Water heater
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- WUHAN HAIER WATER HEATER
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-09
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-18
AI Technical Summary
In existing storage-type electric water heaters, the replacement process for the electronic anode battery is cumbersome, requires professional personnel, and has poor maintenance convenience.
An installation section is provided on the water heater's casing, allowing the power supply module to be detachably installed externally. This installation section enables convenient replacement of the power supply module, including a protective casing and a mounting groove structure, simplifying the battery replacement process.
It enables external disassembly and installation of the power supply module, improving the convenience of maintenance operations. Users can replace the battery themselves without the need for professional tools or personnel.
Smart Images

Figure CN2025141125_18062026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
water heater Technical Field
[0001] This invention belongs to the field of electrical equipment technology, and in particular relates to a water heater. Background Technology
[0002] Currently, water heaters are common household appliances. Storage-type electric water heaters, equipped with a water tank, are increasingly popular due to their large water output and stable water temperature. A typical storage-type electric water heater usually consists of a water tank, an electric heating element, and an electronic control board. To protect the inner tank from corrosion, the water tank is typically treated with anti-corrosion measures, usually including adding a magnesium rod or an external electron anode.
[0003] The use of an external electronic anode for corrosion protection of the inner tank avoids the scale buildup that can occur with magnesium rods. In practical use, the external electronic anode requires power. Chinese Patent Publication No. CN 220707718U discloses an anti-corrosion device and water heater for electric water heaters, which uses a battery to power the electronic anode. Technical issues
[0004] However, in actual use, because the battery is installed inside the outer shell within the inner liner, when the battery becomes low on power after prolonged use and needs replacement, the access cover of the electrical compartment must be opened to remove and replace the battery. This structural design typically requires professional repair personnel to replace the battery, and the process is cumbersome, resulting in poor maintenance convenience. Therefore, how to design a technology that facilitates battery replacement and improves maintenance convenience is the technical problem this invention aims to solve. Technical solutions
[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a water heater that allows for easy replacement of the battery, thereby improving the convenience of maintenance.
[0006] To achieve the above-mentioned objectives, the present invention employs the following technical solution:
[0007] This invention proposes a water heater, comprising:
[0008] A water tank, the water tank comprising a tank shell and an inner liner, the inner liner being disposed within the tank shell;
[0009] An electronic anode, wherein the electronic anode is disposed in the inner liner;
[0010] The housing is provided with a mounting part, which is configured to detachably mount a power supply module for supplying power to the electronic anode.
[0011] In some embodiments of this application, the power supply module includes a battery and a protective cover, the protective cover being detachably disposed on the mounting portion, a battery cavity being formed between the protective cover and the mounting portion, and the battery being located in the battery cavity.
[0012] In some embodiments of this application, the power supply module includes a battery and a protective casing, wherein a battery cavity is formed in the protective casing, and the battery is located in the battery cavity;
[0013] The protective shell is detachably mounted on the mounting part.
[0014] In some embodiments of this application, the mounting part is provided with a mounting groove, and the mounting groove is provided with an insertion hole and a threaded hole;
[0015] The protective shell is provided with a first tongue and a fixing hole. The protective shell is disposed in the mounting groove. The first tongue is inserted into the insertion hole. The screw passes through the fixing hole and is threaded into the threaded hole.
[0016] In some embodiments of this application, the protective shell includes a first shell and a second shell, the first shell and the second shell being detachably connected together, and the battery being located between the first shell and the second shell.
[0017] In some embodiments of this application, protrusions are provided on both sides of the first housing, and a first slot is provided at the first end of the protrusion;
[0018] The second housing has snap-fit protrusions on both sides, which snap into the first slots on the corresponding sides.
[0019] In some embodiments of this application, limiting protrusions are further provided on both sides of the second housing, and the limiting protrusions abut against the second end of the protrusion portion;
[0020] The first end and the second end of the protrusion are arranged facing away from each other.
[0021] In some embodiments of this application, the protective shell includes a sleeve and an end cap. One end of the sleeve is a closed structure, and the other end of the sleeve is an open structure. The battery is inserted into the sleeve through the open structure of the sleeve, and the end cap is detachably mounted on the open structure of the sleeve.
[0022] In some embodiments of this application, the protective shell is further provided with a first wiring hole, through which the wires connected to the battery pass and are electrically connected to the electronic anode.
[0023] In some embodiments of this application, the mounting part is further provided with a second wiring hole; a connecting cable is further provided between the shell and the inner liner, the connecting cable is electrically connected to the electron anode, and a first wiring plug is provided at the end of the connecting cable that passes through the second wiring hole and extends to the outside of the shell;
[0024] The wires connected to the battery are provided with a second connector, and the first connector and the second connector are connected together.
[0025] In some embodiments of this application, a shield is also provided on the housing, the shield being detachably disposed on the housing and covering the front side of the mounting portion.
[0026] In some embodiments of this application, the electronic anode includes:
[0027] Electrode rod;
[0028] A conductive rod, wherein the electrode rod is electrically connected to the conductive rod;
[0029] An insulating mounting part, wherein a fixed connection part is provided at the first end of the insulating mounting part, and the fixed connection part is configured to seal the insulating mounting part on the inner liner;
[0030] The insulating mounting portion is formed on the electrode rod and the conductive rod, and the connection portion of the electrode rod and the conductive rod is wrapped inside the insulating mounting portion;
[0031] The conductive rod extends to the outside of the first end of the insulating mounting portion, and the electrode rod extends to the outside of the second end of the insulating mounting portion, with the first end and the second end arranged opposite to each other;
[0032] A first sealing ring is also fitted onto the first end of the insulating mounting portion, and the first sealing ring is configured to seal the connection between the conductive rod and the first end of the insulating mounting portion.
