JP3636164B2

JP3636164B2 - Electric water heater

Info

Publication number: JP3636164B2
Application number: JP2002135146A
Authority: JP
Inventors: 弘一細井; 泰史森本; 直司丹野; 豊晃竹下
Original assignee: Panasonic Corp; Matsushita Electric Industrial Co Ltd
Current assignee: Panasonic Corp; Panasonic Holdings Corp
Priority date: 2002-05-10
Filing date: 2002-05-10
Publication date: 2005-04-06
Anticipated expiration: 2022-05-10
Also published as: JP2003325346A

Description

【０００１】
【発明の属する技術分野】
本発明は、液体を加熱・保温する容器と着脱式の液体を貯水する貯水タンクを有する電気湯沸かし器の構成に関するものである。
【０００２】
【従来の技術】
従来のこの種の電気湯沸かし器の構成を図１３において説明する。１は電気湯沸かし器の外郭を構成する本体である。２は液体３を貯める容器、２ａは容器２の満水位置でこの位置まで液体３を入れることができる。４は容器２の底面に配設された加熱手段、５は加熱手段等の制御を行う制御部、６は容器２の上方に位置し覆設する蓋体で、蒸気口７を上部に設け、容器２内からの蒸気を外部へと導いている。８は本体１内部の容器２の横に着脱自在に設けた貯水タンク、８ａは貯水タンクの満水位置でこの位置まで液体３を入れることができる。９は貯水タンク８下部に設けられた筒状の給水ケース、１０は貯水タンク８と給水ケース９との間に狭着され、貯水タンク８からの液体の漏れを防止するパッキン、１１は貯水タンク８と給水ケース９を締結する締結手段である。１２は容器２からの液体３を外部へ汲み出すポンプで、導出路１３、導出口１４を通って導出される。１５は水管の周りに設けられた水位センサーでフォトトランジスタ等で容器２内の液体３がどこまで入っているかを検知している。
【０００３】
１６は貯水タンク８の液体３を容器２内へと汲み上げるための給水モータで、本体１に固定され軸の先端には磁石１７が固定されている。１８は給水ケース９の中に収納された磁石式のインペラで、磁石１７と対向した位置に配設されている。給水の動作としては、給水モータ１６が制御部５の制御により、駆動すると磁石１７も同様に回転する。すると、磁石１７と対向した位置に配設された磁石式のインペラ１８は、磁気結合により同様に回転する。
【０００４】
すなわち、給水モータ１６と磁石１７とがインペラ１８の駆動手段に相当し、これらインペラと駆動手段とで給水ポンプを構成している。この時インペラ１８の羽根により貯水タンク８内の液体３は汲み上げられ、揚水路出口１９を通って容器２内へと給水される。給水、また給水の停止を行うタイミングは、水位センサー１５からの情報を制御部５が判断し、給水モータ１６の駆動を制御している。
【０００５】
この電気湯沸かし器の使い勝手としては、容器２内の液体３が少なくなり、貯水タンク８の液体３が、容器２内に給水されて、貯水タンク８の水が少なくなったり、なくなったりした場合に貯水タンク８だけを本体１より取り出し、給水し、再び本体１にセットするということで、重たい本体１を持つことなく、給水できるという効果がある。
【０００６】
【発明が解決しようとする課題】
しかしながら、前記従来の構成では、着脱する貯水タンク８と給水ケース９は別体であるため、パッキン１０を介する必要があるし、また、パッキン１０を介していても締結手段１１による締結の仕方によっては、貯水タンク８と給水ケース９との間から水が漏れたりする。また、磁石１７と磁石式のインペラ１８との軸心が大きくずれると脱調をおこし液体３が汲み上げられなくなるため、軸心を一致させて磁気結合により磁石式のインペラ１８を回転させ液体３を汲み上げる必要があるが、磁石１７と磁石式のインペラ１８の軸心を一致させるための部品数が、本体１、貯水タンク８、給水ケース９と３部品となり、軸心を一致させるための整合が取りにくいし、さらに、部品点数が多いため、組立性が悪く、コストがかかるという問題を有していた。
【０００７】
本発明は、上記従来の課題を解決するもので、貯水タンクから容器への給水を行う給水ポンプの構成において、軸心を一致させるための整合性が取りやすく、脱調が起こりにくい給水性能が実現でき、かつ、部品点数を削減した信頼性の高い電気湯沸かし器を提供することを目的とする。
【０００８】
【課題を解決するための手段】
前記従来の課題を解決するために、本発明は、インペラを収納するケーシングを貯水タンクに一体に設ける構成とした。この構成により、給水モータとインペラの軸心とを一致させるための部品点数が少なくすることができる。
【０００９】
【発明の実施の形態】
請求項１に記載の発明は、本体内に設けられ液体を加熱する容器と、前記容器に供給する液体を貯水する貯水タンクとを備え、前記貯水タンクを前記本体に着脱自在とするとともに、前記貯水タンクの外郭と一体にインペラを収納するケーシングを設け、前記本体に取付けた給水モータに同期して前記インペラを前記貯水タンク内で回転させ前記液体を送水してなることにより、貯水タンクの外郭と一体にインペラを収納するケーシングを設けているので、給水モータとインペラの軸心とを一致させるための部品点数が少なくすることができる。したがって、脱調が起こりにくく、安定した給水性能がえられる。また、貯水タンクからの水漏れがなく、また給水ポンプの脱調もない給水性能に優れた信頼性の高い機器を提供することができる。
【００１０】
さらに、貯水タンクの内部を貯水部と揚水経路に分割するタンクカバーを設けるとともに、インペラを前記揚水経路に設け、前記揚水路で揚水された液体を前記容器の側面に接続された給水路に給水してなることにより、給水路への給水部分を容器の液面（満水位）より上部に位置させれば常に容器内の液面の上方から液体を供給することができ逆流することがない。
【００１１】
また、タンクカバーにより貯水タンクの内部を貯水部と揚水経路に分割する構成であるので、揚水路を簡素な構成とすることができる。また、タンクカバーを着脱できるようにすれば容器内のクリーニングが容易になる。
【００１２】
請求項２に記載の発明は、特に、貯水タンクに設けられ給水路に前記貯水タンク内の液体を注入する注入口と、前記貯水タンク内に設けられ前記注入口に液体を導く給水受けとを有し、前記貯水タンクの液体は揚水経路により揚水され前記給水受けに導かれるとともに、前記貯水タンクを前記本体に装着すると前記給水路に前記注入口が臨むように構成したことにより、給水受けに過度に多くの液体が貯留されると溢水して貯水タンクの貯水部に戻るので、溢水する部分の高さ以上湯沸かし容器内に給水される恐れがなく、湯沸かし容器内の高温の液体が外部に吐出される恐れがない。
【００１３】
請求項３に記載の発明は、特に、揚水経路をタンクカバーと前記貯水タンクの内壁とで形成する構成としたことにより、部品点数を削減でき、組立て工数を低減できるとともに、貯水タンク内の清掃をし易くすることができる。
【００１４】
請求項４に記載の発明は、特に、本体側面には凸あるいは凹形状、貯水タンク側面には凹あるいは凸形状の嵌合形状Ａと、給水モータ上方の前記本体とインペラ下方の前記貯水タンクには嵌合形状Ｂとを設け、前記嵌合形状Ｂの隙間寸法は前記嵌合形状Ａの隙間寸法より小さくしたことにより給水モータとインペラの軸心を合わせやすくできる給水性能に優れ、信頼性をたかめることができる。
【００１５】
請求項５に記載の発明は、特に、本体と貯水タンクの嵌合において、本体の給水モータ部の外側に設けた外周リブと貯水タンクのケーシングとの嵌合完了時に、本体の使用状態となる構成とすることで、給水モータとインペラが優先的に適正な位置でセットされるため、給水ポンプの脱調がなく、給水性能に優れ、信頼性をたかめることができる。
【００１６】
請求項６に記載の発明は、特に、本体と貯水タンクの嵌合において、本体の給水モータ部外側に設けた外周リブと貯水タンクのケーシングとの嵌合が完了時に、前記貯水タンクもしくは前記本体に設けたロック機構が前記本体もしくは前記貯水タンクに働き、前記本体もしくは前記貯水タンクを固定する構成とすることで、給水モータとインペラが優先的に適正な位置でセットされ、かつ機械的に固定されるため、より給水ポンプの脱調がなく、給水性能に優れ、信頼性をたかめることができる。
【００１７】
請求項７に記載の発明は、特に、貯水タンクのタンク下面は、ケーシングのケーシング下面より下方に位置し、かつ本体の下面と同高さもしくは上方に位置する構成とすることで、給水モータとインペラが優先で適正な位置でセットされるため、給水ポンプの脱調がなく、給水性能に優れ、信頼性を高めると共に、本体と貯水タンクの下面のラインが揃ったデザイン性のよいものにすることができる。
【００１８】
請求項８に記載の発明は、特に、貯水タンクの貯水部底面はケーシング下面に向かう下方向の傾斜を有する構成とすることで、貯水タンクの液体を全てケーシング内に入れることがきるため、無駄な液体を貯めることのない清潔で、効率的のよいものにすることができる。
【００１９】
請求項９に記載の発明は、特に、給水モータを本体側面に設け、前記給水モータに対向してインペラを設け、前記給水モータの回転軸と前記インペラの回転軸とが略水平になるように構成とすることで、貯水タンクの下面ギリギリまで、有効貯水部に使用できる効率的で、かつコンパクトにすることができる。
【００２０】
請求項１０に記載の発明は、特に、本体と貯水タンクの嵌合において、前記本体の給水モータの軸心と前記貯水タンクのインペラの軸心が一致した際に、本体の使用状態となる構成とすることで、給水モータとインペラが優先で適正な位置でセットされるため、給水ポンプの脱調がなく、給水性能に優れ、信頼性を高めることができると共に、コンパクトにできる。
【００２１】
請求項１１に記載の発明は、特に、本体側面には凸あるいは凹形状、貯水タンク側面には凹あるいは凸形状の嵌合形状Ａと、給水モータ側面の前記本体とインペラ側面の前記貯水タンクには両者の軸心が一致する嵌合形状Ｂとを設け、嵌合形状Ｂの隙間寸法は嵌合形状Ａの隙間寸法より小さくする構成とすることで、給水モータとインペラの軸心が合わせやすくできるため、給水性能に優れ、信頼性を高めることができると共に、コンパクトにできる。
【００２２】
請求項１２に記載の発明は、特に、給水モータとインペラの軸心が一致した際、貯水タンクもしくは本体に設けられたロック機構が前記本体もしくは前記貯水タンクに働き、前記本体と前記貯水タンクを固定する構成とすることで、給水モータとインペラが優先で適正な位置でセットされ、かつ機械的に固定されるため、より給水ポンプの脱調がなく、給水性能に優れ、信頼性の高いものにすることができる。
【００２３】
【実施例】
以下本発明の実施例について、図面を参照にしながら説明する。
【００２４】
（実施例１）
図１は本発明の第１の実施例における電気湯沸かし器の断面図である。なお、実施例と同じ構成には同じ符号を付している。
【００２５】
図１において、１は電気湯沸かし器の外郭を構成する本体である。２は液体３を貯める容器、２ａは容器２の満水位置でこの位置まで液体３を入れることができる。４は容器２の底面に配設された加熱手段、５は加熱手段等の制御を行う制御部、６は容器２の上方に位置し覆設する蓋体で、蒸気口７を上部に設け、容器２内からの蒸気を外部へと導いている。１２は容器２からの液体３を外部へと汲み出すポンプで、導出路１３、導出口１４を通って液体を外部に導出する。１５は水管の周りに設けた水位センサーでフォトトランジスタ等で容器２内の液体３がどこまで入っているかを検知している。
【００２６】
８は本体１の側面に着脱自在に保持された貯水タンク、８ａは貯水タンクの満水位置でこの位置まで液体３を入れることができる。２０は貯水タンク８の下部に位置し、略Ｕ字状のケーシングで貯水タンク８と一体である。２１は貯水タンク８からの液体３を容器２内に導く給水路、２２は給水路２１から容器２につながる給水口、１６は貯水タンク８の液体３を容器２内へと汲み上げるための給水モータで、本体１に固定され軸の先端には磁石１７を固定している。１８はケーシング２０内に収納された磁石式のインペラで、磁石１７と対向した位置に配設している。給水の動作としては、給水モータ１６が制御部５の制御により、駆動すると磁石１７も同様に回転する。すると、磁石１７と対向した位置に配設された磁石式のインペラ１８は、磁気結合により同様に回転する。すなわち、給水モータ１６と磁石１７とがインペラ１８の駆動手段に相当し、これらインペラと駆動手段とで給水ポンプを構成している。２３はケーシング２０の上で磁石式のインペラ１８を覆設するタンクカバーで、貯水タンク８からの揚水路を貯水タンク８の内壁とともに形成している。
【００２７】
この電気湯沸かし器の使い勝手としては、容器２内の液体３が少なくなり、貯水タンク８の液体３が、容器２内に給水されて、貯水タンク８の水が少なくなったり、なくなったりした場合に貯水タンク８だけを本体１より取り外して給水し、再び本体１にセットするということで、重たい本体１を持つことなく、給水できるという効果がある。
【００２８】
以上のように構成された電気湯沸かし器について、以下その動作作用について説明する。
【００２９】
本体１に貯水タンク８をセットし、貯水タンク８から容器２へ給水する場合を説明する。給水の動作としては、給水モータ１６が制御部５の制御により、駆動すると磁石１７も同様に回転する。すると、磁石１７と対向した位置に配設された磁石式のインペラ１８は磁気結合により同様に回転する。この時、インペラ１８の羽根により貯水タンク８内の液体３はケーシング２０、タンクカバー２３で構成された揚水路２４を通って汲み上げられて、揚水路出口２５を通って給水受け２６上に落とされる。そして、給水路２１、注入口２７を通って、容器２内に給水される。給水、また給水の停止を行うタイミングは、水位センサー１５からの情報を制御部５が判断し、給水モータ１６の駆動を制御している。このとき、磁石１７と磁石式インペラ１８は磁気結合で動作するため、軸心を一致させ、かつ、お互いある一定の距離を保つようにしておかないと、脱調してうまく動作せず、給水ができない。
【００３０】
しかるに、本実施例では、貯水タンク８を本体１に着脱自在とするとともに、貯水タンク８の外郭と一体にインペラ１８を収納するケーシング２０を設け、本体１に取付けた給水モータ１６に同期してインペラ１８を貯水タンク８内で回転させ液体３を送水してなることにより、貯水タンク８とケーシング２０は一体部品であるため、磁石１７と磁石式のインペラ１８の軸心を一致のための整合が貯水タンク８と本体１との２部品だけで行えるので、軸心を合わせやすくできる。また、一体部品であるため、貯水タンク８とケーシング２０との間に隙間がなく液体が漏れることもない。さらに、部品点数を低減することができる。
【００３１】
また、揚水経路２４で揚水された液体３を容器２の側面に一端が接続された給水路２１に給水してなる構成としているので、給水路２１への給水部分を容器２の液面（満水位）より上部に位置させれば常に容器２内の液面より高い位置から液体を供給することができ逆流することがない。
【００３２】
また、貯水タンク８の内部を貯水部（液体３の貯水される部分）と揚水経路２４に分割するタンクカバー２３を設けるとともに、インペラ１８を揚水経路２４内に設けて、タンクカバー２３を着脱方式にしておけば、タンクカバー２３及び磁石式のインペラ１８を外して、貯水タンク８内を洗うこともできる。
【００３３】
また、貯水タンク８に設けられ給水路２１に貯水タンク８内の液体３を注入する注入口２７と、貯水タンク８内に設けられ注入口２７に液体３を導く給水受け２６とを有し、貯水タンク８の液体３は揚水経路２４により揚水され給水受け２６に導かれるとともに、貯水タンク８を本体１に装着すると給水路２１に注入口２７が臨むように構成されることにより、給水受けに過度に多くの液体が貯留されると溢水して貯水タンクの貯水部に戻るので、溢水する部分の高さ以上湯沸かし容器内に給水される恐れがなく、湯沸かし容器内の高温の液体が外部に吐出される恐れがない。
【００３４】
よって、水漏れ及び脱調のない信頼性の高い機器、部品点数の少ない機器、清掃性に優れた機器を提供できる。
【００３５】
なお、本実施例では、磁気結合によるカップリングでインペラを回転させる方式で具体的に説明したが、それ以外の方式、例えば給水モータからの軸を直接インペラにギア等でかみ合わせることで、軸の出口にはパッキン等でシールを行う必要はあるが、給水モータとインペラを同期させるとか、機械的に両者をつなげることで、インペラを回転させても同様の効果が得られる。
【００３６】
（実施例２）
図２は本発明の第２の実施例における電気湯沸かし器の断面図であり、図３は同電気湯沸かし器の要部平面図を示す。なお、本実施例の基本構成は実施例１と同じなので異なる点を中心に説明する。また、実施例１と同じ機能には同じ符号を付しその説明は省略する。
【００３７】
図２および図３において、２８は本体１の貯水タンク８側の側面に設けた凸形状、２９は貯水タンク８の本体１側の側面に設けられた凹形状で、両者はある隙間Ａをもって嵌合している。これを嵌合形状Ａ３０と記す。３１は本体１の磁石１７上に設けた外周リブで、ケーシング２０とある隙間Ｂをもって嵌合している。これを嵌合形状Ｂ３２と記す。
【００３８】
以下、本実施例の動作、作用を説明する。
【００３９】
貯水タンク８を外した状態から本体１にセットするばあいについて述べる。貯水タンク８を本体１の凸形状２８に凹形状２９を入れるように上から落とし込んでいく。その際、凸形状２８と凹形状２９は嵌合しているため、そのままの関係を保ったまま下方へセットされていく。
【００４０】
そして、最終セット位置へ向かい、磁石１７と磁石式のインペラ１８が近づいてくると、両者の近傍に存在する外周リブ３１とケーシング２０が嵌合されてセットが完了する。ところが、嵌合寸法Ｂは嵌合寸法Ａよりも小さいため、磁石１７と磁石式のインペラ１８との関係が、両者の嵌合の中では一番正確となり、両者の軸心及び距離関係を揃えることができる。
【００４１】
また、これらの関係から、大雑把な嵌合からきっちりした嵌合へとセットできるので、セットの操作性も向上することができる。
【００４２】
よって、より磁石と磁石式インペラの軸心を整合しやすくして、脱調の起こらない給水性能に優れた信頼性の高いものにすることができる。
【００４３】
実施例２では、凸形状２８を給水受け２６の位置に設けているが、本体１の側面前方と後方に設けて挟み込んでも、嵌合できれば、位置、形状にはこだわらず同様の効果が得られる。また、前記に限定されずに、本体１の凸形状は凹形状でも、また貯水タンク８の凹形状は凸形状で構成させても嵌合できればよい。
【００４４】
