Water supply device

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model provides a water supply device. The water supply device comprises: a hot tank; a heater, which is used for heating water in the hot tank; a water outlet pipeline, a water inlet of the water outlet pipeline being connected to a water outlet of the hot tank, a water outlet flow regulator being arranged on the water outlet pipeline; a water replenishing pipeline, a water outlet of the water replenishing pipeline being connected to a water inlet of the hot tank, a water replenishing flow regulator and a water replenishing control valve being arranged in series on the water replenishing pipeline; the water replenishing control valve is configured to be turned on when the hot tank is in a water shortage state, the heater is configured to operate in the water shortage state, and the water outlet flow regulator is configured to reduce the water outlet flow of the water outlet pipeline in the water shortage state. The heater can inhibit the tendency of the water temperature in the hot tank to decrease due to water replenishment. On the one hand, the residual water amount in the hot tank can be inhibited from being too small, which leads to dry burning; on the other hand, the duration of the water outlet pipeline to continuously discharge water can be prolonged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of water supply technology, specifically to a water supply device. Background Technology

[0002] As people's demands for quality of life increase, water purifiers capable of outputting heated and purified water have been widely used in homes and offices. These water purifiers are typically required to output purified water at different temperatures and with sufficient flow to meet users' diverse needs such as making tea, coffee, and baby formula.

[0003] Currently, most water purifiers on the market typically have a heating tank (also known as a hot water tank or pressure tank) for storing and instantly heating water. The heating tank contains a heater. Hot water is supplied to the user through the outlet pipe. As hot water flows out of the heating tank, the liquid level drops to a set minimum threshold, at which point the tank is in a water shortage state. In this case, the outlet pipe needs to be closed to stop water supply to the user. Then, a water replenishment valve is activated to replenish water to the heating tank through the replenishment pipe until the liquid level returns to the set maximum threshold. Only then is the outlet pipe reopened, allowing the user to draw water again.

[0004] This "stop water first, then refill" operating mode, while effectively preventing the risk of the heater burning out due to low liquid levels, causes an interruption in the user's water dispensing experience. Specifically, when a user is drawing hot water (e.g., to brew tea or make instant noodles), the water flow will suddenly stop, and the user must wait for the water to be refilled before continuing to draw water. This significantly impacts the convenience and smoothness of the user experience, failing to meet the user's urgent need for a "continuous and uninterrupted hot water supply." Utility Model Content

[0005] To at least partially address the problems existing in the prior art, embodiments of this utility model provide a water supply device. The water supply device includes: a heating tank; a heater for heating the water in the heating tank; an outlet pipe with its inlet connected to the outlet of the heating tank, and an outlet flow restrictor installed on the outlet pipe; and a water replenishment pipe with its outlet connected to the inlet of the heating tank, and a water replenishment flow restrictor and a water replenishment control valve connected in series in the water replenishment pipe. The water replenishment control valve is configured to be open when the heating tank is in a water shortage state, the heater is configured to operate in a water shortage state, and the outlet flow restrictor is configured to reduce the water flow rate of the outlet pipe in a water shortage state. By controlling the water replenishment flow rate of the water replenishment pipe through the water replenishment flow restrictor, the heater can suppress the trend of water temperature drop in the heating tank due to water replenishment, allowing users to still obtain relatively warm water. Furthermore, when the heating tank switches to a water shortage state, there will still be a certain amount of water in the heating tank for the outlet pipe to flow out. By controlling the water supply flow rate of the water supply pipeline with a water supply flow limiter and reducing the water flow rate of the water outlet pipeline with a water outlet flow limiter, the water supply device can be made safer in two ways: firstly, it can prevent the water in the hot water tank from becoming too small, which could lead to dry burning; secondly, it can extend the duration of continuous water flow from the water outlet pipeline, thereby reducing the user's waiting time and improving the user experience.

[0006] For example, the water supply flow limiter is configured to supply water to the water supply line at a first flow limit, while the outlet flow limiter is configured to supply water to the outlet line at a second flow limit in a water shortage state, where the second flow limit is less than or equal to the first flow limit. With this configuration, in a water shortage state, when the water supply control valve is activated, the water level in the heating tank will gradually increase, thus preventing dry burning. Furthermore, the outlet line can continuously supply water, resulting in a better user experience.

[0007] For example, the water outlet flow limiter includes a water outlet pump, and the water supply device further includes: a temperature detector for detecting the water temperature inside the hot water tank; and a controller that controls the operation of the water outlet pump according to preset water supply conditions, so that the water temperature output from the outlet pipe reaches the user-set water temperature. The preset water supply conditions include: the controller determining that the user has started taking water based on the user's input water intake information, and the water temperature being within a preset temperature range. In this way, the user can obtain water that meets their needs, resulting in a better user experience. The water outlet pump can provide power for the hot water tank to dispense water, so the hot water tank does not need to rely on gravity for water dispensing, allowing for greater freedom in the tank's position. Furthermore, the water outlet pump can change the water flow rate of the outlet pipe, thereby achieving a flow-limiting effect.

