JP2023105545A - Fine bubble generation device - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a technique which can reduce an information amount related to a liquid level of a tank and can secure rapidity of determination processing related to opening/closing of a gas introduction valve.SOLUTION: A fine bubble generation device disclosed by the present invention includes a tank, a tank supply path, a pressure pump, a tank discharge path, a fine bubble generation nozzle, a tank circulation path, a tank circulation pump, a gas introduction mechanism, a liquid level electrode and a control device. The gas introduction mechanism includes a gas introduction port, a decompression part and a gas introduction valve which opens/closes the gas introduction port. The control device can execute the fine bubble generation operation of compressing and supplying liquid to the tank by driving the pressure pump and supplying liquid in which gas is pressurized and dissolved to the liquid tank from the tank. The control device supplies the gas introduced from the gas introduction port to the tank by circulating the liquid in the tank in the tank circulation path by driving the tank circulation pump during the execution of the fine bubble generation operation, and controls the opening/closing operation of the gas introduction valve on the basis of information about whether or not the liquid level of the tank detected by the liquid level electrode is equal to or greater than a prescribed liquid level.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

The present specification relates to a microbubble generator.

Patent Document 1 discloses a tank for pressurizing and dissolving a gas into a liquid, a tank supply path for supplying the liquid to the tank, a pressurizing pump provided in the tank supply path, and a liquid tank from the tank to the liquid tank. A tank discharge path for discharging the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved, and a microbubble generating nozzle provided in the tank discharge path for depressurizing the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved to generate microbubbles. and a tank circulation path provided separately from the tank discharge path for sending the liquid from an outlet connected to the tank to an inlet connected to the tank, and a tank circulation path provided in the tank circulation path A tank circulation pump, a gas introduction mechanism provided in the tank circulation path, two liquid level electrodes capable of detecting whether or not the liquid level in the tank is equal to or higher than a predetermined liquid level, and a controller. A microbubble generator is disclosed. The gas introduction mechanism includes a decompression unit that decompresses the liquid to pass through, a gas introduction port that introduces the gas by the negative pressure of the liquid in the decompression unit, and a gas introduction valve that opens and closes the gas introduction port. It has The control device drives the pressure pump to pressurize and supply the liquid from the tank supply passage to the tank, and pressurize the gas from the tank to the liquid tank through the tank discharge passage. A microbubble generation operation can be performed that supplies the dissolved liquid. The control device drives the tank circulation pump to circulate the liquid in the tank in the tank circulation path during execution of the fine bubble generation operation, thereby reducing the gas introduced from the gas introduction port to the Information on whether the liquid level in the tank is greater than or equal to the lower liquid level supplied to the tank and detected by one of the two liquid level electrodes and detected by the other of the two liquid level electrodes. The opening/closing operation of the gas introduction valve is controlled based on information as to whether the liquid level in the tank is equal to or higher than the upper liquid level.

JP 2015-127052 A

In the micro-bubble generator, it is sometimes desired to reduce the amount of information regarding the liquid level in the tank in order to ensure quickness of determination processing regarding opening and closing of the gas introduction valve. In the microbubble generator of Patent Document 1, the control device provides information regarding whether the liquid level in the tank is equal to or higher than the lower liquid level and information regarding whether the liquid level in the tank is equal to or higher than the upper liquid level. is configured to control the opening/closing operation of the gas introduction valve. In such a micro-bubble generator, the amount of information regarding the liquid level in the tank is relatively large, and there is a possibility that the determination processing regarding the opening and closing of the gas introduction valve may be lacking in promptness. The present specification provides a technique capable of reducing the amount of information relating to the liquid level in the tank and ensuring the promptness of determination processing relating to the opening and closing of the gas introduction valve. In this specification, the microbubble generator provided with two liquid level electrodes may be described by distinguishing between the two liquid level electrodes as "lower liquid level electrode" and "upper liquid level electrode". Here, the "lower liquid level" is a lower liquid level than the "upper liquid level".

The microbubble generator disclosed in the present specification includes a tank for pressurizing and dissolving gas in a liquid, a tank supply path for supplying the liquid to the tank, a pressure pump provided in the tank supply path, and the a tank discharge path for discharging the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved from the tank to the liquid tank; A fine bubble generating nozzle to be generated and the tank discharge path are provided separately, and a tank circulation path for sending the liquid from an outlet connected to the tank to an inlet connected to the tank, and the tank A tank circulation pump provided in a circulation path, a gas introduction mechanism provided in the tank circulation path, a liquid level electrode capable of detecting whether or not the liquid level in the tank is equal to or higher than a predetermined liquid level, and a control device. and have. The gas introduction mechanism includes a decompression unit that decompresses the liquid to pass through, a gas introduction port that introduces the gas by the negative pressure of the liquid in the decompression unit, and a gas introduction valve that opens and closes the gas introduction port. It has The control device drives the pressure pump to pressurize and supply the liquid from the tank supply passage to the tank, and pressurize the gas from the tank to the liquid tank through the tank discharge passage. A microbubble generation operation can be performed that supplies the dissolved liquid. The control device drives the tank circulation pump to circulate the liquid in the tank in the tank circulation path during execution of the fine bubble generation operation, thereby reducing the gas introduced from the gas introduction port to the The opening/closing operation of the gas introduction valve is controlled based on information indicating whether or not the liquid level in the tank, which is supplied to the tank and detected by the liquid level electrode, is equal to or higher than a predetermined liquid level.

Another microbubble generator disclosed in the present specification includes a tank for pressurizing and dissolving gas in a liquid, a tank supply path for supplying the liquid to the tank, and a pressure pump provided in the tank supply path. a tank discharge path for discharging the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved from the tank to the liquid tank; A fine bubble generating nozzle for generating bubbles and a tank circulation path provided separately from the tank discharge path for sending the liquid from an outlet connected to the tank to an inlet connected to the tank; A tank circulation pump provided in the tank circulation path, a gas introduction mechanism provided in the tank circulation path, and a single liquid level capable of detecting whether the liquid level in the tank is equal to or higher than a predetermined liquid level. An electrode and a controller are provided. The gas introduction mechanism includes a decompression unit that decompresses the liquid to pass through, a gas introduction port that introduces the gas by the negative pressure of the liquid in the decompression unit, and a gas introduction valve that opens and closes the gas introduction port. It has The control device drives the pressure pump to pressurize and supply the liquid from the tank supply passage to the tank, and pressurize the gas from the tank to the liquid tank through the tank discharge passage. A microbubble generation operation can be performed that supplies the dissolved liquid. The control device drives the tank circulation pump to circulate the liquid in the tank in the tank circulation path during execution of the fine bubble generation operation, thereby reducing the gas introduced from the gas introduction port to the The opening/closing operation of the gas introduction valve is controlled based on information on whether or not the liquid level in the tank, which is supplied to the tank and detected by the single liquid level electrode, is equal to or higher than a predetermined liquid level.

According to the above configuration, the control device controls the opening/closing operation of the gas introduction valve based on information regarding whether the liquid level in the tank is equal to or higher than the predetermined liquid level, which is detected by one liquid level electrode. is configured to Therefore, it is possible to reduce the amount of information related to the liquid level in the tank and to secure the speed of determination processing related to opening and closing of the gas introduction valve.

In one or more embodiments, the controller detects that the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level while the gas introduction valve is open during execution of the microbubble generation operation. is detected by the position electrode, the gas introduction valve is closed, the gas introduction valve is kept closed until the first predetermined time elapses after the gas introduction valve is closed, and the first predetermined time is reached. After the passage of time, the gas introduction valve may be opened.

In the microbubble generator, droplets scattered from the liquid surface of the tank adhere to the liquid level electrode, which may cause the liquid level electrode to become slimy. If the liquid level electrode becomes slimy, the liquid level in the tank may be erroneously detected. For example, the microbubble generator has a lower liquid level electrode and an upper liquid level electrode, and the controller controls the gas introduction valve so that the liquid level in the tank changes between the lower liquid level and the upper liquid level. When carrying out control of the opening and closing movements, the upper liquid level electrode is substantially not submerged in liquid. For this reason, it is not possible to suppress the occurrence of slime in the upper liquid level electrode, and there is a risk of erroneous detection of the liquid level in the tank. According to the above configuration, by frequently immersing the liquid level electrode in the liquid during execution of the microbubble generating operation, it is possible to suppress the generation of sliminess in the liquid level electrode. Therefore, erroneous detection of the liquid level in the tank can be suppressed.

In one or more embodiments, during execution of the microbubble generation operation, the control device opens the gas introduction valve that is in the closed state, and then the liquid level in the tank rises below the predetermined liquid level. The time elapsed from when the liquid level electrode is detected to be low to when the gas introduction valve is closed is specified as an inspiratory time, and when the inspiratory time exceeds the upper limit inspiratory time, the pressure pump is driven thereafter. You may reduce the rotation speed of the said pressurization pump of.

