Water flow damping device

Abstract

A water flow damping device for a vertical and horizontal installable electric water heater is provided. The water flow damping device includes a flow guide component adapted to be connected to an external water inlet pipe for cold water supply to the water heater, such that the flow guide component includes, a flow guide box comprising, a slow flow cavity adapted to damp the flow rate of the cold water discharged from the water inlet pipe when the cold water flow through the slow flow cavity, an overflow cavity in fluid communication with the slow flow cavity, such that the overflow cavity is adapted to damp the cold water flow and discharge the cold water flow out of the flow guide box, a movable panel movably disposed between the overflow cavity and the slow flow cavity, such that the movable panel is movable under the influence of gravity between an opened position, such that the overflow cavity is fluidly communicable with the slow flow cavity, and a closed position, such that the overflow cavity is fluidly isolated from the slow flow cavity.

Description

Water Flow Damping DeviceCross-Reference to Related Application

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of China Patent Application No. CN19879398A filed on January 7, 2025, which is incorporated by reference herein.Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a water flow damping device for electric water heaters, in particular, a water flow damping device for an electric water heater that can be installed vertically or horizontally.Background

[0003] Currently available electric water heaters on the market are generally categorised as follows: (1) vertical electric water heaters (installed vertically); (2) horizontal electric water heaters (installed horizontally); and (3) a vertical and horizontal dual-purpose electric water heaters (suitable for both installation orientations). In conventional vertical or horizontal electric water heaters, the water inlet pipe, water outlet pipe, heating pipe, and similar components are fixed in predetermined positions at the time of manufacture. As a result, these components cannot be adjusted to accommodate varying installation environments. If the water inlet pipe, water outlet pipe, heating pipe, or other associated components are not installed according to the designated orientation, issues such as unstable hot water temperature, insufficient water output, dry heating element operation, incompatibility of component usage, and other related problems may arise, potentially posing significant safety risks to users. Among these categories, vertical and horizontal dual-purpose electric water heaters are particularly favoured by consumers for their flexible installation options, which reduce the likelihood of installation errors and improve component compatibility, and for their high adaptability to diverse installation scenarios.

[0004] Nevertheless, current vertical and horizontal dual-purpose electric water heater products generally is not suitable to be adjusted in response to the selection between verticaland horizontal installation modes. As a result, these products are unable to effectively adapt to the water inlet and outlet conditions within the inner container, thereby failing to ensure stable water temperature delivery and a structure that is both simple and convenient.

[0005] Conventional water heater has limitations regarding adaptability, water flow control, and structural autonomy. In one example, a water heater uses a rotatable water inlet pipe and diversion mechanism, allowing adjustment between vertical and horizontal installation. However, it relies on manual rotation and offers limited damping and dispersion of water flow. In another example, a water heater has a water inlet assembly with multiple components, which increases material costs and is not able to provide adequate adaptation for both installation modes or stable temperature supply. In yet another example, a water heater has several integrated parts, including a water flow sensor and multiple connections. However, it lacks a versatile inlet structure for dual-mode installation, resulting in poor temperature stability and complex manufacturing requirements. Overall, these designs do not effectively address the need for flexible installation, stable water temperature, or simplified assembly in vertical and horizontal dual-purpose electric water heaters.

[0006] While attempts to resolve the issues above have been made, they are not able to solve the mentioned problem. In another example, an electric water heater has a water baffle cover designed to direct cold water flow and reduce disturbance to the hot water within the heater’s inner container. While it improves water distribution, it is unable to adapt to both vertical and horizontal installation modes, nor can it adequately reverse or slow the water flow using the device's structure. In another example, the water heater has a flow guide component with a diversion plate and buffer cover that slows cold water entry and minimises mixing with hot water. However, it also lacks adaptability for different installation orientations and does not sufficiently control water flow direction or reduce disturbance. Again, these examples fail to offer a versatile, adjustable solution suitable for vertical and horizontal dual-purpose electric water heaters.

[0007] In another example, a water heater uses water flow to drive an impeller inside a drainage cavity. As water enters, it causes blades on the impeller to unfold and rotate, which in turn drives an external engine to generate electricity, recovering energy from the water moving through the heater. The design includes features like guide grooves on the blades to optimizehow water pushes and unfolds them, maximizing the energy recovery process. However, while the water heater effectively recovers energy from water flow, it does not address the need for adaptability between vertical and horizontal installation modes in electric water heaters. In other words, the water heater is also not suitable for dual-purpose (vertical / horizontal) installation.

