Valve housing, water softener valve and water softener

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of water treatment. Provided are a valve housing, a water softener valve and a water softener. The valve housing comprises a raw water inlet, a main cavity inlet, a main cavity, an auxiliary cavity, a soft water inlet, a soft water outlet, a water outlet and a water inlet; a raw water channel is formed between the raw water inlet and the main cavity inlet, the main cavity can be communicated with the main cavity inlet, and the main cavity is always communicated with the raw water outlet; the auxiliary cavity can be communicated with the raw water inlet through a communication channel; a soft water channel is formed between the soft water inlet and the soft water outlet, the soft water outlet is communicated with the auxiliary cavity, and the soft water inlet can be communicated with the raw water outlet by means of a softening device; a water channel is formed between the water outlet and the water inlet, and the water inlet is always communicated with the auxiliary cavity. Water in the auxiliary cavity can enter the water channel through the water inlet, and then discharged from the water outlet for use by users. The auxiliary cavity is always communicated with the water inlet, such that users can use water at any time, and water in the auxiliary cavity can remain available for use by users under various flow paths, thereby improving the flow path selectivity of the valve housing.

Description

Valve housing, water softener and water softener

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 202322556154.6 filed on September 19, 2023, entitled “Valve Housing, Soft Water Valve and Water Softener”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present application relates to the field of water treatment technology, and in particular to a valve housing, a water softener and a water softener. Background Art

[0004] As people's living standards continue to improve, their demands for daily water use are also becoming increasingly stringent. Residential water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium ions. Long-term use of hard water can be harmful to the body. For example, prolonged use of hard water can cause clothes to yellow and lose their luster. Scale can clog residential water pipes, and some heating equipment can suffer from scale buildup, which can affect heat transfer efficiency and, over time, damage the equipment. Reducing or removing the calcium and magnesium ions in water, softening hard water, offers numerous benefits. For example, bathing with soft water prevents dryness and skincare results in smoother skin. It also improves heat transfer efficiency in water heaters and reduces maintenance costs.

[0005] Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application proposes a valve housing, which aims to achieve switching of multiple functions and optimize the flow path design within the valve housing.

[0007] The present application also proposes a soft water valve.

[0008] The present application also proposes a water softener.

[0009] The valve housing provided according to an embodiment of the present application includes:

[0010] a raw water inlet and a main cavity inlet, wherein a raw water channel is formed between the raw water inlet and the main cavity inlet;

[0011] a main chamber, wherein the main chamber is communicable with the main chamber inlet and is in constant communication with the raw water outlet;

[0012] A secondary cavity, the secondary cavity being in communication with the raw water inlet through a communication channel;

[0013] a soft water inlet and a soft water outlet, wherein a soft water channel is formed between the soft water inlet and the soft water outlet, the soft water outlet is communicated with the secondary cavity, and the soft water inlet and the raw water outlet can be communicated with each other via a softening device;

[0014] A water outlet and a water inlet are provided, a water channel is formed between the water outlet and the water inlet, and the water inlet is always in communication with the auxiliary cavity.

[0015] According to the valve housing of the present invention, the main chamber is connected to the main chamber inlet of the raw water channel, allowing raw water to flow into the main chamber through the raw water inlet. The raw water inlet is also connected to the secondary chamber through a connecting channel, allowing the raw water to flow into the secondary chamber. The raw water is then passed through the raw water outlet of the main chamber to the softening device, where it is softened and produced as soft water. The main chamber and the main chamber inlet can be switched on and off by a valve core, allowing controllable water inflow to the main chamber. The raw water outlet in the main chamber is always in communication with the main chamber, meaning that raw water in the main chamber can enter the softening device through the raw water outlet. Softened water in the softening device can then flow into the secondary chamber through the soft water channel and be discharged through the water inlet in the secondary chamber for user use. In other words, water in the secondary chamber can enter the water channel through the water inlet and then be discharged through the water outlet for user use. The secondary chamber and the water inlet remain always in communication, ensuring user access to water at all times and maintaining water availability in the secondary chamber under various flow paths, thereby improving the flow path selectivity of the valve housing.

[0016] In some embodiments, the valve housing is provided with a communication inlet and a communication outlet, and the communication channel is formed between the communication inlet and the communication outlet.

[0017] In some embodiments, the communication inlet and the main cavity inlet can be disconnected, and the communication outlet and the secondary cavity are always connected.

[0018] In some embodiments, the communication inlet is always connected to the raw water inlet, and the communication outlet is connectable and disconnectable to the sub-cavity.

[0019] In some embodiments, the valve housing includes a connecting port, a water inlet channel is formed between the connecting port and the raw water outlet, and the connecting port is used to communicate with the softening device.

[0020] In some embodiments, the communication channel, the soft water channel, the water channel, and the water inlet channel are located on the same side of the valve housing.

[0021] In some embodiments, the communication channel and the soft water channel are located between the water inlet channel and the water use channel.

[0022] In some embodiments, the valve housing comprises:

[0023] The shell body is provided with the raw water inlet, the main cavity inlet, the main cavity, the auxiliary cavity, the soft water outlet, the water outlet, the water inlet and the raw water outlet.

