Water treatment apparatus

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of water purification equipment, and relates to a water treatment equipment which comprises a temperature adjusting device; the temperature adjusting device comprises a heat exchange part, a heat exchange pipeline and a heat exchange water tank, the cold working end of the heat exchange part is thermally coupled to a water storage device, the heat exchange water tank is provided with a heat exchange channel used for conveying a heat exchange water source, and the heat exchange channel is connected to the heat exchange part; wherein the heat exchange channel comprises multiple bending sections, and the heat exchange water source is thermally coupled to the heat dissipation end of the heat exchange part through the heat exchange water tank. The water treatment equipment in the embodiment improves the heat exchange effect between the heat exchange water source and the heat exchange water tank by adopting the heat exchange channel with the bending sections.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of water purification equipment technology, and more particularly to a water treatment device. Background Technology

[0002] In the current field of water purification equipment technology, air cooling is commonly used to cool or refrigerate the water tank in order to achieve water temperature regulation. This method mainly relies on fans and heat sinks, using air convection to remove heat and thus regulate the water temperature inside the tank. Its structure is relatively simple and the cost is relatively low, meeting the basic needs of some users to a certain extent. However, the air cooling system used in existing water purification equipment has significant limitations. Because air cooling depends on air convection for heat dissipation, its cooling effect is highly susceptible to changes in ambient temperature. In high-temperature environments, the heat dissipation efficiency of air convection decreases significantly, making it difficult to maintain a stable and ideal water temperature, and thus failing to accurately provide users with water at a suitable temperature. Utility Model Content

[0003] In view of this, this application provides a water treatment device to solve the problem of poor cooling performance of existing water treatment devices.

[0004] The first aspect of this application provides a water treatment device, comprising:

[0005] A temperature control device includes a heat exchanger and a hot water tank. The hot water tank is provided with a heat exchange channel for conveying a hot water source, and the heat exchange channel is connected to the heat exchanger. The heat exchange channel includes multiple bends, and the hot water source is thermally coupled to the heat dissipation end of the heat exchanger through the hot water tank.

[0006] In one possible implementation, the hot water exchange tank further includes a plurality of flow guides, which are arranged at an angle to the orientation from the input end to the output end of the hot water exchange tank, and the plurality of flow guides are arranged sequentially along the orientation to form the bent section.

[0007] In one possible implementation, multiple flow guides are arranged in an alternating manner.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the hot water exchange tank further includes a pipe section connected to the input and output ends of the hot water exchange tank, with a plurality of the bends arranged along the extension direction of the pipe section.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the pipe section includes at least one of a spiral structure and a disc structure.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the temperature control device further includes heat exchange fins connected to the hot water tank, with the heat exchange fins at least partially located within the heat exchange channel and / or on the outer wall of the hot water tank, and the heat exchange fins thermally coupled to the hot water source.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the water storage device includes a cold water tank thermally coupled to the working end of the heat exchanger.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the water storage device includes a refrigeration section and a cold storage section, the refrigeration section being connected to the cold storage section and thermally coupled to the working end of the heat exchanger.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the water storage device further includes a first water storage pump, which is connected to the refrigeration unit and the cold storage unit respectively, and the refrigeration unit is connected to the cold storage unit.

[0014] And / or the water storage device further includes a second water storage pump, which is connected to the cold storage section and is used to pump cold water outward.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the water treatment device further includes a filter cartridge assembly for mounting an external water purification filter cartridge, the purified water end of the filter cartridge assembly being connected to the water storage device.

[0016] Implementing the embodiments of this application has the following beneficial effects:

[0017] The water treatment equipment in this implementation improves the heat exchange efficiency between the hot water source and the hot water tank by employing a heat exchange channel with a bend. This design effectively enhances heat dissipation performance, overcomes the problem of low heat dissipation efficiency of existing air-cooled systems in high-temperature environments, and ensures that the water temperature can be stabilized at the ideal state required by the user.

[0018] Furthermore, the multi-bend structure of the heat exchange channel not only increases the flow path of the hot water source and improves the contact area for heat exchange, but also optimizes the flow process of the hot water source, enabling better thermal coupling with the heat exchange components during transportation. This design reduces dependence on the external environment, allowing the water treatment equipment to maintain good water temperature regulation under different environmental conditions, thus meeting users' requirements for water temperature stability. In addition, the water treatment equipment in this implementation does not require venting when controlling the inlet and outlet of the hot water source, thereby simplifying the operation process and improving ease of use. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 A perspective view of the water treatment equipment in an embodiment of this utility model is shown;

[0021] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the water circuit structure of the water treatment equipment in an embodiment of this utility model is shown;

[0022] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the hot water tank in some embodiments of this utility model is shown.

[0023] Figure label:

[0024] 10. Water treatment equipment;

[0025] 100. Water storage device; 110. Cold water tank; 111. Refrigeration unit; 112. Cold storage unit; 120. First water pump; 130. Second water pump;

[0026] 200. Temperature control device; 210. Heat exchanger; 220. Hot water tank; 221. Flow guide; 222. Piping section;

[0027] 300. Filter element assembly; 310. Filter element mounting base; 320. Filter element booster pump;

[0028] 400. Host Structure. Detailed Implementation

[0029] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0030] Existing water treatment equipment generally uses air cooling, employing fans and heat sinks to cool or refrigerate the water tank. Air cooling systems rely on air convection to remove heat, resulting in a relatively simple structure and low cost. However, their cooling effect is significantly affected by ambient temperature, especially in high-temperature environments where air cooling efficiency drops markedly, leading to unstable water temperature regulation. Furthermore, air cooling systems typically occupy a large space, limiting the compactness and design flexibility of the overall water treatment equipment, making it difficult to meet the demands of modern water purification equipment for miniaturization and high efficiency.

