JP5029772B2 - Air compression unit, solar light tracking system, and water supply system - Google Patents

Abstract

Provided is an air compression unit comprising: water receiving chambers (W1, W2) into which tap water flows; air chambers (A1, A2) into which air flows; displacement members (63, 123) that displace due to the water pressure of the tap water that has flowed into the water receiving chambers (W1, W2) and which reduce the capacity of the air chambers (A1, A2); and discharge outlets (55, 56) that discharge the air compressed in the air chambers (A1, A2) to outside the air chambers (A1, A2).

Description

  The present invention relates to an air compression unit and a water supply system including the air compression unit.

  There is known a device that drives a piston by a water pressure of a water pipe and drives a predetermined driving object. Patent Document 1 discloses this type of device (hydraulic drive device).

  The hydraulic drive device has a cylinder and a piston accommodated in the cylinder. A pressure receiving chamber communicating with the water pipe is formed below the piston. One end of the rod is connected to the lower end of the piston. The other end of this rod is fixed to the floor surface. When water is supplied from the water pipe to the pressure receiving chamber, the water pressure in the pressure receiving chamber increases. As a result, the piston is displaced upward along the rod. In this hydraulic drive device, the object is pushed upward by such displacement of the piston.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-18801

  In the apparatus using the water pressure of the water pipe as described above, a predetermined drive target is directly driven by the water pressure. On the other hand, applications other than the above-described apparatuses are also conceivable as apparatuses that utilize water pressure. Specifically, for example, if a device capable of compressing air using water pressure can be realized, the generated compressed air can be used for various purposes.

  The present invention has been made in view of such a point, and an object thereof is an air compression unit capable of compressing air by utilizing tap water pressure, a solar light tracking system including the air compression unit, and the air compression unit. It is to propose a water supply system equipped with.

The first invention is directed to an air compression unit, and includes first and second water receiving chambers (W1, W2) into which tap water flows, and first and second air chambers (A1, A2) into which air flows . ), A first operation for reducing the volume of the first air chamber (A1) by displacement by the water pressure in the first water receiving chamber (W1), and a displacement by the water pressure in the second water receiving chamber (W2). The displacement member (63,123) that performs switching between the second operation for reducing the volume of the second air chamber (A2) and the air compressed in each air chamber (A1, A2) are stored in each air chamber (A1, A2). Two discharge ports (55, 56) to be discharged to the outside, an inflow path (21a) into which tap water flows, an outflow path (21b) from which tap water flows out, and the inflow path (21a) during the first operation ) In communication with the first water receiving chamber (W1) and at the same time the second water receiving chamber (W2) in communication with the outflow passage (21b), and the inflow passage ( 21a) above A water flow switching unit (51) that switches to a second state in which the first receiving chamber (W1) communicates with the outflow passage (21b) at the same time as communicating with the two receiving chambers (W2); One cylinder member (61), and a partition (62) for partitioning the inside of the cylinder member (61) into a first cylinder chamber (C1) and a second cylinder chamber (C2) adjacent in the axial direction, The displacement member (63) includes a first piston part (64) that is accommodated in the first cylinder chamber (C1) so as to be freely advanced and retracted, and a second piston that is accommodated in the second cylinder chamber (C2) so as to be freely advanced and retracted. Part (65) and a rod part (66) that passes through the partition part (62) and connects the first piston part (64) and the second piston part (65), and the first cylinder chamber ( C1) includes the first air chamber (A1) on the partitioning portion (62) side across the first piston portion (64), and the partitioning portion (62). The first water receiving chamber (W1) is defined on the opposite side, and the second air is provided in the second cylinder chamber (C2) on the partition portion (62) side with the second piston portion (65) interposed therebetween. A chamber (A2) is defined, the second water receiving chamber (W2) is defined on the side opposite to the partition (62), and is displaced along with the axial reciprocation of the piston (64, 65). A power generation mechanism (160, 180) having a magnet (161, 186) and a coil (162, 188) that generates power by displacement of the magnet (161, 186) is provided.

