JP2022022553A - Water heating device and water heating system - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a water heating device which can suppress the lowering of a temperature of hot water in a hot water storage tank even in the case that a signal corresponding to the temperature of the hot water detected in the hot water storage tank cannot be obtained, and a water heating system.SOLUTION: A water heating device 20 comprises: a pump 300 for circulating hot water between a hot water storage tank 10 and a water heater 100; a centralized control part 500 for performing a circulation heating operation for heating by the water heater 100 by circulating the hot water in the storage tank 10 by the pump 300 when acquiring a heating request signal from a temperature adjuster 32 on the basis of a temperature of the hot water in the storage tank 10 being equal to or lower than a first heating temperature; and a temperature sensor 170 for detecting an incoming water temperature at the water heater 100. When a first reference time elapses without the input of the heating request signal, the centralized control part 500 circulates the hot water in the storage tank 10 by the pump 300, and detects the incoming water temperature by the temperature sensor 170, and when the incoming water temperature is equal to or lower than a second heating temperature, the centralized control part heats the hot water by the circulation heating operation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a hot water supply device that heats hot water circulating between the hot water storage tank and the hot water storage tank. The present invention also relates to a hot water supply system including these hot water storage tanks and hot water supply devices.

Conventionally, a hot water storage type in which a hot water storage tank and a water heater are connected by a circulation pipe, hot water circulated between the water heater and the hot water is stored in the hot water storage tank, and hot water is supplied from the hot water storage tank to the faucet. A hot water supply system is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

In such a hot water supply system, the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank is detected by a temperature sensor arranged in the hot water storage tank, and a temperature signal corresponding to the temperature of the hot water water is input to the control unit. When the temperature of the hot water becomes lower than the preset temperature, the control unit drives the circulation pump to flow the hot water in the hot water tank to the water heater, burns the water heater to heat the hot water, and heats the hot water. Return to the hot water tank. As a result, the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank rises to an appropriate temperature.

Depending on the hot water supply system, the temperature signal from the temperature sensor may not be directly input to the control unit but may be input to the temperature controller. In this case, when the temperature of the hot water becomes lower than the preset set temperature, a signal requesting heating (heating request signal) is output from the temperature controller to the control unit, and the control unit drives the circulation pump based on this. ..

Japanese Patent No. 361396

In the above hot water supply system, if an abnormality such as a failure occurs in the temperature sensor or temperature controller, the temperature signal and heating request signal cannot be obtained, so the hot water in the hot water storage tank is circulated between the water heater and heated. There is a risk that the hot water in the hot water tank will cool down.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a hot water supply device and a hot water supply system that can suppress a decrease in the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank even when a signal corresponding to the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank cannot be obtained. ..

The hot water supply device according to the first aspect of the present invention includes a water heater connected to the hot water storage tank by a circulation path, a pump for circulating hot water between the hot water storage tank and the water heater, and hot water in the hot water storage tank. When a predetermined signal output from the signal output unit is acquired based on the fact that the temperature of the water heater is equal to or lower than the first reference temperature, the hot water in the hot water storage tank is circulated by the pump and heated by the water heater. It includes an operation control unit that executes a heating operation, and a temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of hot water flowing into the water heater as the incoming water temperature. Here, when the first reference time elapses without the predetermined signal being input, or when an abnormal signal is acquired from the signal output unit, the operation control unit circulates the hot water in the hot water storage tank by the pump. Then, the water entry temperature is detected by the temperature detection unit, and when the water entry temperature is equal to or lower than the second reference temperature, the hot water is heated by the circulation heating operation, and the water entry temperature becomes the second reference temperature. If it is higher, stop the pump.

For example, the water heater may be configured to include a flow rate detection unit that detects the flow rate of the inflowing hot water. In this case, in the circulation heating operation, the water heater starts heating the hot water when the detected flow rate of the flow rate detection unit exceeds a predetermined flow rate due to the circulation of the hot water by the pump.

Here, in claim 1, a predetermined signal is input to the phrase "when the first reference time elapses without the predetermined signal being input, or when an abnormal signal is acquired from the signal output unit". As a result of only determining whether or not the first reference time has elapsed without being performed, the case where the first reference time has elapsed without inputting a predetermined signal and whether or not an abnormal signal has been acquired from the signal output unit. As a result of performing only the determination of, the case where an abnormal signal is acquired from the signal output unit, the determination of whether or not the first reference time has elapsed without inputting a predetermined signal, and the acquisition of an abnormal signal from the signal output unit. As a result of performing both determinations as to whether or not the signal has been obtained, the case where the first reference time has elapsed without a predetermined signal being input, or the case where an abnormal signal is acquired from the signal output unit is included. That is, it means that at least one of the elapse of the first reference time without inputting a predetermined signal and the acquisition of an abnormal signal from the signal output unit is a condition.

According to the hot water supply device according to this aspect, even when an abnormality occurs in the signal output unit and a predetermined signal cannot be obtained, when the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank drops, the hot water is heated by the water heater. It is possible to keep the hot water in the hot water tank warm.

In the hot water supply device according to this embodiment, the operation control unit notifies the notification unit of an abnormality based on the fact that the circulation heating operation based on the water entry temperature being equal to or lower than the second reference temperature is performed. Let me.

For example, the operation control unit can make the notification unit perform an abnormality notification when the circulation heating operation based on the water entry temperature being equal to or lower than the second reference temperature is performed even once, and the circulation heating operation is predetermined. When it is performed a number of times, the notification unit can be made to perform an abnormality notification.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to notify the user that an abnormality may have occurred in the signal output unit.