[0031] To address the limited cooling efficiency of air-cooled systems, some water treatment equipment employs liquid or water cooling systems to enhance heat exchange. However, existing liquid-cooled heat exchangers often use separate configurations for heat exchange components and piping, resulting in limited contact area and suboptimal heat exchange efficiency. Furthermore, the complex structure of these heat exchangers occupies significant space, increasing the overall size of the equipment and hindering miniaturization and convenient installation.

[0032] Based on this, see Figures 1 to 3 As shown, this utility model embodiment provides a water treatment device 10, which includes a temperature control device 200; the temperature control device 200 includes a heat exchange element 210 and a hot water tank 220, the hot water tank 220 is provided with a heat exchange channel for conveying a hot water source, the heat exchange channel is connected to the heat exchange element 210; wherein, the heat exchange channel includes multiple bends, and the hot water source is thermally coupled to the heat dissipation end of the heat exchange element 210 through the hot water tank 220.

[0033] The water treatment equipment 10 in this embodiment improves the heat exchange effect between the hot water source and the hot water tank 220 by adopting a heat exchange channel with a bend. This design effectively enhances heat dissipation performance, overcomes the problem of low heat dissipation efficiency of existing air-cooled systems in high-temperature environments, and ensures that the water temperature can be stabilized at the ideal state required by the user.

[0034] Furthermore, the multi-bend structure of the heat exchange channel not only increases the flow path of the hot water source and improves the contact area for heat exchange, but also optimizes the flow process of the hot water source, enabling it to better couple with the heat exchanger 210 during transport. This design reduces dependence on the external environment, allowing the water treatment equipment 10 to maintain good water temperature regulation under different environmental conditions, thereby meeting the user's requirements for water temperature stability. Additionally, the water treatment equipment 10 in this embodiment does not require venting when controlling the inlet and outlet of the hot water source, thus simplifying the operation process and improving ease of use. The hot water source is thermally coupled to the heat dissipation end of the heat exchanger 210 through the hot water tank 220.

[0035] In this embodiment, the heat exchanger 210 can be a semiconductor refrigeration chip. This design fully utilizes the thermoelectric effect of semiconductor materials, possessing high energy conversion efficiency and good cooling performance. Specifically, the working end of the semiconductor refrigeration chip is thermally coupled to the water storage device 100 through a cooling pipe, which can efficiently transfer cold energy to the water storage device 100, thereby effectively reducing the water temperature.

[0036] The advantage of using a thermoelectric cooler as the heat exchanger 210 is its relatively small size, providing powerful cooling capacity without increasing the overall system size. This compact design meets the miniaturization needs of modern households for water treatment equipment 10, making it particularly suitable for space-constrained home environments. Simultaneously, the thermoelectric cooler operates with low noise, enhancing the user experience. The design of the cooling conduit allows for efficient flow of the refrigerant, ensuring rapid transfer of cooling capacity. In practice, the cooling conduit can be made of copper or aluminum tubing with high thermal conductivity to meet different cooling requirements.

[0037] Furthermore, the precise thermal coupling between the working end of the thermoelectric cooler and the water storage device 100 helps to achieve more stable temperature control. By optimizing the spacing between the heat exchanger 210 and the water storage device 100, the heat exchange efficiency can be further improved, ensuring that the water temperature in the water storage device 100 decreases rapidly and uniformly.

[0038] In this embodiment, the heat exchange channel is connected to the heat exchange element 210 to form a closed loop.

[0039] By using a design scheme that drives the heat exchange water source to circulate and transport within the heat exchange channel, air intake within the heat exchange channel can be effectively avoided, thus achieving a function that eliminates the need for exhaust.

[0040] Specifically, the closed-loop structure ensures a continuous and closed circulation path for the heat exchange source within the system, preventing external air from entering the heat exchange channel and avoiding problems such as decreased heat exchange efficiency and unstable equipment operation caused by gas intrusion. The circulation of the heat exchange source can be driven by a circulation pump or other mechanical drive device, ensuring a stable and continuous circulation velocity, keeping the heat exchange channel and heat exchange tank constantly filled with the heat exchange source, and effectively eliminating any space where gas may stagnate.

[0041] In traditional non-closed heat exchange systems, gas accumulation inside the pipes during initial use or operation often leads to reduced heat exchange efficiency, and may even cause localized overheating or uneven cooling, affecting the overall temperature regulation performance of the water treatment equipment. By adopting a closed-loop design and utilizing a mechanically driven circulating hot water source, these problems can be effectively improved, enhancing the stability and reliability of the heat exchange process.

[0042] Furthermore, the closed-loop design simplifies system maintenance, eliminating the need for periodic manual venting and reducing operational complexity and maintenance costs. The system can be further integrated with gas separators or gas buffer chambers to automatically absorb and remove trace amounts of gas, further enhancing operational stability. (See also...) Figure 3 As shown in (a), in one embodiment, the heat exchange tank 220 further includes multiple flow guides 221. The flow guides 221 are arranged at a certain angle to the flow direction from the input end to the output end of the heat exchange tank 220, and the multiple flow guides 221 are arranged sequentially along this direction to form multiple bends. This design scheme, by setting multiple flow guides 221 in the heat exchange tank 220, can effectively change the flow path of the fluid, increase the residence time and turbulence of the fluid in the heat exchange tank 220, thereby significantly improving the heat exchange efficiency.