[0033] In some embodiments of this application, the conductive rod extending to the outer end of the insulating mounting portion is further provided with a first threaded section, and a locking nut is provided on the first threaded section. The locking nut is configured to deform the first sealing ring in the tightened state to seal the connection between the conductive rod and the first end of the insulating mounting portion.
[0034] In some embodiments of this application, the end face of the first end of the insulating mounting portion is provided with an annular groove, the annular groove is arranged around the outer periphery of the conductive rod, and the first sealing ring is located in the annular groove;
[0035] The locking nut presses the first sealing ring into the annular groove.
[0036] In some embodiments of this application, a washer is also fitted on the first threaded section, the edge of the washer is provided with a flange structure, the locking nut presses the washer to the end face of the first end of the insulating mounting part, the first sealing ring is pressed between the end face of the first end of the insulating mounting part and the washer, and the flange structure is wrapped around the outside of the first sealing ring.
[0037] In some embodiments of this application, the conductive rod extending to the outer end of the insulating mounting portion is further provided with a wiring terminal.
[0038] In some embodiments of this application, the outer surface of the conductive rod is provided with a plurality of annular ribs arranged side by side, the annular ribs being located within the insulating mounting portion.
[0039] In some embodiments of this application, the outer surface of the conductive rod is provided with a plurality of annular grooves arranged side by side, the annular grooves being located within the insulating mounting portion.
[0040] In some embodiments of this application, a second sealing ring is provided on the fixed connection portion, and the second sealing ring is configured to seal the connection between the insulating mounting portion and the inner liner.
[0041] In some embodiments of this application, the fixed connection portion includes a sealing portion and a second threaded section, wherein the outer circumferential dimension of the sealing portion is larger than the outer circumferential dimension of the second threaded section, and the second sealing ring is attached to the sealing portion. Beneficial effects
[0042] Compared with the prior art, the advantages and positive effects of the present invention are as follows: by setting a mounting part on the casing, the power supply module can be placed on the outside of the casing and assembled on the mounting part. The power supply module is then installed through the mounting part. During use, when the power supply module's stored power is depleted and needs to be replaced, the power supply module can be easily removed from the mounting part on the outside of the casing for replacement, thus facilitating the replacement of the battery in the water heater and improving the convenience of maintenance operations. Attached Figure Description
[0043] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of the water heater of the present invention;
[0044] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the water heater of the present invention;
[0045] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the installation part in one embodiment of the water heater of the present invention;
[0046] Figure 4 is a second schematic diagram of the installation part in one embodiment of the water heater of the present invention;
[0047] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the power supply module in Figure 1;
[0048] Figure 6 is an exploded view of the power supply module in Figure 5;
[0049] Figure 7 is a structural schematic diagram of another embodiment of the water heater of the present invention;
[0050] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the water heater of the present invention;
[0051] Figure 9 is an exploded view of the assembly of the shield, power supply module and mounting part in another embodiment of the water heater of the present invention;
[0052] Figure 10 is a magnified view of a portion of region A in Figure 9;
[0053] Figure 11 is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the mounting part in Figure 9;
[0054] Figure 12 is the second structural schematic diagram of the mounting part in Figure 9;
[0055] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the power supply module in Figure 9;
[0056] Figure 14 is an exploded view of the assembled shell in Figure 3;
[0057] Figure 15 is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the electronic anode in Figure 8;
[0058] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic anode in Figure 15;
[0059] Figure 17 is a magnified view of a portion of region M in Figure 16;
[0060] Figure 18 is a second schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic anode in Figure 8;
[0061] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic anode in Figure 17;
[0062] Figure 20 is a magnified view of region N in Figure 18;
[0063] Figure 21 is a schematic diagram of the insulating mounting base in Figure 15.
[0064] Figure label:
[0065] 1. Housing; 11. Mounting section; 12. First terminal block; 13. Shield; 14. First connector;
[0066] 111. Mounting groove; 112. First insertion hole; 113. Threaded hole; 114. Second wiring hole; 115. Second insertion hole; 116. Auxiliary positioning plate; 117. Overlapping mating part; 118. Snap-fit mating part; 119. Sliding groove; 110. Positioning part;
[0067] 2. Inner liner;
[0068] 3. Heating module;
[0069] 4. Power supply module; 41. Battery; 42. Protective casing; 43. Protective cover; 44. Mounting casing;
[0070] 411. Second connector; 421. First tongue; 422. Fixing hole; 423. First housing; 424. Second housing; 425. First wiring hole; 4231. Protrusion; 4232. First slot; 4241. Snap-fit protrusion; 4242. Limiting protrusion; 431. Second tongue; 432. Positioning mating part; 441. Cable outlet hole; 442. Mounting barrel; 443. Mounting cover; 444. Positioning post; 445. Overlapping part; 446. Snap-fit part; 447. Wire harness fixing part;
[0071] 5. Electronic anode; 51. Electrode rod; 52. Conductive rod; 53. Insulating mounting base; 54. First sealing ring; 55. Locking nut; 56. Washer; 57. Terminal block; 58. Second sealing ring;
[0072] 521. First threaded section; 522. Annular rib; 523. Annular groove; 531. Fixed connection part; 532. Annular groove; 5311. Sealing part; 5312. Second threaded section. The best embodiment of the present invention
[0073] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0074] It should be noted that in the description of this invention, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," which indicate directional or positional relationships, are based on the directional or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. These are merely for ease of description and do not indicate or imply that the device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation; therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.
