JP3909252B2

JP3909252B2 - Steam generator

Info

Publication number: JP3909252B2
Application number: JP2002037018A
Authority: JP
Inventors: 清市山本; 良之野島; 雅仁市川
Original assignee: Yamaha Living Tech Co Ltd
Current assignee: Yamaha Living Tech Co Ltd
Priority date: 2002-02-14
Filing date: 2002-02-14
Publication date: 2007-04-25
Anticipated expiration: 2022-02-14
Also published as: JP2003235929A

Description

【０００１】
【発明の属する技術分野】
本発明は、例えば一般家庭の浴室等に設置されて浴室内に蒸気を発生させ得る蒸気発生装置に関する。
【０００２】
【従来の技術】
従来、浴室内に設置される蒸気発生装置としては、例えば特許第２８７１３４０号公報あるいは特許第２７７３０１４号公報に開示されている。前者（特許第２８７１３４０号公報）に開示の蒸気発生装置は、蒸気吹出口と空気吸込口を有する外装体の内部に、複数の湯噴出口を有する湯噴出管と熱交換促進部材及びファンをそれぞれ配置し、湯噴出管の湯噴出口から熱交換促進部材に湯を放散することにより蒸気を発生させ、この蒸気をファンの回転で蒸気吹出口から吹き出すようにしたものである。
【０００３】
そして、この蒸気発生装置１０１は、一般的に図１２に示すように、温水循環回路を有さない給湯機１０２の給湯口１０２ａに湯噴出管１０３を配管１０４を介して接続する。これにより、湯噴出管１０３から放散される湯が、ファン１０６の作動で熱交換促進部材１０７の平行な各薄板１０７ａ間を通過する空気を加温加湿して温度上昇させ、この空気の温度上昇に伴い蒸気圧差を生じさせて、湯の一部を蒸発させて蒸気とするようになっており、この蒸気によって浴室内が加温加湿される。
【０００４】
また、後者（特許第２７７３０１４号公報）に開示の蒸気発生装置は、蒸気吹出口と空気吸込口が開口する外装体の内部に、複数の湯噴出口を有する湯噴出管と熱交換促進部材及びファンをそれぞれ配置し、湯噴出管の湯噴出口から熱交換促進部材に湯を放散すると共に、熱交換促進部材の薄板を連結するパイプ状の連結部材の内部に高温水を供給することにより蒸気を発生させ、この蒸気をファンの回転で蒸気吹出口から吹き出すようにしたものである。
【０００５】
そして、この蒸気発生装置１０１は、一般的に図１３に示すように、温水循環回路１０２ｂを有する給湯暖房機１０２の給湯口１０２ａに湯噴出管１０３を配管１０４を介して接続すると共に、給湯暖房機１０２の温水循環回路１０２ｂの出口と入口に熱交換促進部材１０７の連結部材１０７ｂの両端を配管１０８を介して接続することによって設置される。これにより、湯噴出管１０３から熱交換促進部材１０７に放散される湯と連結部材１０７ｂを流れる湯との熱によって、前者の蒸気発生装置１０１と同様に蒸気を発生させて浴室内の加温加湿が行えると共に、湯噴出管１０３から湯を放散させずに連結部材１０７ｂ内に高温水を循環供給してファン１０６を作動させることで、浴室内を加湿させずに加温して暖房するようになっている。
【０００６】
【発明が解決しようとする課題】
しかしながら、これらの蒸気発生装置１０１においては、湯噴出管１０３から熱交換促進部材１０７の薄板１０７ａ間に放散されて下方に流下する温度が下がった湯を、熱交換促進部材１０７の下部に配置したドレンパン１０９で受け、このドレンパン１０９に設けた排湯口から排水管１１０を介して、例えば浴室の排水路に排水しているため、湯噴出管１０３に供給される湯（水）の有効活用を図ることが困難であり、経済的にも省エネルギーの面においても好ましくないという問題点を有している。
【０００７】
また、蒸気の発生に給湯機や給湯暖房機（給湯機１０２等という）の温水を直接使用しているため、次のような問題点も有している。すなわち、これらの蒸気発生装置１０１においては、例えば６０℃以上の高温水を湯噴出管１０３に供給する必要があるが、給湯機１０２等の湯度を高温水に設定すると、一般家庭等において浴室以外の台所や洗面所で使用される給湯機１０２等の湯温としては不適切となる場合がある。そして、このことは、特に冬季のように浴室内温度が低い場合等において、浴室内を所定温度まで加温加湿しようとすると、給湯機１０２等から供給される高温水の温度を一層上げる必要があり顕著になり易い。
【０００８】
また、給湯機１０２等を蒸気発生装置１０１に応じて個別に操作することが難しいことから、給湯機１０２等の給湯温度設定や浴室内温度によって蒸気の発生度合いにバラツキが発生し易く、季節に係わらず安定した蒸気の発生状態を得ることが困難になる。
【０００９】
本発明は、このような事情に鑑みてなされたもので、その目的は、湯噴出管から熱交換促進部材に放散される湯を再利用することによって水の有効活用を図ると共に、湯噴出管から放散される湯を給湯機等の高温水とは個別に制御して安定した蒸気発生状態等が得られる蒸気発生装置を提供することにある。
【００１０】
【課題を解決するための手段】
かかる目的を達成すべく、本発明のうち請求項１に記載の発明は、加熱手段を有する熱交換促進部材に、湯噴出管の湯噴出口から所定温度の湯を放散することにより蒸気を発生させ、該蒸気をファンの作動によって蒸気吹出口から吹き出す蒸気発生手段と、該蒸気発生手段の湯噴出管から放散され熱交換促進部材に接触した湯を回収して前記湯噴出管に直接戻す湯循環手段と、前記蒸気発生手段及び湯循環手段の作動を制御する制御手段と、を備えると共に、前記湯循環手段が、熱交換促進部材に接触した湯を回収する湯回収部材と、該湯回収部材の排出口と前記湯噴出管との間に配置された循環ポンプと、該循環ポンプによる循環流路に水もしくは湯を供給する水等供給手段と、循環する湯を外部に排水し得る排水手段と、を備え、前記制御手段は、湯循環手段における循環ポンプの電気的特性値を制御して湯の循環量を調整することによって、蒸気発生手段から発生する蒸気の量を制御することを特徴とする。
【００１１】
このように構成することにより、蒸気発生手段の湯噴出管の噴出口から熱交換促進部材に放散される湯は、熱交換促進部材に接触することによってその一部が蒸気となってファンの回転で蒸気吹出口から吹き出され、残りの湯が湯循環手段によって再び湯噴出管に直接戻されてその湯噴出口から熱交換促進部材上に再放散される。このため、湯噴出管で使用される湯を排水する必要がなくなり水の再利用が図れると共に、湯循環手段の湯の個別制御が簡単に行えることから、安定した蒸気発生状態が得られる。また、ドレンパン等の湯回収部材、循環ポンプ、水等供給手段及び排水手段によって湯循環手段が形成されることから、湯循環手段の構成の簡素化と湯の確実な循環動作や排水動作が得られると共に、蒸気の発生量が湯循環手段内の湯量を調整することで行われることから、制御自体が簡単となって所定量の蒸気の安定かつ確実な発生状態が得られる。
【００１２】
また、請求項２に記載の発明は、加熱手段を有する熱交換促進部材に、湯噴出管の湯噴出口から所定温度の湯を放散することにより蒸気を発生させ、該蒸気をファンの作動によって蒸気吹出口から吹き出す蒸気発生手段と、該蒸気発生手段の湯噴出管から放散され熱交換促進部材に接触した湯を回収して前記湯噴出管に直接戻す湯循環手段と、前記蒸気発生手段及び湯循環手段の作動を制御する制御手段と、を備えると共に、前記湯循環手段が、熱交換促進部材に接触した湯を回収する湯回収部材と、該湯回収部材の排出口と前記湯噴出管との間に配置された循環ポンプと、該循環ポンプによる循環流路に水もしくは湯を供給する水等供給手段と、循環する湯を外部に排水し得る排水手段と、を備え、前記制御手段は、前記湯循環手段内の循環湯量、前記循環ポンプの電気的特性値、前記湯回収部材の水位の少なくとも一つの値を検知する検知手段の検知結果に基づいて、前記水等供給手段による水もしくは湯の補給量を制御することにより前記湯循環手段における湯の循環量を所定に維持することを特徴とする。このように構成することにより、例えば湯循環手段の循環流路を流れる湯量を検知手段で検知し、この検知結果に基づいて循環流路に水等供給手段から補給される湯量を制御できることから、湯循環手段における湯の循環量を所定に維持できて、蒸気の発生状態の一層の安定化が図れる。
【００１５】
また、請求項３に記載の発明は、前記制御手段が、蒸気発生手段及び湯循環手段と、前記蒸気発生手段の連結部材に高温水を供給する高温水供給手段との制御を関連付けて行うことを特徴とする。このように構成することにより、蒸気発生手段及び湯循環手段の制御と給湯機等の高温水供給手段の制御とが制御手段によって関連付けられることから、制御自体の簡素化が図れてコスト安価に形成でき、特に蒸気発生手段等の電源を高温水供給手段から供給することで、配線の簡素化と蒸気発生手段側の操作性の向上が図れる。
【００１６】
【発明の実施の形態】
以下、本発明の実施の形態を図面に基づいて詳細に説明する。
図１〜図８は、本発明に係わる蒸気発生装置の一実施例を示し、図１がその基本的構成を示す概念図、図２がその概略縦断面図、図３が熱交換促進部材の斜視図、図４が蒸気発生装置の浴室への設置状態を示す概略斜視図、図５が制御系のブロック図、図６〜図８がその動作の一例を示すフローチャートである。
【００１７】
図１において、蒸気発生装置１は、蒸気発生手段２と、この蒸気発生手段２で使用する湯（温水ＨＷ１という）を循環させる湯循環手段３と、この湯循環手段３に水や湯（水等Ｗという）を供給（補給）する水等供給手段４と、前記湯循環手段３内の温水ＨＷ１を外部に排水する排水手段５と、これらを制御する制御手段６等で構成されている。
【００１８】
前記蒸気発生手段２は、熱交換促進部材７と、この熱交換促進部材７に温水を放散する湯噴出管８と、発生した蒸気等を所定方向に送風するファン９等を有し、後述する如く湯噴出管８から熱交換促進部材７に放散された温水ＨＷ１により蒸気を発生させ、この蒸気を制御手段６の制御信号で回転するファン９により、所定方向に送風（吹き出す）ようになっている。
【００１９】
そして、蒸気発生装置１は、図２に示すように、例えば樹脂で箱型に形成された外装体１０を有し、この外装体１０の傾斜した前面上部には空気吸込口１１が形成されると共に、その下部には蒸気吹出口１２が形成されている。また、外装体１０の内部には、空気吸込口１１に対向して熱交換促進部材７が外装体１０の前面と略平行に傾斜して配置されると共に、この熱交換促進部材７の前面上端部に湯噴出管８が配置され、さらに熱交換促進部材７の後方側の下部にはファン９が配置されている。なお、熱交換促進部材７の下部には、後述する湯回収手段としてのドレンパン１３が設けられ、ファン９の下部には蒸気吹出口１２方向に向けて吹出流路１４が形成されている。
【００２０】
