JP2014238306A - Detection unit and hot water supply system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a detection unit and a hot water supply system that are hardly affected by an influence of a foreign object.SOLUTION: A detection unit 68 comprises: a body 93 that has a first flow channel 105 and a second flow channel 109 formed, and has a junction point 111 of the first flow channel 105 and the second flow channel 109 provided inside; a rotation axis 118 that extends toward from the first flow channel 105 to the second flow channel 109; impellers 120 and 130 that rotate in accordance with respective flows of a fluid passing the first flow channel 105 and a fluid passing the second flow channel 109; and a detection part 114 that is for detecting a rotation status of the impellers 120 and 130. A first bearing 124 and a second bearing 126 rotatably supporting the rotation axis 118 are provided on an upstream side further than the junction point 111 in the first flow channel 105.

Description

  The present invention relates to a detection unit for detecting a flow state of a fluid flowing through a pipe, and a hot water supply system including the detection unit.

  In general, a hot water supply apparatus is provided with a reheating circulation path for replenishing hot water stored in the bathtub in addition to a dropping hot water supply path for dropping hot water adjusted to an appropriate temperature into the bathtub. In such a hot water supply apparatus, a flow sensor is provided in the dropping hot water supply passage, and the flow rate dropped into the bathtub is monitored when filling the hot water. A similar flow sensor or flow switch is also provided in the recirculation circuit to detect the circulation of hot water. However, such an increase in sensors and switches leads to an increase in size and complexity of the apparatus and an increase in manufacturing cost. Therefore, a configuration is also proposed in which a common flow rate detection device for detecting the dropped flow rate and the recirculation circulation flow is provided at the connecting portion between the drop hot water supply channel and the recirculation circulation route (see, for example, Patent Document 1). . Such a flow rate detection device generally includes an impeller that rotates in response to a flow, and detects the flow rate from the number of rotations.

JP-A-10-185636

  However, since reheating is usually performed after a person takes a bath, the circulating hot water is sewage containing dirt such as skin and foreign matters such as hair. For this reason, when the foreign matter in the wastewater enters the bearing portion of the impeller for detecting the flow rate, there is a possibility that the smooth rotation of the rotating shaft is hindered and the accurate detection may be hindered.

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and one of its purposes is to provide a detection unit and a hot water supply system that are not easily affected by foreign matter.

  In order to solve the above problems, an aspect of the present invention is a detection unit for detecting a fluid flow state, wherein a first flow path and a second flow path are formed, and the first flow path and the second flow path are formed. A body having a connection point with the flow path provided therein, a rotating shaft extending from the first flow path toward the second flow path, and a fluid passing through the first flow path and the second flow path A rotating body that rotates according to each flow of fluid passing therethrough, and a detection unit that detects a rotation state of the rotating body. A bearing portion that rotatably supports the rotation shaft is provided on the upstream side of the connection point in the first flow path. Here, the “detection unit” may detect one or both of the presence / absence of the flow of fluid in the pipe and the flow rate.

  According to this aspect, the bearing portion that supports the rotating shaft of the rotating body is provided on the upstream side of the connection point in the first flow path. For this reason, the detection unit is incorporated in the hot water supply system so that the first flow path is dropped into the hot water supply path and the second flow path is used as a recirculation circulation path, thereby preventing or suppressing entry of foreign matter into the bearing portion. be able to. That is, by installing the detection unit in this way, even if foreign matter is included in the hot water circulating during the reheating, the hot water may enter the upstream side of the first flow path beyond the connection point. Is low, and is led to the downstream side of the second flow path along the recirculation circuit. For this reason, it is unlikely that foreign matter will enter the bearing portion, and a detection unit that is less susceptible to foreign matter can be provided.

  Another aspect of the present invention is a hot water supply system. This hot water supply system includes a circulation circuit for circulating hot water in a bathtub, a hot water supply pipe connected to the circulation circuit for supplying heated hot water to the bathtub through the circulation circuit, a hot water supply pipe and a circulation circuit. A first flow path to be connected and a second flow path forming a circulation circuit are formed, a branch pipe having a connection point between the first flow path and the second flow path provided therein, A rotating body having a rotating shaft extending toward the two flow paths, rotating according to each flow of hot water passing through the first flow path and hot water passing through the second flow path, and a rotating state of the rotating body And a detection unit for detecting. When circulating the hot water in the bathtub by the circulation circuit, the flow of the hot water through the hot water supply pipe is blocked, and the bearing portion that rotatably supports the rotating shaft is connected to the connection point in the first flow path. Is also provided upstream.

  According to this aspect, the branch pipe is provided in the connection portion between the circulation circuit and the hot water supply pipe, and the detection unit is provided in the branch pipe, and the bearing portion that supports the rotating shaft of the rotating body of the detection unit is the first. It is provided on the upstream side of the connection point in the flow path. For this reason, even if foreign matter is included in the sewage flowing through the circulation circuit, the possibility that the hot water enters the upstream side of the first flow path beyond the connection point is low, and the second flow along the circulation circuit It is led to the downstream side of the road. For this reason, there is a low possibility of foreign matter entering the bearing portion, and a hot water supply system having a detection unit that is hardly affected by the foreign matter can be provided.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the detection unit and hot water supply system which are hard to receive to the influence of a foreign material can be provided.