（実施例３）
図４は本発明の第３の実施例における電気湯沸かし器の断面図である。なお、本実施例の基本構成は実施例１と同じなので異なる点を中心に説明する。また、実施例１と同じ機能には同じ符号を付しその説明は省略する。
【００４５】
図４において、３３は貯水タンク８の最下面であるタンク下面であり、本体１にセット完了時、タンク下面３３は本体１の下面より高い、例えば２ｍｍ高い位置にある。
【００４６】
以下、本実施例の動作、作用を説明する。
【００４７】
貯水タンク８を外した状態からセットする場合について述べる。貯水タンク８は、本体１の凸形状２８に凹形状２９を入れるように、上から落とし込んでいく。その際、凸形状２８と凹形状２９とは嵌合しているため、そのままの関係を保ったまま下方へセットされていく。
【００４８】
そして、最終セット位置へ向かい、磁石１７と磁石式のインペラ１８が近づいてくると、両者の近傍に存在する外周リブ３０とケーシング２０とが嵌合し、セットが完了する。
【００４９】
ところが、嵌合寸法Ｂは嵌合寸法Ａよりも小さいため、磁石１７と磁石式のインペラ１８との関係が、両者の嵌合の中では一番正確となり、両者の軸心及び距離関係を揃えることができる。そして、同時に本体は使用状態、すなわち、湯を出したり、貯水タンクから容器への給水をしたりすることができる状態になる。その上、タンク下面３３は本体１の下面より、２ｍｍ高い位置にあるため（Ｃ＞０）、貯水タンク８をセットする時に、タンク下面３３が床につかえて、磁石１７と磁石式インペラ１８との関係が浮いた状態でセットされることはない。
【００５０】
よって、磁石と磁石式インペラが優先で適正な位置でセットされるため、給水ポンプの脱調がなく、給水性能に優れた信頼性の高い機器を提供できる。
【００５１】
実施例３では、タンク下面と本体下面の距離を２ｍｍとしたが、タンク下面の方が本体の下面より高ければよい。実用的には０から５ｍｍぐらいが適正と考えられる。
【００５２】
（実施例４）
図５は本発明の第４の実施例における電気湯沸かし器の断面図である。なお、本実施例の基本構成は実施例１と同じなので異なる点を中心に説明する。また、実施例１と同じ機能には同じ符号を付しその説明は省略する。
【００５３】
図５において、３４は本体１と貯水タンク８のロック機構を構成するロック支持体、３５はロック支持体３４を摺動させるばねで、貯水タンク８側面に配設された摺動部３６内にロック支持体３５とともに収容している。３７は本体１側面に設けた位置決め部で、セット時にロック支持体３４を挿入する。
【００５４】
以下、本実施例の動作、作用を説明する。
【００５５】
貯水タンク８を外した状態から本体１にセットする場合を説明する。貯水タンク８は、本体１の凸形状２８に凹形状２９を入れるように、上から落とし込んでいく。その際、凸形状２８と凹形状２９は嵌合しているため、そのままの関係を保ったまま下方へセットされていく。
【００５６】
そして、最終セット位置へ向かい、磁石１７と磁石式インペラ１８が近づいてくると、両者の近傍に存在する外周リブ３１とケーシング２０が嵌合してセットが完了する。ほぼそれと同時に、今まで本体１の側面に当てられ摺動部３６内に収められていたロック支持体３４は、本体１の位置決め部３７のところで開口部が生じるため、ばね３５に押されて、位置決め部３７内に先端部が収められる。これで、本体１と貯水タンク８はロック機構により、確実に固定され、磁石１７と磁石式インペラ１８との位置関係は、適切な位置で保持される。
【００５７】
また、貯水タンク８を着脱する際は、ロック支持体３４を貯水タンク８側に引きながら、貯水タンク８を上げていくことで、外すことが容易にできる。
【００５８】
よって、磁石と磁石式インペラが優先で適正な位置でセットされ、かつ確実に機械的に固定されるため、より給水ポンプの脱調がなく、給水性能に優れた信頼性の高い機器を提供できる。
【００５９】
また、ロック機構で本体と貯水タンクを固定できるので、貯水タンクに手がちょっと当たったりとかしても、磁石と磁石式インペラのズレは起こらず、普通に給水を行うことができる。
【００６０】
実施例４では、前述のようなロック機構を示したが、この方式にとらわれず、両者を磁石の吸引力を利用して固定するというような他の方式でも同様の効果が得られる。
【００６１】
また、実施例４の具体的な説明では、貯水タンク側にロック機構を設けた例で説明しているが、これに限定されるものでなく本体側に設けても同様の効果が得られる。
【００６２】
（実施例５）
図６は本発明の第５の実施例における電気湯沸かし器の断面図である。なお、本実施例の基本構成は実施例１と同じなので異なる点を中心に説明する。また、実施例１と同じ機能には同じ符号を付しその説明は省略する。
【００６３】
図６において、３８はケーシング２０のケーシング下面、３３は貯水タンク８のタンク下面である。位置関係は、タンク下面３３はケーシング下面３８より下方に位置し、かつ本体１の下面と同高さあるいは数ｍｍ上に位置している。
【００６４】
以下、本実施例における動作、作用を説明する。
【００６５】
本体１に貯水タンク８をセットする場合を説明する。本体１と貯水タンク８は従来例の図１３のように、本体１の中に貯水タンク８を入れて、外観は本体１しか見えないのではなく、本体１の側面に嵌合させる。つまり両者並んで両方とも見える状態でセットする。
【００６６】
ところが、本実施例の構成は、ケーシング下面３８よりタンク下面３３が下に位置しているため、外観上本体１の下面のラインに揃えることができるため、デザイン的に美しくすることができる。また、ケーシング下面３８とタンク下面３３には空間が設けられるため、本体１を潜り込ませたりして、有効的に部品を配置することもできる。
【００６７】
よって、磁石と磁石式インペラが優先で適正な位置でセットされるため、給水ポンプの脱調がなく、給水性能に優れた信頼性の高い機器を提供し、また本体と貯水タンクの下面のラインが揃ったデザイン性のよい機器を提供できる。
【００６８】
（実施例６）
図７は本発明の第６の実施例における電気湯沸かし器の断面図である。なお、本実施例の基本構成は実施例１と同じなので異なる点を中心に説明する。また、実施例１と同じ機能には同じ符号を付しその説明は省略する。
【００６９】
図７において、３９は貯水タンクの貯水部底面で、ケーシング２０に向かって、下方向の傾斜を設けている。
【００７０】
以下、本実施例における動作、作用を説明する。
【００７１】
本体１に貯水タンク８をセットし、液体３が容器２内に給水されていく場合についてのべる。液体３は、磁石式のインペラ１８の動作により、ケーシング２０、タンクカバー２３を経由して、容器２内へと給水されていく。そして、貯水タンク８内の液体３がなくなりかけてきたとき、貯水部底面３９はケーシング２０に向かって傾斜があるため、重力にしたがい液体３は全て、ケーシング２０内に流れていく。つまり、全ての液体３が容器２内へと給水されることになる。
【００７２】
よって、貯水タンクの液体をほとんど全て容器側に汲み上げることができるので、無駄な液体を貯水タンクに残すこともなく清潔で、効率的である。
【００７３】
（実施例７）
図８は本発明の第７の実施例における電気湯沸かし器の断面図である。なお、本実施例の基本構成は実施例１と同じなので異なる点を中心に説明する。また、実施例１と同じ機能には同じ符号を付しその説明は省略する。
【００７４】
図８において、給水モータ１６および磁石１７を本体の側面に設け、それに対向して磁石式のインペラ１８を貯水タンク８の側面に設けたことを特徴としている。この構成では軸心は略水平方向になる。
【００７５】
以下、本実施例における動作、作用を説明する。
【００７６】
本実施例では、給水モータ１６および磁石１７の軸心が略水平方向に固定されているため、磁石式のインペラ１８を貯水タンク８の最下部にまで配置することができる。そのため、磁石式インペラ１８は水平方向を軸に回転し、液体３をケーシング２０、タンクカバー２３を通り、容器２内へと給水する。ところが、本実施例の構成では、タンク下面３３とケーシング２０の下面との位置関係をほぼ同じとすることができるので、貯水タンクの体積に対する液体を実際に入れられる体積、すなわち、貯水タンク８の貯水量を大幅に増やす事ができる。あるいは、容量が同じならば、貯水タンク８の大きさをコンパクトにできる。
【００７７】
よって、貯水タンクの下面ギリギリまで、有効貯水部に使用できるので、貯水タンクの容量の増大または形状をコンパクトにできる。
【００７８】
また、給水モータを実施例１のように貯水タンクの下に潜り込ませて、略水平方向に固定してもいいし、また奥行方向の向きで略水平方向に支持させても同様の効果が得られる。
【００７９】
そして、インペラの横にあるタンクカバーの孔から下方向にラッパ状の筒を設ければ、さらに貯水タンク内の残水量を減らすことができる。
【００８０】
また、図９に示すように、貯水タンク８を本体１にセットした時、タンク下面３３を本体１の下面より若干高い位置Ｄになるようにする。これにより、タンク下面３３が床につかえて、磁石１７と磁石式インペラ１８との軸心が不一致になるのを防ぐことができる。
【００８１】
よって、磁石と磁石式インペラが優先して適正な位置にセットできるため、給水ポンプの脱調がなく、給水性能に優れたものにすることができる。
【００８２】
なお、タンク下面と本体下面との高さＤの差は、タンク下面の方が本体の下面より高ければよく、実用的には０から５ｍｍぐらいが適正である。
【００８３】
（実施例８）
図１０は本発明の第８の実施例における電気湯沸かし器の断面図であり、図１１は同電気湯沸かし器の要部平面図である。なお、本実施例の基本構成は実施例１と同じなので異なる点を中心に説明する。また、実施例１と同じ機能には同じ符号を付しその説明は省略する。
【００８４】
図１０および図１１において、本体１の貯水タンク８側の側面に設けられた凸形状２８と貯水タンク８の本体１側の側面に設けられた凹形状２９とは、ある隙間Ａをもって嵌合している嵌合形状Ａ３０の状態にある。また、本体１の磁石１７上に設けられた外周リブ３１とケーシング２０の嵌合部４０とはある隙間Ｂをもって嵌合している嵌合形状Ｂ３２の状態にある。
【００８５】
以下、本実施例における動作、作用を説明する。
【００８６】
貯水タンク８を本体１から外した状態からセットする場合、貯水タンク８の凹形状２９を本体１の凸形状２８に入れるように上から落とし込んでいく。そのとき、凸形状２８と凹形状２９は嵌合しているため、そのままの関係を保ったまま下方へセットされていく。そして、最終セット位置へ向かい、磁石１７と磁石式インペラ１８が近づいてくると、両者の近傍に存在する外周リブ３１とケーシング２０の嵌合部４０とが嵌合されてセットは完了する。
【００８７】
ところが、嵌合形状Ｂ３２の嵌合寸法Ｆは嵌合形状Ａ３０の嵌合寸法Ｅよりも小さいため、磁石１７と磁石式のインペラ１８との関係が、両者の嵌合の中では一番正確となり、両者の軸心及び距離関係を揃えることができる。また、これらの関係から、大雑把な嵌合からきっちりした嵌合へとセットできるので、セット性が向上する。
【００８８】
よって、より磁石と磁石式インペラの軸心を合わせやすくして、脱調の起こらない給水性能に優れた信頼性の高い機器を提供できる。
【００８９】
なお、本実施例では、凸形状を給水受けの位置に持ってきているが、これに限定されるものではなく、嵌合できれば、位置、形状にはこだわるものではなく、例えば、本体１の側面前方と後方に設け、挟み込むようにしても同様の効果が得られる。
【００９０】
（実施例９）
図１２は本発明の第９の実施例における電気湯沸かし器の断面図である。なお、本実施例の基本構成は実施例１と同じなので異なる点を中心に説明する。また実施例１と同じ機能には同じ符号を付しその説明は省略する。
【００９１】
図１２において、は本体１と貯水タンク８のロック機構を構成するロック支持体３４とロック支持体３２を摺動させるばね３５とを、貯水タンク８側面に配設した摺動部３６内に収納している。そして、セット時は本体１側面に設けられた位置決め部３７にロック支持体３４を挿入している。
【００９２】
以下、本実施例における動作、作用を説明する。
【００９３】
貯水タンク８を本体１から外した状態からセットする場合、貯水タンク８を本体１の凸形状２８に凹形状２９を入れるようにして上から落とし込んでいく。そのとき、凸形状２８と凹形状２９は嵌合しているため、そのままの関係を保ったまま下方へセットされていく。
【００９４】
そして、最終セット位置へ向かい、磁石１７と磁石式のインペラ１８とが近づいてくると、両者の近傍に存在する外周リブ３１とケーシングの嵌合部４０とが嵌合してセットを完了する。ほぼそれと同時に、今まで本体１の側面に当てられ摺動部３６内に収められていたロック支持体３４は、本体１の位置決め部３７のところで開口部が生じるため、ばね３３に押されて、位置決め部３７内に先端部が収められる。これで、本体１と貯水タンク８はロック機構により確実に固定され、磁石１７と磁石式のインペラ１８との位置関係は、適切な位置で保持される。また、貯水タンク８を着脱する際は、ロック支持体３４を貯水タンク８側に引きながら、貯水タンク８を上げていくことで、外すことが容易にできる。
【００９５】
よって、磁石と磁石式のインペラとが優先的に適正な位置でセットされ、かつ確実に機械的に固定されるため、より給水ポンプの脱調がなく、給水性能に優れたものにすることができる。
【００９６】
また、ロック機構で本体と貯水タンクを固定できるので、貯水タンクに手がちょっと当たったりとかしても、磁石と磁石式インペラのズレは起こらず、普通に給水を行うことができる。
【００９７】
なお、本実施例では、前述のようなロック機構を示したが、この方式にとらわれず、両者を磁石の吸引力を利用して固定するというような他の方式でも同様の効果が得られる。
【００９８】
【発明の効果】
以上のように、本発明によれば、貯水タンクから容器への給水を行う給水ポンプの構成において、軸心を一致させるための整合性が取りやすく、脱調が起こりにくい優秀な給水性能が実現でき、かつ、部品点数を削減した信頼性の高いものにすることができる。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】本発明の実施例１における電気湯沸かし器の断面図
【図２】本発明の実施例２における電気湯沸かし器の断面図
【図３】同電気湯沸かし器の要部平面図
【図４】本発明の実施例３における電気湯沸かし器の断面図
【図５】本発明の実施例４における電気湯沸かし器の断面図
【図６】本発明の実施例５における電気湯沸かし器の断面図
【図７】本発明の実施例６における電気湯沸かし器の断面図
【図８】本発明の実施例７における電気湯沸かし器の断面図
【図９】同電気湯沸かし器の断面図
【図１０】本発明の実施例８における電気湯沸かし器の断面図
【図１１】同電気湯沸かし器の要部平面図
【図１２】本発明の実施例９における電気湯沸かし器の断面図
【図１３】従来の電気湯沸かし器の断面図
【符号の説明】
１本体
２容器
３液体
８貯水タンク
１６給水モータ
１８インペラ
２０ケーシング
２１吸水路
２３タンクカバー
２４揚水経路
２８凸形状
２９凹形状
３０嵌合形状Ａ
３１外周リブ
３２嵌合形状Ｂ
３３タンク下面
３４ロック支持体（ロック機構）
３５ばね（ロック機構）
３８ケーシング下面
３９貯水部底面[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a configuration of an electric water heater having a container for heating and keeping a liquid and a water storage tank for storing a detachable liquid.
[0002]
[Prior art]
The configuration of this type of conventional electric water heater will be described with reference to FIG. Reference numeral 1 denotes a main body constituting the outline of the electric water heater. 2 is a container for storing the liquid 3, 2 a is a full water position of the container 2, and the liquid 3 can be put to this position. 4 is a heating means disposed on the bottom surface of the container 2, 5 is a control unit for controlling the heating means and the like, 6 is a lid body positioned above the container 2, and a steam port 7 is provided at the top, The vapor | steam from the inside of the container 2 is guide | induced to the exterior. A water storage tank 8 is detachably provided beside the container 2 inside the main body 1, and a liquid 3 can be placed up to this position at a water filling position 8 a. 9 is a cylindrical water supply case provided in the lower part of the water storage tank 8, 10 is a packing that is tightly fitted between the water storage tank 8 and the water supply case 9, and 11 is a water storage tank that prevents leakage of liquid from the water storage tank 8. 8 is a fastening means for fastening the water supply case 9 to the water supply case 9. A pump 12 pumps the liquid 3 from the container 2 to the outside, and is led out through the lead-out path 13 and the lead-out port 14. Reference numeral 15 denotes a water level sensor provided around the water pipe, which detects how far the liquid 3 in the container 2 is contained by a phototransistor or the like.
