Control valve and water softening apparatus comprising the same

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of household appliances, and particularly provides a control valve and a water softening device comprising the same, and aims to solve the problem that the existing control valve has a too small valve piece through hole area and a high machining difficulty because a salt suction component is integrated in the control valve. The control valve comprises a shell provided with a first interface, a second interface and a salt suction interface, one end of a water inlet flow channel is connected to a water source, a first end of a salt suction flow channel is in communication with the salt suction interface, and a second end of the salt suction flow channel is in communication with the second interface; and a switching assembly is arranged to switch between at least a water production position and a salt suction position, in the water production position, the switching assembly enables the water inlet flow channel to be in communication with the first interface and enables a water outlet flow channel to be in communication with the second interface; and in the salt suction position, the switching assembly cuts off the communication between the water inlet flow channel and the first interface and cuts off the communication between the water outlet flow channel and the second interface. The application can reduce the number of valve piece channels, increase the through hole area and reduce the machining difficulty.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of household appliance technology, specifically providing a control valve and a water softening device including the control valve. Background Technology

[0002] Water softening equipment is a water treatment device that removes calcium and magnesium ions from water using ion exchange resin to reduce water hardness. It is widely used in household and industrial water treatment.

[0003] Traditional water softeners typically integrate the ejector into the control valve, with the brine suction function handled internally. Specifically, the control valve needs an internal brine suction component. During brine suction, the negative pressure generated by this component (such as the ejector) draws the brine into the valve body and delivers it to the resin tank. Because the brine suction function is integrated into the control valve, the valve plates (moving and stationary plates) need to be designed with channels corresponding to the brine suction component. Given the limited valve plate size, the more water channels there are, the smaller the area of ​​each orifice becomes, leading to increased flow resistance, reduced flow capacity, and increased manufacturing difficulty for the valve plates. Utility Model Content

[0004] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned technical problems to at least a certain extent, that is, to at least a certain extent solve the problem that the control valve of the existing soft water equipment has too small a valve plate through hole area and is difficult to process due to the integration of the salt suction component inside the control valve.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a control valve for a soft water system having a raw water inlet and a soft water outlet. The control valve includes a housing having a first interface for communication with the raw water inlet, a second interface for communication with the soft water outlet, and a brine-absorbing interface for communication with a brine-absorbing component. The housing contains an inlet channel, an outlet channel, and a brine-absorbing channel. One end of the inlet channel is adapted to connect to a water source. The first end of the brine-absorbing channel communicates with the brine-absorbing interface, and the second end of the brine-absorbing channel is capable of communicating with the second water outlet. The system includes an interface connection and a switching component configured to allow the control valve to switch between at least a water production station and a brine suction station. At the water production station, the switching component connects the inlet channel to the first interface and the outlet channel to the second interface. At the brine suction station, the switching component disconnects the inlet channel from the first interface and the outlet channel from the second interface, and allows brine from the brine suction member to flow sequentially through the brine suction interface, the brine suction channel, and the second interface into the soft water system.

[0006] In the preferred embodiment of the control valve described above, a first water chamber is further provided inside the housing, and the other end of the water inlet channel is connected to the first water chamber to guide the water source into the first water chamber. The switching component is further configured to enable the first water chamber to be connected to or disconnected from the first interface; or to enable the first water chamber to be connected to or disconnected from the second interface, so that the control valve can switch between the water production station, the forward washing station, and the backwashing station.

[0007] In the preferred embodiment of the control valve described above, a second flow channel is further provided inside the housing, the second end of the brine suction flow channel is connected to the second flow channel, and the switching component is configured to enable the first water chamber to be connected to the second interface through the second flow channel.

[0008] In the preferred embodiment of the control valve described above, the housing is further provided with a wastewater interface, and the switching component is further configured to enable the first interface or the second interface to be connected to the wastewater interface so that the wastewater in the soft water system is discharged through the wastewater interface.

[0009] In the preferred embodiment of the control valve described above, the switching component is further configured such that when the control valve is in at least one of the forward washing position, the backwash position, or the brine suction position, the first water chamber can be selectively connected to the water outlet channel.

[0010] In the preferred embodiment of the control valve described above, the housing also has a water supply interface suitable for communication with a salt tank, and a water supply channel is also provided inside the housing. The first end of the water supply channel is connected to the water supply interface, and the second end of the water supply channel is connected to the inlet channel.

[0011] In the preferred embodiment of the control valve described above, a first flow channel is provided inside the housing, and the second end of the water replenishment channel is connected to the first flow channel. The switching component is configured to connect or disconnect the water inlet channel from the first interface. When the water inlet channel is connected to the first interface, the water inlet channel is connected to the first interface through the first flow channel.

[0012] In the preferred embodiment of the control valve described above, the switching component includes a fixed plate, a moving plate, and a driving mechanism. The fixed plate is provided with a plurality of first channels, and the moving plate is provided with a plurality of second channels. The driving mechanism is drivenly connected to the moving plate to drive the moving plate to rotate relative to the fixed plate, so that a portion of the plurality of second channels overlaps with a portion of the plurality of first channels.

