JP2000154916A - Liquid fuel supply unit - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a liquid fuel supply unit in which fuel supply to a normal subtank is not interrupted so long as safety is ensured upon occurrence of an error. SOLUTION: A control section interrupts liquid fuel supply entirely to a plurality of subtanks upon occurrence of an error E1 which may cause level over of liquid fuel in at least one of a plurality of subtanks or an error E3 which may cause to empty a main tank. For other errors E5, E9, and the like, the control section interrupts liquid fuel supply only to a subtank selected by means of a change-over valve.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a fluid supply apparatus for selecting one of a plurality of fluid consuming configurations and supplying the fluid to the configuration side, and in particular, a liquid fuel such as kerosene or petroleum as the fluid. The present invention mainly relates to a liquid fuel supply device that assumes a combustion device such as a heater or a water heater as a configuration that consumes fluid.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A liquid fuel supply apparatus of this type is configured such that one of a plurality of combustion devices is selected by a switching valve to supply liquid fuel to a selected combustion device by a liquid pumping means, and a plurality of combustion devices are provided. The operation of the switching valve and the liquid pumping means is controlled based on each liquid level detected by a plurality of liquid level sensors for detecting the liquid level of the liquid fuel on each side, and the flow rate of the supplied liquid fuel is controlled. The supply amount and the like are calculated based on the detected amount by using the circulation amount meter.

[0003] More specifically, a conventional liquid fuel supply device is installed, for example, on a ground surface in the vicinity of a building, for example, for one building of an apartment house, and can store a large amount of liquid fuel such as kerosene. There are a main tank and multiple sub-tanks that are prepared for each household in the multi-family building with combustion equipment and can temporarily store the liquid fuel sent from the main tank, and a plurality of sub-tanks. A liquid level sensor configured with a float switch or the like for detecting the liquid level in the sub tank, and a pump as liquid pressure feeding means for transferring liquid fuel from the main tank to each of the plurality of sub tanks, A sub-tank switching valve provided on the inflow side of each of the plurality of sub-tanks to select any one of the sub-tanks, and a liquid in each sub-tank detected by a plurality of liquid level sensors Controls the operation of the sub-tank switching valve and the pump based on the liquid level of the fuel, detects the flow rate of the supplied liquid fuel using a flow meter, and calculates the supply rate and the like based on the flow rate. And a housing for accommodating the pump, the control unit, and the like. One unit composed of the housing and components housed in the housing may be referred to as a meter reading board. Although the flow meter is also housed in the housing, the flow meter is usually a commercially available product and may not be conceptually included as a component of the liquid fuel supply device.

In general, the control unit controls the operation of the switching valve and the liquid pumping means based on the liquid level detected by the liquid level sensor, and detects the flow rate of the supplied liquid fuel by using a flow rate meter. Then, the supply amount and the like are calculated based on the distribution amount. Further, the control unit performs the following control when various errors occur in the apparatus.

(1) When an error occurs due to at least one failure of the plurality of liquid level sensors or a failure of the control unit itself, the supply of the liquid fuel to all the sub-tanks is always stopped.

(2) Even if, for example, the outlet side flow path of the sub-tank is open or the sub-tank has a hole, the supply of the liquid fuel is continued until the liquid level sensor detects a predetermined upper limit liquid level.

(3) Even if the main tank becomes empty, the supply of the liquid fuel is continued until the liquid level sensor detects a predetermined upper limit liquid level.

(4) -1 If an error occurs due to a failure that the sub-tank switching valve erroneously selects an undesired sub-tank in addition to a desired sub-tank, the liquid level sensor of the desired sub-tank sets a predetermined upper limit liquid. Until the position is detected, the supply of the liquid fuel to all the sub tanks including the incorrectly selected tank is continued.

(4) -2 Further, in the case of a failure in which the liquid level sensor erroneously detects that the liquid level sensor does not actually detect an excessive liquid level, the liquid fuel supply to all the sub-tanks is performed. Stop supplying.

(5) When a failure of the flow meter is detected,
At the same time as the calculation of the supply amount is stopped, the supply of the liquid fuel to the sub tank is also stopped.

(6) When an error occurs, the fact is displayed on a display to notify the user of the apparatus.

(7) Once reading of the detection signal from the flow meter has failed, control using this detection signal becomes impossible.

(8) A commercially available flow meter usually uses a battery for the single unit. This battery may suddenly run out, in which case the detection signal will also suddenly disappear.

(9) After an error has occurred and is known and repaired, it is necessary to restart the device, that is, to turn off the power of the entire device and then turn it on.

(10) The control unit is designed to automatically supply the liquid fuel.

(11) The liquid fuel supply amount data is stored only while the power of the apparatus is on.

[0017]

The conventional liquid fuel supply device has the following problems or technical problems.
Note that the item numbers correspond to the item numbers in the above-described conventional technology.