In the hot water supply device according to this embodiment, a configuration may be adopted in which a plurality of water heaters and a centralized control unit for performing coordinated control for operating the plurality of water heaters in cooperation with each other are provided. In this case, the centralized control unit functions as the operation control unit.

In the case of the above configuration, the plurality of water heaters further include a device control unit that controls the water heater according to a command from the centralized control unit, and a flow rate that detects the flow rate of hot water flowing into the water heater. It may be configured to include a detection unit. In this case, the equipment control unit of one of the plurality of water heaters may be configured to be capable of driving the pump. Then, when the device control unit of the one water heater continues the state in which the detected flow rate of the flow rate detection unit does not exceed the predetermined flow rate for the second reference time, the hot water in the hot water storage tank is circulated by the pump. The water entry temperature is detected by the temperature detection unit, and when the water entry temperature is equal to or lower than the second reference temperature, the hot water is heated by the circulation heating operation, and the water entry temperature is higher than the second reference temperature. If it is high, stop the pump.

According to the above configuration, even if the centralized control unit cannot operate normally, when the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank drops, the hot water can be heated by the water heater, and the hot water in the hot water storage tank can be heated. You can keep warm.

In the hot water supply device according to this embodiment, the signal output unit may be configured to include a temperature controller connected to a temperature sensor arranged in the hot water storage tank. In this case, the predetermined signal includes a signal requesting heating of hot water.

According to the above configuration, even if an abnormality occurs in the temperature sensor or temperature controller and a signal requesting heating cannot be obtained, when the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank drops, the hot water is supplied to the water heater. It can be heated with, and the hot water in the hot water tank can be kept warm.

In the hot water supply device according to this embodiment, the signal output unit may be configured to include a temperature sensor arranged in the hot water storage tank. In this case, the predetermined signal includes a temperature signal indicating a temperature equal to or lower than the first reference temperature.

According to the above configuration, even when an abnormality occurs in the temperature sensor and a temperature signal indicating a temperature equal to or lower than the first reference temperature cannot be obtained, when the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank drops, the hot water is concerned. Can be heated with a water heater to keep the hot water in the hot water storage tank warm.

The hot water supply device according to the second aspect of the present invention includes a water heater connected to the hot water storage tank by a circulation path, a pump for circulating hot water between the hot water storage tank and the water heater, and hot water in the hot water storage tank. When a predetermined signal output from the signal output unit is acquired based on the fact that the temperature of the water heater is equal to or lower than the first reference temperature, the hot water in the hot water storage tank is circulated by the pump and heated by the water heater. It includes an operation control unit that executes a heating operation, and a temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of hot water flowing into the water heater as the incoming water temperature. Here, when the operation control unit acquires an abnormal signal from the signal output unit, the hot water in the hot water storage tank is circulated by the pump, the temperature detection unit detects the water entry temperature, and the pump is used. While operating, when the water entry temperature becomes equal to or lower than the second reference temperature, heating by the water dispenser is performed, and when the water entry temperature becomes higher than the second reference temperature to the third reference temperature or higher, heating by the water supply device is performed. Stop.

According to the hot water supply device according to this aspect, the same effect as that of the first aspect can be obtained.

The hot water supply system according to the third aspect of the present invention includes a hot water storage tank and a hot water supply device according to the first or second aspect.

According to the hot water supply system according to this aspect, the same effect as that of the hot water supply device according to the first aspect can be obtained.

As described above, according to the present invention, there is provided a hot water supply device and a hot water supply system that can suppress a decrease in the temperature of hot water in a hot water storage tank even when a signal corresponding to the temperature of hot water detected in the hot water storage tank cannot be obtained. can do.

The effects or significance of the present invention will be further clarified by the description of the embodiments shown below. However, the embodiments shown below are merely examples for implementing the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to those described in the following embodiments.

FIG. 1 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a hot water supply system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the operation control of heat insulation according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the hot water supply system according to the first modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the hot water supply system according to the second modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an operation control of preliminary heat insulation according to the second modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the hot water supply system according to the third modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation control of heat insulation according to the third modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the hot water supply system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the hot water supply system according to the modified example of the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation control of heat insulation according to other modified examples.

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

In the first and second embodiments, the temperature controller 32 corresponds to the "signal output unit" described in the claims. Further, the primary side circulation path 200 corresponds to the "circulation path" described in the claims. Further, the temperature sensor 170 corresponds to the "temperature detection unit" described in the claims. Further, the first heating temperature corresponds to the "first reference temperature" described in the claims, and the second heating temperature corresponds to the "second reference temperature" described in the claims.

In the first embodiment, the centralized control unit 500 corresponds to the "operation control unit" described in the claims. Further, the remote controller 600 corresponds to the "notification unit" described in the claims.

In the second embodiment, the device control unit 160 corresponds to the "operation control unit" described in the claims. Further, the display unit 190 corresponds to the "notification unit" described in the claims.

However, the above description is intended only for the purpose of associating the configuration of the claims with the configuration of the embodiment, and the invention described in the scope of claims by the above association is the configuration of the embodiment. It is not limited in any way.

<First Embodiment>
First, the hot water supply system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described.

FIG. 1 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the hot water supply system 1.

The hot water supply system 1 according to the first embodiment includes a hot water storage tank 10, a hot water supply device 20, a temperature control unit 30, and a secondary circulation path 40.

The hot water storage tank 10 has, for example, a vertically long substantially columnar shape. The inside of the hot water storage tank 10 is always full due to the stored hot water. A water supply pipe 50 is connected to the bottom of the hot water storage tank 10. The water supply pipe 50 is connected to a water tap. The hot water storage tank 10 may have a columnar shape that is not vertically long, that is, has a diameter larger than the height, or may have another shape.

