Integrated valve block and gas water heater

Abstract

The utility model relates to gas water heater technical field, and specifically disclose a kind of integrated valve group and gas water heater, integrated valve group includes: water mixing tank, restrictor, control valve and communicating pipe fitting;Water mixing tank is communicated with communicating pipe fitting by bypass flow path, control valve is used to control the water flow of bypass flow path and break;Restrictor is used to limit the water flow that flows out through communicating pipe fitting;Wherein, restrictor includes first valve seat, control valve includes second valve seat, at least one of first valve seat and second valve seat is integrally arranged with at least part of water mixing tank.The present application solves the problem that the water heater in the prior art is difficult to maintain at a suitable outlet temperature during frequent start-stop.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of gas water heater technology, and more specifically, to an integrated valve assembly and a gas water heater. Background Technology

[0002] Gas-fired instantaneous water heaters are widely popular as common household water heating devices due to their rapid heating speed and clean water production. However, a significant "cold and hot water" problem exists during use. When the user turns off the tap midway, the water heater shuts off, but the high-temperature flue gas in the heat exchanger continues to transfer heat to the remaining water, causing the water temperature to rise sharply. When the user turns the tap back on, the first water to flow out is overheated hot water (scalding water). Subsequently, because the water heater needs time to heat the newly flowing cold water during ignition and startup, and the heat exchanger has not yet reached a stable thermal equilibrium, the outflowing water is not fully heated, forming a period of low-temperature cold water before finally transitioning to the set target temperature, causing temperature fluctuations.

[0003] To address the aforementioned issues, existing technology provides a water storage bypass device with a mixing tank, located downstream of the heat exchanger. A connecting pipe is installed between the mixing tank and the inlet pipe, and a bypass valve is installed on the connecting pipe to divert some of the cold water in the inlet pipe. The mixing tank serves to store heat energy. After a second startup of the water storage bypass device, the water in the heat exchanger and the cold water in the connecting pipe mix in the mixing tank to reduce the temperature rise during water outages and subsequent temperature drops. During production and assembly, a bypass valve needs to be installed on the inlet pipe, the mixing tank on the outlet pipe, and a bypass pipe needs to be installed between the bypass valve and the mixing tank. This requires numerous components and is a cumbersome production and assembly process. Furthermore, during the first use after a long water outage (also known as a first startup), due to the high load demand, the time required to heat to the target set temperature is long, and the outlet water temperature may not reach the target set temperature. Utility Model Content

[0004] The first technical problem solved by this utility model is to provide an integrated valve assembly that can simultaneously meet the constant temperature performance of the water heater during both primary and secondary water use, while reducing assembly parts and simplifying the production and assembly process.

[0005] The second technical problem solved by this utility model is to provide a gas water heater that can reduce the number of assembly parts of related valve bodies and water tanks, simplify the production and assembly process, and at the same time meet the constant temperature performance for both primary and secondary water use.

[0006] The first technical problem mentioned above is solved by the following technical solution:

[0007] An integrated valve assembly includes: a mixing tank, a flow restrictor valve, a control valve, and a connecting pipe; the mixing tank and the connecting pipe are connected via a bypass flow path, the control valve is used to control the flow of water in the bypass flow path; the flow restrictor valve is used to limit the flow rate of water flowing out through the connecting pipe; wherein, the flow restrictor valve includes a first valve seat, the control valve includes a second valve seat, and at least one of the first valve seat and the second valve seat is integrated with at least a portion of the mixing tank.

[0008] Compared with the prior art, the integrated valve assembly of this application has the following advantages:

[0009] In this solution, the flow limiting valve is used to restrict the water flow rate through the connecting pipe. This is beneficial when using the water for the first time after a long water outage, as the outlet water temperature may not reach the target set temperature. By controlling the flow limiting valve, the water flow rate in the main water circuit of the water heater is reduced, thereby reducing the amount of cold water flowing through the heat exchanger per unit time and improving heat exchange efficiency. The control valve is used to control the water flow in the bypass path. In the scenario of a gas water heater being briefly shut down and restarted, it is beneficial to open the control valve to allow a portion of the water to flow into the mixing tank, while another portion flows into the heat exchanger from the inlet pipe. As a result, the high-temperature water remaining in the heat exchanger will flow into the mixing tank, while another portion flows into the heat exchanger from the inlet pipe. Specifically, the high-temperature water remaining in the heat exchanger flows into the mixing tank and mixes with the cold water diverted by the control valve, neutralizing the high-temperature water generated by residual heat in the heat exchanger after a brief shutdown, thus reducing the temperature rise during water outages. Subsequently, during the burner startup and normal heating process, the water flow to the heat exchanger through the inlet pipe is reduced due to diversion by the control valve. To ensure a constant outlet water temperature, the water flow in the heat exchanger is heated to a higher temperature to store more heat energy. This allows for the neutralization of the cold water generated before the burner can be heated before normal heating by delaying or closing the control valve, thereby reducing the temperature drop during water outages. This application integrates at least one of the flow-limiting valve and the control valve with at least a portion of the mixing tank, reducing assembly components and simplifying the production process. It also helps to reduce the volume occupied by the integrated valve assembly and improve its compactness. This allows for the reduction of assembly components, simplification of the production assembly process, and simultaneous satisfaction of the water heater's constant temperature performance during both primary and secondary water use.

[0010] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the mixing tank, the connecting pipe, the first valve seat, and the second valve seat are integrally injection molded.

[0011] In one embodiment, a first valve seat is integrally injection molded on the outer wall of the connecting pipe; and / or, a second valve seat is integrally injection molded on at least a portion of the outer wall of the mixing tank; and / or, the connecting pipe is integrally injection molded on at least a portion of the outer wall of the mixing tank.

[0012] In one embodiment, the connecting pipe is integrally injection molded on at least a portion of the outer wall of the mixing tank, the length direction of the connecting pipe is consistent with the length direction of the mixing tank, the first valve seat is integrally injection molded on the outer wall of the connecting pipe, the second valve seat is integrally injection molded on at least a portion of the outer wall of the mixing tank, and the first valve seat and the second valve seat are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the connecting pipe.

[0013] In one embodiment, the two ports of the connecting pipe are spaced apart along the length of the connecting pipe; and / or, the two ports of the mixing tank are spaced apart along the length of the connecting pipe; and / or, the ports of the connecting pipe and the mixing tank located on the same side are spaced apart along the length of the connecting pipe.

[0014] In one embodiment, the connecting pipe includes a first arcuate outer wall, and at least a portion of the mixing tank includes a second arcuate outer wall, the first arcuate outer wall being integrally formed on the second arcuate outer wall; wherein a portion of the first valve seat is integrally formed with the first arcuate outer wall, and another portion of the first valve seat is integrally formed with the connection between the first arcuate outer wall and the second arcuate outer wall, and with the second arcuate outer wall; and / or, a portion of the second valve seat is integrally formed with the second arcuate outer wall, and another portion of the second valve seat is integrally formed with the connection between the first arcuate outer wall and the second arcuate outer wall, and with the first arcuate outer wall.

[0015] In one embodiment, the mixing tank includes a tank body having a tank opening, at least one of a first valve seat and a second valve seat being integrally formed with the tank body; and a cover being disposed at the tank opening, the cover being welded to the tank body by ultrasonic welding or friction welding.

[0016] In one embodiment, the can opening is located at the top of the can body; and / or, the outer surface of the end of the can body away from the can opening is spherical; and / or, at least a portion of the outer surface of the lid is spherical.

