JP4294545B2 - Water heater with water level sensor - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a hot water supply device with a water level sensor, which has a hot water supply heat source, a hot water supply passage that leads hot water supplied from the hot water supply source to a bathtub, and a water level sensor that detects the water level in the bathtub.

  A hot water supply apparatus having a water level sensor for detecting the water level in the bathtub is widely used (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  Such a hot water supply device with a water level sensor uses the water level sensor to determine the hot water level when, for example, hot water is automatically filled from a hot water source through a hot water passage. In addition, automatic hot water filling is generally started when a bath user operates an automatic hot water filling switch or the like, and in some cases, the user uses a reservation function such as a remote controller in advance. A hot water supply device with an automatic hot water filling function that starts automatic hot water filling at a set time is also used.

Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 2-109965

  By the way, the present inventor considers that there is not only a water level determination such as automatic hot water filling using a water level sensor in a water heater with a water level sensor, but also a more effective usage method. We thought that it would be possible to propose a hot water supply device that can be operated optimally by providing a learning function that uses the.

  The present invention has been made based on the above-mentioned idea of the present inventor, and an object thereof is to provide a hot water supply device with a water level sensor capable of optimal operation by a learning function using the water level sensor.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention has the following configuration as means for solving the problems. That is, the first invention is a hot water supply apparatus with a water level sensor having a hot water supply heat source, a hot water supply passage for introducing hot water supplied from the hot water supply source to the bathtub, and a water level sensor for detecting the water level in the bathtub. Based on the bath water level information obtained from the water level sensor and the time information obtained from the clock mechanism, bathing information of all users for each time on the time axis with a period of an integer multiple of days (an integer multiple of 1 or more). Bathing information learning storage unit for estimating and learning and storing , a reheating mechanism for reheating hot water in the bathtub, and reheating the bathtub hot water by the reheating mechanism to bring the bath water temperature to the bath set temperature or a temperature near it. Obtained from the warming execution time unit for keeping warm, the warming end time determination unit for referring to the data in the bathing information learning storage unit, determining the warming end time of the bathtub in correspondence with the estimated bathing end time of all users, and the clock mechanism A warming control unit that performs warming operation by the warming execution unit until the warming end time determined by the warming end time determination unit is taken in. The information learning storage unit estimates the number of people bathing together based on the change information of the level of water level rise when a different water level rise occurs alternately several times within a predetermined time interval. The bathing information is learned and stored as if the number of people bathing together, and the heat retention end time determination unit matches the estimated bathing end time of all users including the number of people bathing together. The means for solving the problem is configured to determine the heat retention end time .

A second aspect of the present invention relates to a hot water supply apparatus with a water level sensor, comprising a hot water supply heat source, a hot water supply passage for introducing hot water supplied from the hot water supply source to the bathtub, and a water level sensor for detecting the water level in the bathtub. Based on the bath water level information obtained from the water level sensor and the time information obtained from the clock mechanism, bathing information of all users for each time on the time axis with a period of an integer multiple of days (an integer multiple of 1 or more). Bathing information learning storage unit for estimating and learning and storing, a reheating mechanism for reheating hot water in the bathtub, and reheating the bathtub hot water by the reheating mechanism to bring the bath water temperature to the bath set temperature or a temperature near it. A heat retention execution unit that retains heat, a user number detection unit that refers to data in the bathing information learning storage unit, grasps the number of users who use the bathtub within the time from the first set time to the second set time, and the water level Sensor Taking in the information of the bath water level obtained and determining whether or not all of the number of users have finished bathing after the first set time, and the bathing end determination unit before the second set time by the bathing end determination unit When it is determined that the bathing of the number of users has been completed, the control to end the heat retaining operation by the heat retaining performing unit before the second set time and the second set time by the bathing end determining unit are passed. When it is determined that the bathing of the number of users has not been completed, the temperature maintaining operation time variable control unit that performs at least one of the control for extending the heat retaining operation by the heat retaining execution unit until all the bathing of the number of users is completed. The bathing information learning storage unit changes the magnitude of the water level rise when different water levels rise alternately several times within a predetermined time interval. Based on the information, the number of people bathing together is estimated, the bathing information is learned and stored as the estimated number of people bathing together, and the user number detection unit is stored in the bathing information learning storage unit Based on the data, when multiple people are bathing together, it is a means of solving the problem by grasping the number of users including the number of people bathing together .

Furthermore, in addition to the configuration of the first or second invention, the third invention refers to the data in the bathing information learning storage unit, and corresponds to the estimated bathing start time of the user. A hot water filling start time detecting unit for obtaining the hot water filling time, and automatic hot water that takes in the time information obtained from the clock mechanism and automatically fills the hot water from the hot water supply source at the hot water filling start time obtained by the hot water filling start time detecting unit. A configuration having a tension execution unit is a means for solving the problem.

Furthermore, in addition to the structure of any one of the first to third inventions, the fourth invention is one or more hot water supply destinations that include hot water accumulated in a hot water storage tank using the exhaust heat of the power generator. A cogeneration hot water supply heat source device that supplies hot water to a hot water supply, and an auxiliary hot water supply heat source device that has the function of supplying hot water created by heating water to one or more hot water destinations including a bathtub. A heat storage amount detection unit for obtaining a value corresponding to the heat storage amount of hot water in the hot water storage tank based on monitor information related to detection of the heat storage amount of the operation status of the generation hot water supply heat source device, and a value detected in advance by the heat storage amount detection unit Based on hot water supply heat source switching control information, a control device is provided that controls hot water supply operation using the hot water storage tank of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device as a hot water supply heat source and hot water supply operation using the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device as a hot water supply heat source. And a means for solving the problems.

Further, the fifth invention, in addition to the configuration of the fourth invention, the hot water storage tank of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source apparatus, a hot-water supply path for water to hot water supply passage and hot water tank for introducing water into the該貯tundish Provided with a means for heating the water in the hot water tank to hot water using the exhaust heat of the power generator or the heat of the exhaust heat absorbing fluid of the power generator between the hot water tank and the power generator, The hot water formed by the means is stored in a hot water storage tank, and the hot water in the hot water storage tank is supplied to the hot water supply destination through the hot water supply passage.

