JP4518912B2 - Cogeneration system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention generates power according to an operation plan, heats water with the heat generated with the power generation, stores the heated hot water, supplies the stored hot water when necessary, and stores the stored hot water. The present invention relates to a cogeneration system that heats water and supplies hot water when water is insufficient. In particular, the present invention relates to a technology that guides a user to a reasonable operation method of a cogeneration system so that the user can live comfortably at a low cost.

  The cogeneration system consists of a power generation unit that generates electric power and generated heat, a heating path that heats water using the generated heat, a hot water tank that stores the heated hot water, and hot water and water stored in the hot water tank. A mixing unit that mixes water (cold water) and a heater that heats water that has passed through the mixing unit as necessary are provided. The cogeneration system uses hot water stored in a hot water tank heated by power generation heat, adjusted to an appropriate temperature when necessary, and used for hot water and hot water (hot water taps, bathtubs, showers, floor heating systems, etc.) Supply. If hot water having a temperature higher than the hot water temperature required at the hot water use location is stored in the hot water storage tank, the hot water sent from the hot water storage tank and tap water (cold water) are mixed with the mixing unit to cool to the required temperature. If hot water having a temperature lower than the hot water temperature required at the hot water use location is stored in the hot water storage tank, the hot water is heated by a heater. Even when heating with a heater, the amount of heat required is smaller than when heating tap water. The cogeneration system has high overall energy efficiency, and when the generated power and the heat generated by it are used effectively, it is cheaper and more comfortable to live than it is to purchase the necessary power and fuel for hot water heating separately. It becomes possible to do. Or it becomes possible to live comfortably at a lower cost than when heating to warm water with electric power.

The cogeneration system cannot increase or decrease the power generation output in such a short time. The amount of power generation cannot be increased or decreased in response to instantaneous fluctuations in power demand. The difference between the power demand and the power generation output is dealt with by selling power or purchasing power.
In the cogeneration system, the operation of the cogeneration system is based on the past power demand and heat demand so that the power generation output can be increased or decreased over time to roughly correspond to the temporal change in power demand. Means are provided for planning. For example, in a home cogeneration system that spends a long time at home, an operation plan for operating the cogeneration system during the summer day is drawn up in order to meet the demand for power for air conditioners in summer. In a home cogeneration system that is often absent during the day, an operation plan is established in which the cogeneration system is not operated during the day.
The cogeneration system demonstrates its true value when both power and heat are effectively utilized. On the other hand, the maximum amount of hot water stored is limited due to physical restrictions. If the cogeneration system continues to operate even after hot water has been stored up to the maximum amount, heat cannot be stored any further and the generated heat will not be used effectively. End up.

In order to demonstrate the true value of a cogeneration system, a certain amount of wisdom is required. Necessary running costs differ depending on whether the operation is successful or not. For example, if the cogeneration system is operated during the summer day, it will often be stored up to the maximum amount of hot water stored in the evening. In this case, if the bath is filled with water in the evening, the amount of hot water stored is reduced, and the amount of stored heat that can be stored thereafter is restored, and the true value of the cogeneration system can be exhibited after the evening. On the other hand, if you wait until the actual bathing time and fill the tub with water, the value of the cogeneration system will not be demonstrated after the hot water is stored up to the maximum amount of water stored. By adjusting the hot water supply time, the cogeneration system can demonstrate its true value, and it is possible to live comfortably at a lower cost than purchasing electricity.
The same can be said for the power demand period. If cleaning and washing are completed prior to the use of hot water for cooking and cleaning up, hot water can be obtained by power demand for cleaning and washing, and the relationship of using the hot water can be obtained later. The system can be demonstrated. If this is the reverse time relationship, the hot water is not sufficiently stored when hot water is used, so it may be heated by a heater, and then hot water that is not actually used may be stored. When using a cogeneration system, if the time relationship between electric power demand and hot water demand is well coordinated, it is possible to live comfortably at a lower cost than using the cogeneration system to demonstrate its true value and purchasing electricity. If the time relationship of demand is not well adjusted, the true value of the cogeneration system cannot be demonstrated, and it may be cheaper to buy electricity.

  The cogeneration system described in Patent Document 1 accumulates and stores the operation results, analyzes the operation results, and displays whether or not the heat demand can be covered by the amount of stored heat accompanying power generation when viewed on a daily basis. . If it is displayed that the amount of heat stored cannot cover the heat demand, the user can operate the cogeneration system within the range where the true value of the cogeneration system can be demonstrated by suppressing the consumption of hot water. Become. If it is displayed that the heat demand can be covered by the amount of heat stored, the user can cancel the effort to curb the consumption of hot water. For example, the set temperature of hot water floor heating is set lower to save energy Can be raised to a comfortable temperature.

JP 2000-88482 A

As mentioned above, when using a cogeneration system, if the time relationship between power demand and hot water demand is well adjusted, the true value of the cogeneration system can be demonstrated, and it is cheaper and more comfortable than buying power. I can live. If the time relationship between electric power demand and hot water demand is not adjusted well, the true value of the cogeneration system cannot be demonstrated, and it may be cheaper to purchase electricity.
The technology of Patent Document 1 displays whether or not heat demand can be covered by the amount of heat storage associated with power generation when viewed on a daily basis, but it remains that, and is useful for demonstrating the true value of the cogeneration system. It does not guide the time relationship between the demand for electricity and the demand for hot water. In the technique of Patent Document 1, for example, when hot water is filled in a bathtub in the evening, it is not guided that the cogeneration system can be continuously operated with high efficiency. Or it does not guide that the efficiency of the cogeneration system is improved by advancing the time of cleaning or washing.
There are various stages in energy conservation. Some energy savings are intended to reduce energy consumption as much as possible even with a little inconvenience, while others are weak enough to reasonably operate the cogeneration system within a range that does not impair the feeling of use. .
The rational operation of the cogeneration system depends on the level of energy saving required.
In the cogeneration system of Patent Document 1, it is limited to displaying whether the heat demand can be covered by the amount of heat storage associated with power generation when viewed on a daily basis, and to demonstrate the true value of the cogeneration system. It is not intended to guide the time relationship between beneficial power demand and hot water demand. It is not possible to provide guidance on how to operate a cogeneration system that is appropriate for the level of energy saving required.
An object of this invention is to provide the cogeneration system which guides the rational operation method of a cogeneration system according to the level of energy saving required.

