Instantaneous water heater

Abstract

The present invention relates to an instantaneous water heater corresponding to a water heater for sequentially heating water directly and indirectly to provide hot water while instantaneously heating the water to a required temperature, wherein the instantaneous water heater minimizes heat loss while enabling instantaneous hot water generation by increasing a heat exchange area. The present invention comprises: a body having a water introduction pipe through which raw water is introduced and a water discharge pipe through which hot water is discharged; a coil pipe connected to the water introduction pipe to allow the raw water to be introduced therethrough and having a lower pipeline for discharging the raw water introduced in the body; a heater for indirectly heating the water introduced in the coil pipe primarily and directly heating the water discharged from the body secondarily to generate hot water; and a steam module in which when the hot water is discharged, the steam of the hot water generated by the heater is introduced to discharge the hot water through the water discharge pipe while filling the steam pressure therein, and when the hot water is not discharged, the steam pressure is lowered.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to an instantaneous water heater which is configured to instantaneously heat raw water in a primary indirect and secondary direct manner in a ceramic heater structure, thereby rapidly heating the water to a required temperature and smoothly providing hot water regardless of the amount of hot water discharged or the temperature of raw water introduced, while minimizing heat loss from the water heater, the instantaneous water heater being provided with an integrated steam pressure module required for direct water pressure.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] In general, a water heater is a device that heats raw water supplied from a public water supply or stored in a water tank to generate and provide hot water. A representative example thereof is a boiler, and recently there are small water heaters that are directly connected to faucets in a building to provide hot water.

[0003] These water heaters use electricity as an energy source to heat the raw water. An electric water heater is generally provided with a heater which directly or indirectly contacts the raw water for the purpose of heating the water.

[0004] For example, referring to Korean Patent Application Publication No. 10-2015-0046539, there is disclosed a sterilized water dispenser for infant formula, comprising: a water tank provided with a raw water inlet and a hot water outlet; a ceramic heater installed inside the water tank; a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the hot water contained in the water tank; and a control unit for controlling the temperature of the ceramic heater based on the measured value of the temperature sensor.

[0005] However, conventional hot water storage-type water heaters necessarily comprise a tank for storing water and a heater for transferring heat energy into the tank to heat the water stored in the tank. Therefore, due to the nature of hot water storage-type water heaters, it takes a considerable amount of time to heat the water contained in a larger volume than the contact area of the heater, and continuous heat energy is wasted to maintain the temperature of the water due to heat loss from the tank, resulting in significantly decreased thermal efficiency. Moreover, the temperature at which hot water is discharged is inconsistent with the amount of hot water discharged or the temperature of raw water introduced, which is also problematic.

[0006] Furthermore, according to the prior art, since the raw water introduced into the tank has a relatively low temperature and a high flow rate, it collides with hot water filled and heated in the tank, causing disturbance, which is also problematic.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTIONTechnical Problem

[0007] Accordingly, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described conventional problems, and an object of the present invention is to an instantaneous water heater which is configured to instantaneously heat the raw water in a primary indirect and secondary direct manner in a ceramic heater structure, thereby rapidly heating the water to a required temperature and smoothly providing hot water regardless of the amount of hot water discharged or the temperature of raw water introduced, the instantaneous water heater providing a direct water pressure structure which uses a steam pressure module that allows the hot water to be discharged through a water outlet pipe as the steam of hot water is filled therein to increase the steam pressure and the steam is blocked, while reducing heat loss from the hot water tank.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide an instantaneous water heater which is configured to allow raw water passing through a coil-shaped pipe to be discharged through one or more discharge holes formed in a circumferential direction in a lower pipe, such that the discharged raw water undergoes fine swirling motion, forming a fluid flow pattern where the raw water moves upward along a coil pipe and its wall, thereby allowing the raw water to be sufficiently heated while maintaining a constant flow rate of the raw water within the heater. Moreover, the flow rate in the non-circular direction of the coil pipe is higher than that within the heater, allowing the consistently heated hot water to be introduced and discharged through the water outlet pipe. Therefore, it is possible to minimize heat loss when heating the water, thereby preventing disturbance through its structure.Technical Solution

[0009] To achieve the above-described objects, the present invention provides an instantaneous water heater comprising:

[0010] a main body including a water inlet pipe through which raw water is introduced and a water outlet pipe through which hot water is discharged;

[0011] a coil pipe connected to the water inlet pipe to allow the raw water to be introduced and including a lower pipe that allows the raw water introduced into the main body to be discharged;

[0012] a heater that first indirectly heats the water introduced into the coil pipe and then directly heats the water discharged into the main body to generate hot water; and

[0013] a steam module that allows the hot water to be discharged through the water outlet pipe as the steam of the hot water generated through the heater is introduced to increase the steam pressure, and allows the steam pressure to decrease when the hot water is not being discharged.

[0014] Moreover, the present invention provides an instantaneous water heater, wherein the coil pipe further comprises a lower pipe that allows the raw water to be discharged into the main body using one or more discharge holes formed in a circumferential direction, forming a fluid flow pattern of the raw water flowing into the main body.

[0015] Furthermore, the present invention provides an instantaneous water heater, wherein the main body further comprises a sensor member in which a temperature-measuring side and a water presence-measuring side are integrally formed.Advantageous Effects of Invention

[0016] According to the present invention as described above, it is possible to rapidly heat the water to a required temperature and smoothly provide hot water regardless of the amount of hot water discharged or the temperature of raw water introduced, while providing a direct water pressure structure which uses a steam pressure module and minimizing heat loss from the hot water tank, leading to improved energy efficiency of heat energy.