[0075] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.
[0076] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.
[0077] The following disclosure provides many different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the invention. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples; such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. In addition, examples of various specific processes and materials are provided in this invention, but those skilled in the art will recognize the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.
[0078] An electric water heater is a type of water heater that uses electricity as its primary energy source. The high-temperature heat generated after the power is turned on directly heats the water stored in the water heater to produce hot water.
[0079] Electric water heaters typically consist of a water tank, an electric heating element, and an electronic control board. The water tank has a storage cavity to store water to be heated. The electric heating element is inserted into the storage cavity of the water tank. The electronic control board is used to control the electric heating element to operate by turning the power on and off, so that the water in the tank is heated to the set temperature.
[0080] For the water tank of an electric water heater, the tank generally consists of an outer shell and an inner tank, with an insulation layer between them. The outer shell is usually made of plastic to meet the requirements of aesthetic and diverse designs; the inner tank can be made of metal or plastic, depending on the needs.
[0081] In addition, the insulation layer formed between the outer shell and the inner liner is commonly made of materials such as asbestos, sponge, foam plastic, and polyurethane foam. In conventional technology, foaming is usually used to form the insulation layer in order to achieve good insulation effect.
[0082] For water tanks with metal inner liner, corrosion can easily occur inside due to water quality. Therefore, magnesium rods are installed on the water tank and inserted into the water storage cavity inside the tank.
[0083] Magnesium has the lowest electrochemical potential among metals and is physiologically non-toxic. Therefore, it is ideal for making magnesium rods to protect the inner liner. The size of the magnesium rod directly affects the duration and effectiveness of the protection; the larger the magnesium rod, the better the protection and the longer the protection time.
[0084] The water tank is also equipped with an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe. The inlet pipe is used to deliver cold water into the water storage cavity formed inside the water tank, while the hot water in the water storage cavity is output from the outlet pipe.
[0085] For electric heating components, electric heating methods such as electric heating wires, magnetic energy, or silicon tube heating can be used to heat the water stored in the water storage chamber.
[0086] The control board is used to receive detection signals from relevant sensors (such as water temperature sensors and flow sensors) and control the power supply to and from the electric heating components.
[0087] When the electric water heater is working, the electric control board controls the electric heating element to be powered on and heated. When the water temperature in the tank reaches the set value, the electric control board controls the electric heating element to be powered off.
[0088] Example 1, as shown in Figures 1-6, provides a water heater according to an embodiment of this application, including:
[0089] A water tank, the water tank comprising a tank shell 1 and an inner liner 2, the inner liner 2 being disposed in the tank shell 1;
[0090] Heating module 3, which is disposed inside the housing 1 and configured to heat the water in the inner liner 2;
[0091] An electronic anode is disposed in the inner liner 2;
[0092] Power supply module 4, configured to supply power to the electron anode;
[0093] The housing 1 is provided with a mounting part 11, and the power supply module 4 is detachably mounted on the mounting part 11.
[0094] Specifically, for the water heater, heating module 3 is used to heat the water stored in inner tank 2. The specific physical form of heating module 3 is determined according to the heating method of the water heater. For example, if the water heater is an electric water heater, the corresponding heating module can be an electric heating element; or if the water heater is a heat pump water heater, the corresponding heating module can be a heat exchange tube for the flow of heat exchange medium. Here, there are no restrictions on the specific physical form of heating module 3.
[0095] In order to perform current-induced corrosion protection on the inner tank 2, an electronic anode is installed on the inner tank 2. The electronic anode can be powered by the power supply module 4. The power supply module 4 has the function of storing electricity. In this way, even if the power supply of the water heater is interrupted, the power supply module 4 can continue to supply power to the electronic anode while it is supplying power to the electronic anode.
[0096] To facilitate timely replacement and maintenance of the power supply module 4, a mounting part 11 is provided on the enclosure 1. The mounting part 11 meets the installation requirements of the power supply module 4, thereby enabling the power supply module 4 to be assembled and used outside the enclosure 1. During later use, when it is necessary to replace or maintain the power supply module 4, it is not necessary to disassemble the enclosure 1; the power supply module 4 can be removed from the mounting part 11 to complete the replacement operation.
[0097] Furthermore, regarding the specific physical form of the mounting part 11, the mounting part 11 can be an integral structure with the housing 1, that is, a corresponding structure for mounting the power supply module 4 can be formed on the housing 1, such as a groove or a boss. Alternatively, the mounting part 11 and the housing 1 can be separate structures, and the mounting part 11 can be mounted on the housing 1 by means of snap-fit, screw fixing, etc. Here, the specific physical form of the mounting part 11 is not limited or described in detail.
[0098] In one embodiment, the power supply module 4 typically includes a battery 41 to meet the need for storing electrical energy. The battery 41 can store electrical energy to power the electron anode. During the sales process of the water heater, the battery 41 can be included with the complete water heater unit as needed; alternatively, the battery 41 can be sold without the water heater unit and purchased separately by the user or installed by after-sales personnel. No restrictions are placed on this.
[0099] In another embodiment, to facilitate the installation of the battery 41, the power supply module 4 further includes the battery 41, and a battery cavity is formed in the protective shell 42, with the battery 41 located in the battery cavity;
[0100] The protective shell 42 is detachably mounted on the mounting part 11.