[0017] In one embodiment, the integrated valve assembly further includes: at least two baffles, which are spaced apart along the length of the mixing tank and disposed within the mixing tank, each baffle having a plurality of baffle holes to turbulent the water flow entering the mixing tank; and / or, at least a portion of the flow-limiting valve is a pilot-operated solenoid valve; and / or, at least a portion of the control valve is a solenoid valve switching valve or a water proportional valve; and / or, the flow-limiting valve is disposed upstream of the control valve.

[0018] In one embodiment, the flow restrictor includes a first valve head and a flow restrictor. The flow restrictor is disposed inside the connecting pipe and divides the connecting pipe into a first flow channel and a second flow channel. The first valve head is used to cooperate with the flow restrictor to control the flow of water in the second flow channel.

[0019] In one embodiment, the flow restrictor is connected to the first valve seat, the first valve seat is provided with a first valve port with adjustable opening, and a second flow channel is provided between the inner wall of the first valve port and the flow restrictor. The flow rate of the second flow channel is L1, and the flow rate of the water in the connecting pipe is L2. The ratio of L1 to L2 is in the range of 19% to 55%.

[0020] The second technical problem mentioned above is solved by the following technical solution:

[0021] A gas water heater includes: the integrated valve assembly provided above; a first inlet pipe section, a second inlet pipe section, and a heat exchanger, wherein the two ends of a connecting pipe are respectively connected to the first inlet pipe section and the second inlet pipe section, the first inlet pipe section is connected to a water source, and the second inlet pipe section is connected to the heat exchanger.

[0022] Compared with the prior art, the gas water heater of this utility model has the following advantages: By adjusting the opening or closing state of the limit valve and the control valve, even when the gas water heater is turned on twice, the fluctuation of the outlet water temperature can still be reduced through the coordinated regulation of the limit valve and the control valve, thereby keeping the outlet water temperature as constant as possible. Furthermore, the integration of at least one of the flow-limiting valve and the control valve with at least part of the mixing tank reduces the overall volume, optimizes the space layout, facilitates manufacturing, and reduces assembly difficulty and manufacturing costs. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the present invention. The illustrative embodiments of the present invention and their descriptions are used to explain the present invention and do not constitute an undue limitation of the present invention. In the drawings:

[0024] Figure 1 A first-view structural schematic diagram of the integrated valve assembly according to the present invention is shown;

[0025] Figure 2 A second-view structural schematic diagram of the integrated valve assembly according to the present invention is shown;

[0026] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the structure of the flow-limiting valve and the flow-limiting element in the integrated valve assembly according to the present invention is shown;

[0027] Figure 4 It shows that according to Figure 3 Enlarged view of section A;

[0028] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the baffle plate in the integrated valve assembly according to the present invention is shown;

[0029] Figure 6A schematic diagram of the control valve in the integrated valve assembly according to the present invention is shown;

[0030] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a gas water heater according to the present invention is shown;

[0031] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the gas water heater according to the present invention is shown;

[0032] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of a first embodiment of the flow-limiting valve of a gas water heater according to the present invention is shown;

[0033] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the flow-limiting valve of a gas water heater according to the present invention is shown.

[0034] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0035] 100. Water inlet pipe; 102. First water inlet pipe section; 103. Second water inlet pipe section;

[0036] 200. Heat exchanger; 110. Inlet water temperature sensor; 120. Water flow sensor;

[0037] 300. Outlet water pipe; 310. Water tank temperature sensor; 320. Outlet water temperature sensor;

[0038] 410. Mixing tank; 411. Tank body; 412. Cover; 4110. Baffle plate; 4111. Baffle hole; 413. Reinforcing rib;

[0039] 101. Connecting pipe fittings;

[0040] 430. Flow limiting valve; 431. First valve seat; 432. First valve head; 4310. First valve chamber; 4311. First valve port; 433. Pilot channel; 434. Pilot cavity; 435. Diaphragm; 4350. Pilot orifice; 436. First valve core;

[0041] 440. Control valve; 441. Second valve seat; 4410. Second valve chamber; 4411. Second valve port; 442. Second valve head; 443. Second valve core;

[0042] 450. Flow limiting component; 452. First flow limiting section; 453. Second flow limiting section; 420. Bypass flow path;

[0043] 510, First flow channel; 520, Second flow channel. Detailed Implementation

[0044] 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, and 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.

[0045] During operation, the outlet water temperature of a gas water heater fluctuates due to the start-up delay of the heat exchanger or residual high temperature, resulting in excessively high or low outlet water temperatures. Existing water heaters use a mixing tank to mix some cold water with the residual high-temperature water in the tank to lower the outlet water temperature. However, this method only regulates the flow rate of cold water into the mixing tank and cannot regulate the flow rate into the heat exchanger. When the water heater frequently starts and stops, the heat exchanger's slow response and inability to heat the cold water in time lead to a sudden drop in outlet water temperature, affecting the user experience. Therefore, to solve the above technical problems, this application provides a gas water heater.

[0046] Please refer to Figures 1 to 6 The gas water heater also includes: a mixing tank 410, a flow limiting valve 430, a control valve 440, and a connecting pipe 101; the mixing tank 410 and the connecting pipe 101 are connected by a bypass flow path 420, and the control valve 440 is used to control the flow of water through the bypass flow path 420; the flow limiting valve 430 is used to limit the flow rate of water flowing out through the connecting pipe 101; wherein, the flow limiting valve 430 includes a first valve seat 431, and the control valve 440 includes a second valve seat 441, and at least one of the first valve seat 431 and the second valve seat 441 is integrated with at least a portion of the mixing tank 410.

[0047] This application incorporates an integrated valve assembly with a flow-limiting valve 430. During initial water use or when water enters at low temperatures in winter, the flow-limiting valve 430 can be actively or partially closed, reducing the total outflow from the connecting pipe 101 and consequently decreasing the outflow of cold water. Specifically, the water flowing out of the connecting pipe 101 will flow into the heat exchanger 200. Since the heat capacity of the heat exchanger 200 is constant, the smaller the amount of water flowing through per unit time, the faster the water temperature rises. After ignition, the set temperature can be reached in a very short time, significantly shortening the duration of cold water output. During the water shut-off and restart phase, if closing the control valve 440 alone cannot completely prevent temperature drop (due to insufficient high-temperature water stored in the mixing tank 410), the flow-limiting valve 430 can be briefly closed for a certain period, causing a sudden drop in the cold water flow into the heat exchanger 200. The burner then rapidly heats a small amount of cold water to a high temperature under low flow conditions, effectively compensating for the temperature drop caused by insufficient energy storage.