It is a system diagram showing the composition of the hot water storage type hot water supply apparatus according to the first embodiment. It is sectional drawing showing the whole structure of a detection unit. It is a fragmentary sectional view of a detection unit. It is sectional drawing showing the structure of the detection unit which concerns on the modification of 1st Embodiment. It is sectional drawing showing the whole structure of the detection unit which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is BB arrow sectional drawing of FIG. It is a figure showing the structure of the 2nd impeller which concerns on the modification of 2nd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing showing the structure of the detection unit which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing showing the structure of the detection unit which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing showing the whole structure of the detection unit which concerns on 4th Embodiment. It is sectional drawing showing the whole structure of the detection unit which concerns on 5th Embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a system diagram illustrating a configuration of a hot water storage type hot water supply apparatus according to the first embodiment. The hot water supply apparatus of this embodiment includes a hot water storage unit 10 and a heat pump unit 12. The hot water storage unit 10 includes a hot water storage tank 14, piping for circulating or supplying hot water, a control valve for controlling the flow of hot water, a sensor for detecting the temperature and flow rate of the hot water, and the like. The “pipe” such as the following water supply pipe means a conduit through which a fluid can flow, and includes a flow path in the apparatus in addition to a member connecting the apparatus and components. The hot water supply device supplies hot water adjusted to an appropriate temperature by the hot water storage unit 10 to water supply equipment such as the bathtub 13 and the currant 15. The hot water supply apparatus includes a hot water supply circuit for dropping hot water sent from the hot water storage tank 14 and adjusted to an appropriate temperature into the bathtub 13, and a reheating circulation circuit for replenishing hot water stored in the bathtub 13.

  The low-temperature water supplied from the water supply is supplied to the hot water storage unit 10 through the water supply pipe 16. The water supply pipe 16 branches into a first water supply pipe 17, a second water supply pipe 18 and a third water supply pipe 19 in the hot water storage unit 10. Among these, the first water supply pipe 17 is connected to the lower part of the hot water storage tank 14. A boiling circulation circuit is formed between the hot water storage tank 14 and the heat pump unit 12. That is, the outlet pipe 20 connected to the lower part of the hot water storage tank 14 is connected to the heat pump unit 12, and the return pipe 22 connected to the heat pump unit 12 is connected to the upper part of the hot water storage tank 14. Note that low temperature water is supplied to the currant 15 through a water supply pipe 16 in a separate system from the hot water supply apparatus.

  With such a configuration, the hot water storage tank 14 is formed with a temperature stratification in which high-temperature water is present in the upper part, intermediate-temperature water in the middle part, and low-temperature water in the lower part. The cold / hot water accumulated in the lower part of the hot water storage tank 14 is subjected to heat exchange by the heat pump unit 12 to become high temperature water, and is returned to the hot water storage tank 14. The outlet pipe 20 is provided with a pump 23 for promoting circulation of hot water in such a boiling circulation circuit.

  The heat pump unit 12 includes a refrigeration cycle that uses carbon dioxide as a refrigerant. This refrigeration cycle includes a refrigerant circulation circuit including a compressor, a heat exchanger, an expansion valve, and an evaporator. However, since the configuration and operation thereof are known, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. The low-temperature water flowing through the above-described boiling circulation circuit is boiled up into the high-temperature water when passing through the heat exchanger.

  A reheating heat source circuit for reheating is also connected to the hot water storage tank 14. That is, the heating circuit 24 that connects the upper part and the lower part of the hot water storage tank 14 is provided, and the heat exchanger 70 and the pump 72 are provided in the middle thereof. The pump 72 is driven at the time of chasing. Thereby, the high-temperature water accumulated in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 14 is led to the heat exchanger 70, and heat exchange is performed with the hot water flowing through the circulation passage 82 on the bathtub 13 side. Hot water whose temperature has decreased due to heat exchange is returned to the hot water storage tank 14.

  On the other hand, a hot water supply pipe 25 for deriving high temperature water is connected to the upper part of the hot water storage tank 14. The hot water supply pipe 25 is branched into a first hot water supply pipe 26 and a second hot water supply pipe 28. The first hot water supply pipe 26 is connected to the second water supply pipe 18, and the second hot water supply pipe 28 is connected to the third water supply pipe 19. The high-temperature water flowing through each hot water supply pipe and the low-temperature water flowing through each water supply pipe are mixed at a connection portion (merging portion) of those pipes. The hot water having an appropriate temperature by mixing the high temperature water in the first hot water supply pipe 26 and the cold and hot water in the second water supply pipe 18 is supplied to the currant 15 such as a kitchen via the pipe 30. On the other hand, the hot water having an appropriate temperature by mixing the hot water in the second hot water supply pipe 28 and the cold and hot water in the third water supply pipe 19 is supplied to the bathtub 13 through the hot water supply pipe 32.

  A first mixing valve 36 is provided at a connection point between the first hot water supply pipe 26, the second water supply pipe 18 and the pipe 30. The first mixing valve 36 adjusts the mixing ratio between the high-temperature water supplied through the first hot water supply pipe 26 and the low-temperature water supplied through the second water supply pipe 18, and supplies hot water with an appropriate temperature to the pipe 30. To derive. A check valve 40 is provided upstream of the first mixing valve 36 in the first hot water supply pipe 26. A check valve 42 is provided on the upstream side of the first mixing valve 36 in the second water supply pipe 18. The pipe 30 is provided with a temperature sensor 48 and a flow sensor 50 from the upstream side. A control unit (not shown) acquires the temperature of the temperature sensor 48 and controls the opening degree of the first mixing valve 36 so as to be a hot water supply temperature set by a user with a remote controller (not shown). The check valve 40 prevents hot water from the junction from flowing back to the first hot water supply pipe 26 when hot water supply is stopped. The check valve 42 prevents hot water from the junction from flowing back to the second water supply pipe 18 when hot water supply is stopped.

  On the other hand, a second mixing valve 38 is provided at a connection point between the second hot water supply pipe 28, the third water supply pipe 19, and the hot water supply pipe 32. The second mixing valve 38 adjusts the mixing ratio between the high-temperature water supplied via the second hot water supply pipe 28 and the low-temperature water supplied via the third water supply pipe 19, so that the hot water supply water 32 has an appropriate temperature. Is derived. A check valve 44 is provided upstream of the second mixing valve 38 in the second hot water supply pipe 28. A check valve 46 is provided upstream of the second mixing valve 38 in the third water supply pipe 19. The hot water supply pipe 32 is provided with a temperature sensor 52 and a control valve unit 54 from the upstream side. A control unit (not shown) acquires the temperature of the temperature sensor 52 and controls the opening degree of the second mixing valve 38 so as to be a hot water supply temperature set by a user using a remote controller (not shown). The check valve 44 prevents hot water from the junction from flowing back to the second hot water supply pipe 28 when hot water supply is stopped. The check valve 46 prevents the hot water in the junction from flowing back to the third water supply pipe 19 when the hot water supply is stopped.