また、蒸気発生手段２の前記熱交換促進部材７は、図３に示すように、横方向に所定間隔を有して略平行に配置された多数枚の薄板１５と、この薄板１５を横方向に連結する円形金属パイプからなる連結部材１６と、この連結部材１６を支える左右一対の支持部材１７等で構成されている。なお、薄板１５、連結部材１６及び支持部材１７は、例えばステレンススチール、アルミニウム、銅等の熱伝導率の高い金属材で形成され、連結部材１６は、１本のパイプを上部から下部に向け連続させて蛇行状に折り曲げ形成され、その両端開口部が例えば図３の右側に指向している。
【００２１】
そして、この連結部材１６の例えば上部側の開口部には、図１及び図３に示すように、給湯暖房機１９の出口２０ｂに配管２１で接続され、下部側の開口部は給湯暖房機１９の入口２０ａに配管２２で直接接続されている。なお、給湯暖房機１９は、高温水循環回路２０、ポンプ２３、バーナ２４及び制御回路２５、図示しない給湯口等を有し、制御回路２５によってバーナ２４やポンプ２３を制御することにより、制御回路２５で設定された所定温度の温水（高温水ＨＷ２という）を熱交換促進部材７の連結部材１６内に循環供給するようになっている。
【００２２】
また、蒸気発生手段２の前記湯噴出管８は、ステンレススチール等の金属パイプによって形成され、その軸方向に沿って所定間隔で複数の湯噴出口８ａ（図２参照）が下方に指向するように穿設されており、その湯噴出口８ａから噴出される温水ＨＷ１が熱交換促進部材７の前面上端部の薄板１５上に放散され得るように配置されている。前記ファン９は、例えばシロッコファン等で構成され、図示しないファンモータが回転することにより、図２の矢印イ方向に回転して、熱交換促進部材７から発生する蒸気を矢印ハの如く吹出流路１４を介して送風するようになっている。
【００２３】
前記湯循環手段３は、図１に示すように、熱交換促進部材７の下部に配置されて該促進部材７に放散された温水ＨＷ１を回収する前記ドレンパン１３と、このドレンパン１３の排出口１３ａと湯噴出管８の湯供給口８ｂとの間の配管２７の途中に連結された循環ポンプ２８等を有し、制御手段６の制御信号で循環ポンプ２８が作動することにより、ドレンパン１３に回収した温水ＨＷ１を再び湯噴出管８に戻すようになっている。
【００２４】
また、前記水等供給手段４は、水等供給源２９と、この水等供給源２９と前記ドレンパン１３との間の配管３０に配置された給水電磁弁３１等を有し、制御手段６の制御信号で給水電磁弁３１が開くことにより、水等供給源２９から所定量の水等Ｗをドレンパン１３内に供給（補給）するようになっている。なお、水等供給源２９としては、水道の蛇口を使用し水等Ｗとして水道水をそのまま利用することもできるし、給湯暖房機１９や各種給湯機の給湯口を使用し水等Ｗとして湯を利用することもできる。
【００２５】
さらに、前記排水手段５は、湯循環手段３のドレンパン１３の排出口１３ａと外部排水口３２との間の配管３３に配置された排水電磁弁３４等を有し、制御手段６の制御信号で排水電磁弁３４が開くことにより、ドレンパン１３内の温水ＨＷ１を外部に排水するようになっている。
【００２６】
前記制御手段６は、図１及び図５に示すように、マイコン等を有する制御回路３５と電源回路３６及びリモコン３７等を備え、制御回路３５の入力側には、前記ドレンパン１３に設けられて該ドレンパン１３内の温水ＨＷ１の温度を検知する水温センサ３８、ドレンパン１３内の温水ＨＷ１の水位を検知する水位センサ３９、及び蒸気発生装置１が設置される例えばユニットバスルーム４１内の室温を検知する室温センサ４０等のセンサ群が接続されると共に、有線もしくは無線で操作可能なリモコン３７が接続され、制御回路３５の出力側には前記循環ポンプ２８や各種電磁弁３１、３４等が接続されている。
【００２７】
また、蒸気発生装置１の制御回路３５は、給湯暖房機１９の制御回路２５と、例えば双方向通信回線４２によって電気的に接続されると共に、蒸気発生装置１の電源回路３６が給湯暖房機１９の電源回路４３から電力を供給され得るよう接続されている。これにより、蒸気発生装置１のリモコン３７で給湯暖房機１９の電源のオン・オフ操作や各種の運転操作等が可能になると共に、給湯暖房機１９のリモコン４４でも蒸気発生装置１の電源のオン・オフや各種の運転操作が可能になるように構成されている。
【００２８】
なお、蒸気発生装置１と給湯暖房機１９の各制御回路３５、２５の接続構造はこの例に限らず、それぞれ個別に配置して個別に操作することもできるし、図５の二点鎖線で示すように、電源回路３６、４３のみを蒸気発生装置１と給湯暖房機１９で共用する接続構造を採用することもできる。
【００２９】
そして、この蒸気発生装置１は、例えば図４に示すように、浴室を形成するユニットバスルーム４１の洗い場４６のカウンタ４７内部に設置される。この場合のユニットバスルーム４１は、壁パネル４８と天井パネル４９等によって略箱状に形成され、内部の防水パン上にはバスタブ５０が設置されると共に洗い場４６が設けられ、この洗い場４６の壁パネル４８側に前記カウンタ４７が設けられ、また天井パネル４９には浴室換気扇５１が設けられている。
【００３０】
また、図２に示すように、上面壁４７ａと前面壁４７ｂからなるカウンタ４７の前面壁４７ｂは、その上部に空気導入口５２が形成された状態で取付金具５３等によって上面壁４７ａに取り付けられると共に、その下部には蒸気発生装置１の前記蒸気吹出口１２に対応した吹出口５４が設けられている。この空気導入口５２から矢印ニの如くカウンタ４７内部に導入された空気が、蒸気発生装置１の空気吸込口１１から該装置１内に矢印ロの如く吸い込まれ、またファン９によって送風された蒸気が蒸気吹出口１２及び吹出口５４から矢印ハの如く洗い場４６内に吹き出されるようになっている。
【００３１】
なお、蒸気発生装置１のカウンタ４７への配置構造はこの例に限定されず、前記取付金具５３等を使用することなく、例えば上面壁４７ａと前面壁４７ｂが一体成形されたカウンタ４７の、前面壁４７ｂの所定位置に空気導入口５２を形成し、この空気導入口５２後方のカウンタ４７の内部に蒸気発生装置１を配置することもできるし、蒸気発生装置１を浴槽エプロン５７（図４参照）の内部に配置する等、他の適宜の配置構造を採用することができる。そして、この時、蒸気発生装置１をカウンタ４７や浴槽エプロン５７の内部に設置することで、該装置１がユニットバスルーム４１内に露出することがなくなり、ユニットバスルーム４１内部の意匠的価値（デザイン性）の低下を防止されている。
【００３２】
次に、この蒸気発生装置１の動作の一例を図６〜図８のフローチャートに基づいて説明する。なお、これらのフローチャートは前記制御回路３５のマイコン等に予め記憶されたプログラムによって自動的に実行される。図６は、基本的な動作の流れを示すもので、先ずこれについて説明する。
【００３３】
図６において、プログラムが開始（Ｓ１０１）されると、前記リモコン３７に設けられた例えばミストスイッチ等の蒸気発生装置１を作動させ得る電源ＳＷがオンしたか否かが判断（Ｓ１０２）され、この判断Ｓ１０２は「ＹＥＳ」になるまで繰り返される。そして、入浴者が蒸気発生装置１を作動させユニットバスルーム４１内を加温加湿状態で入浴しようとして電源ＳＷをオンすると、判断Ｓ１０２で「ＹＥＳ」となって、湯循環手段３の循環流路内（以下、湯循環手段３内という）に水等Ｗを供給する水等供給処理（Ｓ１０３）を行う。
【００３４】
そして、この水等供給処理Ｓ１０３の後に、給湯暖房機１９の高温水ＨＷ２を熱交換促進部材７の連結部材１６内に循環させる高温水循環処理（Ｓ１０４）を行うと共に、湯循環手段３内に所定温度の温水ＨＷ１を循環させて蒸気（ミストも含む）発生させると共に発生する蒸気の温度等を制御する蒸気温度制御（Ｓ１０５）を行う。この蒸気温度制御Ｓ１０５は、前記電源ＳＷがオフされるまでの間繰り返して行われ（Ｓ１０６）、入浴者がユニットバスルーム４１から出ようとして電源ＳＷをオフすると、判断Ｓ１０６「ＹＥＳ」となって、停止処理（Ｓ１０７）を行った後に一連のプログラムを終了（Ｓ１０８）する。
【００３５】
前記水等供給処理Ｓ１０３は、図７に示すように、先ず制御回路３５の制御信号により給水電磁弁３１を開いて（Ｓ２０１）、水等供給源２９から水等Ｗをドレンパン１３内に供給し、その後制御回路３５の制御信号により循環ポンプ２８をオン（Ｓ２０２）させてドレンパン１３内に供給された水等Ｗを湯循環手段３内で循環させる。水等Ｗが湯循環手段３内を循環し始めたらドレンパン１３内の水位が前記水位センサ３９で検知（Ｓ２０３）されて、その値が所定値か否かが判断（Ｓ２０４）される。この判断Ｓ２０４は「ＹＥＳ」になるまで繰り返され、水位が所定値に達した時点で「ＹＥＳ」となって制御回路３５の制御信号により給水電磁弁３１を閉じる（Ｓ２０５）。
【００３６】
これにより水等供給処理Ｓ１０３が実行され、この水等供給処理Ｓ１０３が実行されている間は、循環ポンプ２８はオンするもののファン９は停止状態とされており、ファン９の回転による冷風が、ユニットバスルーム４１の吹出口５４から洗い場４６内に吹き出されることはなく、例えば入浴者が電源ＳＷをオンした際に冷風を浴びること等が確実に防止される。
【００３７】
そして、水等供給処理Ｓ１０３が終了した時点か所定の水位まで水が供給された時点で、前記高温水循環処理Ｓ１０４が実行される。この高温水循環処理Ｓ１０４は、給湯暖房機１９を作動（Ｓ３０１）させ、その制御回路２５により高温水循環回路２０の湯を高温水ＨＷ２に設定すると共にポンプ２３を作動させて、熱交換促進部材７の連結部材１６内に高温水ＨＷ２を循環させることによって行う。
【００３８】
これにより、給湯暖房機１９で加熱された例えば８０℃以上の高温水ＨＷ２が、熱交換促進部材７の連結部材１６内に供給されて、該連結部材１６の温度が所定温度まで上昇させられる。この時、蒸気発生装置１の制御回路３５と給湯暖房機１９の制御回路２５とが双方向通信回線４２で接続されていることから、蒸気発生装置１のリモコン３７で給湯暖房機１９を制御できて、操作性の向上が図れることになる。
【００３９】
熱交換促進部材７の連結部材１６内に高温水ＨＷ２を循環させる高温水循環処理Ｓ１０４が実行されると、湯循環手段３内を循環している水等Ｗが次のように所定温度まで上昇して温水ＨＷ１となる。すなわち、連結部材１６に高温水ＨＷ２が循環されると連結部材１６及び薄板１５が温度上昇されて、この温度によって薄板１５上に放散される水等Ｗが温度上昇し、これが湯循環手段３内を循環することで、水等Ｗの温度が除々に上昇して高温水ＨＷ２の温度に応じた所定温度の温水ＨＷ１となる。
【００４０】
そして、水等Ｗが温水ＨＷ１となった時点で前記蒸気温度制御Ｓ１０５が行われる。この蒸気温度制御Ｓ１０５は、先ず例えば前記ステップＳ２０２の循環ポンプ２８のオン開始からの時間が所定時間ｔ１経過したか否かが判断（Ｓ４０１）される。この判断Ｓ１０４における所定時間ｔ１とは、水等供給手段４から湯循環手段３内に供給された水等Ｗが蒸気を発生させ得る温度の温水ＨＷ１となるのに必要な時間であり、例えば水等供給源２９が通常の水道水の場合には１分以内の所定時間となる。
【００４１】