The present invention generates power according to an operation plan, heats water with the heat generated with the power generation, stores the heated hot water, supplies the stored hot water when necessary, and stores the stored hot water. The present invention relates to a cogeneration system that heats water and supplies hot water when water is insufficient. The cogeneration system of the present invention is a storage means for accumulating and storing the operation results of the cogeneration system, a means for planning an operation plan for the cogeneration system based on the operation results stored and stored by the storage means, The rationality of the cogeneration system based on the energy saving level input and the energy saving level input by the input means and the determination of the excess or deficiency state of the heat storage amount during operation or at the end of the operation according to the operation plan planned by the planning means Guiding means for guiding the operation method is provided.
According to the present invention, an operation plan for a cogeneration system is drawn up based on past operation results. On the other hand, a display for guiding a rational operation method of the cogeneration system based on the energy saving level is displayed.
When the user operates according to the guidance, it is possible to improve the operation to the side that demonstrates the true value of the cogeneration system. At this time, the energy saving level desired by the user is taken into consideration. For example, if you want to save energy within the range that does not impair comfort, and if the maximum amount of heat is temporarily stored, you may not be able to store any more heat by increasing the filling time in the bathtub. Operation to prevent this is guided. If the user wants to save energy, he / she guides that the efficiency of the cogeneration system is improved by suppressing the power consumption before the time when the heat storage amount reaches the maximum heat storage amount. If he wants to save energy, and the amount of heat storage becomes zero at the end of the day, he will be guided to reduce the amount of hot water used during showers.

It is preferable that a means for reserving the bath water filling operation time and a means for correcting the operation plan based on the reserved time of the bath water filling operation reserved by the reservation means are added.
The operation plan drafting means drafts an operation plan based on the past operation record of the cogeneration system. The amount of hot water filling in the bathtub is a considerable amount with respect to the maximum heat storage amount, and the change pattern of the heat storage amount varies greatly depending on the time when the bath water filling operation is performed. As described above, when the maximum heat storage amount is temporarily reached, guidance for advancing the hot water filling time to the bathtub is provided. The user can make a reservation for the bathing time according to the guidance. When the reserved time of the hot water operation reserved by the reservation means differs from the actual time, it is preferable to correct the operation plan based on the reserved time. By amending, it can be amended to a more rational operation plan.

In the case where the operation plan is corrected based on the reserved time of the bathtub hot water operation, it is preferable that a re-guiding unit for re-guidance of the operation method of the cogeneration system based on the corrected operation plan is added.
For example, according to an operation plan based on results, the maximum heat storage amount may be obtained in the evening, and heat storage may not be possible beyond that. In that case, at the time of the first guidance, guidance is made so as to “reserve the bath hot water operation time before the maximum heat storage amount”. When the user reserves the time for the bath hot water operation according to the guidance, the maximum heat storage amount can be prevented, and the occurrence of a situation where the generated heat cannot be stored any more can be prevented. The operation planning means corrects the operation plan accordingly. This makes it possible to store the generated heat even in the evening. As a result, the power generation amount of the cogeneration system increases. As a result of the increase in the power generation amount of the cogeneration system, when heat is stored more than the heat demand, for example, the operation of “heating with warm water instead of heating with electricity” is guided again. As a result, the balance between the power demand and the heat demand is improved to a balance suitable for the cogeneration system, and the operation in which the true value of the cogeneration system is increasingly exhibited is improved.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described.
(Form 1) It has three stages of energy saving, and guides the operation method according to each level.
(Form 2) The three levels are:
(1) Normal mode (weak energy saving level) that realizes energy saving within the range that does not impair the usability,
(2) A saving mode (strong energy saving level) that realizes energy saving even at the expense of some use feeling,
(3) It is a rational mode (intermediate energy saving level) that realizes energy saving at an intermediate level between the two.
(Form 3) The system operation method is divided into the following cases and guided:
(1) When the heat storage amount remains at the end of the system operation, but temporarily the heat storage amount is insufficient.
(2) When not only the amount of heat storage remains at the end of system operation, but also reaches the maximum heat storage amount on the way and cannot store heat any further.
(3) When the amount of heat storage remains at the end of system operation, but does not fall under (1) or (2).
(4) When the amount of heat storage is insufficient at the end of system operation.

An embodiment embodying the cogeneration system of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
As shown in FIG. 1, the cogeneration system of the present embodiment includes a power generation unit 110, a hot water supply system 10, and the like.
The power generation unit 110 includes a reformer 112, a fuel cell 114, heat exchangers 116 and 118, a heat medium radiator 120, a heat medium three-way valve 122, a path connecting them, and the like.
The reformer 112 is provided with a burner 131. When the burner 131 is operated to generate heat, the reformer 112 generates hydrogen gas from hydrocarbon-based gas. The high-temperature combustion gas burned by the burner 131 is guided to the combustion gas path 126. The combustion gas path 126 passes through the heat exchanger 116 from the reformer 112 and is opened to the outside. A circulation path 128 also passes through the heat exchanger 116. The combustion gas path 126 guides the high-temperature combustion gas generated in the burner 131 to the heat exchanger 116, heats the water flowing through the circulation path 128, and discharges the combustion gas whose temperature has been lowered by heat exchange to the outside.
The circulation path 128 includes a circulation return path 128 a and a circulation outward path 128 b and is connected to the hot water supply system 10. How the circulation path 128 is connected to the hot water supply system 10 will be described in detail later. The circulation path 128 circulates hot water. The hot water flowing through the circulation path 128 is heated by the combustion gas flowing through the combustion gas path 126 by passing through the heat exchanger 116, and the temperature rises.

The fuel cell 114 has a plurality of cells. The fuel cell 114 and the reformer 112 are connected by a hydrogen gas supply path 121. The hydrogen gas generated by the reformer 114 flows through the hydrogen gas supply path 121 and is supplied to the fuel cell 114. The fuel cell 114 generates power by reacting the hydrogen gas supplied from the reformer 112 with oxygen in the air. When the fuel cell 114 generates power, it generates heat.
The heat medium circulation path 124 forms a circulation path that returns to the fuel cell 114 through the fuel cell 114, the heat exchanger 118, the reserve tank 125, the heat medium pump 127, and the heat medium three-way valve 122. A heat medium temperature sensor 117 is mounted on the downstream side of the fuel cell 114 in the heat medium circulation path 124. The heat medium temperature sensor 117 detects the temperature of the heat medium flowing through the heat medium circulation path 124. The detection signal of the heat medium temperature sensor 117 is output to the controller 21 attached to the hot water supply system 10.
The heat medium three-way valve 122 includes one inlet 122a and two outlets 122b and 122c. The heat medium three-way valve 122 switches between communication between the inlet 122a and the outlet 122b or communication between the inlet 122a and the outlet 122c.
A cooling path 129 that connects the outlet 122b of the heat medium three-way valve 122 and the downstream side of the outlet 122c of the heat medium three-way valve 122 of the heat medium circulation path 124 is provided. The heat medium circulation path 124 and the cooling path 129 circulate pure water as a heat medium. A heat medium radiator 120 is mounted in the middle of the cooling path 129. A heat medium cooling fan 119 is provided adjacent to the heat medium radiator 120. When the heat medium cooling fan 119 is operated, air is blown to the heat medium radiator 120, and the heat medium flowing through the cooling path 129 is cooled.
The reformer 112, the fuel cell 114, the burner 131, the heat medium three-way valve 122, the heat medium pump 127, and the heat medium cooling fan 119 are controlled by the controller 21.

