processing embodiments; they will not be repeated here.

[0188] It should be understood that the above description is for illustrative purposes and not for limitation. Many embodiments and applications beyond the provided examples will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the above description. Therefore, the scope of this specification should not be determined by reference to the above description, but rather by reference to the foregoing claims and the full scope of their equivalents.

[0189] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this specification and is not intended to limit this specification. Various modifications and variations can be made to the embodiments described herein by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this specification should be included within the scope of protection of this specification.

Claims

1. A water pipe assembly for a water heater, characterized in that, The water pipe assembly includes an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe, with at least a portion of the outlet pipe integrated inside the inlet pipe, or at least a portion of the inlet pipe integrated inside the outlet pipe; The water pipe assembly also includes a water-passing device for placing functional materials, and the water-passing device is integrated with the water inlet pipe and / or the water outlet pipe. Water flowing into the water pipe assembly can enter the water heater through the water-passing device and the water inlet pipe, and water in the water heater can flow out through the water outlet pipe. Alternatively, water flowing into the water pipe assembly can flow into the water heater through the water inlet pipe, and water in the water heater can flow out through the water-passing device and the water outlet pipe.

2. The water pipe assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water-passing device is integrated between the water inlet pipe and the water outlet pipe; The water-passing device includes an inner wall and an outer wall spaced at a predetermined distance. At least a portion of the water outlet pipe is located inside the water inlet pipe. The water outlet pipe, the inner wall, the outer wall, and the water inlet pipe are arranged radially from the inside out. or, The water-passing device includes an inner wall and an outer wall spaced at a predetermined distance. The wall of the water inlet pipe is the outer wall. At least part of the water outlet pipe is located inside the water inlet pipe. The water outlet pipe, the inner wall, and the water inlet pipe are arranged radially from the inside to the outside.

3. The water pipe assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The water-passing device also includes an upper sealing part, which is connected to the upper part of the inner wall and the upper part of the outer wall. The upper sealing part is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall and the outer wall from above. The upper sealing part is provided with a first through hole, and the water outlet pipe passes through the first through hole.

4. The water pipe assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first through hole of the upper sealing part is spaced apart from the water outlet pipe. A water blocking part is provided at the upper part of the water inlet pipe. The water blocking part is connected to the water outlet pipe to prevent the water flowing into the water pipe assembly from continuing to flow upward. or, The first through hole of the upper sealing part is connected to the water outlet pipe and is used to block the water flowing into the water pipe assembly so that the water flowing into the water pipe assembly flows to the water passing device; or, The upper part of the inner wall and / or the outer wall is provided with a water-blocking part, which is connected to the water outlet pipe and is used to block the water flowing into the water pipe assembly so that the water flowing into the water pipe assembly flows into the water-passing device.

5. The water pipe assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The water-passing device further includes a lower sealing part, which is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall and the outer wall from below. The lower sealing part is connected to the lower part of the outer wall. The lower sealing part is provided with a second through hole, through which the inner wall passes. The second through hole is either gap-sealed or contact-sealed with the inner wall.

6. The water pipe assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The water-passing device further includes a lower sealing part, which is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall and the outer wall from below. The lower sealing part is connected to the lower part of the inner wall and the lower part of the outer wall. The lower sealing part is provided with a second through hole, and the water outlet pipe passes through the second through hole.

7. The water pipe assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The water-passing device includes an inner wall and an outer wall. At least a portion of the water outlet pipe is located inside the water inlet pipe. The water outlet pipe, the inner wall, the outer wall, and the water inlet pipe are arranged radially from the inside to the outside. The water-passing device is detachably connected to the water inlet pipe and / or the water outlet pipe so as to be detachably removed from the gap between the water outlet pipe and the water inlet pipe.

8. The water pipe assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The water-passing device includes an inner wall and an outer wall. At least part of the water outlet pipe is located inside the water inlet pipe. The water outlet pipe, the inner wall, the outer wall, and the water inlet pipe are arranged radially from the inside to the outside. The water inlet pipe is provided with a limiting structure inward. The limiting structure is used to radially limit the outer wall.

9. The water pipe assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The water pipe assembly also includes a support member disposed below the water-passing device to support the lower part of the water-passing device. The support member is detachably and sealingly connected to the water inlet pipe or non-detachably and sealingly connected to it.

10. The water pipe assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The lower part of the water-passing device is provided with a lower sealing part, which is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall and the outer wall from below, and the support member is used to support the lower sealing part; The lower sealing part is provided with a second through hole, and the water outlet pipe or the inner wall passes through the second through hole.

11. The water pipe assembly according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, The support also includes a radially extending first limiting portion, which is located on the outside of the water outlet pipe or the inner wall and is used to limit the water outlet pipe or the inner wall.

12. The water pipe assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The water inlet pipe also includes a stop, which is disposed above the water-passing device to block the upper part of the water-passing device.

13. The water pipe assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, The outer edge of the stop member is sealed to the peripheral wall of the inlet pipe, and the inner edge of the stop member is sealed to the peripheral wall of the outlet pipe.

14. The water pipe assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, The water-passing device also includes an upper sealing part, which is connected to the upper part of the inner wall and the upper part of the outer wall. The upper sealing part is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall and the outer wall from above. The upper sealing part is provided with a first through hole, and the water outlet pipe passes through the first through hole; The upper part of the upper sealing part is provided with a second limiting part, which is used to abut against the stop member.

