JP2005348789A - Steam generating device and bathtub sauna system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a steam generating device capable of immediately shifting to a regular state at the start of operation or when temperature drops during the operation, and a bathtub sauna system with the steam generating device. <P>SOLUTION: The steam generating device comprises an air intake capable of taking in the outside air, a steam generating means for heating and humidifying the outside air taken in through the intake and generating steam, an outlet for releasing the generated steam, and a control part for the feedback control of the steam generating means based on the temperature at the outlet. The control part carries out the feedback control based on a first upper threshold in a prescribed period of time from the start of generation of steam by the steam generating means, and carries out the feedback control based on a second upper threshold lower than the first upper threshold after the elapse of the prescribed period of time. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a steam generator and a bathtub sauna system, and in particular, sends steam into a bathtub used for normal bathing (whole body bath, half-body bath, etc.), so that the sauna bath can be made by the steam staying in the bathtub. The present invention relates to a steam generator and a bathtub sauna system.

  In recent years, the effects of sauna baths have attracted attention from the viewpoint of beauty and health maintenance, and methods and devices that can perform sauna baths in general households have been proposed. The simplest way to bathe in a sauna at home is to fill the bathtub with about half of that hot water (waist bath) and cover the bather's shoulder with a bath lid. Thereby, a sauna bath can be enjoyed with the steam generated in the bathtub. However, in the case of this sauna bath method, it is a simple method to the last, and the steam temperature is insufficient, so that it is not sufficiently effective.

  On the other hand, the thing which formed the sauna space using the whole bathroom and was able to perform a sauna bath is proposed. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a sauna device that sprays mist from the vicinity of the feet of a “washing place” in a bathroom.

  However, the above-described sauna device of Patent Document 1 has several problems because the sauna space is formed using the entire bathroom. The first problem is that the wall surface of the bathroom condenses and is likely to cause mold and the like. The second problem is that the entire bath interior becomes hot and humid, and it is easy for a bather of a sauna bath to feel breathless. Furthermore, the third problem is that steam is supplied to the entire bathroom, so the waiting time until the temperature / humidity suitable for the sauna is reached is long. At the same time, as a fourth problem, the amount of electric energy and water resources used is increased due to the longer waiting time.

On the other hand, a bathtub sauna apparatus is disclosed in which steam is filled in a bathtub and a user can enter a bathtub in a state where the user enters the bathtub and protrudes the head from the lid of the bathtub (Patent Document 2). According to this bathtub sauna apparatus, the problem of dew condensation on the wall surface of the bathroom can be solved, and further, the breathing difficulty of the bather can be solved. Compared with the case where the bathroom is a sauna space, the waiting time until the bath becomes suitable for a sauna bath is much shorter, and electric energy and water resources can be greatly saved.
JP 2001-276169 A JP 2003-275271 A

As a result of carrying out an independent study on such a bathtub sauna device, the present inventor has room for further improvement with respect to a rise time at the start of operation and a decrease in temperature when the bathtub lid is opened during use. I knew that there was.
That is, it is desirable that a state in which a comfortable sauna bath can be performed in a short time as soon as possible after the operation of the bathtub sauna apparatus is started is rapidly formed. In addition, even when the temperature in the bathtub is temporarily decreased because the user opened the bathtub in the middle of the sauna bath, it is desirable to return to the original temperature as quickly as possible.

  The present invention has been made on the basis of recognition of such a problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a steam generator capable of promptly shifting to a steady state even when the temperature is lowered during operation or during use, and the steam generator. It is in providing the bathtub sauna system provided with.

In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the present invention, a suction port capable of sucking external air, and steam generating means for heating and humidifying the air sucked through the suction port to generate steam And a blowout port that discharges the generated steam, and a control unit that feedback-controls the steam generation unit based on the temperature at the blowout port,
The control unit performs feedback control based on a first upper limit threshold for a predetermined time after the steam generation means starts generating the steam, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, A steam generator is provided that performs feedback control based on a second upper threshold that is lower than the upper threshold.

  According to the said structure, even if it starts driving | running from the state which the inside of the bathtub has cooled by raising an upper limit threshold value at the time of a driving | operation start, it can raise temperature rapidly and can form a comfortable sauna space rapidly.

  Further, the control unit executes feedback control based on a first lower limit threshold value lower than the second upper limit threshold value during the predetermined time, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, If the feedback control based on the second lower threshold value lower than the lower threshold value of 1 is executed, the bath can be quickly warmed without the steam discharged from the outlet becoming too hot. .

  Further, the control unit executes feedback control based on a first lower limit threshold value that is higher than the second upper limit threshold value during the predetermined time, and after the predetermined time elapses, If the feedback control based on the second lower threshold value lower than the upper threshold value is executed, the steam discharged from the outlet can be maintained at a high temperature without becoming too hot, The bathtub can be warmed up quickly.

  Further, the steam generating means has a heater for forming hot water for heating and humidifying the air, and the control unit energizes the heater when the temperature of the outlet becomes equal to or higher than the upper limit threshold value. If the heater is stopped and energization of the heater is started when the temperature of the outlet becomes equal to or lower than the lower limit threshold, the temperature of the steam discharged from the outlet can be maintained within a predetermined range.

  Further, if the controller is configured to start energization of the heater when the amount of decrease in temperature at the suction port exceeds a predetermined range when the steam generating means is generating the steam, However, even when the temperature in the bathtub is temporarily lowered because the bathtub is opened in the middle of the sauna bath, it is possible to quickly detect the temperature drop and immediately return to the original temperature.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a suction port capable of sucking external air and a pump for injecting hot water, and the air sucked through the suction port is heated and humidified to generate steam. A steam generating means for generating, a blow-off port for discharging the generated steam, and a control unit for controlling the pump, wherein the control unit is configured so that the steam generating means starts generating the steam. The rotation speed of the pump is controlled to be the first rotation speed during a predetermined time, and the second rotation speed is lower than the first rotation speed after the predetermined time has elapsed. There is provided a steam generator characterized by being controlled to be

  According to the said structure, even if it starts driving | running from the state which the inside of the bathtub has cooled by raising the rotation speed of a pump at the time of a driving | operation start, it can heat up rapidly and can form a comfortable sauna space rapidly.

  Here, the steam generating means has a heater for forming the hot water, and the control unit has a temperature decrease amount at the suction port within a predetermined range when the steam generating means is generating the steam. If the heater starts energizing the heater, if the temperature in the bathtub drops temporarily because the user opened the bathtub in the middle of the sauna bath, the temperature drop is quickly It is possible to immediately return to the original temperature upon detection.

  On the other hand, according to still another aspect of the present invention, a bathtub and any one of the above steam generators are provided, the steam generator sucks air in the bathtub from the suction port, and the air outlet A steam room sauna system is provided, wherein the steam is discharged into the bathtub.