[0024] In some embodiments, the housing body is provided with a water inlet groove communicating with the raw water outlet, a communication groove communicating with the auxiliary chamber and the raw water inlet, a soft water groove communicating with the soft water outlet, and a water outlet groove communicating with the water inlet and the water outlet. In some embodiments, the valve housing includes a softening connection portion that is sealingly connected to the housing body and covers the communication groove to form the communication channel.

[0025] In some embodiments, the softening connection portion is sealed on the water outlet trough to form the water channel.

[0026] In some embodiments, the softening connection portion is further provided with the connection port, and the connection port is connected to the water inlet groove to form the water inlet channel.

[0027] In some embodiments, the softening connection portion is further provided with the soft water inlet, and the soft water inlet is connected to the soft water tank to form the soft water channel.

[0028] In some embodiments, the slot opening surfaces of the connecting slot, the water outlet slot, the water inlet slot, and the soft water slot are coplanar.

[0029] In some embodiments, the valve housing is further provided with a sewage discharge passage, and at least one of the main chamber and the auxiliary chamber can be connected to and disconnected from the sewage discharge passage.

[0030] In some embodiments, the sewage discharge channel is located on a side of the valve housing facing away from the connecting channel, the soft water channel, the water channel and the water inlet channel.

[0031] In some embodiments, the valve housing further comprises a salt absorption channel, a first end of the salt absorption channel being connected to the soft water inlet, a second end of the salt absorption channel being connected to the secondary cavity, and a side wall of the salt absorption channel being connected to a salt box connection channel.

[0032] In some embodiments, the salt absorption channel includes a mounting channel and a filtering channel.

[0033] In some embodiments, the first end of the installation channel is connectable to the soft water inlet, the first end of the filtration channel is connected to the secondary cavity, and the second end of the installation channel is connected to the second end of the filtration channel through an end cover.

[0034] In some embodiments, a side wall of the installation channel is connected to the salt box connecting channel.

[0035] In some embodiments, an ejector is installed in the mounting channel.

[0036] In some embodiments, the raw water outlet is located on the bottom wall of the main chamber.

[0037] In some embodiments, the water inlet is located on the bottom wall of the sub-chamber.

[0038] In some embodiments, a flow channel for installing a flow meter is opened on the side wall of the water channel, and a flow stabilizing net is provided between the flow channel and the water inlet.

[0039] In some embodiments, the raw water channel and the water channel are connected or disconnected through a bypass valve.

[0040] In some embodiments, the raw water channel and the water channel are arranged in parallel.

[0041] In some embodiments, the main cavity and the sub-cavity are arranged in parallel.

[0042] The soft water valve provided in accordance with an embodiment of the present application includes:

[0043] The above-mentioned valve housing;

[0044] a main valve core, the main valve core being arranged in the main cavity;

[0045] A secondary valve core is arranged in the secondary cavity.

[0046] The soft water valve according to the embodiment of the present application includes the above-mentioned valve housing, and therefore has all the technical effects of the above-mentioned valve housing, which will not be repeated here.

[0047] The water softener provided according to an embodiment of the present application includes a softening device and the above-mentioned softening valve, and the softening device connects the raw water outlet and the soft water inlet.

[0048] Additional aspects and advantages of the present application will be given in part in the description below, and in part will become obvious from the description below, or will be learned through practice of the present application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application or related technologies, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or related technical descriptions. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without any creative work.

[0050] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a valve housing provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0051] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the valve housing provided in an embodiment of the present application from a side and rear perspective;

[0052] FIG3 is a schematic structural diagram of a valve housing provided by an embodiment of the present application from an oblique perspective;

[0053] FIG4 is a schematic diagram of a top view of the valve housing provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0054] FIG5 is a schematic structural diagram of a valve housing-in-housing body provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0055] FIG6 is a bottom view of the valve housing according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0056] Reference numerals: 110, valve housing; 111, main chamber; 112, auxiliary chamber; 113, raw water inlet; 114, water outlet; 115, sewage outlet; 116, main chamber inlet; 118, raw water outlet; 119, water inlet; 1110, salt tank connecting passage; 1111, soft water inlet; 1112, soft water outlet; 1113, connecting outlet; 1114, connecting port; 1115, sewage channel; 1116, sewage trough; 1117, installation channel; 1118, filter channel; 1120, water inlet trough; 1121, connecting trough; 1122, soft water trough; 1123, water outlet trough; 1130, cover; 1131, housing; 1140. First shell; 1141. Second shell; 1142. Third shell; 1143. Softening connection; 1144. Shell body; 140. Bypass valve; 150. Flow meter; 170. End cover; 180. Flow stabilizing net. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] The following embodiments of the present invention are described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are used to illustrate the present invention, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0058] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, it should be noted that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship, are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operate in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as limiting the embodiments of the present application. In addition, the terms "first", "second", and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0059] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "connected" and "connection" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they can refer to mechanical connections or electrical connections; they can refer to direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the embodiments of this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0060] In the embodiments of the present application, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, a first feature being "above" or "below" a second feature may mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, a first feature being "above," "above," and "above" a second feature may mean that the first feature is directly above or obliquely above the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is higher in level than the second feature. A first feature being "below," "below," and "below" a second feature may mean that the first feature is directly below or obliquely below the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is lower in level than the second feature.