[0008] For example, the water supply device also includes a return water pump. The inlet of the return water pump is connected to the outlet pipe downstream of the outlet pump, and the outlet of the return water pump is connected to the heating tank. The controller controls the return water pump to run for a predetermined duration when it determines that the user has started taking water. The preset water supply conditions also include stopping the return water pump. When the return water pump stops running, the water remaining in the outlet pipe downstream of the outlet pump can be pumped back into the heating tank for reheating, and the returned water can be sterilized through heating. When the water temperature in the heating tank is within a preset temperature range, the controller can control the outlet pump to start. In this way, the water supply device can achieve a "zero cold water" effect, allowing the user to receive the first cup of water at the desired temperature with good quality.

[0009] For example, the water supply device also includes a level detector for detecting the liquid level in the heating tank, which is in a water shortage state when the liquid level is lower than or equal to a preset level threshold. By setting a level detector, it is possible to more accurately identify whether the heating tank is in a water shortage state.

[0010] For example, a partition is provided inside the hot water tank, separating the inlet and outlet of the hot water tank, wherein the distance between the heater and the inlet of the hot water tank is less than the distance between the heater and the outlet of the hot water tank. With this configuration, water supplied to the hot water tank via the replenishment pipe can be heated by the heater. During the heating process, water can overflow through the partition, thus flowing out through the outlet. Water supplied to the hot water tank via the replenishment pipe stays in the hot water tank for a longer time and is heated by the heater for a longer period, thereby facilitating a higher water temperature when flowing out through the outlet.

[0011] For example, the partition divides the space inside the hot tank into a first chamber and a second chamber. The inlet of the hot tank is located at the bottom of the first chamber, and the outlet of the hot tank is located at the bottom of the second chamber. The top of the first chamber and the top of the second chamber are connected. The heater is located at the bottom of the first chamber. With this configuration, the internal structure of the hot tank is relatively simple and easy to manufacture.

[0012] For example, the water supply device further includes a diverter, which includes a first inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet connected to the first inlet. The first inlet is connected to the purified water outlet of the water purifier, the first outlet is connected to the inlet of the water supply pipeline, and the second outlet is connected to the inlet of the water purifier. When the flow rate of purified water flowing out of the purified water outlet of the water purifier is greater than the water supply flow rate controlled by the water supply flow limiter in the water supply pipeline, the excess water can sequentially return to the water purifier through the first inlet and the second outlet. This configuration avoids wasting water resources and prevents the high-pressure switch of a high-flow-rate water purifier from frequently starting and stopping due to flow limitation. The water supply device can be used in conjunction with a high-flow-rate water purifier.

[0013] For example, the diverter also includes a check valve disposed in the water path between the first inlet and the second outlet. The check valve is unidirectionally oriented from the first inlet to the second outlet. The diverter also includes a second inlet connected to the second outlet, which is used to receive raw water. The water supply device can be connected to a water purifier by setting the diverter, and the diverter can also enable the water purifier to receive raw water.

[0014] For example, the water supply flow restrictor includes a flow limiting valve. The flow limiting valve has a simple structure and requires no adjustment, resulting in low structural and control costs for the water supply device.

[0015] This utility model description introduces a series of simplified concepts, which will be further explained in detail in the detailed description section. This utility model description is not intended to limit the key features and essential technical features of the claimed technical solution, nor is it intended to determine the scope of protection of the claimed technical solution.

[0016] The advantages and features of this utility model will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The following drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference as part of this invention, are provided for understanding the invention. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention and their descriptions, serving to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings,

[0018] Figure 1 This is a water circuit diagram of a water supply device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the water supply system connected to the small-flow water purifier; and...

[0020] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the water supply system connected to the high-flow water purifier.

[0021] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0022] 100. Water supply device; 200. Heating tank; 201. First chamber; 202. Second chamber; 211. Inlet; 212. Outlet; 213. Vent; 220. Separator; 310. Outlet water pipe; 320. Makeup water pipe; 330. Normal temperature water pipe; 410. Heater; 420. Temperature detector; 430. Outlet water flow restrictor; 440. Return water pump; 450. Liquid level detector; 470. Faucet; 510. Makeup water control valve; 520. Makeup water flow restrictor; 530. Diverter; 531. First inlet; 532. 533. Second Inlet; 534. First Outlet; 570. Normal Temperature Water Control Valve; 600. Small Flow Water Purifier; 610. Pre-filter; 620. Inlet Water Control Valve; 630. Booster Pump; 640. Reverse Osmosis Filter; 650. Concentrate Control Valve; 660. Water Storage Container; 670. Water Pump; 700. Large Flow Water Purifier; 710. Pre-filter; 720. Inlet Water Control Valve; 730. Booster Pump; 740. Reverse Osmosis Filter; 750. Concentrate Control Valve; 760. High Pressure Switch. Detailed Implementation

[0023] In the following description, numerous details are provided to enable a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the following description merely illustrates preferred embodiments of the present invention, which may be practiced without one or more of these details. Furthermore, to avoid confusion with the present invention, some technical features well-known in the art have not been described in detail.

