Valve group structure, heat exchange system and water heater

Abstract

The utility model discloses a valve group structure, heat exchange system and water heater relates to water heater technical field. Among them, valve group structure includes first valve body, second valve body and water replenishing control subassembly, and first valve body is equipped with cold water import, cold water export and the water inlet channel of intercommunication cold water import and cold water export, second valve body is connected with first valve body, and second valve body is equipped with hot water import, hot water export and the water outlet channel of intercommunication hot water import and hot water export, and water replenishing control subassembly is connected in first valve body, and is equipped with water replenishing mouth, and water replenishing control subassembly is configured to make water inlet channel and water replenishing mouth lead through or block. The utility model technical scheme can improve water heater water route arrangement compactness, reduce the space occupied, be favorable to realize the miniaturization of water heater's volume.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of water heater technology, and in particular to a valve assembly structure, heat exchange system and water heater. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional storage-type water heaters typically heat the water in the inner tank with a heater and then supply it directly to the user. This method has problems such as the large volume of the inner tank, which takes up a lot of space, and the ease with which bacteria can grow.

[0003] In related technologies, heat exchangers with independent flow channels are used to prevent direct contact between the water supply path and the water in the inner tank, thus achieving the function of heating running water for use. However, this solution requires the installation of various pipes and control valves, which are distributed in a relatively dispersed manner, resulting in a large overall space occupied by the water heater. Utility Model Content

[0004] The main purpose of this utility model is to propose a valve group structure that aims to improve the compactness of the water circuit layout, reduce the space occupied, and facilitate the miniaturization of water heaters.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the valve assembly structure proposed in this utility model includes:

[0006] The first valve body is provided with a cold water inlet, a cold water outlet, and a water inlet channel connecting the cold water inlet and the cold water outlet;

[0007] A second valve body, connected to the first valve body, is provided with a hot water inlet, a hot water outlet, and a water outlet channel connecting the hot water inlet and the hot water outlet; and

[0008] A water replenishment control component is connected to the first valve body and has a water replenishment port. The water replenishment control component is configured to connect or block the water inlet channel from the water replenishment port.

[0009] In one embodiment of this application, both the first valve body and the second valve body extend along a first direction.

[0010] In one embodiment of this application, the valve assembly structure further includes a bypass pipe connecting the first valve body and the second valve body, and the bypass pipe has a bypass channel inside that connects the inlet channel and the outlet channel; the bypass pipe is provided with a constant temperature control component for adjusting the flow rate of the bypass channel.

[0011] In one embodiment of this application, the bypass pipe extends along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0012] In one embodiment of this application, the constant temperature control component and the water replenishment control component are located on the same side of the valve group structure in a third direction, wherein the third direction is perpendicular to both the second direction and the first direction.

[0013] In one embodiment of this application, the first valve body, the second valve body, and the bypass pipe are an integral structure.

[0014] In one embodiment of this application, the cold water inlet and the hot water outlet are located at the same end in a first direction; the length of the first valve body in the first direction is greater than the length of the second valve body in the first direction.

[0015] In one embodiment of this application, the water replenishment control component includes:

[0016] A water supply pipe is provided with the water supply port and is connected to the water inlet channel;

[0017] A solenoid valve, located on the water supply pipe, is used to control the on / off state of the water supply pipe; and

[0018] A one-way valve is provided on the water supply pipe and located downstream of the solenoid valve, for unidirectionally guiding the water inlet channel to the water supply port.

[0019] To achieve the above objectives, this application also provides a heat exchange system, comprising:

[0020] A heat exchanger having a first flow channel and a second flow channel connected in a heat exchange manner, the first flow channel having a first inlet and a first outlet, and the second flow channel having a second inlet and a second outlet, both the first inlet and the first outlet being used to communicate with the water tank; and

[0021] The valve assembly structure includes an inlet channel, an outlet channel, a cold water inlet, a hot water outlet, and a water replenishment control component. The inlet channel connects the cold water inlet to the second inlet, and the outlet channel connects the second outlet to the hot water outlet. The water replenishment control component is connected to the inlet channel and has a water replenishment port for connecting to the water tank. The water replenishment control component is configured to either connect or block the inlet channel from the water replenishment port.

[0022] In one embodiment of this application, the water replenishment control component is at least partially located in the lower region of the heat exchanger.

[0023] In one embodiment of this application, the water replenishment control component is disposed opposite to the lower surface of the heat exchanger.

[0024] In one embodiment of this application, the valve assembly structure includes a valve seat disposed on one side of the heat exchanger, and both the inlet water channel and the outlet water channel are formed in the valve seat;

[0025] The valve seat protrudes from the lower surface of the heat exchanger, and the water supply control component is connected to the portion of the valve seat that protrudes from the lower surface of the heat exchanger.

[0026] In one embodiment of this application, the heat exchanger is a plate heat exchanger; the first inlet and the first outlet, the second inlet and the second outlet, and the valve seat are located on one side of the thickness direction of the heat exchanger.

[0027] In one embodiment of this application, the first inlet and the first outlet are located at opposite corners of the heat exchanger sidewall, and the second inlet and the second outlet are located at another opposite corner of the heat exchanger sidewall, wherein the second inlet is located above the first inlet and the first outlet is located above the second outlet.

[0028] The water inlet channel extends from below the heat exchanger to connect with the second inlet. The water replenishment control component is connected to the portion of the water inlet channel located below the heat exchanger and is located on the side of the water inlet channel close to the heat exchanger.

[0029] In one embodiment of this application, the valve assembly structure further includes a first connecting pipe disposed at the first inlet, the outer wall of the first connecting pipe being fixedly connected to the valve seat, and the inner cavity of the first connecting pipe being used to connect the first flow channel and the water tank.

[0030] In one embodiment of this application, the water replenishment control component includes:

[0031] A water supply pipe is provided with the water supply port and is connected to the water inlet channel;

[0032] A solenoid valve, located on the water supply pipe, is used to control the on / off state of the water supply pipe; and

[0033] A one-way valve is provided on the water supply pipe and located downstream of the solenoid valve, for unidirectionally guiding the water inlet channel to the water supply port.

[0034] In one embodiment of this application, the valve assembly structure further includes a bypass channel and a constant temperature control component disposed in the bypass channel. The bypass channel connects the inlet channel and the outlet channel, and the constant temperature control component is used to adjust the flow rate of the bypass pipe.

[0035] In one embodiment of this application, the temperature control component is at least partially located in the lower region of the heat exchanger.

[0036] In one embodiment of this application, the constant temperature control component is located directly below the heat exchanger.

[0037] In one embodiment of this application, the inlet channel and the outlet channel are arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart along the height direction of the heat exchanger, and the bypass channel is perpendicularly connected to the inlet channel and the outlet channel.

