Electric water heater

Abstract

The utility model discloses an electric water heater relates to the technical field of water heater. Electric water heater includes water tank, heat exchanger, heater and drive part, and water tank is equipped with water inlet and water outlet, heat exchanger is outside water tank, and heat exchanger has first flow channel and second flow channel that present heat exchange connection, and the first inlet and the first outlet of first flow channel are communicated with water inlet and water outlet to form circulating loop with water tank, and the second inlet of second flow channel is used to be connected with cold water inlet pipe, and the second outlet of second flow channel is used to be communicated with hot water outlet pipe, heater is outside water tank, and is used for heating the water in circulating loop, drive part is arranged at the upstream side of heater, to drive the circulating flow of water in circulating loop. The utility model technical scheme can use the live water while improving the thermal efficiency, and can improve the assembly efficiency and prolong the service life of drive part.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of water heater technology, and in particular to an electric water heater. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional storage-type water heaters typically heat the water in the inner tank with a heater and then supply it directly to the user. This method has problems such as the large volume of the inner tank, which takes up a lot of space, and the ease with which bacteria can grow.

[0003] In contrast, heat exchange electric water heaters in related technologies often use heat exchange tubes arranged in the inner tank, which results in problems such as long heat exchange tube length and low thermal efficiency. Utility Model Content

[0004] The main purpose of this invention is to propose an electric water heater that improves thermal efficiency while using running water.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the electric water heater proposed in this utility model includes: The water tank is equipped with an inlet and an outlet. A heat exchanger is externally placed in the water tank. The heat exchanger has a first flow channel and a second flow channel connected in a heat exchange manner. The first inlet and the first outlet of the first flow channel are respectively connected to the water inlet and the water outlet to form a circulation loop with the water tank. The second inlet of the second flow channel is used to connect to the cold water inlet pipe, and the second outlet of the second flow channel is used to connect to the hot water outlet pipe. A heater, externally located in the water tank, is used to heat the water in the circulation loop; and A drive component, located upstream of the heater, is used to drive the water circulation flow in the circulation loop.

[0006] In one embodiment of this application, the heater is located between the first inlet and the outlet, and the drive component is located between the outlet and the heater.

[0007] In one embodiment of this application, the electric water heater further includes a water supply pipeline assembly, the inlet end of which is connected to the cold water inlet pipe, and the outlet end of which is located between the water outlet and the inlet of the drive component.

[0008] In one embodiment of this application, the electric water heater further includes a three-way pipe assembly, the outlet end of the water supply pipe assembly is connected between the water outlet and the drive component through the three-way pipe assembly, wherein the outlet end of the three-way pipe assembly connected to the drive component is provided with a filter screen.

[0009] In one embodiment of this application, the water supply pipeline assembly includes: A water supply pipe connects the cold water inlet pipe to the circulation loop; A solenoid valve, located on the water supply pipe, is used to control the on / off state of the water supply pipe; and A one-way valve is provided on the water supply pipe and located downstream of the solenoid valve to unidirectionally guide the flow path of the cold water inlet pipe to the circulation loop.

[0010] In one embodiment of this application, the electric water heater further includes a thermostatic valve, the cold water inlet of which is connected to the cold water inlet pipe, the hot water inlet of which is connected to the second outlet, and the outlet of which is connected to the hot water outlet pipe.

[0011] In one embodiment of this application, the side wall of the water tank is provided with a receiving space recessed toward the inner cavity of the water tank, and at least one of the heat exchanger, the heater and the driving component is disposed in the receiving space; Both the inlet and the outlet are located on the side wall of the water tank where the accommodating space is located.

[0012] In one embodiment of this application, the water inlet is located in the upper region of the water tank, and the water outlet is located in the lower region of the water tank corresponding to the accommodating space. In the vertical direction, the heat exchanger, the drive component, and the heater are located between the inlet and the outlet.

[0013] In one embodiment of this application, the heat exchanger is located below the water inlet and extends along the height direction, and the first inlet and the first outlet are located on the side of the heat exchanger away from the water tank. The heater is located above the water outlet and extends along the height direction, with both the inlet and outlet of the heater located at the top of the heater; In the thickness direction of the water tank, the drive component is located between the heat exchanger and the heater, and the inlet and outlet of the drive component are located on the lower and upper sides of the drive component, respectively.

