JP2000065427A - Hot water supply apparatus and water flow rate regulation/switch valve used in the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a hot water supply apparatus and a water flow rate regulation/switch valve used in the same with small number of parts, not requiring a large part-disposing space, capable of downsizing, having large freedom of design, and enabling part cost and assembling man-hour to be reduced. SOLUTION: In a branch part wherein a hot water supply route S1 branches out into a general purpose hot water supply route S2 and a bath hot water supply route S3, a water flow rate regulation/switch valve 10 is disposed, wherein the valve 10 has a function for switching the general purpose hot water supply route S2 and the bath hot water supply route S3, a water flow rate regulating function for maintaining a specified hot water temperature by reducing a water rate when a hot water delivery temperature is lower than the specified hot water temperature even by burning fuel at full capacity, and a function of a back flow preventing valve for preventing water (hot water) from backflowing to a heat exchanger through the general purpose hot water supply route S2 and the hot water supply route S1 when supplying bath hot water.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a water heater having a bath water heater function and a water flow control / switching valve used in the water heater.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A water heater having both functions of a general hot water supply function for supplying hot water (general hot water supply) to a kitchen or a washroom, and a bath hot water supply function for supplying hot water to a bathtub and a supplementary hot water supply (bath hot water supply). For example, there is a water heater as shown in FIG.

The water heater includes a water supply passage 51 for supplying water, a burner 52 for burning fuel (fuel gas in this example), and a combustion gas obtained by burning the fuel by the burner 52 and a water supply passage 51. Heat exchanger 53 for exchanging heat of the discharged water
And a hot water supply path S1 for supplying water (hot water) that has undergone heat exchange with the combustion gas in the heat exchanger 53, and a general method for supplying hot water to a kitchen, a washroom, or the like, which is branched into two from the hot water supply path S1. There is a hot water supply path S3 for supplying a hot water supply or a supplementary hot water supply (high-temperature hot water supply) to the hot water supply path S2 and the bathtub, a bypass path 57 for bypassing the water supply path 51 and the general hot water supply path S2, and interruption of the general hot water supply at the time of bath water supply. In case of
A bypass water flow switch 58 for detecting a water flow from the water supply system to the general hot water supply path S2; a bypass opening / closing valve 59 disposed on the bypass path 57 for opening and closing the bypass path 57;
2 and a backflow prevention valve 60 for preventing water from flowing back to the heat exchanger 53 via the water supply channel 51, the bypass channel 57, the general hot water channel S2, and the hot water channel S1, and to the bath hot water channel S3. A switching valve 61 which is opened when the bath water is supplied and which is closed when the bath water supply is not performed, and which is disposed in the hot water supply passage S1, so that the temperature of the hot water is higher than the set water temperature even when combustion is performed at the maximum capacity of the water heater. In the case where the temperature becomes low, a water amount valve 62 that functions to maintain the predetermined hot water temperature by squeezing the water amount is provided. The switching valve 61 is operated by a motor 61a,
The water amount valve 62 is configured to be operated by a motor 62a.

[0004] In this water heater, at the time of general hot water supply,
In a state where the switching valve 61 and the bypass on-off valve 59 are closed, the water (hot water) heated to a predetermined temperature in the heat exchanger 53 passes through the water quantity valve 62 of the hot water supply path S1, passes through the general hot water supply path S2, and then enters the kitchen. General hot water is supplied. At this time,
If the tap water temperature becomes lower than the set hot water temperature even when combustion is performed at the maximum capacity of the water heater, the water amount is reduced by the water amount valve 62 to maintain the predetermined hot water temperature.

When the hot water is poured into the bathtub, the switching valve 61 is used.
Opens, and hot water is supplied to the bathtub. In addition, at the time of hot water,
Although the bypass on-off valve 59 remains open, the backflow prevention valve 60 prevents water from flowing back from the general hot water supply path S2 and the hot water supply path S1 to the heat exchanger 53 through the bypass path 57. Then, when the hot water is continuously supplied and the set amount of hot water is supplied, the switching valve 61 is closed, and the supply of hot water to the bathtub is stopped.

[0006] Further, at the time of additional heating of the bath, the switching valve 61 is opened, and hot water is supplied to the bathtub (additional hot water supply). At this time, the bypass on-off valve 59 is opened, but the backflow prevention valve 60 prevents water from flowing back from the general hot water supply path S2 and the hot water supply path S1 to the heat exchanger 53 through the bypass path 57. Then, when the temperature of the bathtub becomes an appropriate temperature and a command to stop additional heating is issued, the switching valve 61 is closed, and hot water supply to the bathtub is stopped.