  A check valve 55, a pressure reducing valve 56, and a shutoff valve 58 are provided upstream of the branch point of the water supply pipe 16 with the first water supply pipe 17. The pressure reducing valve 56 appropriately reduces the pressure of the cold / hot water supplied through the water supply pipe 16. That is, pressure adjustment is appropriately performed so that the hot water storage tank 14 and the like are not damaged by water pressure. The shutoff valve 58 shuts off the water supply pipe 16 when predetermined hot water has accumulated in the hot water storage tank 14 and appropriately stops the supply of cold / hot water. The check valve 55 prevents back flow of hot water in the water supply pipe 16 when water supply to the hot water storage unit 10 is stopped.

  Further, the control valve unit 54 is provided with a control valve 60, a check valve 62, an atmosphere release valve 64 and a check valve 66 from the upstream side. The control valve 60 is an electromagnetic valve, and permits or blocks the supply of hot water to the bathtub 13 by opening and closing the hot water supply pipe 32. The check valve 66 and the check valve 62 prevent the backflow of hot water from the bathtub 13 toward the hot water storage tank 14 in a stepwise manner. The atmosphere release valve 64 opens the space between the check valve 62 and the check valve 66 to the atmosphere in response to a pressure drop on the upstream side (primary side).

  That is, for example, when the bathtub 13 is installed at a position higher than the hot water storage unit 10, when the check valve 66 disposed on the side of the bathtub 13 has poor watertightness due to the biting of foreign matter, The sewage in the bathtub 13 flows back to the atmosphere release valve 64 through the check valve 66 due to the water head pressure. Even in such a case, since the sewage is discharged to the atmosphere by the atmosphere release valve 64, the sewage in the bathtub 13 can be prevented from flowing back to the hot water storage unit 10 and thus to the water supply.

  The hot water supply pipe 32 branches at a branch point P on the downstream side of the control valve unit 54 into a connection passage 80 directly connected to the bathtub 13 and a circulation passage 82 forming a recirculation circuit. A detection unit 68 is provided at the branch point P. As will be described later in detail, the detection unit 68 is a branch pipe with a flow sensor.

  A pump 84 is provided in the connection passage 80, and a heat exchanger 70 is provided in the middle of the circulation passage 82. The pump 84 is driven only when reheating. That is, when filling the bathtub 13 with hot water, the control valve 60 is opened, and hot water adjusted to an appropriate temperature by the second mixing valve 38 is supplied. The hot water branches at a branch point P, and is supplied to the bathtub 13 through the connection passage 80 on the one hand and to the bathtub 13 through the circulation passage 82 on the other hand, as indicated by the solid arrow in the figure. However, since the pump 72 is not driven at the time of hot water filling, reheating is not performed. The amount of hot water supplied during hot water filling is calculated based on the detection value of the detection unit 68. When the supply of hot water of a predetermined flow rate is completed, the control valve 60 is closed and hot water filling is stopped.

  On the other hand, the pumps 72 and 84 are driven at the time of reheating. As a result, as indicated by a dotted arrow in the figure, hot water in the bathtub 13 is sent out toward the heat exchanger 70 and circulates in the recirculation circuit. The cooled hot water discharged from the bathtub 13 is heat-exchanged by the heat exchanger 70 to be heated, and returned to the bathtub 13 again. By this reheating, the hot water in the bathtub 13 is warmed to an appropriate temperature. In addition, since the control valve 60 is closed and the check valve 66 is maintained in the closed state at the time of reheating, the sewage in the bathtub 13 does not flow back to the hot water supply pipe 32.

  In the present embodiment, when hot water filling is performed, an integrated value of the flow rate of hot water detected by the detection unit 68 is calculated, and the control valve 60 is closed when the integrated value reaches a set hot water amount. . Thereby, hot water filling is completed. Also, when performing reheating, the detection unit 68 detects the presence or absence of hot water circulation in the recirculation circuit. In other words, the detection unit 68 functions as a flow sensor for detecting the amount of hot water discharged during hot water filling, and also functions as a flow switch for detecting the presence or absence of hot water circulation during reheating. When the detection unit 68 functions as the latter flow switch, it is also possible to obtain a measure of the renewal end time based on the circulation duration time. Details of the configuration and operation of the detection unit 68 will be described later.

  Next, a specific configuration of the detection unit will be described. In the following description, for the sake of convenience, the positional relationship of members may be expressed with reference to the illustrated state. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the overall configuration of the detection unit. FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of the detection unit. 3A shows a cross section taken along the line AA in FIG. 2, and FIG. 3B shows a cross section taken along the line BB in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the detection unit 68 includes a branch pipe 90 and a sensor unit 92. The branch pipe 90 is a pipe joint having a T-shaped body 93, and connects the introduction pipe part 94, the introduction / exit pipe part 96, and the lead-out pipe part 98, and opens in three directions. The introduction tube portion 94 and the lead-out tube portion 98 are connected coaxially, and the introduction / extraction tube portion 96 is connected so as to be orthogonal thereto.

  The introduction tube portion 94 has a first opening end 106, the introduction / extraction tube portion 96 has a second opening end 108, and the outlet tube portion 98 has a third opening end 110. These open ends are connection ports for connecting the branch pipe 90 to other pipes. In the body 93, a first channel 105 connecting the first opening end 106 and the third opening end 110, a branch channel 107 branched from the first channel 105 and connected to the second opening end 108, A second flow path 109 that connects the second opening end 108 and the third opening end 110 is formed. The first channel 105 and the second channel 109 are connected to each other at an intermediate portion (a branch point of the first channel 105 to the branch channel 107). This connection point 111 coincides with the branch point P described above.