[0043] Specifically, the included angle of the flow guide 221 can be designed according to the structural dimensions and fluid characteristics of the heat exchange tank 220. The included angle can include various angles such as 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90°, and is determined comprehensively based on the flow velocity, heat exchange requirements, and structural compactness. When the included angle is small (e.g., 30°), the fluid flow resistance is relatively low, which is suitable for high flow velocity conditions; while a larger included angle (e.g., 90°) can more significantly disturb the fluid flow, enhance mixing and turbulence effects, but may bring greater pressure loss. Therefore, the selection of the included angle needs to be balanced between heat exchange efficiency and energy consumption.

[0044] The number of flow guides 221 can be two, three, four, or more, and is not limited to a single number. Increasing the number of flow guides 221 can further extend the fluid flow path, increase the contact opportunity between the fluid and the wall of the heat exchange tank 220, and promote heat transfer. Simultaneously, the bends formed sequentially by the multiple flow guides 221 along the flow direction help break the laminar flow state of the fluid, induce turbulence, and improve the convective heat transfer coefficient, thereby enhancing the overall heat exchange performance.

[0045] The specific shape of the flow guide 221 can be varied, including flat, arc, serrated, or finned shapes, to adapt to different application requirements. The flat flow guide 221 has a simple structure and low manufacturing cost; the arc or serrated flow guide 221 can more effectively guide fluid flow, reduce local dead zones, and improve fluid uniformity; the finned flow guide 221 can simultaneously play the dual role of guiding flow and increasing heat exchange area.

[0046] The material of the flow guide 221 should have good corrosion resistance and thermal conductivity. Commonly used materials include stainless steel, aluminum alloy and other metal materials. High-performance engineering plastics can also be used to reduce weight and manufacturing costs. The flow guide 221 can be fixed to the inner wall of the water exchange tank 220 by welding, bolting or snap-fit, ensuring structural stability and easy assembly and maintenance.

[0047] Through the above design, the flow guide 221 not only effectively extends the fluid heat exchange path and enhances the turbulence and mixing of the fluid, but also improves the uniformity of temperature distribution inside the hot water tank 220, reduces the generation of local overheating or cold spots, and improves the heat exchange performance and service life of the hot water tank 220.

[0048] Furthermore, multiple flow guides 221 are arranged in an alternating manner.

[0049] In this embodiment, the staggered arrangement of multiple flow guides 221 significantly enhances the fluid disturbance effect, breaks the laminar flow state, induces strong turbulence, and increases the heat exchange contact area and heat transfer coefficient between the fluid and the inner wall of the heat exchange tank 220 and the surface of the flow guides 221. This not only increases the residence time of the fluid in the heat exchange tank 220, but also effectively avoids fluid short-circuiting and the formation of local dead zones, improves the uniform heat transfer effect, and thus improves the overall heat exchange efficiency.

[0050] Furthermore, the staggered flow guides 221 optimize the fluid velocity distribution, preventing localized overheating or insufficient cooling caused by concentrated fluid flow on one side, thus ensuring temperature uniformity inside the heat exchange tank 220 and stable system operation. Compared to single-row or same-side arrangements, the staggered arrangement better balances fluid resistance, reduces overall pressure loss, and improves the system's energy-saving performance while ensuring heat exchange efficiency.

[0051] In practice, the staggered flow guides 221 can be arranged in two, three, or more rows along the cross-section of the heat exchange tank 220. The shape of the flow guides 221 can be flat, arc-shaped, corrugated, or finned, etc., and with a reasonable angle design, the heat exchange performance can be further improved. The number of flow guides 221 can be determined according to the heat exchange requirements and the size of the heat exchange tank 220. The number can be two, three, four, or more. Increasing the number helps to extend the fluid flow path and improve the heat exchange efficiency.

[0052] See Figure 3 As shown in (b), in another embodiment, the heat exchange tank 220 further includes a pipe section 222, which is connected to the inlet and outlet of the heat exchange tank 220 respectively, and multiple bends are arranged along the extension direction of the pipe section 222. This design, by providing a pipe section 222 with multiple bends between the inlet and outlet of the heat exchange tank 220, significantly extends the flow path and effectively disturbs the flow state of the fluid as it flows through the heat exchange tank 220, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency.

[0053] Specifically, the multiple bends in pipe section 222 can create a more complex fluid flow path, increasing the contact area between the fluid and the pipe wall, while simultaneously promoting turbulence and significantly improving the heat transfer coefficient. The number of bends can be designed according to heat transfer requirements and space dimensions, specifically two, three, four, or more. Increasing the number can extend the fluid flow path and residence time, but too many bends may lead to increased flow resistance and increased system energy consumption. Therefore, the number of bends should be reasonably balanced between improving heat transfer efficiency and increasing flow resistance.

[0054] The bending angle of the bend is also a key parameter in the design, and can include various angles such as 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90°. A smaller bending angle helps reduce flow resistance and is suitable for applications requiring higher flow velocities; a larger bending angle enhances fluid turbulence, improves turbulence intensity and heat transfer, but may cause a larger pressure drop. Depending on the specific operating conditions, a single angle or a combination of multiple angles can be selected for the bend to achieve optimal heat transfer performance.

[0055] The pipe section 222 can adopt various cross-sectional forms, such as circular, elliptical, or rectangular cross-sections. The specific cross-sectional shape can be selected according to the fluid properties, the internal spatial layout of the heat exchange tank 220, and the manufacturing process. Circular cross-sections have relatively low flow resistance and mature manufacturing processes; elliptical or rectangular cross-sections are beneficial for increasing the heat exchange surface area and improving heat exchange efficiency. The material of the pipe section 222 should have good corrosion resistance and thermal conductivity. Commonly used materials include stainless steel, copper alloys, aluminum alloys, and other metal materials. High-temperature and high-pressure resistant engineering plastics or composite materials can also be used as needed.