[0038] To achieve the above objectives, this application also provides a water heater, comprising:

[0039] Water tank;

[0040] A heater for heating the water in the water tank; and

[0041] The aforementioned heat exchange system is located on one side of the water tank in the width direction; the first flow channel forms a circulation loop with the inner cavity of the water tank, and the water inlet is connected to the water tank or the first inlet through a pipe.

[0042] In one embodiment of this application, one side of the heat exchanger is installed on the side wall of the water tank, and the valve assembly structure is located on the side of the heat exchanger opposite to the water tank.

[0043] In one embodiment of this application, the water tank is provided with an inlet pipe assembly and an outlet pipe assembly, the inlet pipe assembly being located in the upper region of the water tank and the outlet pipe assembly being located in the lower region of the water tank;

[0044] In the vertical direction, the heat exchanger is located between the outlet pipe assembly and the inlet pipe assembly, the first inlet is located below the heat exchanger, and the first outlet is located above the heat exchanger.

[0045] In the valve assembly structure of this utility model, the first valve body for cold water inlet, the second valve body for hot water outlet, and the water replenishment control component for replenishing water to the water tank of the water heater are integrated together, integrating the functions of water inlet, water outlet, and water replenishment. This can eliminate the redundant space occupied by scattered pipelines and independent valves in related technologies, improve the compactness of the internal structural layout of the water heater, reduce the space occupied, and help to achieve the miniaturization of the overall size of the water heater. Attached Figure Description

[0046] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0047] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the valve assembly structure in an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0048] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Full sectional view of the embodiment;

[0049] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the heat exchange system of this utility model;

[0050] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Side view of the embodiment;

[0051] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchange system of this utility model from another perspective;

[0052] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchanger in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the water circuit structure of the water heater in the water usage mode of this utility model;

[0054] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the water circuit structure in the water replenishment mode of the water heater of this utility model.

[0055] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0056] label name label name 100 heat exchange system 211 Inlet channel 1 heat exchanger 212 Water outlet channel 101 First import 213 Bypass channel 102 First Exit 22 Water replenishment control components 103 Second import 221 water supply pipe 104 Second Exit 222 Solenoid valve 2 Valve assembly structure 223 one-way valve 201 Cold water inlet 23 Thermostatic control components 202 hot water outlet 24 First connecting pipe 203 Water inlet 25 Second connecting pipe 204 Cold water outlet 3 Water flow sensor 205 hot water inlet 200 water tank 21 valve seat 300 Drive components 21A First valve body 400 heater 21B Second valve body 510 Inlet pipe assembly 21C Bypass pipe 520 Water outlet pipe assembly

[0057] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this utility model will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0058] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0059] It should be noted that if the embodiments of this utility model involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.

[0060] Meanwhile, the meaning of "and / or" or "and / or" appearing throughout the text is that it includes three options. Taking "A and / or B" as an example, it includes option A, option B, or an option that satisfies both A and B.

[0061] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this utility model involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, features defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. If the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model.

[0062] Traditional storage-type water heaters typically heat the water in the inner tank with a heater and then supply it directly to the user. However, this method has problems such as the large volume of the inner tank, which takes up a lot of space, and the ease with which bacteria can grow.

[0063] In related technologies, heat exchange electric water heaters using heat exchange tubes arranged inside the inner tank achieve the application of hot water heating, preventing direct contact between the water supply path and the water stored in the inner tank, thus improving water quality. However, arranging heat exchange tubes inside the inner tank is difficult to install and fix, and requires the installation of various pipes and control valves. These control valves and pipes are distributed relatively widely; for example, each pipe is connected to the heat exchanger separately, and each control valve is located in a separate flow channel, resulting in a large space occupation and an increase in the overall size of the water heater.

[0064] Therefore, this utility model proposes a valve assembly structure 2 for use in water heaters. The aim is to integrate the related pipelines and control valve structure connected to the heat exchanger 1 into a single valve assembly structure 2. By directly assembling the integrated valve assembly structure 2 with the heat exchanger 1, the overall structural layout can be simplified, the space occupied within the water heater can be reduced, and the size of the water heater can be miniaturized. The following mainly uses the application of this valve assembly structure 2 in a water heater as an example for explanation. The water heater is a heat exchange type water heater, with a water tank 200 having a water tank 200 inlet and a water tank 200 outlet, and the heat exchanger 1 having a water supply path. For ease of explanation of position and direction, the installation state of the water heater mounted on a wall surface (e.g., a wall) is taken as an example. The height direction of the water heater is the direction extending upwards along the wall surface, the width direction of the water heater is the left-right direction when facing the wall surface, and the thickness direction of the water heater is the normal direction of the wall surface. For ease of explanation of location and direction, when this valve assembly structure 2 is installed in a water heater, the first direction can be the height direction of the water heater, the second direction can be the thickness direction of the water heater, and the third direction can be the width direction of the water heater.

[0065] like Figures 1 to 3 as well as Figure 7As shown, the valve assembly structure 2 includes a first valve body 21A, a second valve body 21B, and a water replenishment control component 22. The first valve body 21A is provided with a cold water inlet 201, a cold water outlet 204, and a water inlet channel 211 connecting the cold water inlet 201 and the cold water outlet 204. The second valve body 21B is connected to the first valve body 21A and is provided with a hot water inlet 205, a hot water outlet 202, and a water outlet channel 212 connecting the hot water inlet 205 and the hot water outlet 202. The water replenishment control component 22 is connected to the first valve body 21A and is provided with a water replenishment port 203. The water replenishment control component 22 is configured to connect or block the water inlet channel 211 and the water replenishment port 203.

[0066] In this embodiment, the first valve body 21A corresponds to the cold water inlet pipe. The cold water inlet 201 of the inlet channel 211 is used to connect to a cold water pipe (such as a tap water pipe), and the cold water outlet 204 of the inlet channel 211 is used to connect to the inlet end of the water circuit in the heat exchanger 1. The second valve body 21B corresponds to the hot water outlet pipe. The hot water inlet 205 of the outlet channel 212 is used to connect to the outlet end of the water circuit in the heat exchanger 1, and the hot water outlet 202 of the outlet channel 212 is used to connect to a water terminal (such as a shower head, faucet, etc.). By connecting the first valve body 21A and the second valve body 21B, the cold water inlet pipe and the hot water outlet pipe are integrated together, improving the structural compactness. It can be understood that the first valve body 21A and the second valve body 21B can be an integrally molded structure or a separate fixed connection structure, which can be achieved by injection molding or machining. To facilitate pipe connection operation, the cold water inlet 201 can optionally adopt a quick-connect interface, and the hot water outlet 202 can optionally adopt a quick-connect interface. In practical applications, the cold water outlet 204 can be welded or clipped to the inlet end of the water circuit of the heat exchanger 1; the hot water inlet 205 can be welded or clipped to the outlet end of the water circuit of the heat exchanger 1.