[0024] In existing water heaters, when water is scarce, the outlet pipe must be shut off, and water must be replenished into the tank via a replenishment pipe. This results in users having to wait for the replenishment to complete before they can continue drawing water, leading to a poor user experience. To at least partially solve the above problems, embodiments of this utility model provide a water supply device. The water supply device can be installed inside a water purifier, thus becoming part of the water purifier. Alternatively, the water supply device can be connected to any suitable water purifier (e.g., a high-flow-rate water purifier or a low-flow-rate water purifier) ​​to form a water purification system. The water supply device of this utility model embodiment will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0025] like Figure 1 As shown, the water supply device 100 may include a hot water tank 200, a water outlet pipe 310, a heater 410, and a water supply pipe 320.

[0026] The heating tank 200 can be used to store water, and it typically has a certain heat preservation function to prevent the water temperature inside from dropping. The heating tank 200 can be used by users to store raw water, domestic water, or purified water. The inlet of the water outlet pipe 310 can be connected to the outlet 212 of the heating tank 200. The water outlet pipe 310 is used to supply water to users. Optionally, the water outlet pipe 310 can directly supply water to users. Users can collect the water flowing from the outlet of the water outlet pipe 310. Optionally, the outlet of the water outlet pipe 310 can also be connected to a faucet 470 or any other suitable water dispensing device. Users can collect the water flowing from the faucet 470 or any other suitable water dispensing device. The faucet 470 can be any type of faucet known in the art or that may appear in the future, including but not limited to mechanical faucets or electric faucets. Therefore, the water supply device 100 may also include a faucet 470.

[0027] Heater 410 can be used to heat water within the hot tank 200. Heater 410 can be of various types known in the art or likely to emerge in the future, including but not limited to heating wires or heating tubes. Heater 410 can be entirely, partially, or completely located outside the hot tank 200. A vent 213 can be provided on the hot tank 200. During the heating process of the hot tank 200 by heater 410, the vent 213 ensures that the pressure inside the hot tank 200 is balanced with the external environment.

[0028] A flow restrictor 430 may be installed on the outlet pipe 310. The flow restrictor 430 can be used to restrict the flow of water in the outlet pipe 310 to control the outflow rate of the outlet pipe 310. The flow restrictor 430 may be any type of flow restrictor known in the art or that may appear in the future, including but not limited to flow restricting valves or flow restricting pumps.

[0029] The outlet of the water supply line 320 can be connected to the inlet 211 of the heat tank 200. Water can be obtained from the inlet of the water supply line 320. Thus, the water supply line 320 can be used to supply water to the heat tank 200. The water supply line 320 can be equipped with a water supply flow restrictor 520 and a water supply control valve 510 connected in series. The order of the water supply flow restrictor 520 and the water supply control valve 510 along the water flow direction of the water supply line 320 can be arbitrary. The water supply flow restrictor 520 can be used to restrict the flow of water in the water supply line 320 to control the water supply flow rate. The water supply line 320 can employ various types of flow restrictors known in the art or likely to appear in the future, including but not limited to flow restricting valves or flow restricting pumps. The water supply control valve 510 can be used to control the on / off state of the water supply line 320. The water replenishment control valve 510 can be any type of control valve known in the art or likely to emerge in the future, including but not limited to solenoid valves or pneumatic valves. The water replenishment control valve 510 can be configured to open when the heating tank 200 is in a water shortage state. When the water replenishment control valve 510 is open, water can flow through the water replenishment line 320 to replenish the heating tank 200. The heater 410 can be configured to operate in a water shortage state to heat the water in the heating tank 200. The outlet flow restrictor 430 can be configured to reduce the outlet flow rate of the outlet line 310 in a water shortage state.

[0030] The "water shortage state" refers to the state of the heating tank 200 when the remaining water volume is less than or equal to a minimum preset water volume. For example, if the volume of the heating tank 200 is set to 5L, the heating tank 200 can be in a water shortage state when the remaining water volume is less than or equal to 1L. Exemplarily, the water shortage state of the heating tank 200 can be identified in various ways, such as by measuring the duration of water flow from the outlet pipe 310, installing a level detector 450 on the heating tank 200 (described in detail below), or installing a flow meter on the outlet pipe 310. The remaining water volume when the heating tank 200 switches to the water shortage state can be preset by those skilled in the art during the production or installation of the water supply device 100 based on factors such as the length of the outlet pipe 310 and / or the control of the maximum outlet flow rate of the outlet pipe 310 by the outlet flow limiter 430. Optionally, the water replenishment control valve 510 can be connected in series with a switch. When the heating tank 200 is in a water shortage state, the switch can be turned on, thereby energizing the water replenishment control valve 510 and enabling it to conduct. Conversely, when the water replenishment control valve 510 is turned on and the heating tank 200 switches to a full water state (i.e., the remaining water volume in the heating tank 200 is greater than or equal to the maximum preset water volume), the switch can be turned off, thereby de-energizing the water replenishment control valve 510, closing it, and stopping the water replenishment pipeline 320 from replenishing water to the heating tank 200. Optionally, the water supply device 100 may also include a controller (not shown). The controller can control the water replenishment control valve 510 to conduct when the heating tank 200 is in a water shortage state; the controller can control the water replenishment control valve 510 to close when the heating tank 200 is in a full water state. In short, when the heating tank 200 is in a water shortage state, the water replenishment control valve 510 can be controlled to conduct through any suitable control method. For example, when the water supply control valve 510 is turned on, the water supply control valve 510 can remain turned on even if the user no longer draws water, until the hot tank 200 switches to a full water state.