[0017] Moreover, the fluid flow pattern is formed where the raw water introduced into the main body moves upward along the coil pipe and its wall, ensuring consistent heating within the ceramic heater, reducing heat loss in the non-circular direction of the coil pipe, and preventing disturbance.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0018] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an instantaneous water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view and enlarged views of main portions illustrating the instantaneous water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 3 illustrate a lower pipe of the instantaneous water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 4 illustrates a sensor member of the instantaneous water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate examples of the instantaneous water heater according to the present invention.BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0023] The features of the instantaneous water heater according to the present invention will be understood by means of the embodiments described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] Meanwhile, in describing the embodiments, detailed descriptions of components that are widely known and used in the art to which the present invention belongs will be omitted for the purpose of avoiding unnecessary descriptions and conveying the gist of the present invention more clearly.

[0025] Hereinafter, an instantaneous water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0026] The instantaneous water heater 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a main body 100 that includes a water inlet pipe 110 and a water outlet pipe 120; a coil pipe 200 that allows raw water to be introduced and discharged into and from the main body 100; a heater 300 that heats the water within the coil pipe 200 and the main body 100; and a steam module 400 that allows the hot water to be discharged as the steam is introduced to increase the steam pressure when the hot water is being discharged, and allows the steam pressure to decrease when the hot water is not being discharged.

[0027] First, the main body 100 comprises an inlet pipe 110 through which raw water is introduced and a water outlet pipe 120 through which hot water is discharged. The main body 100 may be in the form of a tank filled with the raw water inside. It is installed in a place where the instantaneous water heater is applied, serving as the body of the instantaneous water heater 1. The water inlet pipe 110 and the water outlet pipe 120 are respectively inserted into the upper part of the main body 100, allowing the raw water to be introduced and filled in the internal space of the main body 100 through the water inlet pipe 110 and the hot water heated within the main body 100 to be discharged to the outside through the water outlet pipe 120.

[0028] In this case, the water inlet pipe 110 is connected to a public water supply facility, etc., allowing the raw water to be supplied, and the water outlet pipe 120 is configured to allow the hot water to be discharged to the point of use. The main body 100 must measure the temperature and check the presence of water and may be provided with one or multiple bimetal switches to control the operation of the heater 300. Preferably, it may be provided with about three bimetal switches to enable the generation of hot water and smooth supply of hot water. The main body 100 is provided with a tank-shaped space filled with the raw water inside, which can be partitioned into a first space s1 and a second space s2 by a partition 130. The heater 300 and the coil pipe 200 are located in the first space s1, and the lower pipe 210 is located in the second space s2.

[0029] Furthermore, the main body 100 further comprises a sensor member 140 in which a temperature-measuring side and a water presence-measuring side are integrally formed.

[0030] The sensor member 140 may be provided with a thermistor 141 that measures the temperature and a terminal 142 that sends a minute current to the thermistor 141 to allow an electric current to pass through the main body 100. Therefore, the thermistor 141 can be used to monitor the temperature of the hot water within the main body 100 in real time, and with the minute current sent to the thermistor 141 to allow an electric current to pass through the main body 100, the presence of water within the main body 100 can be continuously monitored.

[0031] At this time, the sensor member 140 may be provided with a flange for connection to the main body 100, and a silicon O-ring is required for current-blocking where the electric current does not pass.

[0032] In addition, the main body 100 further comprises a partition 130 for blocking the flow of the raw water discharged from the lower pipe 210.

[0033] The partition 130 may be in the form of a plate corresponding to the internal cross-sectional area of the main body 100. The partition 130 may be inserted into the bottom of the main body 100 between the lower pipe 210 and the heater 300 and then assembled on a protruding portion of the heater 300. The main body 100 is partitioned by partition 130 into the first space s1 where the coil pipe 200 and the heater 300 are provided and the second space s2 where the lower pipe 210 is located, thereby separating the lower pipe 210 from the first space s1. Moreover, the partition 130 further comprises a separation flow path 131 formed laterally between the partition 130 and the inner wall of the main body 100 to allow the raw water to move from the second space s2 to the first space s1.

[0034] The separation flow path 131 is formed as the partition 130 is spaced from the inner wall of the main body 100, allowing the raw water discharged from the lower pipe 210 located in the second space s2 to be introduced into the first space s1 through the separation flow path 131, thereby directing the raw water to move upward along the coil pipe 200 and the inner wall of the main body 100.

[0035] In this case, the separation flow path 131 is configured to block the air contained in the raw water from being introduced toward the side where the heater 300 is provided. Regarding the heater 300, its thermal transfer coefficient may vary proportionally with the time of contact with the air contained in the raw water, potentially leading to damage. Therefore, the function of blocking the air flow of the raw water using the separation flow path 131 can prevent damage to the heater 300.

[0036] Moreover, the coil pipe 200 is connected to the water inlet pipe 110 to allow the raw water to be introduced and includes a lower pipe 210 that allows the raw water introduced into the main body 100 to be discharged. The coil pipe 200 is inserted into the main body 100 to be located around the perimeter of the heater 300 in a non-contact manner. The upper part of the coil pipe 200 is connected to the water inlet pipe 110 of the main body 100 to allow the raw water to be introduced into the coil pipe 200, and the lower pipe 210 is provided in the lower part of the coil pipe 200 to allow the raw water introduced into the coil pipe 200 to be discharged through the lower pipe 210 and fill the internal space of the main body 100.

[0037] At this time, the coil pipe 200 may be in the form of a coil that is wound around the perimeter of the heater 300 in a non-contact manner. The number of times the coil is wound can be adjusted, and the coil portion of the coil pipe 200 is tightly wound near the inner wall of the main body 100, allowing the raw water introduced into the coil portion of the coil pipe 200 to be first indirectly heated by the heater 300 and the raw water passing through the coil pipe 200 and filled in the interior of the main body 100 to be then heated directly by the heater 300.

[0038] In this case, the raw water is instantaneously heated in a primary indirect and secondary direct manner in a ceramic heater structure by means of the coil-shaped coil pipe 200, generating hot water, thereby rapidly heating the water to a required temperature and smoothly providing hot water regardless of the amount of hot water discharged or the temperature of raw water introduced.