そして、所定時間ｔ１が経過すると判断Ｓ４０１で「ＹＥＳ」となって、制御回路３５の制御信号でファン９を回転（Ｓ４０２）させる。このファン９の回転により、例えばカウンタ４７の前面壁４７ｂの空気導入口５２からカウンタ４７内部に導入されたユニットバスルーム４１内の空気が、蒸気発生装置１の外装体１０の空気吸込口１１から吸い込まれ、これが熱交換促進部材７の薄板１５間を通過することにより、次のようにして蒸気が発生する。
【００４２】
すなわち、熱交換促進部材７の連結部材１６に循環供給されている高温水ＨＷ２で連結部材１６自体が所定温度まで上昇させられると共に、この連結部材１６に固定されている薄板１５もその表面が所定温度まで上昇させられる。また、この温度上昇された薄板１５上に湯噴出管８から放散され下方に流下する温水ＨＷ１が、各薄板１５間を通過する前記空気を加温加湿して温度上昇させ、この空気の温度上昇に伴い蒸気圧差が生じて、放散された温水ＨＷ１の一部が蒸発して蒸気として発生することになる。この発生した蒸気が回転しているファン９による送風で、吹出流路１４から蒸気吹出口１２と吹出口５４を介してユニットバスルーム４１の洗い場４６内に吹き出される。
【００４３】
そして、蒸気がユニットバスルーム４１内に吹き出されると、ユニットバスルーム４１内の空気が加湿加温されてその温度が上昇し、この温度Ｔｉが室温センサ４０で検知（Ｓ４０３）され、この検知された室温Ｔｉが予めマイコンに記憶してある下限基準温度Ｔｄ以下か否かが判断（Ｓ４０４）される。この判断Ｓ４０４で「ＮＯ」の場合、すなわち室温Ｔｉが下限基準温度Ｔｄを超えてる場合は、検知した温度Ｔｉがマイコンに記憶してある上限基準温度Ｔｕ未満か否かが判断（Ｓ４０５）される。
【００４４】
判断Ｓ４０４で「ＹＥＳ」の場合、すなわち室温Ｔｉが下限基準温度Ｔｄに達していない場合は、循環ポンプ２８と給湯暖房機１９のポンプ２３を共にオン（Ｓ４０７）状態に維持して、蒸気発生装置１からの蒸気の発生（吹き出し）を続行させる。また、判断Ｓ４０５で「ＹＥＳ」の場合、すなわち室温Ｔｉが下限基準温度Ｔｄを超えかつ上限基準温度Ｔｕ未満の場合には、室温Ｔｉが所定温度範囲内にあると判定して循環ポンプ２８とポンプ２３の作動を共に停止させてオフ（Ｓ４０６）状態とさせる。この両ポンプ２８、２３のオフより、蒸気発生装置１からの蒸気の発生（吹き出し）が停止される。
【００４５】
そして、ステップＳ４０６、Ｓ４０７で両ポンプ２８、２３のオン・オフ状態が制御されると、前記判断Ｓ１０６に移り電源ＳＷがオフしたか否かが判断され、この判断Ｓ１０６で「ＮＯ」の場合はステップＳ４０３に戻り、再び室温Ｔｉを検知し、この検知温度Ｔｉに基づいて、前述したと同様に、循環ポンプ２８とポンプ２３の作動が制御される。つまり、検知した室温Ｔｉに応じて両ポンプ２８、２３がオン・オフ制御されて、ユニットバスルーム４１内の温度が所定温度に維持されることになる。
【００４６】
このようにして蒸気温度が制御され、入浴者がユニットバスルーム４１から出ようとして電源ＳＷをオフすると、判断Ｓ１０６で「ＹＥＳ」となり前記停止処理Ｓ１０７が実行される。この停止処理Ｓ１０７は、図８に示すように、先ず、給湯暖房機１９のポンプ２３等をオフすることにより停止（Ｓ５０１）状態とし、湯循環手段３内の温水ＨＷ１の温度をドレンパン１３に配置した水温センサ３８で検知（Ｓ５０２）し、この検知温度Ｔ２と制御回路３５のマイコンに予め記憶してある排水基準温度Ｔｓとを比較して、検知温度Ｔ２が排水基準温度Ｔｓ以下か否かが判断（Ｓ５０３）される。
【００４７】
この判断Ｓ５０３は「ＹＥＳ」になるまで繰り返され、所定時間経過することで温水ＨＷ１の検知温度Ｔ２が排水基準温度Ｔｓ以下に下がると、判断Ｓ５０３で「ＹＥＳ」となり、循環ポンプ２８を停止（Ｓ５０４）させ、この循環ポンプ２８の停止と略同時にファン９を停止（Ｓ５０５）させる。
【００４８】
そして、循環ポンプ２８とファン９の停止後に、排水電磁弁３４を作動させて開き（Ｓ５０６）、所定時間ｔ２が経過したか否かが判断（Ｓ５０７）される。この所定時間ｔ２とは、湯循環手段３内の温水ＨＷ１を略全て排水し得るように予め設定した時間であり、この判断Ｓ５０７で「ＹＥＳ」となった時点で、湯循環手段３内の温水ＨＷ１が、排水手段５の外部排水口３２から蒸気発生装置１の外部である例えばユニットバスルーム４１の排水孔等に排水される。
【００４９】
この排水時に、排水される温水ＨＷ１の温度が排水基準温度Ｔｓ以下になっていることから、排水時の安全性が確保されると共に、配管３３や外部配管等の排水管の熱による疲労をも防止することができる。また、この停止処理Ｓ１０７が電源ＳＷがオフされた後に必ず実行されることから、蒸気発生装置１の使用後にドレンパン１３内等に蒸気発生に使用した温水ＨＷ１が残留することがなくなり、次に蒸気発生装置１を使用する際に常に清潔な状態での温水ＨＷ１を使用できることになる。
【００５０】
なお、以上のフローチャートは一例であって、例えば図９に示すような、ミスト量やスチーム量等の蒸気の量を制御するフローを追加することもできる。すなわち、例えば前記蒸気温度制御Ｓ１０５中において、循環ポンプ２８の電流値Ｉｉを検知（Ｓ７０１）し、この検知電流値Ｉｉと予めマイコンに設定した基準電流値Ｉｓを比較して、検知電流値Ｉｉが基準電流値Ｉｓ以上か否かが判断（Ｓ７０２）される。
【００５１】
そして、この判断Ｓ７０２で「ＹＥＳ」の場合、すなわち検知電流値Ｉｉが基準電流値Ｉｓより大きい場合は、循環湯量が多くて蒸気量が多いものと判定して、制御回路３５によって電源回路３６から循環ポンプ２８に供給される電流値を減少（Ｓ７０３）させ、循環ポンプ２８の吐出能力、つまり循環湯量を減少させる。この循環湯量の減少によって蒸気発生装置１から発生する蒸気の量が少なくなる。
【００５２】
一方、判断Ｓ７０２で「ＮＯ」の場合、すなわち検知電流値Ｉｉが基準電流値Ｉｓより小さい場合は、循環湯量が少なくて蒸気量が少ないものと判定して、制御回路３５によって電源回路３６から循環ポンプ２８に供給される電流値を増加（Ｓ７０４）させ、循環ポンプ２８の吐出能力、つまり循環湯量を増加させる。この循環湯量の増加によって蒸気発生装置１から発生する蒸気の量が多くなる。
【００５３】
つまり、蒸気発生装置１から発生する蒸気の量が湯噴出管８から熱交換促進部材７上に放散される温水ＨＷ１の量（温度）に影響されることから、この湯量を循環ポンプ２８の作動電流値で制御（調整）するようにしたものである。なお、湯循環手段３内における湯量の制御は、循環ポンプ２８の作動電流値による制御に限らず、例えば循環ポンプ２８の作動電圧あるいは作動周波数（駆動モータの回転数）等の電気的特性値によっても制御することができる。また、湯循環手段３内に図示ない流量センサを配置し、この流量センサの検知流量に基づき循環ポンプ２８の各電気的特性値を制御することで行うこともできる。
【００５４】
また、上記のフローチャートにおいては、水等供給処理Ｓ１０３の後に高温水循環処理Ｓ１０４を行うようにしたが、例えば図１０（ａ）に示すように、高温水循環処理Ｓ１０４を行った後に水等供給処理Ｓ１０３を行ってもよいし、あるいは図１０（ｂ）に示すように、水等供給処理Ｓ１０３と高温水循環処理Ｓ１０５を併行して行うこともできる。
【００５５】
さらに、上記のフローチャートにおいては、電源ＳＷがオンした後の水等供給処理Ｓ１０３でドレンパン１３内の水位を水位センサ３９で検知することにより、温水ＨＷ１の循環湯量を所定に制御したが、蒸気発生装置１の使用中に、循環する温水ＨＷ１が蒸発することでその湯量が所定量まで減少した場合には、例えば図１１に示すフローによって水等供給手段４で適宜に水等Ｗを補給することができる。
【００５６】
すなわち、ドレンパン１３に配置した前記水位センサ３９の水位Ｈｉが逐次検知され（Ｓ８０１）、この検知された水位Ｈｉが予めマイコンに記憶してある下限基準水位Ｈｄ以下か否かが判断（Ｓ８０２）される。この判断Ｓ８０２で「ＮＯ」の場合、すなわち水位Ｈｉが下限基準水位Ｈｄを超えてる場合は、検知した水位Ｈｉがマイコンに記憶してある上限基準水位Ｈｕ未満か否かが判断（Ｓ８０３）される。
【００５７】
判断Ｓ８０２で「ＹＥＳ」の場合、すなわち水位Ｈｉが下限基準水位Ｈｄに達していない場合は、給水電磁弁３１を開（Ｓ８０５）として、水等供給源２９から水等Ｗをドレンパン１３に補給する。また、判断Ｓ８０３で「ＹＥＳ」の場合、すなわち水位Ｈｉが下限基準水位Ｈｄを超えかつ上限基準水位Ｈｕ未満の場合には、検知水位Ｈｉが所定範囲内にあると判定して給水電磁弁３１を閉じる（Ｓ８０４）。これにより、湯循環手段３内の温水ＨＷ１の湯量が下限基準水位Ｈｄ以下になった場合に、水等Ｗが上限基準水位Ｈｕを超えない範囲で自動的に補給され、湯循環手段３内の温水ＨＷ１が蒸気を安定して発生させ得る所定量に維持されることになる。
【００５８】
なお、この湯循環手段３内への水等Ｗの補給制御は、ドレンパン１３の水位の検知に限らず、例えば前述した湯循環手段３内の流量を検知する流量センサの検知信号に基づいて行うこともできるし、循環湯量の変化による循環ポンプ２８の電流値や電圧値等の電気的特性値の変化を検知し、これらの検知値に基づいて水等Ｗの補給制御を行うこともできる。
【００５９】
また、この水等Ｗの補給制御は、ドレンパン１３に水温センサ３８が配置されていることから、湯循環手段３内の湯量とその水温の関係を予め求めておくことで、水温センサ３８の検知温度に基づいて行うこともできる。すなわち、例えば前記蒸気温度制御Ｓ１０５中において、水温センサ３８でドレンパン１３内の温水ＨＷ１の水温を逐次検知し、この検知温度を予め設定した１つ（もしくは複数）の基準値と比較し、その比較結果に基づいて給水電磁弁３１を開閉させ、湯循環手段３内に所定温度の水等Ｗを補給して温水ＨＷ１の温度を制御する。
【００６０】
このようにすれば、水温センサ３８の有効活用を図りつつ水等Ｗの補給制御を行うことができると共に、湯循環手段３内を循環する温水ＨＷ１の温度を、常時蒸気が発生し易い所定温度に設定できることになり、特に比較される基準値を外気等に応じて設定すれば、季節等による蒸気の発生状態のバラツキを解消できることになる。
【００６１】
また、上記のフローチャートにおいて、判断Ｓ４０４、Ｓ４０５と判断Ｓ８０２、Ｓ８０３における基準値としての上限基準値と下限基準値は、中間の基準値に対して上下一定もしくは上下異なる所定値により上限基準値や下限基準値を設定してもよいし、２つの基準値を使用することなく一つ基準値で判断してもよい。また、判断Ｓ２０４、Ｓ５０３、Ｓ７０２のように一つの基準値で判断する場合に、上下二つの基準値で判断することもできる。
【００６２】
またさらに、ステップＳ２０３、Ｓ２０４における水位検知判断を、予め設定した時間による判断で行うこともできるし、ステップＳ５０２、Ｓ５０３における温水ＨＷ１の温度検知判断も、予め設定した時間による判断で行うこともできる。また、上記のフローチャートにおいては、電源ＳＷのオフ後の停止処理Ｓ１０７によって湯循環手段３内の温水ＨＷ１を外部に排水するようにしたが、例えば電源ＳＷがオンした際に、先ず湯循環手段３内に残留している温水ＨＷ１を外部に排水する排水処理を行い、この排水処理の後に水等供給処理Ｓ１０２を行うことで、湯循環手段３内の温水ＨＷ１に一層の清潔性を確保することもできる。
