Water volume regulating valve and water heater

Abstract

The utility model belongs to water heater technical field discloses a kind of water quantity regulating valve and water heater.The water quantity regulating valve includes valve main body and switching mechanism, valve main body includes water inlet and water outlet, the valve main body is provided with communicating pipe, the communicating pipe is opened with one section water hole and two section water holes, and the one section water hole is connected with the water inlet and the water outlet, and the two section water holes are connected with the water inlet and the water outlet;Switching mechanism includes electromagnetic valve and sealing element, the electromagnetic valve includes valve core, the sealing element is arranged between the valve core and the two section water holes, and the valve core drives the sealing element to move to open or close the two section water holes.The water quantity regulating valve can quickly and accurately control the size of water flow according to water quantity demand, and the structure is simple, and the cost is lower.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of water heater technology, and in particular to a water flow regulating valve and a water heater. Background Technology

[0002] A gas water heater is a device that heats cold water by burning gas. To meet people's demands for a better bathing experience, constant temperature control has become a primary requirement for gas water heater temperature control. To achieve precise control of the outlet water temperature and improve the user experience, existing gas water heaters often use shape memory alloy water flow sensors or water flow servo valves to control the water volume.

[0003] However, shape memory alloy water flow sensors typically use an embedded titanium-nickel alloy wire wound into a spiral spring structure to sense the inlet water temperature and pre-adjust the inlet water flow rate. However, long-term use will cause the spring contraction force to decrease due to the fatigue of the titanium-nickel alloy wire, resulting in a delay in water temperature regulation. Water flow servo valves work in conjunction with gas proportional valves to achieve precise water temperature constantness and water volume stability, but the manufacturing process is complex and the cost is high. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this utility model is to provide a water flow regulating valve and a water heater that can quickly and accurately control the flow rate according to water demand, and has a simple structure and low cost.

[0005] To achieve this objective, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] A water flow regulating valve, comprising:

[0007] The valve body includes an inlet and an outlet. A connecting pipe is provided inside the valve body. The connecting pipe has a first water passage hole and a second water passage hole. The first water passage hole connects the inlet and the outlet, and the second water passage hole connects the inlet and the outlet.

[0008] The switching mechanism includes a solenoid valve and a seal. The solenoid valve includes a valve core, and the seal is disposed between the valve core and the two-stage water passage. The valve core drives the seal to move to open or close the two-stage water passage.

[0009] Preferably, the sealing element includes a sealing part and a sealing ring. The sealing part is disposed within the sealing ring and connected to the sealing ring through a flexible connecting part. The sealing ring is disposed between the solenoid valve and the valve body to seal the gap between the solenoid valve and the valve body. The valve core drives the sealing part to move.

[0010] Preferably, the switching mechanism further includes a second bracket, which is disposed on the side of the sealing portion facing the valve core. The second bracket includes a first snap-fit ​​post, which passes through the sealing portion to fix the second bracket to the sealing portion.

[0011] Preferably, the second bracket further includes at least one second snap-fit ​​post, which passes through the sealing portion to restrict relative rotation between the second bracket and the sealing portion.

[0012] Preferably, the first snap-fit ​​post has a first connecting hole that extends axially through the second bracket.

[0013] Preferably, the second bracket is further provided with a second connecting hole. The first connecting hole includes a first large diameter segment and a first small diameter segment that are connected. The second connecting hole includes a second large diameter segment and a second small diameter segment that are connected. The arrangement directions of the first large diameter segment and the first small diameter segment are opposite to the arrangement directions of the second large diameter segment and the second small diameter segment.

[0014] Preferably, the second bracket has an abutment protrusion on the side facing the solenoid valve, and the diameter of the abutment protrusion gradually decreases in the direction away from the second bracket, and the valve core drives the second bracket to move through the abutment protrusion.

[0015] Preferably, the sealing ring has a fixing groove on the side facing the solenoid valve, and the solenoid valve also includes a sleeve, the valve core is movably disposed in the sleeve, and one end of the sleeve is disposed in the fixing groove and is sealed and connected to the sealing ring.

[0016] Preferably, the water flow regulating valve further includes a filter element, wherein the first water passage hole is disposed on the side wall of the connecting pipe, the second water passage hole is disposed at the end of the connecting pipe away from the outlet, and the filter element is disposed inside the connecting pipe and is capable of filtering the water flowing through the first water passage hole.