[0056] The connection methods for pipe section 222 can include welding, flange connection, threaded connection, or quick-clamping, ensuring the sealing and durability of the connection and facilitating installation and maintenance. The inner wall of pipe section 222 can be treated with spraying, coating, or surface roughening to improve fluid turbulence and further enhance heat exchange efficiency.

[0057] Specifically, the pipe section 222 includes at least one of a spiral structure and a disc structure, which further enriches the structural form of the pipe section 222 and is conducive to improving the heat exchange performance of the hot water tank 220.

[0058] Specifically, the spiral pipe section 222 adopts a spiral shape arranged along the extension direction, causing the fluid to rotate during flow, increasing the shearing force between the fluid and the pipe wall and the intensity of turbulence. The spiral structure can effectively extend the fluid flow path, increase the fluid residence time, and promote heat transfer between the fluid and the heat exchange wall. In addition, spiral flow can reduce the laminar flow region of the fluid, avoid the formation of dead zones and short-circuit flow, and significantly improve heat exchange efficiency. The parameters of the spiral structure can be adjusted according to actual needs, including the diameter, pitch, and number of turns of the spiral. For example, the spiral diameter can be 20mm, 30mm, or 40mm, and the pitch can be 10mm, 15mm, or 20mm. The selection of specific parameters can control the flow resistance while ensuring heat exchange effect and avoid excessive pressure loss.

[0059] The disc-type pipe section 222 refers to a system where multiple disc-shaped structures are stacked sequentially or spaced apart to form a layered flow channel. This forces the fluid to bypass each disc surface as it flows through the pipe, resulting in multiple flow direction reversals and a complex flow path. The disc structure helps to increase the heat exchange surface area within a limited space, and the multiple flow direction changes induce strong fluid turbulence, enhancing turbulence intensity and heat exchange efficiency. The number of discs in the disc structure can be two, three, four, or more, and the disc shape can be a circular disc, a corrugated disc, or an irregularly shaped disc with flow channel grooves. Different shapes and sizes can be selected according to different operating conditions, facilitating flexible adjustment of fluid velocity and heat exchange effect.

[0060] In practical applications, the pipe section 222 can adopt a spiral structure or a disc structure alone, or a combination of both to form a spiral-disc composite structure. The composite structure combines the rotational flow advantages of the spiral structure with the multiple-turn flow advantages of the disc structure, further enhancing fluid turbulence and improving heat exchange efficiency. Simultaneously, the composite structure design can optimize flow resistance by rationally combining spiral parameters with the number and spacing of discs, achieving a balance between heat exchange performance and system energy consumption.

[0061] In one embodiment, the space formed between the inner wall of the hot water tank 220 and the pipe section 222 is used to transport the second hot water source, which constitutes a structural design of multiple hot water sources flowing in parallel. This design realizes multi-channel heat exchange.

[0062] Specifically, when the first heat exchange source flows along the inside of the pipe section 222, the fluid path is extended and the flow state is disturbed by the spiral structure, disc structure, or a combination of both of the pipe section 222, increasing the heat exchange area and the degree of turbulence, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency. Simultaneously, the second heat exchange source flows in the space between the pipe section 222 and the inner wall of the heat exchange tank 220, utilizing the annular flow path of this space to form a heat exchange interface with the first heat exchange source. The two heat exchange sources exchange heat through the wall of the heat exchange tank 220 or the heat-conducting wall of the pipe section 222, achieving the goal of efficient heat exchange.

[0063] The multi-source heat exchange layout offers significant advantages. First, the presence of the second heat exchange source within the space increases the heat exchange area inside the heat exchange tank 220, expanding the heat exchange interface and improving the overall heat exchange effect. Second, because the flow paths of the two heat exchange sources are independent and do not interfere with each other, the flow velocity and flow pattern of their respective channels can be optimized, further enhancing fluid turbulence, reducing heat exchange resistance, and improving heat exchange efficiency. Third, the annular space design allows the second heat exchange source to form a stable and continuous flow, avoiding fluid stagnation and localized overheating, and maintaining the uniformity and stability of the heat exchange process.

[0064] Furthermore, the flow patterns of the first and second heat exchange sources can be co-current, counter-current, or cross-flow, with the optimal flow pattern selected based on actual heat exchange requirements and system design. In counter-current mode, the temperature gradient between the two heat exchange sources is larger, which is beneficial for improving heat exchange efficiency; co-current mode has a simple structure; and cross-flow mode combines the advantages of both and is suitable for specific operating conditions.

[0065] Of course, in some embodiments, the heat exchange tank 220 can work in conjunction with the flow guide 221 and the pipe section 222 to further improve the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchange tank 220. Specifically, the flow guide 221 is located inside the heat exchange tank 220 and can reasonably guide and distribute the fluid flow path, optimize the fluid flow state and velocity distribution, thereby enhancing the turbulence and heat exchange effect of the fluid.

[0066] The flow guide section 221 alters the fluid flow direction, creating an orderly and uniform flow field layout. This prevents dead zones and stagnation areas within the heat exchange tank 220, reducing localized fluid temperature unevenness and improving heat exchange efficiency. Simultaneously, the flow guide section 221 can work in conjunction with the spiral or disc structure of the pipe section 222 to further extend the effective heat exchange time of the fluid by adjusting the flow sequence and velocity inside and outside the pipe, increasing the thermal contact area between the fluid and the heat exchange wall, and promoting full heat transfer.