【００６３】
このように、上記実施例の蒸気発生装置１にあっては、蒸気発生手段２の熱交換促進部材７の上部に配置される湯噴出管８から放散され下部に流下する温水ＨＷ１を、熱交換促進部材７の下部に配置したドレンパン１３で回収すると共に、このドレンパン１３と湯噴出管８との間に設けた配管２７や循環ポンプ２８で湯噴出管８に再び戻すことができるため、蒸気発生に使用される温水ＨＷ１を従来のように外部にそのまま排水することがなくなり、温水ＨＷ１の再利用が図れて水資源の有効活用が可能になる。この水の有効活用によって、一般家庭等において、水道料金の低減化や給湯暖房機１９の燃料代の低減化を図ることができる。
【００６４】
また、水等供給手段４から供給（補給）された水等Ｗを湯循環手段３によって湯噴出管８に再び戻すことで、温水ＨＷ１の流路と熱交換促進部材７の連結部材１６内に循環供給される高温水ＨＷ２の流路とが完全に別流路を形成しているため、温水ＨＷ１と高温水ＨＷ２をそれぞれ個別に制御できて、各温水ＨＷ１、ＨＷ２の温度を高精度に維持でき、例えば冬季のユニットバスルーム４１内の温度が低い場合等であっても、その温度に応じた温水ＨＷ１等が容易に得られて、季節等に係わらず蒸気の安定した発生状態を得ることができる。その結果、例えば蒸気による暖まり方の程度の認識違いに基づくユーザーの誤解等の発生を防止することが可能になる。
【００６５】
さらに、湯循環手段３がドレンパン１３等の湯回収部材、循環ポンプ２８、水等供給手段４及び排水手段５等によって形成され、例えば従来の湯噴出管や連結部材に対する配管構造を変更することで対応できるため、湯循環手段３自体の構成の簡素化を図ることができると共に、従来製品に大きな設計変更を行うことなく対応できる等、安価な蒸気発生装置１を得ることが可能になる。
【００６６】
また、湯噴出管８による温水ＨＷ１の放散を制御回路３５で制御できると共に、高温水ＨＷ２の循環が制御回路２５によって制御できるため、連結部材１６に高温水ＨＷ２を循環供給して湯噴出管８からは温水ＨＷ１を噴射させない状態に設定することでドライな加温運転が行え、また連結部材１６に高温水ＨＷ２を循環供給して湯噴出管８から温水ＨＷ１を放散することで加温加湿運転を行うことができると共に、これらの切り換えを容易に行うことができて、蒸気発生装置１の使い勝手の向上を図ることができる。
【００６７】
特に、この蒸気発生装置１をユニットバスルーム４１内に設置し、この蒸気発生装置１や給湯暖房機１９と例えばユニットバスルーム４１の天井パネル４９に配置される浴室換気扇５１とを、制御回路３５、２５等により関連付けて作動させれば、ユニットバスルーム４１内にミスト、スチーム、ドライの暖房状態、サウナ状態、あるいは衣類等の乾燥状態等を容易に創出することができて、ユニットバスルーム４１の使用に係わる付加価値を大幅に高めることが可能になる。
【００６８】
また、蒸気発生手段２及び湯循環手段３を制御する制御回路３５と、蒸気発生手段２の連結部材１６に高温水ＨＷ２を供給する給湯暖房機１９の制御回路２５が双方向通信回線４２によって接続されているため、例えば制御回路３５で給湯暖房機１９を制御することができて、制御自体の重複を省いてその構成の簡略化を図り、蒸気発生装置１を一層コスト安価に形成することができると共に、例えば蒸気発生装置１の電源を給湯暖房機１９から配線すること等により、配線構造の簡素化が図れたり蒸気発生装置１の使い勝手の一層の向上を図ることが可能になる。
【００６９】
またさらに、制御手段６によって、電源ＳＷとしてのミストスイッチ等がオンした際に、所定時間ファン９を作動させずに湯循環手段３のみを作動させることができるため、ミストスイッチオン時の冷風の吹出しを防止することができると共に、湯循環手段３内を循環する温水ＨＷ１を冷風で冷やすことがなくなり温水ＨＷ１の速温化が可能になり、かつ所定時間温水ＨＷ１を循環させることで、水等Ｗに含まれる雑菌を殺菌した状態で放散できて、清潔な蒸気をユニットバスルーム４１内に吹き出すことが可能になる。
【００７０】
また、ミストスイッチ等がオフした際に、制御手段６によって循環する温水ＨＷ１が所定温度以下になるまで排水手段５による排水が禁止されるため、所定温度以上の温水ＨＷ１の外部への排水が確実に防止されて、排水に係わる安全性の十分な確保を図ることができると共に、蒸気発生装置１の使用後に湯循環手段３内における温水ＨＷ１の滞留が防止されて、雑菌の増殖のない常に清潔な温水ＨＷ１を使用することができる。
【００７１】
また、蒸気の発生量が制御手段６による循環湯量の制御で行われるため、制御自体が簡単になると共に、所定量の蒸気を安定かつ確実に発生させることができると共に、制御手段６が水位センサ３９等の検知値に基づいて水等供給手段４による水等Ｗの供給量を制御し得るため、湯循環手段３内における温水ＨＷ１の循環量を所定に維持することができて、常に所定量で所定温度の温水ＨＷ１を湯噴出管８から熱交換促進部材７上に放散することができ、蒸気の発生状態を一層安定させることができる。
【００７２】
これらのことから、所望形態の蒸気を容易に発生させかつ使い勝手に優れた蒸気発生装置１を得ることが可能になり、特に多様化が要求されるユニットバスルーム４１に適用することで、入浴の快適性と使い勝手の向上を同時に図ること等ができる。
【００７３】
なお、上記実施例においては水等供給手段４として、水等供給源２９に接続された給水電磁弁３１を有する配管３３を使用したが、本発明はこれに限定されず、例えば給湯暖房機１９の出口２０ｂに給湯電磁弁を配置した配管を接続し、この配管の開口部をドレンパン１３上に位置させて、給湯暖房機１９の高温水ＨＷ２や温水を前記温水ＨＷ１として使用することもできる。この場合は、ミストＳＷのオンと略同時に所定温度の温水ＨＷ１を湯循環手段３内に循環させることができて、蒸気をより素早く発生させること（速暖化）が可能になる。
【００７４】
また、上記実施例においては、湯循環手段３の配管２７をドレンパン１３と湯噴出管８との間に設けることで、熱交換促進部材７から流下する温水ＨＷ１を該配管２７で直接湯噴出管８に戻す構成としたが、例えば配管２７の途中に給湯暖房機１９や他の給湯機等を介在させて、熱交換促進部材７から流下する温水ＨＷ１を加熱等しながら間接的に湯噴出管８に戻す構成とすることもできる。
【００７５】
さらに、上記実施例におけるユニットバスルーム４１の形態や、蒸気発生装置１の外装体１０の形状、熱交換促進部材７自体の形状や湯噴出管８の配置関係等は一例であって、例えば湯噴出管８を複数のノズル形式で構成し、これをその前面が略垂直に配置された熱交換促進部材７の上部に所定距離隔てて配置したり、熱交換促進部材７の形状を比較的幅の狭い横長や縦長に形成する等、本発明に係わる各発明の要旨を逸脱しない範囲において適宜に変更することができる。
【００７６】
【発明の効果】
以上詳述したように、請求項１に記載の発明によれば、湯噴出管から熱交換促進部材に放散されることで蒸気を発生させた湯が、湯循環手段によって再び湯噴出管に直接戻されてその湯噴出口から熱交換促進部材上に再放散されるため、湯噴出管で使用される湯を排水する必要がなくなり水の再利用を図ることができると共に、湯循環手段を循環する湯の個別制御が可能となるため、季節等に係わらず安定した蒸気発生状態を得ることができる。また、湯循環手段がドレンパン等の湯回収部材、循環ポンプ、水等供給手段及び排水手段によって形成されるため、湯循環手段自体の構成の簡素化や湯の確実な循環動作を得ることができると共に、蒸気の発生量が制御手段による循環湯量の調整で行われるため、制御自体の構成が簡単になると共に、所定量の蒸気を安定かつ確実に発生させることができる。
【００７７】
また、請求項２に記載の発明によれば、請求項１に記載の発明の効果と同様に、水の再利用や季節等に係わらず安定した蒸気発生状態、湯循環手段自体の構成の簡素化、あるいは湯の確実な循環動作や排水動作を得ることができると共に、制御手段が検知手段の検知結果に基づいて水等供給手段による水もしくは湯の補給量を制御するため、湯循環手段における湯の循環量を所定に維持することができ、かつ、検知手段が湯循環手段内の循環湯量、循環ポンプの電気的特性値、湯回収部材の水位の少なくとも一つの値を検知するため、蒸気の発生に関与するファクターを効果的に検知できて、蒸気の発生状態をより一層安定させることができる。
【００８０】
また、請求項３に記載の発明によれば、請求項１または２に記載の発明の効果に加え、蒸気発生手段及び湯循環手段と、蒸気発生手段の連結部材に高温水を供給する高温水供給手段との制御が関連付けられて行われるため、制御自体の重複がなくなりその構成が簡素化されてコスト安価に形成することができる。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】本発明に係わる蒸気発生装置の一実施例の基本的構成を示す概念図
【図２】同その概略縦断面図
【図３】同その熱交換促進部材の斜視図
【図４】同その浴室への設置状態を示す斜視図
【図５】同その制御系のブロック図
【図６】同その基本的動作の一例を示すフローチャート
【図７】同その具体的動作を示すフローチャート
【図８】同その具体的動作を示す他のフローチャート
【図９】同その具体的動作の変形例を示すフローチャート
【図１０】同その具体的動作の他の変形例を示すフローチャート
【図１１】同その具体的動作のさらに他の変形例を示すフローチャート
【図１２】従来の蒸気発生装置の使用形態を示す概念図
【図１３】従来の蒸気発生装置の他の使用形態を示す概念図
【符号の説明】
１・・・・・・・・・蒸気発生装置
２・・・・・・・・・蒸気発生手段
３・・・・・・・・・湯循環手段
４・・・・・・・・・水等供給手段
５・・・・・・・・・排水手段
６・・・・・・・・・制御手段
７・・・・・・・・・熱交換促進部材
８・・・・・・・・・湯噴出管
８ａ・・・・・・・・湯噴出口
９・・・・・・・・・ファン
１１・・・・・・・・空気吸込口
１２・・・・・・・・蒸気吹出口
１３・・・・・・・・ドレンパン
１３ａ・・・・・・・排出口
１５・・・・・・・・薄板
１６・・・・・・・・連結部材
１９・・・・・・・・給湯暖房機
２０・・・・・・・・高温水循環回路
２３・・・・・・・・ポンプ
２５・・・・・・・・制御回路
２７・・・・・・・・配管
２８・・・・・・・・循環ポンプ
２９・・・・・・・・水等供給源
３５・・・・・・・・制御回路
３６・・・・・・・・電源回路
３７・・・・・・・・リモコン
４１・・・・・・・・ユニットバスルーム
４２・・・・・・・・双方向通信回線
４６・・・・・・・・洗い場
４７・・・・・・・・カウンタ[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  The present invention relates to a steam generator that is installed in, for example, a bathroom of a general household and can generate steam in the bathroom.