[0008] It is thus an object of the present invention to improve or resolve the aforementioned problems.Summary

[0009] To address the shortcomings identified, the present invention discloses a water flow damping device, as well as an electric water heater, that provide a configuration that facilitates optimal water flow distribution. The device enables effective reversal and damping of water flow, thereby minimising disruption to the hot water and ensuring stable water temperature supply. Furthermore, the design achieves reduced material costs, enhances operational safety, and has a robust and simple structure. The device is capable of being installed and used in both vertical and horizontal installed water heater

[0010] The invention mainly relates to the following technical scheme:

[0011] Accordingly to various embodiment, a water flow damping device for a vertical and horizontal installable electric water heater is provided. The water flow damping device includes a flow guide component adapted to be connected to an external water inlet pipe for cold water supply to the water heater, such that the flow guide component includes, a flow guide box comprising, a slow flow cavity adapted to damp the flow rate of the cold water discharged from the water inlet pipe when the cold water flow through the slow flow cavity, an overflow cavity in fluid communication with the slow flow cavity, such that the overflow cavity is adapted to damp the cold water flow and discharge the cold water flow out of the flow guide box, a movable panel movably disposed between the overflow cavity and the slow flow cavity, such that the movable panel is movable under the influence of gravity between an opened position, such that the overflow cavity is fluidly communicable with the slow flow cavity, and a closed position, such that the overflow cavity is fluidly isolated from the slow flow cavity.

[0012] Accordingly to various embodiment, the flow guide component may further include an impeller, such that the impeller is disposed in the slow flow cavity along a centre axis through the centre of the slow flow cavity, which coincides with a centre flow axis of the water outlet.

[0013] Accordingly to various embodiment, the impeller is fixedly or rotatably arranged in the center of the slow flow cavity, the impeller may include a hollow shaft and a plurality of three-dimensional flow blades extending therefrom, the hollow shaft may include a cylindrical shaft wall, a water outlet at one end thereof and a plurality of turning holes at uniform intervals on the shaft wall and at one end opposite the water outlet, the flow blades comprising a blade base extending along the shaft wall of the hollow shaft in a cylindrical spiral line, and a blade tip profile having a” shape; and a notch coinciding with each of the turning holes.

[0014] Accordingly to various embodiment, the flow guide box may include a water outlet in fluid communicated with the slow flow cavity, the flow guide component may further include a flow deflecting plate extending from one end of the flow guide box, and the flow deflecting plate is positioned above the water outlet.

[0015] Accordingly to various embodiment, the cross section of the flow deflecting plate is -shaped, ^'-shaped, fl -shaped, n -shaped, ^-shaped or Q-shaped

[0016] Accordingly to various embodiment, the flow guide component may further include a blocking element, the blocking element is rotatably connected to a free end of the flow deflecting plate, and the blocking element is adapted to rotate under the influence of gravity to block or unblocking the water outlet.

[0017] Accordingly to various embodiment, the longitudinal section of the blocking element is L-shaped.

[0018] Accordingly to various embodiment, further comprising buffer sheets are arranged in the slow flow cavity, such that the buffer sheets are arranged at intervals layer by layer, such that a top buffer sheet is rotated about an angle with respect to a bottom buffer sheet in a circumferential direction parallel to a sectional area of the water outlet.

[0019] Accordingly to various embodiment, the buffer sheet is provided with reinforcing ribs, and the cross section of the buffer sheet is at least one of p-shaped, T-shaped, ' '-shaped. ' '-shaped, ill -shaped or I4-shaped.

[0020] Accordingly to various embodiment, the movable panel is rotatably attached to the flow guide box through a pin shaft.

[0021] Accordingly to various embodiment, the longitudinal section of the movable panel is in the shape of “b” or “d”.

[0022] Accordingly to various embodiment, the movable panel is slidably inserted into the flow guide box and position obliquely with respect to the length of the flow guide box, and the flow guide box is further provided with a slot for the movable panel to slide inwardly and outwardly of the flow guide box.

[0023] Accordingly to various embodiment, the water inlet pipe is connected to the slow flow cavity, and the overflow cavity is provided with dispersion holes arranged in an array, and the dispersion holes are arranged on the same side or opposite side of the side that the water inlet pipe joins the slow flow cavity.

[0024] Accordingly to various embodiment, the flow guide component may further include a water inlet shaft sleeve, and the water inlet pipe is connected to the slow flow cavity via the water inlet shaft sleeve.

[0025] Accordingly to various embodiment, the water inlet shaft sleeve extends outwardly from a bottom wall of the flow guide box, and the bottom wall of the flow guide box is further provided with water inlet ribs surrounding the water inlet shaft sleeve.

[0026] Accordingly to various embodiment, further comprising a water outlet pipe extendable into the water heater, such that the flow guide box may further include a relief gap through which the water outlet pipe passes, and the cross section of the relief gap is at least one of O-shaped, U-shaped or '"-shaped.

[0027] Accordingly to various embodiment, the flow guide component may further include a water outlet shaft sleeve, such that the water outlet shaft sleeve extends outwardly from a bottom edge of the relief gap, such that the water outlet pipe penetrates through the water outlet shaft sleeve, and water outlet ribs surrounding the water outlet shaft sleeve is arranged around the bottom edge of the relief gap.

[0028] Accordingly to various embodiment, the water outlet pipe is curved and extended, and the position of the water inlet of the water outlet pipe is the highest entry point along the water outlet pipe.

[0029] Accordingly to various embodiment, the flow guide box may include a top cover and a bottom plate which are buckled with each other, such that the top cover may include a top plate and a side wall extending downwardly from the tope plate and along the edge of the top plate, and the side wall is provided with a shunting gap at a position corresponding to the relief gap.