[0039] Furthermore, the coil pipe 200 further comprises a lower pipe 210 that forms a fluid flow pattern of the raw water introduced into the main body using one or more discharge holes 211 formed in the circumferential direction. The lower pipe 210 is formed to extend in the circumferential direction within the second space s2 partitioned by the partition 130. The one or more discharge holes 211 are formed laterally in the circumferential direction of the lower pipe 210, allowing the raw water passing through the coil portion of the coil pipe 200 to be introduced into the main body 100, and for example, four or more discharge holes 211 may be formed in the lower pipe 210. Thus, when the raw water is discharged using the discharge holes 211 of the lower pipe 210, the raw water discharged through the one or more discharge holes 211 undergoes fine swirling motion in the second space s2 and then flows into the first space s1 of the main body 100 through the separation flow path 131. The raw water introduced into the first space s1 forms a fluid flow pattern where the raw water moves upward along the coil pipe 200 and the inner wall of the main body 100, allowing for different flow rates (water pressures) on the heater 300 and the coil pipe 200 in the non-circular direction.

[0040] In this case, the raw water can be sufficiently heated while maintaining a constant flow rate of the raw water within the heater 300, and the flow rate in the non-circular direction of the coil pipe 200 is higher than that within the heater 300, allowing the consistently heated hot water to be introduced and discharged through the water outlet pipe 120. Therefore, it is possible to significantly reduce heat loss from the outer wall of the main body 100, and prevent disturbance by means of the fluid flow through the partition 130, the lower pipe 210 and the one or more discharge holes 211.

[0041] In addition, the heater 300 is configured to indirectly heat the water introduced into the coil pipe 200 and directly heat the water introduced into the main body 100, generating hot water. The heater 300 is installed inside the coil pipe 200 within the main body 100 in a non-contact manner and generates heat by the operation of an external power source, thereby heating the raw water filled within the main body 100 and the raw water flowing through the coil pipe 200 directly and indirectly, respectively, thereby generating hot water.

[0042] In this case, the heater 300 is provided to stand vertically in the form of a plate to uniformly heat the internal space of the main body 100.

[0043] Moreover, the heater 300 may be made as a ceramic heater or a zirconium heater, and one or more heaters 300 may be arranged at regular intervals.

[0044] The one or more heaters 300 made as ceramic heaters or zirconium heaters have their plates arranged in parallel with each other at regular intervals, and the heaters 300 are basically made as ceramic heaters.

[0045] In this case, adding one or more heaters 300 can improve the heating efficiency for the raw water to generate hot water more quickly. Ceramic heaters have a heating rate approximately 8 to 10 times faster than conventional sheath heaters. For example, they can reach a temperature of 800° C. within 10 to 30 seconds, minimizing heat loss and maximizing energy efficiency.

[0046] Furthermore, the heater 300 has a thickness that is determined depending on low or high current.

[0047] The thickness of the heater 300 depending on low or high current can be formed as 2 mm for low current and 3 mm for high current, allowing for smooth operation of the ceramic heater 300 in water by determining the thickness of the ceramic heater 300 according to the specifications of the applied current.

[0048] In addition, the steam module 400 is configured to allow the hot water to be discharged through the water outlet pipe as the steam of the hot water generated through the heater is introduced to increase the steam pressure and allow the steam pressure to decrease when the hot water is not being discharged. The steam module 400 is provided with a separate, independent space at the upper part of the main body 100 so that the space of the steam module 400 is filled with the steam of the hot water. The water outlet pipe 120 of the main body 100 penetrates into the upper part of the steam module 400 and is connected thereto, and the water inlet pipe 110) of the main body 100 is also connected to the upper part of the steam module 400, allowing the raw water to be introduced into the main body 100 and the hot water generated in the main body 100 to be discharged through the water outlet pipe 120.

[0049] Moreover, the steam module 400 further comprises a chamber 410 where a vacuum breaker 450 is closed as the steam is introduced during use of hot water, allowing the steam pressure to rise, and the vacuum breaker 450 is opened during non-use of hot water, allowing the steam pressure to dissipate.

[0050] The chamber 410 is an independent space formed at the upper part of the main body 100, and the water outlet pipe 120 and the water inlet pipe 110 penetrate into the chamber 410 and are connected to the main body 100, respectively. The internal space of the chamber 410 can be filled with the steam from the hot water of the main body 100.

[0051] Meanwhile, in order to fill the chamber 410 with steam, the vacuum breaker 450 is provided at the upper part of the chamber 410. When the steam introduced into the chamber 410 reaches an appropriate steam pressure, the vacuum breaker 450 is closed, allowing the steam to fill the chamber 410. In other words, when the hot water is being discharged, the interior of the chamber 410 is filled with steam, allowing the hot water to be discharged through the water outlet pipe 120. When the hot water is not used, the steam pressure within the chamber 410 decreases, causing the vacuum breaker 450 to open and allowing the steam to transform into water. Then, the water transformed from steam is collected in a collection unit 430 provided the bottom of the chamber 410 and is returned back into the interior of the main body 100.

[0052] Here, the inlet pipe 110 and the water outlet pipe 120 pass through the chamber 410, and the water outlet pipe 120 passing through the chamber 410 further comprises a steam hole 420 that allows the steam of the hot water to be introduced into the chamber 410.

[0053] The steam hole 420 is formed as a small hole on one side of the water outlet pipe 120 inserted through the chamber 410, allowing the chamber 410 to be filled with the steam pressure through the steam hole 420 when the hot water is discharged, enabling the hot water to be discharged under direct water pressure through the water outlet pipe 120.

[0054] Furthermore, the steam module 400 further comprises a vacuum breaker 450 that is closed when the steam is introduced into the chamber 410 and fills it with an appropriate steam pressure and is opened when the steam inflow is blocked to cause the steam pressure to decrease.