[0031] The operation of heater 410 and the control method of outlet flow restrictor 430 reducing the water flow of outlet pipe 310 can both refer to the control method of water replenishment control valve 510, and will not be elaborated further for simplicity. Heater 410 can operate not only in a water shortage state, but also in a normal state when water supply device 100 is on standby or when hot water tank 200 is in a water shortage or full state, so as to ensure that the water in hot water tank 200 has a higher water temperature, thereby reducing the waiting time for users to draw water. Furthermore, when hot water tank 200 switches from a water shortage state to a normal state, outlet flow restrictor 430 can stop reducing the water flow of outlet pipe 310, and outlet pipe 310 can resume a high flow rate.

[0032] In practical applications, as the user draws water from the water supply pipe 310, the remaining water in the heating tank 200 gradually decreases. When the heating tank 200 switches to a water shortage state, the water replenishment control valve 510 can be opened, allowing water to be replenished into the heating tank 200 through the water replenishment pipe 320. During this process, the water replenishment flow limiter 520 can control the water replenishment flow rate of the water replenishment pipe 320. Furthermore, the heater 410 can operate to heat the water replenished into the heating tank 200 through the water replenishment pipe 320. Additionally, the outlet flow limiter 430 can reduce the outlet flow rate of the water outlet pipe 310. By controlling the water replenishment flow rate of the water replenishment pipe 320 through the water replenishment flow limiter 520, the heater 410 can suppress the trend of water temperature drop in the heating tank 200 due to water replenishment, allowing the user to still draw relatively warm water. Furthermore, even when the heating tank 200 switches to a water shortage state, a certain amount of water will still remain in the heating tank 200 to supply water to the outlet pipe 310. By controlling the water supply flow rate of the water supply pipe 320 through the water supply flow limiter 520 and reducing the water flow rate of the outlet pipe 310 through the outlet flow limiter 430, on the one hand, it can prevent the remaining water in the heating tank 200 from becoming too low, thus preventing dry burning, thereby ensuring the high safety of the water supply device 100; on the other hand, it can extend the duration of continuous water flow from the outlet pipe 310, thereby reducing user waiting time and improving the user experience.

[0033] For example, the water supply flow limiter 520 can be configured to supply water to the water supply line 320 at a first flow limit. The water outlet flow limiter 430 can be configured to supply water to the water outlet line 310 at a second flow limit in a water shortage state. The second flow limit can be less than or equal to the first flow limit. With this configuration, in a water shortage state, when the water supply control valve 510 is activated, the water in the heating tank 200 will gradually increase, thereby preventing dry burning. Furthermore, the water outlet line 310 can continuously supply water, improving the user experience. In this embodiment, as the water in the heating tank 200 gradually increases, when the heating tank 200 switches from a water shortage state to a full state, the water supply control valve 510 can be closed. Thus, the water supply line 320 no longer supplies water to the heating tank 200, thereby preventing water overflow from the heating tank 200.

[0034] For example, such as Figure 1 As shown, the water supply flow restrictor 520 may include a flow limiting valve. The flow limiting valve has a relatively simple structure and requires no adjustment, resulting in low structural and control costs for the water supply device 100. In other embodiments, the water supply flow restrictor 520 may also include a flow restrictor that changes the water supply flow rate of the water supply pipeline 320. Thus, the water supply flow restrictor 520 can also be controlled in the same manner as the water supply control valve 510 described above.

[0035] For example, such as Figure 1As shown, the outlet flow restrictor 430 may include an outlet pump. The outlet pump can control the outlet flow rate of the outlet pipe 310 by changing the pump's flow rate. The water supply device 100 may also include a temperature detector 420 and a controller.

[0036] Temperature detector 420 can be used to detect the water temperature inside hot tank 200. Temperature detector 420 can be any type of temperature detector known in the art or that may appear in the future, including but not limited to resistance temperature detectors or thermistors, such as negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistors.

[0037] The controller can be electrically connected to the water supply control valve 510, heater 410, temperature detector 420, and water pump. The controller can be constructed using electronic components such as timers, comparators, registers, and digital logic circuits, or implemented using processor chips such as microcontrollers, microprocessors, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), digital signal processors (DSPs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic arrays (PLAs), and application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) and their peripheral circuits. The controller can control the water pump to start according to preset water supply conditions, ensuring that the water temperature output from the water outlet pipe 310 reaches the user-set water temperature. The preset water supply conditions can include at least: the controller determining that the user has started drawing water based on user-input water information, and the water temperature in the heating tank 200 being within the preset temperature range.