If an interruption of the general hot water supply occurs at the time of reheating, the bypass water flow switch 58 detects that water flows from the water supply passage 51 to the general hot water supply passage S2 via the bypass passage 57, and a predetermined time period elapses. After a lapse of time, the switching valve 61 is closed, hot water is supplied to the general hot water supply path S2 at a temperature without danger, and after a lapse of a predetermined time, the bypass on-off valve 5
9 is closed so that general hot water supply is performed at a stable hot water temperature.

[0008]

However, in the above-described conventional water heater, motors 61a and 62a are used for the switching valve 61 and the water amount valve 62, respectively, and water is supplied from the bypass passage 57 to the heat exchanger 53. Since the check valve 60 is used to prevent the backflow of the components, a large space for arranging the parts is required, which not only leads to an increase in the size of the apparatus, but also to arrange these parts in terms of design. There is a problem that it becomes a constraint and the degree of freedom of design is reduced. In addition, there is a problem that the cost of parts and the number of assembling steps are increased, which is a factor that increases the manufacturing cost.

The present invention solves the above-mentioned problems, and has a small number of parts, does not require a large space for arranging parts, can be miniaturized, and has a high degree of freedom in design. An object of the present invention is to provide a water heater capable of reducing the cost of parts and the number of assembling steps, and a water amount adjusting / switching valve used for the water heater.

[0010]

To achieve the above object, a water heater according to the present invention (claim 1) has a water supply passage for supplying water, a burner for burning fuel, and a fuel burner for burning fuel with the burner. A heat exchanger for exchanging heat between the combustion gas and the water supplied from the water supply passage, a hot water supply passage for supplying water (hot water) heat-exchanged with the combustion gas in the heat exchanger, and two of the hot water supply passages A general hot water supply path for supplying hot water (general hot water supply) to a kitchen or a lavatory, and a hot water supply path for performing hot water or additional heating water supply (bath hot water supply) in a bathtub; And the general hot water supply path is bypassed, and when a general hot water supply is interrupted at the time of bath hot water supply, a bypass path for flowing water from the water supply path to the general hot water supply path is provided. Water flow in the bypass path when there is an interruption And a bypass water flow switch to detect,
A bypass opening / closing valve disposed on the bypass passage to open and close the bypass passage; and a hot water supply passage disposed at a branching portion that branches into a general hot water supply passage and a bath hot water supply passage, and switches between a general hot water supply passage and a bath hot water supply passage. A switching function, a water amount adjusting function for reducing the amount of water to maintain a predetermined hot water temperature when the tap water temperature is lower than the set hot water temperature even when fuel is burned at the maximum capacity, and a And a water flow regulating / switching valve integrally provided with a check valve for preventing back flow from the water supply channel to the heat exchanger through the bypass path, the general hot water supply path, and the hot water supply path.

A branching section where the hot water supply path branches into a general hot water supply path and a bath hot water supply path has a switching function for switching between the general hot water supply path and the bath hot water supply path, and the outlet temperature is higher than the set hot water temperature even when fuel is burned at the maximum capacity. In the case of low water, a water flow control function to reduce the amount of water to maintain a predetermined hot water temperature and to prevent water from flowing back from the bypass to the heat exchanger through the general hot water supply path and the hot water supply path during hot water supply. By installing a water flow control / switching valve with a check valve function to prevent the water flow, the water flow control / switching valve fulfills the above functions, thereby reducing the number of parts and the number of assembly steps, reducing costs and installing parts. It is possible to realize miniaturization by reducing the space. Therefore, it is possible to provide a water heater that has a high degree of freedom in design, is small, and is excellent in economy. In addition, in both cases of general hot water supply and bath hot water supply,
It is possible to adjust the amount of hot water by adjusting one of the valve opening degrees while one of the general hot water supply path and the bath hot water supply path is closed.

Further, in the water heater according to the second aspect, when switching between the general hot water supply path and the bath hot water supply path, the water supply adjustment / switching valve switches while maintaining a sufficient water amount to maintain the combustion of the burner. Characterized in that it is configured to be performed.

The water heater is usually configured to stop the combustion when the amount of water supplied to the heat exchanger is equal to or less than a predetermined amount in order to prevent idle heating. When switching between the general hot water supply path and the bath hot water supply path by using the water amount adjustment / switching valve, if the switching is performed while securing the amount of water enough to maintain the combustion of the burner, the combustion of the burner is surely continued. , Smooth water supply can be performed.