[0048] Specifically, in this embodiment, the flow limiting valve 430 is beneficial for reducing the water flow in the main water circuit of the water heater when the water temperature does not reach the target set temperature during the first use after a long water outage. This reduces the amount of cold water flowing through the heat exchanger 200 per unit time, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency. The control valve 440 is used to control the flow of water in the bypass path. In the scenario of a gas water heater being briefly shut down and restarted, it is beneficial to open the control valve 440 to allow a portion of the water to flow into the mixing tank 410, while another portion of the water flows into the heat exchanger 200 from the inlet pipe. As a result, the high-temperature water remaining in the heat exchanger 200 will flow into the mixing tank 410, while another portion of the water flows into the heat exchanger 200 from the inlet pipe. Specifically, the high-temperature water remaining in the heat exchanger 200 flows into the mixing tank 410 and mixes with the cold water diverted by the control valve 440. This neutralizes the high-temperature water generated by residual heat in the heat exchanger 200 after a brief shutdown, thereby reducing the temperature rise during water outage. Subsequently, during the process from burner startup to normal heating, the water flow to the heat exchanger 200 through the inlet pipe is reduced due to diversion by the control valve 440. To ensure that the outlet water temperature remains constant, the water flow in the heat exchanger 200 will be heated to a higher temperature to store more heat energy. This allows the control valve 440 to be adjusted by a delay or closed to neutralize the cold water generated before the burner can heat up normally, thereby reducing the temperature drop during water outage. Furthermore, by integrating at least one of the flow-limiting valve 430 and the control valve 440 with at least a portion of the mixing tank, this application can reduce assembly parts, simplify the production process, and also reduce the volume occupied by the integrated valve assembly, thereby improving the compactness of the integrated valve assembly. This enables the water heater to meet the constant temperature performance requirements for both primary and secondary water use while reducing assembly parts and simplifying the production assembly process.

[0049] In addition, the flow limiting valve 430 includes a first valve seat 431 and the control valve 440 includes a second valve seat 441. At least one of the first valve seat 431 and the second valve seat 441 is integrated with at least part of the mixing tank 410, which can reduce the overall volume occupied, optimize the spatial layout, facilitate production and manufacturing, and reduce assembly difficulty and manufacturing cost.

[0050] Specifically, the first valve seat 431 can be integrated with at least a portion of the mixing tank 410, or the second valve seat 441 can be integrated with at least a portion of the mixing tank 410, or both the first valve seat 431 and the second valve seat 441 can be integrated with at least a portion of the mixing tank 410. With these integrated configurations, a separate bypass pipeline is unnecessary, thus reducing the overall volume occupied and lowering the risk of leakage.

[0051] The integrated valve assembly of this application is applicable to gas water heaters. The gas water heater of this application includes an inlet pipe 100, a heat exchanger 200, and an outlet pipe 300 connected in sequence. A portion of the inlet pipe 100 is a connecting fitting 101. A mixing tank 410 is installed on and connected to the outlet pipe 300. The mixing tank 410 is connected to the inlet pipe 100 through a bypass flow path 420. A control valve 440 is used to control the opening and closing of the bypass flow path 420 and the mixing tank 410. A flow limiting valve 430 is used to limit the flow rate of water flowing from the inlet pipe 100 into the bypass flow path 420 and the heat exchanger 200.

[0052] In the normal operating state of the gas water heater of this application, the flow limiting valve 430 is fully open, and the control valve 440 dynamically opens and closes according to the water temperature in the mixing tank 410 and the user-set temperature: when the temperature of the hot water stored in the mixing tank 410 is higher than the set value, the control valve 440 opens, and some cold water flows into the mixing tank 410 through the bypass path, mixes with the high-temperature water flowing out of the heat exchanger 200, and is then output from the outlet pipe 300, reducing the temperature rise during water outage; when the user turns off the water and then turns it back on, the control valve 440 quickly closes, blocking the bypass path, so that all the high-temperature water stored in the mixing tank 410 is released, avoiding the mixing and dilution of temperature by hot and cold water, thereby alleviating the temperature drop during water outage.

[0053] Specifically, in this application, the flow limiting valve 430 is installed on the inlet pipe 100 to force the flow of the main water circuit to be throttled; the control valve 440 is installed in the bypass flow path 420 to control the opening and closing of the bypass flow path 420. The control valve 440 is a normally closed solenoid valve that is only opened when needed, allowing some cold water to bypass the heat exchanger 200 and directly enter the mixing tank 410 to achieve the mixing of cold and hot water.

[0054] In this application, the water inlet pipe 100 includes a first water inlet pipe section 102 and a second water inlet pipe section 103 connected in sequence. The first water inlet pipe section 102 is connected to a water source, and the second water inlet pipe section 103 is connected to a heat exchanger 200. The integrated valve group also includes a connecting pipe fitting 101. The two ends of the connecting pipe fitting 101 are connected to the first water inlet pipe section 102 and the second water inlet pipe section 103, respectively. The connecting pipe fitting 101 is connected to the mixing tank 410 through a bypass flow path 420. The flow limiting valve 430 is used to limit the flow rate of water flowing into the bypass flow path 420 and the heat exchanger 200 from the connecting pipe fitting 101. At least a portion of the mixing tank 410, the connecting pipe fitting 101, the first valve seat 431 and the second valve seat 441 are integrally injection molded.

[0055] By using an injection molding method that integrates at least a portion of the mixing tank 410, the connecting pipe 101, the first valve seat 431, and the second valve seat 441 into a single unit, the overall volume can be reduced more easily. This eliminates the need for a separate bypass pipe structure, reduces the risk of leakage, and minimizes the installation difficulty caused by assembling the flow restrictor valve 430 and the control valve 440 in the prior art.

[0056] Specifically, the first valve seat 431 is integrally injection molded on the outer wall of the connecting pipe 101; and / or, the second valve seat 441 is integrally injection molded on at least a portion of the outer wall of the mixing tank 410; and / or, the connecting pipe 101 is integrally injection molded on at least a portion of the outer wall of the mixing tank 410.

[0057] Specifically, the first valve seat 431 is integrally injection molded on the outer wall of the connecting pipe 101, which makes it easier for the position of the flow limiting valve 430 to correspond with that of the connecting pipe 101, so that the flow limiting valve 430 can better limit the water flow of the inlet pipe 100.

[0058] The second valve seat 441 is integrally injection molded onto at least part of the outer wall of the mixing tank 410, which facilitates the alignment of the control valve 440 with the mixing tank 410, so as to better control the on / off state between the bypass flow path 420 and the mixing tank 410.

[0059] Integrating the connecting pipe 101 into at least part of the outer wall of the mixing tank 410 by injection molding facilitates the tight connection between the connecting pipe 101 and at least part of the mixing tank 410, thereby reducing the overall volume and optimizing the overall spatial layout.

[0060] In this application, the connecting pipe 101 is integrally injection molded onto at least a portion of the outer wall of the mixing tank 410, with the length direction of the connecting pipe 101 aligned with the length direction of the mixing tank 410. The first valve seat 431 is integrally injection molded onto the outer wall of the connecting pipe 101, and the second valve seat 441 is integrally injection molded onto at least a portion of the outer wall of the mixing tank 410. The first valve seat 431 and the second valve seat 441 are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the connecting pipe 101. This arrangement facilitates a more compact overall connection between the connecting pipe 101, the mixing tank 410, the first valve seat 431, and the second valve seat 441, thus optimizing the spatial layout.

[0061] In this application, the two ports of the connecting pipe 101 are arranged at intervals along the length of the connecting pipe 101; and / or, the two ports of the mixing tank 410 are arranged at intervals along the length of the connecting pipe 101; and / or, the ports of the connecting pipe 101 and the mixing tank 410 located on the same side are arranged at intervals along the length of the connecting pipe 101. This port arrangement facilitates the connection of the connecting pipe 101 with other components and the connection of the mixing tank 410 with other components. Furthermore, by staggering the arrangement of the ports of the connecting pipe 101 and the mixing tank 410 located on the same side along the length of the connecting pipe 101, the connection and installation of the ports of the connecting pipe 101 and the mixing tank 410 on the same side with other connecting components is facilitated, thus simplifying the installation operation.