Further, in a sixth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the configuration of the fourth or fifth aspect of the invention, a passage of hot water supplied from the hot water storage tank of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device is communicated with a water supply inlet of the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device. When hot water supply is performed using only the hot water in the hot water storage tank as a heat source, the hot water in the hot water storage tank is supplied to the hot water supply destination via an auxiliary hot water supply heat source device in a non-heated drive state.

Furthermore, the seventh invention solves the problem with a fuel cell that generates electricity by reacting hydrogen and oxygen in addition to the configuration of any one of the fourth to sixth inventions. As a means.

Furthermore, in an eighth aspect of the invention, in addition to the configuration of any one of the fourth to sixth aspects, the power generator is configured as a gas engine as means for solving the problem.

  According to the present invention, the user's bathing information for each time on the time axis having a cycle of an integer multiple of one day (an integer multiple of 1 or more) is obtained from the bathtub water level information obtained from the water level sensor and the clock mechanism. Bathing information learning storage unit that estimates and learns based on the time information obtained, and refers to the information learned and stored by this bathing information learning storage unit, and hot water filling operation according to the user's demand It is possible to realize a hot water supply device with a water level sensor that can perform an optimum operation and the like.

  For example, in the present invention, it is obtained from a hot water start time detection unit that refers to data in the bathing information learning storage unit and obtains a hot water start time of a bathtub in correspondence with an estimated bathing start time of a user, and a clock mechanism. According to the configuration having the automatic hot water filling execution unit that takes in the time information and automatically supplies hot water from the hot water supply source at the hot water start time determined by the hot water start time detection unit, the user bathes Since the hot water filling can be automatically performed according to the estimated start time, the hot water filling suitable for the use of the user is possible, and the usability can be improved.

Further, the present invention, the data of the bathing information learning storing unit with reference to, in association with bathing completion time estimate of the user to determine the completion of thermal insulation time tub, until reaching the insulation end time, reheating mechanism operation since the construction of heat insulating the bath water temperature in a bath set temperature or a temperature near the of, since it is kept in the bath water temperature in accordance with the demand of the user, it is possible to realize a comfortable bathing.

  Furthermore, in this invention, with reference to the data of the said bathing information learning memory | storage part, the number of users who use a bathtub within the time from the 1st setting time to the 2nd setting time is grasped | ascertained, and before the 2nd setting time, the said When it is determined that the bathing of the number of users has been completed, it is determined that the bathing of the hot water in the bathtub is terminated and the bathing of the number of users is not completed even after the second set time has passed. In some cases, according to the configuration in which at least one of the control for extending the heat retention operation is performed until the bathing of the number of users is completed, the stored data in the bathing information learning storage unit even if the bathing time of the user is slightly different from the normal time And since the heat retention operation time can be controlled corresponding to the deviation from the bathing situation at that time, more comfortable bathing can be realized.

  Furthermore, in the present invention, a hot water supply heat source is a cogeneration hot water supply heat source device that supplies hot water accumulated in a hot water storage tank to one or more hot water supply destinations including a bathtub using exhaust heat of the power generation device, And an auxiliary hot water supply heat source device having a function of supplying hot water produced by heating to one or more hot water supply destinations including a bathtub, and the control device uses the hot water storage tank of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device as a hot water supply heat source. According to the configuration for controlling the hot water supply operation and the hot water supply operation using the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device as the hot water supply heat source, the hot water supply device with a water level sensor capable of saving energy by performing the hot water supply operation using the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device as the hot water supply heat source. Can be realized.

  Furthermore, in the present invention, the hot water formed by the means provided between the hot water storage tank of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device and the power generation device is stored in the hot water storage tank, having a cogeneration hot water supply heat source device and an auxiliary hot water supply heat source device. However, according to the configuration in which the hot water in the hot water storage tank is supplied to the hot water supply destination through the hot water supply path provided in the hot water storage tank, the hot water accumulation by the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device and the hot water supply from the hot water storage tank are efficiently performed. Can be done.

  Furthermore, in the present invention, the passage of hot water supplied from the hot water storage tank of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device is connected to the water supply inlet of the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device, and when hot water is supplied using only the hot water of the hot water storage tank as the heat source, According to the configuration in which hot water is supplied to the hot water supply destination via the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device in the non-heated drive state, the hot water supply passage supplied from the hot water storage tank of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device, the water supply inlet of the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device, The system configuration can be simplified and the hot water can be efficiently supplied.

  Further, in the present invention, the power generation device of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device is a fuel cell that generates electricity by reacting hydrogen and oxygen, or a gas engine, thereby producing the above-described excellent effects. It is possible to accurately construct an environmentally friendly water heater with a water level sensor that is equipped with a heat source device. In particular, by using a power generation device as a fuel cell, it is possible to reduce the cost without discharging substances that adversely affect the environment. Since the generation hot water supply heat source device can be operated, a more complex environmentally friendly hot water supply device with a water level sensor can be constructed.

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

  FIG. 2 shows a system configuration of an embodiment of a hot water supply apparatus with a water level sensor according to the present invention, and FIG. 1 shows a control configuration thereof. As shown in FIG. 2, the present embodiment heats the water of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3 that supplies the hot water accumulated in the hot water storage tank 2 to the hot water supply destination using the exhaust heat of the power generation device 1, and the water that passes through the water. The hot water supply device with a combined water level sensor is provided with an auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4 for supplying hot water prepared in this manner to a hot water supply destination.

The power generator 1 applied in the present embodiment is formed by a fuel cell such as a polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC), for example, and is extracted from a fuel such as city gas by the reverse reaction of water electrolysis. This is a device for generating electricity by reacting the generated hydrogen 2H ⁺ with oxygen (1/2) O ₂ in the air.