In the water heater according to a third aspect of the present invention, when the general hot water supply is interrupted at the time of bath water supply, when the bypass water flow switch detects the water flow in the bypass passage, the bypass on-off valve is closed, and the temperature of the hot water supply is maintained at a safe temperature. It is characterized in that the general hot water supply path is opened by a water amount adjusting / switching valve after a lapse of time required for the general hot water supply.

A bypass water flow switch for detecting a water flow is provided in the bypass passage. When a general hot water supply is interrupted at the time of bath water supply, when the bypass water flow switch detects the water flow in the bypass passage, the bypass on / off valve is closed, and the safety switch is closed. After the time required for general hot water supply at a certain temperature has passed,
By opening the general hot water supply path with the water amount adjustment / switching valve and changing the amount of hot water supplied to the general hot water supply path while securing the water amount enough to maintain the combustion of the burner, smooth switching becomes possible, The present invention can be made more effective.

[0016] Further, according to the present invention (claim 4),
The switching valve is a water amount adjusting / switching valve used in the water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 3, and is configured to supply a hot water inlet into which water (hot water) flows and water (hot water) flowing from the hot water inlet. A valve body having a general hot water supply outlet for tapping into the general hot water supply channel, a bath hot water supply outlet for supplying water (hot water) flowing from the hot water inlet to the bath hot water supply channel, and the valve body inserted into the valve main body. Shaft and
A drive means for reciprocating the shaft in the axial direction, and a flow path from a hot water inlet of the valve body to a hot water outlet for general hot water supply provided on the shaft according to an operation in one direction or another direction of the shaft. A general hot water supply path opening / closing valve for opening and closing and a hot water supply path opening / closing valve for opening / closing a flow path from a hot water inlet of the valve body to a hot water supply outlet for hot water supply, and a shaft in a predetermined direction (one direction) during general hot water supply. The shaft moves in a predetermined direction (one direction) to open the hot water supply path opening / closing valve during bath water supply (during hot water or additional heating). If the outlet temperature is lower than the set hot water temperature even when fuel is burned at the maximum capacity, the opening degree of the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve or bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve is reduced to a predetermined value. Performs the water volume adjustment function to maintain the hot water temperature, At the time of bath hot water supply, the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve is closed to fulfill the function of a check valve which prevents water from flowing back from the water supply path through the bypass path, the general hot water supply path and the hot water supply path to the heat exchanger. Features.

The water amount adjusting / switching valve according to the present invention (claim 4) has a bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve and a general configuration in a valve body having a hot water inlet, a general hot water outlet, and a hot water outlet. A shaft provided with a hot water supply path opening / closing valve is inserted, and the shaft is reciprocated by a driving means. At the time of general hot water supply, the shaft is moved in a predetermined direction (one direction) to open the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve, and the bath water supply is performed. At the time (at the time of hot water or reheating), the shaft is moved in a predetermined direction (other direction) to perform the switching valve function of opening the bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve, and the fuel is burned at the maximum capacity. Even when the tapping temperature is lower than the set hot water temperature, the opening degree of the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve or the bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve is reduced by controlling the operation amount of the shaft by the driving means, and the predetermined hot water temperature is adjusted. Demonstrate the water volume control function that can be maintained In addition, at the time of bath water supply, the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve is closed, so that a backflow prevention valve function to prevent water from flowing back to the heat exchanger through the bypass path, the general hot water supply path, and the hot water supply path is used. , One part (water flow control / switching valve), switching valve function, water flow control function,
It becomes possible to fulfill the three functions of the check valve function. By using this water flow control / switching valve in the water heater, the number of parts of the water heater, the number of assembly steps, and the space for installing parts can be reduced. This makes it possible to obtain a small-sized water heater that is highly economical and has a high degree of freedom in design.

Further, in the water amount adjusting / switching valve according to claim 5, the valve body includes a first tubular portion provided with a hot water inlet, and a second tubular portion provided with a general hot water outlet. A third tubular portion provided with an outlet for bath water supply, wherein the first tubular portion, the second tubular portion, and the third tubular portion constitute a three-way junction; And at least a part of the third tubular portion forms a straight pipe portion, into which a shaft provided with a general hot water supply path opening / closing valve and a bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve is inserted. Is operated in one direction to open the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve away from the valve seat provided in the second tubular portion, and to open the hot water supply path opening / closing valve in the third tubular portion. When the shaft comes into contact with the seat and closes, and the shaft operates in the other direction, The on-off valve comes into contact with a valve seat provided in the second tubular portion to be closed, and the bath hot-water supply on-off valve is opened away from the valve seat provided in the third tubular portion. It is characterized by being.