[0055] The vacuum breaker 450 protrudes from the upper part of the steam module 400 and is connected to the internal space of the chamber 410 so that it is closed by the steam pressure entering the chamber 410 or opened when the steam pressure decreases.

[0056] Here, the vacuum breaker 450 comprises: a housing 451 that penetrates through the chamber 410 and has a space through which the steam pressure is introduced; and an operating mechanism 452 that moves up and down within the housing 451 in response to the steam pressure to selectively open and close the housing 451.

[0057] The housing 451 is a pipe body with an internal space, and the lower side of the housing 451 is connected to the internal space of the chamber 410, and the vacuum breaker 450 is installed within the steam module 400. The housing 451 has an inlet through which the steam pressure is introduced and an outlet through which the steam pressure is discharged.

[0058] The operating mechanism 452 moves up and down within the housing 451 in response to the steam pressure to selectively block the outlet of the housing 451. When the steam pressure exceeds the weight of the operating mechanism 452, the operating mechanism 452 moves upwards to block the flow path of the housing 451, and when the steam pressure is lower than the weight of the operating mechanism 452, the operating mechanism 452 moves downwards to open flow path of the housing 451.

[0059] In this case, the operating mechanism 452 may be provided with an O-ring for sealing and a stopper to facilitate the closing of the flow path of the housing 451. The steam pressure entering the chamber 410 can be adjusted to correspond to the weight of the operating mechanism 452, typically set to match the atmospheric pressure. If the pressure exceeds 1 atmosphere, for example, the vacuum breaker 450 is closed, allowing the steam to fill the chamber 410.

[0060] In this scenario, with the application of the steam module 400, the vacuum breaker 450 is closed at an appropriate steam pressure, allowing the steam to fill the chamber 410 and enabling the hot water to be discharged through the water outlet pipe 120 under direct water pressure. This direct water pressure structure ensures that when the hot water is not used, the vacuum breaker 450 opens, allowing the steam pressure within the chamber 410 to decrease. Furthermore, the heat generated by the steam filled in the chamber 410 helps minimize heat loss from the upper part of the main body 100.

[0061] Additionally, the chamber 410 further comprises a collection unit 430 that collects the water generated by the steam introduced into the chamber, allowing the collected water to be returned into the main body 100.

[0062] The collection unit 430 is formed as a water collection portion in the central part of the bottom of the chamber 410, lower than the floor of the chamber 410, allowing the water generated by the steam introduced into the chamber 410 to be collected in the collection unit 430. The water outlet pipe 120 is connected to the bottom of the collection unit 430, and an inlet groove 431 is formed at the bottom of the connected water outlet pipe 120, allowing the moisture collected in the collection unit 430 to be returned into the main body 100 through the inlet groove 431.

[0063] In this case, the collection unit 430 prevents the water from remaining within the chamber 410 to smoothly maintain the space heated by steam, and allows the water generated by the steam within the chamber 410 to be returned into the main body 100 very easily, making the structure highly efficient.

[0064] Next, examples of the instantaneous water heater according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0065] In one example, as shown in FIG. 5, according to the instantaneous water heater 1 having the above-described structure, when the raw water is discharged through the discharge holes 211 formed in the lateral direction of the lower pipe 210, fine swirling motion occurs due to the uneven discharge volume of the four discharge holes 211. As the raw water discharged through the four discharge holes 211 undergoes fine swirling motion, it moves from the second space s2 to the first space s1 through the separation flow path 131, forming a flow field along the inner wall of the main body 100.

[0066] At this time, the raw water flowing along the inner wall of the main body 100 is collected toward the water outlet pipe 120 in the non-circular direction of the coil pipe 200 (left). Additionally, the raw water discharged through the four discharge holes 211 flows along the coil pipe 200, forming a vector field (right).

[0067] Moreover, as shown in FIG. 6, the instantaneous water heater 1 exhibits the temperature and velocity distribution patterns in the abnormal state flow pipe and the main body at a flow rate of 3 L / min and an electric power of 4.2 kW for up to 30 seconds. Convection transfer of heat occurs due to the micro-flow, and the temperature rise and discharge occur simultaneously around the heater depending on the amount of water introduced. The speed was adjusted to a maximum of 0.6 m / s scale, and the temperature was visualized within a range of up to 400° C. after scaling adjustment. Ansys CFX fluid analysis used.

[0068] As described above, the present invention has been described with the description and drawings illustrating specific preferred embodiments, but the terms used herein are intended to easily describe the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention set forth in the claims.

[0069] It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains that various changes, modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the idea and scope of the invention as defined by the claims based on the above-described embodiments.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0023]The features of the instantaneous water heater according to the present invention will be understood by means of the embodiments described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024]Meanwhile, in describing the embodiments, detailed descriptions of components that are widely known and used in the art to which the present invention belongs will be omitted for the purpose of avoiding unnecessary descriptions and conveying the gist of the present invention more clearly.

[0025]Hereinafter, an instantaneous water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0026]The instantaneous water heater 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a main body 100 that includes a water inlet pipe 110 and a water outlet pipe 120; a coil pipe 200 that allows raw water to be introduced and discharged into and from the main body 100; a heater 300 that heats the water within the coil ...

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to an instantaneous water heater which is configured to instantaneously heat raw water in a primary indirect and secondary direct manner in a ceramic heater structure, thereby rapidly heating the water to a required temperature and smoothly providing hot water regardless of the amount of hot water discharged or the temperature of raw water introduced, while minimizing heat loss from the water heater, the instantaneous water heater being provided with an integrated steam pressure module required for direct water pressure.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] In general, a water heater is a device that heats raw water supplied from a public water supply or stored in a water tank to generate and provide hot water. A representative example thereof is a boiler, and recently there are small water heaters that are directly connected to faucets in a building to provide hot water.

[0003] These water heaters use electricity as an energy source to heat the raw water. An electric water heater is generally provided with a heater which directly or indirectly contacts the raw water for the purpose of heating the water.