  The system having the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3 is attracting attention as a system capable of producing an energy saving effect. In the present embodiment, the power generation device 1 is particularly formed by a fuel cell, thereby adversely affecting the environment. The cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3 can be operated without discharging the substance to be given, and an environmentally friendly hot water supply device with a water level sensor can be constructed.

  The hot water storage tank 2 includes a water supply path 11 for introducing water into the hot water storage tank 2 and a hot water supply path 12 for supplying hot water from the hot water storage tank 2, and a hot water temperature detection sensor 100 is provided in the hot water supply path 12. Between the hot water storage tank 2 and the power generation device 1, a cooling water introduction passage 13 and a waste hot water introduction passage 14 are provided. The cooling water introduction passage 13 uses the water in the hot water storage tank 2 as cooling water for the power generation device 1. The water is introduced into the power generation device 1 side, and the water is heated by exhaust heat generated during power generation by the power generation device 1 to form hot water having a temperature of, for example, 60 ° C., and is accumulated in the hot water storage tank 2 through the exhaust hot water introduction passage 14. That is, the cooling water introduction passage 13 and the exhaust hot water introduction passage 14 form a means for heating the water in the hot water storage tank 2 by the exhaust heat of the power generator 1 to make hot water.

  In the present embodiment, the capacity of the hot water tank 2 is, for example, 200 L, and the hot water tank 2 is provided with hot water temperature detection sensors 101 to 111 in the hot water tank at intervals. A drainage passage 15 for draining the water in the hot water tank 2 is provided below the hot water tank 2, and a drain valve 52 is provided in the drainage passage 15. A pressure relief passage 16 is provided above the hot water storage tank 2, and an overpressure relief valve 50 is provided in the pressure relief passage 16. The hot water tank 2 is usually filled with hot water or water.

  In the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3 applied in the present embodiment, when the power generation device 1 is activated, water stored in the lower side of the hot water tank 2 is introduced into the power generation device 1 through the cooling water introduction passage 13, The hot water is heated by the exhaust heat generated during the power generation of the power generation device 1 to be hot water, and the hot water is introduced into the hot water tank 2 from the upper side of the hot water tank 2 through the exhaust hot water introduction passage 14. Has accumulated hot water. FIG. 6 shows a diagram in which the region filled with hot water is indicated by hatching in order to make the boundary region between hot water and water easy to understand.

  When the hot water accumulation operation is repeated, the water on the lower side of the hot water tank 2 is converted into hot water by the exhaust heat of the power generator 1 and introduced into the upper side of the hot water tank 2, which is indicated by a broken line A in FIG. The boundary line between the water and hot water in the hot water tank 2 moves toward the lower side of the hot water tank 2. Note that if the hot water tank 2 is completely filled with hot water, the cooling power cannot be introduced into the power generation device 1, so that the power generation by the power generation device 1 cannot be performed.

  Further, when the hot water in the hot water tank 2 is supplied to an appropriate hot water supply place through the hot water supply path 12, water is supplied from the water supply path 11 into the hot water tank 2 by the amount of hot water reduced by this water supply. A boundary line between water and hot water in the hot water tank 2 indicated by a broken line A in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, in the present embodiment, the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3 and the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4 are connected to the hot water mixing unit 10 via the connection passage 45, and the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3. On the outlet side of the hot water supply passage 12, a flow rate sensor 70 that detects the flow rate of hot water fed from the hot water supply passage 12 is provided. Further, a branch passage 11 b of the water supply passage 11 is connected to the hot water / mixing unit 10. A water supply temperature sensor 112 is provided in the water supply path 11.

  The hot water mixing unit 10 is supplied with water from the water supply path 11, a hot water on / off valve 54 that opens and closes the hot water supply path 12, a hot water proportional valve 55 that variably controls the flow rate of hot water supplied from the hot water supply path 12 according to the valve opening degree. And a flow rate sensor 71 provided on the inlet side of the connection passage 45. The hot water on / off valve 54 is an electromagnetic valve, and the hot water proportional valves 55 and 56 are both formed by a gear motor. A hot water temperature detection sensor 120 is provided on the outlet side of the hot water supply passage 12, and a hot water temperature detection sensor 118 is provided on the inlet side of the connection passage 45.

  The auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4 is a device having a function of supplying hot water prepared by heating water flowing to one or more hot water supply destinations including the bathtub 126, and has a hot water heater 5 (5a, 5b). Is formed. The water heater 5 (5a, 5b) has combustion chambers 23, 24, respectively. In the combustion chamber 23 of the water heater 5 a, a burner 6, a combustion fan 8 that supplies and exhausts combustion of the burner 6, and a hot water supply heat exchanger 19 that is heated by the combustion of the burner 6 are provided. Further, in the combustion chamber 24 of the water heater 5b, a burner 7, a combustion fan 9 for supplying and exhausting combustion of the burner 7, and a reheating heat exchanger 25 heated by the combustion of the burner 7 are provided. Yes.

  Gas pipes 21 and 22 for supplying fuel to the burners 6 and 7 are connected to the burners 6 and 7, and these gas pipes 21 and 22 are branched from the gas pipe 20. The gas pipe 20 is provided with a gas on / off valve 80, the gas pipe 21 has a gas proportional valve 86 and gas on / off valves 81, 82, and 83, and the gas pipe 22 has a gas proportional valve 87 and a gas on the gas pipe 22. On-off valves 84 and 85 are interposed, respectively. These valves 80 to 87 are all formed by electromagnetic valves, the gas on-off valves 80 to 85 control the fuel supply / stop to the corresponding burners 6 and 7, and the gas proportional valves 86 and 87 correspond to the corresponding valves. The amount of fuel supplied to the burners 6 and 7 is controlled by the valve opening.

  A water supply introduction passage 18 is provided on the inlet side of the hot water heat exchanger 19, and this water supply introduction passage 18 is connected to the connection passage 45. A flow rate sensor 73 that detects the amount of hot water flowing through the water supply introduction passage 18 is provided on the inlet side of the water supply introduction passage 18.