As described above, the valve body includes the first tubular portion, the second tubular portion, and the third tubular portion constituting the three-way junction, and
When a shaft provided with a general hot water supply path opening / closing valve and a bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve is inserted into a straight pipe portion formed from at least a part of the second tubular portion and the third tubular portion, the shaft is moved in one direction. In this manner, the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve is separated from the valve seat provided in the second tubular portion to be in the open state while the bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve is brought into contact with the valve seat provided in the third tubular portion. The general hot water supply path opening / closing valve is brought into contact with a valve seat provided in the second tubular portion to be closed by operating the shaft in the other direction.
It becomes possible to separate the bath hot-water supply path opening / closing valve from the valve seat provided in the third tubular portion and to open the bath hot water supply path, and efficiently,
The function as a switching valve and the function as a check valve can be exhibited, and the amount of operation of the shaft by the driving means is controlled to reduce the opening degree of the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve or the bath water supply path opening / closing valve. This makes it possible to exert the water volume adjusting function, and the present invention can be made more effective.

Further, the water amount adjusting / switching valve according to the sixth aspect operates the shaft in one direction or the other direction to open and close the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve and the bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve. When switching between the hot water supply path and the bath, the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve and the bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve are configured to operate so that the switching is performed while ensuring the amount of water enough to maintain the combustion of the burner. It is characterized by having.

Normally, the water heater is configured to stop the combustion when the amount of water supplied to the heat exchanger is equal to or less than a predetermined amount in order to prevent idle heating.
Like a switching valve, when the shaft is operated in one direction or the other direction, when switching between the general hot water supply path and the bath hot water supply path, the switching is performed while ensuring the amount of water enough to maintain the combustion of the burner. By operating the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve and the bath hot water path opening / closing valve, when used in a water heater, it is possible to reliably maintain the combustion of the burner at the time of switching and to perform smooth hot water supply.

[0022]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, the features of the present invention will be described in more detail by showing embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a water heater according to one embodiment of the present invention.

The water heater of this embodiment includes a water supply passage 1 for supplying water, a burner 2 for burning fuel (fuel gas in this example), a combustion gas produced by burning the fuel with the burner 2, and a water supply passage. Heat exchanger 3 for exchanging water supplied from 1
And a hot water supply path S1 for supplying water (hot water) that has undergone heat exchange with the combustion gas in the heat exchanger 3, and a general hot water supply for supplying hot water to a kitchen, a washroom, or the like, which is branched into two from the hot water supply path S1. A bath hot water supply path S3 for supplying hot or hot water (high-temperature hot water supply) to the path S2 and the bathtub, a bypass path 7 for bypassing the water supply path 1 and the general hot water supply path S2, and a bypass path 7; A bypass water flow switch 8 for detecting a water flow when water flows from the water supply channel 1 to the general hot water supply channel S2 via the bypass channel 7; a bypass opening / closing valve 9 disposed in the bypass channel 7 for opening and closing the bypass channel 7; The hot water supply path S1 is provided at a branching portion that branches into a general hot water supply path S2 and a bath hot water supply path S3, and a switching function for switching between the general hot water supply path S2 and the bath hot water supply path S3, and setting even when fuel is burned at the maximum capacity. Hot water temperature is lower than hot water temperature The case, the water amount adjustment function to be able to maintain a predetermined water temperature squeezing water, at a bath hot-water supply, water, water supply passage 1, the bypass passage 7, generally hot water path S2,
There is provided a water flow control / switching valve 10 which functions as a backflow prevention valve for preventing backflow to the heat exchanger 3 via the hot water supply path S1. The water supply channel 1 is provided with a water amount sensor 11 for measuring a water supply amount.

As shown in FIG. 2, the water amount adjusting / switching valve 10 has a general hot water supply path opening / closing valve (valve element) 24 and a bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve (valve element) 25 disposed inside a valve body 20. It has a structure in which the inserted shaft 26 is inserted.