[0004] For example, referring to Korean Patent Application Publication No. 10-2015-0046539, there is disclosed a sterilized water dispenser for infant formula, comprising: a water tank provided with a raw water inlet and a hot water outlet; a ceramic heater installed inside the water tank; a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the hot water contained in the water tank; and a control unit for controlling the temperature of the ceramic heater based on the measured value of the temperature sensor.

[0005] However, conventional hot water storage-type water heaters necessarily comprise a tank for storing water and a heater for transferring heat energy into the tank to heat the water stored in the tank. Therefore, due to the nature of hot water storage-type water heaters, it takes a considerable amount of time to heat the water contained in a larger volume than the contact area of the heater, and continuous heat energy is wasted to maintain the temperature of the water due to heat loss from the tank, resulting in significantly decreased thermal efficiency. Moreover, the temperature at which hot water is discharged is inconsistent with the amount of hot water discharged or the temperature of raw water introduced, which is also problematic.

[0006] Furthermore, according to the prior art, since the raw water introduced into the tank has a relatively low temperature and a high flow rate, it collides with hot water filled and heated in the tank, causing disturbance, which is also problematic.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTIONTechnical Problem

[0007] Accordingly, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described conventional problems, and an object of the present invention is to an instantaneous water heater which is configured to instantaneously heat the raw water in a primary indirect and secondary direct manner in a ceramic heater structure, thereby rapidly heating the water to a required temperature and smoothly providing hot water regardless of the amount of hot water discharged or the temperature of raw water introduced, the instantaneous water heater providing a direct water pressure structure which uses a steam pressure module that allows the hot water to be discharged through a water outlet pipe as the steam of hot water is filled therein to increase the steam pressure and the steam is blocked, while reducing heat loss from the hot water tank.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide an instantaneous water heater which is configured to allow raw water passing through a coil-shaped pipe to be discharged through one or more discharge holes formed in a circumferential direction in a lower pipe, such that the discharged raw water undergoes fine swirling motion, forming a fluid flow pattern where the raw water moves upward along a coil pipe and its wall, thereby allowing the raw water to be sufficiently heated while maintaining a constant flow rate of the raw water within the heater. Moreover, the flow rate in the non-circular direction of the coil pipe is higher than that within the heater, allowing the consistently heated hot water to be introduced and discharged through the water outlet pipe. Therefore, it is possible to minimize heat loss when heating the water, thereby preventing disturbance through its structure.Technical Solution

[0009] To achieve the above-described objects, the present invention provides an instantaneous water heater comprising:

[0010] a main body including a water inlet pipe through which raw water is introduced and a water outlet pipe through which hot water is discharged;

[0011] a coil pipe connected to the water inlet pipe to allow the raw water to be introduced and including a lower pipe that allows the raw water introduced into the main body to be discharged;

[0012] a heater that first indirectly heats the water introduced into the coil pipe and then directly heats the water discharged into the main body to generate hot water; and

[0013] a steam module that allows the hot water to be discharged through the water outlet pipe as the steam of the hot water generated through the heater is introduced to increase the steam pressure, and allows the steam pressure to decrease when the hot water is not being discharged.

[0014] Moreover, the present invention provides an instantaneous water heater, wherein the coil pipe further comprises a lower pipe that allows the raw water to be discharged into the main body using one or more discharge holes formed in a circumferential direction, forming a fluid flow pattern of the raw water flowing into the main body.

[0015] Furthermore, the present invention provides an instantaneous water heater, wherein the main body further comprises a sensor member in which a temperature-measuring side and a water presence-measuring side are integrally formed.Advantageous Effects of Invention

[0016] According to the present invention as described above, it is possible to rapidly heat the water to a required temperature and smoothly provide hot water regardless of the amount of hot water discharged or the temperature of raw water introduced, while providing a direct water pressure structure which uses a steam pressure module and minimizing heat loss from the hot water tank, leading to improved energy efficiency of heat energy.

[0017] Moreover, the fluid flow pattern is formed where the raw water introduced into the main body moves upward along the coil pipe and its wall, ensuring consistent heating within the ceramic heater, reducing heat loss in the non-circular direction of the coil pipe, and preventing disturbance.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0018] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an instantaneous water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view and enlarged views of main portions illustrating the instantaneous water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 3 illustrate a lower pipe of the instantaneous water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 4 illustrates a sensor member of the instantaneous water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate examples of the instantaneous water heater according to the present invention.BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0023] The features of the instantaneous water heater according to the present invention will be understood by means of the embodiments described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] Meanwhile, in describing the embodiments, detailed descriptions of components that are widely known and used in the art to which the present invention belongs will be omitted for the purpose of avoiding unnecessary descriptions and conveying the gist of the present invention more clearly.

[0025] Hereinafter, an instantaneous water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0026] The instantaneous water heater 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a main body 100 that includes a water inlet pipe 110 and a water outlet pipe 120; a coil pipe 200 that allows raw water to be introduced and discharged into and from the main body 100; a heater 300 that heats the water within the coil pipe 200 and the main body 100; and a steam module 400 that allows the hot water to be discharged as the steam is introduced to increase the steam pressure when the hot water is being discharged, and allows the steam pressure to decrease when the hot water is not being discharged.

[0027] First, the main body 100 comprises an inlet pipe 110 through which raw water is introduced and a water outlet pipe 120 through which hot water is discharged. The main body 100 may be in the form of a tank filled with the raw water inside. It is installed in a place where the instantaneous water heater is applied, serving as the body of the instantaneous water heater 1. The water inlet pipe 110 and the water outlet pipe 120 are respectively inserted into the upper part of the main body 100, allowing the raw water to be introduced and filled in the internal space of the main body 100 through the water inlet pipe 110 and the hot water heated within the main body 100 to be discharged to the outside through the water outlet pipe 120.