[0013] In the preferred embodiment of the control valve described above, the drive mechanism includes a drive component and a transmission component, wherein the drive component is drivenly connected to the moving plate through the transmission component.

[0014] In a second aspect, the present invention also provides a water softening device, the water softening device comprising a water softening system and a control valve as described in any of the above claims.

[0015] By adopting the above technical solution, one end of the brine suction channel is connected to the brine suction interface, and the other end is connected to the second interface. At the brine suction station, the switching component cuts off the connection between the inlet channel and the first interface and the connection between the outlet channel and the second interface. This allows the brine from the brine suction component to flow into the soft water system sequentially through the brine suction interface, the brine suction channel, and the second interface. This achieves the separation of the softened water path and the regenerated water path inside the valve body. It eliminates the need to integrate the brine suction component inside the valve body, simplifies the flow channel design of the switching component, reduces the number of through holes on the valve plate, reduces the volume of the control valve, lowers the difficulty of valve plate processing, and also avoids the risk of cross-contamination when the valve plate rotates, thus improving the user experience.

[0016] Furthermore, by setting a first water chamber inside the housing and connecting the other end of the inlet channel to the first water chamber, water in the inlet channel can be first introduced into the first water chamber as an intermediate medium. Then, the switching component controls whether the first water chamber is connected to or not connected to the first interface, or whether the first water chamber is connected to or not connected to the second interface. This achieves flexible switching between the water production station, the forward washing station, and the backwash station. This allows the control valve to not only switch between the water production station and the brine suction station, but also switch between the forward washing station and the backwash station through the same switching component. Thus, multiple stations such as water production, forward washing, backwashing, and brine suction can be switched through a single switching component, eliminating the need for multiple independent control valves or complex switching mechanisms. This simplifies the internal flow channel layout of the valve body and reduces the manufacturing cost of the control valve.

[0017] Furthermore, by setting a wastewater interface on the housing and enabling the switching component to connect the first or second interface to the wastewater interface, the rinsing water generated by the forward and reverse washing stations and the regeneration wastewater generated by the salt absorption and regeneration station are discharged from the wastewater interface in a centralized manner, which simplifies the external pipeline connection of the control valve and reduces the difficulty of installation and maintenance.

[0018] Furthermore, by configuring the switching component to selectively connect the first water chamber to the outlet channel, the water in the first water chamber can still flow to the user end through the outlet channel when the control valve is in the forward washing position, backwash position, or brine suction position. This ensures that the user can take water normally when performing operations such as rinsing or resin regeneration, avoiding the problem of water interruption for the user due to the control valve being in a non-water-producing position, thus improving the user experience.

[0019] Furthermore, by setting a water replenishment interface on the shell and a water replenishment channel inside the shell, the water in the inlet channel can be used to replenish the brine tank through the water replenishment interface. This eliminates the need for a separate water replenishment path or external water replenishment device, making the water softening equipment more compact and cost-effective.

[0020] Furthermore, by adopting a valve plate assembly structure in which the fixed plate and the moving plate rotate relative to each other, the selective connection of different water channels can be achieved by using a drive mechanism to drive the moving plate to rotate. The switching action is simple and reliable, and the switching between multiple stations can be completed with only one degree of rotational freedom. This simplifies the structural design of the switching assembly, reduces manufacturing costs, and improves the reliability and service life of the switching.

[0021] Furthermore, the water softening device provided by this utility model, based on the aforementioned control valve, possesses the beneficial effects of the aforementioned control valve because it includes the aforementioned control valve. Compared with the water softening device before the improvement, the water softening device of this utility model is smaller in size, has lower manufacturing cost, lower risk of cross-contamination, and provides a better user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The preferred embodiments of this utility model are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the control valve structure of this utility model. Figure 1 ; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the control valve structure of this utility model. Figure 2 ; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the control valve structure of this utility model. Figure 3 The diagram shows the positional relationship of the components after the cover is hidden. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the switching component of this utility model; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fixing piece of this utility model, wherein (a) is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fixing piece. Figure 1 (b) is a schematic diagram of the fixed piece structure. Figure 2 ; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the movable piece of this utility model, wherein (a) is a schematic diagram of the structure of the movable piece. Figure 1 (b) is a schematic diagram of the moving piece. Figure 2 ; Figure 7 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the control valve of this utility model in the water treatment station. Figure 1 ; Figure 8 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the control valve of this utility model in the water treatment station. Figure 2; Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the control valve of this utility model in the positive washing position. Figure 1 ; Figure 10 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the control valve of this utility model in the positive washing position. Figure 2 ; Figure 11 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the control valve of this utility model in the positive washing position. Figure 3 ; Figure 12 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the control valve of this utility model in the positive washing position. Figure 4 ; Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the control valve of this utility model in the backwashing station. Figure 1 ; Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the control valve of this utility model in the backwashing station. Figure 2 ; Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of the control valve of this utility model in the backwashing station. Figure 3 ; Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of the control valve of this utility model in the backwashing station. Figure 4 ; Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of the control valve of this utility model in the salt suction station. Figure 1 ; Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view of the control valve of this utility model in the salt suction station. Figure 2 ; Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view of the control valve of this utility model in the salt suction station. Figure 3 ; Figure 20 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the control valve of this utility model in the salt suction station. Figure 4 ; Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view of the control valve of this utility model in the salt suction station. Figure 5 ; Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view of the control valve of this utility model in the water supply position.