(1) In the event that an error occurs, a device that does not stop the supply to a sub-tank that has not failed as much as possible is required as long as safety is ensured. This is because, for example, in a situation where a liquid fuel supply device is connected to a heating device in a cold region, a situation in which the supply of liquid fuel is stopped may cause a serious crisis, and such a situation, in particular, a failure Suspension of supply to the sub-tank that has not been performed is to be avoided as much as possible.

(2) When liquid fuel leakage occurs, control is required to minimize the amount of leakage.

(3) When liquid fuel is no longer supplied, it is difficult to determine whether the cause is a device failure or whether the main tank is actually empty. In addition, operation after running out of liquid fuel must be avoided because air is fed into the piping. Further, it is conceivable to provide a liquid level sensor for the main tank in order to detect the empty state of the main tank, but this requires a complicated and expensive device. Therefore, a control that can detect and prevent the emptying of the liquid fuel in the main tank with a simple and inexpensive configuration is required.

(4) -1 It is first necessary to detect the failure of the sub-tank switching valve, but at least the liquid levels in all the sub-tanks should be prevented so that the liquid fuel does not overflow from the incorrectly selected sub-tank. Must be detected.

(4) -2 Assuming that the liquid level sensor has failed, even in such a case, it is necessary to take measures to detect an excessive liquid level in the sub tank.

(5) In such a case, even if the detection of the flow amount of the liquid fuel and the calculation of the supply amount are not performed,
For the same reason as in (1), it is desirable to supply liquid fuel to a sub-tank that has not failed as long as safety is ensured.

(6) Displaying that an error has occurred on the display may cause the user to overlook, so it is required to provide a notification that can be quickly and reliably recognized.

(7) A measure for compensating the reading of the detection signal of the flow meter is required.

(8) It is desirable that the detection signal does not suddenly disappear due to the exhaustion of the battery of the flow meter.

(9) It is required that a normal state can be easily restored after an error has been repaired.

(10) When installing the apparatus, it is desirable that liquid fuel can be supplied to the sub tank selected by the installer. In addition, during the installation work, it is desirable not to add the used amount of the liquid fuel until the inside of the pipe and the inside of the sub tank are filled with the liquid fuel.

(11) It is required that the supply data of the liquid fuel can be used at any time.

An object of the present invention is to provide a liquid fuel supply device which can solve the above problems or the above technical problems.

[0031]

According to the present invention, the following liquid fuel supply devices (1) to (11) can be obtained.

(1) A switching valve for selecting one of the plurality of sub-tanks, a liquid pumping means for supplying liquid fuel from the main tank to the selected sub-tank side, and a liquid fuel level in each of the plurality of sub-tanks. A liquid level sensor to be detected, and the operation of the switching valve and the liquid pumping means is controlled based on the liquid level detected by the liquid level sensor, and the flow rate of the supplied liquid fuel is measured using a flow rate meter. A control unit for detecting and calculating a supply amount or the like based on the flow amount, wherein the control unit determines that a liquid level of the liquid fuel in at least one of the plurality of sub-tanks is an excess liquid level. In the case of an error that may cause the main tank to become empty, the supply of liquid fuel to all of the plurality of sub-tanks may be stopped. The liquid fuel supply device performs control so as to stop only the supply of the liquid fuel to the sub-tank selected by the switching valve.

(2) The control section stops the supply of the liquid fuel to the selected sub-tank when the liquid level does not change even if the time for supplying the liquid fuel to the selected sub-tank exceeds a predetermined time. The liquid fuel supply device according to (1), which performs various controls.

(3) When the supply amount of the liquid fuel per unit time to the selected sub-tank is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the control unit stops supplying the liquid fuel to all of the plurality of sub-tanks. The liquid fuel supply device according to (1), which performs various controls.

(4) Each of the plurality of liquid level sensors has a lower limit liquid level, an upper limit liquid level,
And a first liquid level sensor capable of detecting a first excessive liquid level, and a second liquid level sensor capable of detecting a second excessive liquid level higher than the first excessive liquid liquid level in each subtank. A control unit configured to supply liquid fuel to all of the plurality of sub-tanks when the first and second liquid level sensors detect the first and second excessive liquid levels. While only the supply of liquid fuel to the sub tank is stopped when only the second liquid level sensor of the first and second liquid level sensors detects the second excessive liquid level. The liquid fuel supply device according to (1), which performs such control as follows.