[0061] In the description of this specification, the description with reference to the terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "example", "specific example", or "some examples" means that the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the embodiments of the present application. In this specification, the schematic representations of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described can be combined in any one or more embodiments or examples in a suitable manner. In addition, those skilled in the art can combine and combine different embodiments or examples described in this specification and the features of different embodiments or examples, unless they are contradictory.

[0062] The applicant found that in the relevant technology, softening equipment is usually used to remove calcium and magnesium ions in water. The softening equipment is usually equipped with a softening valve. The valve housing of the softening valve has concentrated functions and a complex structure. The water path inside the valve housing is complex, and the structure of the valve housing needs to be optimized.

[0063] Please refer to Figures 1 to 3. According to the embodiment of the present application, the valve housing 110 includes a raw water inlet 113 and a main chamber inlet 116, a main chamber 111, a secondary chamber 112, a soft water inlet 1111 and a soft water outlet 1112, a water outlet 114 and a water inlet 119. A raw water channel is formed between the raw water inlet 113 and the main chamber inlet 116; the main chamber 111 and the main chamber inlet 116 are communicable, and the main chamber 111 and the raw water outlet 118 are always connected; the secondary chamber 112 can be communicated with the raw water inlet 113 through a communicating channel; a soft water channel is formed between the soft water inlet 1111 and the soft water outlet 1112, the soft water outlet 1112 is communicated with the secondary chamber 112, and the soft water inlet 1111 and the raw water outlet 118 can be communicated through a softening device; a water channel is formed between the water outlet 114 and the water inlet 119, and the water inlet 119 is always connected with the secondary chamber 112.

[0064] According to the valve housing 110 of the present embodiment, the main chamber 111 is connected to the main chamber inlet 116 of the raw water channel, allowing raw water to enter the main chamber 111 through the raw water inlet 113. The raw water inlet 113 is also connected to the secondary chamber 112 through a connecting channel, allowing the raw water to flow into the secondary chamber 112. The raw water flows into the softening device through the raw water outlet 118 of the main chamber 111, where it is softened and then produced as soft water. The main chamber 111 and the main chamber inlet 116 can be disconnected by a valve core, allowing controllable water flow into the main chamber 111. The raw water outlet 118 in the main chamber 111 is always connected to the main chamber 111, meaning that raw water in the main chamber 111 can enter the softening device through the raw water outlet 118. Softened water in the softening device then flows into the secondary chamber 112 through the soft water channel and is discharged through the water inlet 119 in the secondary chamber 112 for use by the user. That is, water in the auxiliary chamber 112 can enter the water channel through the water inlet 119 and then be discharged from the water outlet 114 for use by the user. The auxiliary chamber 112 and the water inlet 119 are always connected, allowing the user to use water at any time. The water in the auxiliary chamber 112 is kept available for use by the user under various flow paths, which helps to improve the flow path selectivity of the valve housing 110.

[0065] The valve housing 110 includes a first shell portion 1140, a second shell portion 1141 and a third shell portion 1142. A raw water channel is formed in the first shell portion 1140, a water channel is formed in the second shell portion 1141, and the third shell portion 1142 forms a main cavity 111 and a secondary cavity 112. The third shell portion 1142 also forms a raw water outlet 118 and a water inlet 119. The raw water outlet 118 and the water inlet 119 are located on the same side of the third shell portion 1142 to facilitate the installation of the softening device.

[0066] The first shell portion 1140 , the second shell portion 1141 , and the third shell portion 1142 are fixed to form an integrated valve housing 110 , thereby simplifying the structure of the valve housing 110 .

[0067] The first shell portion 1140 and the second shell portion 1141 are arranged in parallel, that is, the raw water channel and the water use channel are arranged in parallel, and the third shell portion 1142 is at the first end of the first shell portion 1140 and the second shell portion 1141. Optionally, the main cavity 111 and the secondary cavity 112 are arranged in parallel, and the main cavity 111 and the first shell portion 1140 are located on the same side (right side), and the secondary cavity 112 and the second shell portion 1141 are located on the same side (left side), and the structural distribution of the valve shell 110 is more reasonable.

[0068] The first end of the first shell portion 1140 (raw water channel) forms a raw water inlet 113, and the second end of the first shell portion 1140 (raw water channel) forms a main chamber inlet 116. Main chamber inlet 116 connects the raw water channel with the main chamber 111. The raw water channel and the main chamber 111 can be opened and closed by the main chamber inlet 116. For example, a main valve core can be provided between the main chamber 111 and the raw water channel. By providing a water inlet hole on the main valve core corresponding to the main chamber inlet 116, the connection and opening of the raw water channel and the main chamber 111 can be controlled. The third shell portion 1142 is provided with a communication channel for connecting the raw water channel with the auxiliary chamber 112. The communication channel can also be opened and closed by the main valve core, allowing the raw water channel to selectively inject raw water into the main chamber 111 or the auxiliary chamber 112. The end of the communication channel can be connected to the raw water channel. That is, the first shell portion 1140 has a communication port connected to the communication channel, and the communication port is provided corresponding to the main valve core.