If the inspiration time is too long, it is assumed that either too much liquid is supplied to the tank or too little gas is introduced by the gas introduction mechanism. Also, the higher the rotation speed of the pressure pump, the greater the amount of liquid supplied to the tank, and the lower the rotation speed of the pressure pump, the less the amount of liquid supplied to the tank. According to the above configuration, when the intake time exceeds the upper limit intake time, that is, when the intake time is too long, the rotation speed of the pressure pump is reduced to reduce the amount of liquid supplied to the tank. , the intake time can be shortened.

In one or more embodiments, during execution of the microbubble generation operation, the control device opens the gas introduction valve that is in the closed state, and then the liquid level in the tank rises below the predetermined liquid level. The time elapsed from when the liquid level electrode is detected to be low to when the gas introduction valve is closed is specified as an inspiratory time, and when the inspiratory time is below the minimum inspiratory time, the pressurization pump is driven thereafter. You may increase the said rotation speed of the said pressurization pump of.

If the inspiration time is too short, it is assumed that either too little liquid is supplied to the tank or too much gas is introduced by the gas introduction mechanism. According to the above configuration, when the intake time is below the lower limit intake time, that is, when the intake time is too short, the rotation speed of the pressure pump is increased to increase the amount of liquid supplied to the tank. , the inspiratory time can be extended.

In one or more embodiments, during execution of the microbubble generation operation, the control device opens the gas introduction valve that is in the closed state, and then the liquid level in the tank rises below the predetermined liquid level. A state in which the gas introduction valve is opened after the time elapsed from when the liquid level electrode is detected to be low to when the gas introduction valve is closed is specified as an inspiratory time, and when the inspiratory time exceeds the upper limit inspiratory time. , the number of revolutions of the tank circulation pump may be increased when driving the tank circulation pump.

If the inspiration time is too long, it is assumed that either too much liquid is supplied to the tank or too little gas is introduced by the gas introduction mechanism. Further, when the gas introduction valve is open, the higher the rotation speed of the tank circulation pump, the greater the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism. The amount of gas is reduced. According to the above configuration, when the intake time exceeds the upper limit intake time, that is, when the intake time is too long, the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism is reduced by increasing the rotation speed of the tank circulation pump. It is possible to increase the intake time and shorten the intake time.

In one or more embodiments, during execution of the microbubble generation operation, the control device opens the gas introduction valve that is in the closed state, and then the liquid level in the tank rises below the predetermined liquid level. A state in which the gas introduction valve is opened after the time elapsed from when the liquid level electrode is detected to be low to when the gas introduction valve is closed is specified as an inspiratory time, and when the inspiratory time is less than the lower limit inspiratory time The number of revolutions of the tank circulation pump may be reduced when driving the tank circulation pump in .

If the inspiration time is too short, it is assumed that either too little liquid is supplied to the tank or too much gas is introduced by the gas introduction mechanism. According to the above configuration, when the intake time is less than the lower limit intake time, that is, when the intake time is too short, the rotation speed of the tank circulation pump is reduced to reduce the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism. It is possible to reduce it and extend the inspiratory time.

In one or more embodiments, the controller is operable during execution of the microbubble generation operation to determine whether a stop condition for stopping the microbubble generation operation is met, and A stop process for stopping the fine bubble generation operation may be executed when the conditions are satisfied. When the stop process is executed, the control device opens the gas introduction valve while driving the pressurizing pump and the tank circulation pump, and maintains the liquid level in the tank while the gas introduction valve is open. is lower than the predetermined liquid level, the gas introduction valve is closed, and a second predetermined time that is longer than the first predetermined time after the gas introduction valve is closed until the gas introduction valve is kept closed, and after the second predetermined time has elapsed, the pressurizing pump and the tank circulation pump are stopped to stop the microbubble generating operation. good too.

According to the above configuration, the microbubble generating operation can be stopped while the liquid level electrode is immersed in the liquid. As a result, it is possible to suppress the generation of slime in the liquid level electrode and to suppress erroneous detection of the liquid level in the tank. Further, according to the above configuration, when stopping the microbubble generating operation, the liquid level electrode is immersed in the liquid up to the portion above the portion immersed in the liquid during the normal operation. Therefore, it is possible to more appropriately suppress the occurrence of slime in the liquid level electrode.

In one or more embodiments, the controller controls that the liquid level in the tank is equal to or higher than the predetermined liquid level while the gas introduction valve is closed during execution of the microbubble generation operation. When the level is detected by the liquid level electrode, the gas introduction valve is opened, the gas introduction valve is kept open until a third predetermined time elapses after the gas introduction valve is opened, and the third After a predetermined time has passed, the gas introduction valve may be closed.

For example, the microbubble generator has a lower liquid level electrode and an upper liquid level electrode, and the controller controls the gas introduction valve so that the liquid level in the tank changes between the lower liquid level and the upper liquid level. When carrying out control of the opening and closing movements, the length of the lower liquid level electrode must be relatively long. In this case, the weight of the entire device may be increased. According to the above configuration, the length of the liquid level electrode can be relatively short. Therefore, the weight of the entire device can be reduced.

In one or more embodiments, the liquid may be water. The liquid bath may be a bathtub used for bathing by the user.

According to the above configuration, in the microbubble generator that generates microbubbles in the water of the bathtub used by the user for bathing, the amount of information related to the water level in the tank is reduced, and the determination process related to the opening and closing of the gas introduction valve is performed quickly. can ensure the integrity of the

1 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a water heater 2 of Examples 1 to 3; FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing an example of water flow in the bathtub adapter 132 of the water heater 2 of Examples 1 to 3; FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing another example of water flow in the bathtub adapter 132 of the water heater 2 of Examples 1 to 3; 4 is a diagram schematically showing an example of water flow in the water heater 2 of Examples 1 to 3. FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing another example of water flow in the water heaters 2 of Examples 1 to 3; FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing still another example of water flow in the water heaters 2 of Examples 1 to 3; 4 is a flowchart of processing executed by the control device 150 in the microbubble generation operation of the water heater 2 of Embodiment 1. FIG. 10 is a flowchart of stop processing executed by the control device 150 during the processing shown in FIG. 7, the processing shown in FIG. 9, or the processing shown in FIG. be. 10 is a flow chart of processing executed by the control device 150 in microbubble generation operation of the water heater 2 of Embodiment 2. FIG. 10 is a flow chart of processing executed by the control device 150 in the microbubble generation operation of the water heater 2 of Example 3. FIG.

(Example 1)
As shown in FIG. 1, the water heater 2 of this embodiment includes a heat source unit 10, an air pressure dissolving unit 50, a bathtub adapter 132, and a control device 150. As shown in FIG. The water heater 2 heats water supplied from a water supply source 200 such as tap water, and supplies the water heated to a desired temperature to the faucet 250 installed in the kitchen or the like and the bathtub 130 installed in the bathroom. can do. Moreover, the water heater 2 can generate fine air bubbles in the water of the bathtub 130 used by the user for bathing.

(Configuration of heat source unit 10)
The heat source unit 10 includes a first heat source device 12, a second heat source device 14, a water supply path 16, a hot water outlet path 18, a bypass path 20, a bypass servo 22, a hot water pouring path 24, and a hot water filling valve 26. , a water quantity sensor 28 , an outward circulation path 30 , a return circulation path 32 , a bathtub circulation pump 34 , and a water flow switch 36 .

The upstream end of the water supply path 16 is connected to the water supply source 200 , and the downstream end of the water supply path 16 is connected to the first heat source machine 12 . The upstream end of the hot water outlet 18 is connected to the first heat source machine 12 , and the downstream end of the hot water outlet 18 is connected to the callan 250 . The first heat source device 12 is, for example, a combustion heat source device that heats water by combustion of gas. The first heat source machine 12 heats the water flowing from the water supply channel 16 and sends the heated water to the hot water outlet channel 18 .

The upstream end of the bypass 20 is connected to the water supply channel 16 and the downstream end of the bypass 20 is connected to the hot water outlet 18 . A bypass servo 22 is provided at a location where the bypass passage 20 connects to the water supply passage 16 . The bypass servo 22 adjusts the amount of water flowing from the water supply path 16 through the first heat source machine 12 to the hot water supply path 18 and the bypass path 20 from the water supply path 16 by adjusting the opening degree of the built-in valve body. It is possible to adjust the flow rate of the water flowing through to the hot water outlet 18 . By adjusting the degree of opening of the bypass servo 22, high-temperature water flowing from the first heat source machine 12 and low-temperature water flowing from the bypass 20 flow into the hot water outlet passage 18 on the downstream side of the location where the bypass 20 is connected. are mixed in a desired ratio, and water adjusted to a desired temperature is supplied. A hot water outlet temperature thermistor 18a for detecting the temperature of the water in the hot water outlet path 18 is provided in the hot water outlet 18 downstream of the location where the bypass 20 is connected.

The upstream end of the hot water pouring channel 24 is connected to the hot water outlet channel 18 on the downstream side of the location where the bypass 20 is connected, and the downstream end of the hot water pouring channel 24 is connected to the circulation return channel 32 . The hot water filling valve 26 is provided in the pouring path 24 and opens and closes the pouring path 24 . The hot water filling valve 26 is normally closed. A water quantity sensor 28 is provided in the pouring path 24 and detects the quantity of water flowing through the pouring path 24 .