  According to the above configuration, it is possible to provide a bathtub sauna system that can quickly shift to a steady state even when the temperature is lowered during operation start or during use.

  In the present specification, “steam” is not necessarily limited to water vapor of 100 degrees Celsius, and includes steam at a temperature other than 100 degrees Celsius, for example, 40 degrees Celsius in the bathtub.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, even when temperature falls at the time of a start of operation or in the middle of use, the steam generator which can transfer to a steady state rapidly, and the bathtub sauna system provided with this steam generator can be provided.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the configuration of a main part of a steam generator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  The steam generator 11 includes a tank 30, a circulation pump 40, and a control unit 80. The tank 30 includes a storage unit 31 in which water W is stored, and a heat exchange unit 32 that forms a steam generation space above the storage unit 31. A heater 37 protrudes into the storage unit 31 to heat the water W and form hot water.

A suction port 71 that sucks air from the outside and a blower port 72 that discharges steam are provided in the upper part of the heat exchange unit 32. Moreover, the nozzle 36 is provided in the side wall of the heat exchange part 32, and the water (warm water) sent from the circulation pump 40 is sprayed in a spray form. A separator 73 is provided facing the nozzle.
The temperature of the air sucked from the suction port 71 is detected by the temperature sensor 110, while the temperature of the steam discharged from the outlet 72 is detected by the temperature sensor 111. As these temperature sensors, various types such as a thermistor and a thermocouple can be used as appropriate.

The operation of the steam generator 11 of the present embodiment will be described as follows.
That is, the hot water heated by the heater 37 in the storage unit 31 is sucked by the circulation pump 40 and sprayed from the nozzle 36 provided above the heat exchange unit 32 toward the separator 73 in a spray form. Gas-liquid separation occurs when a mixture of air and liquid collides with the separator 73, and only saturated water vapor is released from the heat exchanging unit 32 through the air outlet 72.

More specifically, the hot water circulated to the injection nozzle 36 by the pump 40 is injected at high speed from the plurality of injection holes formed in the nozzle 36 into the heat exchange unit 32. Due to the friction associated with this injection, external air is drawn into the heat exchanging section 32 through the suction port 71 as indicated by the arrow A.
This suction is caused by the following mechanism. That is, kinetic energy is given to the air in the heat exchanging section 32 by the hot water flow S injected into the heat exchanging section 32 and moves in the direction indicated by the arrow B. As a result, a negative pressure is generated in the vicinity of the suction port 71, and air can be taken in via the suction port 71 by this negative pressure.

  Since this sucked air runs side by side with the spray-like hot water flow S in the heat exchanging section 32, it is heated and humidified. The mixture of heated and humidified air and hot water collides with the separator 73 and the side wall of the heat exchanging unit 32 to cause gas-liquid separation, and is separated into saturated water vapor and water (hot water). The separated water falls into the storage unit 31 and is collected. On the other hand, saturated water vapor is discharged through the outlet 72 as indicated by arrows B and C.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view illustrating a usage mode of a bathtub sauna system using the steam generator 11.
That is, the steam generator 11 is detachably or integrally installed on the rim (edge) RM on the foot position side of the bathtub 10 with a part protruding from the upper surface and the remaining part hanging down. . Further, as shown in the figure, a cool air device 12 may be provided on the bathroom wall slightly above the steam generator 11 with the air blowing port facing the bathtub 10 side.

  A suction port 71 and a blow-off port 72 are provided at a portion protruding from the rim surface RM of the steam generator 11, and the air in the bathtub 10 is sucked into an appropriate temperature (for example, toward the hot water reservoir (inside the bathtub) of the bathtub 10). Steam (mist) of around 40 ° C. is injected. When the user is ready to operate the steam generator 11, as shown in FIG. 2, the user enters the bathtub 10, closes the bath lid FT, and takes a posture of taking out the head from a part thereof. The operation of the steam generator 11 is commanded from a remote controller (not shown). Thereby, the hot water reservoir part of the bathtub 10 can be used as a sauna space, and a sauna bath (perspiration bath) can be enjoyed while being in the bathtub. In addition, by providing the cape KP that covers between the neck of the user (the bather) and the bath lid FT, leakage of steam can be prevented and the humidified warm bath atmosphere of the sauna space in the bathtub 10 can be more reliably maintained. .

According to the present invention, in this bathtub sauna system, the temperature in the bathtub can be rapidly raised (returned) to the target temperature even when the operation is started or when the bath lid FT is opened during use. it can. Hereinafter, operation | movement of the steam generator 11 of this embodiment is demonstrated in detail.
The steam generator 11 of the present embodiment controls energization to the heater 37 based on the detection result of the temperature sensor 111 provided at the air outlet 72. That is, the control unit 80 receives the detection signal from the temperature sensor 111 and compares it with a predetermined set value, thereby feedback-controlling the energization to the heater 37.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the control performed in the steam generator 11 of this embodiment. That is, in the present embodiment, after the operation is started, first, control based on the first temperature setting is performed for a predetermined time as start-up control (step S104), and thereafter, based on the second temperature setting as steady control. Control is executed (step S106).

FIG. 4 is a graph for explaining steady control and start-up control. In these graphs, the horizontal axis represents the elapsed time from the start of operation, and the vertical axis represents the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 111.
FIG. 4A shows steady control. In the steady control, a steady state in which the temperature of the sauna space in the bathtub 10 is generally stable is formed. At this time, the control unit 80 has a lower limit threshold L and an upper limit threshold H as set values. When the detected value of the temperature sensor 111 at the air outlet 72 is equal to or lower than the lower limit threshold L, energization to the heater 37 is started, and when the detected value is equal to or higher than the upper limit threshold H, the energization to the heater 37 is stopped. In this way, the temperature of the steam discharged from the outlet 72 is controlled between the lower threshold L and the upper threshold H. During control, some temperature overshoot and undershoot may occur, but the temperature of the steam at the outlet 72 in the steady state is controlled within the temperature range R.
If a specific example is given, when maintaining the average temperature in the bathtub 10 at 45 degreeC, the lower limit threshold L in the temperature sensor 111 can be set to 50 degreeC, and can be set with the upper limit threshold value 52 degreeC.

On the other hand, FIG.4 (b) illustrates a mode that it transfers to starting control from the starting control implemented at the time of a driving | operation start.
When the operation of the steam generator 11 is started, first, as a start-up control, a threshold value Hs higher than the upper limit threshold value H in a steady state is set as an upper limit threshold value for a predetermined time Ts from the start of the operation. The Compared to a steady state where the temperature of the sauna space is stable at the target value, the temperature environment in the bathtub 10 is greatly different in the initial operation state where the steam is not sufficiently filled. When the same control as the steady control (FIG. 4 (a)) is performed for such different temperature environments, the response is delayed in the hot water storage type steam generator until the temperature of the sauna space rises to the target value. Takes time.