[0030] Accordingly to various embodiment, an electric water heater adapted to be installed in a vertical and horizontal position such that the electric water heater may include a water flow damping device a provided above.

[0031] Accordingly to various embodiment, the electric water heater may include an inner container provided with a pair of through holes, and the flow guide component is installed in the inner container through the pair of through holes.

[0032] According to the technical scheme of the present invention, the water flow damping device has the following beneficial effects: the flow guide box is provided with an overflow cavity in fluid communication with the slow flow cavity, the distance of the water flow is lengthened along the overflow cavity, and the water flow is directed to be dispersed along the width of the overflow cavity to damp the water flow, thereby damping and reducing the flow rate of cold water and reducing the kinetic energy of the cold water; a movable panel acting under the influence of gravity is arranged between the overflow cavity and the slow flow cavity so as to allow fluid communication or isolation between the overflow cavity and the slow flow cavity, so that the flow damping device may be installed in an electric water heater that maybe install vertically and horizontally and operate under the influence of gravity, whereby manual operation is not required Water flow damping device has a robust and simple structure. The arrangement of the impeller further optimizes the damping effect on the cold water, the cold water causes the impeller to rotate through the curve parameters of the blades, and the impact force of the cold water is damped; the impeller can also optimize the distribution and guide the distribution of cold water, so as to more evenly distribute the water and reduce the impact force of water flow; the flow deflecting plate works with the water outlet to slow down the water flow in the horizontal direction to minimise disruption to the hot water, and plays the role of blocking the water flow when installed in a water heater in the vertical position to prevent the water flow from flowing rapidly to the hot water to influence the stability of water temperature of the hot water supply; the flow deflecting plate may be provided with an Ilshaped blocking element which plays a role of further damping the water flow and deflecting the water flow downwards when the water heater is in a horizontal position, and further deflecting the water flow to reduce the disturbance to the hot water when the water heater is in a vertical position; the blocking element is able to be rotated under the influence of gravity, enabling an automatic switching action that requires no manual operation; the arrangement position of the dispersion holes of the overflow cavity has a reversing effect on the water flow, which further reduces the kinetic energy of the water flow and an additional damping effect; the externally connected water inlet pipe is connected to the water inlet shaft sleeve, so as to reduce the material used; the arrangement of the water inlet shaft sleeve avoids welding of the water inlet pipe nozzle to the inner container, which simplifies the production process; on one hand, the arrangement of the water inlet rib strengthens the structure, on the other hand, secures the sealing gasket in position, and improves the sealing effect; the arrangement of the water outlet ribs around the water outlet shaft sleeve further enhances the strength of the structure and secures the sealing gasket in position; the top cover and the bottom plate which are buckled to each other form a flow guide box, so that the flow guide box is more convenient to be disassembled for maintenance; the shunting gap coincides with the relief gap so as to damp the cold water flowing out from the shunting gap through the water outlet pipe.Brief Description of Drawings

[0033] Fig. 1 is a structural schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment a water flow damping device including a flow guide component. .

[0034] Fig. 2 is a partially exploded schematic diagram of the flow guide component in Fig. 1.

[0035] Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of the side structure of the flow guide component in Fig.1.

[0036] Fig. 4 is a top exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the flow guide component.

[0037] Fig. 5 is a bottom exploded view of the flow guide component.

[0038] Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an impeller.

[0039] Fig. 7 is a top view structural schematic diagram of the impeller in Fig. 6.

[0040] Fig. 8 is a bottom view structural schematic diagram of the impeller in Fig. 6.

[0041] Fig. 9 is a comparison diagram of the flow velocity distribution analysis results of the CFD simulation test of the impeller of the flow guide component and an impeller of a prior art.

[0042] Fig. 10 is a structural schematic diagram of the electric water heater with the water flow damping device.

[0043] Fig. 11 is a sectional view of the electric water heater installed in the horizontal position with the water flow damping device shown in Fig. 10 along line A-A.

[0044] Fig. 12 is a sectional view of the electric water heater installed in the vertical position with water flow damping device shown in Fig. 10 along section A-A.

[0045] Fig. 13 is a sectional view of the electric water heater installed in the horizontal position shown in Fig. 10 along line A-A with another embodiment of the water flow damping device.

[0046] Fig. 14 is a sectional view of the electric water heater installed in the vertical position shown in Fig 10 along line A-A with the embodiment of the water flow damping device in Fig. 13.Detailed Description

[0047] In the following examples, reference will be made to the figures, in which identical features are designated with like numerals.

[0048] Fig. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a water flow damping device including a flow guide component 1. Flow guide component 1 includes a flow guide box 11 having a water inlet shaft sleeve 2 adapted to be connected to a water inlet pipe (not shown in Fig. 1), a water outlet shaft sleeve 3 adapted to be connected to a water outlet tube (not shown in Fig. 1), a relief gap O for connecting to a water outlet pipe (not shown in Fig. 1), and a flow deflecting plate 13 extending from the flow guide box 11 for blocking the water flow from the flow guide box 11. A blocking element 14 rotatably connected to the flow deflecting plate 13 to switch between a closed position and an opened position.