[0017] A water heater, including the aforementioned water flow regulating valve.

[0018] The beneficial effects of this utility model are:

[0019] This utility model provides a water flow regulating valve and a water heater. In this water flow regulating valve, water enters from the inlet and flows out from the outlet after passing through a first-stage and a second-stage water passage in the connecting pipe, ensuring the water flow regulating capacity of the valve. The solenoid valve of the switching mechanism controls the movement of the sealing element according to water demand. When the water demand is high, the valve core of the solenoid valve moves away from the second-stage water passage, disengaging the sealing element from the connecting pipe to open the second-stage water passage. At this time, water can pass through both the first-stage and second-stage water passages simultaneously, resulting in a larger water flow rate. When the water demand is low, the valve core of the solenoid valve moves closer to the second-stage water passage, causing the sealing element to abut against the connecting pipe to close the second-stage water passage. At this time, water can only pass through the first-stage water passage, resulting in a smaller water flow rate.

[0020] This water flow regulating valve can quickly and accurately control the flow rate according to water demand, and it has a simple structure and low cost. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of the water flow regulating valve described in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0022] Figure 2 This is a first cross-sectional view of the water flow regulating valve described in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0023] Figure 3 This is a second sectional view of the water flow regulating valve described in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0024] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the valve body described in an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0025] Figure 5 This is a first structural schematic diagram of the valve body according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0026] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the second structure of the valve body according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0027] Figure 7 This is a third structural schematic diagram of the valve body according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0028] Figure 8 This is an exploded view of the flow detection mechanism described in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0029] Figure 9 This is a first structural schematic diagram of the sealing element according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0030] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the second structure of the sealing element according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 11This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second support described in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the second bracket described in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] In the picture:

[0034] 1. Valve body; 11. Inlet; 12. Outlet; 13. Connecting pipe; 131. First section water passage hole; 1311. Split hole; 132. Second section water passage hole; 14. First pipe section; 141. First assembly slot; 142. Sensor holder; 15. Second pipe section; 151. Second assembly slot; 152. Component holder; 153. First flange; 16. Filter element; 171. First support member; 172. Second support member; 173. Third support member; 18. Pin;

[0035] 2. Switching mechanism; 21. Solenoid valve; 211. Valve core; 2111. Slide rod; 2112. Pre-tightening component; 2113. Elastic component; 2114. Abutment block; 212. Housing; 213. Second flange; 214. Sleeve; 2141. Limiting part; 2142. Sliding part; 215. Magnetic rod; 216. Fixing cap; 22. Sealing component; 221. Sealing part; 222. Sealing ring; 223. Connecting part; 224. Fixing groove; 225. Sealing surface; 23. Second bracket; 231. First snap-fit ​​post; 232. Second snap-fit ​​post; 233. Sealing frustum; 234. First connecting hole; 2341. First large diameter section; 2342. First small diameter section; 235. Second connecting hole; 2351. Second large diameter section; 2352. Second small diameter section; 236. Abutment boss;

[0036] 3. Flow detection mechanism; 31. Sleeve; 311. First support; 312. Diverter blade; 313. L-shaped slot; 32. Magnetic rotor; 321. Magnetic blade; 322. Central shaft; 33. Hall element; 34. Flow stabilizer plate; 341. Fixing ring; 342. Diverter component; 343. Snap-fit ​​protrusion; 35. Ball bearing; 36. Encapsulant; 37. Clamp;

[0037] 4. Temperature sensor. Detailed Implementation

[0038] The embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar parts or parts having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain this utility model, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model.

[0039] In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected," "linked," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection or a detachable connection; a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; or the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0040] In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0041] The technical solution of this utility model will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0042] This utility model provides a gas water heater, which includes a fan, a combustion chamber, and a heat exchanger. The combustion chamber has an air inlet, and the fan outlet is connected to the air inlet. The fan is used to supply a certain amount of air into the combustion chamber. A burner is located at the bottom of the combustion chamber, and the gas inlet of the burner is connected to a gas pipe. A gas valve is installed on the gas pipe to control the gas intake. That is, by controlling the fan speed, the air supply to the burner can be controlled; by controlling the opening of the gas valve, the gas supply can be controlled; and by controlling the fan speed and the gas valve opening, the air-gas ratio can be controlled, thereby controlling the combustion thermal efficiency and calorific value of the burner.