[0014] In one embodiment of this application, the cold water inlet pipe and the hot water outlet pipe are located on the lower side of the accommodating space and both extend along the thickness direction of the water tank.

[0015] In this utility model's electric water heater, a heat exchanger with a first and second flow channel connected in a heat exchange manner is installed outside the water tank. The first flow channel is connected to the water tank to form a circulation loop. A heater heats the water in the circulation loop, and a driving component drives the water in the circulation loop to circulate. This allows the hot water in the circulation loop to heat the cold water flowing in the second flow channel of the heat exchanger as it flows through the first flow channel, thus achieving the function of heating fresh water for use. Furthermore, in this embodiment, both the heat exchanger and the heater are located outside the water tank, which reduces installation difficulty and improves assembly efficiency. Simultaneously, the driving component is located upstream of the heater, which avoids the impact of air bubbles generated when the heater heats the water and the thermal damage caused by high-temperature hot water, thereby extending the service life. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the water circuit principle of an embodiment of the electric water heater of this utility model; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the water circuit principle of the electric water heater of this utility model in the water use mode; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the water circuit principle in the water replenishment mode of the electric water heater of this utility model; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the water circuit principle in the water usage mode of another embodiment of the electric water heater of this utility model; Figure 5 for Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the water circuit principle in the water replenishment mode of the embodiment; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electric water heater of this utility model; Figure 7 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the embodiment from the perspective of the water tank thickness direction; Figure 8 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the embodiment from the perspective of the width of the water tank.

[0018] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0019] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this utility model will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0021] It should be noted that if the embodiments of this utility model involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.

[0022] Meanwhile, the meaning of "and / or" or "and / or" appearing throughout the text is that it includes three options. Taking "A and / or B" as an example, it includes option A, option B, or an option that satisfies both A and B.

[0023] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this utility model involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, features defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. If the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model.

[0024] Traditional storage-type water heaters typically heat the water in the inner tank and supply it directly to the user. However, this method suffers from problems such as the large size of the inner tank, which takes up a lot of space, and the potential for bacterial growth. To address these issues, related technologies employ heat exchanger-type electric water heaters with heat exchange tubes arranged inside the inner tank to achieve running water heating. This prevents the water pipes from directly contacting the water stored in the inner tank, improving water quality. However, installing and fixing heat exchange tubes inside the inner tank is difficult, and the water in the inner tank is usually stationary, with heat exchange between the water and the heater and heat exchange tubes relying on natural convection, resulting in low heat exchange efficiency.

[0025] This utility model proposes an electric water heater that aims to simplify assembly and improve heat exchange efficiency while providing hot water heating.

[0026] In the embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the electric water heater includes a water tank 1, a heat exchanger 3, a heater 2, and a drive component 4.

[0027] Water tank 1 is provided with inlet 102 and outlet 103; heat exchanger 3 is externally placed in water tank 1, and heat exchanger 3 has a first flow channel 31 and a second flow channel 32 connected in heat exchange. The first inlet 301 and the first outlet 302 of the first flow channel 31 are respectively connected to inlet 102 and outlet 103 to form a circulation loop with water tank 1. The second inlet 303 of the second flow channel 32 is used to connect to cold water inlet pipe 81, and the second outlet 304 of the second flow channel 32 is used to connect to hot water outlet pipe 82; heater 2 is externally placed in water tank 1 and is used to heat the water in the circulation loop; drive component 4 is located on the upstream side of heater 2 and is used to drive the water in the circulation loop to circulate.