[0067] In practice, the flow guiding section 221 can take various forms, such as setting up annular baffles, flow guiding blades, flow diversion channels, etc., and its quantity can be one, two or more, and it can be reasonably arranged according to the size of the hot water tank 220 and the fluid flow rate.

[0068] In summary, the design of the heat exchange tank 220, which combines the flow guide section 221 and the pipe section 222, not only optimizes the flow path and flow pattern of the fluid, enhances fluid turbulence, and extends the heat exchange time, but also expands the effective heat exchange area and improves the heat exchange efficiency.

[0069] Furthermore, the temperature control device 200 also includes a heat exchange pump, which is located on the pipeline between the heat exchange element 210 and the hot water tank 220. The heat exchange pump is used to transport the hot water source and drive the hot water source to be continuously and stably transported along the pipeline between the heat exchange element 210 and the hot water tank 220. By setting up the heat exchange pump, the flow resistance in the circulation loop can be effectively overcome, ensuring that the heat exchange medium flows at a suitable flow rate throughout the loop, thereby significantly improving the delivery efficiency of the hot water source.

[0070] Specifically, the introduction of a heat exchange pump ensures good flow of the hot water source in the pipes between the heat exchanger 210 and the hot water tank 220, as well as inside the heat exchanger 210, preventing a decrease in heat exchange efficiency and localized heat accumulation due to excessively low flow rates. Simultaneously, stable flow enhances the heat exchange between the heat exchange medium and the surface of the heat exchanger 210 and its fins, improving convective heat transfer efficiency and accelerating heat transfer.

[0071] In addition, the selection of heat exchange pumps should also consider their compact mechanical structure, low noise, corrosion resistance, and energy efficiency to meet the requirements of the water treatment equipment 10 regarding overall equipment size and operating environment. Specifically, various types such as centrifugal pumps, gear pumps, or vortex pumps can be used, with flexible selection based on the actual application scenario. The installation location of the heat exchange pump is generally set at an appropriate position in the circulation loop, such as at the outlet of the hot water tank 220 or the inlet of the heat exchange component 210, to ensure smooth flow of the circulating medium.

[0072] Driven by the heat exchange pump, the heat exchange medium circulation in the temperature control device 200 is more efficient and reliable, significantly improving the heat exchange effect between the heat source and the heat exchange element 210, shortening the temperature control response time, and improving the stability and accuracy of temperature control. At the same time, the use of the heat exchange pump also helps reduce localized overheating or underheating problems caused by stagnation and poor flow of the circulating medium, extending the service life of the equipment and reducing maintenance frequency and costs.

[0073] Furthermore, the temperature control device 200 also includes a pressure relief valve installed on the pipeline between the heat exchanger 210 and the hot water tank 220. As a safety and maintenance device, the pressure relief valve's main function is to automatically open when the gas pressure in the pipeline between the heat exchanger 210 and the hot water tank 220 exceeds a preset threshold to release excess gas or pressure, thereby ensuring the safe and stable operation of the heat exchange system.

[0074] Specifically, the pressure relief valve is installed at a suitable location on the pipeline between the heat exchanger 210 and the hot water tank 220, such as at the connection between the hot water tank 220 and the pipeline, in the bend area of ​​the pipeline, or in the pipeline section near the heat exchanger 210. When the internal pressure of the pipeline increases due to factors such as air bubble accumulation, temperature changes, or abnormal operation of the circulating pump, the pressure relief valve will automatically activate to release the gas in the pipeline, preventing the pressure from continuing to rise and causing the pipeline to rupture or the heat exchanger to be damaged.

[0075] The pressure relief valve effectively complements the gas management capabilities of the closed-loop design. While the closed-loop design itself prevents external air from entering and reduces gas accumulation, in actual operation, the system may still experience localized pressure increases due to trace gas release, temperature changes causing gas expansion, or other unavoidable gas generation. The pressure relief valve ensures that no safety hazards arise when abnormal pressure occurs, and also prevents excessively high gas pressure from affecting the normal circulation and heat exchange efficiency of the hot water source.

[0076] Furthermore, the pressure relief valve's rapid response and automatic recovery function enable timely gas release and automatic pressure reduction in the pipeline without manual intervention, reducing system maintenance difficulty and user operation complexity. The pressure relief valve can employ a spring-reset structure to ensure automatic closure after the gas pressure returns to normal, maintaining the system's tightness and circulation stability. The pressure relief valve is preferably made of corrosion-resistant, pressure-resistant stainless steel or high-strength alloy materials to adapt to long-term operating environments and extend its service life.

[0077] By setting a pressure relief valve, the temperature control device 200 not only improves its safety protection capability, but also enables effective venting when necessary, preventing excessive gas retention in the closed loop, and further ensuring smooth water circulation in the heat exchange channel and efficient and stable heat exchange process.

[0078] In summary, the pressure relief valve, as an important component of the temperature control device 200, protects the temperature control device 200 and related components from abnormal pressure by automatically releasing overpressure gas, ensuring the stability of the hot water source circulation and the continuous improvement of heat exchange efficiency, thus meeting the dual requirements of modern water treatment equipment 10 for safety and high efficiency.

[0079] In one embodiment, the temperature control device 200 further includes heat exchange fins connected to the hot water tank 220, and at least partially located within the heat exchange channel and / or on the outer wall of the hot water tank 220, and thermally coupled to the hot water source. By providing heat exchange fins, the effective heat transfer area between the hot water tank 220 and the hot water source can be significantly increased, thereby enhancing heat exchange efficiency.