[0101] Specifically, the power supply module 4 includes a protective shell 42, through which the battery 41 is installed independently, and through which the power supply module 4 is fixedly installed on the housing 1.
[0102] The mounting part 11 is provided with a mounting groove 111, and the mounting groove 111 is provided with an insertion hole and a threaded hole 113;
[0103] The protective shell 42 is provided with a first tongue 421 and a fixing hole 422. The protective shell 42 is disposed in the mounting groove 111. The first tongue 421 is inserted into the insertion hole. The screw passes through the fixing hole 422 and is threaded into the threaded hole 113.
[0104] Specifically, for easy disassembly and installation, a first tongue 421 and a fixing hole 422 can be provided on the protective shell 42. One end of the protective shell 42 is inserted into the insertion hole of the mounting part 11 through the first tongue 421 to complete the positioning; then, the other end of the protective shell 42 is threadedly fixed in the threaded hole 113 by passing a screw through the fixing hole 422.
[0105] In this way, a single screw can meet the requirements for fixing the power supply module 4, reducing the number of screws used and providing convenience for operation and maintenance.
[0106] In addition, the protective shell 42 includes a first shell 423 and a second shell 424, which are detachably connected together, and the battery 41 is located between the first shell 423 and the second shell 424.
[0107] Specifically, the protective shell 42 adopts a split design, which is assembled from the first shell 423 and the second shell 424, so that the battery 41 is installed between the first shell 423 and the second shell 424.
[0108] Furthermore, in order to facilitate the assembly of the first housing 423 and the second housing 424, the first housing 423 is provided with protrusions 4231 on both sides, and the first end of the protrusions 4231 is provided with a first slot 4232.
[0109] The second housing 424 has snap-fit protrusions 4241 on both sides, which snap into the first slots 4232 on the corresponding sides.
[0110] Specifically, during the replacement of battery 41, the snap-fit protrusion 4241 is pulled out of the first slot 4232 to separate the first housing 423 and the second housing 424. After replacing the new battery 41, the snap-fit protrusion 4241 is snapped into the first slot 4232 to achieve screwless assembly of the first housing 423 and the second housing 424.
[0111] Furthermore, the second housing 424 is provided with limiting protrusions 4242 on both sides, and the limiting protrusions 4242 abut against the second end of the protrusion 4231;
[0112] The first end and the second end of the protrusion 4231 are arranged facing away from each other.
[0113] Specifically, to improve the connection reliability between the first housing 423 and the second housing 424, a limiting protrusion 4242 is provided on the second housing 424, and the limiting protrusion 4242 is arranged at intervals with the snap-fit protrusion 4241. After the snap-fit protrusion 4241 is snapped into the first slot 4232, the limiting protrusion 4242 will abut against the end of the protrusion 4231 away from the first slot 4232, thereby preventing the snap-fit protrusion 4241 from disengaging from the first slot 4232.
[0114] In another embodiment, the protective casing 42 may further include a sleeve and an end cap, one end of the sleeve being a closed structure and the other end of the sleeve being an open structure, the battery 41 being inserted into the sleeve through the open structure of the sleeve, and the end cap being detachably mounted on the open structure of the sleeve.
[0115] Specifically, a sleeve can also be used to meet the installation and protection requirements of the battery 41. The battery 41 is inserted into the sleeve and protected by the end cap.
[0116] In one embodiment, to facilitate the lead wires of the battery 41, the protective shell 42 is also provided with a first wiring hole 425, through which the wires connected to the battery 41 pass and are electrically connected to the electronic anode.
[0117] Specifically, since the battery 41 is protected by the protective shell 42, the wires connected to the battery 41 will pass through the first wiring hole 425 from the protective shell 42, thereby satisfying the requirement for the wires to be electrically connected to the electron anode.
[0118] In another embodiment of this application, as shown in Figures 7-14, in order to facilitate the installation of the storage battery 41, the power supply module 4 further includes a protective cover 43. The protective cover 43 is detachably disposed on the mounting part 11, and a battery cavity is formed between the protective cover 43 and the mounting part 11, and the storage battery 41 is located in the battery cavity.
[0119] Specifically, the mounting section 11 has a corresponding space for directly mounting the battery 41. After the battery 41 is mounted on the mounting section 11, it is protected from the outside by a protective cover 43.
[0120] In this way, the battery 41 is located in the battery cavity formed between the protective cover 43 and the mounting part 11. The battery 41 will supply power to the electronic anode on the inner liner 2 so as to provide current anti-corrosion protection to the inner liner 2 through the electronic anode.
[0121] Since the battery 41 is installed in the battery cavity consisting of the protective cover 43 and the mounting part 11, when it is necessary to replace the maintenance power supply module 4, it is only necessary to remove the protective cover 43 from the mounting part 11, and the battery 41 can be easily removed from the mounting part 11.
[0122] In order to facilitate the pre-positioning and installation of the battery 41, a mounting groove 111 can be provided on the mounting part 11. In this way, the battery 41 is first placed into the mounting groove 111, and then the protective cover 43 is installed on the mounting part 11 to cover the mounting groove 111.
[0123] In one embodiment, in order to achieve the requirement of screwless installation and disassembly, and to make it easier for operators or users to disassemble later, the protective cover 43 can be installed on the mounting part 11 by means of insertion or snap-fit.