[0069] A water outlet 114 is formed at the first end of the second shell portion 1141 (water channel). The second end of the second shell portion 1141 (water channel) is connected to a water inlet 119. Water inlet 119 is constantly connected to the auxiliary chamber 112, allowing water in the auxiliary chamber 112 to enter the water channel through water inlet 119 and then be discharged from water outlet 114. A secondary valve core may be installed between the auxiliary chamber 112 and the water channel. The secondary valve core includes a secondary movable valve disc and a secondary static valve disc that can rotate relative to each other. A soft water outlet 1112 is defined in the valve housing 110. This soft water outlet 1112 corresponds to and is connected to the softening connection hole of the secondary static valve disc. Furthermore, the soft water inlet 1111 is connected to the raw water outlet 118 via a softening device. Thus, by switching the position of the secondary movable valve disc, the softening device and other flow paths within the auxiliary chamber 112 can be switched on and off. Exemplarily, the softening device injects water into the auxiliary chamber 112 through the soft water channel, part of the water is discharged through the water inlet 119 in the auxiliary chamber 112, and the other part of the water flows out from other flow paths of the auxiliary valve core to achieve other functions and complete other modes without affecting the user's water use, such as water injection mode or salt absorption mode.

[0070] 1 and 3 , the third shell 1142 is formed with a main tank body and a sub-tank body. The third shell 1142 is connected to a cover 1130, which seals the main tank body and the sub-tank body to form a main cavity 111 and a sub-cavity 112. The main tank body and the sub-tank body may share a cover 1130, or each of the main tank body and the sub-tank body may be provided with a cover 1130. For example, if the main tank body and the sub-tank body share the cover 1130, the cover 1130 may be used to install a microswitch, which is used to detect the position of the main valve core and the sub-valve core. The main valve motor and the sub-valve motor are separated from the main cavity 111 and the sub-cavity 112 and the outside by the cover 1130. The shape of the cover 1130 is not limited and may be a plate-like structure with a simple structure, or a box-like structure to protect the motor. In some cases, the cover body 1130 and the cover body 1131 cooperate to form a closed installation space, which encloses the motor (at least one of the main valve motor and the auxiliary valve motor) in the installation space to protect the motor.

[0071] As shown in Figure 3 , the third shell portion 1142 is further provided with a raw water outlet 118 and a water inlet 119. The raw water outlet 118 is located within the main chamber 111 to inject the raw water in the main chamber 111 into the softening device. The water inlet 119 is located within the secondary chamber 112 to discharge the water in the secondary chamber 112 through the water inlet 119 into the water channel for user use. In one embodiment, the raw water outlet 118 is located on the bottom wall of the main chamber 111 to facilitate the flow of raw water in the main chamber 111 into the raw water outlet 118 and prevent the residual raw water in the main chamber 111. In another embodiment, the water inlet 119 is located on the bottom wall of the secondary chamber 112 to facilitate the flow of water in the secondary chamber 112 into the water channel for user use and prevent the residual water in the secondary chamber 112.

[0072] The third shell portion 1142 is provided with a softening connection portion 1143, which is used to connect a softening device. The softening device can be connected to the valve housing 110 by at least one of a threaded connection, a snap-on connection, a plug-in connection, a fastener connection, and the like. The valve housing 110 is provided with an external thread, and the softening device is provided with an internal thread. The softening device is screwed to the valve housing 110 via a threaded structure, which facilitates assembly and disassembly. It should be noted that raw water can be understood as water introduced into the raw water inlet 113 of the softening valve, such as tap water. The hardness of the raw water is greater than that of soft water. The softening device includes a resin tank. The resin in the resin tank softens the raw water and obtains soft water. Of course, the softening device can also be other structures that can be used to soften raw water.

[0073] In some embodiments, the valve housing 110 is provided with a communicating inlet and a communicating outlet 1113, and a communicating channel is formed between the communicating inlet and the communicating outlet 1113; wherein, the communicating inlet and the main chamber inlet 116 can be connected and disconnected, and the communicating outlet 1113 and the secondary chamber 112 are always connected; or, the communicating inlet and the raw water inlet 113 are always connected, and the communicating outlet 1113 and the secondary chamber 112 can be connected and disconnected.

[0074] For example, the communication inlet and main chamber inlet 116 are connected and disconnected via a main valve core, allowing raw water in the raw water channel to selectively flow into the communication channel, namely, into the secondary chamber 112, to achieve different functions. Simultaneously, the communication outlet 1113 is constantly connected to the secondary chamber 112, with the communication channel being connected and disconnected by opening and closing the communication inlet, simplifying the structure. In other embodiments, the communication inlet and raw water inlet 113 are constantly connected, while the communication outlet 1113 and the secondary chamber 112 are connectable and disconnectable. In other words, a valve is provided at the communication outlet 1113 to connect and disconnect the communication channel.