The valve body 20 has a first tubular portion 20a provided with a hot water inlet 21, a second tubular portion 20b provided with a general hot water outlet 22 and a third tubular portion 20 provided with a bath hot water outlet 23. A first tubular portion 20a;
The second tubular portion 20b and the third tubular portion 20c form a three-junction, and the second tubular portion 20b and the third tubular portion 20c.
A part of c forms a straight pipe portion 20d. A shaft 26 having a general hot water supply path opening / closing valve 24 and a bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve 25 is inserted through the straight pipe portion 20d. The general hot water supply path opening / closing valve 24 is separated from and connected to a valve seat 27a formed inside the valve main body 20 in accordance with the operation of the shaft 26, so that the general hot water supply tap 2
The opening / closing of the hot water supply path opening / closing valve 25 is performed by opening / closing the flow path to the valve body 2, and the bath water supply path opening / closing valve 25 is separated from and brought into contact with a valve seat 27 b formed inside the valve body 20. It is configured to open and close a flow path from 21 to a hot water supply tap 23. In addition, general hot water supply path opening / closing valve 2
4. O-rings 24a and 25a are fitted into portions of the bath water supply path opening / closing valve 25 which are separated from and brought into contact with the valve seats 27a and 27b so that the flow path can be reliably opened and closed.

Although not shown, the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve 24 and the bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve 25 are mounted on a shaft 26 via an O-ring to prevent water leakage. In the interior of 20, there are disposed springs 28a, 28b for urging the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve 24 and the bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve 25 in directions away from the valve seats 27a, 27b.

Further, the water amount adjusting / switching valve 10 is provided with a driving means (electric motor) 29 for reciprocating the shaft 26 in the directions of arrows A and B.

When the general water supply is performed, the shaft 26 moves in the direction of the arrow A (one direction) as shown in FIG. Is open and bath water is supplied (at the time of hot water or additional heating)
As shown in FIG. 3, the shaft 26 moves in the direction of arrow B to open the bath hot-water supply path opening / closing valve 25, thereby performing a switching valve function. When the tap water temperature is lower than the set hot water temperature, although not particularly shown, a water amount adjusting function for narrowing the opening of the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve or the bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve to maintain a predetermined hot water temperature is provided. At the time of bath water supply, the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve 24 is closed (FIG. 3), and water is supplied to the general hot water supply path S of FIG.
2. It functions as a backflow prevention valve that prevents backflow to the heat exchanger 3 via the hot water supply path S1.

When the bypass water flow switch 8 detects that a water flow has occurred in the bypass passage 7 due to interruption of general hot water supply at the time of hot water supply or additional heating of the bath, the water flow control / switching valve 10 is turned on. After the time required for closing the on-off valve 9 and enabling the general hot water supply at a safe temperature has elapsed, the general hot water supply path S2 is opened by the water amount adjusting / switching valve 10 and the combustion of the burner 2 is maintained. By adjusting the amount of hot water supplied to the general hot water supply path S2 while securing a sufficient amount of water, the general hot water supply can be stably performed.

In the case of the water heater configured as described above, at the time of general hot water supply, as shown in FIG.
The 0 shaft 26 moves in the A direction, the bath water supply path opening / closing valve 25 of the water flow rate control / switching valve 10 is closed, and the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve 24 is opened, and a predetermined temperature is set in the heat exchanger 3. (Hot water) heated to the kitchen is supplied to the kitchen or the like through the hot water supply path S1 and the general hot water supply path S2. At this time, if the tap water temperature is lower than the set hot water temperature even when the water is burned at the maximum capacity of the water heater, the opening degree of the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve 24 of the water amount adjusting / switching valve 10 is adjusted, and the water amount is reduced. Thus, a predetermined hot water temperature is maintained.

When the hot water is poured into the bathtub, as shown in FIG. 3, the shaft 26 of the water control / switching valve 10 moves in the direction B, and the general water supply opening / closing valve 2 of the water control / switching valve 10 is moved.
4 is closed and the bath water supply path opening / closing valve 25 is open,
Hot water heated to a predetermined temperature in the heat exchanger 3 is supplied to the bathtub. In addition, at the time of hot water, the bypass on-off valve 9
Remains open, but since the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve 24 of the water amount adjusting / switching valve 10 is closed, water flows to the heat exchanger 3 via the bypass path 7, the general hot water supply path S2, and the hot water supply path S1. Backflow is prevented. Then, when the hot water is continuously supplied and the hot water is supplied up to the set water amount, the bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve 25 is closed, and the hot water supply to the bathtub is stopped.