  The first open end 106 is connected to the end of the hot water supply pipe 32 on the bathtub 13 side. As described with reference to FIG. 1, the hot water supply pipe 32 is for replenishing hot water stored in the bathtub 13 with a hot water supply circuit that drops hot water sent from the hot water storage tank 14 and adjusted to an appropriate temperature into the bathtub 13. It is a pipe connected to the circulation circuit. The second open end 108 is connected to the connection passage 80 of the recirculation circuit. The third open end 110 is connected to the circulation passage 82 of the recirculation circuit. In this way, the branch pipe 90 forms a connection portion between the circulation circuit (the connection passage 80 and the circulation passage 82) and the hot water supply pipe 32. A pipe line connecting the second opening end 108 and the third opening end 110 is a part of a circulation circuit for reheating.

  During hot water filling (hot water supply), hot water introduced from the hot water supply pipe 32 through the first opening end 106 flows so as to branch at the connection point 111 as indicated by solid arrows in the drawing. That is, on the one hand, the hot water goes straight through the connection point 111 as it is and is guided to the circulation passage 82 via the third opening end 110, and on the other hand, the traveling direction is changed by 90 degrees at the connection point 111, To the connection passage 80. On the other hand, at the time of reheating, hot water introduced from the connection passage 80 via the second opening end 108 changes the traveling direction by 90 degrees at the connection point 111 and is guided to the circulation passage 82 via the third opening end 110. . At the time of reheating, the check valve 66 shown in FIG. 1 is closed, so that the flow of hot water through the first opening end 106 is blocked. For this reason, the hot water introduced from the 2nd opening end 108 is not guide | induced to the 1st opening end 106 side. That is, hot water does not flow back through the first flow path 105.

  The sensor unit 92 includes a rotary flow sensor that outputs a detection signal based on the rotation of an impeller (functioning as a “rotating body”). The sensor unit 92 includes a sensor main body 112 and a detection unit 114. The sensor body 112 includes a bottomed cylindrical body 116, a rotating shaft 118 extending along the axis of the body 116, and an impeller 120 ("first rotating body", "first shaft" fixed to the rotating shaft 118. Functioning as an "impeller". A rectifier 121 is fitted to the upstream opening end of the body 116.

  As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the impeller 120 includes four blades 122 that extend radially about the rotation shaft 118. The blades 122 are flat blades and are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the rotating shaft 118 every 90 degrees. In the present embodiment, these blades 122 are obtained by molding a resin material mixed with magnetic powder, and the adjacent blades 122 are configured to exhibit different magnetic poles. In other words, N and S poles are alternately magnetized on adjacent flat blades. In a modification, a permanent magnet or the like may be fixed on the surface or inside of the blade 122.

  Returning to FIG. 2, the detection unit 114 includes a magnetic sensor. For example, a sensor element that detects a change in magnetic field such as a reed switch or a Hall element can be used. The detection unit 114 only needs to be able to detect the rotational state of the impeller 120, and the type can be selected as appropriate. The detection unit 114 is embedded in the pipe wall on the side of the impeller 120, but may be arranged on the outer surface of the pipe.

  The rotating shaft 118 can be formed of, for example, metal or resin, but in order to ensure slidability with a bearing that supports the rotating shaft 118, a resin material with good lubricity such as a fluororesin or a polyacetal resin. It is desirable to form with. The rotating shaft 118 is rotatably supported at two points by a first bearing 124 provided at the bottom center of the body 116 and a second bearing 126 provided at the center of the rectifier 121.

  In other words, a circular boss-shaped first bearing 124 that protrudes slightly inward is provided at the bottom of the body 116. Around the first bearing 124 at the bottom of the body 116, a plurality of communication holes 128 that communicate between the inside and the outside are provided. On the other hand, the rectifier 121 has a shaft portion at the center of the ring-shaped main body, and a second bearing 126 is configured by a fitting groove provided on a surface of the shaft portion facing the rotation shaft 118. The upstream end of the rotating shaft 118 is slidably inserted into the second bearing 126. On the other hand, a flange-like stopper 129 is provided in the axial direction intermediate portion of the rotating shaft 118. The stopper 129 is locked to the upstream end surface of the first bearing 124, so that the rotating shaft 118 is prevented from falling off. The rotating shaft 118 extends slidably through the first bearing 124 and extends to the connection point 111 between the first flow path 105 and the second flow path 109. An impeller 130 (which functions as a “second rotating body” and a “second impeller”) is provided at the tip of the rotating shaft 118.

  The rectifier 121 generates a vortex near the upstream side of the impeller 120 when hot water flows through the first flow path. That is, when the blade 122 of the impeller 120 is a flat blade parallel to the rotation shaft 118 as described above, the flow of hot water for rotating the blade 122 needs to be a spiral axial flow. Become. For this reason, the rectifier 121 is provided with a plurality of rectifying blades 132 for forming a vortex on the upstream side of the impeller 120. The rectifying blade 132 is formed in a screw shape twisted around the axis. In the present embodiment, seven rectifying blades 132 are arranged at equal intervals (only one is shown in FIG. 2).

  The plurality of rectifying blades 132 are connected in an annular shape at the outer edge portion to form a rectifying ring. Hot water flowing from the hot water supply pipe 32 through the first opening end 102 passes through the rectifying blades 132 to become a vortex according to the twist of the rectifying blades 132 and is guided to the impeller 120. As a result, the impeller 120 rotates at a rotational speed corresponding to the axial flow speed of the vortex, that is, the flow rate of the hot water. And the flow volume of the hot water which flows in from the 1st opening end 102 is computable by detecting the change of the magnetic field according to the rotational speed of the impeller 120 by the detection part 114. FIG. A calculation unit (not shown) can calculate the amount of pouring water into the bathtub 13 by integrating the flow rates. Although this calculating part comprises some control parts of a hot-water supply system, it may be comprised separately from a control part. For example, the detection unit 114 may be integrated with or adjacent to the detection unit 114.

  As shown in FIG. 3A, a part of the cylindrical side surface of the body 116 is a flat portion (D-cut shape). Similarly, the inner wall of the body 93 that receives the sensor body 112 is also a flat portion. When the sensor main body 112 is assembled in the body 93, the positioning of the sensor main body 112 in the rotational direction around the axis can be accurately performed by the engagement of the flat portions. As shown in FIG. 2, the positioning (press-fit amount) of the sensor main body 112 with respect to the body 93 is positioned on the bottom portion (on the first bearing 124 side) of the step portion 134 formed on the inner wall surface of the body 93. This can be done by contacting the end portion.