[0075] Referring to Figures 3, 5, and 6, in some embodiments, the valve housing 110 includes a connection port 1114. A water inlet passage is formed between the connection port 1114 and the raw water outlet 118, and the connection port 1114 is used to connect to the softening device. As will be appreciated, to facilitate connection of the raw water outlet 118 to the softening device, the valve housing 110 is provided with the connection port 1114 at the location corresponding to the softening device. A water inlet passage is formed between the connection port 1114 and the raw water outlet 118, allowing raw water in the main chamber 111 to enter the raw water outlet 118 and then flow into the softening device through the water inlet passage. As will be appreciated, if water is directly discharged to the softening device through the raw water outlet 118, the location of the raw water outlet 118 may be inconvenient for installing the softening device, or may not be compatible with other flow channels. Therefore, the water inlet passage may be strip-shaped or arc-shaped, allowing the main chamber 111 to connect to the location of the valve housing 110 connected to the softening device through the water inlet passage, facilitating flow channel design.

[0076] 5 and 6 , in some embodiments, the communication channel, the soft water channel, the water channel, and the water inlet channel are located on the same side of the valve housing 110. As will be appreciated, disposing multiple channels on the same side of the valve housing 110 results in a compact structure, which reduces the overall volume of the valve housing 110 and facilitates overall mold making of the valve housing 110, thereby reducing the number of mold making steps.

[0077] In some embodiments, the communication channel and the soft water channel are located between the water inlet channel and the water channel. It is understood that the water inlet channel and the water channel are located on both sides, so that the water inlet channel connects to the main chamber 111 and the water channel connects to the secondary chamber 112. At the same time, the communication channel is located between the water inlet channel and the water channel, so that it can connect the raw water channel and the secondary chamber 112 in a shorter distance. The soft water channel is located between the water inlet channel and the water channel, which is compact and convenient for connecting the softening device and the secondary chamber 112.

[0078] 5 and 6, in some embodiments, the valve housing 110 includes a housing body 1144 and a softening connection portion 1143, the housing body 1144 is provided with a raw water inlet 113, a main chamber inlet 116, a main chamber 111, a secondary chamber 112, a soft water outlet 1112, a water outlet 114, a water inlet 119 and a raw water outlet 118, the housing body 1144 is provided with a water inlet groove 1120 connected to the raw water outlet 118, a connecting groove 1121 connecting the secondary chamber 112 and the raw water inlet 113, a soft water groove 1122 connected to the soft water outlet 1112, and a connecting groove 1123 connected to the water inlet 119. The softening connection part 1143 is sealed with the shell body 1144, and the softening connection part 1143 is covered on the connecting groove 1121 to form a connecting channel; the softening connection part 1143 is covered on the water outlet groove 1123 to form a water channel, and the softening connection part 1143 is also provided with a connecting port 1114, and the connecting port 1114 is connected to the water inlet groove 1120 to form a water inlet channel, and the softening connection part 1143 is also provided with a soft water inlet 1111, and the soft water inlet 1111 is connected to the soft water groove 1122 to form a soft water channel.

[0079] In this embodiment, the softening connection portion 1143 can be sealed to the shell body 1144 by welding, bonding, or threading to prevent water leakage. Meanwhile, a water inlet groove 1120, a connecting groove 1121, a soft water groove 1122, and a water outlet groove 1123 are correspondingly provided on one side of the shell body 1144. When the softening connection portion 1143 is connected to the shell body 1144, it seals over the water inlet groove 1120, the connecting groove 1121, the soft water groove 1122, and the water outlet groove 1123, thereby sequentially forming a water inlet channel, a connecting channel, a soft water channel, and a water outlet channel. This facilitates the mold opening of the shell body 1144 and its connection to the softening connection portion 1143 to form the various channels. It is understood that the softening connection portion 1143 completely covers the communicating groove 1121 and the water outlet groove 1123 to prevent water leakage, and the softening connection portion 1143 partially closes the notch of the water inlet groove 1120 so that the shape of the notch of the water inlet groove 1120 matches the shape of the connecting port 1114, thereby facilitating the water in the water inlet channel to enter the softening device connected to the softening connection portion 1143 through the connecting port 1114. At the same time, the softening connection portion 1143 partially closes the notch of the soft water groove 1122 so that the shape of the notch of the soft water groove 1122 matches the shape of the soft water inlet 1111, and the soft water in the softening device can enter the soft water channel through the soft water inlet 1111, and then enter the sub-cavity 112 through the soft water channel.

[0080] As shown in FIG5 , in some embodiments, the openings of the communication groove 1121, the water outlet groove 1123, the water inlet groove 1120, and the softening water groove 1122 are coplanar. Thus, the outer surface of the shell body 1144 corresponding to the softening connection portion 1143 is flush, facilitating connection between the shell body 1144 and the softening connection portion 1143.

[0081] Please refer to Figures 1 and 4. In some embodiments, the valve housing 110 is further provided with a drain channel 1115. At least one of the main chamber 111 and the auxiliary chamber 112 can be connected to and disconnected from the drain channel 1115. The drain channel 1115 is located on the side of the valve housing 110 that is away from the connecting channel, the soft water channel, the water use channel and the water inlet channel.