[0067] The water replenishment control component 22 is connected to the first valve body 21A. Its purpose is to control the opening and closing of the water inlet channel 211 and the water replenishment port 203, so as to realize the switching between the water use mode and the water replenishment mode of the water heater: In the water use mode, the water replenishment control component 22 blocks the water inlet channel 211 and the water replenishment port 203. The water flowing into the water inlet channel 211 from the cold water inlet 201 can enter the water circuit of the heat exchanger 1 from the cold water outlet 204 for heat exchange, and then enter the water outlet channel 212 from the hot water inlet 205 and flow out from the hot water outlet 202 to the water terminal for use; When water replenishment is required, the water terminal is closed, and the water replenishment control component 22 opens the water inlet channel 211 and the water replenishment port 203, so that the water flowing into the cold water inlet 201 enters the water tank 200 for water replenishment. This valve assembly structure 2 integrates the functional modules for controlling water flow and replenishing water. In application, it is only necessary to directly install the valve assembly structure 2 with the corresponding interface in the heat exchanger 1, so that the water replenishment control component 22, the water flow channel and the heat exchanger 1 form a compact layout.

[0068] Understandably, the water replenishment control component 22 can be a control structure located inside the water inlet channel 211. In this case, the water inlet 203 can be formed on the side wall of the water inlet channel 211. Thus, the water replenishment control component 22 can switch between the water replenishment mode and the water usage mode by opening or closing the water inlet 203. Alternatively, the water replenishment control component 22 can be located on a branch of the water inlet channel 211. In this case, the water replenishment control component 22 can switch between the water replenishment mode and the water usage mode by controlling the opening and closing of the branch. In practical applications, a three-way structure or a bypass channel can be used to avoid the space occupation caused by the independent water replenishment pipe 221. Optionally, the water inlet 203 can be a quick-connect interface.

[0069] In summary, the valve assembly structure 2 of this utility model integrates the first valve body 21A for cold water inlet, the second valve body 21B for hot water outlet, and the water replenishment control component 22 for replenishing water to the water tank 200 of the water heater. This integrates the functions of water inlet, water outlet, and water replenishment, which can eliminate the redundant space occupied by scattered pipelines and independent valves in related technologies, improve the compactness of the internal structural layout of the water heater, reduce the space occupied, and facilitate the miniaturization of the overall size of the water heater.

[0070] Please see Figures 1 to 3 as well as Figure 7 In one embodiment of this application, the water replenishment control component 22 includes a water replenishment pipe 221, a solenoid valve 222, and a one-way valve 223. The water replenishment pipe 221 is provided with a water replenishment port 203 and is connected to the water inlet channel 211. The solenoid valve 222 is provided on the water replenishment pipe 221 and is used to control the opening and closing of the water replenishment pipe 221. The one-way valve 223 is provided on the water replenishment pipe 221 and is located downstream of the solenoid valve 222, and is used to unidirectionally guide the water inlet channel 211 to the water replenishment port 203.

[0071] This embodiment illustrates the specific structure of the water replenishment control component 22. Through the combined action of the solenoid valve 222 and the one-way valve 223, water in the water tank 200 is prevented from flowing into the inlet channel 211 during water replenishment mode. Specifically, the water replenishment pipe 221 is connected to the inlet channel 211, essentially serving as a bypass branch. Both the solenoid valve 222 and the one-way valve 223 are located on the water replenishment pipe 221, with the one-way valve 223 downstream of the solenoid valve 222. The solenoid valve 222 controls the flow of water through the water replenishment pipe 221, while the one-way valve 223, when the solenoid valve 222 is open, unidirectionally guides the water flow from the inlet channel 211 to the water inlet 203, preventing cross-contamination. Optionally, the solenoid valve 222 can be a normally closed solenoid valve, closed during normal water use and open when the water tank 200 needs replenishment. This design provides better protection against cross-contamination compared to a water supply valve that uses only a single control valve to control the on / off state.

[0072] To further improve the compactness of the layout, please refer to Figures 1 to 3 In one embodiment of this application, both the first valve body 21A and the second valve body 21B extend along a first direction. This design makes the shape of the valve assembly structure 2 more regular, reduces its size in other directions, and improves installation adaptability. When this valve assembly structure 2 is applied to a water heater, both the first valve body 21A and the second valve body 21B can be arranged along the height direction of the water heater, thus making full use of the height space of the water heater and reducing the width of the water heater.

[0073] Please see Figures 1 to 3 In one embodiment of this application, the valve assembly structure 2 further includes a bypass pipe 21C connecting the first valve body 21A and the second valve body 21B. The bypass pipe 21C has a bypass channel 213 that connects the inlet channel 211 and the outlet channel 212. The bypass pipe 21C is provided with a constant temperature control component 23 for adjusting the flow rate of the bypass channel 213.

[0074] By setting a bypass channel 213 connecting the inlet channel 211 and the outlet channel 212, cold water from the inlet channel 211 can mix with hot water from the outlet channel 212, preventing the water flowing out of the hot water outlet 202 of the outlet channel 212 from becoming too hot, thus making the water temperature more comfortable. Specifically, a thermostatic control component 23 is provided on the bypass channel 213, which can adjust the flow rate of the bypass channel 213, that is, adjust the amount of cold water mixed into the outlet channel 212, improving the user's water comfort. Optionally, the thermostatic control component 23 can be a proportional valve, which is equipped with a stepper motor for adjustment, resulting in higher adjustment accuracy. Optionally, the bypass pipe 21C can be integrated with the first valve body 21A and / or the second valve body 21B. When the bypass pipe 21C is integrated with one of the first valve body 21A and the second valve body 21B, the port of the bypass pipe 21C can be connected to the other of the first valve body 21A and the second valve body 21B by means of a pipe insertion.

[0075] Further, please refer to Figures 1 to 3 The bypass pipe 21C extends along the second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0076] This design, with the first valve body 21A, second valve body 21B, and bypass pipe 21C forming an approximate "H" shape, reduces the length of the bypass pipe 21C. This allows cold water in the inlet channel 211 to be quickly transported to the outlet channel 212 via a shorter bypass channel 213 to mix with the hot water in the outlet channel 212, thus ensuring a faster bypass response speed and a more accurate bypass ratio. Furthermore, the shortened bypass channel 213 improves the structural stability of the entire valve seat 21, preventing deformation of the bypass channel 213 after prolonged use, which could negatively impact the bypass ratio and bypass response speed. When this valve assembly structure 2 is applied to a water heater, the first valve body 21A and second valve body 21B extend along the height direction of the water heater, and the bypass pipe 21C extends along the thickness direction of the water heater. This arrangement reduces the width of the water heater.