  A hot water supply passage 26 is provided on the outlet side of the hot water supply heat exchanger 19, and the front end side of the hot water supply passage 26 is connected to the water supply introduction passage 18 via a branch passage 90 and a hot water passage switching valve 58. In the hot water supply passage 26, a hot water temperature detection sensor 113 is provided on the downstream side of the branch portion of the branch passage 90, and a hot water temperature detection sensor 114 is provided on the hot water supply heat exchanger 19 side. An overheat prevention device (thermostat) 115 is provided in the middle of the hot water supply heat exchanger 19.

  One end side of the forward pipe 91 is connected to one end side of the reheating heat exchanger 25, and the other end side of the forward pipe 91 is connected to the bathtub 126 via a circulation fitting 97. Further, a passage 93 is connected to the other end side of the reheating heat exchanger 25, and the other end side of the passage 93 is connected to a discharge port of the circulation pump 94. One end side of the return pipe 96 is connected to the suction port of the circulation pump 94, and the other end side of the return pipe 96 is connected to the bathtub 126 through the circulation fitting 97. The return pipe 96 is provided with a bathtub hot water temperature detection sensor 127.

  Reheating for recirculating hot water in the bathtub by circulating the hot water in the bathtub 126 by driving the circulation pump 94 by the outgoing pipe 91, the reheating heat exchanger 25, the passage 93, the circulation pump 94, and the return pipe 96. A circulation passage 99 is formed.

  Also, a bath pouring introduction passage 95 is connected to the hot water supply passage 26 on the downstream side of the formation portion of the branch passage 90 and the arrangement portion of the tapping hot water temperature detection sensor 113. Is connected to the passage 93. The bath pouring introduction passage 95 is provided with a water level sensor 125 that detects the water level of the bathtub 126 by water pressure. A hot water filling passage is constituted by the passage from the hot water supply heat exchanger 19 through the hot water supply passage 26, the bath pouring introduction passage 95, the passage 93, the reheating heat exchanger 25, and the outgoing pipe 91 to the bathtub 126 in this order. ing.

  In FIG. 2, a hot water supply place such as a kitchen and a bathtub 126 are shown as hot water supply destinations, but various types of hot water supply devices with water level sensors that supply hot water to appropriate hot water supply destinations such as a shower in a bathroom are shown. Can be configured.

  The system configuration of the water heater with a water level sensor according to the present embodiment is configured as described above. Next, the control device 44 shown in FIG. 1 will be described. The control device 44 includes a heat storage amount detection unit 35, a selection control unit 36, a combustion control unit 42, a bathing information learning storage unit 37, a hot water filling start time detection unit 39, an automatic hot water filling execution unit 40, a heat insulation execution unit 47, and a clock mechanism. 41, a user number detection unit 38, a bathing end determination unit 34, and a heat retention operation time variable control unit 48.

  The heat storage amount detection unit 35 obtains a value corresponding to the heat storage amount of hot water in the hot water tank 2 based on monitor information related to detection of the heat storage amount of the operation status of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3. The monitor information is, for example, information on the temperature detected by the hot water temperature detection sensors 101 to 111 in the hot water tank, information on the operating time of the power generator 1, and the like. The operating time of the power generator 1 can be obtained from, for example, on / off information of the power generator 1 and time information obtained from the clock mechanism 41. In addition, if a flow sensor is provided in the exhaust hot water introduction passage 14, information on the operation time of the power generation apparatus 1 can be obtained from information on the flow sensor.

  Here, an example of how to obtain a value corresponding to the heat storage amount of hot water in the hot water tank 2 is shown. For example, as the monitor information, the heat storage amount detection unit 35 takes in information on the temperature detected by the hot water temperature detection sensors 101 to 111 in the hot water tank, and the temperature detected by the hot water temperature detection sensor 105 in the hot water tank is about 60 ° C. If the temperature detected by the water temperature detection sensor 106 is about 20 ° C., the boundary line between the water and hot water in the hot water tank 2 as shown by the broken line A in FIG. 6 indicates the hot water temperature detection sensor 105 in the hot water tank and the hot water tank. It is determined that about 80 L of hot water at about 60 ° C. is accumulated in the hot water storage tank 2 between the internal hot water temperature detection sensor 106.

  Moreover, if the amount of hot water accumulated per unit time due to the operation of the power generation device 1 is given in advance to the heat storage amount detection unit 35 and this amount is 2 L per minute, for example, the time of the power generation device 1 obtained from the clock mechanism 41 When the information has passed for 30 minutes, the heat storage amount detection unit 35 determines that 60 L of hot water at about 60 ° C. is accumulated in the hot water storage tank 2. In this manner, the heat storage amount detection unit 35 can detect the amount of hot water in the hot water tank 2 from time to time based on the operating time information of the power generation device 1 obtained from the timepiece mechanism 41.

  Further, the heat storage amount detection unit 35 calculates the amount of hot water used in the hot water storage tank 2 from, for example, detection data of the flow rate sensor 70 and subtracts this value from the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 2, thereby The amount of hot water remaining in the tank 2 can be detected every moment, and the temperature of the hot water accumulated in the hot water storage tank 2 can be estimated from the elapsed time since the accumulation of hot water.

  The selection control unit 36 is a hot water supply heat source selection control unit. For example, when a value corresponding to the heat storage amount obtained by the heat storage amount detection unit 35 falls below a lower threshold value that is predetermined for heat source selection. The hot water supply heat source is switched from the hot water storage tank 2 to the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4 for hot water supply, and the value corresponding to the heat storage amount of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 2 obtained by the heat storage amount detection unit 35 is selected for the heat source selection. When the temperature rises above a predetermined upper threshold value, hot water is supplied by switching the hot water supply heat source from the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4 to the hot water storage tank 2 of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3. In addition, the selection control of the hot water supply heat source by the selection control unit 36 is not particularly limited, and is appropriately set.