[0049] As shown in Fig. 2, 4 and 11-14, the water flow damping device suitable for a vertical and horizontal dual-purpose electric water heater includes a flow guide component 1 fluidly connectable to an externally connected water inlet pipe (not shown in the figures), the flow guide component 1 includes a flow guide box 11, the flow guide box 11 includes a slow flow cavity 110, cold water discharged from a water outlet of the water inlet pipe is discharged through the slow flow cavity 110, the flow guide box 11 further includes an overflow cavity 1100 adapted to be in fluid communication with the slow flow cavity 110, a movable panel X is arranged between the overflow cavity 1100 and the slow flow cavity 110, and the panel X is pivotally rotatable under the influence of gravity between an opened position where the overflow cavity 1100 is in fluid communication with or closed position where the overflow cavity 1100 is fluidly isolated from the slow flow cavity 110. The water outlet of the externallyconnected water inlet pipe may be directly connected into the slow flow cavity 110 or not. When connected directly, the water inlet pipe may be connected into the slow flow cavity 110 along a centre axis of the slow flow cavity 110 (therefore, in the case that the water inlet pipe is a round pipe, the sectional area of the water outlet of the water inlet pipe connected to the slow flow cavity 110 is circular), or the water inlet pipe can also be connected to the slow flow cavity 110 at an angle from the centre axis of the slow flow cavity 110 (therefore, when the water inlet pipe which is a round pipe is connected to the slow flow cavity 110, the sectional area of the water outlet of the water inlet pipe is elliptical). When it is not connected directly, the extension of the water inlet pipe into the slow flow cavity may be minimized, thereby reducing material usage and associated costs. Furthermore, such a configuration obviates the need for separately welding the inlet nozzle to the inner container of the water heater, thus simplifying assembly and manufacturing processes. Flow guide box 11 is provided with the overflow cavity 1100 in fluid communication with the slow flow cavity 110, whereby the water flows over a longer length along the overflow cavity 1100, and the water flow is dispersed laterally across and along the overflow cavity 1100 before flowing through the overflow cavity 1100 and into the hot water, so that the flow rate of cold water from the water inlet pipe is better damped and reduced, and the flow energy of the cold water is reduced; Flow guide component 1 may be configured automatically to be suitable for different vertical and horizontal installation modes of the water heater under influence of gravity. Hence, manual operation to configure it is not required. Flow guide component 1 is robust, effective but yet simple in structure.

[0050] Referring to Fig. 2, 4 and 5-8, the flow guide component 1 further includes an impeller 12 disposed in the slow flow cavity 110 at a position along the centre axis through the centre of the slow flow cavity 110 which coincides with the a centre flow axis of the water outlet 10. The arrangement of the impeller 12 enables the dispersion of the cold water to be more uniform and wider, and further optimizes the damping effect on the cold water, so that the water flow is more uniformly dispersed and the impact force of the water flow is reduced, the water flow is more uniform and moderate, so that more stable water temperature supply can be provided.

[0051] As shown in Fig. 2, 4 and 5-8, the impeller 12 may be fixedly or rotatably arranged in the center of the slow flow cavity 110. The impeller 12 includes a hollow shaft 121 and a plurality of three-dimensional flow blade 122 extending therefrom In the exemplaryembodiment, there are four flow blades 122. However, the number of flow blades 122 may be designed based on the requirement and size of the hollow shaft 121. Hollow shaft 121 has a cylindrical shaft wall, a water outlet at one end thereof, such that one end of the shaft wall of the hollow shaft 121, opposite the water outlet, is provided with turning holes K at uniform intervals from each other. Each flow blade 122 has a blade base that extends in a cylindrical spiral line along the shaft wall of the hollow shaft 121, a blade tip profile of each of the three-dimensional flow blade 122 is in a shape that resembles “ ”, and each of the three-dimensional flow blade 122 has an h-shaped torsional surface having a notch coinciding with each of the turning holes K. Preferably, the three-dimensional flow blade 122 has a curved surface configuration in space that conforms to the following torsional surface parameter equation:> "