[0002]
[Prior art]
  Conventionally, a steam generator installed in a bathroom is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent No. 2871340 or Japanese Patent No. 2773014. The steam generator disclosed in the former (Japanese Patent No. 2871340) includes a hot water jet pipe having a plurality of hot water outlets, a heat exchange facilitating member and a fan inside an exterior body having a steam outlet and an air suction port, respectively. It arrange | positions, a vapor | steam is produced | generated by dissipating hot water from the hot water jet outlet of a hot water jet pipe to a heat exchange acceleration | stimulation member, and this steam is blown off from a steam blower outlet by rotation of a fan.
[0003]
  As shown in FIG. 12, the steam generator 101 generally connects a hot water discharge pipe 103 to a hot water supply port 102 a of a hot water supply apparatus 102 having no hot water circulation circuit via a pipe 104. Thus, the hot water diffused from the hot water jet pipe 103 heats and humidifies the air passing between the parallel thin plates 107a of the heat exchange promoting member 107 by the operation of the fan 106, and the temperature of the air rises. As a result, a difference in vapor pressure is generated, and a part of the hot water is evaporated to become steam, and the interior of the bathroom is heated and humidified by this steam.
[0004]
  The steam generator disclosed in the latter (Japanese Patent No. 2773014) includes a hot water jet pipe having a plurality of hot water jets, a heat exchange promoting member, Steam is provided by disposing hot water from the hot water outlet of the hot water discharge pipe to the heat exchange promoting member and supplying high temperature water to the inside of the pipe-like connecting member connecting the thin plates of the heat exchange promoting member. This steam is blown out from the steam outlet by rotation of the fan.
[0005]
  As shown in FIG. 13, this steam generator 101 generally connects a hot water outlet pipe 103 to a hot water outlet 102a of a hot water heater 102 having a hot water circulation circuit 102b via a pipe 104, and hot water heater. It is installed by connecting both ends of the connecting member 107b of the heat exchange promoting member 107 to the outlet and inlet of the hot water circulation circuit 102b of the machine 102 via the pipe 108. Thereby, steam is generated by the heat of the hot water diffused from the hot water jet pipe 103 to the heat exchange promoting member 107 and the hot water flowing through the connecting member 107b in the same manner as in the former steam generator 101, thereby heating and humidifying the bathroom. The hot water is circulated and supplied into the connecting member 107b without operating the hot water from the hot water jet pipe 103, and the fan 106 is operated to heat and heat the bathroom without humidifying it. It has become.
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
  However, in these steam generators 101, hot water that is diffused from the hot water jet pipe 103 between the thin plates 107 a of the heat exchange promoting member 107 and flows downward is disposed below the heat exchange promoting member 107. Since drainage is received by the drain pan 109 and drained from the hot water outlet provided in the drain pan 109 to the drainage channel of the bathroom, for example, through the drain pipe 110, the hot water (water) supplied to the hot water jet pipe 103 is effectively used. This is difficult, and is not preferable in terms of economy and energy saving.
[0007]
  Moreover, since the hot water of a hot water heater or a hot water heater (referred to as the hot water heater 102 or the like) is directly used for generating steam, the following problems are also caused. That is, in these steam generators 101, for example, it is necessary to supply high-temperature water of 60 ° C. or higher to the hot water jet pipe 103. It may be inappropriate as the hot water temperature of the hot water heater 102 used in other kitchens and toilets. And this means that the temperature of the high-temperature water supplied from the hot water heater 102 or the like needs to be further raised when trying to heat and humidify the interior of the bathroom to a predetermined temperature, especially when the temperature in the bathroom is low, such as in winter. There is a tendency to become noticeable.
[0008]
  In addition, since it is difficult to individually operate the water heater 102 or the like according to the steam generator 101, the degree of steam generation is likely to vary depending on the hot water temperature setting of the water heater 102 or the temperature in the bathroom and the season. Nevertheless, it becomes difficult to obtain a stable generation state of steam.
[0009]
  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to reuse the hot water diffused from the hot water jet pipe to the heat exchange promoting member to effectively use the water, and the hot water jet pipe. An object of the present invention is to provide a steam generator capable of obtaining a stable steam generation state and the like by separately controlling hot water diffused from hot water such as a water heater.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  In order to achieve this object, the invention according to claim 1 of the present invention generates steam by dissipating hot water at a predetermined temperature from the hot water outlet of the hot water jet pipe to the heat exchange promoting member having heating means. Steam generating means that blows out the steam from the steam outlet by the operation of the fan, and recovers hot water that has been diffused from the hot water jet pipe of the steam generating means and has contacted the heat exchange promoting member, and is collected in the hot water jet pipeDirectlyA hot water circulating means for returning, a control means for controlling the operation of the steam generating means and the hot water circulating means, and the hot water circulating means for recovering hot water in contact with the heat exchange promoting member, A circulation pump disposed between the discharge port of the hot water recovery member and the hot water jet pipe, water supply means for supplying water or hot water to the circulation flow path by the circulation pump, and the circulating hot water are drained to the outside. Drainage means to obtain,The control means controls the amount of steam generated from the steam generation means by controlling the electrical characteristic value of the circulation pump in the hot water circulation means to adjust the circulation amount of the hot water.It is characterized by that.
[0011]
  By configuring in this way, the hot water dissipated from the outlet of the hot water jet pipe of the steam generating means to the heat exchange promoting member is partly converted into steam by contacting the heat exchange promoting member and the rotation of the fan. The remaining hot water is blown into the hot water jet pipe again by hot water circulation means.DirectlyIt is returned and re-dissipated from the hot water jet onto the heat exchange promoting member. For this reason, it is not necessary to drain the hot water used in the hot water jet pipe, and the water can be reused, and the individual control of the hot water in the hot water circulating means can be easily performed, so that a stable steam generation state can be obtained. In addition, since the hot water circulation means is formed by the hot water collecting member such as a drain pan, the circulation pump, the water supply means and the drainage means, the structure of the hot water circulation means is simplified, and reliable hot water circulation operation and drainage operation are obtained. AsSince the amount of steam generated is adjusted by adjusting the amount of hot water in the hot water circulation means, the control itself is simplified, and a stable and reliable generation state of a predetermined amount of steam is obtained.
[0012]
  The invention according to claim 2 generates steam by dissipating hot water at a predetermined temperature from the hot water outlet of the hot water jet pipe to the heat exchange promoting member having heating means, and the steam is generated by operating the fan. Steam generating means that blows out from the steam outlet, and recovers hot water that has diffused from the hot water jet pipe of the steam generating means and has contacted the heat exchange promoting member to the hot water jet pipe.DirectlyA hot water circulating means for returning, a control means for controlling the operation of the steam generating means and the hot water circulating means, and the hot water circulating means for recovering hot water in contact with the heat exchange promoting member, A circulation pump disposed between the discharge port of the hot water recovery member and the hot water jet pipe, water supply means for supplying water or hot water to the circulation flow path by the circulation pump, and the circulating hot water are drained to the outside. Drainage means to obtain,The control means supplies the water or the like based on a detection result of a detection means for detecting at least one value of a circulating hot water amount in the hot water circulation means, an electrical characteristic value of the circulation pump, and a water level of the hot water recovery member. The amount of hot water circulating in the hot water circulating means is maintained at a predetermined level by controlling the amount of water or hot water supplied by the means.It is characterized by that.By configuring in this way, for example, the amount of hot water flowing through the circulation channel of the hot water circulation means is detected by the detection means, and the amount of hot water replenished from the supply means such as water to the circulation channel can be controlled based on this detection result. The amount of hot water circulating in the hot water circulating means can be maintained at a predetermined level, and the state of steam generation can be further stabilized.
[0015]
  Also,Claim 3In the invention described in the item 1, the control unit performs control of the steam generation unit and the hot water circulation unit in association with the high temperature water supply unit that supplies the high temperature water to the connecting member of the steam generation unit. With this configuration, the control of the steam generation means and the hot water circulation means and the control of the high-temperature water supply means such as a water heater are related by the control means, so the control itself can be simplified and formed at low cost. In particular, by supplying power from the steam generation means or the like from the high temperature water supply means, the wiring can be simplified and the operability on the steam generation means side can be improved.
[0016]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
  FIGS. 1-8 shows one Example of the steam generator concerning this invention, FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram which shows the basic composition, FIG. 2 is the schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view, FIG. 3 is a heat exchange acceleration | stimulation member. FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view showing the installation state of the steam generator in the bathroom, FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the control system, and FIGS. 6 to 8 are flowcharts showing an example of the operation.
[0017]
  In FIG. 1, a steam generator 1 includes a steam generator 2, a hot water circulating means 3 for circulating hot water (hot water HW 1) used in the steam generating means 2, and water or hot water (water Water supply means 4 for supplying (supplementing) water), drainage means 5 for draining hot water HW1 in the hot water circulation means 3, and control means 6 for controlling them.
[0018]
  The steam generating means 2 includes a heat exchange promoting member 7, a hot water jet pipe 8 that diffuses hot water to the heat exchange promoting member 7, a fan 9 that blows the generated steam and the like in a predetermined direction, and the like, which will be described later. In this way, steam is generated by the hot water HW1 diffused from the hot water jet pipe 8 to the heat exchange promoting member 7, and this steam is blown (blowed out) in a predetermined direction by the fan 9 that is rotated by the control signal of the control means 6. Yes.
[0019]
  As shown in FIG. 2, the steam generator 1 has an exterior body 10 formed in a box shape with, for example, a resin, and an air suction port 11 is formed on the inclined front upper portion of the exterior body 10. At the same time, a steam outlet 12 is formed in the lower part. Further, inside the exterior body 10, the heat exchange promotion member 7 is disposed so as to face the air suction port 11 so as to be inclined substantially parallel to the front surface of the exterior body 10, and the front upper end of the heat exchange promotion member 7 is arranged. A hot water jet pipe 8 is disposed in the part, and a fan 9 is disposed in the lower part of the rear side of the heat exchange promoting member 7. In addition, a drain pan 13 as hot water recovery means, which will be described later, is provided in the lower part of the heat exchange promoting member 7, and an outlet flow path 14 is formed in the lower part of the fan 9 toward the steam outlet 12.
[0020]
  Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the heat exchange promoting member 7 of the steam generating means 2 includes a large number of thin plates 15 arranged substantially in parallel with a predetermined interval in the horizontal direction, and the thin plates 15 are arranged in the horizontal direction. And a pair of left and right support members 17 for supporting the connection member 16. The thin plate 15, the connecting member 16, and the support member 17 are formed of a metal material having high thermal conductivity such as stainless steel, aluminum, copper, etc., and the connecting member 16 is continuous from the upper part to the lower part. The two end openings are directed to the right side of FIG. 3, for example.