  In the present embodiment, a hot water supply passage (hot water supply path 12) fed from the hot water storage tank 2 of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3 is communicated with a water supply inlet of the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4. When hot water at a set temperature or higher is sent from the hot water storage tank 2 using hot water as a heat source, the hot water in the hot water storage tank 2 is supplied to the hot water supply destination via the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4 in a non-heated drive state. Yes.

  That is, when hot water is supplied using the hot water in the hot water tank 2 as a heat source, the selection control unit 36 opens the hot water on / off valve 54 and adjusts the valve opening amounts of the hot water proportional valves 55 and 56 as appropriate. Hot water is mixed with water supplied from the water supply passage 11 via the branch passage 11b and sent to the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4 in a non-heated drive state as hot water at a set temperature. Then, for example, hot water having a set temperature introduced into the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4 is switched to the hot water path switching valve 58 to supply hot water to an appropriate hot water supply destination such as a kitchen through the branch passage 90, or the hot water on / off valve 59 is opened for bathing. Hot water filling is performed through the pouring introduction passage 95 and the hot water filling passage.

  Further, when the hot water supply heat source is switched to the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4, the selection control unit 36 closes the hot water on / off valve 54, for example, and supplies water introduced into the hot water mixing unit 10 from the water supply passage 11 through the branch passage 11 b. The hot water heater 5a is introduced through the connection passage 45, and a command is given to the combustion control unit 42 of the hot water heater 5a, and the hot water heater 5a is operated to supply hot water by the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4.

  When the selection control unit 36 selects the hot water supply operation from the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4, the combustion control unit 42 refers to the flow rate detected by the flow rate sensor 73 and turns on at least one of the gas on-off valves 81, 82, 83. Open and adjust the valve opening amount of the gas proportional valve 86 to adjust the gas amount supplied to the burner 6, adjust the air volume of the combustion fan 8, and refer to the detected temperature of the tapping water temperature detection sensor 113, Combustion control of the burner 6 is performed so that the hot water discharged through the hot water supply heat exchanger 19 becomes a hot water having a set temperature.

  The bathing information learning storage unit 37 includes the bath water level information obtained from the water level sensor 125 for user bathing information for each time on the time axis with a period of an integer multiple of one day (an integer multiple of 1 or more). Based on the time information obtained from the clock mechanism 41, it is estimated and stored.

  This stored information includes, for example, information such as “Mr. A takes a bath around XX hours and minutes, and B takes a bath 20 minutes later” and “Mr. C (adult) at around XX hours ○ minutes”. And Mr. D (child) bathe together. " Since the water level fluctuates according to the size (volume) of the person taking the bath, the bathing information learning storage unit 37 determines whether the bather is an adult or a child based on the water level fluctuation amount and the fluctuation amount reference data given in advance. You can learn information such as whether or not you are bathing, and you can also distinguish between bathers.

  In addition, the bathing information learning storage unit 37 alternately detects, for example, a parent bathing (water level rise large) and a child bathing (water level rise small) from the detected water level of the water level sensor 20 alternately during 20 minutes. Based on this detection information, it can also be estimated that the parent and child are bathing together.

  And the bathing information learning memory | storage part 37 is, for example, about 6:00 in the evening from the user's bathing information for each time on the time axis with a period of, for example, one week (seven times a day). Thus, if parents and children are bathing together at about the same time every week, it can be estimated that the next month, water, and gold will also bathe in the same pattern during this time zone. .

  The hot water start time detection unit 39 refers to the data in the bathing information learning storage unit 37 and obtains the hot water start time of the bathtub 126 in correspondence with the estimated bathing start time of the user. For example, as described above, when a plurality of people take a bath, the bathing start time of the person who bathes first is estimated, and the user can take a bath at the estimated time corresponding to the estimated bathing start time. The hot water filling start time of the bathtub 126 is obtained.

  The automatic hot water filling execution unit 40 takes in the time information obtained from the clock mechanism 41 and automatically supplies hot water from the hot water supply heat source at the hot water filling start time obtained by the hot water filling start time detection unit 39. Fill with water to reach the set water level. The present embodiment is a complex system including the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3 and the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4, and performs hot water supply to the bathtub 126 from the hot water supply heat source selected by the selection control unit 36.

In the present embodiment, by estimating the hot water filling start time of tub 126 by referring to the data of the bathing information learning storing unit 37, as described above, the automatically to the water filling start time water In addition to performing tensioning, it is possible to estimate the return time of the user's family (for example, a parent or child) from the estimated start time of the hot water filling, and thus to estimate the increase in power consumption from this return time. It is also possible to control the operation pattern of the power generator 1 according to the power demand.

  That is, the power generation device 1 of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3 has a characteristic that power generation is easily stabilized when preheating is performed in advance. In particular, when the power generation device 1 is a fuel cell, preheating is performed in advance. For example, if the user's return time can be estimated as described above, for example, the preheating operation of the power generator 1 (for example, a fuel cell) is performed, for example, one hour before the estimated time. Therefore, when there is a large power demand, the power generation device 1 can be operated stably.

  Note that the preheating operation referred to here is to operate the power generation device 1 with a small amount of power generation so that when the power generation device 1 operates to obtain a large amount of power generation, the operation becomes more stable operation. When the operation amount of the power generation device 1 is increased in accordance with the increase in power demand when the user returns home after such preheating operation is started in advance, the power generation by the power generation device 1, particularly the fuel cell, is stabilized. Can be made.

In addition, it is predicted that the amount of hot water used will increase after the user returns home, and the hot water filling start time when the amount of hot water used is particularly large can be obtained from the estimated bathing start time. previous tension start time if a small amount of hot water in savings tundish in 2 to (estimated from, for example, water filling start time, the hot water storage start adaptation time of the hot water in the hot water tank 2), the power generation device actively to the power demand Operation control for storing hot water in the hot water storage tank 2 can be performed in accordance with hot water supply demand, such as supplying electric power generated by power generation 1 and storing hot water in the hot water storage tank 2.