[0080] Specifically, heat exchange fins can be made of metallic materials, such as copper, aluminum, or their alloys. These materials possess excellent thermal conductivity, facilitating rapid heat transfer. The thickness, shape, and arrangement density of the heat exchange fins can be designed according to actual needs, such as using sheet-like, finned, or corrugated structures to optimize the balance between heat exchange surface area and fluid flow resistance. The number of heat exchange fins can be one, multiple, or even multiple arrays to meet different heat dissipation requirements and space constraints.

[0081] When the heat exchange fins are located within the heat exchange channel, they can directly contact the flowing hot water source, utilizing the convective heat transfer characteristics of the fluid to improve heat absorption or release efficiency. When they are located on the outer wall of the hot water tank 220, heat is transferred from inside the tank to the fins via heat conduction, and then the fins remove the heat through air convection or other cooling media, effectively improving heat dissipation. The heat exchange fins can not only be located on the outer wall of the hot water tank 220, but can also extend along the length of the tank. Specifically, extending the heat exchange fins along the length of the tank significantly increases the effective heat transfer area, further improving the heat exchange efficiency between the hot water tank 220 and the surrounding environment.

[0082] When heat exchange fins extend along their length, they can be arranged in a single continuous form or in segments. A single continuous form ensures the integrity of the heat exchange fin structure and the continuity of heat conduction, reduces thermal resistance, and thus improves overall heat exchange efficiency. Segmented arrangement, on the other hand, helps improve the uniformity of the heat source flow, reduces local overheating or uneven cooling, and enhances the temperature stability of the system.

[0083] In addition, the design of the heat exchange fins extending along the length of the heat exchange tank 220 helps to make full use of the space resources on the surface of the heat exchange tank 220, so that the water purifier water treatment equipment 10 can achieve heat dissipation over a larger area while maintaining a compact size.

[0084] Furthermore, the design of the heat exchange fins can also consider surface treatment technologies, such as anodizing, spraying, or plating, to enhance corrosion resistance and extend service life. The rational arrangement of the heat exchange fins not only optimizes the heat exchange process between the water source and the water tank 220, but also reduces the overall temperature fluctuation of the water tank, improving the stability and response speed of temperature regulation.

[0085] By introducing heat exchange fins, the heat exchange capacity of the temperature control device 200 is further enhanced. Especially when the hot water source flow rate is low or the ambient temperature is high, it can effectively compensate for insufficient heat dissipation, improving the overall performance and user experience of the water treatment equipment 10. At the same time, thanks to the increased heat exchange area of ​​the heat exchange fins, more efficient temperature control and energy utilization can be achieved while ensuring the miniaturization of the equipment.

[0086] In one embodiment, the water treatment device 10 further includes a water storage device 100, which includes a cold water tank 110 thermally coupled to the working end of the heat exchanger 210. In this embodiment, the working end of the heat exchanger 210 is thermally coupled to the cold water tank 110 to cool the cold water tank 110. The principle behind this design is to transfer the low temperature of the working end to the cold water tank 110 through an effective heat conduction mechanism, thereby achieving the function of cooling the water source in the tank.

[0087] The heat exchanger 210's working end directly couples with the cold water tank 110, forming an effective heat exchange interface that ensures heat flows from inside the cold water tank 110 to the working end of the heat exchanger 210. This heat conduction process relies on the excellent thermal conductivity of the heat exchanger 210's material; for example, metals with high thermal conductivity, such as copper or aluminum, can be selected as the main material of the heat exchanger 210. The advantage of this material selection is that it not only quickly removes heat from the cold water tank 110 but also reduces energy loss during the heat exchange process, improving the overall cooling effect.

[0088] In practical implementation, the cold water tank 110 can be designed with a double-layer structure. The inner cavity is made of a material with good thermal conductivity, while the outer layer is covered with insulation material to prevent external heat from entering. This double-layer structure design ensures cooling efficiency while also improving the system's energy utilization efficiency. Furthermore, the size and shape of the cold water tank 110 can be flexibly adjusted according to user needs. For example, the cold water tank 110 can be designed as a cylinder, square, or other shapes that meet space requirements to adapt to different usage scenarios.

[0089] The coupling effect between the working end of the heat exchanger 210 and the cold water tank 110 is also affected by the fluid flow state. Therefore, when designing the water flow channel of the cold water tank 110, the flow channel shape can be optimized to increase the turbulence of the water flow and improve the heat exchange efficiency. Specifically, it can be designed as a spiral or slit shape, which can increase the residence time of the fluid in the cold water tank 110, promote more efficient heat exchange, and thus achieve a more rapid cooling effect.

[0090] In one embodiment, the cold water tank 110 includes a refrigeration section 111 and a cold storage section 112, and the refrigeration section 111 and the cold storage section 112 are connected. The refrigeration section 111 is thermally coupled to the cold conduction pipeline to form an overall temperature regulation structure.

[0091] Specifically, the refrigeration unit 111 primarily functions to cool the water source. Through thermal coupling with the cooling pipes, the refrigeration unit 111 effectively transfers the cooling energy from the heat exchange structure into the water within the water storage device 100, achieving a rapid decrease in water temperature. During the cooling process, the water source experiences a temperature reduction as it passes through the refrigeration unit 111, forming chilled water.

[0092] The chilled water then flows or is transferred to a cold storage section 112, which is connected to the refrigeration section 111, for preservation and storage. The cold storage section 112, as a storage area for chilled water, effectively maintains a stable water temperature, preventing rapid increases in temperature due to fluctuations in the ambient temperature, thereby ensuring that the water temperature at the outlet of the water treatment equipment 10 remains within the required constant low-temperature range. The capacity and shape of the cold storage section 112 can be designed according to actual needs to achieve long-term chilled water preservation without significantly increasing the equipment volume.