When the fuel cell 114 is activated, the inlet 122a and the outlet 122c of the heat medium three-way valve 122 are communicated and the heat medium pump 127 is operated. When the heat medium pump 127 is operated, the heat medium circulates through the heat medium circulation path 124. The heat generation medium is recovered from the fuel cell 114 by circulating the heat medium through the heat medium circulation path 124. The generated heat recovered by the heat medium is transported together with the heat medium to the heat exchanger 118 and heats the hot water flowing through the circulation path 128. The circulation path 128 will be described later.
If the temperature of the heat medium detected by the heat medium temperature sensor 117 becomes too high, the generated heat is not sufficiently recovered, so that the generated heat is dissipated. The inlet 122a and outlet 122b of the heat medium three-way valve 122 are communicated with each other, and the heat medium cooling fan 119 is operated at the same time. When the inlet 122 a and the outlet 122 b of the heat medium three-way valve 122 communicate with each other, the heat medium flows into the cooling path 129 and passes through the heat medium radiator 120. The heat medium is cooled by passing through the heat medium radiator 120. The heat medium radiator 120 radiates heat with high efficiency when air is blown from the heat medium cooling fan 119. When the temperature of the heat medium decreases, the inlet 122a and the outlet 122c of the heat medium three-way valve 122 are communicated again. By repeating such switching of the heat medium three-way valve 122, the temperature of the heat medium is maintained within a predetermined range.

The hot water supply system 10 includes a hot water tank 20, a hot water heater (heater) 22, a mixing unit (mixer) 24, a plurality of paths that connect these, a controller 21, and the like.
A water supply path 26 for supplying tap water to the hot water tank 20 is connected to the bottom of the hot water tank 20. In the vicinity of the inlet 26 a of the water supply path 26, a pressure reducing valve 28 is attached. The downstream side of the pressure reducing valve 28 in the water supply path 26 and the water supply inlet 24 a of the mixing unit 24 are connected by a mixing unit water supply path 30. The pressure reducing valve 28 adjusts the water supply pressure to the hot water tank 20 and the mixing unit 24. When the hot water in the hot water storage tank 20 decreases or the water supply inlet 24a of the mixing unit 24 opens, the downstream pressure of the pressure reducing valve 28 decreases. The pressure reducing valve 28 opens when the downstream pressure decreases, and tries to maintain the pressure at a predetermined pressure regulation value. For this reason, when the hot water in the hot water storage tank 20 decreases or the water supply inlet 24a of the mixing unit 24 opens, tap water is supplied to them.
The hot water storage tank 20 stores water regulated to a regulated pressure value. The hot water tank 20 is formed of a pressure resistant container that can withstand the pressure regulation value. An outlet 20a is provided at the upper part of the hot water tank 20, and a relief valve 31 is mounted thereon. The valve opening pressure of the relief valve 31 is set slightly higher than the pressure regulation value of the pressure reducing valve 28. When the pressure regulation of the pressure reducing valve 28 becomes impossible, the relief valve 31 is opened to prevent the pressure in the hot water tank 20 from exceeding the pressure resistance. One end 32 a of a pressure release path 32 is connected to the relief valve 31. The other end 32 b of the pressure release path 32 is open to the outside of the hot water tank 20.
A drainage path 33 that connects the bottom of the hot water tank 20 and the vicinity of the other end 32 b of the pressure release path 32 is provided. A drain valve 34 is attached in the middle of the drain path 33. The drain valve 34 can be manually opened and closed. When the drain valve 34 is opened, the water in the hot water tank 20 is drained to the outside through the drain path 33 and the open path 32.

The hot water tank 20 is connected to the circulation path 128 (circulation return path 128a, circulation forward path 128b) of the power generation unit 110. Specifically, the circulation return path 128 a is connected to the upper part of the hot water tank 20, and the circulation forward path 128 b is connected to the lower part of the hot water tank 20. Thereby, a circulation path between the hot water tank 20 and the power generation unit 110 is formed. A circulation pump 40 is mounted in the middle of the circulation outward path 128b. A return thermistor 45 is attached to the circulation return path 128a, and an outward thermistor 44 is attached to the circulation outward path 128b. The return thermistor 45 detects the temperature of hot water in the circulation return path 128a, and the outward thermistor 44 detects the temperature of hot water in the circulation return path 128b. Detection signals from the return thermistor 45 and the outward thermistor 44 are output to the controller 21.
When the circulation pump 40 is activated, hot water is sucked out from the bottom of the hot water tank 20. The hot water sucked from the hot water storage tank 20 is heated by passing through the heat exchangers 118 and 116 of the power generation unit 110 after flowing through the circulation outward path 128b, and the temperature rises. The hot water whose temperature has risen flows through the circulation return path 128 a and is returned to the upper part of the hot water tank 20. In this way, the hot water sucked from the bottom of the hot water tank 20 is heated by the heat exchangers 118 and 116 of the power generation unit 110 to become higher temperature, and the circulation returning to the upper part of the hot water tank 20 is performed. Hot water is stored in the hot water tank 20. When the hot water from the power generation unit 110 is returned to the hot water tank 20 from the state where the temperature in the hot water tank 20 is low, the hot water is returned to the upper part of the hot water tank 20, so that the high temperature layer is formed above the cold water layer. Is formed (hereinafter referred to as “temperature stratification”). The temperature of water deeper than the high temperature layer drops rapidly. During power generation, when the low temperature hot water is sucked out from the bottom of the hot water tank 20 and the high temperature hot water continues to be returned to the top, the high temperature layer does not cross with the low temperature layer, and the thickness (depth) of the low temperature layer gradually increases. It becomes smaller and the thickness (depth) of the high temperature layer becomes gradually larger. In a state where the hot water storage tank 20 is fully stored, hot hot water is stored in the entire hot water storage tank 20. By forming the temperature stratification, high-temperature hot water is sent out from the outlet portion 20a provided at the uppermost portion of the hot water storage tank 20 even if the hot water storage tank 20 is not fully stored. On the other hand, when hot water in the hot water tank 20 is used, hot hot water at the top of the hot water tank 20 is sucked out, and when tap water enters from the bottom, the thickness (depth) of the high temperature layer gradually decreases, and the low temperature layer The thickness (depth) of the film gradually increases. When the hot water in the hot water tank 20 is used up, the hot water tank 20 is filled with tap water.