[0038] Water dispensing information can be generated by the water supply device 100 in response to a user's water dispensing operation. In one set of embodiments, the water supply device 100 may be equipped with an input device that can receive user operations and generate water dispensing information. The input device may include one or more of a touch screen, buttons, keyboard, mouse, voice input device, etc. In another set of embodiments, the water supply device 100 may include a sensor. The sensor can directly detect the user's water dispensing operation and generate water dispensing information. For example, the sensor may include a contact switch or proximity switch installed on the faucet 470. Alternatively, the sensor can detect changes in the state of the water supply device 100 caused by the user's water dispensing operation and generate water dispensing information.

[0039] Optionally, an external device (such as a mobile device or a central control panel) can receive the user's water dispensing operation and generate water dispensing information. Subsequently, the external device can send the water dispensing information to the controller.

[0040] Water dispensing information typically includes the water temperature. That is, when a user performs a water dispensing operation, they input the water temperature via a keypad or other input device. Depending on the user's needs, the water temperature may include, but is not limited to, 90℃, 95℃, or 100℃. The water temperature can be within a preset temperature range or below. After the water pump pumps water from the hot water tank 200 through the outlet pipe 310, the water temperature will decrease appropriately as the water flows within the outlet pipe 310. Especially in embodiments with a longer outlet pipe 310, the temperature drop within the outlet pipe 310 will be greater. Therefore, to output the correct water temperature, those skilled in the art can appropriately increase the preset water temperature range based on factors such as the length of the outlet pipe 310 to offset the effect of temperature drop within the outlet pipe 310. The preset water temperature range can be, for example, 90℃-95℃. The preset water temperature range can be pre-set by those skilled in the art during the production or installation of the water supply device 100 based on factors such as the rated heating power of the heater 410 and / or the length of the outlet pipe 310; alternatively, the preset water temperature range can also be calculated by the controller based on factors such as the water intake temperature when receiving water intake information. In other words, the preset water temperature range can be different depending on the different water intake temperatures.

[0041] The water intake information may also include the time when the user begins to take water (e.g., the time when the user presses the water intake button), so that water can be supplied to the user via the water outlet pipe 310 after the user begins to take water. For example, the water intake information may also include the user's desired water intake amount or the time when the user stops taking water (e.g., the time when the user presses the stop water intake button), thereby determining that water supply to the user will stop after the user stops taking water based on the water intake information.

[0042] In practical applications, the water supply device 100 allows the controller to determine when a user begins taking water based on their input. When the temperature detector 420 detects that the water temperature in the hot tank 200 is within a preset range, the controller activates the water pump. This allows the pump to dispense water from the hot tank 200 through the outlet pipe 310, providing the user with water at the desired temperature. This ensures the user receives water that meets their needs, resulting in a better user experience. When the hot tank 200 switches to a water shortage state, the controller activates the water replenishment control valve 510, operates the heater 410, and reduces the water flow rate in the outlet pipe 310. This allows the water pump to power the water dispensing from the hot tank 200, eliminating the need for gravity and increasing the tank's positional flexibility. Furthermore, the pump can adjust the water flow rate in the outlet pipe 310, effectively limiting the flow.

[0043] For example, such as Figure 1As shown, the water supply device 100 may further include a return water pump 440. The inlet of the return water pump 440 may be connected to the outlet pipe 310 downstream of the outlet pump. The outlet of the return water pump 440 may be connected to the hot water tank 200. A controller may be electrically connected to the return water pump 440. Specifically, when the controller determines that a user has started drawing water, it may control the return water pump 440 to run for a predetermined duration. For example, the predetermined duration may be 1 second, 2 seconds, 3 seconds, 4 seconds, or any other suitable duration. Those skilled in the art can select the predetermined duration based on factors such as the length of the outlet pipe 310 downstream of the outlet pump and / or the displacement of the return water pump 440. Preset water supply conditions may also include stopping the return water pump 440.

[0044] After the water supply device 100 stops supplying water, a certain amount of water will remain in the outlet pipe 310. During standby, the temperature of the water remaining in the outlet pipe 310 will decrease, and it is easily contaminated by bacteria upon contact with air, leading to a decline in water quality. When the controller determines that the user has started taking water based on the user's input water intake information, the controller can control the return water pump 440 to run for a predetermined period of time. Thus, when the return water pump 440 stops running, the water remaining in the outlet pipe 310 downstream of the outlet pump can be pumped back to the heating tank 200 by the return water pump 440 for reheating, and the pumped-back water can be sterilized through heating. When the water temperature in the heating tank 200 is within the preset water temperature range, the controller can control the outlet pump to start. In this way, the water supply device 100 can achieve the effect of "zero cold water," allowing the user to receive the first cup of water that has reached the required water intake temperature and has good water quality.