[0062] In this application, the connecting pipe 101 includes a first arc-shaped outer wall, and at least a portion of the mixing tank 410 includes a second arc-shaped outer wall, with the first arc-shaped outer wall integrally formed on the second arc-shaped outer wall. Specifically, a portion of the first valve seat 431 is integrally formed with the first arc-shaped outer wall, and another portion of the first valve seat 431 is integrally formed with the connection between the first and second arc-shaped outer walls and the second arc-shaped outer wall; and / or, a portion of the second valve seat 441 is integrally formed with the second arc-shaped outer wall, and another portion of the first valve seat 431 is integrally formed with the connection between the first and second arc-shaped outer walls and the first arc-shaped outer wall.

[0063] Specifically, by integrally molding a portion of the first valve seat 431 with the first arc-shaped outer wall, and another portion of the first valve seat 431 integrally molding the connection between the first and second arc-shaped outer walls and the second arc-shaped outer wall, the installation and connection stability of the first valve seat 431 can be better guaranteed. Furthermore, since the dimensions of the connecting pipe fitting 101 are generally smaller than those of the mixing tank 410, simply injection molding the first valve seat 431 onto the connecting pipe fitting 101 would result in an unstable position for the first valve seat 431.

[0064] Specifically, by integrally molding a portion of the second valve seat 441 with the second arc-shaped outer wall, and integrally molding another portion of the second valve seat 441 with the connection between the first and second arc-shaped outer walls and the first arc-shaped outer wall, the installation and connection stability of the second valve seat 441 can be better guaranteed. Furthermore, the size of a typical mixing tank 410 is limited; simply injection molding the second valve seat 441 onto the mixing tank 410 would result in an unstable position for the second valve seat 441.

[0065] In this application, the mixing tank 410 includes a tank body 411 and a cover 412. The tank body 411 has a tank opening, and at least one of a first valve seat 431 and a second valve seat 441 is integrally formed with the tank body 411. The cover 412 is placed over the tank opening, and the cover 412 is welded to the tank body 411 by ultrasonic welding or friction welding. This facilitates the connection stability of the tank body 411 and the cover 412, and the larger volume of the tank body 411 facilitates the integral injection molding position space and integral injection molding stability with the connecting pipe 101, the first valve seat 431, and the second valve seat 441.

[0066] In this application, the can opening is located at the top of the can body 411; and / or, the outer surface of the end of the can body 411 away from the can opening is spherical; and / or, at least a portion of the outer surface of the cover 412 is spherical.

[0067] Specifically, the use of a spherical design can effectively reduce stress concentration and ensure the overall structural stability of the mixing tank 410.

[0068] In this application, the flow limiting valve 430 includes a first valve head 432 and a flow limiting element 450. The flow limiting element 450 is disposed in the connecting pipe 101 and divides the connecting pipe 101 into a first flow channel 510 and a second flow channel 520. The first valve head 432 is used to cooperate with the flow limiting element 450 to control the flow of water in the second flow channel 520.

[0069] In this embodiment, the connecting pipe 101 is divided into a first flow channel 510 and a second flow channel 520 by a flow restrictor 450, and a first valve head 432 that can open and close the second flow channel 520 is used to achieve a flow restriction structure that enables normal flow diversion and instantaneous cutoff. Specifically, when the gas water heater is working normally, cold water flows into the heat exchanger 200 and the bypass flow channel 420 respectively through two paths according to a preset ratio to ensure a stable mixing ratio. When a second start-up or high-load condition is detected, the first valve head 432 closes the second flow channel 520, so that all cold water enters the heat exchanger 200 only through the first flow channel 510, thereby directly reducing the inlet flow of the heat exchanger 200 without changing the bypass ratio and shortening the thermal response time. This structure does not require additional pumps or complex sensors; precise flow control can be achieved solely through the action of the mechanical valve core. It has a compact structure, rapid response, and effectively suppresses the sudden drop in temperature caused by a sudden increase in flow.

[0070] Furthermore, the flow restrictor 450 divides the connecting pipe 101 into a first flow channel 510 and a second flow channel 520. The inlet end of the first flow channel 510 is connected to the second flow channel 520. At least a portion of the water flow in the second flow channel 520 is diverted to the first flow channel 510. The outlet end of the first flow channel 510 is connected to the second flow channel 520. After passing through the second flow channel 520, the water flow returns to the first flow channel 510. The flow restrictor 430 controls the flow of water in the second flow channel 520 through the first valve head 432 and the flow restrictor 450.

[0071] Specifically, the flow restrictor 450 is connected to the first valve seat 431. The first valve seat 431 is provided with an adjustable first valve port 4311. A second flow channel 520 is provided between the inner wall of the first valve port 4311 and the flow restrictor 450. The flow rate L1 in the second flow channel 520 and the flow rate L2 in the connecting pipe 101 are connected. The ratio of L1 to L2 is in the range of 19% to 55%. Specifically, by limiting the ratio of L1 to L2, the flow restrictor 430 is kept in a closed state, ensuring that sufficient water flow is available from the inlet pipe 100. Preferably, the ratio of L1 to L2 is 30%.

[0072] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the flow limiting valve 430 includes a first valve seat 431 and a first valve head 432. The first valve seat 431 is disposed on the water inlet pipe 100. The first valve seat 431 has a first valve chamber 4310 and a first valve port 4311. The first valve chamber 4310 is connected to the water inlet pipe 100 through the first valve port 4311. At least a portion of the first valve head 432 is movably disposed in the first valve chamber 4310 to adjust the opening degree of the first valve port 4311. The first valve seat 431 has a pilot channel 433 connected to the water inlet pipe 100. The first valve head 432 is a pilot-operated solenoid valve, and the pilot-operated solenoid valve has a pilot chamber 434. The pilot-operated solenoid valve includes a diaphragm 435 and a first valve core 436. The diaphragm 435 covers the pilot cavity 434, and a pilot hole 4350 is provided on the diaphragm 435. The pilot cavity 434 is connected to the pilot channel 433 through the pilot hole 4350. The diaphragm 435 is used to block or open the first valve port 4311, and the first valve core 436 is used to press against the diaphragm 435 so that the diaphragm 435 blocks the first valve port 4311. The gas water heater also includes a flow restrictor 450, which is disposed on the first valve seat 431. At least a portion of the flow restrictor 450 is located within the inlet pipe 100 to limit the water flow area within the inlet pipe 100. Further, the flow restrictor 450 is located on the side of the pilot channel 433 near the inlet end.

[0073] The first valve port 4311 serves as the throat of the main water flow channel, directly connecting to the inner cavity of the inlet pipe 100, ensuring that water must pass through this point to flow to the heat exchanger 200. The first valve head 432 is the overall actuator of the pilot-operated solenoid valve. The diaphragm 435, as a flexible sealing element, covers the pilot cavity 434 and has a pilot hole 4350. This pilot hole 4350 communicates with the pilot channel 433 inside the first valve seat 431, allowing the high-pressure water flow at the inlet end to enter the pilot cavity 434 through the pilot channel 433, creating upward pressure on the diaphragm 435. The first valve core 436 is driven by an electromagnetic coil. When energized, it moves upward, pressing the diaphragm 435 so that it is tightly pressed against the first valve port 4311, achieving complete closure of the main channel. When de-energized, the pressure in the pilot cavity 434 is released through the pilot hole 4350, and the diaphragm 435 automatically lifts under water pressure, opening the main channel.