(5) A switching valve for selecting one of the plurality of sub-tanks, a liquid pumping means for supplying liquid fuel from the main tank to the selected sub-tank side, and a liquid level of the liquid fuel in each of the plurality of sub-tanks. A liquid level sensor to be detected, and the operation of the switching valve and the liquid pumping means is controlled based on the liquid level detected by the liquid level sensor, and the flow rate of the supplied liquid fuel is measured using a flow rate meter. A control unit that detects and calculates a supply amount or the like based on the flow amount, wherein the control unit detects a failure of the flow amount meter based on a detection signal of the flow amount meter. A liquid fuel is supplied to at least one of the plurality of sub-tanks when the flow meter is out of order, but the flow rate is detected using the flow meter. A liquid fuel supply device which performs control so as not to calculate the supply amount of the liquid fuel based on the amount.

(6) The liquid fuel supply device according to (1), wherein, when an error occurs, the control unit notifies the user of the error by sound.

(7) A switching valve for selecting one of the plurality of sub-tanks, a liquid pumping means for supplying liquid fuel from the main tank to the selected sub-tank side, and a liquid level of the liquid fuel in each of the plurality of sub-tanks. A liquid level sensor to be detected, and the operation of the switching valve and the liquid pumping means is controlled based on the liquid level detected by the liquid level sensor, and the flow rate of the supplied liquid fuel is measured using a flow rate meter. A control unit for detecting and calculating a supply amount or the like based on the circulation amount, wherein the control unit reads the detection signal of the circulation amount meter based on the detection signal of the circulation amount meter. A liquid fuel supply device having a function of detecting an error and performing rereading a predetermined number of times until a normal reading can be performed when the error occurs.

(8) The flow meter is of a battery type,
The control unit has a function of detecting a battery exhaustion of the battery of the flow meter as a battery exhaustion error, and when the error occurs, the liquid to any one of the plurality of sub-tanks is supplied to at least one tank. The liquid fuel supply device according to (1), wherein the control is performed such that the supply of fuel and the supply amount of liquid fuel are calculated based on the flow amount detected by using the flow amount meter, and the fact is notified. .

(9) The liquid fuel supply device according to (1), further comprising a reset switch for resetting a history of detecting an error.

(10) A switching valve for selecting one of the plurality of sub-tanks, a liquid pressure feeding means for supplying liquid fuel from the main tank to the selected sub-tank side, and a liquid level of the liquid fuel in each of the plurality of sub-tanks. A liquid level sensor to be detected, and the operation of the switching valve and the liquid pumping means is controlled based on the liquid level detected by the liquid level sensor, and the flow rate of the supplied liquid fuel is measured using a flow rate meter. A liquid fuel supply device having a control unit for detecting and calculating a supply amount or the like based on the distribution amount, wherein an automatic operation mode by the control unit and a manual operation for supplying an amount of liquid fuel to the sub-tank according to a manual operation. A liquid fuel supply device capable of switching to an operation mode.

(11) A switching valve for selecting one of the plurality of sub-tanks, a liquid pumping means for supplying liquid fuel from the main tank to the selected sub-tank side, and a liquid level of the liquid fuel in each of the plurality of sub-tanks. A liquid level sensor to be detected, and the operation of the switching valve and the liquid pumping means is controlled based on the liquid level detected by the liquid level sensor, and the flow rate of the supplied liquid fuel is measured using a flow rate meter. A liquid fuel supply device having a control unit for detecting and calculating a supply amount or the like based on the distribution amount, comprising a storage unit for storing supply amount data of the liquid fuel; A liquid fuel supply device, wherein the supply amount data is periodically stored in the storage means.

[0043]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, a liquid fuel supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a liquid fuel supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, the present apparatus includes a main tank 10 which is a main tank installed on the ground capable of storing liquid fuel, and a liquid fuel which is installed for each of households A, B. A plurality of sub-tanks 20a, 20b each of which can be temporarily stored.
And liquid fuel can be supplied from a terminal pipe 22 provided in each of the plurality of sub-tanks 20a and 20b to each supply destination (not shown) such as a stove.

Main tank 10 and a plurality of sub tanks 20
, a main pipe 31 connected to the main tank 10 side, and the main pipe 31 and the plurality of sub tanks 20.
a, 20b... are connected by a plurality of sub-pipes 32a, 32b.

An oval type flow meter for detecting the amount of liquid fuel flowing is provided at a position from the main tank 10 to the upstream side of the sub pipe 32a connected to the most upstream sub tank 20a of the main pipe 31. 40 are provided. An electromagnetic valve 50 as a sub-tank switching valve is provided at any one of locations from each of the plurality of sub-pipes 32a, 32b... To each of the plurality of sub-tanks 20a, 20b.
a, 50b... are provided. Multiple sub-tanks 20
are provided with a liquid level sensor 21 for detecting the liquid level in each tank.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged vertical sectional view of the liquid level sensor 21 in the sub tank 20a, for example. With reference to FIG. 2, the liquid level sensor 21 is configured by first and second liquid level sensor units 211 and 212 which are respectively suspended and installed in the upper part of the sub tank 20a. The sub tank 20a
The other sub-tanks have the same structure.