  Therefore, for example, as described above, when it is estimated that bathing is performed in the same pattern during the same time zone (for example, around 6:00 pm) on the moon, water, and gold, the preheating operation of the power generator 1 as described above is performed. In addition, power supply by operating the power generation device 1 at the time of power demand is performed in accordance with the bathing start time, and on other days of the week, the preheating operation of the power generation device 1 or the power generation device at the time of power demand It is also possible to perform control such that power supply or the like by operating 1 is performed at another time in accordance with the demand on the day of the week.

  Thus, in the hot water supply device with a water level sensor having the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3 as in the present embodiment, the bathing information learning storage unit 37 has an integral multiple of one day (an integral multiple of 1 or more) as a cycle. The user's bathing information for each time on the time axis is estimated, learned and stored based on the bathtub water level information obtained from the water level sensor 125 and the time information obtained from the clock mechanism 41, and stored in the learning storage data. Based on the estimation of the user's hot water supply demand and electric power demand, the power generation efficiency of the power generation device 1 can be increased and the hot water in the hot water storage tank 2 can be used efficiently.

  The heat insulation execution unit 47 keeps the bathtub hot water at a bath set temperature or a temperature in the vicinity thereof by chasing the hot water in the bathtub by a chasing mechanism for chasing hot water in the bathtub. The heat retention execution unit 47 drives the circulation pump 94 to circulate the bath hot water, opens at least one of the gas on-off valves 84 and 85, adjusts the valve opening amount of the gas proportional valve 87, and is supplied to the burner 7. The amount of gas generated is adjusted, the air volume of the combustion fan 8 is adjusted, and the hot water heated through the reheating heat exchanger 25 is replenished by the burner 7, so that the temperature detected by the bathtub hot water temperature detection sensor 127 is referred to. While keeping the temperature.

  The user number detection unit 38 refers to the data in the bathing information learning storage unit 37 and grasps the number of users who use the bathtub 126 within the time from the first set time to the second set time. For example, if the bathing information learning storage unit 37 stores the information that “Mr. A takes a bath at around XX hours and Ms. B and C take a bath 20 minutes later,” the number of bathers is Judge the number of users by judging that there are three. Then, the user number detection unit 38 adds the user number information to the bathing end determination unit 34.

  The bathing end determination unit 34 takes in the information on the bath water level obtained from the water level sensor 125, and occasionally determines whether or not all the bathing of the number of users has ended after the first set time based on the variation reference data given in advance. Judge every moment.

  When the bathing end determination unit 34 determines that the bathing of the number of users has been completed before the second set time, the warming operation time variable control unit 48 is configured to execute the heat retention execution unit 47 before the second set time. When the bathing determination unit 34 determines that the bathing of the number of users has not ended even after the second set time has elapsed, all the bathing of the number of users has been completed. Until the end, at least one of the control for extending the heat retaining operation by the heat retaining execution unit 47 is performed.

  In this embodiment, normally, both of the warming operation early termination control and the warming operation extension control are configured to be performed. However, for example, a setting unit configured to selectively perform one of these controls is provided on the remote controller. For example, it may be configured such that only the heat insulation operation early termination control is performed or only the heat insulation operation is extended as necessary.

  The present embodiment is configured as described above, hot water supply or hot water filling is performed from the hot water supply heat source selected by the selection control unit 36, and the bathing information learning storage unit 37 is an integer multiple of a day ( The user's bathing information for each time on the time axis having a period of an integer multiple of 1) is estimated and learned based on the bath water level information obtained from the water level sensor 125 and the time information obtained from the clock mechanism 41. Since the information is stored, it is possible to perform a hot water filling operation or a heat retaining operation in accordance with the user's demand by referring to the learned and stored information.

  That is, in this embodiment, for example, the hot water start time detection unit 39 refers to the data in the bathing information learning storage unit 37 and obtains the hot water start time of the bathtub 126 corresponding to the estimated bathing start time of the user. Since the automatic hot water filling execution unit 40 can automatically fill the hot water from the hot water supply source at the obtained hot water filling start time, the hot water filling suitable for the use of the user can be performed. Can be good.

  In the present embodiment, the use of the bathtub 126 is used within the time from the first set time to the second set time, which is obtained by referring to the data in the bathing information learning storage unit 37 by the user number detecting unit 38. The warming operation time can be variably controlled according to the number of persons and the bathtub use situation within the time from the first set time to the second set time.

  That is, the warming operation time variable control unit 48 controls to end the hot water bath warming operation when it is determined that the bathing of the number of users has been completed before the second set time, and the second set time. When it is determined that the bathing of the number of users has not ended even after passing, control is performed to extend the heat retaining operation until all the bathing of the number of users is completed, and the stored data in the bathing information learning storage unit 37 And since the heat retention operation time can be controlled corresponding to the deviation from the bathing situation at that time, more comfortable bathing can be realized.

  Furthermore, since the present embodiment is a complex hot water supply apparatus having the cogeneration hot water supply heat source apparatus 3, a water level sensor is provided that can save energy by performing a hot water supply operation using the cogeneration hot water supply heat source apparatus 3 as a hot water supply heat source. A water heater can be realized.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a passage of hot water supplied from the hot water storage tank 2 of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3 is connected to the water supply inlet of the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4 to supply hot water using the hot water of the hot water storage tank 2 as a heat source. When the hot water in the hot water storage tank 2 is supplied to the hot water supply destination via the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4 in the non-heated drive state, the passage of the hot water supplied from the hot water storage tank 2 of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3 and the auxiliary hot water supply By communicating with the water supply inlet of the heat source device 4, the system configuration can be simplified and hot water can be supplied efficiently.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, It can take various aspects. For example, in the above embodiment, the user number detection unit 38, the bathing end determination unit 34, and the heat retention operation time variable control unit 48 are provided, and the operation time of the heat retention execution unit 47 is variably controlled by the heat retention operation time variable control unit 48. However, instead of providing the user number detection unit 38, the bathing end determination unit 34, and the heat retention operation time variable control unit 48, the configuration shown in FIG. 3 may be applied, or the configuration shown in FIG. The configuration shown in FIG. 1 may be provided with an operation unit that performs switching control according to the user's preference or the like.