[0074] Based on this, a flow restrictor 450 is provided on the first valve seat 431, which extends at least partially into the main water channel of the inlet pipe 100 and is located on the side of the pilot channel 433 near the inlet end. That is, before the water flows into the pilot channel 433, it first passes through the throttling effect of the flow restrictor 450 and then flows into the heat exchanger 200 or the mixing tank 410.

[0075] Specifically, the edge of the first valve port 4311 near the water inlet extends into the water inlet pipe 100 to form a flow restrictor 450. This arrangement makes the first valve seat 431 forming the first valve port 4311 and the flow restrictor 450 an integral structure, avoiding problems such as leakage or failure caused by assembly errors and loosening.

[0076] This application provides an optional embodiment in which the flow restrictor 450 includes a first flow restrictor section 452 and a second flow restrictor section 453 connected to each other. One end of the first flow restrictor section 452 is connected to the first valve seat 431. The first flow restrictor section 452 is set at a preset angle with the first flow channel 510. The second flow restrictor section 453 is bent in the downstream direction of the first flow channel 510 relative to the first flow restrictor section 452.

[0077] In this embodiment, the flow restrictor 450 adopts a bent structure combining a first flow restrictor section 452 and a second flow restrictor section 453. This allows the water flow to diffuse smoothly along the arc surface of the bent structure, effectively suppressing vortex formation. This allows the water flow to smoothly merge with the water flow on the upstream side of the bent structure, effectively reducing the impact on the water flow within the inlet pipe 100. Simultaneously, the first flow restrictor section 452 and the first flow channel 510 are set at a preset angle, guiding the water flow to a smooth direction, reducing turbulence loss, and improving flow restriction accuracy.

[0078] Specifically, the extension direction of the second flow-limiting section 453 is consistent with the extension direction of the first flow channel 510, and the extension direction of the first flow-limiting section 452 is perpendicular to the extension direction of the first flow channel 510, guiding the water flow to smoothly change direction and reducing turbulence loss.

[0079] Please refer to Figures 1 to 10 This application also provides a gas water heater, which includes the integrated valve group, the first inlet pipe section 102, the second inlet pipe section 103 and the heat exchanger 200 provided above. The two ends of the connecting pipe 101 are respectively connected to the first inlet pipe section 102 and the second inlet pipe section 103. The first inlet pipe section 102 is connected to a water source, and the second inlet pipe section 103 is connected to the heat exchanger 200.

[0080] Specifically, the gas water heater in this application includes an inlet pipe 100, a heat exchanger 200, and an outlet pipe 300 connected in sequence. A mixing tank 410 is installed on and connected to the outlet pipe 300. The mixing tank 410 is connected to the inlet pipe 100 through a bypass flow path 420. A control valve 440 is used to control the flow of water through the bypass flow path 420. A flow limiting valve 430 is used to limit the flow rate of water flowing from the inlet pipe 100 into the bypass flow path 420 and the heat exchanger 200; or, the flow limiting valve 430 is used to limit the flow rate of water flowing from the inlet pipe 100 into the heat exchanger 200.

[0081] In the normal operating state of the gas water heater of this application, the flow limiting valve 430 is fully open, and the control valve 440 dynamically opens and closes according to the water temperature in the mixing tank 410 and the user-set temperature: when the temperature of the hot water stored in the mixing tank 410 is higher than the set value, the control valve 440 opens, and some cold water flows into the mixing tank 410 through the bypass flow path 420, mixes with the high-temperature water flowing out of the heat exchanger 200, and is output from the outlet pipe 300, reducing the temperature rise during water outage; when the user turns off the water and then turns it back on, the control valve 440 quickly closes, blocking the bypass flow path 420, so that all the high-temperature water stored in the mixing tank 410 is released, avoiding the mixing and dilution of temperature by hot and cold water, thereby alleviating the temperature drop during water outage.

[0082] This application incorporates a flow-limiting valve 430. During initial water use or when water is supplied at low temperatures in winter, the flow-limiting valve 430 can be actively or partially closed, reducing the total flow rate into the inlet pipe 100 and consequently decreasing the flow rate of cold water to the heat exchanger 200. Since the heat capacity of the heat exchanger 200 is constant, the smaller the flow rate per unit time, the faster the water temperature rises. After ignition, the set temperature can be reached in a very short time, significantly shortening the duration of cold water output. During the water shut-off and restart phase, if closing the control valve 440 alone cannot completely prevent temperature drop (due to insufficient high-temperature water stored in the mixing tank 410), the flow-limiting valve 430 can be briefly closed for a certain period, causing a sharp drop in the flow rate of cold water entering the heat exchanger 200. The burner then rapidly heats a small amount of cold water to a high temperature under low flow conditions, effectively compensating for the temperature drop caused by insufficient energy storage.

[0083] According to the gas water heater provided in this application, the flow limiting valve 430 is used to limit the water flow rate flowing into the bypass flow path 420 and the heat exchanger 200 through the inlet pipe 100; or, the flow limiting valve 430 is used to limit the water flow rate flowing into the heat exchanger 200 through the inlet pipe 100, thereby achieving forced throttling of the main water flow rate; the control valve 440 is set in the bypass flow path 420 and is used to control the opening and closing of the bypass flow path 420. The control valve 440 is a normally closed solenoid valve, which is opened only when needed, allowing some cold water to bypass the heat exchanger 200 and directly enter the mixing tank 410 to achieve mixing of cold and hot water.

[0084] Specifically, such as Figure 9 and 10 As shown, the flow restrictor valve 430 is located upstream of the connection point between the bypass flow path 420 and the inlet pipe 100; or, the flow restrictor valve 430 is located downstream of the connection point between the bypass flow path 420 and the inlet pipe 100.

[0085] In this embodiment, the flow limiting valve 430 is positioned upstream or downstream of the connection point between the bypass flow path 420 and the inlet water pipe 100, corresponding to two control modes. When the flow limiting valve 430 is positioned upstream, it can simultaneously control the total water flow entering the heat exchanger 200 and the bypass flow path 420, making it more suitable for scenarios requiring an overall reduction in system flow (such as low-temperature inlet water in winter). When the flow limiting valve 430 is positioned downstream, it only affects the flow rate on the heat exchanger 200 side, while the flow rate in the bypass flow path 420 remains stable, making it more suitable for scenarios requiring a constant bypass ratio to optimize the mixing temperature. Through these two arrangements of the flow limiting valve 430, independent adjustment of the inlet water flow rate of the heat exchanger 200 is achieved, improving operational adaptability and ensuring that the flow limiting function no longer relies solely on the action of the control valve 440.

[0086] This application provides an optional embodiment in which the flow limiting valve 430 further includes a first valve seat 431, which is disposed on the water inlet pipe 100. The first valve seat 431 is provided with a first valve cavity 4310 and a first valve port 4311. The first valve cavity 4310 is connected to the water inlet pipe 100 through the first valve port 4311. At least a portion of the first valve head 432 is movably disposed in the first valve cavity 4310 to adjust the opening degree of the first valve port 4311. The flow limiting element 450 is disposed on the first valve seat 431.