[0082] The valve housing 110 is provided with at least one of a first drain opening and a second drain opening. The first drain opening corresponds to and communicates with the main chamber 111, and the second drain opening corresponds to and communicates with the secondary chamber 112. A drain groove 1116 is further formed on the outer wall of the valve housing 110. The drain groove 1116 communicates with at least one of the first drain opening and the second drain opening. A first cover is provided on the drain groove 1116, so that the first cover and the drain groove 1116 form a drain passage 1115. Optionally, the drain passage 1115 is located on a side of the valve housing 110 that is away from the connecting passage, the soft water passage, the water channel, and the water inlet passage, thereby facilitating the flow path design of the connecting passage, the soft water passage, the water channel, and the water inlet passage without affecting draining.

[0083] The valve housing 110 (such as the third housing portion 1142) is provided with at least one of a first drain opening and a second drain opening. The first drain opening corresponds to and communicates with the main chamber 111, through which sewage can be discharged. The second drain opening corresponds to and communicates with the secondary chamber 112, through which sewage can be discharged. Optionally, the valve housing 110 is further provided with a drain channel 1115, which communicates with at least one of the first drain opening and the second drain opening. The end of the drain channel 1115 forms a drain outlet 115, allowing sewage to be discharged along the drain outlet 115, thereby simplifying the drain piping. A flow limiting member is provided within the drain channel 1115 to adjust the drain flow rate. The drain channel 1115 is located above the valve housing 110. Illustratively, a drain groove 1116 is opened on the outer wall of the valve housing 110 , and the drain groove 1116 is sealed by a first cover to form a drain channel 1115 , and a drain port 115 is opened at the end of the drain channel 1115 for draining sewage.

[0084] 1 and 3 , in some embodiments, the valve housing 110 further includes a salt absorption channel, a first end of the salt absorption channel being connected to a soft water inlet 1111 , a second end of the salt absorption channel being connected to the auxiliary cavity 112 , and a side wall of the salt absorption channel being connected to a salt box connection channel 1110 .

[0085] As will be appreciated, both ends of the salt absorption channel are connected to the secondary chamber 112, allowing water within the secondary chamber 112 to flow into the salt absorption channel. Furthermore, the sidewall of the salt absorption channel is connected to a salt tank connection channel 1110, facilitating communication with the salt tank. Thus, when a secondary valve core is installed within the secondary chamber 112, water entering the salt absorption channel can be injected into the salt tank, forming brine. Furthermore, the salt absorption channel may also be equipped with a venturi tube, which draws brine from the salt tank into the secondary valve core of the secondary chamber 112, allowing the brine to flow to the softening device for cleaning.

[0086] In some embodiments, the salt absorption channel includes an installation channel 1117 and a filtering channel 1118. The first end of the installation channel 1117 can be connected and disconnected to the soft water inlet 1111. The side wall of the installation channel 1117 is connected to the salt box connecting channel 1110. The first end of the filtering channel 1118 is connected to the sub-cavity 112. The second end of the installation channel 1117 and the second end of the filtering channel 1118 are connected through the end cover 170. An ejector is installed in the installation channel 1117.

[0087] The valve housing 110 also has a mounting channel 1117 for mounting an ejector. A salt tank connection channel 1110 is defined in the sidewall of the mounting channel 1117 for communication with the salt tank. The first end of the mounting channel 1117 communicates with the secondary chamber 112. The mounting channel 1117 extends away from the third housing portion 1142 to facilitate installation of the ejector. The valve housing 110 also has an opening corresponding to the ejector's suction port. This opening connects the valve housing 110 to the salt intake and water injection connector.

[0088] The valve housing 110 is further provided with a filter channel 1118, which communicates with the auxiliary chamber 112 and the jet inlet of the ejector. The filter channel 1118 extends along the salt absorption and water injection port, away from the third housing portion 1142. The extension direction of the filter channel 1118 is the same as the extension direction of the installation channel 1117. For example, the filter channel 1118 and the installation channel 1117 are arranged vertically. The valve housing 110 is connected to an end cap 170, which is disposed at the ends of the filter channel 1118 and the installation channel 1117. A connecting groove is formed in the end cap 170, connecting the filter channel 1118 and the installation channel 1117.

[0089] 1 and 5 , in some embodiments, a flow channel for installing a flow meter 150 is opened on the side wall of the water channel, and a flow stabilizing net 180 is provided between the flow channel and the water inlet 119 .

[0090] For example, by providing a flow meter 150 within the flow channel, when in the water production state, tap water enters the valve housing 110 from the raw water channel and flows into the main chamber 111. The main valve core and the auxiliary valve core can then control the flow path within the valve housing 110 to switch accordingly, allowing soft water to flow out of the water channel. The detection portion of the flow meter 150 is located within the water channel. The flow meter 150 can detect the water flowing out of the water channel, thereby achieving real-time detection of the soft water output and timely and accurate monitoring of the soft water production capacity of the water softening equipment connected to the valve housing 110. For example, the main valve core includes an active valve disc and a main static valve disc. The active valve disc can rotate relative to the main static valve disc to achieve regulation of each flow channel. At the same time, the auxiliary valve core includes an auxiliary active valve disc and an auxiliary static valve disc. The auxiliary active valve disc can rotate relative to the auxiliary static valve disc to achieve regulation of each flow channel. In addition, a flow stabilizing net 180 is provided between the flow channel and the water inlet 119 to stabilize the water flowing out of the water channel, facilitating flow detection by the flow meter 150. As can be understood, the flow stabilizing net 180 is a mesh structure with multiple small holes to improve the stability of the water flow.