[0052] wherein x, y and z represent spatial coordinates, a, b, c and d are four non-coplanar points forming the torsional surface abed, xa, Xb, xc, xa, ya, yt, yc, ya, za, Zb, zcand z are coordinate positions in the spatial coordinate system xyz of the four non-coplanar points a, b, c, d, respectively, and xaXb, ya^yb, xc^xa, yc^ya to limit the straight prime lines ab and cd of the torsional surface abed not perpendicular to the axis of the hollow shaft of the impeller 12, v is a parameter in the length direction of the straight prime lines in the torsional surface abed and is 1.09<v<2 .69, and t is a vector parameter and 0‘$t'$ 1. Hollow shaft 121 is arranged to allow a larger amount of cold water to enter the slow flow cavity 110 through the impeller 12, so that the circulation is strong, and the working efficiency is effectively improved. In addition, the hollow shaft 121 is provided with the turning holes K at uniform intervals on the shaft wall at the end opposite the water outlet, so that the dispersion quantity is larger, and the uniform dispersed effect is improved. Furthermore, the incoming cold water from the water inlet pipe is uniformly and rapidly conveyed to buffer sheets 111 to be further damped. The optimal design of the cold water flow channel along the flow blade 122 is realized by adopting the three-dimensional flow blades 122 extending along the torsional surface of the shaft wall, the cold water is freely expanded and compressed at the blade inlet and outlet, which rapidly dissipates the kinetic energy of the cold water, significantly enhances the damping effect while reducing reversing energy consumption. The three-dimensional flow blades 122 extending along the torsional surface of the shaft wall enables better adaptation to fluid dynamics andfacilitating more effective dispersion, buffering and reversing of water flow. The three-dimensional flow blades 122 extending along the torsional surface adopts an “h” shape having a notch (top empty part of “h” shape) coinciding with each of the turning hole K, the position of the notch allows the cold water to be discharged from the turning hole without being interfered by the flow blades 122 to cause turbulent flow, thereby also facilitating the discharge and reversal of the cold water. In this way, the flow guide component 1 may effectively meet the requirement of high cold water discharge. Impeller 12 when compared to a conventional impeller, the uniform flow distribution, damping, the effect of low energy consumption of reversal of water flow is more obvious. In the application, the shape of the curved surface of the three-dimensional flow blade 122 conforms to the torsional surface parameter equation, and the straight prime lines ab and cd of the torsional surface abed are not perpendicular to the axis of the hollow impeller (xav=xb, yav=yb, Xc^xa, yc^ya). The structural design ensures that cold water enters the impeller from the water outlet of the water inlet pipe (for example, the cold water enters the impeller in a vertical direction) and can be more rapidly reversed into a direction suitable to be damped by the buffer sheets 111 (for example, the cold water direction is reversed to transversely impact the buffer sheets 111), the cold water spirally turns along the three-dimensional flow blades 122 in the shape of the torsional surface, the impact force of the cold water is rapidly damped, the reversing energy consumption is lower, and the design of the shape of the torsional surface of the impeller also plays a role in optimizing the dispersion and guiding the distribution of the cold water, the damping effect is qualitatively improved. For details, refer to the CFD simulation experiment results shown in Fig. 9. Preferably, the flow angle (3 of the cold water at the blade outlet is not less than 15 degrees. More preferably, the flow angle 0 of the cold water at the blade outlet is not more than 8.9 degrees, and the radial component the flow velocity of the cold water at the blade outlet is not less than 0.21m / s. The impeller 12 may be integrally formed with the flow guide box 11, or the impeller 12 may be fixed by stopping mechanism respectively arranged on the flow guide box 11 and the impeller 12 respectively, such as, a stopping block and a receiving groove (or changing the setting position) In another embodiment, the impeller 12 may be fixed or rotatable with respect to the slow flow cavity 110 through the action of a locking mechanism. In the embodiment, a locking block strip arranged on the flow guide box 11 and swingable under the influence of gravity can be adapted to coincide with a groove arranged on the impeller 12 (for example, one of the turning holes can be used as a groove), when the locking block strip falls into the groove under the influence of gravity, the impeller 12 is fixed relative to the slow flow cavity 110. Theimpeller 12 may rotate relative to the slow flow cavity 110 when the locking block strip is lifted from the groove under influence of gravity

[0053] As shown in Fig. 3 and 11-14, the flow guide box 11 is provided with a water outlet 10 in fluid communication with the slow flow cavity 110, and the flow guide component 1 may further include a flow deflecting plate 13 extending from one end of the flow guide box 11, and the flow deflecting plate 13 is positioned above the water outlet 10. Flow deflecting plate 13 is used in cooperation with the water outlet 10, and plays a role of deflecting the water flow downward to prevent the hot water from being disturbed when the water heater is in a horizontal position, and plays a role of blocking the water flow to prevent the water from flowing rapidly to the hot water to influence the stability of water temperature supply when the water heater is in a vertical position. The cold water discharged from the water outlet 10 of the water inlet pipe is at least partially discharged from the water outlet 10 through the slow flow cavity 110. Preferably, the flow deflecting plate 13 is located on the end of the flow guide box 11 opposite to the overflow cavity 1100.

[0054] As shown in Fig. 1-5, the cross section of the flow deflecting plate 13 may be in the shape of “ — ” , “ “ n ” , “ n ” , ‘ ’ , or “ ” . According to the structural design, the flow direction of the cold water is limited to a certain extent, and the cold water is deflected or blocked, so that the hot water is prevented from being disturbed too quickly.

[0055] As shown in Fig. 1-5 and 11-14, the flow guide component 1 may further include a blocking element 14, which is rotatably connected to a free end of the flow deflecting plate 13, and the blocking element 14 is rotatable under the influence of gravity to block or allow the water flow through when exiting from the water outlet 10. Preferably, the blocking element 14 is rotatably connected to the free end of the flow deflecting plate 13 by a pin shaft. The flow of the cold water from the water outlet 10 may be further damped by arranging the blocking element 14 to be in the flow path of the water flow, thereby further reducing the speed of the water flow hence the disturbance to the hot water in the water heater.