[0028] In this embodiment, a water tank 1 is provided with a water storage chamber 101. The water inlet 102 and the water outlet 103 of the water tank 1 are connected to the water storage chamber 101. A heat exchanger 3 is provided outside the water tank 1. The heat exchanger 3 has a first flow channel 31 and a second flow channel 32 connected in a heat exchange manner. The first inlet 301 of the first flow channel 31 is connected to the water outlet 103, and the first outlet 302 of the first flow channel 31 is connected to the water inlet 102, so that the first flow channel 31 and the water storage chamber 101 form a circulation loop. The water in the circulation loop is heated by the heater 2, and the water in the circulation loop is driven to flow by the driving component 4, so as to realize the function of water circulation in the water tank 1. The second inlet 303 of the second flow channel 32 is used to connect the cold water inlet pipe 81, and the second outlet 304 is used to connect the hot water outlet pipe 82. Thus, the cold water flowing through the second flow channel 32 of the heat exchanger 3 can absorb the heat of the hot water in the first flow channel 31 and become hot water. Then, it flows out from the hot water outlet pipe 82 to the water terminal for user use, thereby realizing the function of heating and using live water. Compared with directly using the water that has been heated multiple times in the water storage chamber 101, the water quality is effectively improved.

[0029] Understandably, heat exchanger 3 is located outside water tank 1, making its installation position and fixing method more flexible and simple, which simplifies the installation and fixing difficulty of heat exchanger 3 and improves assembly efficiency. Heat exchanger 3 can be a plate heat exchanger 3, a shell-and-tube heat exchanger 3, or some other type of heat exchanger 3, etc.

[0030] The heater 2 is externally mounted on the water tank 1. Compared to embedding the heater 2 inside the water tank 1, this method is easier to install and allows for a more complete structure of the water tank 1. It also eliminates the need for a mounting port for the heater 2, simplifying the structure of the water tank 1 and making its molding process simpler. Optionally, the heater 2 is a cast aluminum heater 2, with an internal heating channel connected to the circulation loop.

[0031] The drive component 4 is located upstream of the heater 2. Compared to its downstream location, this arrangement avoids the impact of air bubbles generated during water heating and prevents damage to the drive component 4 from high-temperature hot water, thus extending its service life. The specific installation location of the drive component 4 can be determined based on actual conditions. For example, it can be installed on the pipe outside the water tank 1 in the circulation loop, or at the inlet 102 or outlet 103 of the water tank 1. Optionally, the drive component 4 can be a standard water pump or a variable frequency water pump.

[0032] In summary, the electric water heater of this utility model employs a heat exchanger 3 with a first flow channel 31 and a second flow channel 32 connected in a heat exchange manner outside the water tank 1. The first flow channel 31 is connected to the water tank 1 to form a circulation loop. The water in the circulation loop is heated by the heater 2, and the driving component 4 drives the water in the circulation loop to circulate. This allows the hot water in the circulation loop to heat the cold water flowing in the second flow channel 32 of the heat exchanger 3 when it flows through the first flow channel 31, thus achieving the function of heating fresh water for use. Furthermore, in this embodiment, both the heat exchanger 3 and the heater 2 are located outside the water tank 1, which reduces installation difficulty and improves assembly efficiency. At the same time, the driving component 4 is located upstream of the heater 2, which can avoid the impact of air bubbles generated when the heater 2 heats the water and the thermal damage caused by high-temperature hot water, thereby extending the service life.

[0033] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 as well as Figure 4 In one embodiment of this application, the heater 2 is located between the first inlet 301 and the outlet 103, and the drive component 4 is located between the outlet 103 and the heater 2.

[0034] In this embodiment, by placing the heater 2 between the outlet 103 and the first inlet 301, the water is heated to hot water before entering the first flow channel 31 of the heat exchanger 3, thereby ensuring the function of the first flow channel 31 in heating the cold water in the second flow channel 32 and improving heat exchange efficiency. By placing the drive component 4 between the outlet 103 and the heater 2, the water flows through the drive component 4 before entering the heater 2, effectively avoiding bubble impact and high-temperature thermal damage generated when the heater 2 heats the water, further ensuring the reliability of the drive component 4 and extending its service life.

[0035] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 3 as well as Figure 5 In one embodiment of this application, the electric water heater further includes a water supply pipe assembly 5, the inlet end of which is connected to the cold water inlet pipe 81, and the outlet end of which is connected to the circulation loop.