[0091] In some embodiments, the raw water channel and the water channel are connected or disconnected via a bypass valve 140 .

[0092] When the bypass valve 140 connects the raw water channel and the water channel, under the action of the water inlet pressure of the raw water inlet 113 of the raw water channel, the raw water in the raw water channel can flow to the water channel, so as to adjust the water hardness of the water outlet 114 by introducing raw water into the water channel.

[0093] A bypass valve 140 is connected between the raw water channel and the water channel. This bypass valve 140 allows for flexible installation, helping to reduce the size of the water softener. In some cases, even when the water softener is not producing water, bypass valve 140 can be used to connect the raw water channel and the water channel, allowing users to obtain raw water from the water outlet 114.

[0094] The soft water valve provided according to the embodiment of the present application includes the above-mentioned valve housing 110 , a main valve core and a secondary valve core. The main valve core is arranged in a main cavity 111 ; the secondary valve core is arranged in a secondary cavity 112 .

[0095] Main chamber 111 is primarily used for softening water. When backwashing, slow salt absorption washing, or water injection are required, the main valve core in main chamber 111 controls the closure of raw water inlet 113 and main chamber 111. A secondary valve core in secondary chamber 112 adjusts the associated flow paths to achieve the functions corresponding to each state. Optionally, a corresponding main valve core can be provided in main chamber 111 to control different flow paths. This main valve core can be a valve plate assembly or other valve core.

[0096] For example, the main chamber 111 and the main valve core cooperate to mainly produce water normally. Since the raw water flow rate demand in the water production mode is relatively large, the main valve core forms a water production flow channel. The main chamber 111 is always connected to the raw water outlet 118, and the large opening structure of the main valve core is used to produce water. At this time, the soft water discharged from the softening device can be introduced into the sub-chamber 112. Since the water softener has other functions in other states, such as cleaning, water injection, salt absorption and slow washing, etc., these states have relatively small requirements for the flow rate of raw water, so the sub-valve core can form multiple flow channels. The flow channels formed by the sub-valve core require a smaller flow area. These states are mainly controlled by the sub-chamber 112 and the sub-valve core. At the same time, the main chamber 111 and the main valve core cooperate with these regeneration processes to discharge sewage. And when the sub-valve core is working, the water in the sub-chamber 112 can also be discharged to the water channel through the water inlet 119 for user use, which improves the user's water convenience. Among them, when the main cavity 111 and the auxiliary cavity 112 have the same shape, the outer contours of the main valve core and the auxiliary valve core have the same size, and the flow area of ​​the flow channel formed by the auxiliary cavity 112 and the auxiliary valve core is smaller than the flow area of ​​the water-making flow channel formed by the main cavity 111 and the main valve core.

[0097] The soft water valve according to the embodiment of the present application includes the valve housing 110 , and thus has all the technical effects of the valve housing 110 , which will not be described in detail here.

[0098] The water softener provided according to the embodiment of the present application includes a softening device and the above-mentioned softening valve, and the softening device connects the raw water outlet 118 and the water inlet 119.

[0099] The softening device is located below the valve housing 110 of the water softener, and the space layout inside the water softener is reasonable. The softening device can be a resin tank, and the resin material in the resin tank can be regenerated as needed to ensure the softening effect.

[0100] The softening connection 1143 of the water softener valve is provided with a threaded hole, which connects the resin tank to the interior of the water softener valve. Currently, most resin tank inlets use a standard 2.5-inch threaded hole, so the threaded hole of the water softener valve matches this. The threaded portion mainly consists of two openings: a central hole, which connects to the water outlet pipe inside the resin tank. The outer periphery of the central hole is provided with an outlet for feeding raw water from the water softener valve into the resin tank, which contains resin. After being filtered by the resin, the tap water in the resin tank flows through the central hole (i.e., the soft water outlet of the resin tank) to the water inlet 119 of the water softener valve, and finally flows out of the water outlet 114 of the water softener valve for user use.

[0101] The water softener also includes a salt box, which is connected to the water softening valve through a salt box connection port 1114. The salt box can be arranged in parallel with the softening device. The position of the salt box is flexible and can be set according to needs.

[0102] The softening valve is mounted on the resin tank, with a salt tank located next to it. The salt tank connection port 1114 of the softening valve is connected to the salt tank via a hose. During salt absorption, the ejector draws salt water from the salt tank into the softening valve. When filling the salt tank, water from the softening valve is also injected into the salt tank via this hose.

[0103] By using the water softener valve in the above embodiment, the softening device, salt tank, and other components within the water softener can be replaced to increase the softened water flow rate. Of course, after replacing the water softener valve, the structure and shape of other components within the water softener can also be adjusted accordingly.

[0104] There are two 1-inch pipe interfaces on the front of the entire shell of the water softener, namely the water inlet pipe and the water outlet pipe. The water inlet pipe is connected to the external tap water, and is connected to the internal space of the valve shell 110 through the raw water inlet 113 through the water inlet pipe, so that the raw water flows into the inside of the soft water valve. The soft water flowing out of the soft water valve is connected to the water outlet pipe through the water outlet 114 for user use.