  That is, since the inside of the bathtub 10 is cold at the start of operation, even if the heater 37 is energized and the temperature of the steam at the outlet 72 of the steam generator 11 reaches the upper limit threshold value H in the steady state, the bathtub 10 In many cases, the average temperature has not yet reached the target value. That is, if the heater 37 is turned off at the upper limit threshold value H in the steady state immediately after the start of operation, the steam temperature starts to decrease while the average temperature in the bathtub 10 has not yet reached the target value, and the sauna space is reduced. It takes time to reach the proper temperature.

On the other hand, in this embodiment, at the start of operation, as an activation control, the upper limit threshold value is set to a threshold value Hs higher than the steady state for a predetermined time Ts, and the heater 37 is energized. Let it continue. By doing so, as shown in the figure, steam having a temperature higher than the steady state can be sent into the bathtub 10 and the inside of the bathtub 10 can be rapidly heated. As a result, the average temperature in the bathtub 10 can be quickly reached the target value, and a comfortable sauna space can be quickly formed.
For example, when the target value of the average temperature in the bathtub is 45 ° C., the upper limit threshold value H of the steady control is set to 52 ° C. The upper threshold value Hs can be set to 55 ° C. for start-up control for 2 minutes. By setting the start-up control in this way, the average temperature in the bathtub can be quickly raised to 45 ° C.

  Next, FIG. 5 is a graph for explaining a second specific example of the activation control. That is, FIG. 9A shows steady control, and FIG. 9B shows a state where the startup control is shifted to steady control.

  Also in this specific example, the activation control is executed for a predetermined time Ts from the start of operation. In this start-up control, a lower limit threshold Ls higher than the lower limit threshold L for steady control is set, and an upper limit threshold Hs higher than the upper limit threshold H for steady control is set. This is particularly effective when the target temperature is not so high or when the heat capacity of the bathtub 10 is large. That is, in order to heat the inside of the bathtub 10 rapidly, the upper limit threshold value in the activation control may be set as high as possible. However, if the temperature of the steam discharged from the steam generator 11 becomes too high, the user may feel hot, such as when the user enters the bathtub 10 early. From this point of view, it is not desirable to make the upper limit threshold value Hs in start-up control too high.

  Therefore, in this specific example, by setting the lower limit threshold value Ls higher in the start-up control, the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 111 reaches the upper limit threshold value Hs after the operation is started and the energization to the heater 37 is turned off. Even after the steam temperature starts to decrease, the energization to the heater 37 can be started again at the set value Ls before the steam temperature becomes too low. As a result, the inside of the bathtub 10 can be quickly heated to an appropriate temperature without generating too hot steam.

  When a specific example is given, for example, when the target value of the average temperature in the bathtub is 43.5 ° C., the lower limit threshold L of the steady control is 48.5 ° C., the upper limit threshold H is 50.5 ° C., The lower limit threshold value Ls for starting control for the first two minutes from the start of operation can be set to 50.0 ° C., and the upper limit threshold value Hs can be set to 55.0 ° C. By setting and controlling the start-up in this way, the average temperature in the bathtub can be quickly raised to 43.5 ° C.

  FIG. 6 is a graph for explaining a third specific example of the activation control. That is, FIG. 9A shows steady control, and FIG. 9B shows a state where the startup control is shifted to steady control.

  Also in this specific example, the activation control is executed for a predetermined time Ts after the start of operation. And in starting control, the lower limit threshold value Ls higher than the upper limit threshold value H of steady control is set.

  This specific example is also effective when the target temperature is not so high or the heat capacity of the bathtub 10 is large, as in the specific example described above with reference to FIG. That is, by setting the lower limit threshold value Ls of the start control to be higher than the upper limit threshold value H of the steady control, the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 111 reaches the upper limit threshold value Hs after the operation is started and the heater 37 is energized. Even after the steam is turned off and the steam temperature starts to drop, the heater 37 can be energized again at the set value Ls before the steam temperature becomes too low. As a result, the inside of the bathtub 10 can be quickly heated to an appropriate temperature without generating too hot steam.

  For example, when the target value of the average temperature in the bathtub is 42.0 ° C., the lower limit threshold value L for steady control is 47.0 ° C., the upper limit threshold value H is 49.0 ° C., The lower limit threshold value Ls for starting control for the first two minutes from the start of operation can be set to 50.0 ° C., and the upper limit threshold value Hs can be set to 55.0 ° C. By setting the start-up control in this way, the average temperature in the bathtub can be quickly raised to 42.0 ° C.

FIG. 7 is a schematic view illustrating the remote control operation panel of the bathtub sauna system using the steam generator of this embodiment.
This operation panel includes a “preparation switch” 140 for instructing the start and stop of a work for preparing a steam generation state for a sauna bath (hereinafter also referred to as “mist operation”), during preparation for the mist operation and LEDs 141 and 142 for displaying the state of completion of preparation (the LED indicating the current state is turned on or blinking, and is turned off at the time of mist operation), a “mist” switch 143 for instructing start and stop of mist operation, and the state of mist operation LED 144 (lights up during mist operation), “mist +”, “mist −” temperature setting switches 145 and 146 for instructing adjustment of the set temperature (mist temperature) of the generated steam, and the mist temperature A plurality of LEDs 147 indicating high and low settings (in this embodiment, “high”, “high / medium”, “medium”, “medium / low”, and “low”) Turning on the D) is provided. Thereby, the user of the sauna bath can instruct the start and stop of the preparation for the mist operation, the start of the mist operation, and the adjustment of the mist temperature.

Further, a “cool wind” switch 148 for selecting a cool wind operation mode and a plurality of LEDs 149 for displaying the cool wind operation mode are provided on the operation surface. Thereby, the user of a sauna bath can command a cool breeze mode suitably.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart of an operation for executing start-up control and steady control.
That is, when the sequence is started, “0” is stored in the “temperature switched” box (step S202), and it is determined whether preparation is completed (step S204). Here, “preparation” includes a process of heating the water W stored in the storage unit 31 of the tank 30 to a predetermined temperature by the heater 37. In addition, before that, if necessary, water is stored in the tank and heated to a high temperature to execute sterilization of the tank 30 and the circulation system, or replace water (hot water) in the tank. Processing is also executed as appropriate.

  When these processes are executed and the water W in the reservoir 31 of the tank is heated to a predetermined temperature, it is determined that the preparation is complete (step S204: yes), and “preparation complete” on the remote control operation panel illustrated in FIG. The LED 142 is turned on. In addition, in the heating of the water W of the storage part 31 in a preparation stage, control is performed by the temperature sensor (refer FIG. 20) provided in the storage part 31. FIG.