[0077] Further, please refer to Figures 1 to 3 The thermostatic control component 23 and the water supply control component 22 are located on the same side of the valve assembly structure 2 in the third direction, wherein the third direction is perpendicular to both the second and first directions. It is understood that when applied to a water heater, the third direction can be the width direction of the water heater. Compared to separating the thermostatic control component 23 and the water supply control component 22 on opposite sides of the valve body, this embodiment can fully utilize the height space and further reduce the width dimension.

[0078] In one embodiment of this application, please refer to Figures 1 to 3 as well as Figure 7 The cold water inlet 201 and the hot water outlet 202 are located at the same end in the first direction; the length of the first valve body 21A in the first direction is greater than the length of the second valve body 21B in the first direction.

[0079] Understandably, when this valve assembly structure 2 is applied to a water heater, the cold water inlet 201 and the hot water outlet 202 can both be located at the bottom of the water heater. When the water heater is installed on a wall, the cold water inlet 201 and the hot water outlet 202 are more convenient to connect to the corresponding cold water inlet and outlet pipes, improving assembly efficiency. The length of the first valve body 21A in the first direction is greater than the length of the second valve body 21B in the first direction. Understandably, the cold water outlet 204 is located above the hot water inlet 205, which can be adapted to the inlet and outlet ends of the water circuit of the heat exchanger 1.

[0080] In one embodiment of this application, please refer to Figures 1 to 3The valve assembly structure 2 also includes a first connecting pipe 24, the outer wall of which is fixedly connected to the first valve body 21A, and the inner cavity of the first connecting pipe 24 is not connected to the water inlet channel 211. This design serves two purposes: firstly, it strengthens the support of the first valve body 21A, improving the reliability of the valve assembly structure 2; secondly, it ensures the isolation between the inner cavity of the first connecting pipe 24 and the water inlet channel 211, preventing cross-flow between the circulating water circuit and the water usage circuit of the water tank 200.

[0081] like Figures 4 to 7 As shown, this application also provides a heat exchange system 100, including a heat exchanger 1 and a valve assembly structure 2.

[0082] The heat exchanger 1 has a first flow channel and a second flow channel connected in heat exchange. The first flow channel has a first inlet 101 and a first outlet 102, and the second flow channel has a second inlet 103 and a second outlet 104. The first inlet 101 is used to communicate with the outlet of the water tank 200, and the first outlet 102 is used to communicate with the inlet of the water tank 200. The valve group structure 2 has an inlet flow channel 211, an outlet flow channel 212, a cold water inlet 201, a hot water outlet 202, and a water replenishment control component 22. The inlet flow channel 211 connects the cold water inlet 201 and the second inlet 103, and the outlet flow channel 212 connects the second outlet 104 and the hot water outlet 202. The water replenishment control component 22 is connected to the inlet flow channel 211 and has a water replenishment port 203 for communicating with the water tank 200. The water replenishment control component 22 is configured to connect or block the inlet flow channel 211 and the water replenishment port 203.

[0083] In this embodiment, the heat exchanger 1 is externally placed in the water tank 200 of the water heater. The first flow channel inside the heat exchanger 1 is connected to the inner cavity of the water tank 200 to form a water circulation loop inside the water tank 200. The second inlet 103 of the second flow channel inside the heat exchanger 1 is connected to the inlet flow channel 211 of the valve seat 21, and the second outlet 104 is connected to the outlet flow channel 212 of the valve seat 21. The cold water inlet 201 of the inlet flow channel 211 is used to connect to a cold water inlet pipe (e.g., a tap water pipe), and the hot water outlet 202 of the outlet flow channel 212 is used to connect to a water terminal (e.g., a shower head, a faucet, etc.). That is, the second flow channel in the heat exchanger 1 is part of the water supply path. Thus, the water supply path and the water in the water tank 200 do not directly contact each other for heat exchange, realizing the function of heating and using fresh water. Compared with directly using water that has been heated multiple times in the water tank 200, the water quality is effectively improved. Optionally, the heat exchanger 1 can be a plate heat exchanger 1 or a shell-and-tube heat exchanger 1, and the first and second flow channels inside can form a heat conduction interface through metal plates or tube walls. The connection between the first flow channel and the water tank 200 can be achieved by flange connection, threaded interface or quick coupling, etc., to reduce the dispersed layout of external circulation pipelines.

[0084] The valve assembly structure 2 has an inlet channel 211 connected to the second inlet 103 and an outlet channel 212 connected to the second outlet 104. The water replenishment control component 22 is connected to the inlet channel 211 and is used to control the opening and closing of the inlet channel 211 and the water replenishment port 203 to realize the switching between the water use mode and the water replenishment mode of the water heater: When in the water use mode, the water replenishment control component 22 blocks the inlet channel 211 and the water replenishment port 203. The hot water in the water tank 200 enters the first channel through the first inlet 101, exchanges heat with the cold water in the second channel, and then returns to the water tank 200 from the first outlet 102. The cold water flowing in from the cold water inlet 201 can flow through the second channel and exchange heat with the hot water in the first channel before flowing out from the hot water outlet 202 to the water terminal for use. In water replenishment mode, the water terminal is closed, and the water replenishment control component 22 connects the inlet channel 211 and the water replenishment port 203, allowing water flowing in from the cold water inlet 201 to enter the water tank 200 for replenishment. It is understood that this valve assembly structure 2 integrates the functions of controlling water flow and replenishing water. In application, it is only necessary to directly install the valve assembly structure 2 onto the corresponding interface in the heat exchanger 1, resulting in a compact layout of the water replenishment control component 22, the water flow channel, and the heat exchanger 1. Optionally, the cold water inlet 201 can use a quick-connect interface; optionally, the hot water outlet 202 can use a quick-connect interface.

[0085] The water replenishment control component 22 is installed at the water inlet channel 211. Its purpose is to control the opening and closing of the water inlet channel 211 and the water inlet 203. It can be understood that the water replenishment control component 22 can be a control structure located inside the water inlet channel 211, in which case the water inlet 203 can be formed on the side wall of the water inlet channel 211. Thus, the water replenishment control component 22 can switch between water replenishment mode and water usage mode by opening or closing the water inlet 203. Alternatively, the water replenishment control component 22 can be located on a branch of the water inlet channel 211. In this case, the water replenishment control component 22 can switch between water replenishment mode and water usage mode by controlling the opening and closing of the branch. In practical applications, a three-way structure or a bypass channel can be used to avoid the space occupation caused by an independent water replenishment pipe 221. Optionally, the water inlet 203 can be an external interface.