  The controller 21 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like, and the power generation unit 110 and the hot water supply system 10 are controlled by the CPU processing a control program stored in the ROM. The RAM temporarily stores various signals input to the controller 21 and various data generated in the course of execution of processing by the CPU. A remote controller 23 is connected to the controller 21. The remote controller 23 is provided with switches and buttons for operating the power generation unit 110 and the hot water supply system 10, a liquid crystal display for displaying the operation state of the power generation unit 110 and the hot water supply system 10 and displaying an operation method described later. Yes.

  An upper thermistor 35 is attached to a location 5 liters from the upper part of the hot water tank 20, and a lower thermistor 36 is attached to the lower part. The upper thermistor 35 and the lower thermistor 36 detect the temperature in the hot water tank 20. Detection signals from the upper thermistor 35 and the lower thermistor 36 are output to the controller 21. The detected temperature of the upper thermistor 35 and the detected temperature of the lower thermistor 36 are used not only for hot water temperature control but also for calculating the heat storage amount. The calculated heat storage amount is stored over time in a storage unit prepared in the controller 21.

  The mixing unit 24 includes a hot water inlet 24c, a mixed water outlet 24b, a first flow rate sensor 67, a hot water thermistor 50, a water supply thermistor 48, a mixed water thermistor 54, a high-cut thermistor 55, and the water supply inlet 24a already described. The outlet 20 a of the hot water tank 20 and the hot water inlet 24 c of the mixing unit 24 are connected by a hot water path 42. The first flow sensor 67 detects the flow rate of the mixed water flowing out from the mixed water outlet 24b. The hot water thermistor 50 detects the temperature of the hot water flowing into the hot water inlet 24c. The water supply thermistor 48 detects the temperature of the tap water flowing into the water supply inlet 24a. The mixed water thermistor 54 and the high cut thermistor 55 detect the temperature of the mixed water flowing out from the mixed water outlet 24b. Detection signals from the first flow sensor 67, the hot water thermistor 50, the feed water thermistor 48, the mixed water thermistor 54, and the high cut thermistor 55 are output to the controller 21.

The controller 21 uses the detection signal of the mixed water thermistor 54 to change the opening on the hot water inlet 24c side and the opening on the water supply inlet 24a side. When the opening degree on the hot water inlet 24c side and the opening degree on the water supply inlet 24a side are changed, the mixing ratio between the hot water from the hot water storage tank 20 and tap water (cold water) is adjusted. When the mixing ratio between the hot water from the hot water tank 20 and the tap water is adjusted, the temperature of the hot water flowing out from the mixed water outlet 24b is maintained at a predetermined value.
By using the controller 21 and the mixing unit 24 in combination, the temperature of the mixed water measured by the mixed water thermistor 54 is adjusted to the temperature commanded by the controller 21.
When it is detected by the high-cut thermistor 55 that the hot water has greatly exceeded the predetermined value (that is, when there is a high possibility that the mixed water thermistor 54 or the mixing unit 24 has failed), the controller 21 opens the hot water inlet 24c. close. When the hot water inlet 24c is closed, the hot water having a temperature that greatly exceeds the predetermined value is prevented from being supplied to the water heater 22.
The mixed water outlet 24 b of the mixing unit 24 and a burner heat exchanger 52 (described later) of the water heater 22 are connected by a hot water path 51. A second flow rate sensor 47 is attached to the hot water path 51. A detection signal from the second flow sensor 47 is output to the controller 21.

The water heater 22 includes burner heat exchangers 52 and 60, burners 56 and 57, a reheating heat exchanger 58, a replenishing water valve 59, a cistern 61, and the like. Hot water flows from the mixing unit 24 into the burner heat exchanger 52 via the hot water path 51. The gas combustion type burner 56 heats the burner heat exchanger 52. When the burner 56 receives an ignition instruction from the controller 21, it starts combustion after performing a pre-purge operation. The time required for the pre-purge is set based on the size and rotational speed of the combustion fan, the capacity of the portion where the combustion gas of the burners 56 and 57 passes through the burner heat exchangers 52 and 60, and is exhausted to the outside of the apparatus. 21 is stored. The pre-purge usually takes several seconds. In the burner 56 of this embodiment, the time for the pre-purge is 1.5 seconds.
The downstream side of the burner heat exchanger 52 and the hot water tap 64 are connected by a hot water tap path 63. The hot-water tap 64 is arranged in a bathroom, a washroom, a kitchen, etc. (in FIG. 1, the plurality of hot-water taps 64 are represented by one). A hot water supply thermistor 65 is attached to the hot water supply passage 63. The hot water supply thermistor 65 detects the temperature of hot water flowing out of the burner heat exchanger 52. A detection signal from the hot water supply thermistor 65 is output to the controller 21.

From the middle of the hot water path 51 in the water heater 22, a systern water inlet path 62 is branched. The open end of the cistern water intake path 62 is inserted into the upper part of the cistern 61. A makeup water valve 59 is provided in the middle of the cistern water intake path 62. The makeup water valve 59 is controlled by the controller 21 and opens and closes when a built-in solenoid is driven. When the replenishing water valve 59 is opened, hot water from the mixing unit 24 is supplied to the cistern 61.
A water level electrode 66 is mounted in the cis turn 61. The water level electrode 66 has a rod-shaped high level switch 66a and a low level switch 66b. The lower end of the high level switch 66 a is located at the high level water level of the cistern 61. The lower end of the low level switch 66 b is located at the low level water level of the cistern 61. The high level switch 66a and the low level switch 66b output a detection signal to the controller 21 when they are in contact with water. Based on the detection signal from the water level electrode 66, the controller 21 determines whether the water level of the cistern 61 exceeds the high level water level, is between the high level water level and the low level water level, or is lower than the low level water level. What is appropriate as the cis turn 61 is a state where the water level is located between the high level and the low level. The controller 21 controls opening / closing of the replenishing water valve 59 based on the water level detection signal from the water level electrode 66 and maintains the water level of the cistern 61 within an appropriate range.