[0021]
  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, for example, an opening on the upper side of the connecting member 16 is connected to an outlet 20 b of the hot water heater 19 by a pipe 21, and the lower opening is connected to the hot water heater 19. The pipe 20 is directly connected to the inlet 20a. The hot water heater 19 includes a high-temperature water circulation circuit 20, a pump 23, a burner 24 and a control circuit 25, a hot water supply port (not shown), and the like, and the control circuit 25 controls the burner 24 and the pump 23. The hot water (referred to as high-temperature water HW2) having a predetermined temperature set in the above is circulated and supplied into the connecting member 16 of the heat exchange promoting member 7.
[0022]
  Further, the hot water jet pipe 8 of the steam generating means 2 is formed of a metal pipe such as stainless steel, and a plurality of hot water jet outlets 8a (see FIG. 2) are directed downward at predetermined intervals along the axial direction thereof. The hot water HW1 ejected from the hot water outlet 8a is disposed on the thin plate 15 at the upper end of the front surface of the heat exchange promoting member 7. The fan 9 is composed of, for example, a sirocco fan or the like. When the fan motor (not shown) rotates, the fan 9 rotates in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 2 and the steam generated from the heat exchange promoting member 7 is blown out as shown by arrow C. The air is blown through the path 14.
[0023]
  As shown in FIG. 1, the hot water circulation means 3 is arranged at the lower part of the heat exchange promoting member 7 and collects the drain pan 13 for collecting the hot water HW1 diffused by the promoting member 7, and the discharge port 13 a of the drain pan 13. And a circulating pump 28 connected in the middle of the pipe 27 between the hot water supply pipe 8b of the hot water jet pipe 8 and the circulation pump 28 is operated by a control signal of the control means 6 to collect in the drain pan 13. The warm water HW1 is returned to the hot water jet pipe 8 again.
[0024]
  The water supply means 4 has a water supply source 29 and a water supply electromagnetic valve 31 arranged in a pipe 30 between the water supply source 29 and the drain pan 13. By opening the water supply electromagnetic valve 31 with a control signal, a predetermined amount of water W or the like is supplied (supplemented) from the water supply source 29 into the drain pan 13. As the water supply source 29, tap water can be used as water W, or tap water can be used as it is, and hot water can be used as water W using the hot water heater 19 or the hot water outlet of various water heaters. Can also be used.
[0025]
  Further, the drainage means 5 includes a drainage electromagnetic valve 34 and the like disposed in a pipe 33 between the discharge port 13a of the drain pan 13 of the hot water circulation means 3 and the external drainage port 32, and the like. By opening the drain electromagnetic valve 34, the hot water HW1 in the drain pan 13 is drained to the outside.
[0026]
  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, the control means 6 includes a control circuit 35 having a microcomputer, a power supply circuit 36, a remote control 37, etc., and is provided on the drain pan 13 on the input side of the control circuit 35. The water temperature sensor 38 for detecting the temperature of the hot water HW1 in the drain pan 13, the water level sensor 39 for detecting the water level of the hot water HW1 in the drain pan 13, and the room temperature in the unit bathroom 41 where the steam generator 1 is installed is detected. A group of sensors such as a room temperature sensor 40 is connected, and a remote control 37 that can be operated by wire or wirelessly is connected. On the output side of the control circuit 35, the circulation pump 28 and various electromagnetic valves 31, 34 are connected. ing.
[0027]
  In addition, the control circuit 35 of the steam generator 1 is electrically connected to the control circuit 25 of the hot water heater 19 via, for example, a bidirectional communication line 42, and the power circuit 36 of the steam generator 1 is connected to the hot water heater 19. The power supply circuit 43 is connected so that power can be supplied. As a result, the remote controller 37 of the steam generator 1 can be used to turn on / off the hot water heater 19 and various operation operations, and the remote controller 44 of the hot water heater 19 can also be used to turn on the power of the steam generator 1. -It is configured to be able to turn off and perform various driving operations.
[0028]
  In addition, the connection structure of each control circuit 35 and 25 of the steam generator 1 and the hot water heater 19 is not limited to this example, and can be individually arranged and operated individually. As shown, a connection structure in which only the power supply circuits 36 and 43 are shared by the steam generator 1 and the hot water heater 19 can be employed.
[0029]
  And this steam generator 1 is installed in the counter 47 of the washing place 46 of the unit bathroom 41 which forms a bathroom, as shown, for example in FIG. The unit bathroom 41 in this case is formed in a substantially box shape by a wall panel 48, a ceiling panel 49, etc., and a bathtub 50 is installed on a waterproof pan inside and a washing place 46 is provided. The counter 47 is provided on the panel 48 side, and the bathroom ventilation fan 51 is provided on the ceiling panel 49.
[0030]
  Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the front wall 47b of the counter 47 composed of the upper wall 47a and the front wall 47b is attached to the upper wall 47a by a mounting bracket 53 or the like with the air introduction port 52 formed in the upper part thereof. In addition, an outlet 54 corresponding to the steam outlet 12 of the steam generator 1 is provided at the lower part thereof. The air introduced into the counter 47 from the air introduction port 52 as indicated by the arrow D is sucked into the device 1 from the air suction port 11 of the steam generation device 1 as indicated by the arrow B, and is also blown by the fan 9. Is blown out from the steam outlet 12 and the outlet 54 into the washing place 46 as shown by arrow C.
[0031]
  The arrangement structure of the steam generator 1 on the counter 47 is not limited to this example. For example, the front surface of the counter 47 in which the upper wall 47a and the front wall 47b are integrally formed without using the mounting bracket 53 or the like. An air inlet 52 is formed at a predetermined position of the wall 47b, and the steam generator 1 can be disposed inside the counter 47 behind the air inlet 52. The steam generator 1 is also connected to the bath apron 57 (see FIG. 4). Other appropriate arrangement structures can be adopted, such as arrangement in the inside of (). At this time, by installing the steam generator 1 inside the counter 47 and the bathtub apron 57, the apparatus 1 is not exposed in the unit bathroom 41, and the design value ( Deterioration in design) is prevented.
[0032]
  Next, an example of operation | movement of this steam generator 1 is demonstrated based on the flowchart of FIGS. These flowcharts are automatically executed by a program stored in advance in the microcomputer of the control circuit 35 or the like. FIG. 6 shows a basic flow of operation, which will be described first.
[0033]
  In FIG. 6, when the program is started (S101), it is determined whether or not the power supply SW that can operate the steam generator 1, such as a mist switch, provided in the remote controller 37 is turned on (S102). Determination S102 is repeated until “YES”. Then, when the bather operates the steam generator 1 and turns on the power supply SW to bathe the unit bathroom 41 in a heated and humidified state, “YES” is determined in the determination S102, and the circulation channel of the hot water circulation means 3 is determined. A water supply process (S103) for supplying water W into the inside (hereinafter referred to as the hot water circulation means 3) is performed.
[0034]
  And after this water supply process S103, while performing the high temperature water circulation process (S104) which circulates the high temperature water HW2 of the hot water heater 19 in the connection member 16 of the heat exchange promotion member 7, it is predetermined in the hot water circulation means 3. Steam temperature control (S105) is performed to circulate the hot water HW1 at a temperature to generate steam (including mist) and control the temperature of the generated steam. This steam temperature control S105 is repeatedly performed until the power source SW is turned off (S106). When the bather turns off the power source SW in order to leave the unit bathroom 41, the determination becomes S106 “YES”. Then, after the stop process (S107), the series of programs are terminated (S108).
[0035]
  In the water supply process S103, as shown in FIG. 7, first, the water supply electromagnetic valve 31 is opened by a control signal of the control circuit 35 (S201), and water W is supplied from the water supply source 29 into the drain pan 13. Thereafter, the circulation pump 28 is turned on by the control signal of the control circuit 35 (S202), and the water or the like W supplied into the drain pan 13 is circulated in the hot water circulation means 3. When water or the like W starts to circulate in the hot water circulation means 3, the water level in the drain pan 13 is detected by the water level sensor 39 (S203), and it is determined whether or not the value is a predetermined value (S204). This determination S204 is repeated until “YES” is reached. When the water level reaches a predetermined value, “YES” is set and the water supply electromagnetic valve 31 is closed by the control signal of the control circuit 35 (S205).
[0036]
  Thereby, the water supply process S103 is executed. While the water supply process S103 is executed, the circulation pump 28 is turned on, but the fan 9 is stopped, and the cold air generated by the rotation of the fan 9 is It is not blown out from the outlet 54 of the unit bathroom 41 into the washing place 46, and for example, when a bather turns on the power SW, it is reliably prevented from taking cold air.
[0037]
  Then, when the water supply process S103 is completed or when water is supplied up to a predetermined water level, the high-temperature water circulation process S104 is executed. In the hot water circulation process S104, the hot water heater 19 is operated (S301), the hot water of the high temperature water circuit 20 is set to the high temperature water HW2 by the control circuit 25, and the pump 23 is operated to This is done by circulating hot water HW2 in the connecting member 16.
[0038]
  Thereby, for example, high-temperature water HW2 of 80 ° C. or higher heated by the hot water heater 19 is supplied into the connecting member 16 of the heat exchange promoting member 7, and the temperature of the connecting member 16 is raised to a predetermined temperature. At this time, since the control circuit 35 of the steam generator 1 and the control circuit 25 of the hot water heater 19 are connected by the bidirectional communication line 42, the hot water heater 19 can be controlled by the remote control 37 of the steam generator 1. Thus, the operability can be improved.
[0039]
  When the high-temperature water circulation process S104 for circulating the high-temperature water HW2 in the connecting member 16 of the heat exchange promoting member 7 is executed, the water W circulating in the hot water circulation means 3 rises to a predetermined temperature as follows. Becomes warm water HW1. That is, when the high-temperature water HW2 is circulated through the connecting member 16, the temperature of the connecting member 16 and the thin plate 15 rises, and the temperature of water or the like W diffused on the thin plate 15 rises due to this temperature. , The temperature of water or the like W gradually rises to become hot water HW1 having a predetermined temperature corresponding to the temperature of the high-temperature water HW2.
[0040]
  The steam temperature control S105 is performed when the water W or the like becomes the hot water HW1. In the steam temperature control S105, for example, it is first determined whether or not a predetermined time t1 has elapsed from the start of turning on of the circulation pump 28 in step S202 (S401). The predetermined time t1 in this determination S104 is a time necessary for the water W supplied from the water supply means 4 into the hot water circulation means 3 to become hot water HW1 at a temperature at which steam can be generated. When the equal supply source 29 is normal tap water, the predetermined time is within one minute.
[0041]
  Then, when the predetermined time t1 has elapsed, “YES” is determined in S401, and the fan 9 is rotated by the control signal of the control circuit 35 (S402). Due to the rotation of the fan 9, for example, the air in the unit bathroom 41 introduced into the counter 47 from the air introduction port 52 of the front wall 47 b of the counter 47 from the air suction port 11 of the exterior body 10 of the steam generator 1. By being sucked and passing between the thin plates 15 of the heat exchange promoting member 7, steam is generated as follows.
[0042]
  That is, the connecting member 16 itself is raised to a predetermined temperature by the high temperature water HW2 circulated and supplied to the connecting member 16 of the heat exchange promoting member 7, and the surface of the thin plate 15 fixed to the connecting member 16 is also predetermined. Raised to temperature. Further, the hot water HW1 that is diffused from the hot water jet pipe 8 and flows down on the thin plate 15 whose temperature has been increased warms and humidifies the air that passes between the thin plates 15 to increase the temperature of the air. As a result, a difference in vapor pressure occurs, and part of the diffused hot water HW1 evaporates and is generated as vapor. The generated steam is blown by the rotating fan 9 and blown out from the blow-out flow path 14 into the washing place 46 of the unit bathroom 41 through the steam blow-out opening 12 and the blow-out opening 54.