Also, at the time of additional heating of the bath, as shown in FIG. 3, the hot-water supply path opening / closing valve 25 is opened, and hot water is supplied to the bathtub (additional hot water supply). At this time, the bypass opening / closing valve 9 is opened, but the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve 24 of the water amount adjusting / switching valve 10 is closed, so that water exchanges heat through the bypass path 7, the general hot water supply path S2, and the hot water supply path S1. Backflow to the vessel 3 is prevented. Then, when the temperature of the bathtub becomes an appropriate temperature and a command to stop reheating is issued, the bath water supply path opening / closing valve 2
5 is closed, and the hot water supply to the bathtub is stopped.

If there is an interruption of general hot water supply at the time of hot water or reheating of the bath, the bypass water flow switch 8
When it is detected that water has flowed from the water supply channel 1 to the general hot water supply channel S2 via the bypass channel 7, the bypass opening / closing valve 9 is closed, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the general hot water supply channel S2 is opened by the water amount adjusting / switching valve 10. By opening the hot water and changing the amount of hot water supplied to the general hot water supply path S2 while ensuring a sufficient amount of water to maintain the combustion of the burner 2, general hot water can be safely supplied after a predetermined time has elapsed. FIG. 4 shows the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve 24 and the hot water supply path opening / closing valve 2 of the water amount adjusting / switching valve 10 when there is an interruption of the general hot water supply at the time of hot water or reheating.
5 shows a state in which the general hot water supply is interrupted while maintaining the burner 2 combustion.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are graphs showing the flow rate characteristics of the water amount adjusting / switching valve 10. FIG. 5A shows the flow rate characteristics at the time of switching from general hot water supply to bath hot water supply, and FIG. The flow characteristics at the time of switching to hot water supply are shown. FIG. 6 shows a flow rate change state when switching between general hot water supply and bath hot water supply.

That is, the water amount adjusting / switching valve 10 used in the water heater of this embodiment has a flow rate characteristic as shown in FIGS. 5 (a) and 5 (b). As shown in FIG. 6, when the hot water supply is switched, the flow rate required to maintain the combustion of the burner can be secured and the combustion of the burner can be continued, so that the hot water can be supplied smoothly. .

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of the operation of the water heater of this embodiment. Although FIG. 7 shows the case where hot water supply and general hot water supply are performed, the flow of operation is the same as that in the flowchart of FIG. .

The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, but includes specific configurations of a burner, a heat exchanger, a bypass on-off valve, etc., which constitute a water heater, a water supply channel, a hot water channel, and a general hot water channel. , Bath hot water supply path, a specific path such as a bypass path, with respect to the specific structure and shape of each member constituting the water amount adjustment / switching valve, within the scope of the invention,
Various applications and modifications are possible.

[0038]

As described above, in the water heater of the present invention, the hot water supply path is divided into a general hot water supply path and a bath hot water supply path.
A switching function for switching between a general hot water supply path and a bath hot water supply path,
In the case where the tap water temperature is lower than the set hot water temperature even when the fuel is burned at the maximum capacity, a water amount adjusting function to reduce the amount of water and maintain a predetermined hot water temperature, and when supplying hot water to a bath, water is supplied to a general hot water supply path, A water flow control / switching valve that functions as a backflow prevention valve that prevents backflow through the hot water supply path to the heat exchanger is provided so that each of the functions described above can be performed by a single component. Also, the number of assembling steps can be reduced, and it is possible to provide a small-sized water heater with excellent economical efficiency.

Further, the water heater is generally configured to stop the combustion when the amount of water supplied to the heat exchanger is equal to or less than a predetermined amount in order to prevent idle heating. When switching between a general hot water supply path and a bath hot water supply path by using a water flow control / switching valve like a water heater, if the switching is performed while securing the water amount necessary to maintain the combustion of the burner, By continuing the combustion of water, it becomes possible to perform smooth hot water supply.

Further, a bypass water flow switch for detecting a water flow is provided in the bypass passage as in the water heater according to the third aspect of the present invention. When the water flow is detected, the bypass on-off valve is closed, and after the time required to enable general hot water supply at a safe temperature has elapsed, the general hot water supply path is opened by the water flow control / switching valve and the burner burns. By changing the amount of hot water supplied to the general hot water supply path while ensuring the amount of water enough to maintain the temperature, smooth switching becomes possible,
The present invention can be made more effective.