  The impeller 130 is disposed at a connection point 111 between the first flow path 105 and the second flow path 109. The impeller 130 is fixed to the rotating shaft 118 by press-fitting the tip of the rotating shaft 118 along the axis thereof. In the modified example, the impeller 130 may be fixed to the rotating shaft 118 not by press fitting, but by adhesion, joining, fitting, caulking, screwing, or other means. As shown in FIG. 3B, the impeller 130 has a shape similar to that of the impeller 120, and includes four blades 136 that extend radially about the rotation shaft 118. The blades 136 are flat blades, and are provided every 90 degrees around the axis. In this embodiment, the impeller 130 is configured to be slightly smaller than the impeller 120 and is obtained by injection molding of a resin material. Unlike the impeller 120, the impeller 130 is not magnetic.

  A guiding structure for guiding hot water in a direction in which a rotational force is applied to the impeller 130 is provided near the upstream side of the connection point 111 in the second flow path 109. This guiding structure is realized by a shielding wall 138 that shields half of the flow path of the second flow path 109 on the upstream side of the connection point 111. That is, when half of the second flow path 109 is shielded by the shielding wall 138, when hot water is introduced through the second opening end 108 during reheating (see the dotted arrow in the figure), the hot water is supplied to the impeller 130. Can be led to a position deviated with respect to the axis. As a result, the impeller 130 can always be rotated counterclockwise in the drawing in a manner like a water wheel. The guiding structure only needs to be able to guide the hot water flowing through the second flow path 109 to a predetermined position where the impeller 130 is easy to rotate. In addition to the illustrated structure, for example, a rectifying blade is provided on the inner wall of the second flow path 109. Or by providing unevenness. In the present embodiment, the shielding wall 138 is formed so that the rotation direction of the impeller 120 (that is, the rotation direction of the impeller 130) is opposite between the filling time and the reheating time.

  Returning to FIG. 2, the rotation of the impeller 130 is transmitted to the impeller 120 via the rotation shaft 118 and detected by the detection unit 114. That is, the impeller 120 rotates at a rotational speed corresponding to the flow rate even with hot water flowing through the second flow path 109. Then, by detecting a change in the magnetic field according to the rotational speed of the impeller 120, the calculation unit (not shown) can calculate the flow rate of the hot water flowing through the second flow path 109.

  However, the hot water flowing through the second flow path 109 is likely to be turbulent due to the influence of the shielding wall 138, and the rotation of the impeller 130 and thus the impeller 120 may also become unstable. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the impeller 120 is rotated by the hot water flowing through the second flow path 109, the calculation unit detects only whether the hot water is flowing. That is, in this embodiment, the impeller 120 is basically used as a flow switch.

  By the way, the hot water circulating at the time of chasing may contain foreign matters such as hair and scale due to bathing by the user of the bathtub 13. In particular, if foreign matter gets entangled between the parts that slide by the rotation of the impellers 120 and 130, that is, between the rotary shaft 118 and the bearings 124 and 126, it becomes a factor that causes such rotation failure. In such a case, it is necessary to remove the entangled foreign matter by maintenance or the like, and the running cost increases.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, in order to avoid or at least suppress such a situation, as shown in the drawing, the first bearing 124 on the side close to the connection point 111 is disposed upstream of the connection point 111 in the first flow path 105. Arranged on the side. With such a configuration, even if filth is mixed in the hot water flowing through the recirculation circuit, the foreign matter is not guided to the first bearing 124 and the second bearing 126. As described above, since the flow of hot water through the first opening end 106 is interrupted at the time of reheating, hot water is in a state upstream of the connection point 111 in the first flow path 105. It works like a wall. For this reason, the hot water flowing through the recirculation circuit is not guided to the area where the sensor body 112 is disposed, but flows from the second opening end 108 toward the third opening end 110. That is, it is possible to make the detection unit 68 less susceptible to foreign matters.

  Even if the foreign matter circulated by reheating remains in the second flow path 109, the remaining foreign matter is washed away by the hot water introduced from the first opening end 106 when the hot water is filled next time. Is unlikely to adversely affect the bearings 124,126.

  In the configuration as described above, the detection unit 114 outputs a detection signal corresponding to the rotation of the impeller 120. A control unit (not shown) samples the detection value of the detection unit 114 during hot water filling, and calculates the flow rate of hot water flowing through the hot water supply pipe 32 by integrating the values. When the calculated value reaches the set amount of hot water, energization to the solenoid is stopped, the control valve 60 is closed, and hot water supply is stopped.

  On the other hand, since the control valve 60 is in the closed state at the time of reheating, both the check valve 62 and the check valve 66 maintain the closed state. On the other hand, since the pump 84 is driven, hot water is led out from the bathtub 13 and flows through the recirculation circuit. As a result, the rotation direction of the impeller 120 is opposite to that during hot water filling. The control unit determines whether hot water in the bathtub 13 is circulated based on the detection value of the detection unit 114.

  In the present embodiment, when the pump 84 is driven and the rotation speed of the impeller 120 detected by the detection unit 114 is equal to or higher than the predetermined rotation speed, the control unit refills the hot water in the bathtub 13. It is determined that the circulation circuit is circulating (rebating or the rebirth function is operating normally). When the rotation speed of the impeller 120 does not exceed the predetermined rotation speed even though the pump 84 is driven, the control unit does not circulate the hot water in the bathtub 13 in the recirculation circuit (reheating). It is not in the middle, or the tracking function is not operating normally).

  That is, the detection unit 68 functions as a flow sensor for detecting the amount of hot water discharged when filling with water, and also functions as a flow switch for detecting the presence or absence of hot water circulation during reheating. The control unit can also identify whether the detected hot water flow is pouring or circulating. When the detection unit 68 functions as a flow switch, it is also possible to obtain a guide for the renewal end time based on the circulation continuation time. In addition, in a modification, the flow rate of hot water may be calculated by integrating the detection values of the detection unit 114 even when reheating. That is, the detection unit 68 may function as a flow sensor both when the hot water is filled and when it is chased.