[0036] After the water heater has been operating normally for a period of time, the water level in tank 1 may be low, resulting in insufficient water in the circulation loop and affecting heat exchange efficiency. Therefore, this embodiment incorporates a water replenishment pipe assembly 5 connecting the cold water inlet pipe 81 to the circulation loop. In replenishment mode, water from the cold water inlet pipe 81 flows through the water replenishment pipe assembly 5 into the circulation loop and then back into tank 1, thus replenishing the water in tank 1. It should be noted that the water replenishment pipe assembly 5 is normally closed during normal water use to prevent cross-flow between the circulation loop and the water supply circuit. The water replenishment pipe assembly 5 only opens to replenish water when the water heater's operating mode is turned off, i.e., when the water supply terminal is closed, and when water needs to be replenished in tank 1.

[0037] Specifically, the outlet end of the water supply pipeline assembly 5 is located between the water outlet 103 and the inlet of the drive component 4.

[0038] Understandably, in water usage mode, the drive component 4 drives the water circulation in the loop. In water replenishment mode, the water replenishment pipeline assembly 5 replenishes water into the water storage chamber 101. Depending on the connection position of the outlet end of the water replenishment pipeline assembly 5, the operating state of the drive component 4 is different. When the outlet end of the water replenishment pipeline assembly 5 is connected to the inlet 102, the drive component 4 is in a stopped state in water replenishment mode. After the drive component 4 stops operating for a period of time, a cavity may appear at its inlet end. When it is turned on again, it may run dry. Based on this, this embodiment sets the outlet end of the water replenishment pipeline assembly 5 between the outlet 103 and the inlet of the drive component 4, so that water flow can be guaranteed at the inlet of the drive component 4 in both water usage mode and water replenishment mode, thereby preventing the drive component 4 from running dry.

[0039] Furthermore, the electric water heater also includes a three-way pipe assembly 6, and the outlet end of the water supply pipe assembly 5 is connected between the water outlet 103 and the drive component 4 through the three-way pipe assembly 6. The outlet end of the three-way pipe assembly 6 connected to the drive component 4 is provided with a filter screen 61.

[0040] In this embodiment, a three-way pipe assembly 6 is used to connect the water supply pipe assembly 5 into the circulation loop. The two inlets of the three-way pipe assembly 6 are connected to the outlet 103 and the outlet of the water supply pipe assembly 5, respectively. The outlet of the three-way pipe assembly 6 is connected to the inlet of the drive component 4. In practical applications, a valve structure can be installed at the three-way pipe assembly 6 so that the outlet 103 of the water tank 1 is connected to the drive component 4 in the water usage mode, and the outlet of the water supply pipe assembly 5 is connected to the drive component 4 in the water supply mode.

[0041] The outlet end of the three-way pipe assembly 6, which is connected to the drive component 4, is equipped with a filter screen 61, which can effectively filter particulate impurities and other foreign objects, preventing foreign objects from entering the drive component 4 and causing damage to it.

[0042] Please see Figures 1 to 3 In one embodiment of this application, the water supply pipeline assembly 5 includes a water supply pipe 51, a solenoid valve 52, and a one-way valve 53. The water supply pipe 51 connects the cold water inlet pipe 81 and the circulation loop. The solenoid valve 52 is located on the water supply pipe 51 to control the opening and closing of the water supply pipe 51. The one-way valve 53 is located on the water supply pipe 51 and downstream of the solenoid valve 52 to unidirectionally guide the flow path from the cold water inlet pipe 81 to the circulation loop.

[0043] Through the combined action of solenoid valve 52 and check valve 53, water can be smoothly replenished into water tank 1, while preventing water in the circulation loop from flowing into the cold water inlet pipe 81 or the second flow channel 32. Specifically, the inlet end of the water replenishment pipe 51 is connected to the cold water inlet pipe 81, essentially serving as a bypass branch for the cold water inlet pipe 81. Both solenoid valve 52 and check valve 53 are located on the water replenishment pipe 51, with check valve 53 downstream of solenoid valve 52. Solenoid valve 52 controls the flow of water through the water replenishment pipe 51, while check valve 53, when solenoid valve 52 is open, unidirectionally guides the water flow from the cold water inlet pipe 81 to the circulation loop, preventing cross-contamination. Optionally, solenoid valve 52 can be a normally closed solenoid valve, closed during normal water use and open when water tank 1 needs replenishment. This design provides better protection against cross-contamination compared to a water replenishment valve controlled by a single control valve.