[0093] The interconnected design of the refrigeration unit 111 and the cold storage unit 112 allows the cold water generated by the refrigeration unit 111 to flow smoothly into the cold storage unit 112. At the same time, the cold water in the cold storage unit 112 can also be returned or transported to the outlet of the water treatment equipment 10 by flow when needed, thereby ensuring that the temperature of the water source taken by the user is constant and comfortable.

[0094] Through the partitioned design of the refrigeration unit 111 and the cold storage unit 112, the water treatment equipment 10 can achieve the dual functions of "instant cooling" and "cold water storage and insulation." This satisfies users' needs for rapid cooling while ensuring a continuous supply of chilled water through the cold storage unit 112, thus improving the equipment's ease of use and energy efficiency. Furthermore, the refrigeration unit 111 focuses on the cooling process, while the cold storage unit 112 focuses on chilled water storage; this clear division of labor facilitates optimized system thermal management and control strategies.

[0095] Furthermore, the water storage device 100 also includes a first water storage pump 120, which is connected to both the refrigeration section 111 and the cold storage section 112, and the refrigeration section 111 and the cold storage section 112 are interconnected. By providing the first water storage pump 120, the water source inside the water storage device 100 can be actively driven to circulate between the refrigeration section 111 and the cold storage section 112. This circulation mechanism promotes the uniform distribution and transfer of water temperature, effectively avoiding uneven temperature or local overcooling or overheating within the refrigeration section 111 and the cold storage section 112, thereby improving the overall temperature control efficiency and system stability.

[0096] Specifically, the driving action of the first water pump 120 enables the water source cooled by the refrigeration unit 111 to be quickly transported to the cold storage unit 112 for cold water storage. At the same time, the cold water in the cold storage unit 112 can also flow back to the refrigeration unit 111 for recooling, forming a closed loop. This design not only accelerates the rate of water temperature drop but also improves refrigeration efficiency.

[0097] The type of the first water storage pump 120 can also be varied, such as a centrifugal pump, diaphragm pump, or gear pump. The specific selection can be optimized based on the pump's reliability, energy consumption level, and ease of maintenance. Using a high-efficiency and energy-saving pump not only reduces operating costs but also ensures the long-term stable operation of the system.

[0098] In addition, in one embodiment, the water storage device 100 further includes a second water storage pump 130, which is connected to the cold storage section 112 and used to pump out cold water. The second water storage pump 130 enables the cold water in the cold storage section 112 to be effectively extracted and transported to the outlet of the water treatment equipment 10 or other parts that require low-temperature water, realizing the output and utilization of cold water. The second water storage pump 130 can intelligently adjust the flow rate according to the user's water demand, ensuring the stability of water supply and the constantness of water temperature. Through the coordinated work of the first water storage pump 120 and the second water storage pump 130, the cooling water circulation and cold water output inside the water storage device 100 are efficiently coordinated, ensuring both the dynamic balance of heat transfer and cold water storage between the cooling section 111 and the cold storage section 112, and achieving a stable output of cold water.

[0099] Specifically, the water treatment device 10 also includes a filter cartridge assembly 300 for installing an external water purification filter cartridge. The purified water end of the filter cartridge assembly 300 is connected to the water storage device 100, preferably to the cooling unit 111. This design aims to further enhance the water treatment capacity and user experience of the water treatment device 10 through a highly efficient filter cartridge system.

[0100] The filter cartridge assembly 300 includes a filter cartridge mounting base 310 and a filter cartridge booster pump 320. The filter cartridge mounting base 310 is used to securely mount various types of water purification filter cartridges, ensuring the filter cartridges remain stable during operation and can withstand water flow pressure. Simultaneously, the design of the filter cartridge mounting base 310 should facilitate user replacement of filter cartridges, reducing maintenance difficulty. Specifically, the filter cartridge mounting base 310 can be designed with a snap-on or screw-on fixing mechanism, allowing for quick disassembly and replacement by the user, and effectively preventing leakage.

[0101] The filter cartridge booster pump 320 is connected before the inlet end of the filter cartridge mounting base 310 to increase the inlet water pressure, especially when used with reverse osmosis (RO) membrane filter cartridges. RO membrane filter cartridges have high requirements for inlet water pressure; therefore, the booster pump can effectively increase the water pressure entering the filter cartridge, ensuring the working efficiency and water purification capacity of the RO membrane filter cartridge.

[0102] In practical applications, the design of the filter element assembly 300 can also consider setting multiple filter elements to achieve more comprehensive water treatment. In the above technical solution, the water treatment equipment 10 is also equipped with a filter element assembly 300 for installing external water purification filter elements, and the purified water end (i.e., output end) of the filter element assembly 300 is connected to the water storage device 100. This design fully considers the efficient use of filter elements and the optimization of the overall system performance, aiming to improve the water purification effect and the adaptability of the system.

[0103] Specifically, the filter cartridge assembly 300 includes a filter cartridge mounting base 310 and a filter cartridge booster pump 320. The filter cartridge mounting base 310 provides a stable and sealed mounting platform for installing different types of water purification filter cartridges, especially suitable for high-efficiency filtration elements such as reverse osmosis (RO) membrane filter cartridges. The filter cartridge booster pump 320 is connected before the inlet end of the filter cartridge mounting base 310. Its purpose is to increase the water pressure entering the filter cartridge by utilizing the pressure boosting effect of the booster pump, thereby ensuring that the filtration effect meets the expected water quality standards.