[Modification]
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a detection unit according to a modification of the first embodiment. In the detection unit 168 of this modification, the configuration of the rotation shaft 218 of the impeller 120 is slightly different from the rotation shaft 118 of the above embodiment. That is, the rotating shaft 218 is obtained by processing a half portion on one side in the axial direction of a cylindrical member into a small diameter. The large diameter portion 220 constitutes the shaft portion of the impeller 120, and the small diameter portion 222 constitutes the shaft portion of the impeller 130. The large-diameter portion 220 is supported so as to be sandwiched between the first bearing 124 and the rectifier 121. That is, a step portion that is a boundary between the large diameter portion 220 and the small diameter portion 222 functions as the stopper 129. According to such a configuration, it becomes easy to form the rotating shaft 218 particularly by cutting, and the processing cost can be reduced as compared with the above embodiment.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment and the modification thereof, the branch pipe 90 is provided in the connection portion between the recirculation circuit and the hot water supply pipe 32, and the detection unit 68 is provided in the branch pipe 90. The bearings 124 and 126 that support the rotating shaft of the impeller are provided on the upstream side of the connection point 111 in the first flow path 105. For this reason, even if foreign matter is contained in the sewage flowing through the circulation circuit, it is difficult for the hot water to enter the upstream side of the first flow path 105 beyond the connection point 111, and the second along the circulation circuit. It is guided to the downstream side of the flow path 109. For this reason, it is unlikely that foreign matter will enter the bearings 124 and 126 located on the upstream side of the first flow path 105 from the connection point 111. That is, it is possible to provide a hot water supply system having a detection unit that is hardly affected by foreign matter. Moreover, the two functions of the flow sensor for measuring the amount of pouring water into the bathtub 13 and the flow switch for detecting the circulation operation can be realized by one flow sensor. Thereby, reduction of a number of parts and simplification of piping connection are realizable, and it can lead to the price reduction of the whole hot water supply system.

[Second Embodiment]
The detection unit of the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the configuration of the second impeller and its periphery. For this reason, below, it demonstrates centering on difference with 1st Embodiment. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the overall configuration of the detection unit according to the second embodiment. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. In addition, in each figure, about the component substantially the same as 1st Embodiment, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected.

  As shown in FIG. 5, in the detection unit 268, the introduction tube portion 94 and the introduction / extraction tube portion 96 are coaxially connected, and the outlet tube portion 98 is connected so as to be orthogonal thereto. In the body 93, a first flow path 205 that connects the first opening end 106 and the second opening end 108, a branch flow path 207 that branches from the first flow path 205 and connects to the third opening end 110, A second flow path 209 that connects the second opening end 108 and the third opening end 110 is formed. The first channel 205 is connected to the second channel 209 at a branch point to the branch channel 207. As shown in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, the shielding wall 138 as in the first embodiment is not provided on either the upstream side or the downstream side of the connection point 111 in the second flow path 209.

  On the other hand, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, a rectifier 121 is also provided in the vicinity of the upstream side of the connection point 111 in the second flow path 209. As a result, a vortex can be generated by the rectifier 121 even at the time of reheating, and a rotational force can be applied to the impeller 130 by the vortex.

[Modification]
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a second impeller according to a modification of the second embodiment. The detection unit of this modification has a configuration in which the rectifier 121 of the second flow path 209 shown in FIG. 5 is removed and an impeller 230 shown in FIG. The four blades 236 of the impeller 230 have a shape that can convert an axial flow along the second flow path 209 into a rotational force. That is, each blade 236 has a shape twisted in a screw shape, and the impeller 230 can rotate even when the axial flow is not a vortex. For this reason, the upstream rectifier 121 can be omitted. According to this modification, since the space of the rectifier 121 can be reduced, the inlet / outlet pipe part 96 can be shortened. That is, the detection unit can be downsized.

[Third Embodiment]
The detection unit of the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the connection structure between the first flow path and the second flow path. For this reason, below, it demonstrates centering on difference with 1st Embodiment. 8 and 9 are cross-sectional views illustrating the configuration of the detection unit according to the third embodiment. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. In addition, in each figure, about the component substantially the same as 1st Embodiment, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected.

  As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, in the detection unit 368, in the branch pipe 390, the inlet / outlet pipe part 96 and the outlet pipe part 98 are coaxially connected, and the inlet pipe part 94 is connected so as to be orthogonal to them. Has been. In the body 393, a first flow path 305 connecting the first opening end 106 and the third opening end 110, a branch flow path 307 branched from the first flow path 305 and connected to the second opening end 108, A second flow path 309 that connects the second opening end 108 and the third opening end 110 is formed. The first flow path 305 is connected to the second flow path 309 at a branch point (connection point 111) to the branch flow path 307.

  In this embodiment, as shown in the figure, the axes of the introduction / extraction pipe part 96 and the lead-out pipe part 98 and the axis of the introduction pipe part 94 are not in the same plane, but are arranged in a twisted position. That is, a guiding structure is realized in which the rotating shaft 118 is arranged so as to be shifted to one side from the axis of the second flow path 309 and guides hot water flowing through the second flow path 309 to a position biased with respect to the axis of the impeller 130. Yes. Thus, since the guiding structure is realized by shifting the axis of the flow path connected at the connection point 111, the shielding wall 138 as in the first embodiment is not provided. Further, the additional rectifier 121 as in the second embodiment is not provided.