The hot water supply device 20 includes a plurality of water heaters 100, a primary circulation path 200, a pump 300, a pump drive unit 400, a centralized control unit 500, and a remote controller 600.

In the present embodiment, the hot water supply device 20 includes four water heaters 100. Hereinafter, when distinguishing the four water heaters 100, they are referred to as Unit 1 100a, Unit 2 100b, Unit 3 100c, and Unit 4 100d from the side closer to the hot water storage tank 10. The number of water heaters 100 included in the hot water supply device 20 is not limited to four.

The water heater 100 includes a heat exchanger 110, a combustor 120, and a combustion fan 130. The heat exchanger 110 and the combustor 120 are arranged in the can body 101. A water inlet pipe 140 and a water outlet pipe 150 are connected to the heat exchanger 110. The combustor 120 burns with gas and heats the hot water flowing through the heat exchanger 110. The combustion fan 130 sends air to the combustor 120.

Further, the water heater 100 includes an equipment control unit 160, a temperature sensor 170, a flow rate sensor 180, and a display unit 190. The temperature sensor 170 and the flow rate sensor 180 are arranged in the water inlet pipe 140. The temperature sensor 170 detects the temperature of the hot water flowing through the water inlet pipe 140, that is, the hot water flowing into the water heater 100 (hereinafter referred to as the water inlet temperature), and outputs a temperature signal according to the water inlet temperature to the device control unit 160. The flow rate sensor 180 detects the flow rate of hot water flowing through the water inlet pipe 140, that is, the hot water flowing into the water heater 100, and outputs a flow rate signal according to the detected flow rate to the equipment control unit 160. The display unit 190 includes LEDs and the like, and performs various notifications related to the water heater 100, such as error notification.

The equipment control unit 160 includes a microcomputer and the like, and drives and controls a combustor 120, a combustion fan 130, a display unit 190 and the like.

The equipment control unit 160 operates the combustor 120 and the combustion fan 130 when hot water flows in the water inlet pipe 140 and the detected flow rate of the flow rate sensor 180 exceeds a predetermined flow rate in a state where combustion is permitted. .. As a result, the hot water flowing through the heat exchanger 110 is heated, and the heated hot water water flows through the water discharge pipe 150 and is discharged from the water heater 100. After that, when the hot water does not flow in the water inlet pipe 140 and the detected flow rate of the flow rate sensor 180 becomes equal to or less than the predetermined flow rate, the device control unit 160 stops the combustor 120 and the combustion fan 130. In the water heater 100 that is not set to allow combustion, the combustor 120 does not burn even if hot water flows through the water inlet pipe 140. Therefore, the hot water flows through the water discharge pipe 150 without being heated and is discharged from the water heater 100.

The water heater 100 may be a latent heat recovery type water heater including a primary heat exchanger and a secondary heat exchanger.

The primary circulation path 200 includes an outward pipe 210 and a return pipe 220. The outgoing pipe 210 is connected to the lower part of the hot water storage tank 10 and the water inlet pipe 140 of each water heater 100. The return pipe 220 is connected to the upper part of the hot water storage tank 10 and the water discharge pipe 150 of each water heater 100.

The pump 300 is arranged in the outgoing pipe 210 of the primary side circulation path 200, and circulates hot water between the hot water storage tank 10 and the plurality of water heaters 100. That is, when the pump 300 operates, hot water flows out from the lower part of the hot water storage tank 10 to the outgoing pipe 210, and the hot water flowing through each water heater 100 and the return pipe 220 returns to the upper part of the hot water storage tank 10.

The pump drive unit 400 includes a relay for switching between supply and stop of electric power to the pump 300, and drives the pump 300 according to control signals (drive command, stop command) from the centralized control unit 500.

The centralized control unit 500 is installed in one of the plurality of water heaters 100, for example, the unit 100a. The centralized control unit 500 includes a microcomputer and the like, and controls the pump drive unit 400 and the remote controller 600.

Further, the centralized control unit 500 is communicably connected to the device control unit 160 of the plurality of water heaters 100. The centralized control unit 500 performs cooperative control to operate a plurality of water heaters 100 in cooperation with each other by transmitting various commands to each device control unit 160.

For example, the centralized control unit 500 transmits a permission command for permitting combustion to the equipment control unit 160 of one water heater 100. The device control unit 160 that has received the permission command sets to allow combustion. The centralized control unit 500 periodically switches the water heater 100 that allows combustion. In this case, the centralized control unit 500 transmits a revocation command for revoking the permission to the water heater 100 that has permitted combustion, and transmits a permission command to the new water heater 100. As a result, each water heater 100 heats the hot water supplied to the hot water storage tank 10 while periodically taking turns.

In addition, each water heater 100 is provided with a flow rate adjusting valve (not shown) in the water inlet pipe 140, and the flow rate of the hot water flowing into the water heater 100 which is not permitted to burn is the water heater 100 which is permitted to burn. Adjustment is performed by the flow rate adjusting valve so that the flow rate is significantly smaller than the flow rate flowing into the water heater.

The remote controller 600 includes an operation display unit 610 such as a touch panel and a speaker 620.

The temperature control unit 30 includes a temperature sensor 31 and a temperature controller 32 connected to the temperature sensor 31. The temperature sensor 31 is arranged in the hot water storage tank 10, detects the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10, and outputs a temperature signal according to the detected temperature to the temperature controller 32. In the present embodiment, the temperature sensor 31 is arranged at a position lower than the center of the hot water storage tank 10 and higher than the position where the outgoing pipe 210 of the primary circulation path 200 is connected. The temperature sensor 31 may be arranged at the central portion of the hot water storage tank 10 or at a position higher than the central portion.