[0087] In this embodiment, the first valve port 4311 serves as the throat of the main water flow channel, directly connecting to the inner cavity of the inlet pipe 100, ensuring that water must pass through this point to flow to the heat exchanger 200. By providing a first valve seat 431 with a first valve cavity 4310 and a first valve port 4311 in the inlet pipe 100, and integrating the flow restrictor 450 with it, a modular structure of the flow restrictor valve 430 is achieved. The first valve head 432 moves within the first valve cavity 4310 to adjust the opening of the first valve port 4311, enabling the flow restrictor valve 430 to have both throttling and switching functions, achieving on / off control under different operating conditions and improving control accuracy.

[0088] This application provides an optional embodiment, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the flow restrictor 450 is integrally formed with the first valve seat 431; and / or, the first valve seat 431 is provided with a pilot channel 433 that communicates with the water inlet pipe 100, the first valve head 432 is a pilot-operated solenoid valve, the pilot-operated solenoid valve is provided with a pilot chamber 434, and the flow restrictor 450 is located upstream of the pilot channel 433.

[0089] In this embodiment, the flow restrictor 450 is integrally formed with the first valve seat 431, significantly improving structural strength and manufacturing precision, and avoiding problems such as leakage or failure caused by assembly errors and loosening. Simultaneously, by providing a pilot channel 433 within the first valve seat 431, and in conjunction with a pilot-operated solenoid valve structure, the flow restrictor 430 can be driven by a low-power signal, reducing the power consumption of the solenoid coil and improving energy efficiency. Furthermore, a flow restrictor 450 is provided on the first valve seat 431, extending at least partially into the main water channel of the inlet pipe 100, and located upstream of the pilot channel 433. That is, before the water flows into the pilot channel 433, it first passes through the throttling effect of the flow restrictor 450 before flowing into the heat exchanger 200 or the mixing tank 410.

[0090] Furthermore, the pilot-operated solenoid valve includes a diaphragm 435 and a first valve core 436. The diaphragm 435 covers the pilot cavity 434 and has a pilot hole 4350. The pilot cavity 434 is connected to the pilot channel 433 through the pilot hole 4350. The diaphragm 435 is used to block or open the first valve port 4311, and the first valve core 436 is used to press against the diaphragm 435 so that the diaphragm 435 blocks the first valve port 4311.

[0091] Thus, the first valve head 432 serves as the overall actuator of the pilot-operated solenoid valve, and the diaphragm 435, as a flexible sealing element, covers the pilot cavity 434. A pilot hole 4350 is provided on the diaphragm 4350, which communicates with the pilot channel 433 provided inside the first valve seat 431. This allows the high-pressure water flow at the inlet end to enter the pilot cavity 434 through the pilot channel 433, creating upward pressure on the diaphragm 435. The first valve core 436 is driven by an electromagnetic coil. When energized, it moves upward, pressing the diaphragm 435 so that it is tightly attached to the first valve port 4311, achieving complete closure of the main channel. When de-energized, the pressure in the pilot cavity 434 is released through the pilot hole 4350, and the diaphragm 435 automatically lifts under water pressure, opening the main channel.

[0092] This application provides an optional embodiment in which a second flow channel 520 is provided between the inner wall of the first valve port 4311 and the flow restrictor 450. The flow rate of water flowing through the second flow channel 520 is L1, and the flow rate of water flowing in the inlet pipe 100 is L2. The flow restrictor valve 430 controls the throttling ratio by the cross-sectional area of ​​the first valve port 4311 and the orifice size of the first valve core 436, so that the ratio of L1 to L2 is in the range of 19% to 55%. Preferably, the ratio of L1 to L2 is 30%.

[0093] In this application, when the flow limiting valve 430 is opened, the water flows through the second flow channel 520, the first valve port 4311 and the pilot channel 433 in sequence, and then flows back into the water inlet pipe 100. By limiting the ratio of L1 to L2, the flow limiting valve 430 is kept in the closed state, ensuring that there is enough water flow from the water inlet pipe 100.

[0094] like Figure 6 As shown, the control valve 440 includes: a second valve seat 441 disposed on the inlet pipe 100, the second valve seat 441 having a second valve chamber 4410 and a second valve port 4411, the second valve chamber 4410 being connected to the mixing tank 410 via the second valve port 4411, and a bypass flow path 420 formed within the second valve chamber 4410 or between the second valve chamber 4410 and the inlet pipe 100; and a second valve head 442, at least a portion of which is movably disposed within the second valve chamber 4410 to adjust the opening degree of the second valve port 4411. Specifically, the second valve head 442 is a solenoid valve or a water proportional valve.

[0095] The control valve 440 includes a second valve seat 441 and a second valve head 442. The second valve seat 441 is fixed to the inlet pipe 100, and its inner cavity forms a second valve chamber 4410. A bypass flow path 420 is formed within the second valve chamber 4410 or between the second valve chamber 4410 and the inlet pipe 100. The second valve port 4411 is the flow interface between the second valve chamber 4410 and the mixing tank 410. Water flows through this interface from the inlet pipe 100 into the mixing tank 410, where it mixes with the high-temperature water flowing out of the heat exchanger 200 to achieve temperature regulation. The second valve head 442 is movably disposed within the second valve chamber 4410. Its movement directly controls the flow area of ​​the second valve port 4411, thereby determining the bypass water volume and controlling the mixing ratio.

[0096] Specifically, in this embodiment, the flow limiting valve 430 is located upstream of the control valve 440. By placing the flow limiting valve 430 upstream, flow can be limited before bypassing. This arrangement makes the calculation of the bypass ratio closer to the flow rate data of the water entering the heat exchanger and the bypass water flow, thus making the calculation of the bypass ratio more accurate.

[0097] In this embodiment, the second valve head 442 can be selected as a solenoid valve or a water proportional valve. When a solenoid valve is used, the second valve head 442 only presents two states: fully open or fully closed. When the gas water heater is running normally, the control valve 440 remains open, allowing some cold water to flow into the mixing tank 410 through the second valve port 4411 and mix with the high-temperature water at the outlet of the heat exchanger 200 to form constant temperature water. When the user turns off the water and then turns it back on, the controller immediately cuts off the control valve 440, causing it to close quickly and blocking the bypass water flow. This prevents the high-temperature water stored in the mixing tank 410 from being diluted by the newly flowing low-temperature water, thereby maximizing the retention of heat energy and significantly reducing the temperature drop during the second start-up and shutdown.

[0098] When the second valve head 442 adopts a water proportional valve structure, the opening degree of the second valve port 4411 is no longer controlled solely by power on / off. Instead, based on the real-time feedback signals from the inlet water temperature sensor 110 and the outlet water temperature sensor 320, the main controller dynamically adjusts the displacement of the second valve head 442 to continuously change the bypass flow rate, thereby achieving adaptive adjustment of the mixing ratio.

[0099] The second valve head 442 includes a second valve core 443, which is movably disposed within the second valve cavity 4410 to adjust the opening degree of the second valve port 4411.

[0100] The flow limiting valve 430 includes a first valve seat 431, the control valve 440 includes a second valve seat 441, the water inlet pipe 100 includes a first water inlet pipe section 102, a connecting pipe fitting 101 and a second water inlet pipe section 103 connected in sequence, the first water inlet pipe section 102 is connected to the water source, the second water inlet pipe section 103 is connected to the heat exchanger 200, the connecting pipe fitting 101 is connected to the mixing tank 410 through a bypass flow path 420, the flow limiting valve 430 is set on the connecting pipe fitting 101 and is located at the water inlet end of the connecting pipe fitting 101 relative to the control valve 440, the mixing tank 410 includes: a tank body 411; a cover 412, which is placed at the water inlet of the tank body 411 and is fixedly connected to the tank body 411; wherein, the tank body 411, the connecting pipe fitting 101 and the first valve seat 431 and the second valve seat 441 are integrally injection molded.