Further, according to the present invention (claim 4),
The switching valve has a shaft provided with a bath water supply path opening / closing valve and a general hot water supply path opening / closing valve inserted and arranged in a valve body having a hot water inlet, a general hot water supply tap, and a bath hot water supply tap. The shaft is reciprocated by a driving means. At the time of general hot water supply, the shaft is moved in a predetermined direction (one direction) to open the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve, and at the time of bath hot water supply (at the time of hot water supply or additional heating).
In order to achieve the switching valve function of opening the bath hot-water supply path opening and closing valve by moving the shaft in a predetermined direction (other direction), and even when fuel is burned at the maximum capacity, the hot water temperature becomes higher than the set hot water temperature. In the case where the temperature is lowered, a water amount adjusting function for controlling the amount of operation of the shaft by the driving means to narrow the opening degree of the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve or the bath water supply path opening / closing valve so that a predetermined hot water temperature can be maintained. In addition, at the time of bath water supply, the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve is closed, and the check valve function to prevent water from flowing back to the heat exchanger through the general hot water supply path and the hot water supply path is exerted. Therefore, it is possible for one component (water flow control / switching valve) to perform the three functions of the switching valve function, the water flow control function, and the check valve, thereby reducing the number of parts and the number of assembly steps. Cost reduction and parts installation It is possible to reduce the size of the water heater due to a decrease in scan.

Further, the valve body has a first tubular portion, a second tubular portion, and a third tubular portion which form a three-way junction, and the second tubular portion has the same structure as the water amount adjusting / switching valve of the fifth aspect. Part and third
In the case where a shaft provided with a general hot water supply path opening / closing valve and a bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve is inserted into a straight pipe portion formed from at least a part of the tubular portion, the shaft is generally operated by operating in one direction. The hot water supply path opening / closing valve is separated from the valve seat provided in the second tubular portion to be in an open state, while the hot water supply path opening / closing valve is brought into contact with a valve seat provided in the third tubular portion to be in a closed state, By operating the shaft in the other direction, the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve is brought into contact with a valve seat provided in the second tubular portion to close it, while the bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve is provided in the third tubular portion. The valve can be opened away from the valve seat, and the function as a switching valve and the function as a check valve can be exhibited efficiently. To open the general hot water supply path By throttling the opening of the valve or the bath hot-water supply path on-off valve, it is possible to exhibit the water amount adjustment function can Arashimeru more effective the present invention.

In general, the water heater is configured to stop the combustion when the amount of water supplied to the heat exchanger is equal to or less than a predetermined amount in order to prevent idle heating. When operating the shaft in one direction or the other, like a control / switch valve, when switching between a general hot water supply path and a bath hot water supply path,
If the general hot water supply path opening and closing valve and the bath water supply path opening and closing valve are operated so that the switching is performed while securing the amount of water enough to maintain the combustion of the burner, when used for a water heater, it is ensured at the time of switching. Thus, it is possible to perform smooth hot water supply while maintaining the combustion of the burner.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a water heater according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a state of general water supply of a water amount adjusting / switching valve used in the water heater according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a state of a water amount adjusting / switching valve used in the water heater according to the embodiment of the present invention at the time of bath water supply.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a water amount adjusting / switching valve used in the water heater according to one embodiment of the present invention switches between general hot water supply and bath hot water supply.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a flow rate characteristic of a water amount adjusting / switching valve used in the water heater according to one embodiment of the present invention, wherein (a) shows a flow rate characteristic when switching from general hot water supply to bath hot water supply; (b) is a figure which shows the flow-rate characteristic at the time of switching from bath hot water supply to general hot water supply.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a state of a flow rate change at the time of switching between general hot water supply and bath hot water supply of a water amount adjusting / switching valve used in the water heater according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a flow of operation of the water heater according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a view showing a conventional water heater.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Water supply path 2 Burner 3 Heat exchanger S1 Hot water supply path S2 General hot water supply path S3 Bath hot water supply path 7 Bypass path 8 Bypass water flow switch 9 Bypass opening / closing valve 10 Water amount adjustment / switching valve 11 Water amount sensor 20 Valve body 20a First tubular portion 20b First 2 tubular part 20c third tubular part 20d straight pipe part 21 hot water inlet 22 outlet for general hot water supply 23 outlet for bath water supply 24 general hot water supply path open / close valve 24a O-ring 25 bath hot water supply path open / close valve 25a O-ring 26 shaft 27a, 27b Valve seat 28a, 28b Spring 29 Driving means (electric motor)

Claims (6)