[0056] Refer to Fig. 1-3 and 11-14, the longitudinal section of the blocking element 14 is L-shaped. Preferably, the blocking element 14 adopts a bent plate, such that the shorter sectionof the bent plate, which is connected to the flow deflecting plate 13, may be used for blocking or unblocking the water outlet 10 to allow the cold water through, and the longer section at the other end of the bent plate is used for deflecting the cold water downwards away from the plane of the flow deflecting plate 13 when discharged from the water outlet 10, so that the blocking element 14 further damps the water flow and deflects the water flow downwards when the electric water heater is in a horizontal position, and further blocks and deflects the water flow to prevent the water flow from disturbing the hot water when blocked by the flow deflecting plate 13 when the electric water heater is in a vertical position. Blocking element 14 may rotate under the influence of gravity, thus does not require manual operation.

[0057] As shown in Fig. 2, 4 and 11-14, buffer sheets 111 may be arranged in the slow flow cavity 110, and the buffer sheets 111 are arranged at intervals layer by layer, such that a top buffer sheet 111 is rotated about an angle with respect to a bottom buffer sheet 111 in a circumferential direction parallel to the sectional area of the water outlet. Preferably, the two adjacent layers of buffer sheets 111 are arranged in a staggered manner, so that when the cold water flows outwards along the radial direction of the slow flow cavity 110, the cold water may be dispersed, blocked and guided through the slow flow cavity 110 so that the water flow is damped. The structural design of the slow flow cavity 110 is beneficial to forming turbulent water outlet in the slow flow cavity 110, so that the kinetic energy of the water flow can be quickly dispersed, and a better damping effect is achieved, so that the disturbance to the hot water is reduced as much as possible.

[0058] As shown in Fig. 2 and 4, the buffer sheets 111 are provided with reinforcing ribs, and the cross section of the buffer sheets 111 has at least one of the shapes of, “T” , “ ' “ Jj ”or“ (|i ” On the one hand, the reinforcing ribs arranged on the buffer sheets 111 may improve the mechanical strength, and on the other hand, the buffer sheets 111 may also reduce the water flow, so as to better disperse, guide and reduce the impact force of the water flow.

[0059] As shown in Fig. 2, 4, 11 and 12, the movable panel X is rotatably attached to the flow guide box 11 through a pin shaft. Preferably, the movable panel X is rotatably installed in the flow guide box 11 through a pin shaft penetrating through a pair of mounting seats m, and thepair of mounting seat m may be integrally formed with the flow guide box 11. Moveable panel X may be any element that is able to block the water flow.

[0060] As shown in Fig. 2, 4, 11 and 12, the longitudinal section of the movable panel X is in the shape of “b” or “d”. According to the structural design, the volume and the weight of one end of the movable panel X may be increased, and the movable panel X may be easy to rotate under the influence of gravity.

[0061] As shown in Fig. 13 and 14, in another embodiment, the movable panel X may be slidably inserted into the flow guide box 11 and may be positioned obliquely with respect to the length of the flow guide box 11. Flow guide box 11 may be provided with a slot n for the movable panel X to slide inwardly and outwardly of the flow guide box 11. In another embodiment, the movable panel X may also be obliquely arranged so as to slide under the influence of gravity. Preferably, the longitudinal section of the movable panel X may be in a “ / ” or “9” shape. More preferably, in this embodiment, the movable panel X slides through a slide rail arranged on the flow guide box 11. More preferably, a counterweight may be added to the movable panel X to increase the weight of the movable panel X. For example, by increasing the weight or volume of one side of the movable panel X, the movable panel X may slide more easily through the slot n. Further, the enlarged part may be used to prevent the movable panel X from sliding out of the slot n.

[0062] As shown in Fig. 2-5, the water inlet pipe may be connected to the slow flow cavity 110, and the overflow cavity 1100 may also be provided with dispersion holes F arranged in an array, and the dispersion holes F may be arranged on the same side or opposite side of the side that the water inlet pipe connects to the slow flow cavity 110. Preferably, the dispersion holes F may be arranged on the same side of the side where the water inlet pipe is connected to the slow flow cavity 110. Position of the dispersion holes may change the direction of the water flow in the overflow cavity 1100 again to further reduce the kinetic energy of the water flow, so that the effect of damping the water flow is achieved. Moreover, the dispersion holes F may be distributed in an array and may uniformly discharge the water from the flow guide component 1. Preferably, the orientation of the dispersion holes F is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the water inlet pipe.

[0063] As shown in Fig. 1-3, 5 and 10-14, the flow guide component 1 may further include a water inlet shaft sleeve 2, and the water inlet pipe may be connected to the slow flow cavity 110 via the water inlet shaft sleeve 2. Water inlet shaft sleeve 2 may extend out of the inner container of the water heater, thereby avoiding welding of a water inlet nozzle to the inner container thus simplifying the production process. Preferably, the outer peripheral wall of the water inlet shaft sleeve 2 is provided with an external thread, so that a sealing gasket may be engaged around the water inlet shaft sleeve 2 and close to the inner wall and the outer wall of the inner container and may then be secured by a locking nut with internal thread. The placement of the sealing gasket may prevent the inner coating, e.g. enamel, of the inner container from being damaged.