[0044] Please see Figures 1 to 5 In one embodiment of this application, the electric water heater further includes a thermostatic valve 7, the cold water inlet of the thermostatic valve 7 is connected to the cold water inlet pipe 81, the hot water inlet of the thermostatic valve 7 is connected to the second outlet 304, and the water outlet of the thermostatic valve 7 is connected to the hot water outlet pipe 82.

[0045] This design allows the hot water flowing out of the heat exchanger 3 to enter the thermostatic valve 7 and mix with the cold water inlet to obtain constant-temperature hot water, which then flows from the hot water outlet pipe 82 to the water terminal for user use, thus improving the user experience.

[0046] Specifically, the cold water inlet pipe 81 is equipped with a first temperature sensor 91 and a first flow sensor 92 for detecting the cold water inlet temperature and flow rate; a second temperature sensor 93 is provided between the hot water inlet and the second outlet 304 of the thermostatic valve 7 for detecting the hot water inlet temperature entering the thermostatic valve 7; a third temperature sensor 95 is provided on the outlet side of the thermostatic valve 7 for detecting the hot water outlet temperature; a fourth temperature sensor 96 and a second flow sensor 94 are provided in the circulation loop between the first inlet 301 and the heater 2 for detecting the inlet water temperature and flow rate entering the first flow channel 31 in the circulation loop.

[0047] In practical applications, the method of constant temperature regulation for hot water output can be determined according to the actual situation.

[0048] In one embodiment, the thermostatic valve 7 is an electronic thermostatic valve 7. With this design, the electronic thermostatic valve 7 can automatically adjust the outlet water temperature required by the user based on the cold water inlet temperature and flow rate, the hot water inlet temperature and the hot water outlet temperature through a stepper motor.

[0049] In one embodiment, the thermostatic valve 7 is a mechanical thermostatic valve 7. This design allows the mechanical thermostatic valve 7 to adjust the outlet water temperature according to the temperature difference between cold and hot water. Specifically, the drive component 4 is a variable frequency water pump. The temperature of the inlet or outlet water at the heat exchanger 3 is detected by the first temperature sensor 91 and the second temperature sensor 93, and the detected temperature signal is transmitted to the electric water heater's control system. The control system controls the speed of the variable frequency water pump according to the detected temperature to adjust the flow rate in the circulation loop, thereby controlling the outlet water temperature of the heat exchanger 3 in the second flow channel 32. The water is then mixed by the mechanical thermostatic valve 7 before being discharged.

[0050] Optionally, a flow-limiting ring 97 can be installed between the cold water inlet pipe 81 and the second inlet 303 of the second flow channel 32 of the heat exchanger 3 to control the inlet water velocity or flow rate, stabilize system pressure, and prevent equipment overload or damage.

[0051] Please see Figures 1 to 3 In one embodiment of this application, the water tank 1 is provided with an inlet assembly 11 and an outlet assembly 12. The inlet assembly 11 is installed at the inlet 102, and the outlet assembly 12 is installed at the outlet 103. The inlet assembly 11 is located in the upper region of the water tank 1, and the outlet assembly 12 is located in the lower region of the water tank 1. The heat exchanger 3 is located on the side of the water tank 1, the first inlet 301 is located below the heat exchanger 3, and the first outlet 302 is located above the heat exchanger 3.

[0052] With this configuration, the water flowing into the inlet assembly 11 can force the water in the lower region of the water tank 1 through the outlet assembly 12 into the circulation loop to be heated by the heater 2. This forces convection between the water in the water tank 1 and the water in the circulation loop, improving the heating efficiency of the circulating water circuit and thus enhancing heat exchange efficiency and accelerating hot water preparation. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the outlet assembly 12 is located in the lower region of the water tank 1, and the first inlet 301 is located at the lower part of the heat exchanger 3, effectively shortening the length of the connecting pipe between the outlet assembly 12 and the first inlet 301, thus saving layout space. Correspondingly, the inlet assembly 11 is located in the upper region of the water tank 1, and the first outlet 302 is located at the upper part of the heat exchanger 3, effectively shortening the length of the connecting pipe between the inlet assembly 11 and the first outlet 302, thus saving layout space.