15. The water pipe assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that, There is a predetermined interval between the first through hole of the upper sealing part and the water outlet pipe; When the second limiting part is in position abutting against the stop member, there is a water supply channel between the upper sealing part and the stop member, or the second limiting part is provided with a water supply channel, or the stop member is provided with a water supply channel.

16. The water pipe assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water-passing device is detachably or non-detachably integrated between the water inlet pipe and the water outlet pipe, or the water-passing device is detachably or non-detachably integrated on the outside or inside of the water inlet pipe, or the water-passing device is detachably or non-detachably integrated on the outside or inside of the water outlet pipe. The functional materials include scale inhibitors and / or bactericidal and / or purifying materials.

17. The water pipe assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The inner wall includes a first wire mesh, and the outer wall includes a second wire mesh; or, The inner wall includes a first wire mesh and a non-porous inner wall connected together, the non-porous inner wall being at least partially located below the first wire mesh.

18. The water pipe assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The water-passing device further includes a lower sealing part, which is used to seal the functional material located between the inner wall and the outer wall from below. The lower sealing part is connected to the lower part of the outer wall. The lower sealing part is provided with a second through hole, and the inner wall passes through the second through hole. The second through hole is either gap-sealed or contact-sealed with the inner wall. The inner wall includes a perforated inner wall and a non-perforated inner wall connected together, the non-perforated inner wall being at least partially located below the perforated inner wall, and the non-perforated inner wall having a second through hole.

19. The water pipe assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first through hole of the upper sealing part is spaced apart from the water outlet pipe. A water blocking part is provided at the upper part of the water inlet pipe. The water blocking part is connected to the water outlet pipe to prevent the water flowing into the water pipe assembly from continuing to flow upward. There is a bypass channel between the water-blocking part and the upper sealing part, which allows water to enter the water heater without passing through the water-passing device.

20. A water heater, characterized in that, The water heater includes a water pipe assembly as described in any one of claims 1 to 19.

21. The water heater according to claim 20, characterized in that, The water heater also includes an inner tank. The inner tank is used to store water, and an opening is provided on the inner tank for the water pipe assembly to pass through.

22. The water heater according to claim 21, characterized in that, The water heater also includes a mixing valve. The mixing valve includes a valve body and a valve core; The valve body includes a cold water inlet, a cold water chamber, a first cold water connection, a second cold water connection, a cold water outlet, a hot water inlet, and a mixing water outlet; the cold water inlet is connected to the cold water chamber; the hot water inlet and the cold water outlet are connected to the inner tank of the water heater through a port on the inner tank; the valve core is disposed in the cold water chamber; the valve core is used to divert water entering the cold water chamber to the first cold water connection and the second cold water connection; the first cold water connection is used to connect the cold water chamber and the cold water outlet, and the cold water outlet is used for... The system allows cold water to flow into the inner tank of the water heater through one of the openings on the inner tank; the second cold water connecting part connects the cold water cavity with the mixing water outlet; the hot water inlet part allows hot water in the inner tank of the water heater to flow into the mixing water outlet through one of the openings on the inner tank; the inlet of the mixing water outlet is connected to the second cold water connecting part and the hot water inlet part; the outlet of the mixing water outlet is used to output the mixed water; at least a portion of the hot water inlet part is located inside the cold water outlet part, or at least a portion of the cold water outlet part is located inside the hot water inlet part. At least a portion of the water pipe assembly is disposed in the inner tank. The water pipe assembly is used to input cold water from the cold water outlet into the inner tank and to input hot water from the inner tank into the hot water inlet.

23. The water heater according to claim 22, characterized in that, The cold water chamber is provided with a cold water inlet, a first cold water outlet and a second cold water outlet; the cold water inlet is connected to the cold water inlet section, the first cold water outlet is connected to the first cold water connecting section, and the second cold water outlet is connected to the second cold water connecting section. The first cold water outlet, the second cold water outlet, and the cold water inlet are located on the same surface of the cold water cavity; The same surface refers to the surface of the cold water cavity facing the cold water outlet and the mixed water outlet.

24. The water heater according to claim 23, characterized in that, The valve core includes a moving valve plate and a fixed valve plate. The fixed valve plate is provided with a first cold water outlet and a second cold water outlet. The first cold water outlet is used to connect with the first cold water outlet, and the second cold water outlet is used to connect with the second cold water outlet. The moving valve plate is used to control the connection relationship between the cold water inlet and the first and second cold water outlets.

25. The water heater according to claim 23, characterized in that, The first cold water outlet and the second cold water outlet at least partially overlap in the lateral direction, or the first cold water outlet and the second cold water outlet do not overlap in the lateral direction but the lateral distance is less than the first preset distance; And / or, The first cold water connection and the second cold water connection have the same extension direction. And / or, The first cold water connection part includes a first cold water connection pipe, and the second cold water connection part includes a second cold water connection pipe. The first cold water connection pipe and the second cold water connection pipe are arranged in parallel.

26. The water heater according to claim 22, characterized in that, The first cold water connection is higher than the second cold water connection; the first cold water connection extends from the cold water cavity towards the cold water outlet; the second cold water connection extends from the cold water cavity towards the mixed water outlet. The cold water flow channels in the cold water outlet section and the cold water flow channels in the second cold water connecting section do not intersect.

27. The water heater according to claim 22, characterized in that, The cold water chamber and the cold water outlet and / or the hot water inlet are separated by a preset distance in the horizontal and / or vertical directions to be set independently of each other; The first cold water connection part has a first cold water connection pipe of a preset length, which is used to connect the cold water cavity and the cold water outlet; the second cold water connection part has a second cold water connection pipe of a preset length, which is used to connect the cold water cavity and the mixed water outlet.

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