[0045] For example, such as Figure 1 As shown, the water supply device 100 may further include a level detector 450. The level detector 450 can be used to detect the liquid level within the heating tank 200. The level detector 450 can employ various types of level detectors known in the art or likely to emerge in the future, including but not limited to float-type level detectors or magnetostrictive level detectors. When the liquid level detected by the level detector 450 is lower than or equal to a preset liquid level threshold (i.e., the minimum liquid level threshold), the heating tank 200 may be in a water shortage state. By setting the level detector 450, it is possible to more accurately identify whether the heating tank 200 is in a water shortage state. When the liquid level detected by the level detector 450 is higher than or equal to the maximum liquid level threshold, the heating tank 200 may be in a full water state. When the liquid level detected by the level detector 450 is higher than the preset liquid level threshold but lower than the maximum liquid level threshold, the heating tank 200 may be in a normal state. A controller can be electrically connected to the level detector 450 to achieve linkage with components such as the heater 410.

[0046] For example, such as Figure 1As shown, a partition 220 can be provided inside the heating tank 200. The partition 220 can separate the inlet 211 and outlet 212 of the heating tank 200. The partition 220 can include a baffle, a stop block, or any other suitable structure, as long as it can achieve the above functions. The distance between the heater 410 and the inlet 211 of the heating tank 200 can be less than the distance between the heater 410 and the outlet 212 of the heating tank 200. With this configuration, the water supplied to the heating tank 200 through the water supply pipe 320 can be heated by the heater 410. During the heating process, the water can overflow through the partition 220 and flow out through the outlet 212. The water supplied to the heating tank 200 through the water supply pipe 320 stays in the heating tank 200 for a longer time and is heated by the heater 410 for a longer time, thus facilitating a higher water temperature when flowing out through the outlet 212. In particular, for embodiments where the water temperature output from the outlet pipe 310 reaches the user-set water temperature, by extending the time the water added to the heating tank 200 stays in the heating tank 200, the heater 410 can have a longer heating time so that the water temperature is within the preset water temperature range before flowing out through the outlet 212.

[0047] For example, such as Figure 1 As shown, the separator 220 divides the space inside the heating tank 200 into a first chamber 201 and a second chamber 202. The inlet 211 of the heating tank 200 can be located at the bottom of the first chamber 201. The outlet 212 of the heating tank 200 can be located at the bottom of the second chamber 202. The separator 220 can be connected to the bottom of the heating tank 200 and spaced apart from the top of the heating tank 200. The top of the first chamber 201 and the top of the second chamber 202 can communicate. A level detector 450 can be located in the second chamber 202 to detect the level of liquid within the second chamber 202. A heater 410 can be located at the bottom of the first chamber 201. Thus, water supplied to the heating tank 200 through the water supply pipe 320 can flow into the first chamber 201 and be heated by the closer heater 410. Only after the water in the first chamber 201 overflows through the top of the separator 220 into the second chamber 202 can it flow out through the outlet 212. With this design, the internal structure of the hot tank 200 is relatively simple and easy to process and manufacture.

[0048] For example, such as Figure 1As shown, the water supply device 100 may further include a normal temperature water pipeline 330. Water can be obtained from the inlet of the normal temperature water pipeline 330. The outlet of the normal temperature water pipeline 330 can be connected to the outlet pipeline 310. A normal temperature water control valve 570 can be installed on the normal temperature water pipeline 330. The normal temperature water control valve 570 can be used to control the opening and closing of the normal temperature water pipeline 330. When the water temperature in the hot water tank 200 is too high, the normal temperature water control valve 570 can be activated, allowing the hot water in the hot water tank 200 and the normal temperature water output from the normal temperature water pipeline 330 to mix in the outlet pipeline 310, forming a mixed water with a lower water temperature. With this configuration, the temperature of the mixed water not only meets the user's needs but also has a larger flow rate. A controller can be electrically connected to the normal temperature water control valve 570. The controller can control the opening and closing of the normal temperature water control valve 570.

[0049] like Figure 2As shown, the water supply device 100 can be connected to a small-flow water purifier 600. A small-flow water purifier typically refers to a water purifier with a production capacity of no more than 400 gallons per day, where gallons are US units. Exemplarily, the small-flow water purifier 600 can be any type of small-flow water purifier known in the art or likely to emerge in the future. Exemplarily, the small-flow water purifier 600 may include a pre-filter 610, an inlet control valve 620, a booster pump 630, a reverse osmosis filter 640, a concentrate control valve 650, a water storage container 660, and a water pump 670. Raw water can enter the raw water inlet of the small-flow water purifier 600. The pre-filter 610 can perform a primary filtration of the raw water. The primary filtered water can pass through the inlet control valve 620, then be pressurized by the booster pump 630, and then the reverse osmosis filter 640 can perform a secondary filtration of the water to produce purified water. Wastewater produced by the reverse osmosis filter 640 can be discharged from the small-flow water purifier 600 through the concentrate control valve 650. The purified water filtered by the reverse osmosis filter 640 can be stored in the storage container 660. A water pump 670 can be installed between the outlet of the storage container 660 and the purified water outlet. The purified water outlet of the small-flow water purifier 600 can be directly or indirectly connected to the inlet of the water supply line 320 and the inlet of the ambient temperature water line 330. When the hot water tank 200 needs replenishment, the water pump 670 can pump the purified water from the storage container 660 into the hot water tank 200 through the water supply line 320. When ambient temperature water is needed, the water pump 670 can output the purified water from the storage container 660 to the user through the ambient temperature water line 330. Optionally, the booster pump 630 and the water pump 670 in the small-flow water purifier 600 can be controlled by the controller of the water supply device 100. Optionally, the booster pump 630 and the water pump 670 within the small-flow water purifier 600 can also be controlled by the controller of the small-flow water purifier 600. The controller of the water supply device 100 and the controller of the small-flow water purifier 600 can be electrically connected to achieve linkage. Since the water production capacity of the small-flow water purifier 600 is relatively low, a large flow rate of water can be achieved by pre-storing water in the water storage container 660.