The upstream end of the circulation return path 32 is connected to the heat source return path 60 (details will be described later) of the air pressure melting unit 50 , and the downstream end of the circulation return path 32 is connected to the second heat source machine 14 . The upstream end of the outward circulation path 30 is connected to the second heat source device 14, and the downstream end of the outward circulation path 30 is connected to the outward heat source path 68 (details will be described later) of the pressurized air melting unit 50. . The second heat source device 14 is, for example, a combustion heat source device that heats water by combustion of gas. The second heat source machine 14 heats the water flowing from the return circulation path 32 and sends the heated water to the outward circulation path 30 . A return circulation path thermistor 32 a for detecting the temperature of the water in the return circulation path 32 is provided near the upstream end of the return circulation path 32 . An outward circulation path thermistor 30 a that detects the temperature of the water in the outward circulation path 30 is provided near the downstream end of the outward circulation path 30 .

The bathtub circulation pump 34 is provided in the return circulation path 32 on the downstream side of the connection point of the hot water supply path 24 , and sends out the water in the return circulation path 32 toward the second heat source machine 14 . The water flow switch 36 is provided between the bathtub circulation pump 34 and the second heat source machine 14 in the return circulation path 32 and detects whether or not water is flowing through the return circulation path 32 .

(Configuration of air pressurized dissolving unit 50)
The air pressurized dissolving unit 50 includes a tank 52 , a heat source return line 60 , a heat source return line 68 , a tank return line 74 , a tank return line 64 , a communication line 66 , a first three-way valve 80 , and a second three-way valve 82 . , a check valve 84 , a tank water supply valve 86 , a first pressure pump 88 , a second pressure pump 90 , a tank circulation path 92 , a tank circulation pump 94 and a gas introduction mechanism 96 .

The tank 52 is used to pressurize and dissolve air in water to produce air-dissolved water. The tank 52 can store water inside. A water level electrode 54 for detecting the water level in the tank 52 and a ground electrode (not shown) are installed inside the tank 52 . When the water level electrode 54 touches the surface of the water stored in the tank 52 , current flows between the water level electrode 54 and the ground electrode, and an ON signal is output to the control device 150 . That is, the water level electrode 54 is configured to detect whether or not the water level in the tank 52 is equal to or higher than a predetermined water level. Below, the water level in the tank 52 detected by the water level electrode 54 may be called "boundary water level."

One end of the heat source return path 60 is connected to the communication path 66 , and the other end of the heat source return path 60 is connected to the circulation return path 32 of the heat source unit 10 . The communication passage 66 connects the first three-way valve 80 and the second three-way valve 82 . A communication passage 66 , a first bathtub water passage 62 , and a tank forward passage 64 are connected to the first three-way valve 80 . The first three-way valve 80 has a first communication state (see FIG. 6) in which the tank outward passage 64 and the first bathtub water passage 62 are in communication, and a second communication state (see FIG. 6) in which the tank outward passage 64 and the communication passage 66 are in communication. 1) and a third communication state (see FIGS. 4 and 5) in which the first bathtub water passage 62, the tank forward passage 64, and the communication passage 66 are in communication. The upstream end of the tank outward passage 64 is connected to the lower portion of the tank 52 , and the downstream end of the tank outward passage 64 is connected to the first three-way valve 80 . The forward tank passage 64 is provided with a check valve 84 that allows water to flow from the tank 52 toward the first three-way valve 80 and prohibits water from flowing from the first three-way valve 80 toward the tank 52. ing. One end of the first bathtub water channel 62 is connected to the first three-way valve 80 and the other end of the first bathtub water channel 62 is connected to the bathtub adapter 132 .

One end of the heat source outward path 68 is connected to the circulation outward path 30 of the heat source unit 10 , and the other end of the heat source outward path 68 is connected to the second three-way valve 82 . The second three-way valve 82 is connected with the communication passage 66 , the heat source outward passage 68 , and the second bathtub water passage 70 . The second three-way valve 82 is in a fourth communicating state (see FIG. 6) in which the second bathtub water passage 70 and the communicating passage 66 communicate, and in a fifth communicating state (see FIGS. 4 and 5) can be switched. One end of the second bathtub water channel 70 is connected to the second three-way valve 82 , and the other end of the second bathtub water channel 70 is connected to the bathtub adapter 132 .

The upstream end of the tank return path 74 is connected to the heat source outward path 68, and the downstream end of the tank return path 74 is connected to the tank 52 via the water supply port 74a. The tank water supply valve 86 is provided in the tank return path 74 and opens and closes the tank return path 74 . The tank water supply valve 86 is normally closed. The first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 are provided between the tank water supply valve 86 and the tank 52 in the tank return path 74 . The first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 pressurize the water in the tank return path 74 and send it toward the tank 52 . In the tank return path 74 , the first pressure pump 88 is arranged upstream of the second pressure pump 90 .

The upstream end of the tank circulation path 92 (hereinafter also referred to as an outlet port 92 a ) is connected to the bottom of the tank 52 , and the downstream end of the tank circulation path 92 is connected to the tank downstream of the second pressure pump 90 . It is connected to the return path 74 . The water level at the location where the outflow port 92a of the tank circulation path 92 is connected to the tank 52 is lower than the boundary water level. A tank circulation pump 94 is provided in the tank circulation path 92 . The tank circulation pump 94 sucks the water in the tank 52 into the tank circulation path 92 through the outflow port 92a, and pumps the water in the tank circulation path 92 into the tank 52 through the water supply port 74a at the downstream end of the tank return path 74. to dispense.

The gas introduction mechanism 96 is provided in the tank circulation path 92 on the upstream side of the tank circulation pump 94 . The gas introduction mechanism 96 includes a water inlet pipe 98 , a water outlet pipe 100 , a venturi pipe 102 , a gas introduction path 104 and a gas introduction valve 106 . Water flows into the water inlet pipe 98 from the upstream side of the tank circulation path 92 . The water outlet pipe 100 allows water to flow out to the downstream side of the tank circulation path 92 . A venturi tube 102 communicates the water inlet pipe 98 and the water outlet pipe 100 . The diameter of venturi tube 102 is smaller than the diameters of inlet pipe 98 and outlet pipe 100 . The water flowing through the gas introduction mechanism 96 is decompressed to a pressure lower than atmospheric pressure when flowing from the water inlet pipe 98 to the venturi pipe 102 and is increased to the original pressure when flowing from the venturi pipe 102 to the water outlet pipe 100 . The upstream end of gas introduction path 104 (hereinafter also referred to as gas introduction port 104 a ) is open to the atmosphere, and the downstream end is connected to venturi tube 102 . The gas introduction valve 106 is provided in the gas introduction path 104 and opens and closes the gas introduction path 104 . When water flows through the gas introduction mechanism 96, if the gas introduction valve 106 is open, air is sucked into the gas introduction passage 104 from the gas introduction port 104a and mixed with the water flowing through the venturi tube 102. . The air introduced through the gas introduction path 104 flows into the tank 52 together with the water flowing through the tank circulation path 92 . The gas introduction valve 106 is normally closed.

(Configuration of bathtub adapter 132)
Next, the bathtub adapter 132 provided on the wall portion 130a of the bathtub 130 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 2 shows the bathtub adapter 132 in a state where water flows from the first bathtub water channel 62 toward the bathtub 130 and water flows from the bathtub 130 toward the second bathtub water channel 70 (for example, the state of FIG. 6). water flow. FIG. 3 shows the bathtub adapter 132 in a state where water flows from the bathtub 130 toward the first bathtub water channel 62 and water flows from the second bathtub water channel 70 toward the bathtub 130 (for example, the state shown in FIG. 5). water flow.

Bathtub adapter 132 includes a first water channel 136 and a second water channel 138 . The first water channel 136 communicates with the first bathtub water channel 62 , and the second water channel 138 communicates with the second bathtub water channel 70 . The first water channel 136 branches into a first discharge channel 136a and a first suction channel 136b. The first discharge passage 136 a communicates with a first discharge port 134 a provided on the front surface 132 a of the bathtub adapter 132 . Water discharged from the first outlet 134a into the bathtub 130 is discharged in front of the wall portion 130a of the bathtub 130, that is, in a direction perpendicular to the wall portion 130a of the bathtub 130. As shown in FIG. In the first discharge passage 136a, a non-return portion 140a for preventing the flow of water from the bathtub 130 toward the first bathtub water passage 62 and a non-return portion 140a disposed on the upstream side (first bathtub water passage 62 side) of the non-return portion 140a. A fine bubble generating nozzle 142 is provided. The microbubble generating nozzle 142 reduces the pressure of water passing through the microbubble generating nozzle 142 . The first suction path 136b communicates with a first suction port 134b provided on the front surface 132a of the bathtub adapter 132. As shown in FIG. The first suction passage 136b is provided with a non-return portion 140b that prevents water from flowing from the first bathtub water passage 62 toward the bathtub 130. As shown in FIG.