One end of a cistern water discharge path 68 is connected to the bottom of the cistern 61. A heating pump 69 is installed in the middle of the cistern water discharge path 68. The heating pump 69 is controlled by the controller 21. The other end of the cistern water discharge path 68 branches into a burner upstream path 71 and a low-temperature water path 70. The burner upstream path 71 connects the cistern water discharge path 68 and the upstream side of the burner heat exchanger 60. A heating low temperature thermistor 72 that detects the temperature of the hot water flowing inside is installed in the burner upstream path 71. A detection signal of the heating low temperature thermistor 72 is output to the controller 21.
The gas combustion type burner 57 heats the burner heat exchanger 60. The downstream of the burner heat exchanger 60 and the cistern 61 are connected by a high-temperature water path 73. A heating high temperature thermistor 74, a heating terminal thermal valve 75, and a heating terminal 76 are attached to the high temperature water path 73 in order from the upstream side.
The heating high temperature thermistor 74 detects the temperature of the hot water flowing through the high temperature water path 73. A detection signal of the heating high temperature thermistor 74 is output to the controller 21.

The heating terminal 76 includes a heat exchanger 76b, an operation switch 76a, and an electric fan (not shown). The heat exchanger 76b performs heat exchange between the hot water flowing through the high temperature water path 73 and the air. The operation switch 76 a is connected to the heating terminal thermal valve 75 and the controller 21.
The heating terminal thermal valve 75 includes an expansion element and an on-off valve mechanically connected to the expansion element. When the operation switch 76a of the heating terminal 76 is turned on, power is supplied to the expansion element of the heating terminal thermal valve 75. The energized expansion element becomes hot and expands. The expanded expansion element drives the on-off valve, thereby opening the heating terminal thermal valve 75. Further, when the operation switch 76 a is turned on, the controller 21 operates the heating pump 69. As described above, when the operation switch 76a is turned on, the heating terminal thermal valve 75 is opened, and when the heating pump 69 is activated, hot water is sucked from the cistern 61. The controller 21 controls the burner 57 based on the hot water temperature detected by the heating low temperature thermistor 72 and the heating high temperature thermistor 74, and maintains the temperature of the hot water flowing out of the burner heat exchanger 60 within a predetermined range. The electric fan of the heating terminal 76 rotates when the operation switch 76a is turned on, and blows air to the heat exchanger 76b. The air blown to the heat exchanger 76b is warmed by exchanging heat with warm water via the heat exchanger 76b. Warmed air blows out from the heating terminal 76 to heat the room. By performing heat exchange with the air in the heat exchanger 76b, the temperature of the hot water decreases. The warm water whose temperature has decreased flows through the high-temperature water path 73 and returns to the cistern 61.

The downstream side of the heating high temperature thermistor 74 in the high temperature water path 73 and the upstream side of the entrance to the cistern 61 in the high temperature water path 73 are connected by a tracking path 77. The tracking path 77 passes through the tracking heat exchanger 58. On the upstream side of the tracking heat exchanger 58 in the tracking path 77, a tracking thermal valve 78 is mounted. The reheating heat valve 78 is controlled by the controller 21.
The bathtub 79 is provided with a suction port 79a and a supply port 79b. The suction port 79 a and the supply port 79 b are connected by a bath circulation path 80. The bath circulation path 80 passes through the reheating heat exchanger 58. As described above, the tracking path 77 also passes through the tracking heat exchanger 58. For this reason, in the reheating heat exchanger 58, heat exchange is performed between the bath circulation path 80 and the reheating path 77. A bath water level sensor 81, a bath circulation pump 82, and a bath water flow switch 84 are mounted on the upstream side of the reheating heat exchanger 58 in the bath circulation path 80. The bath circulation pump 82 is controlled by the controller 21. The bath water level sensor 81 and the bath water flow switch 84 output detection signals to the controller 21. The bath water level sensor 81 detects water pressure. The controller 21 estimates the water level of the hot water stretched on the bathtub 79 from the water pressure detected by the bath water level sensor 81. The bath water flow switch 84 is turned on when water flows through the bath circulation path 80.
On the upstream side of the bath water level sensor 81 in the bath circulation path 80, a bath thermistor 85 that detects the temperature of hot water sucked out from the bathtub 79 is mounted. The detection signal of the bath thermistor 85 is output to the controller 21.

  When the reheating heat valve 78 is opened while the burner 57 and the heating pump 69 are operating, the hot water flows into the reheating path 77 and passes through the reheating heat exchanger 58. When the bath circulation pump 82 is activated, the hot water is sucked out from the suction port 79a of the bathtub 79, flows through the bath circulation path 80, and returns to the bathtub 79 from the supply port 79b again. The hot water flowing through the bath circulation path 80 is heated by the hot water flowing through the chasing path 77 by the chasing heat exchanger 58 and the hot water in the bathtub 79 is chased.

A hot water filling path 25 that connects the middle of the hot-water tap path 63 and the downstream side of the bath circulation pump 82 of the bath circulation path 80 is provided. A solenoid drive type pouring valve 27 and a hot water filling amount sensor 83 are attached to the hot water filling passage 25. The pouring valve 27 is controlled by the controller 21 and opens and closes the hot water filling path 25. The hot water filling amount sensor 83 detects the amount of water flowing through the hot water filling route 25 to estimate how much the hot water filling operation has been performed to the bathtub 79. The hot water filling amount sensor 83 outputs a detection signal to the controller 21.
When hot water is filled in the bathtub 79, the hot water pouring valve 27 is opened. When the pouring valve 27 is opened, hot water flows from the hot water tap path 63 through the hot water filling path 25 into the bath circulation path 80. Hot water that has flowed into the bath circulation path 80 is supplied to the bathtub 79 from the suction port 79 a and the supply port 79 b, and is filled in the bathtub 79. At this time, the bath circulation pump 82 is not driven, and the hot water filling operation to the bathtub 79 is performed by the water pressure applied to the hot water filling passage 25.

A three-way valve 86 is incorporated in the low temperature water path 70. The three-way valve 86 includes an A port 86a, a B port 86b, and a C port 86c. The three-way valve 86 is controlled by the controller 21 to switch between communication between the A port 86a and the C port 86c or communication between the B port 86b and the C port 86c.
The cistern water discharge path 68 and the C port 86 c of the three-way valve 86 are connected by a low-temperature water path 70. In the middle of the low-temperature water path 70, a low-temperature thermistor 94, a floor heating thermal valve 90, and a floor heater 91 are provided. The low temperature thermistor 94 detects the temperature of the hot water flowing through the low temperature water path 70. The detection signal of the low temperature thermistor 94 is output to the controller 21. The floor heating thermal valve 90 is controlled by the controller 21. The floor heater 91 warms the floor with warm water flowing through the low-temperature water path 70.
The upstream side of the heating terminal thermal valve 75 in the high temperature water path 73 and the downstream side of the floor heater 91 in the low temperature water path 70 are connected by a bypass path 92. A bypass thermal valve 93 is mounted in the middle of the bypass path 92. The bypass thermal valve 93 is controlled to open and close by the controller 21.
When performing floor heating, the floor heating thermal valve 90 is opened, and the hot water is guided to the floor heater 91. The guided hot water warms the floor heater 91. When floor heating is not performed, the floor heating thermal valve 90 is closed.
A low temperature water return path 87 is provided and connects the B port 86 b of the three-way valve 86 and the downstream side of the heating terminal 76 of the high temperature water path 73. A low temperature return thermistor 89 is attached to the low temperature water return path 87. The low temperature return thermistor 89 detects the temperature of the hot water flowing through the low temperature water return path 87. The detection signal of the low temperature return thermistor 89 is output to the controller 21.
A hot water tank path 88 is provided to connect the A port 86a of the three-way valve 86 and the middle of the low-temperature water return path 87. In the hot water tank path 88, a heat exchanging portion 88a passing through the upper part of the hot water tank 20 is formed.