[0101] Furthermore, such as Figure 5 As shown, at least two baffles 4110 are provided inside the tank body 411. These baffles 4110 are spaced apart along the length of the tank body 411, and each baffle 4110 has multiple baffle holes 4111 to turbulent the water flow entering the tank body 411. At least a portion of the outer surface of the cover 412 and at least a portion of the outer surface of the tank body 411 are spherical surfaces. The outlet port of the connecting pipe 101 is lower than the inlet port of the tank body 411, and the edge of the outlet port of the connecting pipe 101 extends towards the outer surface of the tank body 411 to form a reinforcing rib 413. The connecting pipe 101, the tank body 411, and the reinforcing rib 413 are integrally injection molded.

[0102] First, the integral injection molding of the tank body 411, connecting pipe 101, first valve seat 431, and second valve seat 441 eliminates the risks of leakage, seepage, and structural fatigue caused by differences in thermal expansion coefficients, aging of sealing rings, loose threads, or welding defects in traditional assembly structures. Under the frequent start-stop and repeated temperature cycles of gas water heaters, the joints between metal and plastic parts are prone to micro-cracks due to the accumulation of thermal stress. However, this solution uses a single high-heat-resistant engineering plastic integral molding, making all key flow channel interfaces (including the connection between the connecting pipe 101 and the first valve seat 431, and the connection between the second valve seat 441 and the tank body 411) a seamless continuous structure with a smooth inner surface without steps, eliminating dead corners for water flow, thus avoiding scale buildup and eliminating the risk of leakage.

[0103] The cover 412 serves as the water inlet cap for the tank 411, and is fixedly connected to the tank 411, thus enhancing the sealing performance.

[0104] The cover 412 and the tank 411 can be connected by welding, bonding, fastener fixing, snap-fit, or other methods. Specifically, the cover 412 and the tank 411 can be ultrasonically welded or friction welded.

[0105] The outer surfaces of both the cover 412 and the tank 411 are designed as spherical surfaces, which can make the external pressure (such as the clamping force during installation and the pipe tension) evenly distributed on the surface of the tank, avoiding stress concentration; at the same time, the spherical structure has better fluidity during injection molding, uniform wall thickness, and is less prone to shrinkage marks or warping, significantly improving the yield rate.

[0106] Furthermore, during normal operation of the gas water heater, high-temperature water from the heat exchanger 200 enters the tank 411 from the top through the connecting pipe 101, while cold water from the control valve 440 is injected obliquely from the bypass inlet. Without a turbulence-inducing structure, the high-temperature water would float directly to the top due to the density difference, while the cold water would sink, forming stratification. This would result in excessively high water temperature in the upper layer and excessively low water temperature in the lower layer of the mixing tank 410, leading to drastic fluctuations in the outlet water temperature. The turbulence-inducing effect of the baffle 4110 improves the uniformity of mixing between the cold and hot water.

[0107] In the one-piece injection molding process, the water inlet port of the tank body 411 is usually the installation interface of the cover body 412. This interface needs to withstand the assembly clamping force and resist the internal water pressure for a long time. If the water outlet port of the connecting pipe 101 is at the same height or higher than the water inlet port of the tank body 411, during the injection molding cooling and shrinkage process, the connection area between the pipe and the tank body is prone to micro-cracks or demolding stress concentration due to uneven distribution of internal material stress. Especially in the area around the water inlet, if it is simultaneously subjected to the clamping force from the cover body 412 and the reverse thrust of the internal water flow, it is very easy to cause the seal to fail. Therefore, the outlet port of the connecting pipe 101 is designed to be lower than the inlet port of the tank 411 to ensure the sealing of the inlet of the tank 411. The edge of the outlet port of the connecting pipe 101 extends toward the outer surface of the tank 411 to form a continuous reinforcing rib 413 with a trapezoidal or arc-shaped cross section. During the injection molding cooling process, the reinforcing rib 413 acts as a shrinkage compensation structure, effectively offsetting the internal stress generated by the difference in wall thickness of the plastic material during cooling, and preventing shrinkage cavities, warping or cracking in the connection area.

[0108] An inlet water temperature sensor 110 and a water flow sensor 120 are sequentially installed on the inlet water pipe 100, and a water tank temperature sensor 310 and an outlet water temperature sensor 320 are sequentially installed on the outlet water pipe 300. Along the left-right direction, the inlet end, outlet end, and mixing tank 410 of the heat exchanger 200 are located on the same side of the heat exchanger 200. For example... Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, due to the limited installation space of the water storage bypass device, the distance between the inlet water pipe section of the inlet water pipe 100 and the outlet water pipe 300 is relatively close. In order to adapt to this spatial layout, the inlet and outlet water ends of the heat exchanger 200 are located on the same side. At the same time, the mixing tank 410 is arranged on the same side of the inlet and outlet water ends of the heat exchanger 200, resulting in a more compact spatial layout.

[0109] The gas water heater of this application mainly integrates a mixing tank 410 with a control valve 440 and a flow limiting valve 430. The control valve 440 acts as a bypass valve (normally closed) and is connected to the mixing tank 410. The flow limiting valve 430 (normally open) is installed on the connecting pipe fitting 101 and is used to open or close the main water circuit. The connecting pipe fitting 101 is located at the inlet of the gas water heater. The inlet of the connecting pipe fitting 101 is connected to the gas water heater inlet pipe 100, and the outlet is connected to the inlet of the heat exchanger 200. The inlet of the mixing tank 410 is connected to the outlet of the heat exchanger 200, and the outlet of the mixing tank 410 is connected to the gas water heater outlet pipe. A flow-limiting valve 430 is installed on the inlet side of the connecting pipe 101, dividing the connecting pipe 101 into a parallel first water path and a second water path. When the flow-limiting valve 430 is open, part of the cold water flows into the connecting pipe 101 through the valve port of the flow-limiting valve 430, and the other part flows through the channel below the flow-limiting element 450. When the flow-limiting valve 430 is closed, the cold water only flows through the channel below the flow-limiting element 450, thus limiting the flow. A bypass valve is installed on the outlet side of the connecting pipe 101. Part of the cold water enters the heat exchanger 200 through the connecting pipe 101, and the other part enters the mixing tank 410 through the bypass water path, mixing with the high-temperature water flowing out of the heat exchanger 200 to reach the required set temperature. The cold water entering the gas water heater first passes through the flow-limiting valve 430 and then through the bypass valve. The bypass ratio is determined by the flow rate of the bypass path and the flow rate entering the gas water heater heat exchanger 200. Therefore, the opening and closing of the flow-limiting valve 430 does not affect the bypass ratio.

[0110] Bypass valve: When the gas water heater is working normally, the bypass valve is open. At this time, the water temperature in the tank is higher than the set temperature. The water flows out from the outlet pipe of the heat exchanger 200 and enters the inlet of the mixing tank 410. Inside the mixing tank 410, it mixes with the cold water flowing through the bypass to reach the set temperature. When the water is turned off and then turned on again, the bypass valve is closed to reduce the temperature drop.

[0111] Flow limiting valve 430: When the gas water heater is working normally, the flow limiting valve 430 is normally open. When the water is turned on again, the flow limiting valve 430 is closed for 2-3 seconds to reduce the flow rate of water entering the gas water heater. When the flow rate is low, less cold water flows through the water heater when igniting, thereby reducing the water temperature difference and reducing the temperature drop after the water is turned on again.