[0043]
  When the steam is blown into the unit bathroom 41, the air in the unit bathroom 41 is humidified and heated to increase its temperature, and this temperature Ti is detected by the room temperature sensor 40 (S403). It is determined whether or not the room temperature Ti is equal to or lower than the lower limit reference temperature Td stored in advance in the microcomputer (S404). If “NO” in this determination S404, that is, if the room temperature Ti exceeds the lower limit reference temperature Td, it is determined whether or not the detected temperature Ti is lower than the upper limit reference temperature Tu stored in the microcomputer (S405). .
[0044]
  If “YES” in determination S404, that is, if the room temperature Ti has not reached the lower limit reference temperature Td, both the circulation pump 28 and the pump 23 of the hot water heater 19 are kept on (S407), and the steam generator The generation of steam from 1 (blowing) is continued. If “YES” in the determination S405, that is, if the room temperature Ti exceeds the lower reference temperature Td and is lower than the upper reference temperature Tu, it is determined that the room temperature Ti is within the predetermined temperature range, and the circulation pump 28 and the pump Both of the operations of No. 23 are stopped to be turned off (S406). The steam generation (blowing) from the steam generator 1 is stopped when both the pumps 28 and 23 are turned off.
[0045]
  When the on / off states of the pumps 28 and 23 are controlled in steps S406 and S407, the process proceeds to the determination S106 to determine whether or not the power SW is turned off. If the determination S106 is “NO”, Returning to step S403, the room temperature Ti is detected again, and the operations of the circulation pump 28 and the pump 23 are controlled based on the detected temperature Ti in the same manner as described above. That is, both pumps 28 and 23 are controlled to be turned on / off according to the detected room temperature Ti, and the temperature in the unit bathroom 41 is maintained at a predetermined temperature.
[0046]
  In this way, when the steam temperature is controlled and the bather turns off the power SW in order to leave the unit bathroom 41, “YES” is determined in the determination S106, and the stop process S107 is executed. In the stop process S107, as shown in FIG. 8, first, the pump 23 and the like of the hot water heater 19 are turned off to make a stop (S501) state, and the temperature of the hot water HW1 in the hot water circulation means 3 is arranged in the drain pan 13. The detected water temperature sensor 38 detects (S502), compares this detected temperature T2 with the drainage reference temperature Ts stored in advance in the microcomputer of the control circuit 35, and determines whether the detected temperature T2 is equal to or lower than the drainage reference temperature Ts. Determination is made (S503).
[0047]
  This determination S503 is repeated until “YES” is reached. If the detected temperature T2 of the hot water HW1 falls below the drainage reference temperature Ts after a predetermined time has elapsed, “YES” is determined in the determination S503, and the circulation pump 28 is stopped (S504). The fan 9 is stopped (S505) substantially simultaneously with the stop of the circulation pump 28.
[0048]
  Then, after the circulation pump 28 and the fan 9 are stopped, the drain electromagnetic valve 34 is operated and opened (S506), and it is determined whether or not a predetermined time t2 has passed (S507). The predetermined time t2 is a time set in advance so that substantially all of the hot water HW1 in the hot water circulation means 3 can be drained, and when the determination in S507 becomes “YES”, the hot water in the hot water circulation means 3 The HW 1 is drained from the external drain port 32 of the drainage means 5 to, for example, the drain hole of the unit bathroom 41 that is outside the steam generator 1.
[0049]
  During this drainage, the temperature of the warm water HW1 to be drained is equal to or lower than the drainage reference temperature Ts, so that safety during drainage is ensured and fatigue due to heat from the drainage pipes such as the piping 33 and the external piping is also prevented. Can be prevented. Further, since the stop process S107 is always executed after the power SW is turned off, the hot water HW1 used for generating steam does not remain in the drain pan 13 or the like after the use of the steam generator 1, and the steam When using the generator 1, the hot water HW1 in a clean state can always be used.
[0050]
  The above flowchart is an example, and a flow for controlling the amount of steam such as the amount of mist and steam as shown in FIG. 9 may be added. That is, for example, during the steam temperature control S105, the current value Ii of the circulation pump 28 is detected (S701), and the detected current value Ii is compared with the reference current value Is set in advance in the microcomputer to obtain the detected current value Ii. It is determined whether or not the current value is greater than or equal to the reference current value Is (S702).
[0051]
  If “YES” in this determination S702, that is, if the detected current value Ii is larger than the reference current value Is, it is determined that the amount of circulating hot water is large and the amount of steam is large, and the control circuit 35 determines from the power supply circuit 36. The current value supplied to the circulation pump 28 is decreased (S703), and the discharge capacity of the circulation pump 28, that is, the amount of circulating hot water is decreased. The amount of steam generated from the steam generator 1 is reduced by the reduction of the amount of circulating hot water.
[0052]
  On the other hand, if “NO” in determination S702, that is, if the detected current value Ii is smaller than the reference current value Is, it is determined that the amount of circulating hot water is small and the amount of steam is small, and the control circuit 35 circulates from the power supply circuit 36. The current value supplied to the pump 28 is increased (S704), and the discharge capacity of the circulation pump 28, that is, the amount of circulating hot water is increased. The increase in the amount of circulating hot water increases the amount of steam generated from the steam generator 1.
[0053]
  That is, since the amount of steam generated from the steam generator 1 is affected by the amount (temperature) of the hot water HW1 dissipated from the hot water jet pipe 8 onto the heat exchange promoting member 7, this hot water amount is operated by the circulation pump 28. It is controlled (adjusted) by the current value. The control of the amount of hot water in the hot water circulating means 3 is not limited to the control based on the operating current value of the circulating pump 28, but is based on, for example, an electrical characteristic value such as the operating voltage or operating frequency (rotation speed of the drive motor) of the circulating pump 28. Can also be controlled. Alternatively, a flow rate sensor (not shown) may be arranged in the hot water circulation means 3 and each electrical characteristic value of the circulation pump 28 may be controlled based on the flow rate detected by the flow rate sensor.
[0054]
  Further, in the above flow chart, the high temperature water circulation process S104 is performed after the water supply process S103. However, as shown in FIG. 10A, for example, the water supply process S103 is performed after the high temperature water circulation process S104 is performed. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 10B, the water supply process S103 and the high-temperature water circulation process S105 can be performed in parallel.
[0055]
  Further, in the above flowchart, the water level in the drain pan 13 is detected by the water level sensor 39 in the water supply process S103 after the power SW is turned on, so that the circulating hot water amount of the hot water HW1 is controlled to a predetermined level. When the circulating hot water HW1 evaporates during use of the apparatus 1 and the amount of hot water is reduced to a predetermined amount, water or the like is appropriately replenished with the water or the like supply means 4 according to the flow shown in FIG. Can do.
[0056]
  That is, the water level Hi of the water level sensor 39 arranged on the drain pan 13 is sequentially detected (S801), and it is determined whether or not the detected water level Hi is equal to or lower than the lower limit reference water level Hd stored in the microcomputer in advance (S802). The If “NO” in this determination S802, that is, if the water level Hi exceeds the lower limit reference water level Hd, it is determined whether or not the detected water level Hi is less than the upper limit reference water level Hu stored in the microcomputer (S803). .
[0057]
  If “YES” in the determination S802, that is, if the water level Hi has not reached the lower limit reference water level Hd, the water supply electromagnetic valve 31 is opened (S805), and water or the like W is supplied to the drain pan 13 from the water supply source 29 or the like. . If “YES” in the determination S803, that is, if the water level Hi exceeds the lower limit reference water level Hd and is lower than the upper limit reference water level Hu, it is determined that the detected water level Hi is within a predetermined range, and the water supply electromagnetic valve 31 is set. Close (S804). As a result, when the amount of hot water HW1 in the hot water circulation means 3 becomes equal to or lower than the lower limit reference water level Hd, water or the like W is automatically replenished within a range not exceeding the upper limit reference water level Hu. The hot water HW1 is maintained at a predetermined amount that can stably generate steam.
[0058]
  The replenishment control of the water W or the like into the hot water circulating means 3 is not limited to the detection of the water level of the drain pan 13, but is performed based on, for example, the detection signal of the flow sensor for detecting the flow rate in the hot water circulating means 3 described above. It is also possible to detect changes in electrical characteristic values such as the current value and voltage value of the circulating pump 28 due to changes in the amount of circulating hot water, and to perform replenishment control of water and the like W based on these detected values.
[0059]
  In addition, since the water temperature sensor 38 is disposed in the drain pan 13 for the replenishment control of the water W or the like, the water temperature sensor 38 detects the relationship between the amount of hot water in the hot water circulation means 3 and the water temperature in advance. It can also be done based on temperature. That is, for example, in the steam temperature control S105, the water temperature sensor 38 sequentially detects the water temperature of the hot water HW1 in the drain pan 13, and compares the detected temperature with one (or a plurality) preset reference values. Based on the result, the water supply electromagnetic valve 31 is opened and closed, and water or the like W at a predetermined temperature is supplied into the hot water circulation means 3 to control the temperature of the hot water HW1.
[0060]
  In this way, it is possible to control replenishment of water W etc. while effectively utilizing the water temperature sensor 38, and the temperature of the hot water HW1 circulating in the hot water circulating means 3 is set to a predetermined temperature at which steam is easily generated. In particular, if the reference value to be compared is set according to the outside air or the like, the variation in the state of steam generation due to the season or the like can be eliminated.
[0061]
  In the above flowchart, the upper limit reference value and the lower limit reference value as the reference values in the determinations S404 and S405 and the determinations S802 and S803 are the upper limit reference value and the lower limit depending on predetermined values that are constant up or down with respect to the intermediate reference value. A reference value may be set, or one reference value may be determined without using two reference values. Moreover, when judging with one reference value like judgment S204, S503, S702, it can also be judged with two upper and lower reference values.
[0062]
  Furthermore, the water level detection determination in steps S203 and S204 can be performed based on a predetermined time, and the temperature detection determination of the hot water HW1 in steps S502 and S503 can also be performed based on a predetermined time. . In the above flowchart, the hot water HW1 in the hot water circulation means 3 is drained to the outside by the stop process S107 after the power SW is turned off. For example, when the power SW is turned on, the hot water circulation means 3 is first turned on. The waste water treatment for draining the hot water HW1 remaining in the interior to the outside is performed, and the water supply processing S102 is performed after the waste water treatment, thereby ensuring further cleanliness for the warm water HW1 in the hot water circulation means 3. You can also.
[0063]
  As described above, in the steam generator 1 of the above embodiment, the hot water HW1 radiated from the hot water jet pipe 8 disposed on the upper part of the heat exchange promoting member 7 of the steam generating means 2 and flowing down to the lower part is subjected to heat exchange. Steam is generated because it can be recovered by the drain pan 13 disposed at the lower part of the accelerating member 7 and returned to the hot water jet pipe 8 by the piping 27 and the circulation pump 28 provided between the drain pan 13 and the hot water jet pipe 8. The hot water HW1 used for the water is not drained to the outside as in the prior art, and the hot water HW1 can be reused and water resources can be effectively used. By effective use of this water, it is possible to reduce water bills and fuel costs of the hot water heater 19 in ordinary households.