[0043] The heat exchanger has a cold water inlet and a hot water outlet. An external water supply system (such as a faucet) supplies cold water to the heat exchanger through the cold water inlet. The cold water is heated by the burner in the heat exchanger and then supplied to water-using devices (such as bathing equipment) through the hot water outlet. To achieve precise control of the outlet water temperature and improve user experience, existing gas water heaters often use shape memory alloy flow sensors or flow servo valves to control the water flow. However, shape memory alloy flow sensors typically use an embedded titanium-nickel alloy wire wound into a spiral spring structure to sense the inlet water temperature and pre-adjust the inlet water flow. But with long-term use, fatigue of the titanium-nickel alloy wire can cause a decrease in spring contraction force, leading to a delay in water temperature regulation. Flow servo valves, working in conjunction with a gas proportional valve, achieve precise water temperature stability and water flow consistency, but their manufacturing process is complex and costly.

[0044] like Figures 1-4 As shown, to solve the above problems, this embodiment provides a water flow regulating valve, which includes a valve body 1 and a switching mechanism 2. The valve body 1 includes an inlet 11 and an outlet 12. A connecting pipe 13 is provided inside the valve body 1. The connecting pipe 13 has a first water passage hole 131 and a second water passage hole 132. The first water passage hole 131 connects the inlet 11 and the outlet 12, and the second water passage hole 132 connects the inlet 11 and the outlet 12. The switching mechanism 2 includes a solenoid valve 21 and a sealing element 22. The solenoid valve 21 includes a valve core 211. The sealing element 22 is disposed between the valve core 211 and the second water passage hole 132. The valve core 211 drives the sealing element 22 to move to open or close the second water passage hole 132.

[0045] In this water flow regulating valve, water enters through the inlet 11 and flows out through the outlet 12 after passing through the first water passage 131 and the second water passage 132 of the connecting pipe 13, ensuring the water flow regulating capacity of the valve. The solenoid valve 21 of the switching mechanism 2 can control the movement of the sealing element 22 according to the water flow demand, such as... Figure 2 As shown, when the water demand is high, the valve core 211 of the solenoid valve 21 moves away from the second-stage water passage 132, causing the seal 22 to disengage from the connecting pipe 13 to open the second-stage water passage 132. At this time, water can pass through both the first-stage water passage 131 and the second-stage water passage 132 of the connecting pipe 13 simultaneously, resulting in a larger water flow rate. Figure 3 As shown, when the water demand is low, the valve core 211 of the solenoid valve 21 moves towards the direction of the second water passage 132, so that the sealing element 22 abuts against the connecting pipe 13 to close the second water passage 132. At this time, the connecting pipe 13 can only use the first water passage 131 to pass water, and the water flow is small.

[0046] This water flow regulating valve can quickly and accurately control the flow rate according to water demand, and it has a simple structure and low cost.

[0047] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the valve body 1 includes a first pipe section 14 and a second pipe section 15. The first pipe section 14 is connected to the side wall of the second pipe section 15 to achieve communication between the first pipe section 14 and the second pipe section 15. The inlet 11 is located at the end of the first pipe section 14 away from the second pipe section 15, and the outlet 12 is located at one end of the second pipe section 15. A connecting pipe 13 is located inside the second pipe section 15. Water entering through the inlet 11 flows through the first pipe section 14 into the second pipe section 15, then flows through the connecting pipe 13 to the outlet 12, and is discharged from the outlet 12.

[0048] like Figures 1-3 As shown, the valve body 1 also includes a filter element 16, which is disposed inside the connecting pipe 13. A first water passage hole 131 is disposed on the side wall of the connecting pipe 13, and a second water passage hole 132 is disposed at the end of the connecting pipe 13 away from the outlet 12. The filter element 16 is disposed inside the connecting pipe 13 and can filter the water flowing through the first water passage hole 131. The filter element 16 can filter some solid impurities in the water flow, preventing solid impurities from passing through the water flow regulating valve.

[0049] In some embodiments, the filter element 16 can also filter water flowing through the two-stage water passage 132.