The second water channel 138 branches into a second discharge channel 138a and a second suction channel 138b. The second suction path 138b communicates with a second suction port 134c provided on the front surface 132a of the bathtub adapter 132 . The second suction passage 138b is provided with a non-return portion 140c that prevents water from flowing from the second bathtub water passage 70 toward the bathtub 130. As shown in FIG. The second discharge passage 138 a communicates with a second discharge port 134 d provided on the lower surface 132 b of the bathtub adapter 132 . The water discharged from the second discharge port 134d is discharged downward, that is, in a direction parallel to the wall portion 130a of the bathtub 130. As shown in FIG. A non-return portion 140d that prevents water from flowing from the bathtub 130 toward the second bathtub water passage 70 is provided in the second discharge passage 138a.

(Configuration of control device 150)
A control device 150 shown in FIG. 1 controls the operation of each component of the heat source unit 10 and the pressurized air melting unit 50 . Control device 150 is configured to communicate with a user-operable remote control 154 . The control device 150 includes a memory 152, and can store various settings such as the set temperature and the set amount of water for the hot water refilling operation and the set temperature for the reheating operation input by the user. Via the remote control 154, the user can instruct the start and end of the hot water filling operation, the reheating operation, and the microbubble generation operation, which will be described later.

(Hot water filling operation)
The hot water filling operation is started when the user instructs the start of the hot water filling operation with the remote controller 154 . Alternatively, the hot water filling operation may be started when the user sets the start time of the hot water filling operation in the remote controller 154 and the control device 150 determines that the hot water filling operation start time has arrived. When starting the hot water filling operation, the control device 150 puts the first three-way valve 80 and the second three-way valve 82 in the third communication state and the fifth communication state, respectively (see FIGS. 4 and 5). When the hot water filling operation is started, the control device 150 opens the hot water filling valve 26 and starts heating by the first heat source machine 12 . As a result, as shown in FIG. 4, the water whose temperature is adjusted to the set temperature flows from the hot water supply path 18 to the circulation return path 32 via the hot water supply path 24 . The water that has flowed into the circulation return path 32 branches into a flow toward the upstream side (that is, the heat source return path 60) and a flow toward the downstream side (that is, the second heat source machine 14). Water flowing from the circulation return path 32 to the heat source return path 60 flows into the bathtub 130 via the communication path 66 , the first three-way valve 80 , the first bathtub water path 62 and the bathtub adapter 132 . Water flowing from the return circulation path 32 to the second heat source machine 14 flows into the bathtub 130 via the outward circulation path 30 , the outward heat source path 68 , the second three-way valve 82 , the second bathtub water passage 70 , and the bathtub adapter 132 . The control device 150 waits until the integrated amount of water detected by the water amount sensor 28 reaches the set amount of water for the hot water filling operation. The term "integrated water volume" as used herein means the integrated water volume detected by the water volume sensor 28 after the hot water filling operation is started. When the integrated amount of water reaches the set amount of water, the control device 150 closes the hot water filling valve 26 and ends the heating of water by the first heat source device 12 . After that, the control device 150 notifies the user via the remote controller 154 that the hot water filling operation is completed, and ends the hot water filling operation.

(Reheating operation)
The reheating operation is started when the user instructs the start of the reheating operation with the remote controller 154 . Alternatively, the reheating operation is started when the controller 150 determines that the temperature detected by the return circulation thermistor 32a is less than the set temperature after the first heat source device 12 finishes heating water in the hot water filling operation. You may When starting the reheating operation, the control device 150 brings the first three-way valve 80 into the third communication state and brings the second three-way valve 82 into the fifth communication state (see FIGS. 4 and 5). From this state, the controller 150 drives the bathtub circulation pump 34 and starts heating water by the second heat source machine 14 . As a result, as shown in FIG. 5, the water in the bathtub 130 flows through the bathtub adapter 132, the first bathtub water channel 62, the first three-way valve 80, the communication channel 66, the heat source return channel 60, and the circulation return channel 32 to the second heat source. sent to machine 14. The water heated by the second heat source machine 14 is returned to the bathtub 130 via the outward circulation path 30 , the outward heat source path 68 , the second three-way valve 82 , the second bathtub water passage 70 , and the bathtub adapter 132 . When the temperature detected by the return circulation thermistor 32a reaches or exceeds the set temperature, the control device 150 stops the bathtub circulation pump 34 and ends the water heating by the second heat source device 14 . After that, the control device 150 informs the user that the reheating operation is completed via the remote control 154, and ends the reheating operation.

(Fine bubble generation operation)
The microbubble generation operation is started when the user instructs the start of the microbubble generation operation with the remote controller 154 . Further, in the water heater 2 of the present embodiment, after the above-described hot water filling operation is completed, the microbubble generating operation is automatically started. That is, the microbubble generation operation is performed in conjunction with the execution of the hot water filling operation. The control device 150 puts the first three-way valve 80 and the second three-way valve 82 in the third communication state and the fifth communication state, respectively (see FIGS. 4 and 5). In addition, the control device 150 opens the tank water supply valve 86 . From this state, the control device 150 executes the processing shown in FIG.

At S<b>2 , the controller 150 drives the tank circulation pump 94 . This causes water to circulate between the tank 52 and the tank circulation path 92 .

At S<b>4 , the controller 150 opens the gas introduction valve 106 . As a result, air is introduced into the water flowing through the gas introduction mechanism 96 of the tank circulation path 92 .

In S<b>6 , the control device 150 starts supplying air-dissolved water from the tank 52 to the bathtub 130 . Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, the control device 150 puts the first three-way valve 80 in the first communication state and puts the second three-way valve 82 in the fourth communication state, and then the bathtub circulation pump 34, The first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 are driven. As a result, the water in the bathtub 130 flows through the bathtub adapter 132, the second bathtub water passage 70, the second three-way valve 82, the communication passage 66, the heat source return passage 60, the circulation return passage 32, the second heat source machine 14, the circulation outward passage 30, and the heat source outward passage 68. , to the tank 52 via the tank return path 74 . At this time, water pressurized by the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 is supplied from the tank return path 74 to the tank 52 . As a result, the air is pressurized and dissolved in the water inside the tank 52 . The water in which the air is pressurized and dissolved is supplied from the tank 52 to the bathtub 130 via the tank outward passage 64 , the first three-way valve 80 , the first bathtub water passage 62 and the bathtub adapter 132 . At this time, the water in which the air is pressurized and dissolved is depressurized to below atmospheric pressure when passing through the fine bubble generating nozzle 142 of the first discharge passage 136a of the bathtub adapter 132, and is jetted into the bathtub 130. , the pressure is increased to the atmospheric pressure, and microbubbles are generated in the water in the bathtub 130 .

In S<b>8 , the controller 150 determines whether the water level in the tank 52 is below the boundary water level based on the presence or absence of the ON signal output from the water level electrode 54 . In this embodiment, the amount of air introduced into the gas introduction mechanism 96 when the gas introduction valve 106 is open is greater than the amount of microbubbles generated in the water in the bathtub 130 . Therefore, when the gas introduction valve 106 is open, the amount of air in the tank 52 increases and the water level in the tank 52 decreases. If the water level in the tank 52 is equal to or higher than the boundary water level (NO), the process repeats S8. If the water level in the tank 52 is below the boundary water level (if YES), the process proceeds to S10.

At S<b>10 , the control device 150 closes the gas introduction valve 106 . This stops the introduction of air into the water flowing through the gas introduction mechanism 96 of the tank circulation path 92 . Since air is not supplied to the tank 52 when the gas introduction valve 106 is closed, the amount of air in the tank 52 decreases and the water level in the tank 52 rises. In this embodiment, even while the gas introduction valve 106 is closed, the tank circulation pump 94 continues to be driven. This promotes water flow within the tank 52 and promotes pressurized dissolution of air into water in the tank 52 .

In S12, the control device 150 uses a built-in timer (not shown) to start measuring the water level rise time.

In S14, the control device 150 determines whether or not the water level rise time started counting in S12 exceeds a first predetermined time (for example, 90 seconds). If the water level rise time is equal to or less than the first predetermined time (NO), the process repeats S14. If the water level rise time exceeds the first predetermined time (YES), the process proceeds to S16.

In S16, the control device 150 terminates the measurement of the water level rise time by a built-in timer (not shown).

At S<b>18 , the controller 150 opens the gas introduction valve 106 . This restarts the introduction of air into the water flowing through the gas introduction mechanism 96 of the tank circulation path 92 .

In S20, control device 150 starts measuring the intake time using a built-in timer (not shown).

At S<b>22 , the control device 150 determines whether the water level of the tank 52 is below the boundary water level based on the presence or absence of the ON signal output from the water level electrode 54 . If the water level in the tank 52 is equal to or higher than the boundary water level (NO), the process repeats S22. If the water level in the tank 52 is below the boundary water level (YES), the process proceeds to S24.

At S<b>24 , the control device 150 closes the gas introduction valve 106 . This stops the introduction of air into the water flowing through the gas introduction mechanism 96 of the tank circulation path 92 .