[0064]
  Further, the water W supplied (supplemented) from the water supply means 4 is returned to the hot water jet pipe 8 by the hot water circulation means 3, so that the hot water HW 1 and the heat exchange promoting member 7 are connected to the connection member 16. Since the flow path of the high-temperature water HW2 to be circulated forms a completely separate flow path, the hot water HW1 and the high-temperature water HW2 can be controlled individually, and the temperatures of the hot water HW1 and HW2 are maintained with high accuracy. For example, even when the temperature in the unit bathroom 41 in winter is low, the hot water HW1 corresponding to the temperature can be easily obtained, and a stable generation state of steam can be obtained regardless of the season. Can do. As a result, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of misunderstanding of the user based on, for example, a difference in recognition of the degree of warming by steam.
[0065]
  Further, the hot water circulation means 3 is formed by a hot water recovery member such as a drain pan 13, a circulation pump 28, a water supply means 4, a drainage means 5 and the like, for example, by changing the piping structure for a conventional hot water jet pipe or connecting member. Therefore, it is possible to simplify the configuration of the hot water circulation means 3 itself, and to obtain an inexpensive steam generator 1 that can cope with the conventional product without making a major design change.
[0066]
  Further, the diffusion of the hot water HW1 through the hot water jet pipe 8 can be controlled by the control circuit 35, and the circulation of the high temperature water HW2 can be controlled by the control circuit 25. Therefore, the hot water HW2 is circulated and supplied to the connecting member 16 to supply the hot water jet pipe 8 Is set to a state in which the hot water HW1 is not injected, and a dry heating operation can be performed. Further, the hot water HW1 is circulated and supplied to the connecting member 16 to dissipate the hot water HW1 from the hot water jet pipe 8, thereby heating and humidifying the operation. In addition, it is possible to easily switch between them, and it is possible to improve the usability of the steam generator 1.
[0067]
  In particular, the steam generator 1 is installed in the unit bathroom 41, and the steam generator 1, the hot water heater 19, and the bathroom ventilation fan 51 disposed on the ceiling panel 49 of the unit bathroom 41, for example, are connected to the control circuit 35. , 25, etc., the mist, steam, dry heating state, sauna state, dry state of clothes, etc. can be easily created in the unit bathroom 41. It is possible to greatly increase the added value related to the use of.
[0068]
  Further, a control circuit 35 for controlling the steam generating means 2 and the hot water circulating means 3 and a control circuit 25 for the hot water heater 19 for supplying the hot water HW2 to the connecting member 16 of the steam generating means 2 are connected by a bidirectional communication line 42. Therefore, for example, the hot water heater 19 can be controlled by the control circuit 35, the duplication of control itself can be omitted, the configuration can be simplified, and the steam generator 1 can be formed at a lower cost. In addition, for example, by wiring the power source of the steam generator 1 from the hot water heater 19, it is possible to simplify the wiring structure and further improve the usability of the steam generator 1.
[0069]
  Furthermore, when the mist switch or the like as the power source SW is turned on by the control means 6, only the hot water circulation means 3 can be operated without operating the fan 9 for a predetermined time. The hot water HW1 circulated in the hot water circulation means 3 can be prevented from being cooled with cold air, and the hot water HW1 can be quickly heated, and the hot water HW1 is circulated for a predetermined time, thereby preventing water and the like. The germs contained in W can be dissipated in a sterilized state, and clean steam can be blown into the unit bathroom 41.
[0070]
  In addition, when the mist switch or the like is turned off, drainage by the drainage means 5 is prohibited until the hot water HW1 circulated by the control means 6 becomes a predetermined temperature or less, so that the warm water HW1 above the predetermined temperature is surely drained to the outside. In addition to being able to ensure sufficient safety related to drainage, the hot water HW1 is prevented from staying in the hot water circulation means 3 after use of the steam generator 1, and is always clean with no proliferation of germs. Warm water HW1 can be used.
[0071]
  Further, since the amount of steam generated is controlled by the control of the amount of circulating hot water by the control means 6, the control itself is simplified, a predetermined amount of steam can be generated stably and reliably, and the control means 6 is provided with a water level sensor. Since the supply amount of water etc. W by the water supply means 4 can be controlled based on the detected value such as 39 etc., the circulation amount of the hot water HW1 in the hot water circulation means 3 can be maintained at a predetermined value, and always a predetermined amount Thus, the hot water HW1 having a predetermined temperature can be dissipated from the hot water ejection pipe 8 onto the heat exchange promoting member 7, and the generation state of steam can be further stabilized.
[0072]
  From these, it becomes possible to easily generate steam in a desired form and to obtain a steam generator 1 that is excellent in usability, and in particular, by applying to the unit bathroom 41 that requires diversification, It is possible to improve comfort and usability at the same time.
[0073]
  In addition, in the said Example, although the piping 33 which has the water supply electromagnetic valve 31 connected to the water supply sources 29 was used as the water supply means 4, this invention is not limited to this, For example, the hot water heater 19 It is also possible to connect a pipe provided with a hot water supply solenoid valve to the outlet 20b of the hot water supply, and to position the opening of this pipe on the drain pan 13 so that the hot water HW2 or hot water of the hot water heater 19 can be used as the hot water HW1. In this case, the hot water HW1 having a predetermined temperature can be circulated in the hot water circulation means 3 almost simultaneously with the mist SW being turned on, and steam can be generated more quickly (rapid warming).
[0074]
  In the above embodiment, the hot water circulating means 3 is provided with the pipe 27 between the drain pan 13 and the hot water jet pipe 8, so that the hot water HW 1 flowing down from the heat exchange promoting member 7 is directly fed through the hot water jet pipe through the pipe 27. However, the hot water jet pipe is indirectly heated while the hot water HW1 flowing down from the heat exchange promoting member 7 is heated by interposing the hot water heater 19 or other hot water heater in the middle of the pipe 27, for example. It can also be configured to return to 8.
[0075]
  Furthermore, the form of the unit bathroom 41 in the above embodiment, the shape of the outer casing 10 of the steam generator 1, the shape of the heat exchange promoting member 7 itself, the arrangement relationship of the hot water jet pipes 8, etc. are merely examples. The ejection pipe 8 is constituted by a plurality of nozzles, and is arranged at a predetermined distance above the heat exchange promoting member 7 whose front surface is arranged substantially vertically, or the shape of the heat exchange promoting member 7 is relatively wide. It can be appropriately changed within a range not departing from the gist of each invention according to the present invention, such as a narrow horizontally long or vertically long shape.
[0076]
【The invention's effect】
  As described in detail above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the hot water that has generated steam by being dissipated from the hot water jet pipe to the heat exchange promoting member is again returned to the hot water jet pipe by the hot water circulation means.DirectlySince it is returned and re-diffused from the hot water outlet onto the heat exchange facilitating member, it is not necessary to drain the hot water used in the hot water discharge pipe, and the water can be reused and the hot water circulation means is circulated. Since individual control of hot water is possible, a stable steam generation state can be obtained regardless of the season. Moreover, since the hot water circulation means is formed by a hot water recovery member such as a drain pan, a circulation pump, water supply means, and a drainage means, the structure of the hot water circulation means itself is simplified.In addition to providing reliable circulating operation of hot water, the amount of steam generated is adjusted by adjusting the amount of circulating hot water by the control means, so that the configuration of the control itself is simplified and a predetermined amount of steam is stably and reliably supplied. Can be generated.
[0077]
  Further, according to the invention described in claim 2, similarly to the effect of the invention described in claim 1, a stable steam generation state regardless of the reuse of water, season, etc., and the configuration of the hot water circulation means itself are simple. Or a reliable circulation and drainage of hot water,Since the control means controls the amount of water or hot water supplied by the water supply means based on the detection result of the detection means, the amount of hot water circulating in the hot water circulation means can be maintained at a predetermined level, and the detection means can In order to detect at least one of the amount of circulating hot water in the circulation means, the electrical characteristic value of the circulating pump, and the water level of the hot water recovery member, the factors involved in the generation of steam can be detected effectively, and the state of steam generation can be determined. It can be further stabilized.
[0080]
  Also,Claim 3According to the invention described inClaim 1 or 2In addition to the effects of the invention described in (2), since the control of the steam generation means and the hot water circulation means and the high temperature water supply means for supplying the high temperature water to the connection member of the steam generation means is performed in association with each other, the control itself is duplicated. The structure can be simplified and the cost can be reduced.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing the basic configuration of an embodiment of a steam generator according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view thereof.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the heat exchange promoting member.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the installation state in the bathroom
FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the control system.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the basic operation thereof.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the specific operation thereof.
FIG. 8 is another flowchart showing the specific operation of the same.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the specific operation.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing another modified example of the specific operation.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing still another modified example of the specific operation.
FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram showing how the conventional steam generator is used.
FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram showing another usage pattern of a conventional steam generator.
[Explanation of symbols]
  1 .... Steam generator
  2 ..... Steam generation means
  3 ..... Hot water circulation means
  4 ... Supply means such as water
  5 .... Drainage means
  6 ..... Control means
  ・・・・・・・・・・・・・ Heat exchange promotion
  8 .... Hot water jet pipe
  8a ... Hot water spout
  9 ・・・・・・・・・ Fan
  11 ... Air inlet
  12 ... Steam outlet
  13 ... Drain pan
  13a .... Discharge port
  15 ... Thin plate
  16 ... Connection member
  19 ... Hot water heater
  20 ... High-temperature water circulation circuit
  23 ... Pump
  25 ... Control circuit
  27 ・・・・・・・・ Piping
  28 ... Circulation pump
  29 ・・・・・・・・ Water supply source
  35 ... Control circuit
  36 ・・・・・・・・ Power circuit
  37 ・・・・・・・・ Remote control
  41 ... Unit bathroom
  42 ... Two-way communication line
  46 ... Washing area
  47 ・・・・・・・・ Counter

Claims

Steam generating means for generating steam by dissipating hot water at a predetermined temperature from the hot water outlet of the hot water outlet to the heat exchange promoting member having the heating means, and blowing the steam from the steam outlet by the operation of the fan, Hot water circulating means for collecting hot water diffused from the hot water jet pipe of the steam generating means and contacting the heat exchange promoting member and returning it directly to the hot water jet pipe; and control means for controlling the operation of the steam generating means and the hot water circulating means. A hot water recovery member for recovering hot water in contact with the heat exchange promoting member, and a circulation pump disposed between an outlet of the hot water recovery member and the hot water jet pipe, Water supply means for supplying water or hot water to the circulation flow path by the circulation pump, and drainage means capable of draining the circulating hot water to the outside,
The said control means controls the quantity of the steam generated from a steam generation means by controlling the electrical characteristic value of the circulation pump in a hot water circulation means, and adjusting the circulation amount of hot water, The steam generator characterized by the above-mentioned .

Steam generating means for generating steam by dissipating hot water at a predetermined temperature from the hot water outlet of the hot water outlet to the heat exchange promoting member having the heating means, and blowing the steam from the steam outlet by the operation of the fan, Hot water circulating means for collecting hot water diffused from the hot water jet pipe of the steam generating means and contacting the heat exchange promoting member and returning it directly to the hot water jet pipe; and control means for controlling the operation of the steam generating means and the hot water circulating means. A hot water recovery member for recovering hot water in contact with the heat exchange promoting member, and a circulation pump disposed between an outlet of the hot water recovery member and the hot water jet pipe, Water supply means for supplying water or hot water to the circulation flow path by the circulation pump, and drainage means capable of draining the circulating hot water to the outside,
The control means supplies the water or the like based on a detection result of a detection means for detecting at least one value of a circulating hot water amount in the hot water circulation means, an electrical characteristic value of the circulation pump, and a water level of the hot water recovery member. A steam generator characterized by maintaining a predetermined amount of hot water in the hot water circulating means by controlling the amount of water or hot water supplied by the means .

3. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein the control unit performs control in association with the steam generation unit, the hot water circulation unit, and the high-temperature water supply unit that supplies high-temperature water to a connection member of the steam generation unit. steam generating apparatus.