[0050] Preferably, the first pipe section 14 and the second pipe section 15 are arranged perpendicularly, and a water passage hole 131 of the connecting pipe 13 is opened on the side of the connecting pipe 13 directly opposite the first pipe section 14, so that water from the first pipe section 14 can smoothly pass through the water passage hole 131 into the connecting pipe 13. Figure 6 As shown, a water passage 131 includes multiple branch holes 1311. Through the design of dispersed hole positions, it is possible to avoid the impact on the components when the water flow is too large, and to accurately control the water inlet flow rate.

[0051] Specifically, multiple branch holes 1311 are evenly distributed circumferentially around the central axis of the first pipe section 14, and the outer contour of the branch holes 1311 is a series of serrations, with rounded corners between adjacent serrations to further reduce water flow impact and ensure stable water output.

[0052] like Figure 7 As shown, in order to ensure the stability of the connecting pipe 13, the valve body 1 also includes a first support member 171 and a second support member 172. The first support member 171 and the second support member 172 are disposed between the connecting pipe 13 and the second pipe section 15. The first support member 171 is fixedly connected to the connecting pipe 13 and the second pipe section 15, and the second support member 172 is fixedly connected to the connecting pipe 13 and the second pipe section 15. A water passage hole 131 is located between the first support member 171 and the second support member 172.

[0053] Furthermore, the valve body 1 also includes a third support member 173, which is disposed between the connecting pipe 13 and the second pipe section 15. The third support member 173 is fixedly connected between the connecting pipe 13 and the second pipe section 15, and the first support member 171, the second support member 172, and the third support member 173 are spaced apart from each other, thereby improving the stability of the connecting pipe 13.

[0054] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 8 As shown, in order to accurately obtain the water inflow in the first pipe section 14, the water flow regulating valve also includes a flow detection mechanism 3. The flow detection mechanism 3 includes a sleeve 31, a magnetic rotor 32, and a Hall element 33. The sleeve 31 is disposed inside the first pipe section 14 and is coaxially disposed with the first pipe section 14. A first support 311 is disposed at one end of the sleeve 31 near the water inlet 11. The first support 311 includes a plurality of diverting blades 312 that are spaced apart and inclined along the inner circumference of the sleeve 31. The magnetic rotor 32 is rotatably disposed inside the sleeve 31. A plurality of magnetic blades 321 are disposed on the outer circumference of the magnetic rotor 32. The Hall element 33 is disposed outside the first pipe section 14 and corresponds to the magnetic rotor 32.

[0055] When water enters through inlet 11, multiple diverting vanes 312 cause the water entering sleeve 31 to move forward in a spiral shape, driving the magnetic rotor 32 to rotate via magnetic vanes 321. The rotational speed of the magnetic rotor 32 changes linearly with the flow rate. Therefore, Hall element 33 senses the magnetic vanes 321 and outputs a corresponding pulse signal to the controller, which can then determine the water flow rate.

[0056] It is worth noting that the outer circumferential surface of the sleeve 31 abuts against the inner wall of the first pipe, so that all the water entering from the inlet 11 passes through the sleeve 31, thereby ensuring the accuracy of flow monitoring.

[0057] Preferably, the flow detection mechanism 3 further includes a flow stabilizing plate 34. The flow stabilizing plate 34 includes a fixed ring 341 and a plurality of flow dividers 342 disposed within the fixed ring 341. The fixed ring 341 is fixedly disposed at one end of the sleeve 31 near the second pipe section 15. The gap between the flow dividers 342 forms a flow stabilizing gap. When the water pressure is unstable, the flow stabilizing plate 34 can be used to divide a stream of water into multiple streams, thereby achieving pressure reduction and flow stabilization, and ensuring the stability of the water flow.

[0058] Furthermore, the magnetic rotor 32 includes a central rotating shaft 322, and multiple magnetic blades 321 are circumferentially and equally spaced around the outer periphery of the central rotating shaft 322. One end of the central rotating shaft 322 is rotatably connected to the first support 311, and the other end is rotatably connected to the flow stabilizing plate 34. The first support 311 and the flow stabilizing plate 34 are used to fix the axial and radial movement of the magnetic rotor 32, ensuring that the magnetic rotor 32 can only rotate and guaranteeing its stability. At the same time, the first support 311 and the flow stabilizing plate 34 are inherent structures of the flow detection mechanism 3, effectively reducing the structural complexity of the flow detection mechanism 3 and lowering costs.