[0028] In this case, the water inlet pipe 110 is connected to a public water supply facility, etc., allowing the raw water to be supplied, and the water outlet pipe 120 is configured to allow the hot water to be discharged to the point of use. The main body 100 must measure the temperature and check the presence of water and may be provided with one or multiple bimetal switches to control the operation of the heater 300. Preferably, it may be provided with about three bimetal switches to enable the generation of hot water and smooth supply of hot water. The main body 100 is provided with a tank-shaped space filled with the raw water inside, which can be partitioned into a first space s1 and a second space s2 by a partition 130. The heater 300 and the coil pipe 200 are located in the first space s1, and the lower pipe 210 is located in the second space s2.

[0029] Furthermore, the main body 100 further comprises a sensor member 140 in which a temperature-measuring side and a water presence-measuring side are integrally formed.

[0030] The sensor member 140 may be provided with a thermistor 141 that measures the temperature and a terminal 142 that sends a minute current to the thermistor 141 to allow an electric current to pass through the main body 100. Therefore, the thermistor 141 can be used to monitor the temperature of the hot water within the main body 100 in real time, and with the minute current sent to the thermistor 141 to allow an electric current to pass through the main body 100, the presence of water within the main body 100 can be continuously monitored.

[0031] At this time, the sensor member 140 may be provided with a flange for connection to the main body 100, and a silicon O-ring is required for current-blocking where the electric current does not pass.

[0032] In addition, the main body 100 further comprises a partition 130 for blocking the flow of the raw water discharged from the lower pipe 210.

[0033] The partition 130 may be in the form of a plate corresponding to the internal cross-sectional area of the main body 100. The partition 130 may be inserted into the bottom of the main body 100 between the lower pipe 210 and the heater 300 and then assembled on a protruding portion of the heater 300. The main body 100 is partitioned by partition 130 into the first space s1 where the coil pipe 200 and the heater 300 are provided and the second space s2 where the lower pipe 210 is located, thereby separating the lower pipe 210 from the first space s1. Moreover, the partition 130 further comprises a separation flow path 131 formed laterally between the partition 130 and the inner wall of the main body 100 to allow the raw water to move from the second space s2 to the first space s1.

[0034] The separation flow path 131 is formed as the partition 130 is spaced from the inner wall of the main body 100, allowing the raw water discharged from the lower pipe 210 located in the second space s2 to be introduced into the first space s1 through the separation flow path 131, thereby directing the raw water to move upward along the coil pipe 200 and the inner wall of the main body 100.

[0035] In this case, the separation flow path 131 is configured to block the air contained in the raw water from being introduced toward the side where the heater 300 is provided. Regarding the heater 300, its thermal transfer coefficient may vary proportionally with the time of contact with the air contained in the raw water, potentially leading to damage. Therefore, the function of blocking the air flow of the raw water using the separation flow path 131 can prevent damage to the heater 300.

[0036] Moreover, the coil pipe 200 is connected to the water inlet pipe 110 to allow the raw water to be introduced and includes a lower pipe 210 that allows the raw water introduced into the main body 100 to be discharged. The coil pipe 200 is inserted into the main body 100 to be located around the perimeter of the heater 300 in a non-contact manner. The upper part of the coil pipe 200 is connected to the water inlet pipe 110 of the main body 100 to allow the raw water to be introduced into the coil pipe 200, and the lower pipe 210 is provided in the lower part of the coil pipe 200 to allow the raw water introduced into the coil pipe 200 to be discharged through the lower pipe 210 and fill the internal space of the main body 100.

[0037] At this time, the coil pipe 200 may be in the form of a coil that is wound around the perimeter of the heater 300 in a non-contact manner. The number of times the coil is wound can be adjusted, and the coil portion of the coil pipe 200 is tightly wound near the inner wall of the main body 100, allowing the raw water introduced into the coil portion of the coil pipe 200 to be first indirectly heated by the heater 300 and the raw water passing through the coil pipe 200 and filled in the interior of the main body 100 to be then heated directly by the heater 300.

[0038] In this case, the raw water is instantaneously heated in a primary indirect and secondary direct manner in a ceramic heater structure by means of the coil-shaped coil pipe 200, generating hot water, thereby rapidly heating the water to a required temperature and smoothly providing hot water regardless of the amount of hot water discharged or the temperature of raw water introduced.

[0039] Furthermore, the coil pipe 200 further comprises a lower pipe 210 that forms a fluid flow pattern of the raw water introduced into the main body using one or more discharge holes 211 formed in the circumferential direction. The lower pipe 210 is formed to extend in the circumferential direction within the second space s2 partitioned by the partition 130. The one or more discharge holes 211 are formed laterally in the circumferential direction of the lower pipe 210, allowing the raw water passing through the coil portion of the coil pipe 200 to be introduced into the main body 100, and for example, four or more discharge holes 211 may be formed in the lower pipe 210. Thus, when the raw water is discharged using the discharge holes 211 of the lower pipe 210, the raw water discharged through the one or more discharge holes 211 undergoes fine swirling motion in the second space s2 and then flows into the first space s1 of the main body 100 through the separation flow path 131. The raw water introduced into the first space s1 forms a fluid flow pattern where the raw water moves upward along the coil pipe 200 and the inner wall of the main body 100, allowing for different flow rates (water pressures) on the heater 300 and the coil pipe 200 in the non-circular direction.

[0040] In this case, the raw water can be sufficiently heated while maintaining a constant flow rate of the raw water within the heater 300, and the flow rate in the non-circular direction of the coil pipe 200 is higher than that within the heater 300, allowing the consistently heated hot water to be introduced and discharged through the water outlet pipe 120. Therefore, it is possible to significantly reduce heat loss from the outer wall of the main body 100, and prevent disturbance by means of the fluid flow through the partition 130, the lower pipe 210 and the one or more discharge holes 211.