[0003]
Reference numeral 16 denotes a water supply motor for pumping the liquid 3 in the water storage tank 8 into the container 2, and is fixed to the main body 1 and a magnet 17 is fixed to the tip of the shaft. Reference numeral 18 denotes a magnetic impeller housed in the water supply case 9 and is disposed at a position facing the magnet 17. As an operation of supplying water, when the water supply motor 16 is driven by the control of the control unit 5, the magnet 17 is similarly rotated. Then, the magnet-type impeller 18 disposed at a position facing the magnet 17 similarly rotates by magnetic coupling.
[0004]
That is, the water supply motor 16 and the magnet 17 correspond to the drive means for the impeller 18, and the impeller and the drive means constitute a water supply pump. At this time, the liquid 3 in the water storage tank 8 is pumped up by the blades of the impeller 18 and supplied to the container 2 through the pumping channel outlet 19. The control unit 5 determines the timing of water supply and water supply stop by controlling information from the water level sensor 15 and controlling the drive of the water supply motor 16.
[0005]
As a convenience of the electric water heater, the liquid 3 in the container 2 is reduced, and the liquid 3 in the water storage tank 8 is supplied into the container 2 so that the water in the water storage tank 8 is reduced or lost. By taking out only the tank 8 from the main body 1, supplying water, and setting it in the main body 1 again, there is an effect that water can be supplied without having the heavy main body 1.
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the conventional configuration, the water storage tank 8 to be attached and detached and the water supply case 9 are separate, so that it is necessary to pass through the packing 10, and even if the packing 10 is used, depending on the fastening method by the fastening means 11. The water leaks from between the water storage tank 8 and the water supply case 9. Further, when the axial center of the magnet 17 and the magnet type impeller 18 are largely deviated, a step-out occurs and the liquid 3 cannot be pumped. Therefore, the magnetic impeller 18 is rotated by magnetic coupling by aligning the axial centers and the liquid 3 is removed. Although it is necessary to pump up, the number of parts for matching the axes of the magnet 17 and the magnetic impeller 18 is three parts, the main body 1, the water storage tank 8, and the water supply case 9. In addition, it is difficult to remove, and the number of parts is large, so that the assemblability is poor and the cost is high.
[0007]
The present invention solves the above-described conventional problems, and in the structure of a water supply pump that supplies water from a water storage tank to a container, it is easy to achieve consistency for aligning the axes, and water supply performance is less likely to cause step-out. An object is to provide a highly reliable electric water heater that can be realized and has a reduced number of parts.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve the above-described conventional problems, the present invention has a configuration in which a casing for storing an impeller is provided integrally with a water storage tank. With this configuration, it is possible to reduce the number of parts for matching the water supply motor and the impeller shaft center.
[0009]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The invention according to claim 1 includes a container for heating the liquid provided in the main body, and a water storage tank for storing the liquid supplied to the container, the water storage tank being detachable from the main body, A casing for housing the impeller is provided integrally with the outer shell of the water storage tank, and the impeller is rotated in the water storage tank in synchronization with a water supply motor attached to the main body to feed the liquid. Since the casing for housing the impeller is provided integrally, the number of parts for making the water supply motor coincide with the shaft center of the impeller can be reduced. Therefore, step-out hardly occurs and stable water supply performance can be obtained. In addition, it is possible to provide a highly reliable device that has excellent water supply performance with no water leakage from the water storage tank and no step-out of the water supply pump.
[0010]
further, A tank cover is provided to divide the interior of the water storage tank into a water storage section and a pumping path, an impeller is provided in the pumping path, and the liquid pumped in the pumping path is supplied to a water supply path connected to the side surface of the container. Thus, if the water supply portion to the water supply channel is positioned above the liquid level (full water level) of the container, the liquid can always be supplied from above the liquid level in the container and does not flow backward.
[0011]
Moreover, since it is the structure which divides the inside of a water storage tank into a water storage part and a pumping path by a tank cover, a pumping path can be made into a simple structure. Also, if the tank cover can be removed, the inside of the container can be easily cleaned.
[0012]
Claim 2 The invention described in, in particular, has an inlet that is provided in the water storage tank and injects the liquid in the water storage tank into the water supply channel, and a water supply receiver that is provided in the water storage tank and guides the liquid to the inlet, The liquid in the water storage tank is pumped up by a water pumping path and guided to the water supply receiver, and when the water storage tank is attached to the main body, the inlet is exposed to the water supply path. When the liquid is stored, it overflows and returns to the water storage section of the water storage tank, so there is no risk of water being supplied into the water heater container beyond the height of the overflowing portion, and the hot liquid in the water heater container is discharged to the outside. There is no fear.
[0013]
Claim 3 In particular, the invention described in (1) can reduce the number of parts, reduce the number of assembling steps, and facilitate cleaning of the water storage tank by forming the pumping path with the tank cover and the inner wall of the water storage tank. can do.
[0014]
Claim 4 In particular, the invention described in 1 is fitted with a convex or concave shape on the side surface of the main body, a concave or convex shape A on the side surface of the water storage tank, and the main body above the water supply motor and the water storage tank below the impeller. The shape B is provided, and the gap size of the fitting shape B is smaller than the gap size of the fitting shape A, so that the water supply motor and the impeller can be easily aligned with each other. it can.
[0015]
Claim 5 In the invention described in the above, particularly when the main body and the water storage tank are fitted, the main body is used when the fitting between the outer peripheral rib provided on the outer side of the water supply motor portion of the main body and the casing of the water storage tank is completed. Thus, since the water supply motor and the impeller are preferentially set at an appropriate position, the water supply pump is not stepped out, the water supply performance is excellent, and the reliability can be increased.
[0016]
Claim 6 The invention according to the present invention is particularly provided in the water storage tank or the main body when the fitting between the outer peripheral rib provided on the outer side of the water supply motor portion of the main body and the casing of the water storage tank is completed. Since the lock mechanism works on the main body or the water storage tank and the main body or the water storage tank is fixed, the water supply motor and the impeller are preferentially set at an appropriate position and mechanically fixed. Therefore, there is no step-out of the water supply pump, the water supply performance is excellent, and the reliability can be increased.