  The configuration shown in FIG. 3 is provided with a heat retention end time determination unit 43 and a heat retention control unit 49, and the heat retention end time determination unit 43 refers to the data in the bathing information learning storage unit 37 and finishes bathing of the user. Corresponding to the estimated time, the heat retention end time of the bathtub 126 is determined. The heat retention end time is determined by a predetermined determination method, for example, 10 minutes after the user's bathing end time.

  The heat retention control unit 49 takes in the time information obtained from the clock mechanism 41 and the hot water temperature information in the bathtub 126 until the heat retention end time determined by the heat retention end time determination unit 43 is reached. Perform warming operation.

  As described above, when the heat retention end time determination unit 43 and the heat retention control unit 49 are provided, the heat retention operation is performed until the heat retention end time determined by the heat retention end time determination unit 43 is reached. In addition, the bath water temperature can be kept warm, so a comfortable bathing can be realized.

  In this case, for example, a remote control or the like is provided with a heat retention end input operation section or a heat retention operation extension operation section, and when the user finishes bathing earlier than usual, the heat retention end input operation section is operated to perform the heat retention operation. When the time is shortened and the user takes a bath later than usual, the heat retention time may be extended by operating the heat retention operation extension operation section.

  Moreover, the hot water supply apparatus with a water level sensor of the present invention is provided with a heat retention execution unit 47 as in the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, and performs heat retention operation control corresponding to the data learned and stored by the bathing information learning storage unit 37. The data learned and stored by the bathing information learning storage unit 37 may be used only for the hot water filling operation.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the power generation device 1 of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3 is a fuel cell. However, the power generation device 1 may be formed by an engine such as a gas engine, and has a configuration including the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3. The power generator 1 applied when the hot water supply device with a water level sensor is used is only required to be able to accumulate hot water in the hot water storage tank 2 using the exhaust heat, and the fuel and configuration of the power generator 1 are particularly limited. Instead, it is set appropriately.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, between the hot water storage tank 2 of the cogeneration hot-water supply heat source apparatus 3, and the electric power generating apparatus 1, the water in the hot water storage tank 2 is heated into hot water using the exhaust heat of the electric power generating apparatus 1. Although the means is provided, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the means for heating the water in the hot water storage tank 2 using the heat of the exhaust heat absorbing fluid of the power generation apparatus 1 to make hot water is provided. Then, the hot water formed by the means may be accumulated in the hot water tank 2.

  In the configuration shown in FIG. 4A, a circulation line 66 for circulating the exhaust heat absorbing fluid of the power generator 1 is passed through the hot water storage tank 2, and heat is exchanged between the exhaust heat absorbing fluid and the water in the hot water storage tank 2. To make the water in the hot water tank 2 into hot water. At this time, the heat of the exhaust heat absorbing fluid is given to the water in the hot water storage tank 2 to be cooled, and the exhaust heat absorbing fluid is sent to the power generator 1 as a cooling fluid.

  The configuration shown in FIG. 4B is a circulation pipe in which a heat exchange member 67 formed of, for example, a copper plate is provided between the hot water tank 2 and the power generator 1 to circulate the exhaust heat absorbing fluid of the power generator 1. The passage 66 is passed through the heat exchange member 67, and the heat exchange member 67 is provided with a circulation pipe 68 for circulating the water in the hot water tank 2, and the heat exhausted through the circulation pipe 66 through the heat exchange member 67. Heat exchange is performed between the absorbing fluid and the water passing through the circulation line 68. That is, the heat of the exhaust heat absorbing fluid is given to the water in the hot water storage tank 2 passing through the circulation pipe 68 through the heat exchange member 67 to turn the water in the hot water storage tank 2 into hot water. It cools to make a cooling fluid.

  In the above embodiment, the water supply channel 11 is connected to the water supply introduction passage 18 of the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4 via the hot water mixing unit 10, but as shown in FIG. It may be connected to the hot water supply passage 26 side through the valve 69, or the water supply passage 11 is connected to both the water supply introduction passage 18 and the hot water supply passage 26 through the valve 69 as shown in FIG. May be.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the hot water supply path 12 of the hot water storage tank 2 of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3 is communicated with the water supply inlet of the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4 via the hot water mixing unit 10 and the connection passage 45. In the invention, the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3 and the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4 may be provided separately and provided side by side.

  Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the hot water supply device with a water level sensor is a composite hot water supply device having the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3 and the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 4, but without providing the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 3, It is good also as a hot-water supply apparatus which supplies hot water created by heating the water of water flow with fuels, such as gas and oil, to one or more hot-water supply destinations including the bathtub 126.

It is a principal part block diagram which shows the control structure of one Embodiment of the hot water supply apparatus with a water level sensor which concerns on this invention. It is a principal part block diagram which shows typically the system configuration | structure of one Embodiment of the hot water supply apparatus with a water level sensor which concerns on this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows a part of control structure applied to the other embodiment of the water heater with a water level sensor which concerns on this invention. It is principal part explanatory drawing which shows typically the structure of the cogeneration hot-water supply heat source apparatus applied to the other embodiment of the water heater with a water level sensor which concerns on this invention. It is principal part explanatory drawing which shows typically the connection structure of the water supply path of the auxiliary hot water supply heat source apparatus applied to the other embodiment example of the hot water supply apparatus with a water level sensor which concerns on this invention, and a cogeneration hot water supply heat source apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows typically the structural example and its operation | movement of a cogeneration hot-water supply heat source apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Power generator 2 Hot water storage tank 3 Cogeneration hot water supply heat source device 4 Auxiliary hot water supply heat source device 5 Hot water heater 34 Bathing completion judgment part 35 Heat storage amount detection part 36 Selection control part 37 Bathing information learning memory part 38 User number detection part 39 Hot water start Time detection unit 40 Automatic hot water filling execution unit 41 Clock mechanism 42 Combustion control unit 43 Thermal insulation end time determination unit 44 Controller 48 Thermal insulation operation time variable control unit 49 Thermal insulation control unit 101-111 Hot water temperature detection sensor in hot water tank 125 Water level sensor 126 Bathtub