  On the other hand, when the preparation is not completed (step S204: no), the process returns to step S202, and the “preparing” LED 141 on the remote control operation panel illustrated in FIG.

  Next, the timer 1 and the timer 2 are reset, and the circulation pump 40 is stopped (step S206). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the mist switch 143 (see FIG. 7) has been pressed (step S208). If the mist switch 143 has not been pressed, the process returns to step S206 and the process is repeated. When the mist switch 143 is pressed, the circulation pump 40 is operated (step S210), and it is determined whether or not the timer 1 has elapsed for 2 minutes or more (step S212).

  If the timer 1 has not passed 2 minutes or more, the threshold value of the table 1 is selected (step S220). This is the threshold value used in the activation control. On the other hand, when the timer 1 has elapsed for 2 minutes or more, it is determined whether or not the “temperature switched” box is “1” (step S214). If the “temperature switched” box is “1”, the process proceeds to step S220, and a threshold value for activation control is selected (step S220). If the “temperature switched” box is not “1”, “1” is selected. "Is stored (step S216), and the threshold value of the table 2 is selected (step S218). This is the threshold value for steady control.

  That is, according to the steps so far, a threshold value for starting control is selected for 2 minutes from the start of operation (pressing of the mist switch 143), and a threshold value for steady control is selected thereafter.

  After an appropriate time, the temperature control sequence of the water W of the storage part 31 is started. That is, it is determined whether or not the detected value of the temperature sensor 111 at the outlet is equal to or lower than the lower limit threshold value (step S222). If it is equal to or lower than the lower threshold value, the heater 37 is energized (step S224). If it is larger than the lower threshold value, it is determined whether it is equal to or higher than the upper threshold value (step S226).

  If it is equal to or greater than the upper limit threshold, the energization to the heater 37 is stopped (step S228), and it is determined whether or not the mist switch 143 has been pressed (step S230). If pressed, the process returns to step S206 to stop the mist. If the mist switch 143 has not been pressed, it is determined whether or not the timer 2 has reached 15 minutes (step S232). If the timer 2 has not reached 15 minutes, the process returns to step S210 to continue the generation of mist. When the timer 2 reaches 15 minutes, the process returns to step S206 to stop the mist. This is an auto-off mechanism that automatically stops after 15 minutes from the occurrence of mist.

  As described above, according to this specific example, when the mist switch 143 is pressed and the operation is started, the threshold value of the table 1 is selected for 2 minutes and the start control is executed, and when 2 minutes have passed. The threshold value in Table 2 is selected and the routine proceeds to steady control. As a result, as described above with reference to FIGS. 3 to 6, the inside of the bathtub 10 can be rapidly heated to the target temperature.

  Specific examples of threshold values of Table 1 and Table 2 used in this specific example are shown below as a table.

  Of these threshold values, the remote control LED display “high” corresponds to the specific example described above with reference to FIG. “High / Medium”, “Medium”, and “Medium / Low” correspond to the specific example described above with reference to FIG. On the other hand, when the remote control LED display is “low”, it is considered that the user desires and selects a particularly low temperature. Therefore, in this case, the threshold value of the start control is set to be the same as the threshold value of the steady control so that the “heat” is not felt at the start of operation (mist blowing).

  As described above, by appropriately switching the threshold value of the activation control according to the target temperature, it is comfortable for the user and can be quickly raised to the target temperature.

FIG. 9 is a graph showing the results of an experiment conducted by the inventor.
That is, here, the case where the start control is applied based on the flowchart shown in FIG. 8 (represented as “present invention” in FIG. 9) and the case where the start control is not applied (“comparative example” in FIG. 9) The rise change of the temperature in the bathtub 10 was measured for each of (shown).

  Here, in the case of the “present invention”, the lower limit threshold value Ls for starting control is 50.0 ° C., the upper limit threshold value Hs is 55.0 ° C., and the lower limit threshold value L for steady control is 44.5 ° C. The upper limit threshold value H was 46.5 ° C. On the other hand, in the case of the “comparative example”, the start-up control was not performed, and heating of the bath 10 was started with the lower limit threshold value L of steady control set to 40.6 ° C. and the upper limit threshold value H set to 44.4 ° C.

In FIG. 9, the part surrounded by the alternate long and short dash line represents the rise in temperature immediately after the start of operation. In the case of “Comparative Example”, the temperature of the steam at the outlet 72 of the steam generator 11 exceeds the upper limit threshold H of steady control in about 1 minute from the start of operation, and the heater goes to 37. The energization of ceased and the temperature in the bathtub 10 began to drop.
On the other hand, when the start control according to the “present invention” was performed, energization to the heater 37 continued for 2 minutes from the start of operation. As a result, the temperature in the bathtub 10 continued to rise for about 3 minutes, and a comfortable sauna space could be quickly launched.
In the case of the present invention, the temperature fluctuation range is suppressed more than that of the “comparative example” by making the difference between the lower limit threshold value and the upper limit threshold value of the steady control narrower than that of the “comparative example”. ing. That is, according to the present invention, the temperature is rapidly raised by setting the threshold value higher in the start-up control, and the difference between the lower limit threshold value and the upper limit threshold value is reduced in the steady control. By setting, temperature fluctuation can be suppressed and precise control becomes possible.

Next, a second mode of start control implemented in the present invention will be described.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a second form of activation control.

  That is, in the present embodiment, the rotation speed of the circulation pump 40 is increased as compared with the steady control as the startup control. For example, when the rotation speed of the pump 40 in steady control is 3400 rotations per minute, the rotation speed of the pump 40 is 4000 rotations per minute in start-up control. Moreover, this starting control is performed, for example, for 3 minutes from the start of operation.

  By increasing the rotation speed of the circulation pump 40, the flow rate of the hot water flow S discharged from the nozzle 36 increases, and the flow rate of the air flow represented by arrows A to C in FIG. 1 also increases. That is, the flow rate of mist discharged from the blower outlet 72 also increases. As a result, even when the temperature of the bathtub 10 is low at the start of operation, it can be quickly heated to the target temperature by rapidly feeding a large amount of mist.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of this embodiment.
When the “preparation” described above with reference to FIG. 8 is completed, first, the timer 2 and the timer 3 are reset, and the circulation pump 40 is stopped (step S402). And it is determined whether the mist switch 143 (refer FIG. 7) was pushed (step S404). If the mist switch 143 has not been pressed, the process returns to step S402 and the process is repeated. When the mist switch 143 is pressed, the circulation pump 40 is operated (step S406), and it is determined whether or not the timer 3 has elapsed for 3 minutes or more (step S408).

  If the timer 3 has not elapsed for more than 3 minutes, the target rotational speed of the circulation pump 40 is set to 4000 revolutions per minute (step S410). On the other hand, if the timer 3 has elapsed for 3 minutes or more, the target rotational speed of the pump 40 is set to 3400 revolutions per minute (step S412).