When the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 31 becomes equal to or lower than the first heating temperature (for example, 65 ° C.), the temperature controller 32 centralizes a signal requesting heating of hot water (hereinafter referred to as a heating request signal) to the hot water supply device 20. Output to the control unit 500. Further, the temperature controller 32 has a first stop temperature (for example, 70 ° C.) or higher, which is higher than the first heating temperature after the detection temperature of the temperature sensor 31 becomes lower than the first heating temperature (for example, 65 ° C.). Then, a signal requesting the stop of heating (hereinafter referred to as a stop request signal) is output to the centralized control unit 500. For example, the heating request signal is a voltage signal of several volts, and the stop request signal is a voltage signal of 0V.

The inlet 40a of the secondary circulation path 40 is connected to the upper part of the hot water storage tank 10, and the outlet 40b is connected to the lower part of the hot water storage tank 10. A pump 41 is arranged in the secondary circulation path 40 and always operates. By the operation of the pump 41, hot water circulates between the hot water storage tank 10 and the secondary circulation path 40. That is, the hot water flowing out from the upper part of the hot water storage tank 10 flows through the secondary circulation path 40 and returns to the lower part of the hot water storage tank 10.

A plurality of faucets 2 such as a bathroom faucet with a shower, a kitchen faucet, and a washbasin faucet are connected to the secondary side circulation path 40 via a connecting path 42. Note that FIG. 1 shows only one faucet 2 for convenience. When the faucet 2 is opened, hot water flowing through the secondary circulation path 40 is discharged from the faucet 2. As a result, when the amount of hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 decreases, the water from the tap is supplied to the hot water storage tank 10 through the water supply pipe 50.

In the hot water supply system 1, when the faucet 2 is opened and hot water flows out from the hot water storage tank 10, water is supplied from the water supply pipe 50 to the hot water storage tank 10, so that the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 may decrease. Further, even when the hot water supply from the hot water storage tank 10 is not performed for a long period of time such as at midnight, the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 may decrease.

Therefore, in the hot water supply system 1, when the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 drops, the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 is circulated and heated with the hot water supply device 20, and the centralized control unit 500 controls the operation of heat retention. Will be executed.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the operation control of heat insulation.

When the hot water supply system 1 is in the operating state, the centralized control unit 500 repeatedly executes the operation control of the heat retention shown in FIG.

The centralized control unit 500 monitors the input of the heating request signal from the temperature controller 32 (S101). When the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 becomes equal to or lower than the first heating temperature, a heating request signal is transmitted from the temperature controller 32 to the centralized control unit 500.

When the heating request signal is input (S101: YES), the centralized control unit 500 drives the pump 300 by transmitting a drive command to the pump drive unit 400 (S102). Hot water circulates between the hot water storage tank 10 and the hot water supply device 20, and the combustor 120 burns in the water heater 100 that is permitted to burn. As a result, the circulating hot water is heated. In this way, the circulation heating operation is started.

By supplying the heated hot water to the hot water storage tank 10, the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 gradually rises. If a large amount of hot water flows out from the hot water storage tank 10 due to the opening of many faucets 2, the amount of water supplied from the water supply pipe 50 increases, so heating is performed only by the water heater 100 that is permitted to burn. However, it is possible that the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 will continue to decrease. In such a case, the centralized control unit 500 permits combustion to the other water heater 100, and heating by the other water heater 100 is started. At this time, in the other water heater 100, the flow rate adjusting valve is adjusted so that the flow rate increases.

The centralized control unit 500 monitors the input of the stop request signal from the temperature controller 32 (S103). When the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 rises to the first stop temperature or higher, a stop request signal is transmitted from the temperature controller 32 to the centralized control unit 500.

When the stop request signal is input (S103: YES), the centralized control unit 500 stops the pump 300 by transmitting a stop command to the pump drive unit 400 (S104).

While monitoring the input of the heating request signal in S101, the centralized control unit 500 further determines whether or not the first reference time (for example, 1 hour) has elapsed without the input of the heating request signal (for example, 1 hour). S105).

Normally, the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 becomes lower than the first heating temperature by the time when the first reference time elapses, and the heating request signal is often transmitted from the temperature controller 32. Therefore, when the input of the heating request signal is not performed for the first reference time, it is suspected that an abnormality such as a failure has occurred in the temperature sensor 31 or the temperature controller 32 of the temperature control unit 30.

Therefore, the centralized control unit 500 drives the pump 300 (S106) when the first reference time elapses without inputting the heating request signal (S105: YES). After that, when the standby time (for example, 5 minutes) elapses, the centralized control unit 500 sets the water entry temperature detected by the temperature sensor 170 of the water heater 100 to which combustion is permitted to the device control unit 160 of the water heater 100. Acquired via (S108). The standby time is set in consideration of the time required for the hot water from the hot water storage tank 10 to reach the water heater 100 after the pump 300 is driven, regardless of which water heater 100 is permitted to burn. To.

Next, the centralized control unit 500 determines whether or not the incoming water temperature is equal to or lower than the second heating temperature (S109). The second heating temperature may be a temperature (for example, 55 ° C.) lower than the first heating temperature by a predetermined temperature (for example, 10 ° C.). This is because the position of the outgoing pipe 210 connected to the hot water storage tank 10 is lower than the temperature sensor 31 arranged in the hot water storage tank 10, and the temperature of the hot water flowing out from the hot water storage tank 10 to the outgoing pipe 210 is the detection temperature of the temperature sensor 31. This is because the temperature is slightly lower, the temperature of the hot water is slightly lowered while flowing through the going pipe 210, and the like. If the incoming water temperature (detected temperature of the temperature sensor 170) and the detected temperature of the temperature sensor 31 are not so different, the second heating temperature may be the same as the first heating temperature.