[0050] like Figure 3As shown, the water supply device 100 can be connected to a high-flow-rate water purifier 700. A high-flow-rate water purifier typically refers to a water purifier with a production capacity exceeding 400 gallons per day, where gallons are US units. The high-flow-rate water purifier 700 can be any type of high-flow-rate water purifier known in the art or likely to emerge in the future. Exemplarily, the high-flow-rate water purifier 700 may include a pre-filter 710, an inlet control valve 720, a booster pump 730, a reverse osmosis filter 740, a concentrate control valve 750, and a high-pressure switch 760. Raw water can enter the raw water inlet of the high-flow-rate water purifier 700. The pre-filter 710 can perform a primary filtration of the raw water. The primary filtered water can pass through the inlet control valve 720, then be pressurized by the booster pump 730, and then the reverse osmosis filter 740 can perform a secondary filtration of the water to produce purified water. Wastewater produced by the reverse osmosis filter 740 can be discharged from the high-flow water purifier 700 through the concentrate control valve 750. Because the high-flow water purifier 700 has a relatively high water production capacity, a water storage container is not required. The purified water filtered by the reverse osmosis filter 740 can flow out through the purified water outlet of the high-flow water purifier 700. A high-pressure switch 760 can be installed between the purified water outlets of the reverse osmosis filter 740 and the high-flow water purifier 700. The purified water outlet of the high-flow water purifier 700 can be directly or indirectly connected to the inlet of the water supply line 320 and the inlet of the ambient temperature water line 330. When the hot water tank 200 needs replenishment, the booster pump 730 can pump purified water into the hot water tank 200 through the water supply line 320. When ambient temperature water is needed, the booster pump 730 can output purified water to the user through the ambient temperature water line 330. The controller can detect the pressure in the pipeline via the high-pressure switch 760 and control the start and stop of the booster pump 730. Optionally, the booster pump 730 and high-pressure switch 760 in the high-flow water purifier 700 can be controlled by the controller of the water supply device 100. Optionally, the booster pump 730 and high-pressure switch 760 in the high-flow water purifier 700 can also be controlled by the controller of the high-flow water purifier 700. The controller of the water supply device 100 and the controller of the high-flow water purifier 700 can be electrically connected to achieve linkage.

[0051] For example, the flow rate of existing water purifiers is typically above 1L / min, while the heating power of heater 410 is less than 2.2kW. In order to ensure that the water temperature in the heating tank 200 reaches above 93°C during the water replenishment process, the water replenishment flow limiter 520 needs to control the water replenishment flow rate of the water replenishment pipeline 320 between 300ml and 350ml. This prevents the high-pressure switch 760 from frequently starting and stopping.

[0052] For example, such as Figures 2 to 3As shown, the water supply device 100 may further include a diverter 530. The diverter 530 may include a first inlet 531, a first outlet 533, and a second outlet 534. Both the first outlet 533 and the second outlet 534 may be connected to the first inlet 531. The first inlet 531 may be used to connect to the purified water outlet of a water purifier (e.g., a small-flow water purifier 600 or a large-flow water purifier 700). The first outlet 533 may be connected to the inlet of the water supply line 320. The first outlet 533 may also be connected to the inlet of the ambient temperature water line 330. The second outlet 534 may be used to connect to the inlet of the water purifier. The inlet of the water purifier may include a raw water inlet or any other suitable inlet. Thus, when the flow rate of purified water flowing out of the purified water outlet of the water purifier is greater than the water supply flow rate of the water supply line 320 controlled by the water supply flow limiter 520, the excess water can sequentially return to the water purifier through the first inlet 531 and the second outlet 534. This setup avoids wasting water resources and prevents the high-pressure switch 760 of the high-flow water purifier 700 from frequently starting and stopping due to flow restriction. The water supply device 100 can be used in conjunction with the high-flow water purifier 700.