[0023] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram: 11. First pipe section; 111. Inlet channel; 12. Second pipe section; 121. Outlet channel; 13. Third pipe section; 131. First channel; 132. First interface; 141. Salt suction channel; 142. Salt suction interface; 15. Fourth pipe section; 151. Second channel; 152. Second interface; 161. Water supply channel; 162. Water supply interface; 171. First water chamber; 172. Second water chamber; 173. Third water chamber; 174. Fourth water chamber; 18. 1. Wastewater inlet; 2. Switching component; 21. Fixed plate; 211. First water passage hole; 212. Second water passage hole; 213. Third water passage hole; 214. Fourth water passage hole; 22. Moving plate; 221. First water tank; 222. Second water tank; 223. First through hole; 225. Second through hole; 231. Drive component; 232. Transmission component; 2321. First gear; 2322. Second gear; 2323. Drive shaft; 241. Mounting plate; 242. Cover. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical principles of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0025] It should be noted that in the description of this utility model, terms such as "upper" and "lower," which indicate direction or positional relationship, are based on the direction or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. This is merely for ease of description and does not indicate or imply that the device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, it should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0026] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "setting," and "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0027] like Figures 1 to 21As shown, the control valve of this utility model is used in a soft water system. The soft water system has a raw water inlet and a soft water outlet. The control valve includes a housing and a switching component 2. The housing has a first interface 132 for communicating with the raw water inlet, a second interface 152 for communicating with the soft water outlet, and a brine suction interface 142 for communicating with a brine suction component. The housing is provided with an inlet channel 111, an outlet channel 121, and a brine suction channel 141. One end of the inlet channel 111 is suitable for connecting to a water source. One end of the brine suction channel 141 is connected to the brine suction interface 142, and the other end of the brine suction channel 141 can be connected to the second interface 152.

[0028] The switching component 2 is configured to enable the control valve to switch between at least the water production station and the brine suction station. In the water production station, the switching component 2 connects the inlet channel 111 to the first interface 132 and the outlet channel 121 to the second interface 152. In the brine suction station, the switching component 2 disconnects the connection between the inlet channel 111 and the first interface 132 and the connection between the outlet channel 121 and the second interface 152, and allows the brine from the brine suction component to flow into the soft water system sequentially through the brine suction interface 142, the brine suction channel 141, and the second interface 152.

[0029] By connecting one end of the brine suction channel 141 to the brine suction port 142 and the other end to the second port 152, in the brine suction position, the switching component 2 cuts off the connection between the inlet channel 111 and the first port 132 and the connection between the outlet channel 121 and the second port 152, so that the brine from the brine suction component flows into the soft water system sequentially through the brine suction port 142, the brine suction channel 141 and the second port 152. This achieves the separation of the softened water path and the regenerated water path inside the valve body, eliminating the need to integrate the brine suction component inside the valve body. This simplifies the flow channel design of the switching component 2, reduces the number of through holes on the valve plate, reduces the volume of the control valve, reduces the difficulty of valve plate processing, and also avoids the risk of cross-contamination when the valve plate rotates, thus improving the user experience.

[0030] Specifically, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the shell includes a first pipe section 11 and a second pipe section 12. A water inlet channel 111 is formed in the first pipe section 11, and a water outlet channel 121 is formed in the second pipe section 12.

[0031] Preferably, such as Figure 8 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 13 , Figure 18 As shown, a second flow channel 151 is also provided inside the housing. The second end of the salt absorption flow channel 141 is connected to the second flow channel 151. The switching component 2 is configured to enable the first water chamber 171 to be connected to the second interface 152 through the second flow channel 151.

[0032] Specifically, the shell includes a fourth pipe section 15, within which a second flow channel 151 is formed.