In S26, the control device 150 terminates timing of the intake time by a built-in timer (not shown). It should be noted that control device 150 stores in memory 152 the inspiratory time when the time measurement is finished.

In S28, control device 150 determines whether or not the intake time stored in memory 152 in S26 exceeds a predetermined upper intake time limit (eg, 120 seconds). If the inspiratory time exceeds the upper limit inspiratory time (if YES), the process proceeds to S30. If the intake time is less than or equal to the upper limit intake time (NO), the process proceeds to S32.

In S30, the control device 150 reduces the rotational speeds of the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 by a predetermined value (for example, 10 Hz). This reduces the amount of water supplied to the tank 52 when the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 are subsequently driven. After S30, the process proceeds to S32.

In S32, control device 150 determines whether or not the intake time stored in memory 152 in S26 is below a predetermined minimum intake time (for example, 60 seconds). If the inspiratory time is less than the lower limit inspiratory time (if YES), the process proceeds to S34. If the intake time is equal to or longer than the lower limit intake time (NO), the process proceeds to S36.

In S34, the controller 150 increases the rotational speeds of the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 by a predetermined value (eg, 10 Hz). This increases the amount of water supplied to the tank 52 when the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 are subsequently driven. After S34, the process proceeds to S36.

In S36, the control device 150 determines whether or not a stop condition for stopping the microbubble generation operation is satisfied. In this embodiment, the stop condition is that the operating time of the microbubble generating operation has reached the set time. The operating time of the microbubble generation operation is the elapsed time from the start of the microbubble generation operation. In the water heater 2 of this embodiment, when the microbubble generating operation is executed independently without interlocking with the execution of the hot water filling operation, the set time is set to 10 minutes, for example. Unlike this, when the microbubble generation operation is executed in conjunction with the execution of the hot water filling operation, the set time is set to, for example, 30 minutes. If the stop condition is not satisfied (NO), the process returns to S12. If the stop condition is satisfied (YES), the process proceeds to S38.

In S38, the control device 150 executes stop processing (see FIG. 8) for stopping the microbubble generation operation. After S38, the process of FIG. 7 ends.

As described above, the control device 150 determines whether or not the stop condition is satisfied in the process of S36. However, the control device 150 can determine whether the stop condition is satisfied even during execution of the processes of S2 to S34. If the control device 150 determines that the stop condition is satisfied even during execution of the processes from S2 to S34, the control device 150 stops the process being executed and starts the process of S38 (that is, the stop process). configured to run.

(Stop processing)
As shown in FIG. 8, in S52, the controller 150 opens the gas introduction valve 106 if the gas introduction valve 106 is closed. This restarts the introduction of air into the water flowing through the gas introduction mechanism 96 of the tank circulation path 92 .

At S<b>54 , the controller 150 determines whether the water level of the tank 52 is below the boundary water level based on the presence or absence of the ON signal output from the water level electrode 54 . If the water level in the tank 52 is equal to or higher than the boundary water level (NO), the process repeats S54. If the water level in the tank 52 is below the boundary water level (if YES), the process proceeds to S56.

At S<b>56 , the controller 150 closes the gas introduction valve 106 . This stops the introduction of air into the water flowing through the gas introduction mechanism 96 of the tank circulation path 92 .

In S58, the control device 150 uses a built-in timer (not shown) to start measuring the water level rise time.

In S60, the control device 150 determines whether or not the water level rise time started in S58 exceeds a second predetermined time (for example, 180 seconds) that is longer than the first predetermined time. If the water level rise time is equal to or less than the second predetermined time (NO), the process repeats S60. If the water level rise time exceeds the second predetermined time (YES), the process proceeds to S62.

In S62, the control device 150 terminates the measurement of the water level rise time by a built-in timer (not shown).

In S<b>64 , controller 150 stops bathtub circulation pump 34 , first pressurization pump 88 , and second pressurization pump 90 to terminate the supply of air-dissolved water from tank 52 to bathtub 130 .

At S<b>66 , the controller 150 stops the tank circulation pump 94 . This completes the circulation of water between the tank 52 and the tank circulation path 92 . After S66, the process of FIG. 8 ends.

Thus, in the stop process, the controller 150 can stop the microbubble generation operation while the water level electrode 54 is immersed in water. 8 is higher than the water level of the tank 52 when the gas introduction valve 106 is opened in S18 of FIG. The part above the part that is immersed in water is also immersed in water. As a result, it is possible to appropriately suppress the generation of slime in the water level electrode 54 .

(Example 2)
The water heater 2 of this embodiment has substantially the same configuration as the water heater 2 of the first embodiment. In the water heater 2 of this embodiment, when executing the microbubble generating operation, the control device 150 executes the process shown in FIG. 9 instead of executing the process shown in FIG. In the following, differences between the processing shown in FIG. 9 and the processing shown in FIG. 7 will be described.

In the process shown in FIG. 9, when the intake time stored in the memory 152 in S26 exceeds the upper intake time limit (YES in S28), the process proceeds to S70. In S70, the control device 150 increases the rotation speed of the tank circulation pump 94 by a predetermined value (for example, 10 Hz). As a result, when the tank circulation pump 94 is subsequently driven with the gas introduction valve 106 open, the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 increases. After S70, the process proceeds to S32.

On the other hand, if the intake time stored in the memory 152 is less than the minimum intake time in S26 (YES in S32), the process proceeds to S72. In S72, the control device 150 reduces the rotation speed of the tank circulation pump 94 by a predetermined value (for example, 10 Hz). As a result, when the tank circulation pump 94 is subsequently driven with the gas introduction valve 106 open, the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 is reduced. After S72, the process proceeds to S36.

In S70 of the process shown in FIG. 9, the control device 150 increases the rotation speed of the tank circulation pump 94 when driving the tank circulation pump 94 with the gas introduction valve 106 open thereafter. Alternatively, the tank circulation pump 94 may be configured so as not to increase the rotation speed when the tank circulation pump 94 is driven with the gas introduction valve 106 closed. Similarly, in S72 of the process shown in FIG. 9, the control device 150 reduces the rotation speed of the tank circulation pump 94 when driving the tank circulation pump 94 with the gas introduction valve 106 open after that. After that, the tank circulation pump 94 may be configured not to reduce the rotation speed when the tank circulation pump 94 is driven with the gas introduction valve 106 closed.

(Example 3)
The water heater 2 of this embodiment has substantially the same configuration as the water heater 2 of the first embodiment. In the water heater 2 of the present embodiment, when executing the microbubble generation operation, the control device 150 executes the process shown in FIG. 10 instead of executing the process shown in FIG.

In S<b>82 , controller 150 drives tank circulation pump 94 . This causes water to circulate between the tank 52 and the tank circulation path 92 .

In S<b>84 , control device 150 starts supplying air-dissolved water from tank 52 to bathtub 130 . At this time, the control device 150 performs the same processing as S8 in FIG.

At S<b>86 , the control device 150 determines whether the water level of the tank 52 is equal to or higher than the boundary water level based on the presence or absence of the ON signal output from the water level electrode 54 . If the water level in the tank 52 is below the boundary water level (NO), the process repeats S86. If the water level in the tank 52 is equal to or higher than the boundary water level (if YES), the process proceeds to S88.

At S<b>88 , the controller 150 opens the gas introduction valve 106 . This starts the introduction of air into the water flowing through the gas introduction mechanism 96 of the tank circulation path 92 .

In S90, the control device 150 uses a built-in timer (not shown) to start measuring the water level fall time.

In S92, the control device 150 determines whether or not the water level fall time that started timing in S90 exceeds a third predetermined time (for example, 90 seconds). If the water level fall time is equal to or less than the third predetermined time (NO), the process repeats S92. If the water level fall time exceeds the third predetermined time (YES), the process proceeds to S94.

In S94, the control device 150 terminates the measurement of the water level fall time by a built-in timer (not shown).

At S<b>96 , the controller 150 closes the gas introduction valve 106 . This stops the introduction of air into the water flowing through the gas introduction mechanism 96 of the tank circulation path 92 .

In S98, the control device 150 starts measuring the exhaust time using a built-in timer (not shown).

In S100, the control device 150 determines whether or not the water level of the tank 52 is equal to or higher than the boundary water level based on the presence or absence of the ON signal output from the water level electrode 54. If the water level in the tank 52 is below the boundary water level (NO), the process repeats S100. If the water level in the tank 52 is equal to or higher than the boundary water level (if YES), the process proceeds to S102.

At S<b>102 , the controller 150 opens the gas introduction valve 106 . This restarts the introduction of air into the water flowing through the gas introduction mechanism 96 of the tank circulation path 92 .

In S104, the control device 150 terminates counting the exhaust time by a built-in timer (not shown). It should be noted that the control device 150 stores the exhaust time in the memory 152 when the timing is finished.

At S106, the controller 150 determines whether the exhaust time stored in the memory 152 at S104 exceeds a predetermined upper exhaust time limit (eg, 120 seconds). If the exhaust time exceeds the upper limit exhaust time (if YES), the process proceeds to S108. If the exhaust time is less than or equal to the upper limit exhaust time (NO), the process proceeds to S110.