When the temperature control unit 30 (temperature sensor 31, temperature controller 32) is normal, the incoming water temperature is often higher than the second heating temperature. The centralized control unit 500 stops the pump 300 when the incoming water temperature is higher than the second heating temperature (S109: NO).

On the other hand, when the temperature control unit 30 is abnormal, the water entry temperature is often equal to or lower than the second heating temperature. The centralized control unit 500 continues the operation of the pump 300 when the incoming water temperature is equal to or lower than the second heating temperature (S109: YES). When hot water circulates between the hot water storage tank 10 and the hot water supply device 20 due to the operation of the pump 300, the water heater 100 that is permitted to burn operates for combustion, so that the circulation heating operation is started and the circulating hot water is started. Is heated. As a result, the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 rises.

The centralized control unit 500 is provided with a counter (not shown) for counting the number of circulation heating operations based on the water entry temperature being equal to or lower than the second heating temperature. The centralized control unit 500 increases the count value of the counter by one (S110).

After that, the centralized control unit 500 periodically acquires the incoming water temperature (S111) and determines whether or not the acquired incoming water temperature is equal to or higher than the second stop temperature (S112). The second stop temperature is set to, for example, the same temperature as the first stop temperature. Alternatively, the second stop temperature may be set to a temperature slightly higher or lower than the first stop temperature.

As the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 rises, the incoming water temperature rises, and when the second stop temperature is exceeded (S112: YES), the centralized control unit 500 stops the pump 300 (S113).

Next, the centralized control unit 500 determines whether or not the count value of the counter has reached the reference value (for example, 10) (S114). When the count value, that is, the number of circulation heating operations based on the entry temperature being equal to or lower than the second heating temperature reaches the reference value (reference number of times) (S114: YES), the centralized control unit 500 is the temperature control unit 30. The remote controller 600 is made to perform an abnormality notification to notify that an abnormality may have occurred in the remote controller 600 (S115). For example, a message is displayed on the operation display unit 610 of the remote controller 600. Alternatively, an alarm sound or a message sound is output from the speaker 620 of the remote controller 600.

<Effect of the first embodiment>
According to this embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

When the first reference time elapses without inputting the heating request signal from the temperature controller 32, the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 is circulated by the operation of the pump 300, the incoming water temperature is detected by the temperature sensor 170, and the incoming water temperature becomes the second. When the temperature is below the reference temperature, the circulation of hot water continues and the hot water is heated by the circulation heating operation. As a result, even if an abnormality occurs in the temperature sensor 31 or the temperature controller 32 of the temperature control unit 30 and the heating request signal cannot be obtained, when the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 drops, the hot water is used. It can be heated by the hot water supply device 20, and the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 can be kept warm.

Further, since the abnormality notification is performed based on the circulation heating operation based on the fact that the incoming water temperature is equal to or lower than the second reference temperature, there is a possibility that an abnormality has occurred in the temperature sensor 31 or the temperature controller 32. It is possible to inform the user of this.

<Example 1 of modification of the first embodiment>
FIG. 3 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the hot water supply system 1 according to the modified example 1.

In the first embodiment, the hot water supply device 20 is provided with a centralized control unit 500. On the other hand, in the present modification 1, as shown in FIG. 3, the hot water supply device 20 is not provided with the centralized control unit 500, and instead, any one of the water heaters 100, and in the present modification 1, the first unit 100a The device control unit 160 is in charge of the function of the centralized control unit 500 of the first embodiment.

A heating request signal and a stop request signal are input from the temperature controller 32 to the device control unit 160 of the Unit 1 100a. Further, the equipment control unit 160 of the Unit 1 100a controls the pump drive unit 400 and the remote controller 600. Further, the device control unit 160 of the first machine 100a is communicably connected to the device control unit 160 of the second machine 100b, the third machine 100c, and the fourth machine 100d.

Then, in the first modification, the device control unit 160 of the Unit 1 100a executes the operation control of the heat retention shown in FIG.

In the first modification, the device control unit 160 corresponds to the "operation control unit" described in the claims.

<Modification 2 of the first embodiment>
FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the hot water supply system 1 according to the modified example 2.

In the first embodiment, the centralized control unit 500 controls the pump drive unit 400 to drive and stop the pump 300. On the other hand, in this modified example 2, as shown in FIG. 4, not only the centralized control unit 500 but also any one water heater 100 in which the centralized control unit 500 is not installed (Unit 2 in this modified example 1). The equipment control unit 160 of 100b) is also configured to be able to control the pump drive unit 400 and drive and stop the pump 300.

Then, in the present modification 2, in case the centralized control unit 500 cannot operate normally due to a failure or the like, the device control unit 160 of the unit 2 100b executes the operation control of the preliminary heat insulation.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation control of the preliminary heat insulation according to the second modification.

When the hot water supply system 1 is in the operating state, the device control unit 160 of the unit 2 100b repeatedly executes the operation control of the preliminary heat retention shown in FIG.

The device control unit 160 monitors whether or not hot water is flowing to the water heater 100 during the second reference time, that is, whether or not the detected flow rate of the flow rate sensor 180 exceeds a predetermined flow rate (S201). The second reference time is set to a time slightly longer than the first reference time (for example, 1 hour and 10 minutes).