[0033] It should be noted that in practical applications, the water inlet channel 111 can be directly connected to the switching component 2, and the switching component 2 can directly control the connection and disconnection between the water inlet channel 111 and the first interface 132. Alternatively, a first water chamber 171 can be set up, and water in the water inlet channel 111 can be introduced into the first water chamber 171 first, and then the connection and disconnection between the first water chamber 171 and the first interface 132 can be controlled by the switching component 2. Such flexible adjustments and changes do not deviate from the principle and scope of this utility model, and should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0034] It should also be noted that those skilled in the art can configure the switching component 2 to switch only between the water production station and the brine absorption station, or the switching component 2 can also switch between the water production station and the forward washing station, or the switching component 2 can also switch between the water production station, the forward washing station, and the reverse washing station. Such specific types and changes to the station switching of the switching component 2 do not deviate from the principle and scope of this utility model and should all be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0035] Preferably, such as Figures 7 to 10 , Figures 13 to 14 , Figures 17 to 19 As shown, a first water chamber 171 is also provided inside the housing. The other end of the water inlet channel 111 is connected to the first water chamber 171 to guide the water source into the first water chamber 171. The switching component 2 is also configured to enable the first water chamber 171 to be connected to or disconnected from the first interface 132; or to enable the first water chamber 171 to be connected to or disconnected from the second interface 152, so that the control valve can switch between the water production station, the forward washing station and the backwashing station.

[0036] By setting a first water chamber 171 inside the housing and connecting the other end of the water inlet channel 111 to the first water chamber 171, water in the water inlet channel 111 can be first introduced into the first water chamber 171 as an intermediate medium. Then, the switching component 2 controls the first water chamber 171 to be connected or disconnected from the first interface 132, or to be connected or disconnected from the second interface 152. This achieves flexible switching between the water production station, the forward washing station, and the backwash station. This allows the control valve to not only switch between the water production station and the brine suction station, but also to switch between the forward washing station and the backwash station through the same switching component 2. Thus, multiple stations such as water production, forward washing, backwashing, and brine suction can be switched through a single switching component 2, eliminating the need for multiple independent control valves or complex switching mechanisms. This simplifies the internal flow channel layout of the valve body and reduces the manufacturing cost of the control valve.

[0037] It should be noted that those skilled in the art can set up a separate wastewater pipe on the soft water system to discharge the rinsing water generated during forward and backwashing through the wastewater pipe. Alternatively, a wastewater interface 18 can be set on the control valve. The switching component 2 is also configured to connect the first interface 132 or the second interface 152 to the wastewater interface 18 so that the wastewater in the soft water system can be discharged through the wastewater interface 18.

[0038] Preferably, such as Figures 1 to 2 , Figure 8 , Figure 12 , Figure 14 , Figure 16 , Figures 19 to 21 As shown, the housing is also provided with a wastewater interface 18, and the switching component 2 is also configured to enable the first interface 132 or the second interface 152 to be connected to the wastewater interface 18 so that the wastewater in the soft water system can be discharged through the wastewater interface 18.

[0039] By setting a wastewater interface 18 on the housing and enabling the switching component 2 to connect the first interface 132 or the second interface 152 to the wastewater interface 18, the rinsing water generated by the forward washing and backwashing stations and the regenerated wastewater generated by the salt absorption and regeneration station are discharged from the wastewater interface 18 in a concentrated manner, which simplifies the external pipeline connection of the control valve and reduces the difficulty of installation and maintenance.

[0040] Specifically, when the control valve is in the positive washing position, the switching component 2 enables the first water chamber 171 to connect with the first interface 132 (e.g., Figure 9 As shown), and connect the second interface 152 to the wastewater interface 18 (as shown). Figure 11 and Figure 12 (As shown). Water enters the first water chamber 171 through the inlet channel 111, then flows through the switching component 2 to the first interface 132 and out through the control valve. It then flows into the soft water system through the raw water inlet to flush the soft water system. The flushing water generated after flushing flows out through the soft water outlet of the soft water system and into the control valve through the second interface 152. Finally, it flows out from the wastewater interface 18, realizing the forward flushing of the soft water system.

[0041] When the control valve is in the backwash position, the switching component 2 can connect the first water chamber 171 to the second interface 152 (e.g., Figure 13 As shown), and connect the first interface 132 to the wastewater interface 18 (as shown). Figures 14 to 16 (As shown). Water enters the first water chamber 171 through the inlet channel 111, then flows through the switching component 2 to the second interface 152 and out of the control valve from the second interface 152. It then flows into the soft water system through the soft water outlet to flush the soft water system. The flushing water generated flows out through the raw water inlet of the soft water system and into the control valve through the first interface 132. Finally, it flows out from the wastewater interface 18, realizing the backwashing of the soft water system.

[0042] Preferably, such as Figure 10 , Figure 13 and Figure 18 As shown, the switching component 2 is also configured to allow the first water chamber 171 to be selectively connected to the outlet channel 121 when the control valve is in at least one of the forward washing position, backwash position, or brine suction position.

[0043] By configuring the switching component 2 to selectively connect the first water chamber 171 to the outlet channel 121, the water in the first water chamber 171 can still flow to the user end through the outlet channel 121 when the control valve is in the forward washing position, backwash position, or brine suction position. This ensures that the user can take water normally when performing operations such as rinsing or resin regeneration, avoiding the problem of water interruption for the user due to the control valve being in a non-water-producing position, and improving the user experience.