[0059] To facilitate the assembly of the flow stabilizer plate 34 and the sleeve 31, the outer periphery of the fixing ring 341 is provided with a snap-fit ​​protrusion 343, and the side wall of the sleeve 31 is provided with an L-shaped groove 313 that extends to the end of the sleeve 31. When the fixing ring 341 is inserted into the sleeve 31, the snap-fit ​​protrusion 343 enters the L-shaped groove 313. By rotating the fixing ring 341, the snap-fit ​​protrusion 343 can be snapped and fixed with the L-shaped groove 313.

[0060] Understandably, to reduce the rotational resistance between the magnetic rotor 32 and the first support 311, the first support 311 has a first rotating groove, in which a ball bearing 35 is disposed. The end of the central rotating shaft 322 abuts against the ball bearing 35, allowing the ball bearing 35 to rotate freely within the first rotating groove, thus reducing the resistance experienced by the magnetic rotor 32 during rotation. Similarly, the flow stabilizer 34 has a second rotating groove, in which a ball bearing 35 is disposed. The end of the central rotating shaft 322 abuts against the ball bearing 35, allowing the ball bearing 35 to rotate freely within the second rotating groove, thus reducing the resistance experienced by the magnetic rotor 32 during rotation.

[0061] Furthermore, after the flow detection mechanism 3 is installed into the first pipe section 14, the flow detection mechanism 3 is fixed to the first pipe section 14 by installing a clamp 37 at the inlet 11, which ensures the stability of the flow detection mechanism 3 and has a simple structure that is easy to disassemble and assemble.

[0062] like Figures 5-7 As shown, in this embodiment, a component seat 152 is provided on the outside of the valve body 1, and the Hall element 33 is fixedly disposed in the component seat 152 and sealed and fixed by potting compound 36, so that the Hall element 33 is not affected by the external environment and the Hall element 33 is guaranteed to work stably.

[0063] In this embodiment, the valve body 1 is formed by casting, and along the circumference of the first pipe section 14, the opening direction of the element seat 152 is set at an angle to the opening direction of the outlet 12. This structure makes the core-pulling direction of the outlet 12 different from the core-pulling direction of the element seat 152, thus avoiding mutual interference.

[0064] Preferably, the opening direction of the component seat 152 is perpendicular to the opening direction of the outlet 12. Since the opening direction of the outlet 12 is the axial direction of the second pipe section 15, this structural arrangement can prevent the core-pulling direction of the component seat 152 from being as far apart as possible from the core-pulling directions of both ends of the second pipe section 15 along the axial direction.

[0065] In this embodiment, the valve body 1 also includes a pin 18. A first assembly groove 141 is provided at the inlet 11 of the first pipe section 14, and a second assembly groove 151 is provided at the outlet 12 of the second pipe section 15. Both the first assembly groove 141 and the second assembly groove 151 are used to connect other shaft groove structure components with O-ring seals and form a radial seal through the O-ring seals. Both the first pipe section 14 and the second pipe section 15 are provided with pins 18, which can lock and fix the corresponding shaft groove structure components.

[0066] Understandably, when adjusting water flow, it's necessary to obtain not only water volume data but also water temperature data. For example... Figure 1 As shown, in order to achieve the above purpose, the water flow regulating valve also includes a temperature sensor 4. A sensor seat 142 is provided on the second pipe section 15. The temperature sensor 4 is fixedly installed in the sensor seat 142, and the detection end of the temperature sensor 4 is inserted into the second pipe section 15 to perform temperature detection.

[0067] To facilitate the detection of average water temperature by the temperature sensor 4, the angle between the first support member 171 and the second support member 172 along the circumference of the connecting pipe 13 is greater than 120°, and the detection end of the temperature sensor 4 is located between the first support member 171 and the second support member 172. This structure results in a larger chamber for the detection end of the temperature sensor 4, allowing for a larger water volume and less noticeable water temperature changes, thus enabling accurate detection of the average water temperature.