The first liquid level sensor section 211 is externally fitted to the outside of the float pipe 211-1 so as to be vertically movable in accordance with the liquid level of the liquid fuel in the sub-tank. , Upper stopper 211-5 and lower stopper 2
A ring-shaped float 211-2 whose vertical movement range is restricted by 11-4, a magnet 211-3 built in the float 211-2, and a magnet 211-3 arranged in the float tube 211-1 are provided. A total of three reed switches LS1, which are turned on by proximity and turned off by separation,
LS2 and LS3.

The reed switch LS1 is connected to the float tube 21
1-1, and is located at the bottom of the float 211-2.
Is turned on in a state of contact with the stopper 211-4, thereby detecting the lower limit liquid level LV1. The reed switch LS2 is disposed above the reed switch LS1, and detects the upper limit liquid level LV2. Further, the reed switch LS3 is disposed above the reed switch LS2, and detects the first excess liquid level LV3.

Reed switch LS1 and reed switch L
S2 is arranged at a predetermined interval so that the detection area ST1 and the detection area ST2 do not overlap each other. Also, the reed switch LS2 and the reed switch LS
3 is arranged so that the detection area ST2 and the detection area ST3 of each other partially overlap.

On the other hand, the second liquid level sensor section 211 is externally fitted to the outside of the vertically long float pipe and the float pipe so as to be vertically movable in accordance with the liquid level of the liquid fuel in the sub tank. -5 and a ring-shaped float 212- whose vertical movement range is regulated by a lower stopper 212-4.
2, a magnet built in the float 212-2, and a reed switch LS4 disposed in the float tube and turned on by proximity of the magnet and turned off by separation.

The reed switch LS4 is disposed at the top of the float pipe, and is turned off when the float 212-2 is in contact with the stopper 212-5, so that the reed switch LS4 is higher than the first excess liquid level LV3. High second excess liquid level LV4
Is detected. The reed switch LS4 has its detection area S
T4 is in a position range higher than the detection area ST3 of the reed switch LS3. The reed switch LS4 is on when the liquid level of the liquid fuel is located in the detection area ST4.

In this embodiment, all the reed switches LS1 to LS4 are turned on (contacts are closed) by the proximity of a magnet, but such a reed switch is sometimes called a normally open type.

In this embodiment, the float has a specific gravity such that the center in the height (thickness) direction of the magnet is at the same level as the liquid surface. Further, the reed switch is turned on when the center of the magnet in the height (thickness) direction enters the detection area.

Referring again to FIG. 1, the main tank 10
An electromagnetic pump 70 as a liquid pumping means for forcibly flowing the liquid fuel at a predetermined flow rate or more in any part of the main pipe 31 to the upstream side of the sub pipe 32a connected to the sub tank 20a. Is provided. still,
As the liquid pumping means, in addition to the electromagnetic pump, for example,
An electric pump composed of a combination of a rotary pump and an electric motor may be used.

The present device further comprises:
It has a control and display device for controlling the operation of the device including the opening and closing control of the solenoid valves 50a, 50b. The control / display device includes sub-control units 62a, 62b... For converting the input / output signals of the solenoid valves and the liquid level sensors for each of the plurality of sub-tanks 20a, 20b. , And a main control unit 61 that controls the operation of the apparatus, including the open / close control of the solenoid valves 50a, 50b,.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the main control unit 61 and the like housed in the case 615. Referring to FIG. 3, case 615 includes main control unit 61, display unit 611, test switch 612, display changeover switch 613, operation switch 614, buzzer 616, flow meter 40, filter 4
1, an electromagnetic valve 42 and an electromagnetic pump 70 are accommodated or mounted. The case 615 and the components housed or attached thereto are collectively referred to as a centralized meter reader.

The flow meter 40 includes a liquid crystal display section 40a and a signal output section 40b.

Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, the control / display device (main control unit 61) includes solenoid valves 50a, 50b.
The opening / closing control is performed so that two or more are not simultaneously opened. In addition, a liquid level signal from the flow meter 40 and each liquid level sensor 21 is taken in, and a plurality of sub-tanks 20a,
0b... Are individually measured. More specifically, the control / display device is electrically connected to the electromagnetic pump 70, the flow meter 40, the first and second liquid level sensor units 211 and 212, and the respective electromagnetic valves 50a, 50b,.
A function of controlling the energization and stoppage of the electromagnetic pump 70 and the electromagnetic valve 50, and first and second liquid level sensor units 211 and 21.
2 and a signal from the flow meter 40 to calculate and display how much liquid fuel has flowed into each of the plurality of sub-tanks 20a, 20b. still,
In FIG. 1, a dashed line indicates a signal line.