[0124] Specifically, in the insert method, the protective cover 43 is provided with a second tongue 431, and correspondingly, the mounting part 11 is provided with a second insertion hole 115. The second tongue 431 is inserted into the second insertion hole 115 to realize the insertion of the protective cover 43 onto the mounting part 11.
[0125] Specifically, during the assembly process, the second tongue 431 on the protective cover 43 can be inserted into the second socket 115 provided on the mounting part 11, and then the protective cover 43 is pushed so that the second tongue 431 is fully inserted into the second socket 115 to complete the insertion installation.
[0126] The mounting portion 11 is further provided with an auxiliary positioning plate 116, which extends to the outside of the housing 1. The auxiliary positioning plate 116 is arranged adjacent to one end of the protective cover 43 and is covered by the protective cover 43. The second tongue 431 of the protective cover 43 extends toward the auxiliary positioning plate 116. Specifically, during actual assembly, the end face of one end of the protective cover 43 will abut against the auxiliary positioning plate 116. This automatically positions the protective cover 43 relative to the mounting portion 11, allowing the second tongue 431 to align with the second insertion hole 115 and then accurately insert the second tongue 431 into the second insertion hole 115, facilitating quick and easy assembly of the protective cover 43.
[0127] In addition, in order to position the protective cover 43 after it is inserted into place and prevent it from falling off by itself, the mounting part 11 is also provided with a positioning part 110, and the side of the protective cover 43 is provided with a positioning mating part 432; after the protective cover 43 is inserted into place, the positioning part 110 is connected to the positioning mating part 432.
[0128] Specifically, during the insertion process of the protective cover 43, the second tongue 431 will be inserted into the second socket 115. After the protective cover 43 is inserted into place, the positioning part 110 and the positioning mating part 432 will be connected to prevent the protective cover 43 from moving away from the auxiliary positioning plate 116, thereby ensuring that the protective cover 43 is reliably installed in place.
[0129] The positioning part 110 and the positioning mating part 432 can have various structural forms. For example, the positioning part 110 can be a positioning block, and the positioning mating part 432 can be a positioning groove, so that the positioning block is stuck in the positioning groove; or, the positioning part 110 and the positioning mating part 432 can be positioning blocks, and after the protective cover 43 is installed in place, the positioning block on the mounting part 11 is arranged on the outside of the positioning block on the protective cover 43 to prevent the protective cover 43 from falling off.
[0130] In addition, to facilitate the installation of the protective cover 43, a sliding groove 119 is provided on the mounting part 11. The positioning part 110 and the second insertion hole 115 are provided in the sliding groove 119, and the two sides of the protective cover 43 are located in the sliding groove 119.
[0131] Specifically, when assembling the protective cover 43, after one end of the protective cover 43 is positioned by the auxiliary positioning plate 116, the two sides of the protective cover 43 are respectively placed in the corresponding sliding grooves 119. During the process of pushing the protective cover 43 so that the second tongue 431 is inserted into the second socket 115, the sliding groove 119 can guide the protective cover 43 so that the second tongue 431 can be accurately inserted into the second socket 115, thereby improving the ease of assembly.
[0132] In the snap-fit configuration, the protective cover 43 is provided with a first elastic claw, and correspondingly, the mounting part 11 is provided with a second slot. The first elastic claw engages in the second slot to snap the protective cover 43 onto the mounting part 11. Specifically, the protective cover 43 can be installed on the mounting part 11 using a snap-fit method. During assembly, the first elastic claw will engage with the second slot provided by the mounting part 11 to achieve quick assembly and disassembly of the protective cover 43.
[0133] In one embodiment, in order to further protect the battery, the power supply module 4 further includes a mounting shell 44, on which a wire outlet hole 441 is provided;
[0134] The battery 41 is disposed inside the mounting housing 44, and the guide of the battery 41 passes through the outlet hole 441. The mounting housing 44 is detachably disposed on the mounting part 11, and the protective cover 43 covers the outside of the mounting housing 44.
[0135] Specifically, the internal structure of the mounting housing 44 matches the external contour of the battery 41 so as to protect the battery 41 through the mounting housing 44. The wires of the battery 41 can be led out from the mounting housing 44 through the outlet hole 441, thereby meeting the requirements of external electrical connection.
[0136] Furthermore, in order to facilitate the assembly of the battery 41 into or removal from the mounting housing 44, the mounting housing 44 adopts a split structure, which includes a mounting bucket 442 and a mounting cover 443. The mounting cover 443 is detachably mounted on the mounting bucket 442, the battery 41 is inserted into the mounting bucket 442, and the mounting cover 443 covers the outside of the battery 41.
[0137] Specifically, the mounting cover 443 can be installed on the mounting bucket 442 by means of threaded connection or snap-fit connection, so as to achieve the use requirement of screwless insertion, and thus facilitate users or maintenance personnel to replace the battery 41 inside the mounting shell 44.
[0138] The mounting cover 443 may be provided with wiring holes to meet the requirements for the lead wires of the battery 41.
[0139] In addition, to facilitate the positioning of the mounting cover 443, the wiring holes on the mounting cover 443 can also serve to position the mounting cover 443. Specifically, the mounting cover 443 is snapped onto the mounting container 442 using a snap-fit method. The snap-fit structure adopts conventional claw and slot structures, which are not limited here. The mounting container 442 is provided with positioning posts 444, and the corresponding wiring holes are notches located on the edge of the mounting cover 443. During assembly, after the battery 41 is inserted into the mounting container 442, the battery 41's wires are directly snapped into the wiring holes through the notches. Then, the positioning posts 444 are inserted into the notches of the wiring holes to pre-position the mounting cover 443, allowing the mounting cover 443 to be accurately snapped onto the mounting container 442.