[0104] This booster pump is particularly suitable for use in RO membrane filter cartridges. RO membrane filter cartridges typically require high inlet water pressure to achieve effective filtration performance. By installing a booster pump before the filter cartridge, insufficient water pressure caused by pipeline resistance and pressure loss in the system can be effectively overcome, ensuring that the RO membrane filter cartridge operates within its optimal pressure range. This improves filtration efficiency, extends the filter cartridge's lifespan, and enhances the quality of the effluent.

[0105] In practical implementation, the filter element booster pump 320 can be of various types, such as a miniature centrifugal pump, a diaphragm pump, or a gear pump. The advantages of using a diaphragm pump are its compact structure, low noise, good corrosion resistance, and suitability for continuous operation environments.

[0106] Furthermore, the filter cartridge holder 310 should be designed with versatility in mind, supporting different types and sizes of filter cartridges to facilitate user selection and replacement according to actual needs. Filter cartridge holders are typically made of corrosion-resistant, hygienic materials, such as food-grade plastics or stainless steel, to ensure safety and durability during long-term use.

[0107] Specifically, the main unit structure 400 serves as the mounting carrier for installing the water storage device 100, the temperature control device 200, and the filter element assembly 300. The main unit structure 400 not only provides robust mechanical support for each functional component but also forms the overall external frame of the equipment, ensuring the rational layout and secure fixation of each part.

[0108] The main unit structure 400 can internally include a middle frame and a cover plate. The middle frame serves as the internal skeleton, supporting and securing the various functional modules. The middle frame structure is typically made of metal or high-strength engineering plastics to ensure structural rigidity and durability. The middle frame has pre-drilled mounting holes and slots to facilitate precise positioning and secure installation of components such as the water storage device 100, temperature control device 200, and filter element assembly 300. By rationally designing the middle frame structure, space wastage between components can be effectively reduced, achieving a compact internal structure and improving overall space utilization.

[0109] The cover and middle frame are detachably connected, facilitating routine maintenance and component replacement. This connection can be achieved using screws, snap-fit ​​connections, or magnetic attachment, depending on the specific usage environment and maintenance needs. Screw-fixed connections offer a stable structure suitable for applications requiring frequent disassembly and reassembly; snap-fit ​​connections are simple and quick, ideal for user-managed maintenance; and magnetic attachments enhance both ease of installation and removal and overall aesthetics. The detachable cover design allows users or maintenance personnel to easily open the equipment for filter replacement, internal cleaning, or troubleshooting, significantly improving the usability and maintenance efficiency of the water treatment equipment 10.

[0110] In addition, the main structure 400 can also be equipped with a heat insulation layer or sealing strip to enhance the equipment's heat preservation performance and waterproof and dustproof capabilities, further improving the stability and service life of the water treatment equipment 10. The choice of shell material can also vary depending on the application environment, such as using environmentally friendly and durable materials like ABS plastic and polycarbonate, which have good corrosion resistance and mechanical strength, while also meeting the aesthetic requirements of the appearance design.

[0111] It should be noted that the size and shape of the main unit structure 400 can be optimized based on the volume and layout of the internal components. The size can be compact, medium, or large, and can be customized according to the installation environment and user needs. In the compact design, the housing is reduced in size through modular integration, making it easy to install on a desktop or kitchen countertop; the medium design balances performance and space, making it suitable for home and office environments; and the large design is suitable for occasions with high requirements for cooling capacity and water treatment capabilities.

[0112] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0113] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0114] In the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0115] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the embodiments of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0116] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A water treatment device, characterized in that, include: A temperature control device includes a heat exchanger and a hot water tank. The hot water tank is provided with a heat exchange channel for conveying a hot water source, and the heat exchange channel is connected to the heat exchanger. The heat exchange channel includes multiple bends, and the hot water source is thermally coupled to the heat dissipation end of the heat exchanger through the hot water tank.

2. The water treatment equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hot water exchange tank also includes multiple flow guides, which are arranged at an angle to the direction from the input end to the output end of the hot water exchange tank, and the multiple flow guides are arranged sequentially along the direction to form the bent section.

3. The water treatment equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The multiple flow guides are arranged alternately.

4. The water treatment equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hot water exchange tank also includes a pipe section, which is connected to the input end and the output end of the hot water exchange tank respectively, and a plurality of the bends are arranged along the extension direction of the pipe section.

5. The water treatment equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, The pipeline section includes at least one of a spiral structure and a disc structure.

6. The water treatment equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The temperature control device further includes heat exchange fins, which are connected to the hot water tank and are at least partially located within the heat exchange channel and / or on the outer wall of the hot water tank, and are thermally coupled to the hot water source.

7. The water treatment equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water treatment equipment also includes a water storage device, which includes a cold water tank that is thermally coupled to the working end of the heat exchanger.

8. The water treatment equipment according to claim 7, characterized in that, The water storage device includes a refrigeration section and a cold storage section, the refrigeration section being connected to the cold storage section, and the refrigeration section being thermally coupled to the working end of the heat exchanger.

9. The water treatment equipment according to claim 8, characterized in that, The water storage device further includes a first water storage pump, which is connected to the refrigeration unit and the cold storage unit respectively, and the refrigeration unit and the cold storage unit are connected in communication. And / or the water storage device further includes a second water storage pump, which is connected to the cold storage section and is used to pump cold water outward.

10. The water treatment equipment according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The water treatment equipment also includes a filter cartridge assembly for installing an external water purification filter cartridge.

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