[0086] In this embodiment, the water replenishment control component 22 is located at least partially in the lower region of the heat exchanger 1, which can effectively utilize the space below the heat exchanger 1 and reduce the overall lateral dimension of the heat exchange system 100 to a certain extent, making the overall structure of the heat exchange system 100 more compact and the overall volume smaller.

[0087] In summary, in the heat exchange system 100 of this utility model, the functional modules of the heat exchanger 1 and the valve group structure 2 are arranged in a centralized manner. The valve group structure 2 integrates the functions of water inlet, water outlet and water replenishment, which can eliminate the redundant space occupied by the scattered pipelines and independent valves in related technologies, and improve the structural layout compactness of the heat exchange system 100. In addition, the water replenishment control component 22 is located at least partially in the lower area of ​​the heat exchanger 1, which can reduce the overall lateral size and reduce the space occupied, which is conducive to realizing the miniaturization of the overall size of the water heater.

[0088] Please see Figure 5 In one embodiment of this application, the water replenishment control component 22 is disposed opposite to the lower surface of the heat exchanger 1.

[0089] In this embodiment, by placing the water replenishment control component 22 below the heat exchanger 1, the space below the heat exchanger 1 is fully utilized, and the size of the water replenishment control component 22 protruding from the heat exchanger 1 in the lateral direction is reduced, thereby shortening the lateral dimension of the heat exchange system 100, reducing the overall lateral dimension, and thus reducing the lateral space occupied.

[0090] Please see Figures 4 to 6 In one embodiment of this application, the valve assembly structure 2 includes a valve seat 21 disposed on one side of the heat exchanger 1, and an inlet water channel 211 and an outlet water channel 212 are both formed on the valve seat 21; the valve seat 21 is partially protruding from the lower surface of the heat exchanger 1, and the water replenishment control assembly 22 is connected to the part of the valve seat 21 that protrudes from the lower surface of the heat exchanger 1.

[0091] Understandably, the water tank 200 is roughly rectangular in shape, with the water tank inlet and outlet located on the side of the water tank 200 in the width direction. In order to facilitate connection with the water tank inlet and outlet, the heat exchanger 1 can be located on one side of the water tank 200 in the width direction, thereby reducing the height of the water heater and shortening the connection path between the heat exchanger 1 and the water tank 200, thus improving compactness.

[0092] In this embodiment, by placing the valve seat 21 on the side of the heat exchanger 1, the lateral side space of the heat exchanger 1 can be effectively utilized. By partially protruding the valve seat 21 from the lower surface of the heat exchanger 1, it is convenient to install the water supply control assembly 22. The water supply control assembly 22 is installed on the side of the valve seat 21 closest to the heat exchanger 1, so that the water supply control assembly 22 protrudes directly below the heat exchanger 1, thereby effectively utilizing the space below the heat exchanger 1 and avoiding excessive lateral dimensions. Optionally, the cold water inlet 201 and the hot water outlet 202 can be located at the lower end of the valve seat 21, further facilitating the installation of the cold water inlet pipe and the hot water outlet pipe.

[0093] As an example, please refer to Figures 4 to 6The heat exchanger 1 is a plate heat exchanger; the valve seat 21 is located on one side of the heat exchanger 1 in the thickness direction. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the thickness direction of the plate heat exchanger is consistent with the width direction of the water heater. The plate heat exchanger includes multiple heat exchange plates stacked along its thickness direction, with a heat exchange channel formed between each pair of adjacent heat exchange plates. One of the two adjacent heat exchange channels is the first channel, and the other is the second channel. The first and second channels are arranged alternately along their thickness direction. The first inlet 101, the first outlet 102, the second inlet 103, and the second outlet 104 are located on the sidewall of the plate heat exchanger in the thickness direction. The valve seat 21 is located on one side of the heat exchanger 1 in the thickness direction, which is also on one side of the water heater in the width direction. Meanwhile, the water supply control component 22 is located below the heat exchanger 1, making full use of the lateral and lower space of the heat exchanger 1, further improving the compactness of the structural layout, and making disassembly and maintenance easier.

[0094] Furthermore, the first inlet 101, the first outlet 102, the second inlet 103, the second outlet 104, and the valve seat 21 are located on one side of the heat exchanger 1 in the thickness direction.

[0095] In this embodiment, by placing the first inlet 101, the first outlet 102, the second inlet 103, and the second outlet 104 of the heat exchanger 1 on the same side of the heat exchanger 1 as the valve seat 21, the distance between the valve assembly structure 2 and each inlet and outlet of the heat exchanger 1 can be effectively shortened, the connection distance can be shortened, and the overall lateral dimension can be reduced. This avoids the problem of complex overall structure and low space utilization caused by the dispersed pipeline connections when each inlet and outlet is located on different sides of the heat exchanger 1.

[0096] Specifically, the first inlet 101 and the first outlet 102 are located at opposite corners of the side wall of the heat exchanger 1, and the second inlet 103 and the second outlet 104 are located at opposite corners of the side wall of the heat exchanger 1. The second inlet 103 is located above the first inlet 101, and the first outlet 102 is located above the second outlet 104. The water inlet channel 211 extends from the bottom of the heat exchanger 1 to connect with the second inlet 103. The water replenishment control component 22 is connected to the part of the water inlet channel 211 located below the heat exchanger 1 and is located on the side of the water inlet channel 211 close to the heat exchanger 1.

[0097] In this embodiment, the center line connecting the first inlet 101 and the first outlet 102 intersects with the center line connecting the second inlet 103 and the second outlet 104. The water inlet channel 211 extends along the height direction, the cold water inlet 201 is located below the heat exchanger 1, the water outlet channel 212 extends along the height direction, and the hot water outlet 202 is located below the heat exchanger 1 to facilitate the connection of external cold water inlet pipes and hot water outlet pipes. The second inlet 103 is located above the first inlet 101, and the first outlet 102 is located above the second outlet 104. It can be understood that water in the first channel enters from the lower left and exits from the upper right of the side wall of the heat exchanger 1, while water in the second channel enters from the upper left and exits from the lower right of the side wall of the heat exchanger 1. This creates a counter-current flow pattern between the water in the first and second channels, effectively improving heat exchange efficiency and accelerating hot water preparation.

[0098] By connecting the water replenishment control component 22 to the part of the water inlet channel 211 located below the heat exchanger 1 and on the side of the water inlet channel 211 close to the heat exchanger 1, the water replenishment control component 22 is located in the space below the heat exchanger 1, without occupying the space on both sides of the heat exchanger 1, thus reducing the overall horizontal volume of the unit to a certain extent.