[0044] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 15 , Figures 19 to 20 As shown, the housing also has a water supply interface 162 suitable for communication with the salt tank, and a water supply channel 161 is also provided inside the housing. The first end of the water supply channel 161 is connected to the water supply interface 162, and the second end of the water supply channel 161 can be connected to the water inlet channel 111.

[0045] By setting a water replenishment interface 162 on the housing and a water replenishment channel 161 inside the housing, water in the inlet channel 111 can be used to replenish the brine tank through the water replenishment interface 162. This eliminates the need for a separate water replenishment path or an external water replenishment device, making the structure of the water softening equipment more compact and the cost lower.

[0046] Preferably, such as Figure 7 , Figure 9 , Figure 14 , Figure 17 , Figure 20 As shown, a first flow channel 131 is also provided inside the housing. The second end of the water replenishment channel 161 is connected to the first flow channel 131. The switching component 2 is configured to enable the water inlet channel 111 to be connected to or not connected to the first interface 132. When the water inlet channel 111 is connected to the first interface 132, the water inlet channel 111 is connected to the first interface 132 through the first flow channel 131.

[0047] Specifically, the shell includes a third pipe section 13, within which a first flow channel 131 is formed.

[0048] By setting the second end of the water replenishment channel 161 to be connected to the first channel 131, the brine tank can be replenished with water from the water source in the first channel 131 during water production or washing, without occupying an additional valve plate channel. The functions of each channel are clearly defined, which facilitates the layout of the internal channels of the valve body. At the same time, it can also avoid abnormal water replenishment to the brine tank caused by the rotation of the valve plate.

[0049] It should be noted that the connection is not limited to the second end of the water replenishment channel 161 being connected to the first channel 131. For example, the second end of the water replenishment channel 161 can be directly connected to the inlet channel 111, or it can be directly connected to the first water chamber 171. Alternatively, the switching component 2 can be configured to allow the inlet channel 111 to selectively connect to the water replenishment channel 161, and so on. Such flexible adjustments and changes do not deviate from the principles and scope of this utility model and should all be included within the protection scope of this utility model. Preferably, the second end of the water replenishment channel 161 is connected to the first channel 131.

[0050] Preferably, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the switching component 2 includes a fixed plate 21, a movable plate 22, and a driving mechanism. The fixed plate 21 is provided with a plurality of first channels, and the movable plate 22 is provided with a plurality of second channels. The driving mechanism is driven to the movable plate 22 to drive the movable plate 22 to rotate relative to the fixed plate 21, so that a portion of the plurality of second channels overlaps with a portion of the plurality of first channels.

[0051] By adopting a valve plate assembly structure in which the fixed plate 21 and the moving plate 22 rotate relative to each other, the selective connection of different water channels can be achieved by driving the moving plate 22 to rotate using a drive mechanism. The switching action is simple and reliable. The switching between multiple stations can be completed with only one degree of rotational freedom, which simplifies the structural design of the switching component 2, reduces manufacturing costs, and improves the reliability and service life of the switching.

[0052] It should be noted that the switching component 2 is not limited to including a fixed plate 21, a moving plate 22, and a drive mechanism. For example, the switching component 2 can also be configured as a piston-type switching structure, where the reciprocating linear motion of one or more pistons within the valve body enables the control valve to switch between different positions. Alternatively, the switching component 2 can be configured as a valve core rotational switching structure, where the rotational motion of a valve core with channels within the valve body enables the control valve to switch between different positions. Such adjustments and changes to the specific configuration of the switching component 2 do not deviate from the principles and scope of this utility model and should be included within the protection scope of this utility model. Preferably, the switching component 2 is configured to include a fixed plate 21, a moving plate 22, and a drive mechanism.

[0053] It should also be noted that those skilled in the art can configure the drive mechanism to include only the drive component 231, or the drive mechanism can include both the drive component 231 and the transmission component 232. Such adjustments and changes to the specific configuration of the drive mechanism do not deviate from the principles and scope of this utility model and should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0054] Preferably, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the drive mechanism includes a drive component 231 and a transmission component 232. The drive component 231 is driven to the moving piece 22 through the transmission component 232.

[0055] By setting the drive mechanism as a combination of drive component 231 and transmission component 232, the drive component 231 transmits power to the moving plate 22 through the transmission component 232. The type of drive component 231 (such as motor, geared motor, etc.) and the transmission method (such as gear transmission, worm gear transmission, etc.) can be flexibly selected according to actual needs, which improves the adaptability of the control valve to different application scenarios and the controllability of drive accuracy.

[0056] It is understood that those skilled in the art can configure the drive component 231 as a stepper motor, or as a geared motor, or as any other possible motor type. Those skilled in the art can make flexible choices according to actual needs.