[0053] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 4 In one embodiment of this application, the water tank 1 is an open tank, the top of the inner cavity of the water tank 1 is provided with a cavity, and the water tank 1 is also provided with an overflow vent pipe 83 communicating with the cavity.

[0054] In this embodiment, the water tank 1 is a non-pressurized water tank. By setting a cavity at the top of the water storage chamber 101, the water tank 1 connects the cavity to the outside through an overflow vent pipe 83. This provides sufficient space for the water inside the water storage chamber 101 to expand due to heating, so that the water tank 1 does not bear the expansion pressure of the water inside the water storage chamber 101, which can effectively improve its service life. Furthermore, based on this, the shape of the water tank 1 can be determined according to actual conditions, such as being rectangular, square, or other shapes, and is not limited to the traditional cylindrical shape. Optionally, the overflow vent pipe 83 is installed on the bottom wall of the water tank 1, with its inlet end extending upwards to the cavity and its outlet end extending out of the bottom wall of the water tank 1 to connect to the outside.

[0055] Please see Figure 1 , Figures 6 to 8 In one embodiment of this application, the side wall of the water tank 1 is provided with a receiving space 1a recessed toward the inner cavity of the water tank 1, and at least one of the heat exchanger 3, heater 2 and drive component 4 is provided in the receiving space 1a; the inlet 102 and the outlet 103 are both provided on the side wall of the water tank 1 where the receiving space 1a is provided.

[0056] For ease of explanation of location and direction, the example is a water heater mounted on a wall surface (e.g., a wall). The height of water tank 1 is the direction extending upward along the wall surface, the width of water tank 1 is the left-right direction when facing the wall surface, and the thickness of water tank 1 is the normal direction (front-back direction) of the wall surface.

[0057] By placing at least one of the heat exchanger 3, heater 2, and drive component 4 in the accommodating space 1a of the water tank 1, compared to the method of separately installing the heat exchanger 3, heater 2, and drive component 4 outside the water tank 1, this embodiment can make full use of the space on the side of the water tank 1, making the layout of each component of the electric water heater more compact, reducing the overall size of the electric water heater, and realizing the miniaturization of the electric water heater.

[0058] In practical applications, the heat exchanger 3, the heater 2, or the drive component 4 may be installed in the accommodating space 1a of the water tank 1. Alternatively, the heat exchanger 3 and the heater 2 may be installed in the accommodating space 1a of the water tank 1. Alternatively, the heat exchanger 3 and the drive component 4 may be installed in the accommodating space 1a of the water tank 1. Alternatively, the drive component 4 and the heater 2 may be installed in the accommodating space 1a of the water tank 1. Alternatively, the heat exchanger 3, the heater 2, and the drive component 4 may all be installed in the accommodating space 1a of the water tank 1.

[0059] Both the inlet 102 and the outlet 103 are located on the side wall of the accommodating space 1a in the water tank 1, that is, the inlet 102 and the outlet 103 are located on the same side, so that the pipes connected to the inlet 102 and the outlet 103 are all located on the same side of the water tank 1. At the same time, the heat exchanger 3, the drive component 4 and the heater 2 are also located on the same side of the water tank 1. As a result, the connection pipe path can be shortened, the pipe structure can be simplified, and the overall structural layout can be further improved.

[0060] Please see Figures 6 to 8 In one embodiment of this application, the inlet 102 is located in the upper region of the water tank 1, and the outlet 103 is located in the lower region of the corresponding accommodating space 1a of the water tank 1; in the height direction, the heat exchanger 3, the drive component 4, and the heater 2 are located between the inlet 102 and the outlet 103.

[0061] By placing the inlet 102 in the upper region of the water tank 1 and the outlet 103 in the lower region of the corresponding accommodating space 1a of the water tank 1, the water flowing in from the inlet 102 can force the cold water in the lower region of the water tank 1 to be squeezed out from the outlet 103 into the circulation loop and heated by the heater 2. This forces the water in the water tank 1 to convect with the water in the circulation loop, improving the heating efficiency of the circulation water circuit, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency and accelerating the preparation of hot water.