[0068] It is worth noting that, in order to ensure the connectivity of the three chambers formed between each pair of the first support member 171, the second support member 172, and the third support member 173, each of the three support members is spaced apart from the end face of the connecting pipe 13 opposite to the outlet 12. This structure ensures that when the sealing member 22 of the switching mechanism 2 abuts against and seals the second water passage, it prevents the sealing member 22 from blocking the three chambers formed between each pair of the first support member 171, the second support member 172, and the third support member 173, thus ensuring the connectivity between the three chambers and facilitating water flow into them.

[0069] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the second pipe section 15 is provided with a first flange 153 at the end opposite to the outlet 12, and the solenoid valve 21 is provided with a second flange 213. The first flange 153 and the second flange 213 abut against each other and are fixedly connected by bolts so that the switching mechanism 2 is fixed to the valve body 1, so that the water flow regulating valve forms a whole.

[0070] like Figures 1-3 As shown, the solenoid valve 21 includes a housing 212, a sleeve 214, an electromagnetic coil, and a magnetic rod 215. The sleeve 214 is disposed inside the housing 212, and the electromagnetic coil is located between the housing 212 and the sleeve 214. The magnetic rod 215 and the valve core 211 are both slidably disposed inside the sleeve 214. When the electromagnetic coil is energized, it can drive the magnetic rod 215 to move, thereby pushing the valve core 211 to move closer to the sealing element 22, so as to push the sealing element 22 to block the second water passage hole 132.

[0071] In this embodiment, the solenoid valve 21 further includes a fixing cap 216, and the sleeve 214 includes a limiting part 2141 and a sliding part 2142. The diameter of the limiting part 2141 is larger than the diameter of the sliding part 2142. The valve core 211 is slidably disposed on the sliding part 2142. The limiting part 2141 abuts against the second flange 213. The sliding part 2142 passes through the outer shell 212 and is fixedly connected to the fixing cap 216. The fixing cap 216 fixes the sleeve 214 and the outer shell 212 together.

[0072] like Figure 1 As shown, the valve core 211 includes a slide rod 2111, a pre-tightening member 2112, an elastic member 2113, and an abutment block 2114. One end of the slide rod 2111 is provided with a limiting platform. The pre-tightening member 2112 and the elastic member 2113 are both sleeved on the slide rod 2111, and one end of the elastic member 2113 abuts against the pre-tightening member 2112, while the other end of the elastic member 2113 abuts against the limiting platform of the slide rod 2111. The abutment block 2114 is fixedly disposed at the end of the slide rod 2111 away from the limiting platform. The elastic member 2113 elastically presses the pre-tightening member 2112 against the abutment block 2114.

[0073] The slide rod 2111 serves as the main structure and is used to slide stably within the sleeve 214. The abutment block 2114 abuts against the second bracket 23 and can drive the sealing element 22 to block the two-stage water passage hole 132. During long-term use, the fixation between the abutment block 2114 and the slide rod 2111 may loosen. The elastic element 2113 can apply an elastic preload to the abutment block 2114 through the preload element 2112, ensuring that the abutment block 2114 is always in a stable state with the slide rod 2111, thereby improving the overall stability of the valve core 211.

[0074] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, the sealing element 22 includes a sealing part 221 and a sealing ring 222. The sealing part 221 is disposed inside the sealing ring 222 and is connected to the sealing ring 222 through a flexible connecting part 223. The sealing ring 222 is disposed between the solenoid valve 21 and the valve body 1 to seal the gap between the solenoid valve 21 and the valve body 1. The valve core 211 drives the sealing part 221 to move.

[0075] The sealing ring 222 serves both to seal the valve body 1 to prevent leakage between the valve body 1 and the solenoid valve 21, and to fix the sealing element 22. When the valve core 211 moves towards the second-stage water passage 132, the sealing part 221 causes the flexible connecting part 223 to deform, thus allowing the sealing part 221 to move and block the second-stage water passage 132, enabling a small water supply. When the solenoid valve 21 is de-energized, the sealing part 221, under water pressure, pushes the valve core 211 back to its original position, thereby opening the second-stage water passage 132 and enabling a large water supply.