[0057] It should be noted that this utility model does not limit the specific type of the transmission component 232. For example, the transmission component 232 can be configured as a gear transmission or a worm gear transmission. Such adjustments and changes to the specific type of the transmission component 232 do not deviate from the principle and scope of this utility model and should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0058] Preferably, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the transmission component 232 includes a transmission shaft 2323, a first gear 2321 and a second gear 2322. The first gear 2321 is connected to the output end of the motor, and the second gear 2322 is connected to the moving plate 22 through the transmission shaft 2323. The first gear 2321 and the second gear 2322 mesh with each other.

[0059] Specifically, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the control valve also includes a mounting plate 241, which is fixedly connected to the housing or integrally formed. A cover 242 is placed on the mounting plate 241 and together with the mounting plate 241 forms a mounting cavity. A transmission component 232 is located in the mounting cavity and is mounted on the mounting plate 241.

[0060] It should be noted that those skilled in the art do not impose any limitations on the specific arrangement of the first water cavity 171 with the inlet channel 111 and the outlet channel 121. For example, the inlet channel 111 and the outlet channel 121 are arranged in parallel, the first water cavity 171 is located at one end of the inlet channel 111 and the outlet channel 121 and the first water cavity 171 is connected to both the inlet channel 111 and the outlet channel 121, the fixed plate 21 is fixedly arranged in the first water cavity 171, and the movable plate 22 is stacked on the fixed plate 21 and can rotate relative to the fixed plate 21, or... Alternatively, the inlet channel 111 and the outlet channel 121 can be arranged at a certain angle. The first water cavity 171 is located at one end of the inlet channel 111 and the outlet channel 121 that are close to each other, and the first water cavity 171 is connected to both the inlet channel 111 and the outlet channel 121. The fixed plate 21 is fixedly arranged in the first water cavity 171, and the movable plate 22 is stacked on the fixed plate 21 and can rotate relative to the fixed plate 21. Such flexible adjustment and change do not deviate from the principle and scope of this utility model, and should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0061] Preferably, such as Figures 1 to 3 , Figures 7 to 10 , Figures 13 to 14 , Figures 17 to 18 As shown, the inlet channel 111 and the outlet channel 121 are arranged in parallel. The first water cavity 171 is located at one end of the inlet channel 111 and the outlet channel 121 and is connected to both the inlet channel 111 and the outlet channel 121. The fixed plate 21 is fixedly arranged in the first water cavity 171, and the movable plate 22 is stacked on the fixed plate 21 and can rotate relative to the fixed plate 21.

[0062] This design allows for a more rational layout of the flow channels within the control valve, reducing its size and thus saving installation space.

[0063] It should be noted that those skilled in the art can set both the fixed piece 21 and the moving piece 22 to be circular, or they can set only the moving piece 22 to be circular and set the fixed piece 21 to be elliptical, rectangular, trapezoidal or any other possible shape. Such adjustments and changes to the specific shapes of the fixed piece 21 and the moving piece 22 do not deviate from the principle and scope of this utility model and should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0064] Preferably, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, both the fixed plate 21 and the moving plate 22 are circular.

[0065] Specifically, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, multiple first channels include a first water passage 211, a second water passage 212, a third water passage 213, and a fourth water passage 214 penetrating the fixed plate 21. Multiple second channels include a first water tank 221, a second water tank 222, and a first through hole 223 and a second through hole 225 penetrating the moving plate 22 along the axial direction of the moving plate 22. The first water tank 221 and the second water tank 222 are both located on the side of the moving plate 22 close to the fixed plate 21, and neither the first water tank 221 nor the second water tank 222 penetrates the moving plate 22. The housing is also provided with a second water cavity 172, a third water cavity 173, and a fourth water cavity 174. The second water cavity 172 is connected to the first interface 132, the third water cavity 173 is connected to the second interface 152, and the fourth water cavity 174 is connected to the wastewater interface 18.

[0066] It is understood that the third water passage 213 on the fixed plate 21 includes a first hole section and a second hole section connected together, wherein the first hole section can communicate with the first water tank 221 and / or the second water tank 222 on the moving plate 22 so that the water flowing through the first water tank 221 and / or the second water tank 222 flows out through the second hole section.

[0067] The specific working mode of the control valve of this utility model will be described below in conjunction with the following scenarios.

[0068] Scenario 1: Water production station like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, when the control valve is in the water production position, the control drive mechanism drives the moving plate 22 to rotate relative to the fixed plate 21, so that the second through hole 225 on the moving plate 22 overlaps with the fourth water passage hole 214 on the fixed plate 21, and the first water groove 221 on the moving plate 22 overlaps with the first water passage hole 211 and the second water passage hole 212 on the fixed plate 21.

[0069] like Figure 7 As shown, water flows from the inlet channel 111 into the first water chamber 171. The water in the first water chamber 171 flows sequentially through the second through hole 225 on the moving plate 22 and the fourth through hole 214 on the fixed plate 21 to the first flow channel 131, and then flows out of the control valve through the first interface 132, and then flows into the soft water system through the raw water inlet to soften the water.