[Fourth Embodiment]
The detection unit of the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that only one impeller is provided. For this reason, below, it demonstrates centering on difference with 1st Embodiment. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the overall configuration of the detection unit according to the fourth embodiment. In the figure, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  The detection unit 468 is greatly different from the first embodiment in the configuration of the sensor unit 492. That is, the sensor body 412 does not include an impeller in the body 416, and the impeller 430 is provided only at the tip of the rotating shaft 418. The impeller 430 has the same shape as the impeller 130 of the first embodiment, but the four blades 436 are magnetized, and have the same characteristics as the impeller 120. The blade 436 is a flat blade. Since the rotation shaft 418 only needs to support the impeller 430, the rotation shaft 418 is configured to be shorter than the rotation shaft 118 of the first embodiment. As a result, the body 416 is also configured to be compact in the axial direction. On the other hand, the detection unit 114 is embedded in the pipe wall on the side of the impeller 430 (that is, in the pipe wall facing the connection point 111), but may be arranged on the pipe outer surface.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the sensor unit 492 can be configured compactly because the sensor impeller is configured by only one. As a result, the body 493 that accommodates the sensor unit 492 and thus the entire branch pipe 490 can be configured compactly, and the detection unit 468 can be realized at low cost.

[Fifth Embodiment]
The detection unit of the present embodiment is different from the fourth embodiment in the structure for rotating the impeller. For this reason, below, it demonstrates centering on difference with 4th Embodiment. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the overall configuration of a detection unit according to the fifth embodiment. In the figure, the same components as those in the fourth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  The detection unit 568 is different from the fourth embodiment in the configuration of the sensor unit 592. That is, the sensor main body 512 does not include a rectifier, and the rotating shaft 518 is supported in a cantilever manner by the body 516. A locking ring 526 for preventing dropping is fixed on the opposite side of the rotating shaft 518 from the bearing 124 with respect to the stopper 129. That is, the rotating shaft 518 is attached to the body 516 so that the bearing 124 is sandwiched between the stopper 129 and the locking ring 526, thereby preventing the rotating shaft 518 from falling off.

  An impeller 530 is provided at the tip of the rotating shaft 518. The impeller 530 has a shape twisted into a screw shape as shown in FIG. 7, and can convert an axial flow along the second flow path 209 into its rotational force. For this reason, the rectifier is not provided in this embodiment. Four blades 536 are magnetized and have the same characteristics as the impeller 120. Since the rotating shaft 518 is supported only by the body 516, the rotating shaft 518 is configured to be shorter than the rotating shaft 418 of the fourth embodiment. Since the body 516 substantially functions only as a bearing member for the rotating shaft 518, the body 516 is configured to be extremely compact in the axial direction.

  As described above, in this embodiment, since only one sensor impeller is configured and the rectifier can be omitted, the sensor unit 592 can be configured more compactly than the fourth embodiment. As a result, the body 593 accommodating the sensor unit 592 and thus the entire branch pipe 590 can be made compact, and the detection unit 568 can be realized at a lower cost.

  The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention. Nor.

  In the fourth embodiment, a flat blade is used as the impeller 430. However, a blade twisted in a screw shape (also referred to as a “twisted blade”) may be used as in the fifth embodiment. Thereby, the rectifier 121 of the sensor body 412 can be replaced with a simple bearing member, and the component cost can be reduced. Even in such a configuration, since the rotary shaft 418 is supported at two points, it is easy to maintain stable rotation of the impeller 430.

  In the fifth embodiment, twisted blades are employed as the impeller 530, but flat blades may be used as in the fourth embodiment. Then, the body 516 may be replaced with the rectifier 121, and the rotating shaft 518 may be supported in a cantilever manner by the rectifier 121. Even with such a configuration, the sensor unit can be configured compactly.

  In the said 4th and 5th embodiment, the whole impeller 430,530 was located in the connection point 111, and the example which provided the detection part 114 in the tube wall which faces the connection point 111 was shown. In a modification, these impellers may be extended to the upstream side of the first flow path, and the detection unit 114 may be provided on the tube wall upstream of the first flow path.

  Although not described in the above embodiment, a check valve may be arranged on the upstream side of the sensor unit 92 in the detection unit. In that case, the check valve 66 shown in FIG. 1 may be omitted. That is, a check valve may be provided on the upstream side of the detection unit in the body.

  In the above embodiment, an example in which the body of the detection unit is obtained by integral molding has been shown, but a plurality of pipe members molded separately may be assembled to form the body. Further, for example, the body of the detection unit 68 and the body of the control valve unit 54 may be assembled together to form a common body.

  In the above embodiment, an example in which the first rotating body and the second rotating body are each configured as an impeller having four blades has been described, but the number of blades is not limited to four and can be set as appropriate. In addition, a flat plate or a rectifying shape (a shape like a rectifying blade) can be adopted as at least one of the first rotating body and the second rotating body.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the detection unit is provided in a trifurcated branch pipe having three open ends has been described. Needless to say, the detection unit may be provided in various pipes such as a branch pipe having four open ends. Yes. When a branch pipe having four open ends is used, for example, a first flow path connecting the first open end and the second open end and a second flow path connecting the third open end and the fourth open end are provided. It is good also as a structure which forms and connects both flow paths in the mutual intermediate part. In that case, the upstream flow path of the first flow path connected to the first open end and the downstream flow path of the second flow path connected to the fourth open end are connected in a straight line via the connection point. May be. And the 1st impeller and the 2nd impeller are provided in the common rotating shaft, the 1st impeller is arranged in the upstream flow path of the 1st flow path, and the 2nd impeller is connected to a connection point or a 2nd flow path. You may arrange | position in a downstream flow path. Alternatively, the upstream flow path of the first flow path connected to the first open end and the upstream flow path of the second flow path connected to the third open end are connected in a straight line via the connection point. Also good. And the 1st impeller and the 2nd impeller are provided in the common rotating shaft, the 1st impeller is arranged in the upstream flow path of the 1st flow path, and the 2nd impeller is connected to a connection point or a 2nd flow path. You may arrange | position in an upstream flow path.

  In the said embodiment, the example which determines whether hot water was circulating normally through the recirculation circuit by the drive of the pump 84 and the rotation detection by the detection unit was shown. In the modification, the rotational direction of the impeller may be determined based on the detection information of the detection unit so that the presence / absence of hot water circulation can be detected. That is, the blades may be magnetized so that the pulse waveform of the detection signal output from the magnetic sensor differs according to the rotation direction of the impeller. For example, it is possible to determine when the impeller is rotating in the reverse direction or when the impeller is rotating in the reverse direction by changing the width of the adjacent N pole and S pole or by using an odd number of flat blades of the impeller. Also good.