[0099] Please see Figures 1 to 5 In one embodiment of this application, the valve assembly structure 2 further includes a first connecting pipe 24 disposed at the first inlet 101. The outer wall of the first connecting pipe 24 is fixedly connected to the valve seat 21, and the inner cavity of the first connecting pipe 24 is used to connect the first flow channel and the water tank 200.

[0100] As can be seen from the foregoing embodiments, the second inlet 103 is located above the first inlet 101, and the water inlet channel 211 of the valve seat 21 extends along the height direction of the heat exchanger 1. Therefore, it can be understood that the water inlet channel 211 extends upwards from below the first inlet 101 to the second inlet 103 above it. In this embodiment, by providing a first connecting pipe 24 at the first inlet 101, the inner cavity of the first connecting pipe 24 communicates with the first flow channel, and the outer wall of the first connecting pipe 24 is fixedly connected to the valve seat 21. This serves two purposes: firstly, it strengthens the support of the valve seat 21, improving the reliability of the integrated structure of the valve seat 21 and the heat exchanger 1; secondly, it ensures the isolation between the first flow channel and the water inlet channel 211, preventing cross-flow between the water path and the water usage path within the water tank 200. Optionally, the first connecting pipe 24 has two pipe sections connected at an angle. One pipe section is perpendicular to the side wall of the heat exchanger 1 and connected to the first inlet 101. The other pipe section is connected to the end of the first pipe section away from the first inlet 101 and extends in a direction parallel to the side wall of the heat exchanger 1. The corner where the two pipe sections connect is fixed to the valve seat 21. Optionally, the port of the first connecting pipe 24 is a quick-connect interface.

[0101] In some embodiments, a second connecting pipe 25 connected to the valve seat 21 can also be provided at the second inlet 103. The second connecting pipe 25 connects the second inlet 103 and the water inlet channel 211. Structurally, the second connecting pipe 25 can support and fix the valve seat 21. Optionally, the supporting effect of the second connecting pipe 25 and the first connecting pipe 24 on the valve seat 21 allows the water inlet channel 211 to extend along the height direction of the heat exchanger 1 and be arranged approximately parallel to the side wall of the heat exchanger 1, making the spatial arrangement of the valve seat 21 and the heat exchanger 1 more regular.

[0102] Please see Figures 2 to 7 In one embodiment of this application, the water replenishment control component 22 includes a water replenishment pipe 221, a solenoid valve 222, and a one-way valve 223. The water replenishment pipe 221 is provided with a water replenishment port 203 and is connected to the water inlet channel 211. The solenoid valve 222 is provided on the water replenishment pipe 221 and is used to control the opening and closing of the water replenishment pipe 221. The one-way valve 223 is provided on the water replenishment pipe 221 and is located downstream of the solenoid valve 222, and is used to unidirectionally guide the water inlet channel 211 to the water replenishment port 203.

[0103] This embodiment illustrates the specific structure of the water replenishment control component 22. Through the combined action of the solenoid valve 222 and the one-way valve 223, water in the water tank 200 is prevented from flowing into the inlet channel 211 during water replenishment mode. Specifically, the water replenishment pipe 221 is connected to the inlet channel 211, essentially serving as a bypass branch. Both the solenoid valve 222 and the one-way valve 223 are located on the water replenishment pipe 221, with the one-way valve 223 downstream of the solenoid valve 222. The solenoid valve 222 controls the flow of water through the water replenishment pipe 221, while the one-way valve 223, when the solenoid valve 222 is open, unidirectionally guides the water flow from the inlet channel 211 to the water inlet 203, preventing cross-contamination. Optionally, the solenoid valve 222 can be a normally closed solenoid valve, closed during normal water use and open when the water tank 200 needs replenishment. This design provides better protection against cross-contamination compared to a water supply valve that uses only a single control valve to control the on / off state.

[0104] Please see Figures 1 to 7 In one embodiment of this application, the valve assembly structure 2 is further provided with a bypass channel 213 that connects the inlet channel 211 and the outlet channel 212. The bypass channel 213 is provided with a constant temperature control component 23, which is used to adjust the flow rate of the bypass channel 213.

[0105] In this embodiment, a bypass channel 213 connecting the inlet channel 211 and the outlet channel 212 is provided, allowing cold water from the inlet channel 211 to mix with the hot water in the outlet channel 212. This prevents the water flowing out of the hot water outlet 202 of the outlet channel 212 from becoming too hot, thus making the water temperature more comfortable. Specifically, a thermostatic control component 23 is provided on the bypass channel 213, which can adjust the flow rate of the bypass channel 213, that is, adjust the amount of cold water mixed into the outlet channel 212, thereby improving the user's water comfort. Optionally, the thermostatic control component 23 can be a proportional valve, which is equipped with a stepper motor for adjustment, resulting in higher adjustment accuracy.

[0106] Please see Figures 1 to 5 as well as Figure 7 In one embodiment of this application, the inlet channel 211 and the outlet channel 212 are arranged parallel to each other along the height direction of the heat exchanger 1, and the bypass channel 213 is vertically connected to the inlet channel 211 and the outlet channel 212.

[0107] This design, with the inlet channel 211, outlet channel 212, and bypass channel 213 forming an approximate "H" shape, reduces the length of the bypass pipe. This allows cold water in the inlet channel 211 to be quickly transported to the outlet channel 212 via the shorter bypass channel 213 to mix with the hot water in the outlet channel 212, thus ensuring a faster bypass response and a more accurate bypass ratio. Furthermore, the shortened length of the bypass channel 213 improves the structural stability of the entire valve seat 21, preventing deformation of the bypass channel 213 after prolonged use, which could negatively impact the bypass ratio and response speed. This integrated structure is located on one side of the heat exchanger 1, with the bypass channel 213 extending along the thickness of the water heater, fully utilizing the space on the side of the heat exchanger 1.

[0108] Please see Figures 1 to 5 as well as Figure 7 In one embodiment of this application, the temperature control component 23 is located below the heat exchanger 1. This design can make full use of the space below the heat exchanger 1 and reduce the overall lateral size of the unit. Optionally, the inlet water channel 211 and the outlet water channel 212 extend downward and protrude from the lower surface of the heat exchanger 1, and the bypass water channel 213 connects to the portion of the inlet water channel 211 and the outlet water channel 212 located below the heat exchanger 1. In this case, the temperature control component 23 is installed on the side of the bypass water channel 213 facing directly below the heat exchanger 1 to make full use of the area below the heat exchanger 1.

[0109] Furthermore, the temperature control component 23 is located directly below the heat exchanger 1. With this arrangement, both the water supply control component 22 and the temperature control component 23 are located in the lower region of the heat exchanger 1, further reducing the lateral dimensions of the heat exchange system and decreasing the overall size of the unit.