Claims (8)

In a hot water supply apparatus with a water level sensor having a hot water supply heat source, a hot water supply passage for guiding hot water supplied from the hot water supply source to the bathtub, and a water level sensor for detecting the water level in the bathtub, an integer multiple of one day (one or more Bathing information for estimating and learning and storing bathing information of all the users for each time on the time axis having a cycle of (integer multiple) based on bath water level information obtained from the water level sensor and time information obtained from a clock mechanism A learning storage unit , a chasing mechanism for chasing hot and cold water in the bathtub, a warming execution unit for chasing the bath water with the chasing mechanism and keeping the bath water temperature at or near the bath set temperature, and bathing A heat retention end time determination unit that determines the heat retention end time of the bathtub in correspondence with the estimated bathing end time of all users by referring to the data in the information learning storage unit, the time information obtained from the clock mechanism and the time in the bathtub A warming control unit that performs a warming operation by the warming execution unit until the warming end time determined by the warming end time determination unit is taken in, and the bathing information learning storage unit is predetermined When different water level rises occur alternately several times within the time interval, the number of people bathing together is estimated based on the change information of the magnitude of the water level rise, and the estimated number of people bathing together. Bathing information is learned and stored, and the heat insulation end time determination unit determines the heat insulation end time of the bathtub according to the estimated bathing end time of all users including the number of people bathing together A water heater with a water level sensor. In a hot water supply apparatus with a water level sensor having a hot water supply heat source, a hot water supply passage for guiding hot water supplied from the hot water supply source to the bathtub, and a water level sensor for detecting the water level in the bathtub, an integer multiple of one day (one or more Bathing information for estimating and learning and storing bathing information of all the users for each time on the time axis having a cycle of (integer multiple) based on bath water level information obtained from the water level sensor and time information obtained from a clock mechanism A learning storage unit, a chasing mechanism for chasing hot and cold water in the bathtub, a warming execution unit for chasing the bath water with the chasing mechanism and keeping the bath water temperature at or near the bath set temperature, and bathing A user number detection unit that grasps the number of users who use the bathtub within the time period from the first set time to the second set time with reference to the data in the information learning storage unit, and the bath water level obtained from the water level sensor A bathing end determination unit that determines whether or not all the bathing of the number of users has been completed after the first set time after the first set time, and the number of users of the user before the second set time by the bathing end determination unit When it is determined that all the bathing has been completed, control for ending the heat retaining operation by the heat retaining execution unit before the second set time and the number of users even after the second set time by the bathing end determining unit. when bathing is determined not to be completed and a said user said by the warmth execution unit until the number of bathing is completed kept operating insulation operation time performing at least one of control for extending the variable control unit, The bathing information learning storage unit is configured to enter together based on the change information of the level of water level rise when different water level rises occur alternately several times within a predetermined time interval. The number of people who are taking the bath, learning and storing bathing information on the assumption that the estimated number of people are bathing together, and the user number detecting unit is based on the stored data of the bathing information learning and storing unit, but the water level sensor with water heater shall be the feature that it has a structure in which to understand the user number of people, including the number of people bathing in the together if you are bathing together. The hot water start time detection unit that refers to the data in the bathing information learning storage unit and obtains the hot water start time of the bathtub corresponding to the estimated bathing start time of the user, and the time information obtained from the clock mechanism 3. A water level sensor according to claim 1, further comprising an automatic hot water filling execution unit that automatically supplies hot water from a hot water supply source at the hot water filling start time obtained by the hot water filling start time detection unit. With hot water supply device. Includes a cogeneration hot water supply source that supplies hot water accumulated in the hot water tank using the exhaust heat of the power generation device to one or more hot water supply destinations including the bathtub, and hot water created by heating the water to flow An auxiliary hot water supply heat source device having a function of supplying to one or more hot water supply destinations is provided side by side, and the heat storage amount of hot water in the hot water storage tank is determined based on monitor information related to detection of the heat storage amount of the operating status of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device. A hot water supply using a hot water storage tank of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device as a hot water supply heat source based on a heat storage amount detection unit for obtaining a corresponding value, a value detected by the heat storage amount detection unit, and hot water supply heat source switching control information given in advance The hot water supply device with a water level sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , further comprising a control device that controls an operation and a hot water supply operation using the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device as a hot water supply heat source. A hot water storage tank of a cogeneration hot water supply heat source device includes a water supply path for introducing water into the hot water storage tank and a hot water supply path for supplying hot water of the hot water storage tank, and the exhaust heat of the power generation apparatus is interposed between the hot water storage tank and the power generation apparatus. Alternatively, a means for heating the water in the hot water storage tank using the heat of the exhaust heat absorbing fluid of the power generator to make hot water is provided, and the hot water formed by the means is accumulated in the hot water storage tank. The hot water supply apparatus with a water level sensor according to claim 4 , wherein hot water is supplied to a hot water supply destination through the hot water supply path. The passage of hot water supplied from the hot water storage tank of the cogeneration hot water supply heat source device is connected to the water supply inlet of the auxiliary hot water supply heat source device, and when hot water is supplied using only the hot water of the hot water storage tank as a heat source, the hot water of the hot water storage tank is driven without heating. state of the auxiliary water heater heat source device level sensor with hot water supply device according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the via that forms a structure in which hot water to hot water destination. The hot water supply device with a water level sensor according to any one of claims 4 to 6 , wherein the power generation device is a fuel cell that generates electricity by reacting hydrogen and oxygen. The hot water supply device with a water level sensor according to any one of claims 4 to 6 , wherein the power generation device is a gas engine.

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