The flow meter 40 need not be housed in the same case 615 as the main control unit 61. Each of the solenoid valves 50a, 50b...
0b... Each of the plurality of sub-tanks 20a, 20b... Has an end pipe 22 for supplying liquid fuel to a stove or the like of each household.
And a manual on-off valve (not shown) for stopping / opening outflow of the liquid fuel from the terminal pipe 22.

Next, the operation of the present liquid fuel supply apparatus will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 1 to 3, FIGS. 4 to 6, and the error code table of FIG.

(Installation Mode) In step S401, the power of the present liquid fuel supply device is turned on.

In step S402, the main control unit 61
Detects a combination of ON / OFF of the operation switch 614, the display changeover switch 613, and the test switch 612, the operation switch 614 is turned off, and the display changeover switch 61 is detected.
3 is off and the test switch 612 is on, the mode shifts to the installation mode (step S403), while in other combinations the automatic operation mode (step S403)
The operation proceeds to 501), and the automatic operation is continued until the power is turned off thereafter.

Even when the installation mode is entered, the operation switch 61
4 is turned on, the automatic operation mode (step S50)
The process proceeds to 1) (step S403).

In step S404, the selected sub-tank and its state are displayed on display section 611.

In step S405, the main control unit 61
When the display changeover switch 613 is ON, the electromagnetic valve 42 is closed and the electromagnetic pump 70 is closed in step S412.
Is stopped, and the solenoid valve (one of 50a, 50b...) Of the sub tank selected in step S413 is closed,
Further, in step S414, the mode is switched to another sub tank, and the process returns to step S403.

In step S406, the main control unit 61
Usually means that the test switch 612 is off,
In step S410, the electromagnetic valve 42 is closed and the electromagnetic pump 70 is stopped, and the electromagnetic valve (any one of 50a, 50b,...) Of the sub tank selected in step S411.
And returns to step S403. On the other hand, if the test switch 612 is on, the process moves to step S407.

In step S407, the main control unit 61
If both the reed switches LS2 and LS3 of the liquid level sensor of the selected sub-tank are off, the process proceeds to step S408, while if at least one of the reed switches LS2 and LS3 is on, the above-described step S410 is performed. Move to

In step S408, the electromagnetic valve 42 is opened and the electromagnetic pump 70 is turned on. In step S409, the electromagnetic valves (50a, 50b
..) And returns to step S403.

That is, in steps S408-S409 or S408-S411, the liquid level of the selected sub-tank reaches the upper limit or the test switch 61
Supply liquid fuel to the selected sub-tank until 2 is turned off.

When the liquid fuel is supplied in the installation mode, the supply amount is not added. This is because the installation mode is such that the main pipe 31, the sub-pipes 32a, 32
b ... and the liquid fuel is once supplied into the terminal pipe 22 and the sub-tank. This is an operation mode at the time of installation, and the circulation amount at that time is not the supply amount of the liquid fuel actually consumed. is there.

In the above installation mode, by turning on the test switch 612 in this installation mode, the liquid fuel is supplied to the sub tank indicated on the display unit 611.

In the installation mode, the display changeover switch 6
13 is turned on, and the sub tank number of the display unit 611 changes.

The liquid fuel is supplied only when the liquid fuel in the sub tank has not reached the upper limit (the reed switches LS2 and LS3 are off and the LS4 is on).

(Automatic Operation Mode) In step S501, the main controller 61 detects the reading of the flow meter 40 as data Ms.

Here, the sub-control units 62a, 62b... Of the sub-tanks 20a, 20b... Function to output a signal for requesting the main control unit 61 to supply liquid fuel and an error signal according to the output of the liquid level sensor of each sub-tank. have.

In this embodiment, the main control unit 61
It is assumed that eight sub-tanks 20a, 20b, ..., and 20h are connected. In the control, the sub-tanks 20a to 20h are connected to the sub-tanks 20x (x = 1, 2,.
3,..., 8) The request for the sub-tank 20x is “present” when the reed switch LS1 of the liquid level sensor is on, and “none” when the reed switch LS2 is on.

In step S502, a request for the sub tank 20x is confirmed. If there is no request in step S503, the sub tank is changed, that is, x + 1 is set. On the other hand, if there is a request, it is confirmed that there is no error in the sub tank 20x (step S504), and T1 provided in the control unit 61 is checked.
The timer is started (step S505), and the operation for supplying the liquid fuel is started.

In the supply operation, the occurrence of an error is detected and determined in the sub tank 20x in step S506, and the occurrence of an error is detected and determined in the sub tank 20x in step S507. If an error is detected in steps S506 and S507, the process proceeds to step S51 described below.
Move to 2.

Then, the solenoid valve 50x of the sub-tank selected in step S508 is opened, and in step S50
At 9, the electromagnetic valve 42 is opened and the electromagnetic pump 70 is turned on.