[0070] like Figure 8 As shown, the softened water flows into the control valve through the second interface 152, and then flows sequentially through the second water passage 212 on the fixed plate 21, the first water tank 221 on the moving plate 22, and the first water passage 211 on the fixed plate 21 to the water outlet channel 121 to output the soft water.

[0071] Scenario 2: Washing station like Figures 9 to 12As shown, when the control valve is in the positive washing position, the control drive mechanism drives the moving plate 22 to rotate relative to the fixed plate 21, so that the first through hole 223 on the moving plate 22 overlaps with the first water passage hole 211 on the fixed plate 21, the second through hole 225 on the moving plate 22 overlaps with the fourth water passage hole 214 on the fixed plate 21, and the second water passage hole 212 and the third water passage hole 213 on the fixed plate 21 both overlap with the first water tank 221 on the moving plate 22.

[0072] like Figure 9 As shown, water flows from the inlet channel 111 into the first water chamber 171, causing a portion of the water in the first water chamber 171 to flow sequentially through the second through hole 225 on the moving plate 22 and the fourth water passage hole 214 on the fixed plate 21 to the second water chamber 172. From the second water chamber 172, the water flows through the first channel 131 to the first interface 132, and then flows into the soft water system through the raw water inlet to rinse the resin in the soft water system. like Figure 10 As shown, another portion of the water in the first water chamber 171 flows sequentially through the first through hole 223 on the moving plate 22 and the first water passage hole 211 on the fixed plate 21 to the water outlet channel 121 for the user to use.

[0073] like Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the wastewater generated during rinsing flows from the soft water outlet through the second interface 152 into the control valve, then into the third water chamber 173, and then flows sequentially through the second water passage 212 on the fixed plate 21, the first water tank 221 on the moving plate 22, and the third water passage 213 on the fixed plate 21 into the fourth water chamber 174, and then from the fourth water chamber 174 into the wastewater interface 18, thus realizing the discharge of wastewater during the forward rinsing process.

[0074] Scenario 3: Backwashing station like Figures 13 to 16 As shown, when the control valve is in the backwash position, the control drive mechanism drives the moving plate 22 to rotate relative to the fixed plate 21, so that the first through hole 223 on the moving plate 22 overlaps with the first water passage hole 211 on the fixed plate 21, the first through hole 223 on the moving plate 22 overlaps with the second water passage hole 212 on the fixed plate 21, and the fourth water passage hole 214 on the fixed plate 21 overlaps with the first water tank 221 and the second water tank 222 on the moving plate 22, and the first water tank 221 on the moving plate 22 overlaps with the third water passage hole 213 on the fixed plate 21.

[0075] like Figure 13As shown, water enters the first water chamber 171 from the inlet channel 111. A portion of the water in the first water chamber 171 flows sequentially through the first through hole 223 on the moving plate 22 and the first water passage hole 211 on the fixed plate 21 to the outlet channel 121 for user use. Another portion of the water in the first water chamber 171 flows sequentially through the first through hole 223 on the moving plate 22 and the second water passage hole 212 on the fixed plate 21 to the third water chamber 173, then through the third water chamber 173 to the second interface 152, and finally through the soft water outlet into the soft water system to rinse the resin.

[0076] like Figures 14 to 16 As shown, the wastewater generated during rinsing flows from the raw water inlet through the first interface 132 into the control valve, then into the second water chamber 172, and sequentially through the fourth water passage 214 on the fixed plate 21, the second water tank 222 and the first water tank 221 on the moving plate 22, and the third water passage 213 on the fixed plate 21 into the fourth water chamber 174, and from the fourth water chamber 174 into the wastewater interface 18, and then out of the control valve.

[0077] Scenario 4: Salt Absorption Station like Figures 17 to 21 As shown, when the control valve is in the salt suction position, the control drive mechanism drives the moving plate 22 to rotate relative to the fixed plate 21, so that the first through hole 223 on the moving plate 22 overlaps with the first water passage hole 211 on the fixed plate 21, and the fourth water passage hole 214 on the fixed plate 21 overlaps with the second water tank 222 on the moving plate 22.

[0078] like Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, the water source enters the first water chamber 171 through the water inlet channel 111. The water in the first water chamber 171 flows sequentially through the first through hole 223 on the moving plate 22 and the first water passage hole 211 on the fixed plate 21 to the water outlet channel 121 for the user to use.

[0079] like Figure 19 As shown, the brine in the brine-absorbing component can flow through the brine-absorbing interface 142 into the brine-absorbing channel 141, and then through the second channel 151 and the second interface 152 into the soft water system to regenerate the resin in the soft water system.

[0080] like Figures 20 to 21 As shown, the wastewater generated during regeneration flows into the control valve through the first interface 132, and then flows sequentially through the fourth water passage 214 on the fixed plate 21, the second water tank 222 on the moving plate 22, and the third water passage 213 on the fixed plate 21 into the fourth water chamber 174, and then flows through the fourth water chamber 174 to the wastewater interface 18, thereby realizing the discharge of wastewater during the regeneration process.