  Then, the rotational speed of the circulation pump 40 is controlled based on the set value of the target rotational speed determined in this way (step S414). By the steps so far, the pump 40 is controlled to rotate at 4000 rpm for start-up control for 3 minutes from the start of operation (pressing the mist switch 143), and thereafter, the pump 40 is controlled to rotate at 3400 rpm for steady control. Is done.

  At this time, the temperature control sequence of the water W in the storage unit 31 may be the steady control, or may be combined with the startup control in which the temperature threshold value is changed as described above with reference to FIGS.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the mist switch 143 has been pressed (step S414). If pressed, the process returns to step S402 to stop the mist. If the mist switch 143 has not been pressed, it is determined whether or not the timer 2 has reached 15 minutes (step S418). If the timer 2 has not reached 15 minutes, the process returns to step S406 to continue the generation of mist. When the timer 2 reaches 15 minutes, the process returns to step S402 to stop the mist. This is also an auto-off mechanism that automatically stops after 15 minutes from the occurrence of mist.

  As described above, according to this specific example, when the mist switch 143 is pressed and the operation is started, the pump 40 is operated by increasing the rotation speed of the pump 40 to 4000 rotations per minute for 3 minutes. The speed is lowered to 3400 revolutions per minute and the control shifts to steady control. As a result, a large amount of mist can be sent into the bathtub 10 immediately after the start of operation, and the inside of the bathtub 10 can be quickly heated to the target temperature.

FIG. 12 is a graph showing the results of an experiment conducted by the inventor.
That is, here, when the start control is applied based on the flowchart shown in FIG. 11 (represented as “present invention” in FIG. 12) and when the start control is not applied (“comparative example” in FIG. 12). The rise change of the temperature in the bathtub 10 was measured for each of (shown).

  Here, in the case of the “present invention”, the rotational speed of the circulation pump 40 was set to 4000 rpm for 3 minutes from the start of operation, and then decreased to 3400 rpm. On the other hand, in the case of “Comparative Example”, the rotational speed of the circulation pump 40 was maintained at 3400 revolutions per minute from the start of operation.

Here, in the “invention” case, the lower limit threshold value L of steady control is 44.5 ° C. and the upper limit threshold value H is 46.5 ° C., and in the case of “comparative example”, steady control is performed. The lower threshold L was 40.6 ° C., and the upper threshold H was 44.4 ° C.
In FIG. 12, the portion surrounded by the alternate long and short dash line represents the rise in temperature immediately after the start of operation. In the case of “Comparative Example”, the temperature of the steam at the outlet 72 of the steam generator 11 exceeds the upper limit threshold H of steady control in about 1 minute from the start of operation, and the heater goes to 37. The energization of ceased and the temperature in the bathtub 10 began to drop.
On the other hand, when the start control according to the present invention is performed, the temperature in the bathtub 10 continues to rise by increasing the rotational speed of the circulation pump 40 to 4000 rpm for 3 minutes from the start of operation. We were able to quickly launch a comfortable sauna space.

  In the start-up control, the target temperature can be reached more quickly by increasing the number of revolutions of the pump and increasing the temperature threshold as described above with reference to FIGS.

Next, in the bathtub sauna system of the present invention, the return control for quickly returning the temperature in the bathtub 10 to the target value even when the user opens the bath lid in the middle of the sauna bath will be described.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the return control in the present embodiment.
That is, in a state where the operation is started (step S502) and the mist is released, it is determined whether or not the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 110 of the suction port 71 has decreased by 2 ° C. or more, for example (step S504). When the temperature falls by 2 ° C. or more, energization to the heater 37 is started (step S506). If not, the operation is continued as it is, and the temperature control between the upper threshold value and the lower threshold value is executed based on the detected value of the temperature sensor 111 at the outlet 72 (step S508). . Then, step S504 is repeated. In this way, by referring to the detection value of the temperature sensor 110 at the suction port, it is possible to quickly detect a temperature drop in the bathtub 10 and return the temperature.

  For example, in the state where the user enters the bathtub 10 and the steady control is being performed, when the bath lid FT is opened and the temperature in the bathtub 10 rapidly decreases, the temperature sensor 111 of the outlet 72 There is a delay before the detected temperature becomes lower than the lower threshold value and the heater 37 is energized. Therefore, although the temperature in the bathtub 10 is low, the heater 37 is in an off state, and the time required for the temperature in the bathtub to return to the target value becomes long.

  On the other hand, if the detection value by the temperature sensor 110 of the suction port 71 is referred to, the temperature drop in the bathtub 10 can be detected quickly. That is, it is difficult to detect a decrease in the temperature in the bathtub 10 at the air outlet 72, whereas the temperature in the bathtub 10 can be measured more directly at the suction port 71. Therefore, for example, when the temperature sensor 110 of the suction port 71 is lowered by 2 ° C., the heater 37 may be energized immediately unless the detected value of the temperature sensor 111 of the outlet 72 reaches the upper limit threshold value. If it does in this way, the fall of the temperature in the bathtub 10 can be detected rapidly, and it can be heated up rapidly.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a specific example of the operation incorporating the return control of the present embodiment.
When the “preparation” described above with reference to FIG. 8 is completed, first, the circulation pump 40 is stopped, and “0” is stored in the “open bath lid” box (step S602). At this time, the timer 2 is also reset. Then, it is determined whether or not the mist switch 143 (see FIG. 7) has been pressed (step S604). If the mist switch 143 has not been pressed, the process returns to step S602 and the process is repeated. When the mist switch 143 is pressed, the circulation pump 40 is operated (step S606), and it is determined whether or not the detected value of the temperature sensor (thermistor) 110 of the suction port 71 has decreased by 2 ° C. or more (step S608). .

  When the temperature falls by 2 ° C. or more, “1” is stored in the “open bath lid” box (step S610). Then, it is further determined whether or not the detected value of the temperature sensor (thermistor) 111 at the outlet 72 is equal to or lower than the lower limit threshold value (step S612). If it is below the lower limit threshold, energization of the heater is started (step S618). If it is not less than the lower threshold, it is determined whether it is greater than or equal to the upper threshold (step S614).

  If the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 111 at the outlet is equal to or higher than the upper threshold value, “0” is stored in the “open bath lid” box (step S620), and energization of the heater 37 is stopped (step S622).