[0076] like Figure 10 As shown, a fixing groove 224 is provided on the side of the sealing ring 222 facing the solenoid valve 21. The valve core 211 is movably disposed within the sleeve 214, and one end of the sleeve 214 is disposed within the fixing groove 224 and is sealed to the sealing ring 222. The fixing groove 224 improves the stability of the relative position between the sealing element 22 and the sleeve 214, thus ensuring the stability of the position of the sealing part 221 before and after movement, and preventing the sealing part 221 from shifting during long-term use. On the other hand, it extends the path for water overflow, further improving the sealing performance.

[0077] It is understandable that the seal 22 is a whole. Although the local hardness can be changed by controlling the thickness, its overall texture is relatively soft. When the valve core 211 pushes the seal 221 to move, the seal 221 is prone to deformation, which will result in the inability to seal the second water passage 132.

[0078] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, to solve this problem, the switching mechanism 2 further includes a second bracket 23. The second bracket 23 is disposed on the side of the sealing part 221 facing the valve core 211. The second bracket 23 includes a first snap-fit ​​post 231, which passes through the sealing part 221 to fix the second bracket 23 to the sealing part 221. The second bracket 23 is fixedly connected to the sealing part 221 through the first snap-fit ​​post 231. When the valve core 211 moves toward the two-stage water passage 132, the sealing part 221 is driven to move by the second bracket 23. At this time, the sealing part 221 is supported by the second bracket 23 and its shape does not change, thus effectively sealing the two-stage water passage 132.

[0079] Furthermore, the second bracket 23 also includes at least one second locking post 232, which passes through the sealing portion 221 to restrict relative rotation between the second bracket 23 and the sealing portion 221. The first locking post 231 is located at the center of the second bracket 23, and the second locking post 232 is located beside the first locking post 231. Through the cooperation of the first locking post 231 and the second locking post 232, the second bracket 23 can be fixed to the sealing portion 221, and rotation of the second bracket 23 relative to the sealing portion 221 can be prevented.

[0080] Specifically, the second bracket 23 includes two second locking posts 232, which are symmetrically arranged about the first locking post 231. The second bracket 23 has a symmetrical structure, and the forces between the two second locking posts 232 and the sealing part 221 are symmetrical, which can ensure the stability of the relative position between the second bracket 23 and the sealing part 221.

[0081] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, a sealing frustum 233 protrudes from the outer periphery of the second bracket 23, and an annular sealing surface 225 protrudes from the connecting part 223 of the seal 22 toward the solenoid valve 21. The sealing surface 225 and the sealing frustum 233 are in sealing contact to further improve the sealing performance of the seal 22.

[0082] It is worth noting that a telescopic cavity is formed between the seal 22 and the sleeve 214. When the sealing part 221 of the seal 22 approaches or moves away from the second water passage 132, the volume of the telescopic cavity changes, which restricts the movement of the sealing part 221. To solve the above problem, the first snap-fit ​​post 231 has a first connecting hole 234 that extends axially through the second bracket 23. Water can enter the telescopic cavity through the first connecting hole 234. The first connecting hole 234 can balance the pressure on both sides of the seal 22, allowing water to fill or squeeze out of the telescopic cavity, thereby ensuring that the sealing part 221 can move freely.

[0083] However, since the first locking pin 231 is located at the center of the second bracket 23, the valve core 211 will block the first connecting hole 234 when it abuts against the second bracket 23. To ensure the connectivity between the two sides of the seal 22, the second bracket 23 is also provided with a second connecting hole 235, which is opened in one of the second locking pins 232 and extends axially through the second bracket 23. The arrangement of the first connecting hole 234 and the second connecting hole 235 can further balance the pressure on both sides of the seal 22, with a significant effect.

[0084] like Figure 12As shown, the first connecting hole 234 includes a first large diameter section 2341 and a first small diameter section 2342 that are connected together, and the second connecting hole 235 includes a second large diameter section 2351 and a second small diameter section 2352 that are connected together, and the arrangement direction of the first large diameter section 2341 and the first small diameter section 2342 is opposite to the arrangement direction of the second large diameter section 2351 and the second small diameter section 2352.

[0085] Due to the throttling effect of the first small diameter section 2342 and the second small diameter section 2352, when the sealing part 221 moves with the bracket, the water flow direction of the first connecting hole 234 is opposite to the water flow direction of the second connecting hole 235. This structure causes a water flow discharge backflow between the first connecting hole 234 and the second connecting hole 235, thereby ensuring the smooth flow of water in the expansion cavity and preventing the water flow into or out of the expansion cavity from being significantly obstructed, which would affect the movement of the sealing part 221.