When the centralized control unit 500 operates normally and the operation control shown in FIG. 2 is executed, the pump 300 operates with the passage of the first reference time, so that the water heater 100 is filled with hot water before the second reference time elapses. Flows.

On the other hand, when the centralized control unit 500 does not operate normally due to a failure or the like and the operation control of FIG. 2 is not executed, the second reference time elapses without the hot water flowing to the water heater 100. In this case, the device control unit 160 determines in S201 that hot water is not flowing to the water heater 100 during the second reference time (S201: YES), and drives the pump 300 in place of the centralized control unit 500 (S202). .. Then, the device control unit 160 performs the operation control of S203 to S212 of FIG. 5, which is the same operation control as S107 to S115 of FIG. As a result, the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 is circulated by the operation of the pump 300, the incoming water temperature is detected by the temperature sensor 170, and when the incoming water temperature is equal to or lower than the second reference temperature, the hot water circulation is continuously circulated and heated. The hot water is heated by the operation. Further, the abnormality notification is performed based on the fact that the circulation heating operation is performed based on the fact that the incoming water temperature is equal to or lower than the second reference temperature.

However, in S212 of FIG. 5, the device control unit 160 causes the display unit 190 of the Unit 2 100b to notify that an abnormality may have occurred in the centralized control unit 500. For example, in the display unit 190, an LED indicating an abnormality is turned on.

According to the configuration of the second modification, even if the centralized control unit 500 cannot operate normally, when the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 drops, the hot water can be heated by the hot water supply device 20. The heat of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 can be kept warm.

In the second modification, the flow rate sensor 180 corresponds to the "flow rate detection unit" described in the claims.

<Example 3 of modification of the first embodiment>
FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the hot water supply system 1 according to the modified example 3. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation control of heat insulation according to the third modification.

In the first embodiment, the temperature controller 32 outputs a heating request signal or a stop request signal to the centralized control unit 500 based on the detected temperature of the temperature sensor 31. On the other hand, in the third modification, as shown in FIG. 6, a temperature signal corresponding to the detected temperature is output to the centralized control unit 500 from the temperature sensor 31 arranged in the hot water storage tank 10.

Then, in the third modification, the heat insulating operation control of FIG. 7 is executed instead of the heat insulating operation control of FIG. 2 executed in the first embodiment.

The centralized control unit 500 periodically acquires a temperature signal corresponding to the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 (hereinafter referred to as the hot water temperature) from the temperature sensor 31 (S301), and the hot water temperature is the first heating temperature (for example). , 65 ° C.) or less (S302). Then, the centralized control unit 500 drives the pump 300 (S303) when the hot water temperature is equal to or lower than the first heating temperature (S302: YES). Hot water circulates between the hot water storage tank 10 and the hot water supply device 20, and the hot water is heated.

After that, the centralized control unit 500 periodically acquires the hot water temperature from the temperature sensor 31, and controls the water inlet temperature detected by the temperature sensor 170 of the water heater 100 to which combustion is permitted. Acquired via unit 160 (S304). Then, when either the hot water temperature or the incoming water temperature becomes equal to or higher than the first stop temperature (for example, 70 ° C.) (S305: YES), the centralized control unit 500 stops the pump 300 (S306).

When the centralized control unit 500 determines in S302 that the hot water temperature is not equal to or lower than the first heating temperature, whether or not the temperature signal acquired at that time shows an abnormal value (for example, a value of several hundred ° C.), and It is determined whether or not the first reference time has elapsed without inputting a temperature equal to or lower than the first heating temperature (corresponding temperature signal) (S307, S308).

If the temperature signal shows an abnormal value or the first reference time elapses without inputting a temperature below the first heating temperature, it is suspected that an abnormality such as a failure has occurred in the temperature sensor 31. Therefore, in this case (S307: YES, S308: YES), the centralized control unit 500 drives the pump 300 (S309). Then, the centralized control unit 500 performs the operation control of S310 to S318 of FIG. 7, which is the same operation control as S107 to S115 of FIG. As a result, the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 is circulated by the operation of the pump 300, the incoming water temperature is detected by the temperature sensor 170, and when the incoming water temperature is equal to or lower than the second reference temperature, the hot water circulation is continuously circulated and heated. The hot water is heated by the operation. Further, the abnormality notification is performed based on the fact that the circulation heating operation is performed based on the fact that the incoming water temperature is equal to or lower than the second reference temperature.

In the above example, it is determined whether or not the temperature signal shows an abnormal value (S307), and whether or not the first reference time has elapsed without inputting a temperature equal to or lower than the first heating temperature (S308). Although both determinations have been made, only one of the determinations may be made.

It should be noted that the configuration of the above-mentioned modification 1 or the above-mentioned modification 2 can be applied to the configuration of the present modification 3. Further, in the third modification, the temperature sensor 31 corresponds to the "signal output unit" described in the claims.

<Second Embodiment>
Next, the hot water supply system 3 according to the second embodiment will be described.

FIG. 8 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the hot water supply system 3. In FIG. 8, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations as those of the first embodiment.

The hot water supply system 3 according to the second embodiment includes a hot water storage tank 10, a hot water supply device 20A, a temperature control unit 30, and a secondary circulation path 40. That is, the configuration of the hot water supply system 3 other than the hot water supply device 20A is the same as that of the hot water supply system 1 of the first embodiment.

The hot water supply device 20A includes one water heater 100, a primary circulation path 200, a pump 300, and a pump drive unit 400.

The water heater 100 is arranged so as to be adjacent to the hot water storage tank 10. A heating request signal and a stop request signal are input from the temperature controller 32 to the device control unit 160 of the water heater 100. Further, the equipment control unit 160 controls the pump drive unit 400.