On the other hand, if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 111 is not equal to or higher than the upper threshold value, it is determined whether or not “1” is stored in the “open bath lid” box (step S616). If “1” is stored, energization of the heater 37 is started (step S618).
When the temperature of the suction port temperature sensor 110 is lowered by, for example, 2 ° C. or more by the above steps, even if the detected temperature of the temperature sensor 111 at the outlet is higher than the lower limit threshold, the heater 37 Is energized.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the mist switch 143 has been pressed (step S624). If the mist switch 143 has been pressed, the process returns to step S602 to stop the mist. If the mist switch 143 has not been pressed, it is determined whether or not the timer 2 has reached 15 minutes (step S626). If the timer 2 has not reached 15 minutes, the process returns to step S606 to continue generation of mist. When the timer 2 reaches 15 minutes, the process returns to step S602 to stop the mist. This is also an auto-off mechanism that automatically stops after 15 minutes from the occurrence of mist.

  As described above, according to this example, after the mist switch 143 is pressed and the operation is started, the bath lid is opened, and the temperature of the temperature sensor 110 at the suction port decreases by a predetermined temperature, for example, 2 ° C. or more. In this case, even if the detected value of the temperature sensor at the outlet is higher than the lower limit threshold value, energization to the heater 37 can be resumed, and the inside of the bathtub 10 can be quickly returned to the target temperature.

FIG. 15 is a graph showing the results of a test conducted by the present inventor.
Here, immediately after the operation is started and the detection value of the temperature sensor 111 at the outlet 72 is equal to or higher than the upper limit threshold and the energization to the heater 37 is stopped, the bath lid FT is opened for 20 seconds, and the bath lid is again opened. FT was closed.

  FIG. 15A shows a temperature change when the return control of this embodiment is not executed, and FIG. 15B shows a temperature change when the return control of this embodiment is executed.

  As shown in FIG. 15 (a), the temperature in the bathtub decreases immediately after opening the bath lid FT four minutes after starting operation, and at the same time, the temperature detected by the temperature sensor (thermistor) 110 at the suction port. It can be seen that the value also decreases. On the other hand, a clear change is not seen in the detected temperature of the temperature sensor (thermistor) 111 of a blower outlet. And it turns out that it takes about 2 minutes until the temperature in a bathtub returns to a steady value (44 degreeC) after opening a bath lid.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 15B, when the return control of this embodiment is executed, the temperature returns to the target temperature (44 ° C.) in less than 3 minutes after opening the bath lid. Yes. That is, by referring to the detection value of the temperature sensor 110 at the suction port, it is possible to quickly detect a decrease in the temperature in the bathtub and quickly return to the target temperature.

  In the present embodiment, control for increasing the rotational speed of the circulation pump 40 is executed simultaneously with or in place of the control for starting energization of the heater 37 in accordance with the decrease in the detection value of the temperature sensor 110 at the suction port. May be. By increasing the rotational speed of the pump 40, as described above with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, it is possible to rapidly send mist into the bathtub 10 and quickly return to the target temperature.

  Next, as an embodiment of the present invention, a steam generator 11 capable of executing the startup control or the return control described above and a bathtub sauna system including the same will be described.

FIG. 16 is a perspective conceptual view illustrating a bathtub sauna system provided with the steam generator of the present invention.
A bathtub 10 is provided in the bathroom BR. And the cool air apparatus 12 is provided in the bathroom wall surface a little above this steam generator 11 with the ventilation opening facing the bathtub 10 side.

  In addition, a power supply box 13 that receives supply of commercial power from the outside is installed behind the ceiling of the bathroom BR, and heater power is supplied from the power supply to the steam generator 11. Further, the power supply box 13 receives an operation signal from a remote controller 14 installed at an appropriate place on the wall surface in the bathroom, and transmits an operation signal based on the operation signal to the steam generator 11 and the cool air device 12. Is configured to do.

  The steam generator 11 forms a substantially rectangular parallelepiped box as shown in FIGS. FIG. 17 is a view (hereinafter referred to as a front view) viewed from the user (tub side) of the sauna bath, FIG. 18 is a left side view thereof, and FIG. 19 is a right side view thereof.

  The steam generator 11 according to the present embodiment includes a waterproof cover 20 that functions as a central casing, a ventilation duct 21 installed on the upper side of the waterproof cover 20, and a ventilation duct 21. And a top cover 22 for covering. Inside the waterproof cover 20, there is provided a tank 30 that is integrally formed so as to divide the upper and lower sides via a step portion 30 a and to form an integral space. Among the tanks 30, a tank part below the step part 30 a forms a storage part 31 for storing hot water, and an upper tank part forms a heat exchange part 32 for heat exchange. An in-tank filter 34 is placed on the step portion 30a.

  In addition, the storage part 31 and the heat exchange part 32 are not necessarily limited to what is shape | molded integrally as mentioned above, and you may make it mutually assemble | attach and form an integral accommodation space after each shape | molding separately. Alternatively, after forming each separately, it may be installed as a separate body, and both tank spaces may be connected via the communication portion.

  The left side wall in FIG. 17 of the heat exchange part 32 is formed with a taper, and the right side wall facing it is formed upright. Of these, the taper wall is provided with a water injection nozzle 35 for injecting water into the tank, as will be described later. On the inner surface of the upright wall, as described above, hot water is circulated by the pump into the tank. A nozzle 36 for injecting it is installed.

  The reservoir 31 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, and a heater (seeds heater) 37 for heating water in the tank is installed on one side wall (the left side wall in FIG. 17). The heater 37 is installed through the side wall in an airtight state so that the heating part is located inside the tank and the terminal part is located outside the tank. The electrode part located outside the tank is hermetically covered with a heater cover 38.

  Thereby, the electrode part of the heater 37 can be airtightly covered with the double waterproof section. That is, the primary waterproof compartment is formed between the waterproof cover 20 and the reservoir 31, and the interior of the heater cover 37 forms the secondary waterproof compartment. The heater 37 is more reliably protected by the double waterproof section.

  Moreover, in order to ensure the waterproof performance of this waterproof section, it is important to reliably release the internal pressure rising due to hot water to the outside. For this reason, in the present embodiment, a vent filter having a microporous membrane is provided in order to reliably release the internal pressure rising in the secondary waterproof compartment to the primary waterproof compartment. Furthermore, in order to release the internal pressure of the primary waterproof compartment to the outside, a piped cable is used as the power cable 63 described later. By this. Using the hollow portion of the pipe, the internal pressure can be released to the outside through the power supply box 13.

  By energizing the heater 37, the water in the reservoir 31 is directly heated. A circulation port 31a is formed on the other side wall (the right side wall in FIG. 17) of the reservoir 31, and a pump filter 39 is attached to the entrance of the circulation port 31a. As shown in FIG. 17, a circulation pump 40 is installed outside the side wall where the circulation port 31a is formed. The suction port of the circulation pump 40 is airtightly connected to the circulation port 31a, and the discharge hose 41 is connected to one end of the discharge port. The other end of the discharge hose 41 rises upward (see FIG. 19), reaches a predetermined position on the side wall of the heat exchanging unit 32, and is airtightly inserted into the side wall at this position and coupled to the nozzle 36 described above. For this reason, when the circulation pump 40 is driven, the hot water in the storage unit 31 reaches the nozzle 36 through the circulation port 31a, the circulation pump 40, and the discharge hose 41, and is injected from the nozzle 36 into the heat exchange unit 32. Is done.