[0140] Furthermore, in order to allow the mounting shell 44 to be assembled onto the mounting part 11 without screws, one end of the mounting shell 44 is provided with an overlapping portion 445, and the other end of the mounting shell 44 is provided with a snap-fit portion 446; correspondingly, the mounting part 11 is provided with an overlapping mating portion 117 and a snap-fit mating portion 118; the overlapping portion 445 overlaps onto the overlapping mating portion 117, and the snap-fit portion 446 snaps onto the snap-fit mating portion 118.
[0141] Specifically, during the actual assembly process, after the battery 41 is installed inside the mounting housing 44 and the wires are electrically connected, one end of the mounting housing 44 overlaps the overlapping part 445 onto the overlapping mating part 117 of the mounting part 11. Then, the other end of the mounting housing 44 is snapped onto the snap-fit mating part 118 of the mounting part 11 via the snap-fit part 446, thereby assembling the mounting housing 44 onto the mounting part 11 and achieving a screwless design.
[0142] Specifically, regarding the physical manifestations of the overlapping portion 445 and the overlapping mating portion 117, the overlapping portion 445 can be an overlapping leg formed on the mounting cover 443, and correspondingly, the overlapping mating portion 117 can be an overlapping surface formed on the mounting portion 11. The overlapping leg can overlap on the overlapping surface to support one end of the mounting shell 44.
[0143] In addition, regarding the physical manifestations of the snap-fit part 446 and the snap-fit mating part 118, the snap-fit part 446 can be a claw formed on the end face of the mounting barrel 442. Correspondingly, the mounting part 11 is provided with a slot. After the mounting shell 44 overlaps with the overlapping mating part 117 of the mounting part 11 through the overlapping part 445, the claw is then snapped into the slot so that the mounting barrel 442 is snapped onto the mounting part 11.
[0144] In one embodiment, a connecting cable (not shown) is also provided between the shell 1 and the inner liner 2. The connecting cable is electrically connected to the electronic anode, and a first connector 14 is provided at the end of the connecting cable. Correspondingly, a second connector 411 is provided on the wire of the battery 41, and the first connector 14 and the second connector 411 are connected together.
[0145] The mounting bucket 442 is also provided with a wire harness fixing part 447, and the first wiring plug 14 and the second wiring plug 411 are disposed on the wire harness fixing part 447.
[0146] Specifically, in actual use, after the battery 41 is connected together through the first connector 14 and the second connector 411, the first connector 14 and the second connector 411 can be fixed by the wire harness fixing part 447, thereby improving the reliability of assembly and wiring.
[0147] The wire harness fixing part 447 can be manifested as a cable tie, a wire clip, or a buckle.
[0148] In another embodiment of this application, in order to meet the requirements of concealed wiring power supply of power supply module 4, a second wiring hole 114 is also provided on the mounting part 11; a connecting cable (not shown) is also provided between the housing 1 and the inner liner 2, the connecting cable is electrically connected to the electronic anode, and a first wiring plug 14 is provided at the end of the connecting cable that passes through the second wiring hole 114 and extends to the outside of the housing 1.
[0149] The wires connected to the battery 41 are provided with a second connector 411, and the first connector 14 and the second connector 411 are connected together.
[0150] Specifically, the housing 1 contains a connecting cable that can be directly or indirectly connected to the electron anode to supply electrical energy. The end of the connecting cable extending from the housing 1 through the second wiring hole 114 is equipped with a first connector 14. Correspondingly, a second connector 411 is connected to the lead wires of the battery 41. When replacing the battery 41, the second connector 411 on the battery 41 to be removed and maintained is separated from the first connector 14. Then, a new battery 41 is installed, and the first connector 14 and the second connector 411 are reconnected.
[0151] In order to facilitate the guidance and wiring of the wires on the battery 41, a wiring hole can be provided on the mounting cover 443, and a wire clip is also provided on the mounting cover 443 to fix the wires of the battery 41 leading out from the wiring hole.
[0152] In another embodiment, in order to improve the overall appearance of the water heater, a shield 13 is also provided on the housing 1. The shield 13 is detachably provided on the housing 1 and covers the front side of the mounting part 11.
[0153] Specifically, the shield 13 can be arranged on the front side of the mounting part 11 to shield the power supply module 4 installed on the mounting part 11, thereby optimizing the overall appearance of the water heater.
[0154] Example 2: Based on Example 1 above, the electronic anode is structurally improved as follows, as shown in Figures 15-21. The electronic anode 5 includes...
[0155] Electrode rod 51;
[0156] Conductive rod 52, the electrode rod 51 is electrically connected to the conductive rod 52;
[0157] An insulating mounting base 53 is provided at its first end with a fixing connection part 531, which is configured to seal the insulating mounting base 53 onto the inner liner 2.
[0158] The insulating mounting base 53 is formed on the electrode rod 51 and the conductive rod 52, and the connection portion of the electrode rod 51 and the conductive rod 52 is wrapped inside the insulating mounting base 53;
[0159] The conductive rod 52 extends to the outside of the first end of the insulating mounting base 53, and the electrode rod 51 extends to the outside of the second end of the insulating mounting base 53, with the first end and the second end arranged opposite to each other;
[0160] A first sealing ring 54 is also fitted on the first end of the insulating mounting base 53. The first sealing ring 54 is configured to seal the connection between the conductive rod and the first end of the insulating mounting base 53.