In step S510, a request for the sub tank 20x is confirmed, and in step S511, it is confirmed whether or not the T1 timer has passed, for example, 45 seconds. Step S510
If there is no request, the process proceeds to step S512 described later. If the T1 timer has not elapsed for 45 seconds in step S511, the process returns to step S506.

At step S512, the electromagnetic valve 42 is closed and the electromagnetic pump 70 is turned off. At step S513, the electromagnetic valve 50x of the selected sub-tank is closed, and the routine goes to step S601.

In step S601, the sub tank 20x
The liquid level sensor confirms whether or not LS1 is ON, that is, whether the oil level is under the float where the oil level has not reached the float,
If so, the process proceeds to step S602, otherwise, the process proceeds to step S605.

In step S602, the sub tank 20x
It is determined whether or not the count value of the F counter of the main control unit 61 is 9, and if it is 9, the process proceeds to step S603.
Error E5 for the sub tank 20x at 9
If not, the process moves to step S604. Step S6
In 04, the count value of the F counter is incremented by one. On the other hand, in step S605, the count value of the F counter is reset to zero.

The error E5 is determined based on the determination that the liquid fuel outlet side of the sub tank is open because the liquid level is still below the lower limit liquid level even after being supplied ten times. On the other hand, when the lower limit liquid level is filled by supplying less than 10 times, it is determined that the liquid fuel outlet side of the sub tank is not opened, and the F counter is reset to 0.

In step S606, the main control unit 61
Detects the reading of the circulation meter 40 as data M (s + 1).

In step S607, the main control unit 61
Calculates the current supply amount Mk = M (s + 1) -Ms.

At step S608, the current supply amount Mk
Is a negative value, an error 7 indicating a failure of the flow meter 40 is set (step S611).

In step S609, the current supply amount Mk
Is less than or equal to, for example, 200 milliliters. If so, the process proceeds to step S610; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S614.

In step S610, the main control unit 61
It is determined whether the count value of the flow counter is 2 or not. If it is 2, the error E3 is determined in step S612. If it is not 2, the process proceeds to step S613. In step S613, the count value of the flow counter is incremented by one. On the other hand, in step S614, the count value of the flow counter is reset to zero.

The error E3 is issued based on the determination that the main tank 10 is empty because the supply amount Mk is 200 ml or less three times in a row. On the other hand, if the supply amount Mk exceeds 200 milliliters in less than three supplies, it is determined that the main tank 10 is not empty, and the flow counter is reset to zero.

In step S615, the main control unit 61
Calculates the cumulative usage amount ΣMx = cumulative up to the previous time + Mk for the sub tank 20x.

[0093] The above description is for one subtank 20x.
It is a supply process of times. In step S616, the sub tank 20 (x + 1) is set as the next sub tank. When X = 8, the next sub-tank is set to X = 1.

In step S617, the data M (s + 1) of the distribution meter 40 read this time is stored as the next Ms.
It returns to step S502.

In the automatic operation mode described above, one supply to one sub-tank is set to 45 seconds / time in this embodiment. Depending on the performance of the electromagnetic pump, 45
A supply of typically 300 to 350 milliliters per second is made. The supply of the liquid fuel is started when the reed switch LS1 of the sub-tank is turned on, and stopped 45 seconds after the reed switch LS2 or LS1 is turned on. When one supply is completed, supply is performed according to the state of the next sub tank. When LS1 remains on for 45 seconds, 1
If the operation is repeated 10 times for one sub-tank, an error is displayed and the supply to the sub-tank is stopped. The reason for such control is that if the float of the sub-tank does not operate with the supply of 45 seconds × 10 times, there is a possibility that there is a leak point in the pipe between the sub-tank and a combustion device such as a stove. .

If the supply of 200 ml / time or less continues three times irrespective of the number of the sub-tank, an error is displayed and the supply to all the sub-tanks is stopped (error display, buzzer 616 is turned on). The reason for such control is that the flow rate of the flow rate meter 40 becomes 3 with the supply of 45 seconds × 3 times.
If the number of times is 200 ml / time or less consecutively, it is highly possible that the main tank is empty.

The liquid level sensor 21 is composed of first and second liquid level sensor sections 211 and 212. When the signals from both sections indicate an excessive oil level, that is, the reed switch LS
When 3 is on and the reed switch LS4 is off, an error is displayed, and the buzzer 616 is turned on to stop the supply to all the sub tanks. When the signal of the second liquid level sensor 212 is the highest and the signal of the first liquid level sensor 211 is not the highest, an error is displayed and the supply to the sub tank is stopped. .

If an error occurs, the error is displayed (repair, etc.) by displaying the error. If the display changeover switch 613 is kept on for, for example, 5 seconds or more, the error is released and the error display disappears. At this time, if the error is not properly dealt with, even if the switch is operated, the error is still displayed, so that it is a measure of whether the measure has been taken surely. If an error occurs, reset cannot be performed for one minute.