[0081] Scenario 5: Water Replenishment Station like Figure 7 and Figure 22As shown, when the control valve is in the water-producing position, water flows from the inlet channel 111 into the first water chamber 171. The water in the first water chamber 171 flows sequentially through the second through hole 225 on the moving plate 22 and the fourth through hole 214 on the fixed plate 21 to the first flow channel 131 (as shown). Figure 7 As shown), at the same time, some water flows into the water supply channel 161 and flows out of the control valve through the water supply interface 162 (as shown). Figure 22 (As shown), the water then flows into the salt tank to replenish it.

[0082] It is understandable that the water passage holes on the moving plate 22 and the water passage holes on the fixed plate 21 overlap, which may be partial or complete.

[0083] In addition, this utility model also provides a water softening device, which includes a water softening system and the control valve described in any of the above.

[0084] It is understood that a water softening device can be a water softener or a water purifier and softener combo. Such adjustments and changes to the specific configuration of the water softening device do not deviate from the principles and scope of this utility model and should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0085] For example, a water softening device is a water softener.

[0086] The technical solution of this utility model has been described in conjunction with the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the protection scope of this utility model is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principle of this utility model, those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features, and the technical solutions after these changes or substitutions will all fall within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A control valve, characterized in that, For use in a water softening system, the water softening system having a raw water inlet and a softened water outlet, the control valve includes: The housing has a first interface (132) for communication with the raw water inlet, a second interface (152) for communication with the soft water outlet, and a brine suction interface (142) for communication with the brine suction component. The housing contains an inlet channel (111), an outlet channel (121), and a brine suction channel (141). One end of the inlet channel (111) is connected to a water source. The first end of the brine suction channel (141) is connected to the brine suction interface (142), and the second end of the brine suction channel (141) is connected to the second interface (152). Switching component (2) is configured to enable the control valve to switch between at least the water production station and the brine suction station; In the water production station, the switching component (2) connects the inlet channel (111) to the first interface (132) and the outlet channel (121) to the second interface (152); in the salt absorption station, the switching component (2) disconnects the connection between the inlet channel (111) and the first interface (132) and disconnects the connection between the outlet channel (121) and the second interface (152), and allows the brine from the salt absorption component to flow into the soft water system sequentially through the salt absorption interface (142), the salt absorption channel (141) and the second interface (152).

2. The control valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing also includes a first water chamber (171), and the other end of the water inlet channel (111) is connected to the first water chamber (171) to guide water into the first water chamber (171). The switching component (2) is also configured to enable the first water chamber (171) to be connected to or disconnected from the first interface (132); or to enable the first water chamber (171) to be connected to or disconnected from the second interface (152), so that the control valve can switch between the water production station, the forward washing station and the reverse washing station.

3. The control valve according to claim 2, characterized in that, The housing is also provided with a second flow channel (151), the second end of the salt absorption flow channel (141) is connected to the second flow channel (151), and the switching component (2) is configured to enable the first water chamber (171) to be connected to the second interface (152) through the second flow channel (151).

4. The control valve according to claim 2, characterized in that, The housing is also provided with a wastewater interface (18), and the switching component (2) is also configured to enable the first interface (132) or the second interface (152) to be connected to the wastewater interface (18) so that the wastewater in the soft water system is discharged through the wastewater interface (18).

5. The control valve according to claim 2, characterized in that, The switching component (2) is further configured to allow the first water chamber (171) to selectively communicate with the water outlet channel (121) when the control valve is in at least one of the forward washing position, the backwash position, or the salt absorption position.

6. The control valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing also has a water supply interface (162) suitable for communication with the salt tank, and a water supply channel (161) is provided inside the housing. The first end of the water supply channel (161) is connected to the water supply interface (162), and the second end of the water supply channel (161) can be connected to the water inlet channel (111).

7. The control valve according to claim 6, characterized in that, The housing is provided with a first flow channel (131), and the second end of the water replenishment channel (161) is connected to the first flow channel (131). The switching component (2) is configured to connect or not connect the water inlet channel (111) to the first interface (132). When the water inlet channel (111) is connected to the first interface (132), the water inlet channel (111) is connected to the first interface (132) through the first flow channel (131).

8. The control valve according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The switching component (2) includes a fixed plate (21), a movable plate (22), and a driving mechanism. The fixed plate (21) is provided with a plurality of first channels, and the movable plate (22) is provided with a plurality of second channels. The driving mechanism is drivenly connected to the movable plate (22) to drive the movable plate (22) to rotate relative to the fixed plate (21) so that a portion of the plurality of second channels overlaps with a portion of the plurality of first channels.

9. The control valve according to claim 8, characterized in that, The driving mechanism includes a driving component (231) and a transmission component (232), wherein the driving component (231) is driven to the moving piece (22) through the transmission component (232).

10. A water softening device, characterized in that, The water softening equipment includes a water softening system and a control valve as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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