  As a result, when the detection value of the magnetic sensor is opposite to that at the time of filling, that is, when the rotation direction of the impeller is a value indicating the opposite direction to that at the time of filling, the control unit It may be determined that the hot water is circulating in the recirculation circuit (refreshing or the reheating function is operating normally). If the detected value of the magnetic sensor is the same as when the hot water is filled, that is, if the rotation direction of the impeller is the same direction as when the hot water is filled, the control unit However, it may be determined that the recirculation circuit does not circulate (the reheating function is not being performed or the reheating function is not operating normally). In this way, if the rotation direction of the impeller can be determined, for example, it is possible to detect the flow rate of hot water flowing in the recirculation circuit. That is, a detection unit having the functions of two flow sensors can be configured.

  In the said embodiment, the example which applies the control valve unit of this invention to a hot water storage type hot-water supply apparatus was shown. In a modification, you may apply to the required location of an instant type hot-water supply apparatus. Further, the working fluid may be other than hot water and may be applied to a fluid circulation device that requires adjustment or blocking of the flow rate of the working fluid.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment and modification, A component can be deform | transformed and embodied in the range which does not deviate from a summary. Various inventions may be formed by appropriately combining a plurality of constituent elements disclosed in the above embodiments and modifications. Moreover, you may delete some components from all the components shown by the said embodiment and modification.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Hot water storage unit, 13 Bathtub, 14 Hot water storage tank, 16 Water supply pipe, 32 Hot water supply piping, 60 Control valve, 66 Check valve, 68 Detection unit, 70 Heat exchanger, 80 Connection path, 82 Circulation path, 84 Pump, 90 Branch Piping, 92 Sensor section, 93 Body, 94 Introducing pipe section, 96 Introducing / extracting pipe section, 98 Deriving pipe section, 102 First opening end, 105 First flow path, 106 First opening end, 107 Branching flow path, 108 2 open ends, 109 second flow path, 110 third open end, 111 connection point, 112 sensor body, 114 detector, 118 rotating shaft, 120 impeller, 121 rectifier, 122 vanes, 124 first bearing, 126 second Bearing, 130 impeller, 132 rectifying blade, 136 blade, 138 shielding wall, 168 Detection unit, 205 First flow path, 207 Branch flow path, 209 Second flow path, 218 Rotating shaft, 230 Impeller, 236 Blade, 268 Detection unit, 305 First flow path, 307 Branch flow path, 309 Second flow Road, 368 detection unit, 390 branch piping, 393 body, 412 sensor main body, 416 body, 418 rotating shaft, 430 impeller, 436 blade, 468 detection unit, 490 branch piping, 492 sensor unit, 493 body, 512 sensor main body, 516 body, 518 rotating shaft, 530 impeller, 536 blade, 568 detection unit, 590 branch pipe, 592 sensor unit, 593 body.

Claims (8)

A detection unit for detecting a fluid flow state,
A body in which a first flow path and a second flow path are formed, and a connection point between the first flow path and the second flow path is provided inside;
It has a rotating shaft extending from the first flow path toward the second flow path, and rotates according to each flow of the fluid passing through the first flow path and the fluid passing through the second flow path. A rotating body,
A detection unit for detecting a rotation state of the rotating body;
With
A detection unit, wherein a bearing portion that rotatably supports the rotation shaft is provided on the upstream side of the connection point in the first flow path. As the rotating body, a first rotating body that is disposed upstream of the connection point in the first flow path and receives a rotational force from a fluid flowing in the first flow path, and the connection point in the second flow path. Or a second rotating body disposed downstream of the connection point and capable of receiving a rotational force from the fluid flowing through the second flow path,
The bearing portion includes a first bearing disposed between the first rotating body and the second rotating body, and a second bearing disposed on the opposite side of the first rotating body from the first bearing. Including
The second rotating body is fixed to a portion of the rotating shaft that extends from the first bearing to the connection point side,
The detection unit according to claim 1, wherein the first bearing is provided upstream of the connection point in the first flow path. The second rotating body is disposed at the connection point;
The second flow path is formed so as to be able to supply a fluid flowing in a direction intersecting the first flow path to the second rotating body;
A rectifier that is arranged upstream of the first rotating body in the first flow path and generates a vortex for rotating the first rotating body;
A guide structure that is provided in the second flow path and guides the fluid flowing through the second flow path to a position that is biased with respect to the axis of the second rotating body;
The detection unit according to claim 2, further comprising: A first rectifier disposed upstream of the connection point in the first flow path and generating a vortex for rotating the first rotating body;
A second rectifier that is arranged upstream of the connection point in the second flow path and generates a vortex for rotating the second rotating body;
The detection unit according to claim 2, further comprising:   The detection according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the rotation direction of the second rotating body is reversed between when the fluid flows through the first flow path and when the fluid flows through the second flow path. unit.   6. The detection according to claim 2, wherein the detection unit indirectly detects a rotation state of the second rotation body by detecting a rotation state of the first rotation body. unit.   The detection unit according to claim 1, wherein the rotating body has a blade having a shape capable of converting an axial flow along the second flow path into a rotational force. A circulation circuit for circulating hot water in the bathtub;
A hot water supply pipe connected to the circulation circuit to supply conditioned hot water to the bathtub through the circulation circuit;
A first flow path connecting the hot water supply pipe and the circulation circuit and a second flow path constituting the circulation circuit are formed, and a connection point between the first flow path and the second flow path is provided inside. Branched pipes,
It has a rotating shaft extending from the first flow path toward the second flow path, and rotates according to each flow of hot water passing through the first flow path and hot water passing through the second flow path. A rotating body,
A detection unit for detecting a rotation state of the rotating body;
With
When circulating hot water in the bathtub by the circulation circuit, the circulation of hot water through the hot water supply pipe is configured to be interrupted,
A hot water supply system, wherein a bearing portion that rotatably supports the rotating shaft is provided upstream of the connection point in the first flow path.

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