In S108, the controller 150 increases the rotational speeds of the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 by a predetermined value (eg, 10 Hz). This increases the amount of water supplied to the tank 52 when the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 are subsequently driven. After S108, the process proceeds to S110.

In S110, control device 150 determines whether or not the exhaust time stored in memory 152 in S104 is below a predetermined minimum exhaust time (for example, 60 seconds). If the exhaust time is less than the lower limit exhaust time (if YES), the process proceeds to S112. If the exhaust time is equal to or longer than the lower limit exhaust time (NO), the process proceeds to S114.

In S112, control device 150 reduces the rotational speeds of first pressure pump 88 and second pressure pump 90 by a predetermined value (eg, 10 Hz). This reduces the amount of water supplied to the tank 52 when the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 are subsequently driven. After S112, the process proceeds to S114.

In S114, the control device 150 determines whether or not a stop condition for stopping the microbubble generation operation is satisfied. If the stop condition is not satisfied (NO), the process returns to S90. If the stop condition is satisfied (YES), the process proceeds to S116.

In S116, the control device 150 executes stop processing (see FIG. 8) for stopping the microbubble generation operation. After S116, the process of FIG. 10 ends.

As described above, the control device 150 determines whether or not the stop condition is satisfied in the process of S114. However, the control device 150 can determine whether the stop condition is satisfied even during execution of the processing from S82 to S112. If the control device 150 determines that the stop condition is satisfied even during the execution of the processes from S82 to S112, the control device 150 stops the process being executed and restarts the process of S116 (that is, the stop process). configured to run.

Note that in S108 of the process shown in FIG. 10, instead of increasing the rotation speeds of the first pressurization pump 88 and the second pressurization pump 90 by a predetermined value, the controller 150 increases the rotation speed of the tank circulation pump 94. It may be configured to reduce by a predetermined value (for example, 10 Hz). As a result, when the tank circulation pump 94 is subsequently driven with the gas introduction valve 106 open, the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 is reduced. Similarly, in S112 of the process shown in FIG. 10, control device 150 reduces the rotation speed of tank circulation pump 94 instead of reducing the rotation speed of first pressurization pump 88 and second pressurization pump 90 by a predetermined value. may be increased by a predetermined value (for example, 10 Hz). As a result, when the tank circulation pump 94 is subsequently driven with the gas introduction valve 106 open, the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 increases.

(Modification)
In the water heater 2 described above, air is introduced into the tank 52 , but gases such as carbon dioxide gas, hydrogen, and oxygen may be introduced into the tank 52 instead of air. In this case, a gas filling tank (not shown) filled with gas may be connected to the gas introduction port 104 a of the gas introduction path 104 .

In the above-described water heater 2, a set amount of water is stored in the bathtub 130 based on the integrated amount of water detected by the water amount sensor 28 during the hot water filling operation. In another embodiment, the water heater 2 is provided with a water level sensor capable of detecting the water level of the bathtub 130, for example. It is good also as a structure which stores the water of a setting water level.

In the water heater 2 described above, the heat source unit 10 is connected to the faucet 250 , and the pressurized air dissolving unit 50 is connected to the bathtub 130 . In another embodiment, the heat source unit 10 may be connected to other heat utilization points, and the air pressurized melting unit 50 may be connected to other liquid baths.

In the water heater 2 described above, the gas introduction mechanism 96 is arranged upstream of the tank circulation pump 94 in the tank circulation path 92 . In another embodiment, the gas introduction mechanism 96 may be arranged downstream of the tank circulation pump 94 in the tank circulation path 92 .

In the water heater 2 described above, the downstream end of the tank circulation path 92 is connected to the tank return path 74 on the downstream side of the second pressure pump 90 . In another embodiment, the downstream end of tank circuit 92 may not be connected to tank return 74 and may be provided separately from tank return 74 to tank 52 .

In the water heater 2 described above, only one water level electrode 54 is provided for detecting the water level in the tank 52 . In another embodiment, a plurality of water level electrodes for detecting the water level in tank 52 may be provided.

In the water heater 2 described above, the user may be able to switch via the remote control 154 whether or not to perform the microbubble generation operation in conjunction with the execution of the hot water filling operation.

In the water heater 2 described above, when the suction time exceeds the upper limit suction time (YES in S28 of FIG. 7 or FIG. 9), the control device 150 controls the rotation 7) or increase the rotation speed of the tank circulation pump 94 by a predetermined value (S70 in FIG. 9). In another embodiment, when the intake time exceeds the upper intake time limit, the control device 150 reduces the rotation speeds of the first pressurization pump 88 and the second pressurization pump 90 by a predetermined value, and the tank circulation pump 94 It may be configured to increase the number of revolutions by a predetermined value. In yet another embodiment, if the inspiratory time exceeds the upper inspiratory time limit, instead of correcting the rotation speeds of the first pressurization pump 88, the second pressurization pump 90, and the tank circulation pump 94, the controller 150 It may be configured to shorten the first predetermined time in S14 of FIGS. 7 and 9 . As a result, when it is subsequently detected that the water level of the tank 52 falls below the boundary water level and the water level of the tank 52 is raised (if YES in S8), the time for raising the water level of the tank 52 (S14 is repeatedly executed time) is reduced.

In the water heater 2 described above, when the intake time is less than the lower limit intake time (YES in S32 in FIGS. 7 and 9), the control device 150 controls the rotation of the first pressurization pump 88 and the second pressurization pump 90. number is increased by a predetermined value (S34 in FIG. 7), or the rotation speed of the tank circulation pump 94 is decreased by a predetermined value (S72 in FIG. 9). In another embodiment, when the intake time is below the minimum intake time limit, the control device 150 increases the rotation speeds of the first pressurization pump 88 and the second pressurization pump 90 by a predetermined value, and increases the tank circulation pump 94. It may be configured to reduce the number of revolutions by a predetermined value. In yet another embodiment, if the inspiratory time is below the lower inspiratory time limit, instead of correcting the rotation speeds of the first pressurization pump 88, the second pressurization pump 90, and the tank circulation pump 94, the controller 150 It may be configured to extend the first predetermined time in S14 of FIGS. 7 and 9 . As a result, when it is subsequently detected that the water level of the tank 52 falls below the boundary water level and the water level of the tank 52 is raised (if YES in S8), the time for raising the water level of the tank 52 (S14 is repeatedly executed time) is extended.

In the water heater 2 described above, the stop condition for stopping the microbubble generating operation is that the operating time of the microbubble generating operation has reached the set time. In another embodiment, the stopping condition may not be that the operation time of the microbubble generation operation has reached the set time. For example, the stop condition may be an instruction by the user via the remote control 154 to end the microbubble generation operation.

The length of the water level electrode 54 in the water heater 2 may be changed as appropriate. That is, the boundary water level in the water heater 2 may be changed as appropriate.

First predetermined time, second predetermined time, third predetermined time, upper limit suction time, lower limit suction time, correction values of rotation speeds of first pressurization pump 88 and second pressurization pump 90 in the water heater 2, The correction value for the number of rotations of the tank circulation pump 94 and the set time for stopping the microbubble operation may be changed as appropriate.

(correspondence relationship)
As described above, in one or more embodiments, the water heater 2 (an example of a microbubble generator) includes a tank 52 that pressurizes and dissolves air (an example of a gas) in water (an example of a liquid), A tank return path 74 (an example of a tank supply path) that supplies water to the tank 52 , a first pressurization pump 88 and a second pressurization pump 90 (an example of pressurization pumps) provided in the tank return path 74 , and the tank 52 A tank forward passage 64 for discharging water in which air is pressurized and dissolved from the bathtub 130 (an example of a liquid tank), a first bathtub water passage 62, a bathtub adapter 132 (an example of a tank discharge passage), and the bathtub adapter 132. A microbubble generating nozzle 142 for generating microbubbles by decompressing water in which air is pressurized and dissolved, a tank forward passage 64, a first bathtub water passage 62, and a bathtub adapter 132 are provided separately. A tank circulation path 92 that sends water from an outflow port 92a connected to the tank 52 to a water supply port 74a (an example of an inflow port) connected to the tank 52, a tank circulation pump 94 provided in the tank circulation path 92, and a tank circulation path 92, a water level electrode 54 (an example of a liquid level electrode) capable of detecting whether the water level in the tank 52 is equal to or higher than a boundary water level (an example of a predetermined liquid level), and a control device 150. and have. The gas introduction mechanism 96 includes a venturi tube 102 (an example of a decompression unit) through which water is decompressed, a gas introduction port 104a through which air is introduced by the negative pressure of the water in the venturi tube 102, and the gas introduction port 104a. and a gas introduction valve 106 . The control device 150 drives the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 to pressurize and supply water from the tank return path 74 to the tank 52 , and from the tank 52 to the tank outward path 64 and the first bathtub water path 62 . , air-dissolved water is supplied to the bathtub 130 via the bathtub adapter 132 to generate microbubbles. The controller 150 drives the tank circulation pump 94 to circulate the water in the tank 52 through the tank circulation path 92 , thereby supplying the air introduced from the gas inlet 104 a to the tank 52 and outputting it from the water level electrode 54 . The opening/closing operation of the gas introduction valve 106 is controlled based on the presence or absence of an ON signal (an example of information indicating whether or not the liquid level in the tank detected by the liquid level electrode is equal to or higher than a predetermined liquid level).