[0086] In this embodiment, the second bracket 23 has a protruding abutment 236 on the side facing the solenoid valve 21, and the diameter of the abutment 236 gradually decreases along the direction away from the second bracket 23. The valve core 211 drives the second bracket 23 to move through the abutment 236. This structure allows the force exerted by the valve core 211 on the abutment 236 to be evenly distributed on the second bracket 23, increasing the stability of the second bracket 23 and preventing the second bracket 23 from deforming under the action of the valve core 211.

[0087] Obviously, the above embodiments of this utility model are merely examples for clearly illustrating the present utility model, and are not intended to limit the implementation of the present utility model. Those skilled in the art can make other variations or modifications based on the above description. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively list all possible implementations here. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of the claims of this utility model.

Claims

1. A water flow regulating valve, characterized in that, include: The valve body (1) includes an inlet (11) and an outlet (12). A connecting pipe (13) is provided inside the valve body (1). The connecting pipe (13) has a first water passage hole (131) and a second water passage hole (132). The first water passage hole (131) connects the inlet (11) and the outlet (12), and the second water passage hole (132) connects the inlet (11) and the outlet (12). The switching mechanism (2) includes a solenoid valve (21) and a seal (22). The solenoid valve (21) includes a valve core (211). The seal (22) is disposed between the valve core (211) and the two-stage water passage (132). The valve core (211) drives the seal (22) to move to open or close the two-stage water passage (132).

2. The water flow regulating valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sealing element (22) includes a sealing part (221) and a sealing ring (222). The sealing part (221) is disposed inside the sealing ring (222) and connected to the sealing ring (222) through a flexible connecting part (223). The sealing ring (222) is disposed between the solenoid valve (21) and the valve body (1) to seal the gap between the solenoid valve (21) and the valve body (1). The valve core (211) drives the sealing part (221) to move.

3. The water flow regulating valve according to claim 2, characterized in that, The switching mechanism (2) further includes a second bracket (23), which is disposed on the side of the sealing part (221) facing the valve core (211). The second bracket (23) includes a first snap-fit ​​post (231), which passes through the sealing part (221) to fix the second bracket (23) to the sealing part (221).

4. The water flow regulating valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second bracket (23) further includes at least one second snap-fit ​​post (232), which passes through the sealing part (221) to restrict relative rotation between the second bracket (23) and the sealing part (221).

5. The water flow regulating valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first snap-fit ​​post (231) has a first connecting hole (234) that passes through the second bracket (23) along the axial direction.

6. The water flow regulating valve according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second bracket (23) is also provided with a second connecting hole (235). The first connecting hole (234) includes a first large diameter segment (2341) and a first small diameter segment (2342) that are connected. The second connecting hole (235) includes a second large diameter segment (2351) and a second small diameter segment (2352) that are connected. The arrangement direction of the first large diameter segment (2341) and the first small diameter segment (2342) is opposite to the arrangement direction of the second large diameter segment (2351) and the second small diameter segment (2352).

7. The water flow regulating valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second bracket (23) has a protruding abutment (236) on the side facing the solenoid valve (21), and the diameter of the abutment (236) gradually decreases in the direction away from the second bracket (23). The valve core (211) drives the second bracket (23) to move through the abutment (236).

8. The water flow regulating valve according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sealing ring (222) has a fixing groove (224) on the side facing the solenoid valve (21). The solenoid valve (21) also includes a sleeve (31). The valve core (211) is movably disposed in the sleeve (31). One end of the sleeve (31) is disposed in the fixing groove (224) and is sealed and connected to the sealing ring (222).

9. The water flow regulating valve according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The water flow regulating valve also includes a filter element (16), the first water passage hole (131) is disposed on the side wall of the connecting pipe (13), the second water passage hole (132) is disposed at the end of the connecting pipe (13) away from the outlet (12), and the filter element (16) is disposed inside the connecting pipe (13) and can filter the water flowing through the first water passage hole (131).

10. A water heater, characterized in that, The water flow regulating valve includes any one of claims 1 to 9.

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