[0017]
Claim 7 In particular, the lower surface of the tank of the water storage tank is positioned lower than the lower surface of the casing of the casing and at the same height or higher than the lower surface of the main body, so that the water supply motor and the impeller have priority. Because it is set at an appropriate position, there is no step-out of the water supply pump, excellent water supply performance, improved reliability, and good design with a line on the bottom of the main body and water storage tank. .
[0018]
Claim 8 In particular, in the invention described in the above, since the bottom surface of the water storage section of the water storage tank has a downward slope toward the bottom surface of the casing, all of the liquid in the water storage tank can be put into the casing. It can be clean and efficient without saving.
[0019]
Claim 9 In particular, the water supply motor is provided on the side surface of the main body, the impeller is provided opposite to the water supply motor, and the rotation shaft of the water supply motor and the rotation shaft of the impeller are configured to be substantially horizontal. In this way, it is possible to use the effective water storage section efficiently and compactly until the bottom surface of the water storage tank is at the limit.
[0020]
Claim 10 The invention according to the present invention is configured such that the main body is in use when the shaft center of the water supply motor of the main body and the shaft center of the impeller of the water storage tank coincide with each other in the fitting of the main body and the water storage tank. Since the water supply motor and the impeller are set at an appropriate position with priority, the water supply pump does not step out, the water supply performance is excellent, the reliability can be improved, and the device can be made compact.
[0021]
Claim 11 In particular, the invention described in (1) has a convex or concave shape on the side surface of the main body, a concave or convex fitting shape A on the side surface of the water storage tank, and the main body on the side surface of the water supply motor and the water storage tank on the side surface of the impeller. By providing a fitting shape B with the same axis, and making the gap size of the fitting shape B smaller than the gap size of the fitting shape A, the axis of the water supply motor and the impeller can be easily aligned. It has excellent water supply performance, can improve reliability, and can be made compact.
[0022]
Claim 12 The invention described in the above, particularly when the axis of the water supply motor and the impeller coincide with each other, a lock mechanism provided in the water storage tank or the main body works on the main body or the water storage tank, and fixes the main body and the water storage tank Therefore, the water supply motor and impeller are set at the proper position with priority, and are mechanically fixed, so there is no step-out of the water supply pump, and the water supply performance is excellent and reliable. Can do.
[0023]
【Example】
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
[0024]
(Example 1)
FIG. 1 is a sectional view of an electric water heater in a first embodiment of the present invention. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same structure as an Example.
[0025]
In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a main body that constitutes the outline of an electric water heater. 2 is a container for storing the liquid 3, 2 a is a full water position of the container 2, and the liquid 3 can be put to this position. 4 is a heating means disposed on the bottom surface of the container 2, 5 is a control unit for controlling the heating means and the like, 6 is a lid body positioned above the container 2, and a steam port 7 is provided at the top, The vapor | steam from the inside of the container 2 is guide | induced to the exterior. A pump 12 pumps the liquid 3 from the container 2 to the outside, and guides the liquid to the outside through the outlet path 13 and the outlet 14. Reference numeral 15 denotes a water level sensor provided around the water pipe, which detects how far the liquid 3 in the container 2 is contained by a phototransistor or the like.
[0026]
8 is a water storage tank that is detachably held on the side surface of the main body 1, and 8 a is a full position of the water storage tank where the liquid 3 can be put up to this position. 20 is located in the lower part of the water storage tank 8, and is a substantially U-shaped casing, and is integral with the water storage tank 8. 21 is a water supply path for leading the liquid 3 from the water storage tank 8 into the container 2, 22 is a water supply port connected to the container 2 from the water supply path 21, and 16 is a water supply motor for pumping the liquid 3 from the water storage tank 8 into the container 2. Thus, the magnet 17 is fixed to the main body 1 and to the tip of the shaft. Reference numeral 18 denotes a magnet type impeller housed in the casing 20 and is disposed at a position facing the magnet 17. As an operation of supplying water, when the water supply motor 16 is driven by the control of the control unit 5, the magnet 17 is similarly rotated. Then, the magnet-type impeller 18 disposed at a position facing the magnet 17 similarly rotates by magnetic coupling. That is, the water supply motor 16 and the magnet 17 correspond to the drive means for the impeller 18, and the impeller and the drive means constitute a water supply pump. Reference numeral 23 denotes a tank cover for covering the magnetic impeller 18 on the casing 20, and forms a pumping path from the water storage tank 8 together with the inner wall of the water storage tank 8.
[0027]
As a convenience of the electric water heater, the liquid 3 in the container 2 is reduced, and the liquid 3 in the water storage tank 8 is supplied into the container 2 so that the water in the water storage tank 8 is reduced or lost. By removing only the tank 8 from the main body 1 and supplying water, and then setting the main body 1 again, there is an effect that water can be supplied without having the heavy main body 1.
[0028]
About the electric water heater comprised as mentioned above, the operation | movement effect | action is demonstrated below.
[0029]
The case where the water storage tank 8 is set in the main body 1 and water is supplied from the water storage tank 8 to the container 2 will be described. As an operation of supplying water, when the water supply motor 16 is driven by the control of the control unit 5, the magnet 17 is similarly rotated. Then, the magnet type impeller 18 disposed at a position facing the magnet 17 is similarly rotated by magnetic coupling. At this time, the liquid 3 in the water storage tank 8 is pumped up by the impeller 18 blades through the pumping path 24 constituted by the casing 20 and the tank cover 23, and dropped onto the water supply receiver 26 through the pumping path outlet 25. . Then, water is supplied into the container 2 through the water supply path 21 and the inlet 27. The control unit 5 determines the timing of water supply and water supply stop by controlling information from the water level sensor 15 and controlling the drive of the water supply motor 16. At this time, since the magnet 17 and the magnetic impeller 18 operate by magnetic coupling, unless they are aligned with each other and kept at a certain distance from each other, they will not step out and operate properly. I can't.
[0030]
However, in this embodiment, the water storage tank 8 is detachably attached to the main body 1, and a casing 20 for housing the impeller 18 is provided integrally with the outer shell of the water storage tank 8, and is synchronized with the water supply motor 16 attached to the main body 1. By rotating the impeller 18 in the water storage tank 8 and feeding the liquid 3, the water storage tank 8 and the casing 20 are an integral part, so that the axes of the magnet 17 and the magnetic impeller 18 are aligned for matching. Since it can be performed with only two parts of the water storage tank 8 and the main body 1, it is possible to easily align the axes. Moreover, since it is an integral part, there is no gap between the water storage tank 8 and the casing 20, and no liquid leaks. Furthermore, the number of parts can be reduced.