In one or more embodiments, the water heater 2 (an example of a microbubble generator) includes a tank 52 that pressurizes and dissolves air (an example of a gas) in water (an example of a liquid), and water in the tank 52. A tank return path 74 (an example of a tank supply path) for supply, a first pressurization pump 88 and a second pressurization pump 90 (an example of pressurization pumps) provided in the tank return path 74, and a tank 52 to a bathtub 130 (liquid (example of a tank) is provided in a tank forward passage 64 for discharging water pressurized and dissolved, a first bathtub water passage 62, a bathtub adapter 132 (an example of a tank discharge passage), and a bathtub adapter 132. The microbubble generating nozzle 142 for depressurizing the pressure-dissolved water to generate microbubbles, the tank forward passage 64, the first bathtub water passage 62, and the bathtub adapter 132 are provided separately, and are connected to the tank 52. A tank circulation path 92 that sends water from an outlet 92a to a water supply port 74a (an example of an inflow port) connected to the tank 52; a tank circulation pump 94 provided in the tank circulation path 92; A gas introduction mechanism 96, a single water level electrode 54 (example of a liquid level electrode) capable of detecting whether the water level in the tank 52 is equal to or higher than a boundary water level (example of a predetermined liquid level), a control device 150, It has The gas introduction mechanism 96 includes a venturi tube 102 (an example of a decompression unit) through which water is decompressed, a gas introduction port 104a through which air is introduced by the negative pressure of the water in the venturi tube 102, and the gas introduction port 104a. and a gas introduction valve 106 . The control device 150 drives the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 to pressurize and supply water from the tank return path 74 to the tank 52 , and from the tank 52 to the tank outward path 64 and the first bathtub water path 62 . , air-dissolved water is supplied to the bathtub 130 via the bathtub adapter 132 to generate microbubbles. The control device 150 drives the tank circulation pump 94 to circulate the water in the tank 52 through the tank circulation path 92, thereby supplying the tank 52 with the air introduced from the gas inlet 104a. control the opening/closing operation of the gas introduction valve 106 based on the presence or absence of an ON signal output from the .

According to the above configuration, the control device 150 is configured to control the opening/closing operation of the gas introduction valve 106 based on the presence or absence of the ON signal output from one water level electrode 54 . Therefore, it is possible to reduce the amount of information regarding the water level of the tank 52 and ensure the speed of determination processing regarding opening and closing of the gas introduction valve 106 .

In one or more embodiments, the controller 150 detected by the water level electrode 54 that the water level in the tank 52 was below the boundary water level with the gas introduction valve 106 open during execution of the microbubble generation operation. In this case, the gas introduction valve 106 is closed, the gas introduction valve 106 is kept closed until the first predetermined time elapses after the gas introduction valve 106 is closed, and the gas is introduced after the first predetermined time elapses. Open inlet valve 106 .

In the water heater 2 , the water level electrode 54 may become slimy due to water droplets scattered from the water surface of the tank 52 adhering to the water level electrode 54 . If the water level electrode 54 becomes slimy, the water level in the tank 52 may be erroneously detected. For example, the water heater 2 has a lower water level electrode and an upper water level electrode, and the control device 150 controls opening and closing operations of the gas introduction valve 106 so that the water level in the tank 52 changes between the lower water level and the upper water level. When performing control, the upper water level electrode is substantially not submerged in water. For this reason, the generation of slime cannot be suppressed in the upper water level electrode, and the water level in the tank 52 may be erroneously detected. According to the above configuration, by frequently immersing the water level electrode 54 in water during execution of the microbubble generating operation, it is possible to suppress the generation of slime in the water level electrode 54 . Therefore, erroneous detection of the water level of the tank 52 can be suppressed.

In one or more embodiments, the controller 150 opens the closed gas introduction valve 106 during microbubble generation operation, and then detects that the water level in the tank 52 is below the boundary water level. 54 to identify the elapsed time until the gas introduction valve 106 is closed as the intake time. When the intake time exceeds the upper limit intake time, the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 are driven thereafter The rotational speeds of the first pressurization pump 88 and the second pressurization pump 90 are reduced.

If the intake time is too long, it is assumed that too much water is supplied to the tank 52 or too little air is introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 . Also, the higher the rotational speeds of the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90, the greater the amount of water supplied to the tank 52. The lower the , the less water is supplied to the tank 52 . According to the above configuration, when the intake time exceeds the upper limit intake time, that is, when the intake time is too long, by reducing the rotation speeds of the first pressurization pump 88 and the second pressurization pump 90, the tank By reducing the amount of water supplied to 52, the intake time can be shortened.

In one or more embodiments, the controller 150 opens the closed gas introduction valve 106 during microbubble generation operation, and then detects that the water level in the tank 52 is below the boundary water level. 54 to identify the elapsed time until the gas introduction valve 106 is closed as the inspiratory time. The rotational speeds of the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 are increased.

If the intake time is too short, it is assumed that too little water is supplied to the tank 52 or too much air is introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 . According to the above configuration, when the intake time is less than the lower limit intake time, that is, when the intake time is too short, by increasing the rotation speeds of the first pressurization pump 88 and the second pressurization pump 90, the tank The amount of water supplied to 52 can be increased to extend the inspiratory time.

In one or more embodiments, the controller 150 opens the closed gas introduction valve 106 during microbubble generation operation, and then detects that the water level in the tank 52 is below the boundary water level. 54 to specify the elapsed time until the gas introduction valve 106 is closed as the intake time, and when the intake time exceeds the upper limit intake time, the tank circulation pump 94 is driven with the gas introduction valve 106 open thereafter. The number of revolutions of the tank circulation pump 94 is increased.

If the intake time is too long, it is assumed that too much water is supplied to the tank 52 or too little air is introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 . Further, when the gas introduction valve 106 is open, the higher the rotation speed of the tank circulation pump 94, the greater the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96, and the lower the rotation speed of the tank circulation pump 94, the more the gas introduction mechanism The amount of air introduced at 96 is reduced. According to the above configuration, when the intake time exceeds the upper limit intake time, that is, when the intake time is too long, the number of revolutions of the tank circulation pump 94 is increased to reduce the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96. It is possible to increase the volume and shorten the inspiratory time.

In one or more embodiments, the controller 150 opens the closed gas introduction valve 106 during microbubble generation operation, and then detects that the water level in the tank 52 is below the boundary water level. 54 to specify the elapsed time until the gas introduction valve 106 is closed as the intake time, and when the intake time is less than the lower limit intake time, the tank circulation pump 94 is driven with the gas introduction valve 106 open thereafter. The number of revolutions of the tank circulation pump 94 is reduced when

If the intake time is too short, it is assumed that too little water is supplied to the tank 52 or too much air is introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 . According to the above configuration, when the intake time is less than the lower limit intake time, that is, when the intake time is too short, the number of revolutions of the tank circulation pump 94 is reduced to reduce the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96. It is possible to reduce the amount and extend the inspiratory time.

In one or more embodiments, the controller 150 can determine whether a stop condition is met to stop the microbubble generation operation during execution of the microbubble generation operation, and if the stop condition is met. stop processing for stopping the microbubble generation operation. When the stop process is executed, the control device 150 opens the gas introduction valve 106 while driving the first pressure pump 88, the second pressure pump 90, and the tank circulation pump 94, and the gas introduction valve 106 is opened. state, when the water level electrode 54 detects that the water level in the tank 52 is lower than the boundary water level, the gas introduction valve 106 is closed, and the gas introduction valve 106 is closed for a time longer than the first predetermined time. The gas introduction valve 106 is kept closed until the second predetermined time elapses, and the first pressurizing pump 88, the second pressurizing pump 90 and the tank circulation pump 94 are stopped after the elapse of the second predetermined time. to stop the microbubble generation operation.

According to the above configuration, the microbubble generating operation can be stopped while the water level electrode 54 is immersed in water. As a result, the water level electrode 54 can be prevented from becoming slimy, and erroneous detection of the water level of the tank 52 can be suppressed. Further, according to the above configuration, when the microbubble generating operation is stopped, the water level electrode 54 is immersed in water up to a portion above the portion immersed in water during normal operation. Therefore, the generation of slime in the water level electrode 54 can be suppressed more appropriately.

In one or more embodiments, the controller 150 detects by the water level electrode 54 that the water level in the tank 52 is above the boundary water level with the gas introduction valve 106 closed during microbubble generation operation. In this case, the gas introduction valve 106 is opened, the gas introduction valve 106 is kept open until the third predetermined time elapses after the gas introduction valve 106 is opened, and after the third predetermined time elapses, Close the gas introduction valve 106 .