[0105] The embodiments of this application can adjust the water flow path of a water softener in different states. The entire valve head is compact and uses a ceramic design, which provides high reliability and stable operation. The multifunctional water softener valve adopts a two-chamber design, a simple and ingenious valve body flow path structure, and a strong overall appearance structure, which helps to reduce the volume.

[0106] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are intended only to illustrate the present application and are not intended to limit the present application. Although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that various combinations, modifications, or equivalent substitutions of the technical solutions of the present application do not depart from the scope of the technical solutions of the present application and should be encompassed by the claims of the present application.

Claims

1. A valve housing, comprising: A raw water inlet and a main cavity inlet, wherein a raw water channel is formed between the raw water inlet and the main cavity inlet; A main chamber, wherein the main chamber is communicable with the main chamber inlet and the main chamber is always communicated with the raw water outlet; A secondary chamber, wherein the secondary chamber can be connected to the raw water inlet through a connecting passage; A soft water inlet and a soft water outlet, a soft water channel is formed between the soft water inlet and the soft water outlet, the soft water outlet is communicated with the secondary cavity, and the soft water inlet and the raw water outlet can be communicated with each other through a softening device; A water outlet and a water inlet are provided, a water channel is formed between the water outlet and the water inlet, and the water inlet is always connected with the auxiliary cavity.

2. The valve housing according to claim 1, wherein: The valve housing is provided with a communication inlet and a communication outlet, and the communication passage is formed between the communication inlet and the communication outlet; The communicating inlet is disconnectable with the main chamber inlet, and the communicating outlet is always connected with the auxiliary chamber; or the communicating inlet is always connected with the raw water inlet, and the communicating outlet is disconnectable with the auxiliary chamber.

3. The valve housing according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The valve housing comprises a connecting port, a water inlet channel is formed between the connecting port and the raw water outlet, and the connecting port is used to communicate with the softening device.

4. The valve housing according to claim 3, wherein: The communication channel, the soft water channel, the water-using channel and the water inlet channel are located on the same side of the valve housing.

5. The valve housing according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The communication channel and the soft water channel are located between the water inlet channel and the water use channel.

6. The valve housing according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: The valve housing comprises: The shell body is provided with the raw water inlet, the main cavity inlet, the main cavity, the auxiliary cavity, the soft water outlet, the water outlet, the water inlet and the raw water outlet, and the shell body is provided with a water inlet groove communicating with the raw water outlet, a connecting groove communicating with the auxiliary cavity and the raw water inlet, a soft water groove communicating with the soft water outlet, and a water outlet groove communicating with the water inlet and the water outlet; A softening connection part, the softening connection part is sealingly connected to the shell body, the softening connection part is sealed on the connecting groove to form the connecting channel; the softening connection part is sealed on the water outlet groove to form the water channel, the softening connection part is also provided with the connecting port, the connecting port is connected to the water inlet groove to form the water inlet channel, the softening connection part is also provided with the soft water inlet, the soft water inlet is connected to the soft water groove to form the soft water channel.

7. The valve housing according to claim 6, wherein: The notch surfaces of the connecting groove, the water outlet groove, the water inlet groove and the soft water groove are coplanar.

8. The valve housing according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein: The valve housing is also provided with a sewage discharge channel, and at least one of the main chamber and the auxiliary chamber can be connected to and disconnected from the sewage discharge channel. The sewage discharge channel is located on a side of the valve housing facing away from the connecting channel, the soft water channel, the water use channel and the water inlet channel.

9. The valve housing according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The valve housing further comprises a salt absorption channel, a first end of the salt absorption channel can be connected to the soft water inlet, a second end of the salt absorption channel can be connected to the auxiliary cavity, and a side wall of the salt absorption channel is connected to a salt box connection channel.

10. The valve housing according to claim 9, wherein: The salt absorption channel includes an installation channel and a filtering channel. The first end of the installation channel can be disconnected from the soft water inlet. The side wall of the installation channel is connected to the salt box connecting channel. The first end of the filtering channel is connected to the auxiliary cavity. The second end of the installation channel and the second end of the filtering channel are connected through an end cover. The installation channel is used to install an ejector.

11. The valve housing according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The raw water outlet is located at the bottom wall of the main chamber; And / or, the water inlet is located on the bottom wall of the sub-cavity.

12. The valve housing according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: A flow channel for installing a flow meter is provided on the side wall of the water channel, and a flow stabilizing net is provided between the flow channel and the water inlet.

13. The valve housing according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The raw water channel and the water use channel are connected or disconnected via a bypass valve.

14. The valve housing according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The raw water channel and the water use channel are arranged in parallel; And / or, the main cavity and the auxiliary cavity are arranged in parallel.

15. A soft water valve, comprising: The valve housing according to any one of claims 1 to 14; A main valve core, the main valve core is arranged in the main cavity; A secondary valve core is arranged in the secondary cavity.

16. A water softener, comprising a softening device and the softening valve according to claim 15, wherein the softening device is connected to the raw water outlet and the soft water inlet.

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