[0112] In winter (when the inlet water temperature is low), the load is higher, and the outlet water temperature may not reach the set temperature. The flow rate can be reduced by the flow restrictor valve 430 to increase the outlet water temperature and meet the user's water demand. During the first use, the flow rate can be reduced by the flow restrictor valve 430 to shorten the hot water heating time.

[0113] When a gas water heater is operating under heavy load (with a large temperature difference between the inlet and outlet water or a large water flow rate), a temperature drop will still occur after the bypass valve is closed following the second water re-start. This is because the high-temperature water stored in the mixing tank 410 is insufficient to compensate for the temperature drop after the second water re-start. Therefore, closing the flow limiting valve 430 first reduces the water flow rate into the gas water heater, and then closing the bypass valve after the second water re-start can effectively reduce the temperature drop.

[0114] The bypass valve controls the bypass ratio of the bypass water path through the orifice diameter of the valve core. The flow limiting valve 430 controls the throttling ratio through the cross-sectional area of ​​the channel below the valve body and the size of the valve core orifice, so that the flow rate through the flow limiting valve 430 and the flow rate after throttling below the valve body are in a ratio of 3:7. When the flow rate is large, if the flow limiting valve 430 is not closed, a large temperature drop will occur after the water is turned on again. Therefore, closing the flow limiting valve 430 reduces the water flow rate of the connecting pipe 101 and reduces the temperature drop after the water is turned on again.

[0115] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps described in these embodiments do not limit the scope of this application. It should also be understood that, for ease of description, the dimensions of the various parts shown in the drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Techniques, methods, and devices known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and devices should be considered part of the specification. In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following drawings denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one drawing, it need not be further discussed in subsequent drawings.

[0116] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0117] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0118] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this utility model and is not intended to limit the utility model. Various modifications and variations can be made to this utility model by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. An integrated valve assembly, characterized in that, The integrated valve assembly includes: Mixing tank (410), flow limiting valve (430), control valve (440) and connecting pipe fitting (101); The mixing tank (410) and the connecting pipe (101) are connected by a bypass flow path (420), and the control valve (440) is used to control the flow of water through the bypass flow path (420); the flow limiting valve (430) is used to limit the flow rate of water flowing out through the connecting pipe (101). The flow limiting valve (430) includes a first valve seat (431), and the control valve (440) includes a second valve seat (441). At least one of the first valve seat (431) and the second valve seat (441) is integrated with at least a portion of the mixing tank (410).

2. The integrated valve assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the mixing tank (410), the connecting pipe (101), the first valve seat (431), and the second valve seat (441) are integrally injection molded.

3. The integrated valve assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first valve seat (431) is integrally injection molded onto the outer wall of the connecting pipe (101); and / or, The second valve seat (441) is integrally injection molded onto at least a portion of the outer wall of the mixing tank (410); and / or, The connecting pipe (101) is integrally injection molded on at least a portion of the outer wall of the mixing tank (410).

4. The integrated valve assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connecting pipe (101) is integrally injection molded on at least a portion of the outer wall of the mixing tank (410). The length direction of the connecting pipe (101) is consistent with the length direction of the mixing tank (410). The first valve seat (431) is integrally injection molded on the outer wall of the connecting pipe (101). The second valve seat (441) is integrally injection molded on at least a portion of the outer wall of the mixing tank (410). The first valve seat (431) and the second valve seat (441) are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the connecting pipe (101).

5. The integrated valve assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The two ports of the connecting pipe (101) are arranged at intervals along the length of the connecting pipe (101); and / or, The two ports of the mixing tank (410) are spaced apart along the length of the connecting pipe (101); and / or, The ports of the connecting pipe (101) located on the same side and the ports of the mixing tank (410) are arranged at intervals along the length of the connecting pipe (101).

6. The integrated valve assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The connecting pipe (101) includes a first arc-shaped outer wall, and at least a portion of the mixing tank (410) includes a second arc-shaped outer wall, wherein the first arc-shaped outer wall is integrally formed on the second arc-shaped outer wall; Wherein, a portion of the first valve seat (431) is integrally formed with the first arc-shaped outer wall, and another portion of the first valve seat (431) is integrally formed with the connection between the first arc-shaped outer wall and the second arc-shaped outer wall, and with the second arc-shaped outer wall; and / or, A portion of the second valve seat (441) is integrally formed with the second arc-shaped outer wall, and another portion of the second valve seat (441) is integrally formed with the connection between the first arc-shaped outer wall and the second arc-shaped outer wall, and with the first arc-shaped outer wall.

7. The integrated valve assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mixing tank (410) includes: The tank body (411) has a tank opening, and at least one of the first valve seat (431) and the second valve seat (441) is integrated with the tank body (411). A cover (412) is provided at the mouth of the can, and the cover (412) and the can body (411) are welded by ultrasonic welding or friction welding.

8. The integrated valve assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, The can opening is located at the top of the can body (411); and / or, The outer surface of the end of the can body (411) away from the can opening is spherical; and / or, At least a portion of the outer surface of the cover (412) is spherical.

9. The integrated valve assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The integrated valve assembly further includes at least two baffles (4110), which are spaced apart along the length of the mixing tank (410) inside the mixing tank (410). Each baffle (4110) is provided with a plurality of baffle holes (4111) to turbulent the water flow entering the mixing tank (410).

10. The integrated valve assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, At least a portion of the flow-limiting valve (430) is a pilot-operated solenoid valve; and / or, At least a portion of the control valve (440) is a solenoid valve, a switching valve, or a water proportional valve; and / or, The flow limiting valve (430) is located upstream of the control valve (440).

11. The integrated valve assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The flow limiting valve (430) includes a first valve head (432) and a flow limiting element (450). The flow limiting element (450) is disposed inside the connecting pipe (101). The flow limiting element (450) divides the connecting pipe (101) into a first flow channel (510) and a second flow channel (520). The first valve head (432) is used to cooperate with the flow limiting element (450) to control the flow interruption of the second flow channel (520).

12. The integrated valve assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that, The flow restrictor (450) is connected to the first valve seat (431), and the first valve seat (431) is provided with a first valve port (4311) with an adjustable opening. A second flow channel (520) is provided between the inner wall of the first valve port (4311) and the flow restrictor (450). The flow rate of the water flowing through the second flow channel (520) is L1, and the flow rate of the water flowing into the connecting pipe (101) is L2. The ratio of L1 to L2 is in the range of 19% to 55%; and / or, The flow limiting component (450) includes a first flow limiting section (452) and a second flow limiting section (453) connected to each other. One end of the first flow limiting section (452) is connected to the first valve seat (431). The first flow limiting section (452) is set at a preset angle with the first flow channel (510). The second flow limiting section (453) is bent in the downstream direction of the first flow channel (510) relative to the first flow limiting section (452).

13. A gas-fired water heater, characterized in that, include: The integrated valve assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 12; The first water inlet pipe section (102), the second water inlet pipe section (103), and the heat exchanger (200) are connected to each other. The two ends of the connecting pipe (101) are connected to the first water inlet pipe section (102) and the second water inlet pipe section (103) respectively. The first water inlet pipe section (102) is connected to the water source, and the second water inlet pipe section (103) is connected to the heat exchanger (200).

Images