For example, the water heater 2 has a lower water level electrode and an upper water level electrode, and the control device 150 controls opening and closing operations of the gas introduction valve 106 so that the water level in the tank 52 changes between the lower water level and the upper water level. When performing control, the length of the lower water level electrode must be relatively long. In this case, the weight of the entire water heater 2 may be increased. According to the above configuration, the length of the water level electrode 54 can be made relatively short. Therefore, the weight of the entire water heater 2 can be reduced.

In one or more embodiments, the liquid is water. The liquid bath is the bathtub 130 that the user uses for bathing.

According to the above configuration, in the water heater 2 that generates microbubbles in the water of the bathtub 130 used by the user for bathing, the amount of information related to the water level of the tank 52 is reduced, and the determination process related to opening and closing of the gas introduction valve 106 is reduced. promptness can be ensured.

Although the embodiments have been described in detail above, these are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. The technology described in the claims includes various modifications and changes of the specific examples illustrated above. The technical elements described in this specification or in the drawings exhibit technical usefulness alone or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations described in the claims as of the filing. In addition, the techniques exemplified in this specification or drawings can simultaneously achieve a plurality of purposes, and achieving one of them has technical utility in itself.

2: Water heater 10 : Heat source unit 12 : First heat source device 14 : Second heat source device 16 : Water supply path 18 : Hot water outlet path 18 a : Hot water outlet temperature thermistor 20 : Bypass path 22 : Bypass servo 24 : Hot water pour path 26 : Valve 28 : water quantity sensor 30 : outward circulation path 30a : outward circulation path thermistor 32 : return path 32a : return circulation thermistor 34 : bathtub circulation pump 36 : water flow switch 50 : air pressure dissolving unit 52 : tank 54 : water level electrode 60 : heat source return path 62 : 1st bathtub water passage 64 : tank outward passage 66 : communication passage 68 : heat source outward passage 70 : second bathtub passage 74 : tank return passage 74 a : water supply port 80 : first three-way valve 82 : second three-way valve 84 : check valve 86 : tank Water supply valve 88: first pressure pump 90: second pressure pump 92: tank circulation path 92a: outflow port 94: tank circulation pump 96: gas introduction mechanism 98: water inlet pipe 100: water outlet pipe 102: venturi pipe 104: gas Introduction path 104a : Gas introduction port 106 : Gas introduction valve 130 : Bathtub 130a : Wall portion 132 : Bathtub adapter 132a : Front surface 132b : Bottom surface 134a : First discharge port 134b : First suction port 134c : Second suction port 134d : Third 2 discharge port 136: first water channel 136a: first discharge channel 136b: first suction channel 138: second water channel 138a: second discharge channel 138b: second suction channels 140a, 140b, 140c, 140d: non-return portion 142: Microbubble generating nozzle 150 : Control device 152 : Memory 154 : Remote control 200 : Water supply source 250 : Callan

Claims (10)

a tank for pressurizing and dissolving a gas in a liquid;
a tank supply path for supplying the liquid to the tank;
a pressurizing pump provided in the tank supply channel;
a tank discharge path for discharging the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved from the tank to the liquid tank;
a microbubble generating nozzle provided in the tank discharge passage for generating microbubbles by depressurizing the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved;
a tank circulation path provided separately from the tank discharge path for sending the liquid from an outlet connected to the tank to an inlet connected to the tank;
a tank circulation pump provided in the tank circulation path;
a gas introduction mechanism provided in the tank circulation path;
a liquid level electrode capable of detecting whether the liquid level in the tank is equal to or higher than a predetermined liquid level;
a control device and
The gas introduction mechanism is
a decompression unit for decompressing and passing the liquid;
a gas introduction port for introducing the gas by the negative pressure of the liquid in the decompression unit;
a gas introduction valve that opens and closes the gas introduction port,
The control device is
The pressure pump is driven to pressurize and supply the liquid from the tank supply passage to the tank, and the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved from the tank to the liquid tank through the tank discharge passage. can be executed to generate microbubbles,
During execution of the fine bubble generation operation,
By driving the tank circulation pump and circulating the liquid in the tank in the tank circulation path, the gas introduced from the gas inlet is supplied to the tank,
A micro-bubble generator for controlling the opening/closing operation of the gas introduction valve based on information indicating whether or not the liquid level in the tank detected by the liquid level electrode is equal to or higher than a predetermined liquid level. The control device is
During execution of the fine bubble generation operation,
closing the gas introduction valve when the liquid level electrode detects that the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level while the gas introduction valve is open;
maintaining the closed state of the gas introduction valve until a first predetermined time elapses after the gas introduction valve is closed;
2. The microbubble generator according to claim 1, wherein said gas introduction valve is opened after said first predetermined time has elapsed. The control device is
During execution of the fine bubble generation operation,
Inspiratory time is the elapsed time from opening the gas introduction valve in the closed state to closing the gas introduction valve upon detection by the liquid level electrode that the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level. identified as
3. The microbubble generator according to claim 2, wherein when said intake time exceeds the upper limit intake time, the number of revolutions of said pressurizing pump when said pressurizing pump is driven after that is reduced. The control device is
During execution of the fine bubble generation operation,
Inspiratory time is the elapsed time from opening the gas introduction valve in the closed state to closing the gas introduction valve upon detection by the liquid level electrode that the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level. identified as
4. The fine bubble generator according to claim 2 or 3, wherein when said intake time falls below the lower limit intake time, said rotation speed of said pressurizing pump when driving said pressurizing pump is increased thereafter. The control device is
During execution of the fine bubble generation operation,
Inspiratory time is the elapsed time from opening the gas introduction valve in the closed state to closing the gas introduction valve upon detection by the liquid level electrode that the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level. identified as
5. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein when the intake time exceeds the upper limit intake time, the rotation speed of the tank circulation pump is increased when the tank circulation pump is driven with the gas introduction valve open. or one item of microbubble generator. The control device is
During execution of the fine bubble generation operation,
Inspiratory time is the elapsed time from opening the gas introduction valve in the closed state to closing the gas introduction valve upon detection by the liquid level electrode that the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level. identified as
6. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein, when the intake time falls below the lower limit intake time, the rotation speed of the tank circulation pump is reduced when the tank circulation pump is driven with the gas introduction valve open. The microbubble generator according to any one of the items. The control device is
During execution of the fine bubble generation operation,
It is possible to determine whether a stop condition for stopping the fine bubble generation operation is satisfied,
When the stop condition is satisfied, executing stop processing for stopping the microbubble generation operation;
When the stop processing is executed,
opening the gas introduction valve with the pressure pump and the tank circulation pump being driven;
closing the gas introduction valve when the liquid level electrode detects that the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level while the gas introduction valve is open;
maintaining the closed state of the gas introduction valve until a second predetermined time longer than the first predetermined time elapses after the gas introduction valve is closed;
7. The microbubble generating device according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the pressurizing pump and the tank circulation pump are stopped to stop the microbubble generating operation after the second predetermined time has elapsed. The control device is
During execution of the fine bubble generation operation,
opening the gas introduction valve when the liquid level electrode detects that the liquid level in the tank is equal to or higher than the predetermined liquid level while the gas introduction valve is closed;
maintaining the open state of the gas introduction valve until a third predetermined time elapses after the gas introduction valve is opened;
2. The microbubble generator according to claim 1, wherein said gas introduction valve is closed after said third predetermined time has elapsed. a tank for pressurizing and dissolving a gas in a liquid;
a tank supply path for supplying the liquid to the tank;
a pressurizing pump provided in the tank supply channel;
a tank discharge path for discharging the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved from the tank to the liquid tank;
a microbubble generating nozzle provided in the tank discharge passage for generating microbubbles by depressurizing the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved;
a tank circulation path provided separately from the tank discharge path for sending the liquid from an outlet connected to the tank to an inlet connected to the tank;
a tank circulation pump provided in the tank circulation path;
a gas introduction mechanism provided in the tank circulation path;
a single liquid level electrode capable of detecting whether the liquid level in the tank is equal to or higher than a predetermined liquid level;
Equipped with a control device,
The gas introduction mechanism is
a decompression unit for decompressing and passing the liquid;
a gas introduction port for introducing the gas by the negative pressure of the liquid in the decompression unit;
a gas introduction valve that opens and closes the gas introduction port,
The control device is
The pressure pump is driven to pressurize and supply the liquid from the tank supply passage to the tank, and the liquid in which the gas is pressure-dissolved from the tank through the tank discharge passage to the liquid tank. can be executed to generate microbubbles,
During execution of the fine bubble generation operation,
By driving the tank circulation pump and circulating the liquid in the tank in the tank circulation path, the gas introduced from the gas inlet is supplied to the tank,
A micro-bubble generator for controlling the opening/closing operation of the gas introduction valve based on information as to whether or not the liquid level in the tank detected by the single liquid level electrode is equal to or higher than a predetermined liquid level. the liquid is water,
10. The microbubble generator according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the liquid bath is a bathtub used by a user for bathing.