[0064] As shown in Fig. 3, 5 and 11-14, the water inlet shaft sleeve 2 extends outwardly from a bottom wall of the flow guide box 11, and the bottom wall of the flow guide box 11 is further provided with water inlet ribs 21 surrounding the water inlet shaft sleeve 2. Preferably, the water inlet ribs 21 are annularly arranged, which not only guides the sealing gasket, but also improve the mechanical strength of the structure by the water inlet ribs 21.

[0065] As shown in Fig. 1, 2, 4, 5 and 11 - 14, the flow guide component 1 may further include a water outlet pipe T extendable into the water heater, the flow guide box 11 may also include a relief gap O through which the water outlet pipe T passes, and the cross section of the relief gap O is at least one of the O-shaped, U-shaped or '“'-shaped.

[0066] As shown in Fig. 1-3, 5 and 10-14, the flow guide component 1 may further include a water outlet shaft sleeve 3 Water outlet shaft sleeve 3 may extend outwardly from a bottom edge of the relief gap O, and the water outlet pipe T penetrates through the water outlet shaft sleeve 3. Bottom edge of the relief gap O may also be provided with water outlet ribs 31 surrounding the water outlet shaft sleeve 3. The extension of the water outlet shaft sleeve 3 out of the inner container of the water heater, enable welding of a water outlet pipe nozzle on the inner container to be avoided thus simplifying the production process. Preferably, the outer peripheral wall of the water outlet shaft sleeve 3 is provided with an external thread, so that a sealing gasket may be engaged around the water outlet shaft sleeve 3 and close to the inner wall and the outer wall of the inner container and may then be secured by a locking nut withinternal thread. The placement of the sealing gasket may prevent the inner coating, e.g. enamel, of the inner container from being damaged Preferably, the water outlet pipe T may be provided with a flange to be clamped at the free end of the water outlet shaft sleeve 3. Preferably, the water outlet ribs 31 may be annularly arranged, so that the sealing gasket may be guided by it, and the mechanical strength of the structure may be improved by the water outlet ribs 31.

[0067] Referring to Fig. 11-14, the water outlet pipe T may be curved and extends into the water heater, and the position of the water inlet end of the water outlet pipe T is disposed near the top of the water heater when in the horizontal or vertical position, such that the water inlet is at the highest entry point along the water outlet pipe T. This design ensures that the water inlet of the water outlet pipe T is positioned at the upper end of the inner container where water may be the hottest no matter whether the electric water heater is in a vertical position or a horizontal position, so that the upper portion of hot water is continuously supplied from the water heater.

[0068] As shown in Fig. 2, 4 and 5, the flow guide box 11 may include a top cover 51 and a bottom plate 52 which may be fastened to each other. The top cover 51 includes a top plate 511 and a side wall 512 extending downwardly from the top plate 511 and along the edge of the top plate 511. The side wall 512 is provided with a shunting gap Q at the position corresponding to the relief gap O. Preferably, the top cover 51 and the bottom plate 52 are fastened to each other by snap fit. The water flow may be discharged from the shunting gap Q and impacts the water outlet pipe T to further damp and decelerate the water flow.

[0069] Preferably, the cross-section of the relief gap O on the bottom plate 52 is O-shaped, while the cross-section of the relief gap O on the top cover 51 is U-shaped or’ '-shaped A steep stepped structure may be formed between the bottom plate 52 and the top cover 51. (the surface formed between the bottom plate 52 and the top cover 51 is not slanted, i.e. the side wall of the top cover 51 is not slanted), so that the cold water flowing out of a shunting gap Q is directed onto the water outlet pipe T, so that the damping effect on the water flow is greater.

[0070] As shown in Fig. 10, the electric water heater incorporates the water inlet shaft sleeve 2 and the water outlet shaft sleeve 3 thereinto and may be arranged as a vertical and horizontal dual-purpose electric water heater.

[0071] As shown in Fig. 10-14, the electric water heater may include the inner container provided with a pair of through holes, and the flow guide component 1 may be installed in the inner container through the through holes. The sealing gasket may be arranged at each of the through hole and respectively attached to the inner wall and the outer wall of the inner container, and the water inlet shaft sleeve 2 and the water outlet shaft sleeve 3 extend out of the through holes, so that the water inlet pipe nozzle and the water outlet pipe nozzle need not be welded to the water heater. Flow guide component 1 may be fixed by securing the locking nuts to the sleeves 2,3. Preferably, the through holes are designed as a counterbore to conceal part of the structure of the sealing gasket and / or the locking nut.

[0072] Although specific embodiment of the present invention has been described above, changes may be made therein by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and principles set forth herein, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the claims and its equivalents.