[Claims] 1. A water supply path for supplying water, a burner for burning fuel, a heat exchanger for exchanging heat between combustion gas produced by burning fuel with the burner and water supplied from the water supply path, and a heat exchanger. A hot water supply path for supplying water (hot water) that has undergone heat exchange with the combustion gas, a general hot water supply path for performing hot water supply (general hot water supply) to a kitchen, a washroom, or the like, branched into two from the hot water supply path; And a bath water supply path for performing hot water or additional heating water supply (bath water supply) in the bathtub; bypassing the water supply path and the general hot water supply path; A bypass passage for allowing water to flow into the general hot water supply passage from the air passage; a bypass water flow switch disposed in the bypass passage for detecting a water flow in the bypass passage when there is an interruption of the general hot water supply during bath water supply; Established and bypass road A bypass opening / closing valve that opens and closes; a switching function for switching between the general hot water supply path and the bath hot water supply path; a switching function for switching between the general hot water supply path and the bath hot water supply path; If the tap water temperature is lower than the set hot water temperature even if it is set, the water volume adjustment function to reduce the water volume and maintain the predetermined hot water temperature, and at the time of bath hot water,
It is characterized by comprising a water amount adjusting / switching valve integrally provided with a backflow prevention valve function for preventing water from flowing back from a water supply channel to a heat exchanger via a bypass, a general hot water supply channel, and a hot water supply channel. Water heater. 2. The water amount adjusting / switching valve is configured such that when switching between a general hot water supply path and a bath hot water supply path, switching is performed while ensuring a sufficient water amount to maintain the combustion of the burner. The water heater according to claim 1, characterized in that: 3. When the bypass water flow switch detects the flow of water in the bypass passage when the general hot water supply is interrupted at the time of bath water supply, the bypass open / close valve is closed, and the general hot water supply at a safe temperature becomes possible. 3. The water heater according to claim 2, wherein the water supply adjusting / switching valve is used to open the general hot water supply path after a lapse of time necessary for the water supply. 4. A water amount adjusting / switching valve used in the water heater according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a water inlet (water) into which water (hot water) flows, and water (hot water) flowing from the water inlet. A valve body including a general hot water supply outlet for supplying hot water to a general hot water supply channel, a bath hot water supply outlet for supplying water (hot water) flowing from the hot water inlet to the bath hot water supply channel, and a valve body inserted into the valve main body. A drive means for reciprocating the shaft in the axial direction; and a drive means disposed on the shaft, from an inlet of the valve body to an outlet for general hot water supply in accordance with an operation in one direction or the other direction of the shaft. A hot water supply path opening / closing valve for opening / closing the flow path and a bath water supply path opening / closing valve for opening / closing the flow path from the hot water inlet of the valve body to the bath hot water supply outlet. (One direction) to open the general hot water supply path open / close valve, When (runner beam or additionally 焚時), the shaft a predetermined direction (unidirectional)
The hot water supply path opening / closing valve is opened to perform the switching valve function by opening the bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve. Alternatively, the opening degree of the bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve is narrowed to perform a water volume adjusting function to maintain a predetermined hot water temperature, and at the time of bath water supply, the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve is closed, and water is supplied from the water supply path. A water amount adjusting / switching valve, which functions as a backflow prevention valve for preventing backflow to a heat exchanger through a bypass, a general hot water supply passage, and a hot water supply passage. 5. The valve body according to claim 1, wherein the first tubular portion is provided with a hot water inlet, and the second tubular portion is provided with a general hot water outlet.
A third tubular portion provided with a hot water outlet for bath water supply, and the first tubular portion, the second tubular portion, and the third tubular portion constitute a three-junction, and the second tubular portion And at least a portion of the third tubular portion forms a straight pipe portion, into which a shaft provided with a general hot water supply path opening / closing valve and a bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve is inserted. Is operated in one direction to open the general hot water supply path opening / closing valve away from the valve seat provided in the second tubular portion, and to open the hot water supply path opening / closing valve in the third tubular portion. By operating the shaft in the other direction, the general hot water supply opening / closing valve comes into contact with a valve seat provided in the second tubular portion to be closed, and the bath hot water supply passage is closed. The on-off valve is opened away from the valve seat provided in the third tubular portion The water amount adjusting / switching valve according to claim 4, wherein the water amount adjusting / switching valve is configured to be as follows. 6. The burner when the general hot water supply path and the bath water supply path are opened and closed by operating the shaft in one direction or the other direction to open and close the general hot water supply path open / close valve and the bath hot water supply path open / close valve. The general hot water supply path opening / closing valve and the bath hot water supply path opening / closing valve are configured to operate so that the switching is performed while securing the amount of water sufficient to maintain the combustion of the water. Water control / switching valve as described.