  The controller 21 compares the temperatures detected by the low temperature return thermistor 89 and the upper thermistor 35 and switches the three-way valve 86 according to the result. Specifically, when the temperature detected by the upper thermistor 35 is lower than the temperature detected by the low temperature return thermistor 89, the B port 86b and the C port 86c of the three-way valve 86 are switched to communicate with each other. When the B port 86 b and the C port 86 c communicate with each other, the hot water from the low temperature water path 70 bypasses the hot water tank path 88, flows through the low temperature water return path 87 and the high temperature water path 73, and returns to the cistern 61. The hot water that has returned to the cistern 61 is sucked into the cistern water discharge path 68 again. When the temperature detected by the upper thermistor 35 is higher than the temperature detected by the low temperature return thermistor 89, the A port 86a and the C port 86c of the three-way valve 86 are communicated. When the A port 86 a and the C port 86 c communicate with each other, the hot water from the low temperature water path 70 flows through the hot water tank path 88. The hot water flowing through the hot water tank path 88 is heated by the hot water stored in the upper part of the hot water tank 20 in the heat exchange section 88a, and the temperature rises. The hot water whose temperature has risen flows through the low-temperature water return path 87 and the high-temperature water path 73 and is returned to the cistern 61. That is, the hot water is guided to the hot water tank path 88 only when the hot water stored in the upper part of the hot water tank 20 can heat the heat exchanging portion 88 a of the hot water tank path 88.

  In the cogeneration system of the present embodiment, data on the electric power demand, the heat demand, and the heat storage amount during operation are stored every hour. As for the power demand amount and heat demand amount data, an integrated value for one hour is stored. A value for every hour is stored as the heat storage amount data. These data are accumulated for 4 weeks. Data is newly added every operation day, and data of the oldest day is deleted, so that data for 4 weeks is always held. In this embodiment, in addition to these data, the power generation amount, the heat recovery amount, the temperature, the water temperature, and the like are also stored. In this specification, various data necessary for the operation of the system are collectively referred to as operation performance data. The operation result data is stored in the storage device of the controller 21.

The cogeneration system of the present embodiment makes an operation plan for the cogeneration system based on the operation results accumulated and stored in the storage device of the controller 21. The computer of the controller 21 makes an operation plan.
The cogeneration system according to the present embodiment can select an energy saving level from three types of energy saving levels according to the lifestyle and preferences of the user. The user inputs an energy saving level using the remote controller 23.
The cogeneration system according to the present embodiment has an advice function for guiding a user how to rationally operate the cogeneration system. A rational operation method is displayed on the remote controller 23. When the user operates the cogeneration system according to the displayed operation method, the true value of the cogeneration system is exhibited, and energy saving can be effectively realized.
The above will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S10 shown in FIG. 2, an operation plan for one day of the cogeneration system is drawn up based on the operation results accumulated and stored in the storage device of the controller 21. This system is primarily for home use and stops operation while power demand falls. The operation is usually stopped once every 24 hours. In step S10, an operation plan for the next 24 hours is made based on the past operation results. In step S10, an operation plan is made from the average value of the operation result data for four days on the same day of the past operation result data. In step S10, an operation plan that generally follows changes in power demand over time is drawn up.
In step S12, it is determined whether or not an energy saving mode has been selected by the user. There are three energy saving modes: “normal mode”, “saving mode”, and “rational mode”. Each energy saving mode will be described later. If the energy saving mode is selected (YES in step S12), the process proceeds to step S14. If the energy saving mode is not selected (NO in step S12), the process proceeds to step S28, the system is operated according to the planned operation plan, and the process is terminated.

In steps S14 to S22, operation advice suitable for the energy saving mode selected by the user is provided when the planned operation plan is used.
In step S14, it is determined whether or not the normal mode is selected. If the normal mode is selected (YES in step S14), the process proceeds to step S16, and advice in the normal mode described later with reference to FIG. 3 is performed. If the normal mode is not selected in step S14 (NO), it is determined whether or not the saving mode is selected. If the saving mode is selected (YES in step S18), the process proceeds to step S20, and advice is given in the saving mode, which will be described later with reference to FIG. If the saving mode is not selected in step S18 (if NO), the rational mode is selected, and the process proceeds to step S22 to give advice in the rational mode, which will be described later with reference to FIG. .
These advices are displayed on the liquid crystal display of the remote controller 23 of the controller 21.

  As shown in FIG. 3, in the normal mode, it is determined in step S40 whether or not the heat storage amount at the end of the operation according to the planned operation plan is positive. If the heat storage amount at the end of the operation is negative (NO in step S40), it indicates that the heat storage amount is insufficient with respect to the heat demand. Accordingly, the process proceeds to step S48, and a display for permitting power consumption is performed to prompt the user to consume power. In accordance with this guidance, the user can operate, for example, using an electric heater instead of heating with hot water. By improving the operation to increase the power demand according to this guidance, the amount of power generation can be increased to reduce the heat demand, and the shortage of the heat storage amount relative to the heat demand amount can be alleviated or eliminated.