[0031]
In addition, since the liquid 3 pumped in the pumping path 24 is supplied to the water supply path 21 having one end connected to the side surface of the container 2, the water supply portion to the water supply path 21 is the liquid level (full water) of the container 2. If it is located above the liquid level, the liquid can always be supplied from a position higher than the liquid level in the container 2 and does not flow backward.
[0032]
In addition, a tank cover 23 that divides the inside of the water storage tank 8 into a water storage part (portion where the liquid 3 is stored) and a pumping path 24 is provided, an impeller 18 is provided in the pumping path 24, and the tank cover 23 is attached and detached. In this case, the tank cover 23 and the magnetic impeller 18 can be removed to wash the water storage tank 8.
[0033]
In addition, it has an inlet 27 for injecting the liquid 3 in the water storage tank 8 into the water supply path 21 provided in the water storage tank 8, and a water supply receiver 26 provided in the water storage tank 8 for guiding the liquid 3 to the inlet 27. The liquid 3 in the water storage tank 8 is pumped by the water pumping path 24 and guided to the water supply receptacle 26, and when the water storage tank 8 is attached to the main body 1, the inlet 27 faces the water supply path 21. If too much liquid is stored, it overflows and returns to the water storage section of the water storage tank, so there is no risk of water being supplied into the water heater container beyond the height of the overflowing portion, and the hot liquid in the water heater container is exposed to the outside. There is no fear of being discharged.
[0034]
Therefore, it is possible to provide a highly reliable device without water leakage and step-out, a device with a small number of parts, and a device with excellent cleaning properties.
[0035]
In this embodiment, the impeller is specifically rotated by magnetic coupling, but other methods, for example, the shaft from the water supply motor is directly meshed with the impeller by a gear or the like, Although it is necessary to seal the outlet with packing or the like, the same effect can be obtained even if the impeller is rotated by synchronizing the water supply motor and the impeller or mechanically connecting the two.
[0036]
(Example 2)
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an electric water heater according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a plan view of the main part of the electric water heater. Since the basic configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, the differences will be mainly described. The same functions as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.
[0037]
2 and 3, 28 is a convex shape provided on the side surface of the main body 1 on the water storage tank 8 side, 29 is a concave shape provided on the side surface of the water storage tank 8 on the main body 1 side, and both fit with a certain gap A. Match. This is referred to as a fitting shape A30. Reference numeral 31 denotes an outer peripheral rib provided on the magnet 17 of the main body 1 and is fitted to the casing 20 with a certain gap B. This is referred to as a fitting shape B32.
[0038]
Hereinafter, the operation and action of the present embodiment will be described.
[0039]
The case of setting the main body 1 from the state where the water storage tank 8 is removed will be described. The water storage tank 8 is dropped from above so that the concave shape 29 is inserted into the convex shape 28 of the main body 1. At this time, since the convex shape 28 and the concave shape 29 are fitted, they are set downward while maintaining the same relationship.
[0040]
When the magnet 17 and the magnetic impeller 18 approach each other toward the final setting position, the outer peripheral rib 31 and the casing 20 existing in the vicinity of both are fitted to complete the setting. However, since the fitting dimension B is smaller than the fitting dimension A, the relationship between the magnet 17 and the magnet-type impeller 18 is the most accurate in the fitting between the two, and the axial center and distance relationship between the two are aligned. be able to.
[0041]
Moreover, from these relations, since it can set from rough fitting to exact fitting, the operativity of a set can also be improved.
[0042]
Therefore, the shaft center of the magnet and the magnetic impeller can be easily aligned, and the water supply performance without step-out can be made highly reliable.
[0043]
In the second embodiment, the convex shape 28 is provided at the position of the water supply receptacle 26. However, even if the convex shape 28 is provided at the front side and the rear side of the main body 1 and sandwiched between them, the same effect can be obtained regardless of the position and shape. . Moreover, it is not limited to the above, The convex shape of the main body 1 may be a concave shape, and the concave shape of the water storage tank 8 may be a convex shape as long as it can be fitted.
[0044]
(Example 3)
FIG. 4 is a sectional view of an electric water heater according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Since the basic configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, the differences will be mainly described. The same functions as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.
[0045]
In FIG. 4, reference numeral 33 denotes a tank lower surface which is the lowermost surface of the water storage tank 8, and when the setting to the main body 1 is completed, the tank lower surface 33 is higher than the lower surface of the main body 1, for example, 2 mm higher.
[0046]
Hereinafter, the operation and action of the present embodiment will be described.
[0047]
A case where the water storage tank 8 is set in a state where it is removed will be described. The water storage tank 8 is dropped from above so that the concave shape 29 is inserted into the convex shape 28 of the main body 1. At that time, since the convex shape 28 and the concave shape 29 are fitted, they are set downward while maintaining the same relationship.
[0048]
Then, when the magnet 17 and the magnet type impeller 18 approach each other toward the final setting position, the outer peripheral rib 30 and the casing 20 existing in the vicinity of both fit together, and the setting is completed.
[0049]
However, since the fitting dimension B is smaller than the fitting dimension A, the relationship between the magnet 17 and the magnet-type impeller 18 is the most accurate in the fitting between the two, and the axial center and distance relationship between the two are aligned. be able to. At the same time, the main body is in a state of use, that is, a state in which hot water can be discharged or water can be supplied from the water storage tank to the container. In addition, since the tank lower surface 33 is 2 mm higher than the lower surface of the main body 1 (C> 0), when the water storage tank 8 is set, the tank lower surface 33 can be held on the floor, and the magnet 17 and the magnetic impeller 18 It is never set when the relationship is floating.
[0050]
Therefore, since the magnet and the magnetic impeller are set at an appropriate position with priority, there is no step-out of the water supply pump, and a highly reliable device with excellent water supply performance can be provided.
[0051]
In the third embodiment, the distance between the lower surface of the tank and the lower surface of the main body is 2 mm, but the lower surface of the tank only needs to be higher than the lower surface of the main body. Practically, 0 to 5 mm is considered appropriate.
[0052]
(Example 4)
FIG. 5 is a sectional view of an electric water heater in the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Since the basic configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, the differences will be mainly described. The same functions as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.
[0053]