  Further, a discharge port 31 b is formed at the bottom of the storage portion 31. This discharge port is connected to the suction port of the drain valve 50 (three-way valve) below the storage unit 31. In addition to the suction port, the drain valve 50 is provided with two drain ports, one of which forms a normal drain path, and reaches the normal drain port 52 via the check valve 51. The normal drain 52 (see FIG. 19) is connected to the drain pipe. The other drainage port constitutes an emergency drainage channel used in an emergency, and is always opened through the emergency drainage port 53 (see FIG. 19), for example, toward the drainage space under the bathtub.

  For this reason, by controlling the electromagnetic part of the drain valve 50 with a control signal, it is possible to switch to three states of closed (drainage off), open 1 (normal drainage), and open 2 (emergency drainage).

  As shown in FIGS. 17 to 19, the bottom surface of the waterproof cover 20 is formed in a step shape through a step portion 20a at a substantially central position, and the normal drain port 52 and emergency drainage are formed in the step portion 20a. The mouth 53 is attached sideways. This horizontal installation facilitates installation work and maintenance management.

  On the other hand, a water injection mechanism is also provided below the storage unit 31 in addition to the drainage mechanism described above. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 19, the stepped portion 20 a described above is provided with a water supply port 54, and hot water from a water heater (not shown) is supplied to the water supply port 54. The water supply port 54 includes a manual valve 55, a pressure relief valve 56, a hot water supply filter 57, a flow rate sensor 116, a hot water supply thermistor 117, an electromagnetic water injection valve 60, and a metering valve 61 (see FIG. 20 described later). ) Through the water supply hose 62. As shown in FIG. 18, the water supply hose 62 rises upward and is airtightly connected to the water injection nozzle 35 on the side wall of the heat exchange unit 32 described above. For this reason, when the water injection valve 60 is opened and closed by a control signal in a state where the manual valve 55 is opened, the water injection from the external water heater to the heat exchanging unit 32 can be controlled intermittently. Hot water from the water heater poured into the heat exchanging unit 32 falls along the tapered side wall and is stored in the storage unit 31.

  Note that, at a predetermined position on the bottom of the waterproof cover 20, a heater power supply cable 63, various electronic circuit power supply cables 64, and a communication cable 65 connected to the power supply box 13 are airtightly connected. . Although not shown, these cables are routed to necessary places inside the cover.

  On the other hand, the ventilation duct 21 described above is attached to a ceiling frame 70 that covers the upper portion of the waterproof cover 20. In this ventilation duct 21, a suction port 71 and a blower port 72 are formed as shown in FIG. Both the suction port 71 and the blowout port 72 communicate with the internal space of the heat exchange unit 32. For this reason, while the air in the bathroom (actually, using the bath lid is operated, the inside of the bathtub) can be taken into the heat exchanging part 32 through the suction port 71, the air inside the heat exchanging part 32 is taken in. The air can be discharged through the air outlet 72. An opening / closing cover 22a is attached to the front side of the top cover 22. When the sauna bath is not performed, the cover 22a is closed (the state shown in FIG. 3) and the suction port 71 and the air outlet 72 are closed. ing. For this reason, the hot water and dust of bathtub BT are prevented from entering the steam generator 11 through the suction port 71 and the blower outlet 72. When performing a sauna bath, as shown in FIG. 19, a mechanism is provided that can open the cover 22a and maintain the open state.

  Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 17, a separator 73 as an obstacle member for gas / liquid separation is attached to the ceiling frame 70 of the heat exchange unit 32 so as to hang down toward the inside of the heat exchange unit 32. The separator 73 is located between the suction port 71 and the air outlet 72 and is tapered so as to form an obtuse angle with respect to the injection body coming from the suction port 71 and the injection nozzle 36. Moreover, the position of the lower end of the separator 73 is located below that of the air outlet 72, so that the ejector from the suction port 71 and the injection nozzle 36 does not reach the air outlet 72 directly. Yes.

  Moreover, since hot water is simultaneously injected at high speed from a plurality of injection holes, the contact area with the air inside the heat exchange section 32 increases, and more air is sucked into the tank via the suction port 71.

  Furthermore, as can be seen from FIG. 17, the control unit 80 is provided outside the right wall of the heat exchange unit 32 in a state where the discharge hose 41 is avoided and in a state where it is not in contact with hot water or the like. The control unit 80 is mounted with electronic components of a control circuit 81 that plays a central role in controlling the steam generator 11.

  The control circuit 81 includes a microcomputer 90 as shown in FIG. 20, and causes the microcomputer 90 to execute processing related to start-up control, steady control, or return control described above with reference to FIGS. By giving a program describing the above, a part of means for realizing such driving and control is functionally realized. Such a program is stored in advance in a memory (not shown) of the microcomputer 90.

  In the control circuit 81, various circuits as peripheral circuits and interfaces of the microcomputer 90 are mounted on the same control unit 80. This circuit includes A / D converters 92 to 95, detection circuits 96 and 97, and drive circuits 98 to 100. These various circuits are electrically connected to various detection means and drive means in the steam generator 11, receive and convert signals detected by the detection means, send them to the microcomputer 90, and process the microcomputer 90. The control signal output by is received and converted and output to the driving means.

  More specifically, the suction port 71 and the air outlet 72 are provided with thermistors 110 and 111 as detection means for detecting temperature, respectively, and the detection signals of the thermistors 110 and 111 are respectively A / It is sent to the D converters 92 and 95.

  An overflow (OF) level sensor 112 is provided at a predetermined position on the edge (upper limit) of the heat exchange unit 32, and a detection signal from the level sensor 112 is sent to the detection circuit 96. Further, a lower limit level sensor 113 is provided at a position slightly below the upper limit of the side wall of the reservoir 31 and above the circulation port 39, and the detection means of the level sensor 113 is connected to the detection circuit 97. Sent. A common level sensor 114 that provides a reference signal for comparison is attached to a predetermined position near the bottom of the storage unit 31, and a detection signal of the common level sensor 114 is sent to the detection circuits 96 and 97 as a reference signal. These level sensors 112 to 114 use electrode switches that are connected (ON) when water reaches the sensor position because detection accuracy is particularly required. The mounting positions of these sensors 112 to 114 in the tank are only required to detect the water level, and may be any position within the circumference of the tank. Further, in the storage unit 31, a hot water thermistor 115 is attached at a position below the lower limit level sensor 113 and close to the center of the tank 31, and the detection signal of the hot water thermistor 115 is A. / D converter 93.