In step S40, according to the planned operation plan, when the heat storage amount at the end of the operation is positive (in the case of YES), it indicates that the heat storage amount is satisfied with respect to the heat demand at the end of the operation. . In this case, the process proceeds to step S42, and it is determined whether or not the heat storage amount becomes “temporarily” negative during operation according to the planned operation plan. The fact that the amount of heat storage temporarily becomes negative during operation (YES in step S42) means that the power demand ahead of the heat demand is insufficient, but then the power consumption proceeds and the power generation amount increases. As a result, the heat storage amount increases and turns to a positive value (YES in step S40). Accordingly, the display proceeds to step S50 to recommend that the power consumption be accelerated, and prompts the user to advance the timing of power consumption. By operating according to this advice, it is possible to alleviate or eliminate the temporary decrease in heat storage.
In step S42, if the heat storage amount is never negative during operation according to the planned operation plan (if NO), it is confirmed that the heat storage amount is always satisfied with respect to the heat demand until the end of operation. Show. In this case, the process proceeds to step S44, and it is determined whether or not the heat storage amount temporarily reaches the maximum heat storage amount during operation according to the planned operation plan. If the amount of stored heat reaches the maximum amount of stored heat during operation, it will not be possible to store heat thereafter. For this reason, it is necessary to drive the heat medium cooling fan 119 of the power generation unit 110 to radiate the generated heat from the heat medium radiator 120. However, heat dissipation of the generated heat should be avoided because it leads to a decrease in energy efficiency. When the heat storage amount reaches the maximum heat storage allowance “temporarily” during operation (YES in step S44), the display proceeds to step S52 to recommend that the power consumption be delayed, and the power is supplied to the user. Encourage delays in consumption. By operating according to this advice, the peak of power consumption can be leveled and the occurrence of a situation where the heat storage amount temporarily reaches the maximum heat storage amount can be prevented.
In step S44, if the heat storage amount does not reach the maximum heat storage amount during operation according to the planned operation plan (if NO), the heat storage amount during operation is always positive, and the heat storage amount with respect to the heat demand amount. Indicates that it is always satisfied. In the cogeneration system, the maximum thermal efficiency can be obtained by using up the amount of stored heat. If there is a surplus of heat storage, the process proceeds to step S46, where a display for permitting heat consumption is performed to prompt the user to consume heat. In accordance with this guidance, the user can operate, for example, heating with hot water instead of using an electric heater. By improving the operation to increase the heat demand according to this guidance, the heat demand can be increased and the power demand can be decreased, and the excess phenomenon of the heat storage amount with respect to the heat demand amount can be reduced or eliminated.
As described above, in the normal mode, guidance that leads to the time relationship between the electric power demand and the hot water demand at which the true value of the cogeneration system is exhibited is displayed within a range that does not impair the usability. Energy saving can be realized without impairing the feeling of use.

As shown in FIG. 4, in the saving mode, in step S60, it is determined whether or not the heat storage amount at the end of the operation according to the planned operation plan is positive. When the heat storage amount at the end of the operation is negative (NO in step S60), it indicates that the heat storage amount is insufficient with respect to the heat demand. Accordingly, the process proceeds to step S68 to display a recommendation for saving the heat consumption to prompt the user to save the heat consumption. The user saves the amount of hot water used when using the shower, or reduces the heat demand by reducing the set temperature of the floor heating. By improving the operation in accordance with this advice, the heat demand can be reduced to suppress the decrease in the amount of stored heat, and the shortage of the stored heat amount can be alleviated or eliminated.
In step S60, when the heat storage amount at the end of the operation according to the planned operation plan is positive (when it is YES), it indicates that the heat storage amount is satisfied with respect to the heat demand at the end of the operation. In this case, the process proceeds to step S62, and it is determined whether or not the heat storage amount becomes “temporarily” negative during operation according to the planned operation plan. The fact that the amount of heat stored temporarily becomes negative during operation (YES in step S62) means that the heat demand is too fast compared to the power demand, and then the power consumption proceeds and the power generation amount increases. As a result, the heat storage amount increases and turns to a positive value (YES in step S60). Accordingly, the display proceeds to step S70 to recommend that the heat consumption be delayed to prompt the user to delay the timing of heat consumption. By operating according to this advice, it is possible to alleviate or eliminate the temporary decrease in heat storage.
In step S62, if the heat storage amount is not negative during operation according to the planned operation plan (if NO), it indicates that the heat storage amount is always satisfied with respect to the heat demand until the end of operation. Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S64, and it is determined whether or not the heat storage amount temporarily reaches the maximum heat storage amount during operation according to the planned operation plan. If the amount of stored heat reaches the maximum amount of stored heat during operation, it will not be possible to store heat thereafter. If the heat storage amount reaches the maximum heat storage amount “temporarily” during operation (YES in step S64), the process proceeds to step S72 to prompt the user to advance the timing of heat consumption. By operating according to this advice, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a situation where the heat storage amount reaches the maximum heat storage amount during operation.
If the heat storage amount does not reach the maximum heat storage amount during operation according to the planned operation plan in step S64 (if NO), the heat storage amount during operation is always positive, and the heat storage amount with respect to the heat demand amount. Indicates that it is always satisfied. Excessive heat storage can be regarded as an excess of power generation. Thermal efficiency can be improved by reducing the amount of power generation that is excessive. Accordingly, the process proceeds to step S66, where a display for recommending saving of power consumption is performed to prompt the user to save power consumption. By operating in accordance with this advice, it is possible to reduce or eliminate the amount of power generation and excess heat storage at the end of operation.
As described above, in the saving mode, advice for performing an operation for realizing energy saving by suppressing heat consumption and power consumption is given. Compared to the normal mode, the usability is slightly worse, but a higher level of energy saving can be realized.