In the hot water supply system 3 of the present embodiment, the device control unit 160 executes the operation control of the heat retention shown in FIG. However, the standby time of S107 is set to a shorter time (for example, 1 minute) than that of the first embodiment. Further, in S115, the device control unit 160 causes the display unit 190 to notify the display unit 190 that an abnormality may have occurred in the temperature control unit 30. For example, in the display unit 190, an LED indicating an abnormality is turned on.

The hot water supply device 20A may be provided with a remote controller. In this case, the remote controller notifies the abnormality.

Also in this embodiment, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained.

<Example of modification of the second embodiment>
FIG. 9 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the hot water supply system 3 according to the modified example.

In the second embodiment, the temperature controller 32 outputs a heating request signal or a stop request signal to the device control unit 160 based on the detected temperature of the temperature sensor 31. On the other hand, in this modification, as shown in FIG. 9, a temperature signal corresponding to the detected temperature is output to the device control unit 160 from the temperature sensor 31 arranged in the hot water storage tank 10.

Then, in this modification, instead of the heat insulation operation control of FIG. 2 executed in the first embodiment, the heat insulation operation control of FIG. 7 executed in the modification 3 is executed. However, the waiting time of S310 is set to a shorter time (for example, 1 minute) than that of the third modification. Further, in S318, the device control unit 160 causes the display unit 190 to notify the display unit 190 that an abnormality may have occurred in the temperature sensor 31. For example, in the display unit 190, an LED indicating an abnormality is turned on.

In the third modification, the temperature sensor 31 corresponds to the "signal output unit" described in the claims.

Although the first embodiment, the second embodiment of the present invention and the modified examples thereof have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and modified examples, and the present invention is as follows. Further various changes are possible.

<Other changes>
In the first and second embodiments and their modified examples, in the operation control of heat insulation shown in FIGS. 2 and 7, and the operation control of preliminary heat insulation shown in FIG. 5, the water entry temperature is the second in S112, S209 and S315. 2 The pump 300 was stopped when the stop temperature was exceeded. However, instead of this, the pump 300 may be stopped when a preset operating time has elapsed. Alternatively, the pump 300 may be configured not to be stopped unless a predetermined operation is performed. However, if the pump 300 is not stopped, the hot water supply temperature set by the water heater 100 may be set to a temperature lower than the normal set temperature (for example, 95 ° C.), for example, the same temperature as the first heating temperature.

Further, in the first and second embodiments and their modified examples, in the operation control of the heat insulation shown in FIGS. 2 and 7, and the operation control of the preliminary heat insulation shown in FIG. 5, the pump 300 is operated in S106, S202 and S309. When driven, hot water flows through the water heater 100 and the water heater 100 burns. That is, the circulation heating operation is started before the standby time elapses and the incoming water temperature is acquired. However, even if the pump 300 is driven in S106, S202 and S309 and hot water flows through the water heater 100, the water heater 100 is prevented from burning, and it is determined that the water inlet temperature is equal to or lower than the second heating temperature and the pump 300 is used. The water heater 100 may be configured to perform a combustion operation and start a circulation heating operation when the operation of the above is continued.

Further, in the first and second embodiments and the modified examples thereof, in the operation control of the heat insulation shown in FIGS. 2 and 7, and the operation control of the preliminary heat insulation shown in FIG. 5, the water entry temperature is set to S114, S211 and S317. When the number of circulation heating operations based on the fact that the temperature is equal to or lower than the second heating temperature reaches the reference value (reference number of times), the abnormality notification is performed. However, if the circulation heating operation based on the fact that the incoming water temperature is equal to or lower than the second heating temperature is performed even once, the abnormality notification may be performed.

Further, in the first and second embodiments, the second heating temperature and the second stop temperature may be fixed values, but when the first heating temperature and the first stop temperature differ depending on the temperature control unit 30. , The second heating temperature and the second stopping temperature may be set by using the remote controller 600 according to the first heating temperature and the first stopping temperature.

Further, in the first and second embodiments, when the pump 300 is driven in S102 of FIG. 2, the incoming water temperature after the standby time has elapsed is detected, and the incoming water temperature is set to the second heating temperature. You may do it. Similarly, the entry temperature may be detected when the pump 300 is stopped in S104 of FIG. 2, and the entry temperature may be set to the second stop temperature.

Further, in the first and second embodiments, the temperature sensor 170 is used as a temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of the hot water flowing into the water heater as the incoming water temperature. However, instead of the temperature sensor 170, or together with the temperature sensor 170, other temperature sensors included in the water heater, for example, a can body hot water temperature sensor, a hot water discharge temperature sensor, etc., which are arranged in the water discharge pipe 150 or the like, are used. You may.

Further, in the case of the configuration of the modification 3 of the first embodiment, the heat insulating operation control shown in FIG. 10 may be executed instead of the heat insulating operation control shown in FIG. 7. In this operation control, the processing of S401 to S407 is the same as the processing of S301 to S307 of FIG. 7, and the processing of the determination of S308 of FIG. 7 is not performed. In this modified example, the second stop temperature corresponds to the "third reference temperature" described in the claims.

In S407, when the centralized control unit 500 determines that the temperature signal shows an abnormal value (S407: YES), the centralized control unit 500 causes the remote controller 600 to notify the abnormality (S408) and drives the pump 300 (S409). When the pump 300 operates, the water heater 100 that is permitted to burn performs the combustion operation accordingly.

When the standby time elapses (S410: YES), the centralized control unit 500 acquires the entry temperature (S411) and determines whether or not the entry temperature is equal to or higher than the second stop temperature (for example, 70 ° C.). (S412).