[0110] In one embodiment of this application, the water inlet channel 211 is provided with a water flow sensor 3 near the cold water inlet 201, the water replenishment control component 22 is located downstream of the water flow sensor 3, and the bypass channel 213 is located downstream of the water flow sensor 3.

[0111] In this embodiment, the valve seat 21 serves as the mounting carrier for the water flow sensor 3, resulting in a higher degree of integration in the valve assembly structure 2. By installing the water flow sensor 3 at the cold water inlet 201, the flow rate of the cold water inlet can be monitored. The water replenishment control component 22 is located downstream of the water flow sensor 3, and the bypass channel 213 is also located downstream of the water flow sensor 3, effectively improving the control accuracy of the water replenishment flow rate and the bypass ratio.

[0112] This utility model also proposes a water heater; please refer to [link / reference]. Figures 4 to 8 The water heater includes a water tank 200, a heater 400, and a heat exchange system 100. The specific structure of the heat exchange system 100 is as described in the above embodiments. Since this water heater adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail here. Among them, the heater 400 is used to heat the water in the water tank 200; the heat exchange system 100 is located on one side of the width direction of the water tank 200, and the first inlet 101 and the first outlet 102 are both connected to the water tank 200 so that the first flow channel and the inner cavity of the water tank 200 form a circulation loop. The water inlet 203 is connected to the circulation loop through a pipe.

[0113] Optionally, the heater 400 can be externally or internally placed in the water tank 200 to heat the water in the water tank 200. The heat exchange system 100 is located on one side of the water tank 200 in the width direction, which can make full use of the space in the width direction of the water heater to arrange the heat exchanger 1 and the valve assembly structure 2. The water tank 200 and the first flow channel form a circulation loop. The circulation loop is equipped with a driving component 300 (e.g., a water pump) to realize the circulation flow of water in the water tank 200 from the outlet of the water tank 200 through the first flow channel back to the inlet of the water tank 200. The inlet flow channel 211 of the valve assembly structure 2, the second flow channel of the heat exchanger 1, and the outlet flow channel 212 of the valve assembly structure 2 are connected in sequence to form the water supply circuit of the water heater. Through heat exchange between the second flow channel and the first flow channel, the cold water in the water supply circuit absorbs the heat of the hot water in the first flow channel and becomes hot water. It flows out from the hot water outlet 202 to the water terminal for user use, realizing the function of heating and using live water.

[0114] The water inlet 203 of the water replenishment control component 22 is connected to the circulation loop through a pipe. It can be understood that the water inlet 203 can be directly connected to the water tank 200 through a pipe to realize the function of directly replenishing water into the water tank 200; or, the water inlet 203 can be connected to the first inlet 101 through a pipe, so that the replenishing water can flow into the water tank 200 through the first flow channel and the first outlet 102 to realize the function of indirectly replenishing water into the water tank 200; or, the water inlet 203 can be connected to a position in the circulation loop near the heat exchanger 1 through a pipe.

[0115] In one embodiment of this application, one side of the heat exchanger 1 is mounted on the side wall of the water tank 200, and the valve assembly structure 2 is located on the side of the heat exchanger 1 opposite to the water tank 200. This arrangement can make full use of the lateral space inside the water heater and reduce the height dimension.

[0116] In one embodiment of this application, the water tank 200 is provided with an inlet pipe assembly 510 and an outlet pipe assembly 520. The inlet pipe assembly 510 is located in the upper region of the water tank 200, and the outlet pipe assembly 520 is located in the lower region of the water tank 200. In the height direction, the heat exchanger 1 is located between the outlet pipe assembly 520 and the inlet pipe assembly 510. The first inlet 101 is located below the heat exchanger 1, and the first outlet 102 is located above the heat exchanger 1.

[0117] With this configuration, the water flowing into the inlet pipe assembly 510 can force the water in the lower region of the water tank 200 through the outlet pipe assembly 520 into the circulation loop to be heated by the heater 400. This forces convection between the water in the water tank 200 and the water in the circulation loop, improving the heating efficiency of the circulating water circuit, thereby increasing heat exchange efficiency and accelerating hot water preparation. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the outlet pipe assembly 520 is located in the lower region of the water tank 200, and the first inlet 101 is located in the lower part of the heat exchanger 1, effectively shortening the length of the connecting pipe between the outlet pipe assembly 520 and the first inlet 101, thus saving layout space. Correspondingly, the inlet pipe assembly 510 is located in the upper region of the water tank 200, and the first outlet 102 is located in the upper part of the heat exchanger 1, effectively shortening the length of the connecting pipe between the inlet pipe assembly 510 and the first outlet 102, thus saving layout space.

[0118] The working mode of this electric water heater will be described below by way of an embodiment. It can be understood that this electric water heater has a water use mode and a water replenishment mode. The water use mode is the mode when the user uses water at the water terminal, and the water replenishment mode is the mode when water is replenished into the water tank 200 by the water replenishment control component 22 when the water use mode is turned off.

[0119] Please see Figure 7In water usage mode, the water replenishment control component 22 blocks the inlet channel 211 from the circulation loop (solenoid valve 222 is closed), the heater 400 and drive component 300 are turned on, and the water in the water tank 200 flows back to the water tank 200 through the heater 400, the first channel, and the drive component 300 in sequence; the water in the inlet channel 211 flows through the second channel and the bypass channel 213 to the outlet channel 212 to mix before flowing out for use. In this mode, the water in the circulation loop circulates under the action of the drive component 300. The water flowing out of the water tank 200 is heated by the heater 400 and flows into the first channel to exchange heat with the cold water in the second channel. Then it flows back to the water tank 200 through the inlet. At the same time, the water in the water tank 200 flows out of the outlet and is reheated by the heater 400 before flowing into the first channel to heat the cold water flowing in the second channel. Meanwhile, in the water supply system, cold water enters from the inlet end of the inlet channel 211 and then splits into two paths. One path enters the second channel and is heated into hot water by the first channel before flowing into the outlet channel 212. The other path enters the outlet channel 212 through the bypass channel 213, mixes with the hot water, and then flows out from the water terminal.

[0120] Please see Figure 8 In the water replenishment mode, the outlet end of the water outlet channel 212 is closed (i.e., the water terminal is closed), and the water replenishment control component 22 connects the water inlet channel 211 and the circulation loop (the solenoid valve 222 is open). The water in the water inlet channel 211 flows to the water tank 200 through the water replenishment control component 22 and the circulation loop. In this mode, the water circuit is closed, the solenoid valve 222 of the water replenishment control component 22 is open, and the water replenishment pipe 221 is in a conductive state. The cold water entering from the inlet end of the water inlet channel 211 will directly enter the water replenishment pipe 221, flow into the water tank 200 through the circulation loop to perform water replenishment until the water level in the water tank 200 reaches the preset water level, at which point water replenishment stops.