[0161] Specifically, the electronic anode 5 is fixedly mounted on the inner tank 2 via an insulating mounting base 53 during use. During use, because part of the insulating mounting base 53 extends into the inner tank 2, it will expand and contract due to temperature changes in the water within the inner tank 2.
[0162] Due to thermal expansion and contraction of the insulating mounting base 53, gaps will form between the insulating mounting base 53 and the electrode rod 51 and the conductive rod 52 after prolonged use, which will cause water in the inner liner 2 to leak from the electronic anode 5 through the gaps.
[0163] By adding a first sealing ring 54 at the connection between the first end of the insulating mounting base 53 and the conductive rod 52, the first sealing ring 54 effectively seals the connection between the insulating mounting base 53 and the conductive rod 52 from the outside. Thus, even if gaps are formed between the insulating mounting base 53 and the electrode rod 51 and the conductive rod 52, the water in the inner liner 2 will be sealed and blocked at the first end of the insulating mounting base 53 by the first sealing ring 54 when it flows out through the gaps, thereby effectively improving the sealing performance of the electronic anode 5.
[0164] In one embodiment, the conductive rod 52 extending to the outer end of the insulating mounting base 53 is further provided with a first threaded section 521, and a locking nut 55 is provided on the first threaded section 521. The locking nut 55 is configured to deform the first sealing ring 54 in the tightened state to seal the connection between the conductive rod and the first end of the insulating mounting base 53.
[0165] Specifically, in order to press and seal the connection between the first sealing ring 54 and the first end of the insulating mounting base 53, a locking nut 55 is provided on the conductive rod 52. After tightening the locking nut 55, the first sealing ring 54 will be pressed against the insulating mounting base 53 to achieve a good sealing effect.
[0166] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 15-17, the end face of the first end of the insulating mounting base 53 is provided with an annular groove 532, the annular groove 532 is arranged around the outer periphery of the conductive rod 52, and the first sealing ring 54 is located in the annular groove 532.
[0167] The locking nut 55 presses the first sealing ring 54 into the annular groove 532.
[0168] Specifically, in order to facilitate the installation and positioning of the first sealing ring 54, an annular groove 532 can be provided on the end face of the first end of the insulating mounting base 53. During assembly, the first sealing ring 54 is placed into the annular groove 532, and then the locking nut 55 is tightened so that the first sealing ring 54 is squeezed into the annular groove 532.
[0169] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 18-21, a washer 56 is also fitted on the first threaded section 521. The edge of the washer 56 is provided with a flange structure (not marked). The locking nut 55 presses the washer 56 against the end face of the first end of the insulating mounting base 53. The first sealing ring 54 is pressed between the end face of the first end of the insulating mounting base 53 and the washer 56. The flange structure is wrapped around the outside of the first sealing ring 54.
[0170] Specifically, in order to facilitate the installation and positioning of the first sealing ring 54, a washer 56 can be fitted on the outer end of the conductive rod 52. The washer 56 presses the first sealing ring 54 against the end face of the first end of the insulating mounting base 53, and the first sealing ring 54 is protected by the flange structure of the washer 56.
[0171] In another embodiment, to facilitate the power supply connection of the electronic anode 5, a terminal block 57 is provided on the outer end of the conductive rod 52 extending to the insulating mounting base 53.
[0172] Specifically, terminal 57 is mounted on conductive rod 52, and terminal 57 is electrically connected to power supply module via guide.
[0173] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the conductive rod 52 is provided with a plurality of annular ribs 522 arranged side by side, and the annular ribs 522 are located inside the insulating mounting base 53.
[0174] Specifically, the ring-shaped ribs can increase the contact area between the conductive rod 52 and the insulating mounting base 53, thereby increasing the flow path of water leakage when a gap occurs between them, which is more conducive to improving the reliability of use.
[0175] In other embodiments, the outer surface of the conductive rod 52 is provided with a plurality of annular grooves 523 arranged side by side, the annular grooves 523 being located within the insulating mounting base 53.
[0176] Specifically, the annular groove increases the contact area between the conductive rod 52 and the insulating mounting base 53, thereby increasing the flow path of water leakage when a gap occurs between them, which is more conducive to improving the reliability of use.
[0177] In another embodiment, a second sealing ring 58 is provided on the fixed connection portion 531, and the second sealing ring 58 is configured to seal the connection between the insulating mounting base 53 and the inner liner 2.
[0178] Specifically, the second sealing ring 58 is used to seal the connection between the insulating mounting base 53 and the inner liner 2 to meet the installation requirements of sealing the electronic anode 5 onto the inner liner 2.
[0179] In one embodiment, the fixed connection portion 531 includes a sealing portion 5311 and a second threaded section 5312. The outer circumferential dimension of the sealing portion 5311 is larger than the outer circumferential dimension of the second threaded section 5312, and the second sealing ring 58 is attached to the sealing portion 5311.
[0180] Specifically, the insulating mounting base 53 is threaded onto the inner liner 2 via the second threaded section 5312, and the second sealing ring 58 is sandwiched between the inner liner 2 and the sealing part 5311 to ensure that the second sealing ring 58 can provide a good seal.
[0181] By adding a first sealing ring at the connection between the first end of the insulating mounting base and the conductive rod, the connection between the insulating mounting base and the conductive rod is effectively sealed from the outside. Even if gaps occur between the insulating mounting base and the electrode rod and the conductive rod, the water in the inner tank will be sealed and blocked at the first end of the insulating mounting base when it flows out through the gaps. This effectively improves the sealing performance of the electronic anode and enhances the reliability of the water heater.