In FIG. 5, reference numeral 34 denotes a lock support that constitutes a lock mechanism between the main body 1 and the water storage tank 8, and 35 denotes a spring that slides the lock support 34, inside the sliding portion 36 disposed on the side surface of the water storage tank 8. It is housed together with the lock support 35. Reference numeral 37 denotes a positioning portion provided on the side surface of the main body 1, and the lock support 34 is inserted during setting.
[0054]
Hereinafter, the operation and action of the present embodiment will be described.
[0055]
The case where it sets to the main body 1 from the state which removed the water storage tank 8 is demonstrated. The water storage tank 8 is dropped from above so that the concave shape 29 is inserted into the convex shape 28 of the main body 1. At this time, since the convex shape 28 and the concave shape 29 are fitted, they are set downward while maintaining the same relationship.
[0056]
When the magnet 17 and the magnet type impeller 18 approach each other toward the final setting position, the outer peripheral rib 31 and the casing 20 existing in the vicinity of both are fitted to complete the setting. Almost at the same time, the lock support 34 that has been hit against the side surface of the main body 1 and housed in the sliding portion 36 has an opening at the positioning portion 37 of the main body 1. The tip portion is accommodated in the positioning portion 37. Thus, the main body 1 and the water storage tank 8 are securely fixed by the lock mechanism, and the positional relationship between the magnet 17 and the magnetic impeller 18 is maintained at an appropriate position.
[0057]
Further, when the water storage tank 8 is attached or detached, it can be easily removed by raising the water storage tank 8 while pulling the lock support 34 toward the water storage tank 8 side.
[0058]
Therefore, since the magnet and the magnet type impeller are set at an appropriate position with priority and are securely fixed mechanically, there is no step-out of the water supply pump, and a highly reliable device with excellent water supply performance can be provided. .
[0059]
In addition, since the main body and the water storage tank can be fixed by a lock mechanism, even if a hand hits the water storage tank, the magnet and the impeller are not displaced, and water can be supplied normally.
[0060]
In the fourth embodiment, the lock mechanism as described above is shown. However, the same effect can be obtained by other methods such as fixing both using the attractive force of the magnet without being limited to this method.
[0061]
In the specific description of the fourth embodiment, an example in which a lock mechanism is provided on the water storage tank side is described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the same effect can be obtained by providing the lock mechanism on the main body side.
[0062]
(Example 5)
FIG. 6 is a sectional view of an electric water heater in a fifth embodiment of the present invention. Since the basic configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, the differences will be mainly described. The same functions as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.
[0063]
In FIG. 6, 38 is a casing lower surface of the casing 20, and 33 is a tank lower surface of the water storage tank 8. Regarding the positional relationship, the tank lower surface 33 is located below the casing lower surface 38 and is located at the same height or several millimeters as the lower surface of the main body 1.
[0064]
Hereinafter, the operation and action of the present embodiment will be described.
[0065]
A case where the water storage tank 8 is set in the main body 1 will be described. As shown in FIG. 13 of the conventional example, the main body 1 and the water storage tank 8 are inserted into the main body 1 so that the appearance of the main body 1 is not only visible, but is fitted to the side surface of the main body 1. In other words, set it so that both can be seen side by side.
[0066]
However, since the tank lower surface 33 is positioned below the casing lower surface 38 in the configuration of the present embodiment, the appearance can be aligned with the line of the lower surface of the main body 1, so that the design can be made beautiful. Moreover, since a space is provided in the casing lower surface 38 and the tank lower surface 33, the main body 1 can be submerged and components can be arranged effectively.
[0067]
Therefore, since the magnet and the magnetic impeller are set in an appropriate position with priority, the water pump does not step out, providing highly reliable equipment with excellent water supply performance, and the bottom line of the main body and water storage tank Can provide equipment with good design.
[0068]
(Example 6)
FIG. 7 is a sectional view of an electric water heater according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. Since the basic configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, the differences will be mainly described. The same functions as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.
[0069]
In FIG. 7, 39 is a bottom surface of the water storage section of the water storage tank, and is provided with a downward slope toward the casing 20.
[0070]
Hereinafter, the operation and action of the present embodiment will be described.
[0071]
The case where the water storage tank 8 is set in the main body 1 and the liquid 3 is supplied into the container 2 will be described. The liquid 3 is supplied into the container 2 through the casing 20 and the tank cover 23 by the operation of the magnetic impeller 18. When the liquid 3 in the water storage tank 8 is running out, the water storage portion bottom surface 39 is inclined toward the casing 20, so that all the liquid 3 flows into the casing 20 according to gravity. That is, all the liquid 3 is supplied into the container 2.
[0072]
Therefore, almost all of the liquid in the water storage tank can be pumped up to the container side, so that it is clean and efficient without leaving wasteful liquid in the water storage tank.
[0073]
(Example 7)
FIG. 8 is a sectional view of an electric water heater according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. Since the basic configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, the differences will be mainly described. The same functions as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.
[0074]
In FIG. 8, the water supply motor 16 and the magnet 17 are provided on the side surface of the main body, and the magnet type impeller 18 is provided on the side surface of the water storage tank 8 so as to be opposed thereto. In this configuration, the axis is substantially horizontal.
[0075]
Hereinafter, the operation and action of the present embodiment will be described.
[0076]
In the present embodiment, since the shaft centers of the water supply motor 16 and the magnet 17 are fixed in a substantially horizontal direction, the magnet type impeller 18 can be arranged up to the lowest part of the water storage tank 8. Therefore, the magnetic impeller 18 rotates around the horizontal direction, and supplies the liquid 3 through the casing 20 and the tank cover 23 into the container 2. However, in the configuration of the present embodiment, the positional relationship between the tank lower surface 33 and the lower surface of the casing 20 can be made substantially the same, so that the volume that can actually contain liquid relative to the volume of the water storage tank, that is, the water storage tank 8 The amount of water stored can be increased significantly. Or if the capacity | capacitance is the same, the magnitude | size of the water storage tank 8 can be made compact.
[0077]
Therefore, since it can be used for an effective water storage part to the bottom surface of a water storage tank, the capacity | capacitance increase or shape of a water storage tank can be made compact.
[0078]
Further, the same effect can be obtained if the water supply motor is submerged under the water storage tank as in the first embodiment and fixed in a substantially horizontal direction, or supported in a substantially horizontal direction in the depth direction. It is done.
[0079]
If a trumpet-shaped cylinder is provided downward from the hole of the tank cover next to the impeller, the amount of remaining water in the water storage tank can be further reduced.
[0080]