As shown in FIG. 5, in the rational mode, it is determined in step S80 whether or not the heat storage amount at the end of the operation according to the planned operation plan is positive. When the heat storage amount at the end of the operation is negative (NO in step S80), it indicates that the heat storage amount is insufficient with respect to the heat demand. In order to eliminate the shortage of the heat storage amount, in the rational mode, the process proceeds to step S88 to guide a method of using electric power instead of heat. For example, guidance is provided that recommends switching from floor heating with hot water to heating with an air conditioner that uses electric power. By operating in accordance with this advice, it is possible to increase the power consumption and increase the power generation amount and increase the heat storage amount, and simultaneously reduce the heat demand and suppress the decrease in the heat storage amount. The shortage of the heat storage amount with respect to the heat demand can be rationally eased or eliminated.
In step S80, when the heat storage amount at the end of the operation according to the planned operation plan is positive (in the case of YES), it indicates that the heat storage amount is satisfied with respect to the heat demand at the end of the operation. In this case, the process proceeds to step S82, and it is determined whether or not the heat storage amount becomes “temporarily” negative during operation according to the planned operation plan. The fact that the amount of heat stored temporarily becomes negative during operation (YES in step S82) indicates that the timing of power demand is late and the timing of heat demand is fast. However, after that, the subsequent power consumption proceeds, the amount of power generation increases, the amount of heat storage increases, and finally turns to positive (YES in step S80). Accordingly, the process proceeds to step S90, and a display recommending that the power consumption be accelerated and the heat consumption be delayed is displayed, and the user is prompted to advance the timing of the power consumption and also to delay the timing of the heat consumption. By operating according to this advice, the peak of power consumption and heat consumption can be leveled, and the temporary reduction of heat storage can be reduced or eliminated.
In step S82, if the heat storage amount is not negative during operation according to the planned operation plan (if NO), it indicates that the heat storage amount is always satisfied with respect to the heat demand until the end of operation. Yes. In this case, the process proceeds to step S84, and it is determined whether or not the heat storage amount reaches the maximum heat storage amount during operation according to the planned operation plan. When the heat storage amount reaches the maximum heat storage amount during operation (YES in step S84), the process proceeds to step S92. In step S92, a display recommending that the hot water filling of the bath is accelerated is performed, and the user is prompted to advance the start timing of the hot water filling operation. Hot water operation has a large amount of heat consumption and has a great influence on the daily heat consumption. If the hot water filling operation is started before the heat storage amount reaches the maximum heat storage amount, the heat storage amount does not reach the maximum heat storage amount. By operating according to this advice, it is possible to effectively reduce the amount of stored heat and avoid the amount of stored heat reaching the maximum amount of stored heat.
If the heat storage amount does not reach the maximum heat storage amount during operation according to the planned operation plan in step S84 (if NO), the heat storage amount during operation is always positive, and the heat storage amount with respect to the heat demand amount. Indicates that it is always satisfied. In order to eliminate the excessive amount of heat storage at the end of operation, heat consumption is promoted in the normal mode, and power consumption is saved in the saving mode. In rational mode, both of these are done. That is, the process proceeds to step S86, and a display for teaching a method of using heat instead of electric power is performed. For example, a guide recommending floor heating using hot water instead of heating by an air conditioner using electric power is displayed. By improving the operation in accordance with this advice, it is possible to reduce the power consumption and decrease the power generation amount and suppress the increase in the heat storage amount, and simultaneously increase the heat consumption and decrease the heat storage amount. The shortage of the heat storage amount with respect to the heat demand can be rationally eased or eliminated.
As described above, the energy saving level in the rational mode is intermediate between the energy saving level in the normal mode and the energy saving level in the saving mode. Energy saving can be realized effectively without significantly impairing usability.

In step S14 to step S22, when the operation guidance conforming to the energy saving mode selected by the user is displayed, the process proceeds to step S24 in FIG. In step S24, it is determined whether or not a hot water filling operation is reserved. Usually, bath bathing is not reserved at the start of operation, but is often performed without reservation according to the situation of the day. The actual filling time is stored in the operation record.
When the user knows that the system can be used efficiently by accelerating the hot water filling operation by being guided in step S92, reservations are often made. If it is determined in step S24 that the hot water filling operation has been reserved (if YES), the process proceeds to step S26, where the reserved hot water filling operation start time and the hot water filling operation start time at the time of the operation plan are prepared. It is determined whether or not there is a large difference with (in this case, the actual time of the start time of the filling operation). If there is a large unacceptable deviation between the reservation time and the actual time (if NO in step S26), the operation plan needs to be corrected. Accordingly, the process proceeds to step S30, the operation plan prepared in step S10 is corrected, and the process returns to step S14. Steps S14 to S22 are performed again, and operation improvement is guided when the corrected operation plan is used. Also at this time, guidance is based on the energy saving level selected by the user. The guidance display displayed on the liquid crystal display of the remote controller 23 of the controller 21 is corrected and displayed again in the new guidance. In step S24 after the operation plan is corrected, since the hot water filling operation has already been reserved (YES), the process proceeds to step S26. Furthermore, in step S26, since it is YES, a process is complete | finished.
If there is no large difference between the reservation time and the time assumed at the time of the operation planning in step S26 (if YES), there is no need to correct the advice. Proceeding to step S28, the system is operated according to the planned operation plan, and the process is terminated.

There are various levels of energy saving. For example, if the amount of heat storage is insufficient with respect to the amount of heat demand, if you want to achieve a low level of energy saving, increase the amount of heat storage by emphasizing the feeling of use and promoting power consumption. . Even if the consumption amount of the primary energy is slightly increased, the consumption amount of the primary energy can be reduced as compared with the case of using the water heater. If the amount of heat storage is insufficient with respect to the amount of heat demand, and if a high level of energy conservation is to be achieved, even if there is some inconvenience, by reducing heat consumption, Suppress the decrease. Primary energy consumption can be reduced to the maximum.
This embodiment has three energy saving modes: a normal mode that realizes a low level of energy saving, a saving mode that realizes a high level of energy saving, and a rational mode that realizes an intermediate level of energy saving between the normal mode and the saving mode. ing. The user can select and set from these modes according to lifestyle and preference. Depending on the selected energy saving mode, the contents to be advised by the system are different. By operating the system in accordance with this advice, it is possible to realize the energy saving level desired by the user. The user's awareness of energy saving can be thoroughly enforced, and the user's awareness of energy saving can be consistently reflected in the operation of the system.

Specific examples of the present invention have been described in detail above, but these are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the claims. The technology described in the claims includes various modifications and changes of the specific examples illustrated above.
For example, in this embodiment, three energy saving modes are provided, but the number of energy saving modes and advice content are not particularly limited. What is necessary is that advice capable of realizing a level of energy saving desired by the user can be provided.
In addition, the technical elements described in the present specification or the drawings exhibit technical usefulness alone or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations described in the claims at the time of filing. In addition, the technology illustrated in the present specification or the drawings achieves a plurality of objects at the same time, and has technical utility by achieving one of the objects.

The system diagram of the cogeneration system which concerns on a present Example. The flowchart of the process which advises the rational operation method of a system. Subroutine that gives advice for normal mode. Subroutine for saving mode advice. Subroutine for rational mode advice.

Explanation of symbols

10: Hot water supply system 20: Hot water storage tank 21: Controller 22: Hot water heater 23: Remote control 110: Power generation unit

Claims (3)

If power is generated according to the operation plan, water is heated with the heat generated by the power generation, the heated hot water is stored, the stored hot water is supplied when necessary, and the stored hot water is insufficient It is a cogeneration system that heats water and supplies hot water,
Storage means for accumulating and storing the operation results of the cogeneration system;
A planning means for planning an operation plan of the cogeneration system based on the operation results stored and stored in the storage means;
An input means for inputting an energy saving level;
Guiding means for guiding the operation method of the cogeneration system based on the determination of the excess / deficiency state of the heat storage amount during operation or at the end of the operation according to the operation plan planned by the planning means and the energy saving level input by the input means,
Cogeneration system characterized by having Means for reserving the time for bathing
Means for correcting the operation plan based on the reserved time of the bathtub hot water operation reserved by the reservation means;
The cogeneration system of Claim 1 to which is added. Re-guide means to guide the operation method of the cogeneration system again based on the revised operation plan,
The cogeneration system of claim 2 to which is added

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