[0182] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.
[0183] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and are not intended to limit them. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions claimed by the present invention.
Claims
1. A water heater, characterized in that, include: A water tank, the water tank comprising a tank shell and an inner liner, the inner liner being disposed within the tank shell; A heating module, which is disposed inside the housing and configured to heat the water in the inner tank; An electronic anode, wherein the electronic anode is disposed in the inner liner; The housing is provided with a mounting part, which is configured to detachably mount a power supply module for supplying power to the electronic anode.
2. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the power supply module; The power supply module includes a battery and a protective cover. The protective cover is detachably mounted on the mounting part, and a battery cavity is formed between the protective cover and the mounting part. The battery is located in the battery cavity.
3. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the power supply module; the power supply module includes a battery and a protective shell, the protective shell forming a battery cavity, and the battery being located in the battery cavity; The protective shell is detachably mounted on the mounting portion.
4. The water heater according to claim 3, characterized in that, The mounting part is provided with a mounting groove, and the mounting groove is provided with an insertion hole and a threaded hole; The protective shell is provided with a first tongue and a fixing hole. The protective shell is disposed in the mounting groove. The first tongue is inserted into the insertion hole. The screw passes through the fixing hole and is threaded into the threaded hole.
5. The water heater according to claim 3, characterized in that, The protective casing includes a first casing and a second casing, which are detachably connected together, and the battery is located between the first casing and the second casing.
6. The water heater according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first housing has protrusions on both sides, and a first groove is provided at the first end of each protrusion. The second housing has snap-fit protrusions on both sides, which snap into the first slots on the corresponding sides.
7. The water heater according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second housing is also provided with limiting protrusions on both sides, and the limiting protrusions abut against the second end of the protrusion; The first end and the second end of the protrusion are arranged facing away from each other.
8. The water heater according to claim 3, characterized in that, The protective shell includes a sleeve and an end cap. One end of the sleeve is a closed structure, and the other end of the sleeve is an open structure. The battery is inserted into the sleeve through the open structure of the sleeve, and the end cap is detachably mounted on the open structure of the sleeve.
9. The water heater according to claim 3, characterized in that, The protective casing is also provided with a first wiring hole, through which the wires connected to the battery pass and are electrically connected to the electronic anode.
10. The water heater according to any one of claims 2-9, characterized in that, The mounting part is also provided with a second wiring hole; a connecting cable is also provided between the shell and the inner liner, the connecting cable is electrically connected to the electronic anode, and a first wiring plug is provided at the end of the connecting cable that passes through the second wiring hole and extends to the outside of the shell; The wires connected to the battery are provided with a second connector, and the first connector and the second connector are connected together.
11. The water heater according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The housing is also provided with a shield, which is detachably mounted on the housing and covers the front side of the mounting part.
12. The water heater according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The electronic anode includes: Electrode rod; A conductive rod, wherein the electrode rod is electrically connected to the conductive rod; An insulating mounting part, wherein a fixed connection part is provided at the first end of the insulating mounting part, and the fixed connection part is configured to seal the insulating mounting part on the inner liner; The insulating mounting portion is formed on the electrode rod and the conductive rod, and the connection portion of the electrode rod and the conductive rod is wrapped inside the insulating mounting portion; The conductive rod extends to the outside of the first end of the insulating mounting portion, and the electrode rod extends to the outside of the second end of the insulating mounting portion, with the first end and the second end arranged opposite to each other; A first sealing ring is also fitted onto the first end of the insulating mounting portion, and the first sealing ring is configured to seal the connection between the conductive rod and the first end of the insulating mounting portion.
13. The water heater according to claim 12, characterized in that, The conductive rod extending to the outer end of the insulating mounting part is also provided with a first threaded section, and a locking nut is provided on the first threaded section. The locking nut is configured to deform the first sealing ring in the tightened state so as to seal the connection between the conductive rod and the first end of the insulating mounting part.
14. The water heater according to claim 13, characterized in that, An annular groove is provided on the end face of the first end of the insulating mounting part, the annular groove is arranged around the outer periphery of the conductive rod, and the first sealing ring is located in the annular groove; The locking nut presses the first sealing ring into the annular groove.
15. The water heater according to claim 13, characterized in that, A washer is also fitted on the first threaded section. The edge of the washer is provided with a flange structure. The locking nut presses the washer against the end face of the first end of the insulating mounting part. The first sealing ring is pressed between the end face of the first end of the insulating mounting part and the washer. The flange structure is wrapped around the outside of the first sealing ring.
16. The water heater according to claim 12, characterized in that, The conductive rod extending to the outer end of the insulating mounting part is also provided with a wiring terminal.
17. The water heater according to claim 12, characterized in that, The outer surface of the conductive rod is provided with multiple annular ribs arranged side by side, and the annular ribs are located inside the insulating mounting part.
18. The water heater according to claim 12, characterized in that, The outer surface of the conductive rod is provided with multiple annular grooves arranged side by side, and the annular grooves are located inside the insulating mounting part.
19. The water heater according to claim 12, characterized in that, A second sealing ring is provided on the fixed connection part, and the second sealing ring is configured to seal the connection between the insulating mounting part and the inner liner.
20. The water heater according to claim 19, characterized in that, The fixed connection part includes a sealing part and a second threaded section. The outer circumferential dimension of the sealing part is larger than the outer circumferential dimension of the second threaded section, and the second sealing ring is attached to the sealing part.