Further, as shown in FIG. 9, when the water storage tank 8 is set in the main body 1, the tank lower surface 33 is set to a position D slightly higher than the lower surface of the main body 1. As a result, the tank lower surface 33 can be held on the floor, and the axial centers of the magnet 17 and the magnetic impeller 18 can be prevented from becoming inconsistent.
[0081]
Therefore, since the magnet and the magnetic impeller can be preferentially set at an appropriate position, there is no out-of-step of the water supply pump, and the water supply performance can be improved.
[0082]
The difference in the height D between the lower surface of the tank and the lower surface of the main body is sufficient if the lower surface of the tank is higher than the lower surface of the main body, and is practically about 0 to 5 mm.
[0083]
(Example 8)
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an electric water heater according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is a plan view of the main part of the electric water heater. Since the basic configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, the differences will be mainly described. The same functions as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.
[0084]
10 and 11, the convex shape 28 provided on the side surface of the main body 1 on the water storage tank 8 side and the concave shape 29 provided on the side surface of the water storage tank 8 on the main body 1 side are fitted with a certain gap A. It is in the state of fitting shape A30. Further, the outer peripheral rib 31 provided on the magnet 17 of the main body 1 and the fitting portion 40 of the casing 20 are in a state of a fitting shape B32 that is fitted with a certain gap B.
[0085]
Hereinafter, the operation and action of the present embodiment will be described.
[0086]
When the water storage tank 8 is set from a state where it is removed from the main body 1, the concave shape 29 of the water storage tank 8 is dropped from above so as to enter the convex shape 28 of the main body 1. At that time, since the convex shape 28 and the concave shape 29 are fitted, they are set downward while maintaining the same relationship. When the magnet 17 and the magnetic impeller 18 approach each other toward the final setting position, the outer peripheral rib 31 and the fitting portion 40 of the casing 20 that are present in the vicinity of both are fitted, and the setting is completed.
[0087]
However, since the fitting dimension F of the fitting shape B32 is smaller than the fitting dimension E of the fitting shape A30, the relationship between the magnet 17 and the magnet-type impeller 18 is the most accurate of the two fittings. The axial center and distance relationship between the two can be made uniform. In addition, from these relations, it is possible to set from rough fitting to tight fitting, so that the setability is improved.
[0088]
Therefore, it is possible to easily align the shaft centers of the magnet and the magnetic impeller, and to provide a highly reliable device with excellent water supply performance that does not cause step-out.
[0089]
In the present embodiment, the convex shape is brought to the position of the water supply receptacle. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and if it can be fitted, the position and shape are not particular. The same effect can be obtained by providing the front and rear and sandwiching them.
[0090]
Example 9
FIG. 12 is a sectional view of an electric water heater according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention. Since the basic configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, the differences will be mainly described. The same functions as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.
[0091]
In FIG. 12, a lock support 34 constituting a lock mechanism for the main body 1 and the water storage tank 8 and a spring 35 for sliding the lock support 32 are accommodated in a sliding portion 36 disposed on the side of the water storage tank 8. doing. At the time of setting, the lock support 34 is inserted into the positioning portion 37 provided on the side surface of the main body 1.
[0092]
Hereinafter, the operation and action of the present embodiment will be described.
[0093]
When the water storage tank 8 is set from a state where it is removed from the main body 1, the water storage tank 8 is dropped from above so that the concave shape 29 is inserted into the convex shape 28 of the main body 1. At that time, since the convex shape 28 and the concave shape 29 are fitted, they are set downward while maintaining the same relationship.
[0094]
When the magnet 17 and the magnet type impeller 18 approach each other toward the final setting position, the outer peripheral rib 31 and the fitting part 40 of the casing existing in the vicinity of each of the magnets are fitted to complete the setting. Almost at the same time, the lock support 34 that has been hit against the side surface of the main body 1 and housed in the sliding portion 36 has an opening at the positioning portion 37 of the main body 1. The tip portion is accommodated in the positioning portion 37. Thus, the main body 1 and the water storage tank 8 are securely fixed by the lock mechanism, and the positional relationship between the magnet 17 and the magnetic impeller 18 is maintained at an appropriate position. Further, when the water storage tank 8 is attached or detached, it can be easily removed by raising the water storage tank 8 while pulling the lock support 34 toward the water storage tank 8 side.
[0095]
Therefore, since the magnet and the magnet type impeller are preferentially set at an appropriate position and securely fixed mechanically, the feed water pump will not be stepped out and the water supply performance will be excellent. it can.
[0096]
In addition, since the main body and the water storage tank can be fixed by a lock mechanism, even if a hand hits the water storage tank, the magnet and the impeller are not displaced, and water can be supplied normally.
[0097]
In the present embodiment, the lock mechanism as described above is shown, but the same effect can be obtained by other methods such as fixing both of them using the attractive force of the magnet without being limited to this method.
[0098]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, in the structure of the water supply pump that supplies water from the water storage tank to the container, it is easy to achieve consistency for matching the axial centers, and excellent water supply performance that does not easily cause step-out is realized. It is possible to achieve high reliability with a reduced number of parts.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an electric water heater in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a sectional view of an electric water heater in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.
[Fig. 3] Plan view of the main part of the electric water heater
FIG. 4 is a sectional view of an electric water heater in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a sectional view of an electric water heater according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an electric water heater according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an electric water heater in Embodiment 6 of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an electric water heater in Embodiment 7 of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a sectional view of the electric water heater
FIG. 10 is a sectional view of an electric water heater according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a plan view of the main part of the electric water heater.
FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an electric water heater in Embodiment 9 of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a conventional electric water heater
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Body
2 containers
3 Liquid
8 Water storage tank
16 Water supply motor
18 Impeller
20 casing
21 Water absorption channel
23 Tank cover
24 Pumping route
28 Convex shape
29 Concave shape
30 Fitting shape A
31 Outer peripheral rib
32 Fitting shape B
33 Tank bottom
34 Locking support (locking mechanism)
35 Spring (locking mechanism)
38 Bottom of casing
39 Water storage bottom