[0041] In addition, the heater 300 is configured to indirectly heat the water introduced into the coil pipe 200 and directly heat the water introduced into the main body 100, generating hot water. The heater 300 is installed inside the coil pipe 200 within the main body 100 in a non-contact manner and generates heat by the operation of an external power source, thereby heating the raw water filled within the main body 100 and the raw water flowing through the coil pipe 200 directly and indirectly, respectively, thereby generating hot water.

[0042] In this case, the heater 300 is provided to stand vertically in the form of a plate to uniformly heat the internal space of the main body 100.

[0043] Moreover, the heater 300 may be made as a ceramic heater or a zirconium heater, and one or more heaters 300 may be arranged at regular intervals.

[0044] The one or more heaters 300 made as ceramic heaters or zirconium heaters have their plates arranged in parallel with each other at regular intervals, and the heaters 300 are basically made as ceramic heaters.

[0045] In this case, adding one or more heaters 300 can improve the heating efficiency for the raw water to generate hot water more quickly. Ceramic heaters have a heating rate approximately 8 to 10 times faster than conventional sheath heaters. For example, they can reach a temperature of 800° C. within 10 to 30 seconds, minimizing heat loss and maximizing energy efficiency.

[0046] Furthermore, the heater 300 has a thickness that is determined depending on low or high current.

[0047] The thickness of the heater 300 depending on low or high current can be formed as 2 mm for low current and 3 mm for high current, allowing for smooth operation of the ceramic heater 300 in water by determining the thickness of the ceramic heater 300 according to the specifications of the applied current.

[0048] In addition, the steam module 400 is configured to allow the hot water to be discharged through the water outlet pipe as the steam of the hot water generated through the heater is introduced to increase the steam pressure and allow the steam pressure to decrease when the hot water is not being discharged. The steam module 400 is provided with a separate, independent space at the upper part of the main body 100 so that the space of the steam module 400 is filled with the steam of the hot water. The water outlet pipe 120 of the main body 100 penetrates into the upper part of the steam module 400 and is connected thereto, and the water inlet pipe 110) of the main body 100 is also connected to the upper part of the steam module 400, allowing the raw water to be introduced into the main body 100 and the hot water generated in the main body 100 to be discharged through the water outlet pipe 120.

[0049] Moreover, the steam module 400 further comprises a chamber 410 where a vacuum breaker 450 is closed as the steam is introduced during use of hot water, allowing the steam pressure to rise, and the vacuum breaker 450 is opened during non-use of hot water, allowing the steam pressure to dissipate.

[0050] The chamber 410 is an independent space formed at the upper part of the main body 100, and the water outlet pipe 120 and the water inlet pipe 110 penetrate into the chamber 410 and are connected to the main body 100, respectively. The internal space of the chamber 410 can be filled with the steam from the hot water of the main body 100.

[0051] Meanwhile, in order to fill the chamber 410 with steam, the vacuum breaker 450 is provided at the upper part of the chamber 410. When the steam introduced into the chamber 410 reaches an appropriate steam pressure, the vacuum breaker 450 is closed, allowing the steam to fill the chamber 410. In other words, when the hot water is being discharged, the interior of the chamber 410 is filled with steam, allowing the hot water to be discharged through the water outlet pipe 120. When the hot water is not used, the steam pressure within the chamber 410 decreases, causing the vacuum breaker 450 to open and allowing the steam to transform into water. Then, the water transformed from steam is collected in a collection unit 430 provided the bottom of the chamber 410 and is returned back into the interior of the main body 100.

[0052] Here, the inlet pipe 110 and the water outlet pipe 120 pass through the chamber 410, and the water outlet pipe 120 passing through the chamber 410 further comprises a steam hole 420 that allows the steam of the hot water to be introduced into the chamber 410.

[0053] The steam hole 420 is formed as a small hole on one side of the water outlet pipe 120 inserted through the chamber 410, allowing the chamber 410 to be filled with the steam pressure through the steam hole 420 when the hot water is discharged, enabling the hot water to be discharged under direct water pressure through the water outlet pipe 120.

[0054] Furthermore, the steam module 400 further comprises a vacuum breaker 450 that is closed when the steam is introduced into the chamber 410 and fills it with an appropriate steam pressure and is opened when the steam inflow is blocked to cause the steam pressure to decrease.

[0055] The vacuum breaker 450 protrudes from the upper part of the steam module 400 and is connected to the internal space of the chamber 410 so that it is closed by the steam pressure entering the chamber 410 or opened when the steam pressure decreases.

[0056] Here, the vacuum breaker 450 comprises: a housing 451 that penetrates through the chamber 410 and has a space through which the steam pressure is introduced; and an operating mechanism 452 that moves up and down within the housing 451 in response to the steam pressure to selectively open and close the housing 451.

[0057] The housing 451 is a pipe body with an internal space, and the lower side of the housing 451 is connected to the internal space of the chamber 410, and the vacuum breaker 450 is installed within the steam module 400. The housing 451 has an inlet through which the steam pressure is introduced and an outlet through which the steam pressure is discharged.

[0058] The operating mechanism 452 moves up and down within the housing 451 in response to the steam pressure to selectively block the outlet of the housing 451. When the steam pressure exceeds the weight of the operating mechanism 452, the operating mechanism 452 moves upwards to block the flow path of the housing 451, and when the steam pressure is lower than the weight of the operating mechanism 452, the operating mechanism 452 moves downwards to open flow path of the housing 451.

[0059] In this case, the operating mechanism 452 may be provided with an O-ring for sealing and a stopper to facilitate the closing of the flow path of the housing 451. The steam pressure entering the chamber 410 can be adjusted to correspond to the weight of the operating mechanism 452, typically set to match the atmospheric pressure. If the pressure exceeds 1 atmosphere, for example, the vacuum breaker 450 is closed, allowing the steam to fill the chamber 410.