[0121] In practical applications, a water level sensor can be installed in the water tank 200 to detect the water level in the water tank 200. The water level sensor can be electrically connected to the main control module of the electric water heater. When the water level is insufficient, the main control module controls the solenoid valve 222 of the water replenishment control component 22 to open, thereby realizing the water replenishment operation. When the water level meets the preset water level, the main control module controls the solenoid valve 222 to close, thereby stopping the water replenishment.

[0122] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model and does not limit the patent scope of the present utility model. All equivalent structural transformations made under the inventive concept of the present utility model using the contents of the present utility model specification and drawings, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A valve assembly structure, characterized in that, For installation on one side of the water tank of a water heater, the valve assembly structure includes: The first valve body is provided with a cold water inlet, a cold water outlet, and a water inlet channel connecting the cold water inlet and the cold water outlet; A second valve body, connected to the first valve body, is provided with a hot water inlet, a hot water outlet, and a water outlet channel connecting the hot water inlet and the hot water outlet; and A water replenishment control component is connected to the first valve body and has a water replenishment port. The water replenishment control component is configured to connect or block the water inlet channel from the water replenishment port.

2. The valve assembly structure as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Both the first valve body and the second valve body extend along the first direction.

3. The valve assembly structure as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The valve assembly structure also includes a bypass pipe connecting the first valve body and the second valve body. The bypass pipe has a bypass channel inside that connects the inlet channel and the outlet channel. The bypass pipe is equipped with a constant temperature control component for adjusting the flow rate of the bypass channel.

4. The valve assembly structure as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The bypass pipe extends along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction.

5. The valve assembly structure as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The constant temperature control component and the water replenishment control component are located on the same side of the valve assembly structure in the third direction, wherein the third direction is perpendicular to both the second direction and the first direction.

6. The valve assembly structure as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The first valve body, the second valve body, and the bypass pipe are an integral structure.

7. The valve assembly structure as described in any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that, The cold water inlet and the hot water outlet are located at the same end in the first direction; the length of the first valve body in the first direction is greater than the length of the second valve body in the first direction.

8. The valve assembly structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The water replenishment control component includes: A water supply pipe is provided with the water supply port and is connected to the water inlet channel; A solenoid valve, located on the water supply pipe, is used to control the on / off state of the water supply pipe; and A one-way valve is provided on the water supply pipe and located downstream of the solenoid valve, for unidirectionally guiding the water inlet channel to the water supply port.

9. A heat exchange system, characterized in that, include: A heat exchanger having a first flow channel and a second flow channel connected in a heat exchange manner, the first flow channel having a first inlet and a first outlet, and the second flow channel having a second inlet and a second outlet, both the first inlet and the first outlet being used to communicate with the water tank; and The valve assembly structure includes an inlet channel, an outlet channel, a cold water inlet, a hot water outlet, and a water replenishment control component. The inlet channel connects the cold water inlet with the second inlet, and the outlet channel connects the second outlet with the hot water outlet. The water replenishment control component is provided with a water inlet for connecting with the water tank, and the water replenishment control component is configured to connect or block the inlet channel from the water inlet.

10. The heat exchange system as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The water replenishment control component is located at least partially in the area below the heat exchanger.

11. The heat exchange system as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that, The water replenishment control component is disposed opposite to the lower surface of the heat exchanger.

12. The heat exchange system as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The valve assembly structure includes a valve seat disposed on one side of the heat exchanger, and both the inlet water channel and the outlet water channel are formed in the valve seat; The valve seat protrudes from the lower surface of the heat exchanger, and the water supply control component is connected to the portion of the valve seat that protrudes from the lower surface of the heat exchanger.

13. The heat exchange system as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The heat exchanger is a plate heat exchanger; the first inlet and the first outlet, the second inlet and the second outlet, and the valve seat are located on one side of the thickness direction of the heat exchanger.

14. The heat exchange system as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The first inlet and the first outlet are located at opposite corners of the heat exchanger sidewall, and the second inlet and the second outlet are located at opposite corners of the heat exchanger sidewall, wherein the second inlet is located above the first inlet and the first outlet is located above the second outlet. The water inlet channel extends from below the heat exchanger to connect with the second inlet. The water replenishment control component is connected to the portion of the water inlet channel located below the heat exchanger and is located on the side of the water inlet channel close to the heat exchanger.

15. The heat exchange system as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The valve assembly structure further includes a first connecting pipe disposed at the first inlet, the outer wall of the first connecting pipe being fixedly connected to the valve seat, and the inner cavity of the first connecting pipe being used to connect the first flow channel and the water tank.

16. The heat exchange system according to any one of claims 9 to 15, characterized in that, The water replenishment control component includes: A water supply pipe is provided with the water supply port and is connected to the water inlet channel; A solenoid valve, located on the water supply pipe, is used to control the on / off state of the water supply pipe; and A one-way valve is provided on the water supply pipe and located downstream of the solenoid valve, for unidirectionally guiding the water inlet channel to the water supply port.

17. The heat exchange system according to any one of claims 9 to 15, characterized in that, The valve assembly structure also includes a bypass channel and a constant temperature control component located in the bypass channel. The bypass channel connects the inlet channel and the outlet channel, and the constant temperature control component is used to adjust the flow rate of the bypass pipe.

18. The heat exchange system as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that, The temperature control component is located in the lower region of the heat exchanger.

19. The heat exchange system as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that, The inlet channel and the outlet channel extend parallel to each other along the height direction of the heat exchanger, and the bypass channel is perpendicularly connected to the inlet channel and the outlet channel.

20. A water heater, characterized in that, include: Water tank; A heater is used to heat the water in the water tank; as well as The heat exchange system as described in any one of claims 9 to 19 is located on one side of the water tank in the width direction; the first flow channel forms a circulation loop with the inner cavity of the water tank, and the water inlet is connected to the circulation loop through a pipe.

21. The water heater as described in claim 20, characterized in that, One side of the heat exchanger is installed on the side wall of the water tank, and the valve assembly is located on the side of the heat exchanger away from the water tank.

22. The water heater as described in claim 20, characterized in that, The water tank is equipped with an inlet pipe assembly and an outlet pipe assembly. The inlet pipe assembly is located in the upper part of the water tank, and the outlet pipe assembly is located in the lower part of the water tank. In the vertical direction, the heat exchanger is located between the outlet pipe assembly and the inlet pipe assembly, the first inlet is located below the heat exchanger, and the first outlet is located above the heat exchanger.

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