When communication between the flow meter 40 and the main control unit 61 is not possible, or when abnormal data is read, an error is displayed and the calculation of the accumulated usage is stopped, but the supply to the sub-tank is stopped. continue. The reason for such control is that there is a possibility that an error will occur in the cumulative usage if the cumulative usage is calculated when the data of the traffic meter 40 is abnormal. However, if piped to the stove in cold climates, shutting off the supply must be avoided as much as possible.

The used flow meter 40 self-checks for a low battery and outputs a signal at least two months before the battery becomes inoperable. Upon receiving this signal, the main control 61 issues an error display and a buzzer output to notify the abnormality, but continues to supply the sub-tank and calculate the accumulated usage amount. In practice, 1
Since the administrator makes a cyclic check of the device every time, the administrator can notice the error display, replace the flow meter 40, and calculate the flow normally until the replacement. If communication with the traffic meter 40 becomes impossible, the communication is retried every ten minutes, for example. If the communication returns to normal, the calculation of the accumulated usage is restarted. The reason for such control is that
Communication with the flow meter 40 can be performed by contactless communication lines or AC10.
This is because pulse noise mixed into 0V may make it impossible.

The cumulative usage data is written to the non-volatile semiconductor memory element and the like once per hour during operation and when the power is turned off. When the power is turned on, the accumulated use amount data of the memory element is read. If a reading error occurs at this time, an error is displayed and the supply is performed, but the accumulated use amount is not written in the memory element.

Although the present apparatus transmits the accumulated usage amount to the management station through the telephone line, if an error occurs in the apparatus, it immediately transmits a message indicating the error. If the communication line is not connected or there is a sub-tank that has not been turned on when displaying the cumulative usage, the cumulative usage display displays, for example, "1E012345".

[0103]

According to the liquid fuel supply device of the present invention, the following effects can be obtained.

(1) When an error occurs, supply to the sub-tank that has not failed is not stopped as much as possible as long as safety is ensured.

(2) Even if a liquid fuel leak occurs, the amount of the leak can be minimized.

(3) The emptying of the liquid fuel in the main tank can be detected with a simple and inexpensive configuration.

(4) -1 The liquid fuel does not overflow from the incorrectly selected sub-tank.

(4) -2 Even if the second liquid level sensor unit outputs an excessive liquid level signal, if it is determined that the second liquid level sensor unit is out of order, a sub tank other than the selected sub tank is selected. Since the supply of the liquid fuel is not stopped, the supply of the liquid fuel can be continued to the sub-tank which is not dangerous even if the supply of the liquid fuel is performed.

(5) The detection of the flow rate of the liquid fuel and the calculation of the supply rate are not performed, but the liquid fuel is supplied to the sub-tank which has not failed.

(6) The user can quickly and surely recognize that an error has occurred.

(7) The reading of the detection signal of the flow meter is compensated.

(8) A situation in which the detection signal is suddenly lost due to running out of the battery of the flow meter does not occur.

(9) It is possible to easily return to a normal state after repairing an error.

(10) In the case of a failure of the control unit itself, a liquid fuel supply operation independent of the control unit can be performed.

(11) The supply data of the liquid fuel can be used at any time.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a liquid fuel supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of a liquid level sensor used in the apparatus shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a main control unit or the like housed or attached to a case used in the apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the liquid fuel supply device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the liquid fuel supply device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the liquid fuel supply device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is an error table for explaining the operation of the liquid fuel supply device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 10 Main tank 20a, 20b Sub tank 21 Liquid level sensor 22 Terminal pipe 40 Flow meter 40a Liquid crystal display unit 40b Signal output unit 41 Filter 42, 43, 50a, 50b Solenoid valve 61 Main control unit 62a, 62b Sub control unit 70 Electromagnetic pump 211 First liquid level sensor section 212 Second liquid level sensor section 611 Display section 612 Test switch 613 Display switch 614 Operation switch 615 Case 616 Buzzer LS1, LS2, LS3, LS4 Reed switch

Claims (11)