  The detection signal of the hot water supply thermistor 17 inserted in the water injection system is sent to the A / D converter 94, and the detection signal of the flow sensor 116 is sent directly to the microcomputer. On the other hand, the drive circuits 98, 99, and 100 that receive a control command from the microcomputer 90 output the drive signals to the pump 40, the drain valve 50, and the water injection valve 60, respectively. A signal from the drain valve 50 is directly output to the microcomputer 90. A water leakage detection sensor 118 is installed in a position near the bottom of the waterproof cover 20, and a detection signal from the sensor 118 is sent directly to the microcomputer 90. The detection signal of the interlock reed switch 119 installed at the upper end of the heat exchanging unit 32 is also sent directly to the microcomputer 90.

In the steam generator according to the embodiment described above, by causing the microcomputer 81 to execute the start-up control as described above with reference to FIGS. 3 to 11, the average temperature in the bathtub 10 quickly reaches the target value at the start of operation. And a comfortable sauna space can be quickly formed.
Further, when the microcomputer 81 executes the return control as described above with reference to FIGS. 13 to 15, the bath lid is opened and the temperature of the temperature sensor 110 at the suction port decreases by a predetermined temperature, for example, 2 ° C. or more. Even if the detection value of the temperature sensor at the outlet is higher than the lower limit threshold value, energization to the heater 37 can be resumed and the inside of the bathtub 10 can be quickly returned to the target temperature.

The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to specific examples. However, the present invention is not limited to these specific examples.
For example, various elements constituting the steam generator or bathtub sauna system of the present invention, such as the tank 30, nozzle 36, separator 73, and pump 40, which are appropriately designed and adopted by those skilled in the art As long as it has the gist of the present invention, it is included in the scope of the present invention.

It is a conceptual diagram which illustrates the principal part structure of the steam generator concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which illustrates the usage aspect of the bathtub sauna system using the steam generator. It is a flowchart showing the control implemented in the steam generator 11 of embodiment of this invention. It is a graph for demonstrating steady control and starting control. It is a graph for demonstrating the 2nd specific example of starting control. It is a graph for demonstrating the 3rd specific example of starting control. It is a schematic diagram which illustrates the operation panel of the remote control of the bathtub sauna system using the steam generator of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the operation | movement which performs starting control and steady control. It is a graph showing the result of the experiment which this inventor implemented. It is a flowchart showing the 2nd form of starting control. It is a flowchart which illustrates operation | movement of embodiment of this invention. It is a graph showing the result of the experiment which this inventor implemented. It is a flowchart which illustrates the return control which returns the temperature in the bathtub 10 to a target value rapidly, even when a user opens a bath lid in the middle of a sauna bath. It is a flowchart showing the specific example of the operation | movement incorporating the return control of this embodiment. It is a graph showing the result of the test which this inventor implemented. It is a perspective conceptual diagram which illustrates the bathtub sauna system provided with the steam generator of this invention. It is the figure which looked at the steam generator from the user (tub side) of the sauna bath. It is a left view of a steam generator. It is a right view of a steam generator. It is a block diagram showing the electric system of a steam generator, and the path | route for steam generation.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Bath 11 Steam generating device 12 Cooling device 13 Power supply box 14 Remote control 17 Hot water supply thermistor 20 Waterproof cover 20a Step part 21 Ventilation duct 22 Top cover 22a Opening / closing cover 30 Tank 31 Storage part 31a Circulation port 31b Exhaust port 32 Heat exchange part 34 In tank Filter 35 Water injection nozzle 36 Injection nozzle 37 Heater 38 Heater cover 39 Pump filter 40 Circulation pump 41 Discharge hose 50 Drain valve 51 Check valve 52 Normal drain port 53 Emergency drain port 54 Water feed port 55 Manual valve 56 Valve 57 Hot water supply filter 60 Electromagnetic type Water injection valve 61 Metering valve 62 Water supply hose 63 Power supply cable 64 Cable 65 Communication cable 70 Ceiling frame 71 Suction port 72 Air outlet 73 Separator 80 Control unit 81 Microcomputer 90 Microcomputer 92-94 Converter 96 Detection circuit 97 Detection circuit 98 Drive circuit 110, 111 Temperature sensor 112-114 Level sensor 115 Hot water thermistor 116 Flow rate sensor 117 Hot water supply thermistor 118 Water leakage detection sensor 119 Interlock reed switch 143 Switch 143 Mist switch 145 Temperature setting switch 148 Switch

Claims (8)

A suction port capable of sucking outside air;
Steam generating means for generating steam by heating and humidifying the air sucked through the suction port;
An outlet for discharging the generated steam;
A control unit that feedback-controls the steam generation means based on the temperature at the outlet;
With
The control unit performs feedback control based on a first upper limit threshold for a predetermined time after the steam generation means starts generating the steam, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, A steam generator that performs feedback control based on a second upper threshold that is lower than the upper threshold.   The control unit executes feedback control based on a first lower limit threshold value lower than the second upper limit threshold value during the predetermined time, and reduces the first lower limit value after the predetermined time has elapsed. The steam generator according to claim 1, wherein feedback control based on a second lower limit threshold value lower than the threshold value is executed.   The control unit performs feedback control based on a first lower limit threshold that is higher than the second upper limit threshold during the predetermined time, and increases the second upper limit after the predetermined time has elapsed. The steam generator according to claim 1, wherein feedback control based on a second lower limit threshold value lower than the threshold value is executed. The steam generation means has a heater that forms hot water for heating and humidifying the air,
The controller stops energization of the heater when the temperature of the outlet becomes equal to or higher than the upper limit threshold, and starts energization of the heater when the temperature of the outlet becomes equal to or lower than the lower limit threshold. The steam generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein:   The said control part starts the electricity supply to the said heater, when the amount of fall of the temperature in the said suction port exceeds a predetermined range, when the said steam generation means is generating the said steam. Steam generator. A suction port capable of sucking outside air;
Steam generating means for generating steam by heating and humidifying the air sucked through the suction port, having a pump for injecting hot water;
An outlet for discharging the generated steam;
A control unit for controlling the pump;
With
The control unit controls the rotation speed of the pump to be a first rotation speed for a predetermined time after the steam generation unit starts generating the steam, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, A steam generator, wherein the rotation speed of the pump is controlled to be a second rotation speed lower than the first rotation speed. The steam generating means has a heater for forming the hot water,
The said control part starts the electricity supply to the said heater, when the amount of fall of the temperature in the said suction port exceeds a predetermined range when the said steam generation means is generating the said steam. Steam generator. A bathtub,
A steam generator according to any one of claims 1 to 7;
With
The said steam generator attracts | sucks the air in the said bathtub from the said suction opening, and discharge | releases the said steam in the said bathtub from the said blower outlet, The bathtub sauna system characterized by the above-mentioned.

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