[0073] The present invention relates to a water flow damping device generally as herein described, with reference to and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

Claims

Claim1. A water flow damping device for a vertical and horizontal installable electric water heater, the water flow damping device comprising:a flow guide component adapted to be connected to an external water inlet pipe for cold water supply to the water heater, wherein the flow guide component comprises, a flow guide box comprising,a slow flow cavity adapted to damp the flow rate of the cold water discharged from the water inlet pipe when the cold water flow through the slow flow cavity,an overflow cavity in fluid communication with the slow flow cavity, wherein the overflow cavity is adapted to damp the cold water flow and discharge the cold water flow out of the flow guide box, a movable panel movably disposed between the overflow cavity and the slow flow cavity, wherein the movable panel is movable under the influence of gravity between an opened position, wherein the overflow cavity is fluidly communicable with the slow flow cavity, and a closed position, wherein the overflow cavity is fluidly isolated from the slow flow cavity.

2. The water flow damping device according to claim 1, wherein the flow guide component further comprises an impeller, wherein the impeller is disposed in the slow flow cavity along a centre axis through the centre of the slow flow cavity, which coincides with a centre flow axis of the water outlet.

3. The water flow damping device according to claim 2, wherein the impeller is fixedly or rotatably arranged in the center of the slow flow cavity, the impeller comprises a hollow shaft and a plurality of three-dimensional flow blades extending therefrom, the hollow shaft comprises a cylindrical shaft wall, a water outlet at one end thereof and a plurality of turning holes at uniform intervals on the shaft wall and at one end opposite the water outlet, the flow blades comprising a blade base extending along the shaft wall of the hollow shaft in a cylindrical spiral line, and a blade tip profile having a “ T? ” shape; and a notch coinciding with each of the turning holes.

4. The water flow damping device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the flow guide box comprises a water outlet in fluid communicated with the slow flow cavity, the flow guide component further comprises a flow deflecting plate extending from one end of the flow guide box, and the flow deflecting plate is positioned above the water outlet.

5. The water flow damping device according to claim 4, wherein the cross section of the flow deflecting plate is -shaped, '' -shaped, Cl -shaped, n -shaped, ^-shaped or Q-shaped.

6. The water flow damping device according to claim 4, wherein the flow guide component further comprises a blocking element, the blocking element is rotatably connected to a free end of the flow deflecting plate, and the blocking element is adapted to rotate under the influence of gravity to block or unblocking the water outlet.

7. The water flow damping device according to claim 4, wherein the longitudinal section of the blocking element is L-shaped.

8. The water flow damping device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising buffer sheets are arranged in the slow flow cavity, wherein the buffer sheets are arranged at intervals layer by layer, wherein a top buffer sheet is rotated about an angle with respect to a bottom buffer sheet in a circumferential direction parallel to a sectional area of the water outlet.

9. The water flow damping device according to claim 8, wherein the buffer sheet is provided with reinforcing ribs, and the cross section of the buffer sheet is at least one of +-shaped, T-shaped, ' '-shaped, ' ’-shaped, ill -shaped or 'I '-shaped.

10. The water flow damping device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the movable panel is rotatably attached to the flow guide box through a pin shaft.

11. The water flow damping device according to claim 10, wherein the longitudinal section of the movable panel is in the shape of “b” or “d”.

12. The water flow damping device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the movable panel is slidably inserted into the flow guide box and position obliquely with respect to the length of the flow guide box, and the flow guide box is further provided with a slot for the movable panel to slide inwardly and outwardly of the flow guide box.

13. The water flow damping device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the water inlet pipe is connected to the slow flow cavity, and the overflow cavity is provided with dispersion holes arranged in an array, and the dispersion holes are arranged on the same side or opposite side of the side that the water inlet pipe joins the slow flow cavity.

14. The water flow damping device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the flow guide component further comprises a water inlet shaft sleeve, and the water inlet pipe is connected to the slow flow cavity via the water inlet shaft sleeve.

15. The water flow damping device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the water inlet shaft sleeve extends outwardly from a bottom wall of the flow guide box, and the bottom wall of the flow guide box is further provided with water inlet ribs surrounding the water inlet shaft sleeve.

16. The water flow damping device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, further comprising a water outlet pipe extendable into the water heater, wherein the flow guide box further comprises a relief gap through which the water outlet pipe passes, and the cross section of the relief gap is at least one of O-shaped, U-shaped or '■' -shaped.

17. The water flow damping device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the flow guide component further comprises a water outlet shaft sleeve, wherein the water outlet shaft sleeve extends outwardly from a bottom edge of the relief gap, wherein the water outlet pipe penetrates through the water outlet shaft sleeve, and water outlet ribs surrounding the water outlet shaft sleeve is arranged around the bottom edge of the relief gap.

18. The water flow damping device according to claim 17, wherein the water outlet pipe is curved and extended, and the position of the water inlet of the water outlet pipe is the highest entry point along the water outlet pipe.

19. The water flow damping device according to claim 18, wherein the flow guide box comprises a top cover and a bottom plate which are buckled with each other, wherein the top cover comprises a top plate and a side wall extending downwardly from the tope plate and along the edge of the top plate, and the side wall is provided with a shunting gap at a position corresponding to the relief gap.

20. An electric water heater adapted to be installed in a vertical and horizontal position wherein the electric water heater comprises a water flow damping device according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

21. The electric water heater according to claim 20, wherein the electric water heater comprises an inner container provided with a pair of through holes, and the flow guide component is installed in the inner container through the pair of through holes.

Images