[Claims] 1. A switching valve for selecting one of a plurality of sub-tanks, a liquid pumping means for supplying liquid fuel from a main tank to a selected sub-tank side, and detecting a liquid level of the liquid fuel in each of the plurality of sub-tanks A liquid level sensor,
While controlling the operation of the switching valve and the liquid pumping means based on the liquid level detected by the liquid level sensor,
A control unit that detects a flow rate of the supplied liquid fuel by using a flow rate meter and calculates a supply rate or the like based on the flow rate, the control unit includes: In the case of an error that the level of the liquid fuel in at least one of the sub-tanks may become excessive and an error that the main tank may become empty, the supply of the liquid fuel to all of the plurality of sub-tanks is stopped, A liquid fuel supply device which performs control so as to stop supply of only liquid fuel to the sub-tank selected by the switching valve in case of any other error. 2. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein the supply of the liquid fuel to the selected sub-tank is stopped when the liquid level does not change even after a predetermined time has elapsed. The liquid fuel supply device according to claim 1, which performs control. 3. The control unit according to claim 2, wherein when the supply amount of the liquid fuel to the selected sub-tank per unit time is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the control unit stops supplying the liquid fuel to all of the plurality of sub-tanks. The liquid fuel supply device according to claim 1, which performs control. 4. A first liquid level sensor capable of detecting a lower limit liquid level, an upper limit liquid level, and a first excess liquid level of the liquid fuel in each subtank, and each of the plurality of liquid level sensors; And a second liquid level sensor capable of detecting a second excessive liquid level higher than the first excessive liquid level of the liquid fuel in the first and second liquid fuel tanks. When the liquid level sensor detects the first and second excessive liquid levels, the supply of the liquid fuel to all of the plurality of sub-tanks is stopped, and the second of the first and second liquid level sensors is stopped. Two
2. The liquid fuel supply device according to claim 1, wherein when only the second liquid level sensor detects the second excess liquid level, control is performed such that only supply of the liquid fuel to the sub tank is stopped. 5. A switching valve for selecting any one of a plurality of sub-tanks, a liquid pumping means for supplying liquid fuel from a main tank to a selected sub-tank side, and detecting a liquid level of the liquid fuel in each of the plurality of sub-tanks. A liquid level sensor,
While controlling the operation of the switching valve and the liquid pumping means based on the liquid level detected by the liquid level sensor,
A control unit that detects a flow rate of the supplied liquid fuel by using a flow rate meter and calculates a supply rate or the like based on the flow rate. A function of detecting a failure of the flow meter based on a detection signal of the meter, and supplying the liquid fuel to at least one of the plurality of sub-tanks when the flow meter has failed. A liquid fuel supply device, wherein the control is performed such that the calculation of the supply amount of the liquid fuel or the like based on the circulation amount detected using the circulation amount meter is not performed. 6. The liquid fuel supply device according to claim 1, wherein when an error occurs, the control unit notifies the user of the error by sound. 7. A switching valve for selecting any one of the plurality of sub-tanks, a liquid pumping means for supplying liquid fuel from the main tank to the selected sub-tank side, and detecting a liquid level of the liquid fuel in each of the plurality of sub-tanks. A liquid level sensor,
While controlling the operation of the switching valve and the liquid pumping means based on the liquid level detected by the liquid level sensor,
A control unit that detects a flow rate of the supplied liquid fuel by using a flow rate meter and calculates a supply rate or the like based on the flow rate. A liquid fuel having a function of detecting a reading error of the detection signal of the flow meter based on the detection signal of the meter, and when the error occurs, re-reading a predetermined number of times until it can be read normally. Feeding device. 8. The flow meter is of a battery type, and the control unit has a function of detecting a dead battery of the battery of the flow meter as a dead battery notice error. In addition, control is performed to supply the liquid fuel to at least one of the plurality of sub-tanks and calculate the supply amount of the liquid fuel based on the flow rate detected by using the flow rate meter. The liquid fuel supply device according to claim 1, which notifies that effect. 9. The liquid fuel supply device according to claim 1, further comprising a reset switch for resetting a history of detecting an error. 10. A switching valve for selecting one of a plurality of sub-tanks, a liquid pumping means for supplying liquid fuel from a main tank to a selected sub-tank side, and detecting a liquid level of the liquid fuel in each of the plurality of sub-tanks. Controlling the operation of the switching valve and the liquid pumping means based on the liquid level sensor and the liquid level detected by the liquid level sensor, and detecting the flow rate of the supplied liquid fuel using a flow rate meter. A liquid fuel supply device having a control unit for calculating a supply amount or the like based on the distribution amount, wherein an automatic operation mode by the control unit and a manual operation for supplying an amount of liquid fuel to the sub-tank according to the manual operation are provided. A liquid fuel supply device that can be switched to a mode. 11. A switching valve for selecting any one of a plurality of sub-tanks, a liquid pumping means for supplying liquid fuel from a main tank to a selected sub-tank side, and detecting a liquid level of the liquid fuel in each of the plurality of sub-tanks. Controlling the operation of the switching valve and the liquid pumping means based on the liquid level sensor and the liquid level detected by the liquid level sensor, and detecting the flow rate of the supplied liquid fuel using a flow rate meter. And a control unit for calculating a supply amount or the like based on the distribution amount, the storage unit for storing supply amount data of the liquid fuel, wherein the control unit A liquid fuel supply device, wherein supply amount data is periodically stored in the storage means.