If the incoming water temperature is equal to or higher than the second stop temperature (S412: YES), the centralized control unit 500 sends a stop command to the water heater 100 permitted to burn and stops the combustion operation (S413). Further, if the incoming water temperature is not equal to or higher than the second stop temperature (S412: NO), the centralized control unit 500 waits for the incoming water temperature to be equal to or higher than the second stop temperature before stopping the combustion operation (S413). As a result, the heating of the circulating hot water is stopped.

After that, the centralized control unit 500 periodically acquires the incoming water temperature (S414), and when the incoming water temperature becomes equal to or lower than the second heating temperature (for example, 67 ° C.) (S415: YES), the water heater 100 permitted to burn. Is sent to start the combustion operation (S416). As a result, heating of the circulating hot water is started.

After that, the processes of S411 to S416 are repeated until the user or the like performs an operation for canceling the abnormality.

In this way, even when the heat retention operation control shown in FIG. 10 is performed, the heat retention of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 10 can be achieved when a normal temperature signal cannot be obtained, as in the above-mentioned modification 3.

In addition, when the configuration of the modified example of the second embodiment is adopted, the operation control of the heat insulation of FIG. 10 may be executed by the device control unit 160.

Further, in the first and second embodiments, the hot water supply devices 20 and 20A include a communication unit, and information for abnormality notification is transmitted to an external terminal device (for example, a personal computer or a smart phone) via the communication unit. By doing so, the terminal device may be notified of the abnormality.

In addition, the embodiments of the present invention can be appropriately modified within the scope of the claims.

1, 3 Hot water supply system 10 Hot water storage tank 20, 20A Hot water supply device 30 Temperature control unit 31 Temperature sensor (signal output unit)
32 Temperature controller (signal output section)
100 Water heater 160 Equipment control unit (operation control unit)
170 Temperature sensor (Temperature detector)
180 Flow sensor (flow detector)
200 Primary side circulation path (circulation path)
300 Pump 500 Centralized control unit (operation control unit)
600 remote controller (notification unit)

Claims (8)

A water heater connected to the hot water tank by a circulation path,
A pump that circulates hot water between the hot water storage tank and the water heater,
When a predetermined signal output from the signal output unit is acquired based on the fact that the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank is equal to or lower than the first reference temperature, the hot water in the hot water storage tank is circulated by the pump. An operation control unit that executes a circulation heating operation that heats with a water heater,
A temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of the hot water flowing into the water heater as the entry temperature is provided.
When the first reference time elapses without the predetermined signal being input, or when the operation control unit acquires an abnormal signal from the signal output unit, the operation control unit receives.
The hot water in the hot water storage tank is circulated by the pump, and the water entry temperature is detected by the temperature detection unit.
When the water entry temperature is equal to or lower than the second reference temperature, the hot water is heated by the circulation heating operation.
If the water entry temperature is higher than the second reference temperature, the pump is stopped.
A water heater characterized by that. In the hot water supply device according to claim 1,
The operation control unit causes the notification unit to notify an abnormality based on the fact that the circulation heating operation based on the water entry temperature being equal to or lower than the second reference temperature is performed.
A water heater characterized by that. In the hot water supply device according to claim 1 or 2.
With multiple water heaters,
It is equipped with a centralized control unit that performs coordinated control to operate the plurality of water heaters in cooperation with each other.
The centralized control unit functions as the operation control unit.
A water heater characterized by that. In the hot water supply device according to claim 3,
The multiple water heaters
An equipment control unit that controls the water heater according to a command from the centralized control unit,
Includes a flow rate detection unit that detects the flow rate of hot water flowing into the water heater.
The equipment control unit of one of the plurality of water heaters can drive the pump.
When the device control unit of the one water heater continues the state in which the detected flow rate of the flow rate detection unit does not exceed the predetermined flow rate for the second reference time,
The hot water in the hot water storage tank is circulated by the pump, and the water entry temperature is detected by the temperature detection unit.
When the water entry temperature is equal to or lower than the second reference temperature, the hot water is heated by the circulation heating operation.
If the water entry temperature is higher than the second reference temperature, the pump is stopped.
A water heater characterized by that. In the hot water supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
The signal output unit includes a temperature controller connected to a temperature sensor arranged in the hot water storage tank.
The predetermined signal includes a signal requesting heating of hot water.
A water heater characterized by that. In the hot water supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
The signal output unit includes a temperature sensor arranged in the hot water storage tank, and includes a temperature sensor.
The predetermined signal includes a temperature signal indicating a temperature equal to or lower than the first reference temperature.
A water heater characterized by that. A water heater connected to the hot water tank by a circulation path,
A pump that circulates hot water between the hot water storage tank and the water heater,
When a predetermined signal output from the signal output unit is acquired based on the fact that the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank is equal to or lower than the first reference temperature, the hot water in the hot water storage tank is circulated by the pump. An operation control unit that executes a circulation heating operation that heats with a water heater,
A temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of the hot water flowing into the water heater as the entry temperature is provided.
When the operation control unit acquires an abnormal signal from the signal output unit,
The hot water in the hot water storage tank is circulated by the pump, and the water entry temperature is detected by the temperature detection unit.
While the pump is operating, when the water inlet temperature becomes equal to or lower than the second reference temperature, the water heater heats the water heater, and when the water inlet temperature becomes higher than the second reference temperature to the third reference temperature or higher, the water heater is used. Stop heating by,
A water heater characterized by that. With a hot water tank
The hot water supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 is provided.
A hot water supply system characterized by that.

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