[0062] In the vertical direction, the heat exchanger 3, the drive component 4, and the heater 2 are positioned between the inlet 102 and the outlet 103, so that most of the connecting pipes in the electric water heater are located in the accommodating space 1a, thereby shortening the pipe path, further improving the compactness of the water circuit layout, and effectively reducing the size of the electric water heater in the vertical direction.

[0063] Furthermore, the inlet 102 and the outlet 103 are respectively located at diagonal positions on the side wall of the water tank 1.

[0064] Understandably, in the circulation loop, the inlet 102 of the water tank 1 is connected to the first outlet 302 of the heat exchanger 3, and the outlet 103 of the water tank 1 is connected to the drive component 4 or the heater 2. That is, the inlet 102 and the outlet 103 of the water tank 1 are connected to different components respectively. In this embodiment, by setting the inlet 102 and the outlet 103 at diagonal positions on the side wall of the water tank 1 respectively, there is enough space near the inlet 102 and the outlet 103 to install the corresponding components. This allows the heat exchanger 3 connected to the inlet 102 to be set closer to the inlet 102, and the drive component 4 or the heater 2 connected to the outlet 103 to be set closer to the outlet 103. In this way, the connection pipe path between the inlet 102 and the heat exchanger 3 and the connection pipe path between the outlet 103 and the drive component 4 or the heater 2 can be shortened, simplifying the pipe layout and improving compactness.

[0065] Please see Figures 6 to 8 In one embodiment of this application, the heat exchanger 3 is located below the water inlet 102 and extends along the height direction. The first inlet 301 and the first outlet 302 are located on the side of the heat exchanger 3 away from the water tank 1. The heater 2 is located above the water outlet 103 and extends along the height direction. The inlet and outlet of the heater 2 are both located at the top of the heater 2. In the thickness direction of the water tank 1, the drive component 4 is located between the heat exchanger 3 and the heater 2. The inlet and outlet of the drive component 4 are located on the lower and upper sides of the drive component 4, respectively.

[0066] This embodiment illustrates the positional layout of the heater 2, heat exchanger 3, and drive component 4. The heat exchanger 3, drive component 4, and heater 2 are arranged sequentially along the thickness direction of the water tank 1, so that each component can make full use of the space 1a of the water tank 1, avoid stacking of each component in the width direction of the water tank 1, and reduce the lateral size of the electric water heater.

[0067] The heat exchanger 3 is positioned below the inlet 102 and extends along its height. This design fully utilizes the height of the accommodating space 1a and shortens the pipe connection distance between the first outlet 302 and the inlet 102, further enhancing the compactness. By placing the first inlet 301 and the first outlet 302 on the side of the heat exchanger 3 away from the water tank 1, the inlet and outlet of the first flow channel 31 are exposed for easy pipe connection. Furthermore, this design ensures that the inlet and outlet of the first flow channel 31 and the inlet 102 of the water tank 1 face the same side. This allows the pipe connecting the first outlet 302 and the inlet 102 of the water tank 1 to run along the same side wall of the water tank 1, resulting in a more organized pipe layout that fully utilizes the height of the side of the water tank 1 and creates a more compact structural layout.

[0068] The heater 2 is located above the outlet 103 and extends along the height direction, making full use of the height space of the accommodating space 1a. Positioning the inlet and outlet of the heater 2 at the top of the heater 2 avoids interference between the connecting pipes at the inlet and outlet and the connecting pipes at the outlet 103 below the heater 2, ensuring smooth connections between the drive component 4, the outlet 103, and the heater 2, while also effectively improving the space utilization of the accommodating space 1a. Optionally, when the electric water heater is installed, the back of the heater 2 does not extend beyond the back of the water tank 1, thereby ensuring the stability of the electric water heater installation on the mounting wall.

[0069] The inlet and outlet of the drive component 4 are located on the lower and upper sides of the drive component 4, respectively. This design makes the inlet of the drive component 4 closer to the outlet 103 of the water tank 1, which can shorten the distance of the connecting pipe between the inlet of the drive component 4 and the outlet 103 of the water tank 1. At the same time, it makes the outlet of the drive component 4 closer to the inlet of the heater 2, which can shorten the distance of the connecting pipe between the outlet of the drive component 4 and the inlet of the heater 2. In this way, pipe interference at the inlet and outlet of the drive component 4 can be avoided, and the pipe layout at the drive component 4 can be simplified.