Claims

A container provided in the body for heating the liquid; and a water storage tank for storing the liquid supplied to the container; the water storage tank being detachable from the main body; and an impeller integrally formed with an outline of the water storage tank A tank provided with a casing for housing, wherein the liquid is supplied by rotating the impeller in the water storage tank in synchronization with a water supply motor attached to the main body, and the inside of the water storage tank is divided into a water storage section and a pumping path provided with a cover, provided with the impeller within the pumping path, water to become electric kettle water supply path one end of the liquid which is pumped by the pumping path on a side face of the container is connected.

A water supply tank provided with an inlet for injecting liquid in the water storage tank into a water supply path; and a water supply receiver provided in the water storage tank for introducing liquid into the water inlet; electric kettle according with guided to the pumping said water receiving, in claim 1 configured such that the faces the inlet of the water storage tank to the water supply path to be attached to the body by.

The electric water heater according to claim 1 , wherein the pumping path is formed by a tank cover and an inner wall of the water storage tank.

A container provided in the body for heating the liquid; and a water storage tank for storing the liquid supplied to the container; the water storage tank being detachable from the main body; and an impeller integrally formed with an outline of the water storage tank the housing is a casing provided, wherein in synchronism with the water supply motor attached to the body by rotating the impeller within the water storage tank becomes to water the liquid, said main body on a side surface convex or concave shape, the water storage tank side a fitting shape a concave or convex shape, and a fitting shape B to the water storage tank of the impeller lower and the water supply motor above the body provided, the gap dimension of the fitting shape B is the fitting shape smaller than the gap dimension of a Kushida electric kettle.

A container provided in the body for heating the liquid; and a water storage tank for storing the liquid supplied to the container; the water storage tank being detachable from the main body; and an impeller integrally formed with an outline of the water storage tank the housing is a casing provided, in synchronization with the feed water motor attached to the main body by rotating the impeller within the water storage tank becomes to water the liquid, in the fitting of the water storage tank and the body, the said body The electric water heater which will be in the use condition of the said main body at the time of completion of fitting with the outer periphery rib provided in the outer side of the water supply motor part, and the casing of the said water storage tank.

A container provided in the body for heating the liquid; and a water storage tank for storing the liquid supplied to the container; the water storage tank being detachable from the main body; and an impeller integrally formed with an outline of the water storage tank the housing is a casing provided, in synchronization with the feed water motor attached to the main body by rotating the impeller within the water storage tank becomes to water the liquid, in the fitting of the water storage tank and the body, the said body during fitting of the outer peripheral rib provided on the water supply motor unit outside the casing of the water storage tank is completed, the lock mechanism provided in the water storage tank or the body acts on the body or the water storage tank, said body or said water storage tank Electric water heater with a configuration to fix the.

A container provided in the body for heating the liquid; and a water storage tank for storing the liquid supplied to the container; the water storage tank being detachable from the main body; and an impeller integrally formed with an outline of the water storage tank the housing is a casing provided, in synchronization with the feed water motor attached to the main body by rotating the impeller within the water storage tank becomes to water the liquid tank bottom surface of said water storage tank, from the casing bottom surface of the casing configuration and electrical water heaters that located below, and is located on the lower surface of the same height or above the body.

A container provided in the body for heating the liquid; and a water storage tank for storing the liquid supplied to the container; the water storage tank being detachable from the main body; and an impeller integrally formed with an outline of the water storage tank the housing is a casing provided, in synchronization with the feed water motor attached to the main body by rotating the impeller within the water storage tank becomes to water the liquid reservoir bottom of the water storage tank downward toward the casing lower surface configuration and electrical water heaters having a slope.

Provided the water supply motor side of the body, the opposite to the water supply motor impeller provided, electric kettle according to claim 1 in which the rotational axis of the the rotation axis of the water supply motor impeller is configured to be substantially horizontal.

The electric water heater according to claim 9 , wherein when the main body and the water storage tank are fitted, the main body is in use when the axial center of the water supply motor of the main body coincides with the axial center of the impeller of the water storage tank.

Convex or concave shape on the side of the main body, concave or convex fitting shape A on the side of the water tank, and fitting shape in which the axes of the main body on the side of the water supply motor and the water tank on the side of the impeller coincide with each other The electric water heater according to claim 7 or 8 , wherein B is provided and the gap size of the fitting shape B is smaller than the gap size of the fitting shape A.

When the axis of the water supply motor and the impeller are matched, the lock mechanism provided in the water storage tank or the body acts on the body or the water storage tank, configuration and the claims 9-11 for securing said water storage tank and the body The electric water heater according to any one of the above.