[0060] In this scenario, with the application of the steam module 400, the vacuum breaker 450 is closed at an appropriate steam pressure, allowing the steam to fill the chamber 410 and enabling the hot water to be discharged through the water outlet pipe 120 under direct water pressure. This direct water pressure structure ensures that when the hot water is not used, the vacuum breaker 450 opens, allowing the steam pressure within the chamber 410 to decrease. Furthermore, the heat generated by the steam filled in the chamber 410 helps minimize heat loss from the upper part of the main body 100.

[0061] Additionally, the chamber 410 further comprises a collection unit 430 that collects the water generated by the steam introduced into the chamber, allowing the collected water to be returned into the main body 100.

[0062] The collection unit 430 is formed as a water collection portion in the central part of the bottom of the chamber 410, lower than the floor of the chamber 410, allowing the water generated by the steam introduced into the chamber 410 to be collected in the collection unit 430. The water outlet pipe 120 is connected to the bottom of the collection unit 430, and an inlet groove 431 is formed at the bottom of the connected water outlet pipe 120, allowing the moisture collected in the collection unit 430 to be returned into the main body 100 through the inlet groove 431.

[0063] In this case, the collection unit 430 prevents the water from remaining within the chamber 410 to smoothly maintain the space heated by steam, and allows the water generated by the steam within the chamber 410 to be returned into the main body 100 very easily, making the structure highly efficient.

[0064] Next, examples of the instantaneous water heater according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0065] In one example, as shown in FIG. 5, according to the instantaneous water heater 1 having the above-described structure, when the raw water is discharged through the discharge holes 211 formed in the lateral direction of the lower pipe 210, fine swirling motion occurs due to the uneven discharge volume of the four discharge holes 211. As the raw water discharged through the four discharge holes 211 undergoes fine swirling motion, it moves from the second space s2 to the first space s1 through the separation flow path 131, forming a flow field along the inner wall of the main body 100.

[0066] At this time, the raw water flowing along the inner wall of the main body 100 is collected toward the water outlet pipe 120 in the non-circular direction of the coil pipe 200 (left). Additionally, the raw water discharged through the four discharge holes 211 flows along the coil pipe 200, forming a vector field (right).

[0067] Moreover, as shown in FIG. 6, the instantaneous water heater 1 exhibits the temperature and velocity distribution patterns in the abnormal state flow pipe and the main body at a flow rate of 3 L / min and an electric power of 4.2 kW for up to 30 seconds. Convection transfer of heat occurs due to the micro-flow, and the temperature rise and discharge occur simultaneously around the heater depending on the amount of water introduced. The speed was adjusted to a maximum of 0.6 m / s scale, and the temperature was visualized within a range of up to 400° C. after scaling adjustment. Ansys CFX fluid analysis used.

[0068] As described above, the present invention has been described with the description and drawings illustrating specific preferred embodiments, but the terms used herein are intended to easily describe the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention set forth in the claims.

[0069] It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains that various changes, modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the idea and scope of the invention as defined by the claims based on the above-described embodiments.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0023]The features of the instantaneous water heater according to the present invention will be understood by means of the embodiments described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024]Meanwhile, in describing the embodiments, detailed descriptions of components that are widely known and used in the art to which the present invention belongs will be omitted for the purpose of avoiding unnecessary descriptions and conveying the gist of the present invention more clearly.

[0025]Hereinafter, an instantaneous water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0026]The instantaneous water heater 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a main body 100 that includes a water inlet pipe 110 and a water outlet pipe 120; a coil pipe 200 that allows raw water to be introduced and discharged into and from the main body 100; a heater 300 that heats the water within the coil ...

Claims

1. An instantaneous water heater comprising:a main body including a water inlet pipe through which raw water is introduced and a water outlet pipe through which hot water is discharged;a coil pipe connected to the water inlet pipe to allow the raw water to be introduced and including a lower pipe that allows the raw water introduced into the main body to be discharged;a heater that first indirectly heats the water introduced into the coil pipe and then directly heats the water discharged into the main body to generate hot water; anda steam module that allows the hot water to be discharged through the water outlet pipe as the steam of the hot water generated through the heater is introduced to increase the steam pressure, and allows the steam pressure to decrease when the hot water is not being discharged.

2. The instantaneous water heater of claim 1, wherein the steam module further comprises a chamber where a vacuum breaker is closed as the steam is introduced during use of hot water, allowing the steam pressure to rise, and the vacuum breaker is opened during non-use of hot water, allowing the steam pressure to dissipate.

3. The instantaneous water heater of claim 2, wherein the inlet pipe and the water outlet pipe pass through the chamber, and the water outlet pipe passing through the chamber further comprises a steam hole that allows the steam of the hot water to be introduced into the chamber.

4. The instantaneous water heater of claim 2, wherein the chamber further comprises a collection unit that collects the water generated by the steam introduced into the chamber, allowing the collected water to be returned into the main body.

5. The instantaneous water heater of claim 1, wherein the steam module further comprises a vacuum breaker that is closed when the steam is introduced into the chamber and fills it with an appropriate steam pressure and is opened when the steam inflow is blocked to cause the steam pressure to decrease.

6. The instantaneous water heater of claim 1, wherein the main body further comprises a partition for blocking the flow of the raw water discharged from the lower pipe.

7. The instantaneous water heater of claim 6, wherein the partition further comprises a separation flow path formed laterally between the partition and the inner wall of the main body to allow the raw water to move from the second space to the first space.

8. The instantaneous water heater of claim 1, wherein the coil pipe further comprises a lower pipe that allows the raw water to be discharged into the main body using one or more discharge holes formed in a circumferential direction, forming a fluid flow pattern of the raw water flowing into the main body.

9. The instantaneous water heater of claim 8, wherein the lower pipe is formed to extend in the circumferential direction inside the second space partitioned by the partition.

10. The instantaneous water heater of claim 1, comprising one or more heaters arranged at regular intervals, each having a thickness that is determined depending on low or high current.

11. The instantaneous water heater of claim 1, wherein the main body further comprises a sensor member in which a temperature-measuring side and a water presence-measuring side are integrally formed.

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