[0070] In summary, this embodiment, through the reasonable arrangement of heat exchanger 3, drive component 4 and heater 2 within the accommodating space 1a, can not only simplify the pipe layout of each connecting pipe, but also make full use of the accommodating space 1a, improve the compactness of the layout between each structure, and effectively improve the overall miniaturization of the electric water heater.

[0071] Please see Figures 6 to 8 In one embodiment of this application, the cold water inlet pipe 81 and the hot water outlet pipe 82 are located on the lower side of the accommodating space 1a and both extend along the thickness direction of the water tank 1.

[0072] This design makes full use of the side space of the water tank 1, while placing the cold water inlet pipe 81 and the hot water outlet pipe 82 on the lower side of the accommodating space 1a, which makes it easier to connect and install with the cold water pipe and the hot water pipe.

[0073] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model and does not limit the patent scope of the present utility model. All equivalent structural transformations made under the inventive concept of the present utility model using the contents of the present utility model specification and drawings, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. An electric water heater, characterized in that, include: The water tank is equipped with an inlet and an outlet. A heat exchanger is externally placed in the water tank. The heat exchanger has a first flow channel and a second flow channel connected in a heat exchange manner. The first inlet and the first outlet of the first flow channel are respectively connected to the water inlet and the water outlet to form a circulation loop with the water tank. The second inlet of the second flow channel is used to connect to the cold water inlet pipe, and the second outlet of the second flow channel is used to connect to the hot water outlet pipe. A heater, externally located in the water tank, is used to heat the water in the circulation loop; as well as A drive component, located upstream of the heater, is used to drive the water circulation flow in the circulation loop.

2. The electric water heater as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The heater is located between the first inlet and the outlet, and the drive component is located between the outlet and the heater.

3. The electric water heater as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The electric water heater also includes a water supply pipe assembly, the inlet end of which is connected to the cold water inlet pipe, and the outlet end of which is located between the water outlet and the inlet of the drive component.

4. The electric water heater as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The electric water heater also includes a three-way pipe assembly. The outlet end of the water supply pipe assembly is connected between the water outlet and the drive component through the three-way pipe assembly. The outlet end of the three-way pipe assembly connected to the drive component is provided with a filter screen.

5. The electric water heater as described in claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The water supply pipeline assembly includes: A water supply pipe connects the cold water inlet pipe to the circulation loop; A solenoid valve, located on the water supply pipe, is used to control the on / off state of the water supply pipe; and A one-way valve is provided on the water supply pipe and located downstream of the solenoid valve to unidirectionally guide the flow path of the cold water inlet pipe to the circulation loop.

6. The electric water heater as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The electric water heater also includes a thermostatic valve, the cold water inlet of which is connected to the cold water inlet pipe, the hot water inlet of which is connected to the second outlet, and the outlet of which is connected to the hot water outlet pipe.

7. The electric water heater as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The side wall of the water tank is provided with a recessed accommodating space facing the inner cavity of the water tank, and at least one of the heat exchanger, the heater and the driving component is disposed in the accommodating space; Both the inlet and the outlet are located on the side wall of the water tank where the accommodating space is located.

8. The electric water heater as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The water inlet is located in the upper region of the water tank, and the water outlet is located in the lower region of the water tank corresponding to the accommodating space. In the vertical direction, the heat exchanger, the drive component, and the heater are located between the inlet and the outlet.

9. The electric water heater as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The heat exchanger is located below the water inlet and extends along the height direction, with the first inlet and the first outlet located on the side of the heat exchanger away from the water tank. The heater is located above the water outlet and extends along the height direction, with both the inlet and outlet of the heater located at the top of the heater; In the thickness direction of the water tank, the drive component is located between the heat exchanger and the heater, and the inlet and outlet of the drive component are located on the lower and upper sides of the drive component, respectively.

10. The electric water heater as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The cold water inlet pipe and the hot water outlet pipe are located on the lower side of the accommodating space and both extend along the thickness direction of the water tank.

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