[0053] For example, such as Figures 2 to 3 As shown, the diverter 530 may also include a check valve (not shown). The check valve may be located in the water path between the first inlet 531 and the second outlet 534. The check valve may be unidirectionally open along the direction from the first inlet 531 to the second outlet 534. The diverter 530 may also include a second inlet 532. The second inlet 532 may be connected to the second outlet 534. The second inlet 532 may be used to receive raw water. With this configuration, raw water can enter the diverter 530 through the second inlet 532, and then sequentially enter the water purifier for filtration through the second outlet 534 and the raw water inlet of the water purifier. The filtered water from the water purifier can flow through the first inlet 531 to the water supply line 320 and / or the ambient temperature water line 330. When the flow rate of the purified water flowing out of the water purifier's outlet is greater than the water supply flow rate controlled by the water supply flow limiter 520 in the water supply line 320, the excess water can sequentially return to the water purifier through the first inlet 531, the check valve, and the second outlet 534. The water supply device 100 can be connected to the water purifier by setting a diverter 530, and the diverter 530 can also enable the water purifier to receive raw water.

[0054] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the directional terms such as "front", "rear", "up", "down", "left", "right", "horizontal", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", and "bottom" indicate the orientation or positional relationship, which are usually based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms 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, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this utility model. The directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours of each component itself.

[0055] For ease of description, relative terms such as "above," "over," "on the upper surface of," and "above" are used here to describe the regional positional relationship of one or more components or features shown in the figures to other components or features. It should be understood that relative terms include not only the orientation of the component as depicted in the figure but also different orientations during use or operation. For example, if the components in the figures are inverted as a whole, "above" or "above other components or features" will include cases where the component is "below" or "under" other components or features. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." Furthermore, these components or features may also be positioned at other different angles (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or other angles), and this document intends to include all such cases.

[0056] 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, parts, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0057] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in sequences other than those illustrated or described herein.

[0058] This utility model has been described through the above embodiments. However, it should be understood that the above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the utility model to the described embodiments. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that this utility model is not limited to the above embodiments, and many more variations and modifications can be made based on the teachings of this utility model, all of which fall within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model. The scope of protection of this utility model is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A water supply device, characterized in that, include: Hot pot; A heater for heating water in the hot tank; A water outlet pipe, the inlet of which is connected to the outlet of the hot water tank, and an outlet flow restrictor is installed on the water outlet pipe; and A water supply pipeline, the outlet of which is connected to the inlet of the hot water tank, is equipped with a water supply flow limiter and a water supply control valve connected in series; wherein: The water replenishment control valve is configured to be turned on when the hot tank is in a water shortage state, the heater is configured to operate in the water shortage state, and the water outlet flow limiter is configured to reduce the water flow rate of the water outlet pipeline in the water shortage state.

2. The water supply device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The water supply flow limiter is configured to supply water to the water supply pipeline at a first flow limit, and the water outlet flow limiter is configured to supply water to the water outlet pipeline at a second flow limit under the water shortage state, wherein the second flow limit is less than or equal to the first flow limit.

3. The water supply device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The outlet flow restrictor includes an outlet pump, and the water supply device further includes: Temperature detector, the temperature detector being used to detect the water temperature inside the hot tank; and The controller controls the operation of the water pump according to preset water supply conditions, so that the water temperature output by the water outlet pipeline reaches the water temperature set by the user. The preset water supply conditions include: the controller determines that the user starts taking water based on the water information input by the user, and the water temperature is within the preset water temperature range.

4. The water supply device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The water supply device further includes a return water pump, the inlet of which is connected to the outlet pipe downstream of the outlet pump, and the outlet of which is connected to the heating tank, wherein: The controller controls the return water pump to run for a predetermined duration when it determines that a user has started drawing water; and The preset water supply conditions also include the return water pump stopping operation.

5. The water supply device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The water supply device also includes a liquid level detector, which is used to detect the liquid level in the hot tank. The hot tank is in the water shortage state when the liquid level is lower than or equal to a preset liquid level threshold.

6. The water supply device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The hot water tank is equipped with a partition that separates the inlet and outlet of the hot water tank, wherein: The distance between the heater and the inlet of the hot water tank is less than the distance between the heater and the outlet of the hot water tank.

7. The water supply device as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The separator divides the space inside the hot water tank into a first chamber and a second chamber. The water inlet of the hot water tank is located at the bottom of the first chamber, and the water outlet of the hot water tank is located at the bottom of the second chamber. The tops of the first chamber and the second chamber are connected. The heater is located at the bottom of the first cavity.

8. The water supply device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The water supply device further includes a diverter, which includes a first inlet, a first outlet and a second outlet connected to the first inlet. The first inlet is used to connect to the purified water outlet of the water purifier, the first outlet is connected to the inlet of the water supply pipeline, and the second outlet is used to connect to the inlet of the water purifier.

9. The water supply device as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The diverter also includes a check valve disposed in the water path between the first inlet and the second outlet, the check valve being unidirectionally open from the first inlet to the second outlet. The diverter also includes a second inlet connected to the second outlet, which is used to receive raw water.

10. The water supply device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The water supply flow limiter includes a flow limiting valve.

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