The second invention is directed to an air compression unit, and includes first and second water receiving chambers (W1, W2) into which tap water flows, and first and second air chambers (A1, A2) into which air flows. ), A first operation for reducing the volume of the first air chamber (A1) by displacement by the water pressure in the first water receiving chamber (W1), and a displacement by the water pressure in the second water receiving chamber (W2). The displacement member (63,123) that performs switching between the second operation for reducing the volume of the second air chamber (A2) and the air compressed in each air chamber (A1, A2) are stored in each air chamber (A1, A2). Two discharge ports (55, 56) to be discharged to the outside, an inflow path (21a) into which tap water flows, an outflow path (21b) from which tap water flows out, and the inflow path (21a) during the first operation ) In communication with the first water receiving chamber (W1) and at the same time the second water receiving chamber (W2) in communication with the outflow passage (21b), and the inflow passage ( 21a) above A water flow switching unit (51) that switches to a second state that communicates with the second water receiving chamber (W2) and at the same time communicates the first water receiving chamber (W1) with the outflow passage (21b); A cylindrical first cylinder member (121) in which one cylinder chamber (C1) is formed, and a cylindrical second cylinder member (122) in which a second cylinder chamber (C2) is formed; The displacement member (123) includes a first piston part (124) that is housed in the first cylinder chamber (C1) so as to be able to advance and retract, and a second piston part that is housed in the second cylinder chamber (C2) so as to be able to advance and retract. (125) and the first piston part (124) and the second piston part (125) are connected to each other through the axial end portions of the first cylinder member (121) and the second cylinder member (122). A rod portion (126), and the first cylinder chamber (C1) includes a first receiving portion on one end side in the axial direction with the first piston portion (124) interposed therebetween. A water chamber (W1) is partitioned, a second water receiving chamber (W2) is partitioned on the other end side, and the second cylinder chamber (C2) has an axial direction across the second piston portion (125). A first air chamber (A1) is defined on one end side and a second air chamber (A2) is defined on the other end side, and the magnets (161,186) are displaced as the piston part (124, 125) reciprocates in the axial direction. And a power generation mechanism (160, 180) having a coil (162, 188) that generates power by displacement of the magnet (161, 186).

In the air compression units of the first and second inventions, tap water from the water pipe flows into the water receiving chambers (W1, W2). As a result, the internal pressure of the water receiving chambers (W1, W2) increases, the displacement members (63, 123) are displaced, and the volume of the air chambers (A1, A2) is reduced. As a result, the air in the air chamber (A1, A2) is compressed. The air compressed in the air chamber (A1, A2) is discharged from the discharge port (55, 56) to the outside of the air chamber (A1, A2).

In the air compression unit of the first and second inventions, two water receiving chambers (W1, W2) and two air chambers (A1, A2) are provided, and the first operation and the second operation are switched. Is called. Specifically, in the first operation, the displacement member (63, 123) is displaced by the water pressure in the first water receiving chamber (W1), and the volume of the first air chamber (A1) is reduced. As a result, the air in the first air chamber (A1) is compressed, and the compressed air is discharged from the discharge port (55). In the second operation, the displacement member (63, 123) is displaced by the water pressure in the second water receiving chamber (W2), and the volume of the second air chamber (A2) is reduced. As a result, the air in the second air chamber (A2) is compressed, and the compressed air is discharged from the discharge port (56).

In the first and second inventions, the water flow path switching portion (51) is in the first state during the first operation and is in the second state during the second operation. When the water flow path switching part (51) is in the first state during the first operation, the inflow path (21a) and the first water receiving chamber (W1) communicate with each other, and the outflow path (21b) and the second water receiving chamber (W2). ) Communicate. Then, the tap water of the inflow channel (21a) flows into the first receiving chamber (W1). Thereby, air is compressed in the first air chamber (A1), and this compressed air is discharged from the discharge port (55). Thereafter, when the first operation is shifted to the second operation and the water flow switching unit (51) enters the second state, the inflow channel (21a) communicates with the second water receiving chamber (W2) and the outflow channel (21b). ) And the first receiving chamber (W1). Then, the tap water of the inflow channel (21a) flows into the second receiving chamber (W2). Thereby, air is compressed in the second air chamber (A2), and this compressed air is discharged from the discharge port (56). At the same time, the tap water in the first receiving chamber (W1) flows out from the first receiving chamber (W1) through the outflow channel (21b). Thereafter, when the second operation is shifted to the first operation and the water flow switching unit (51) is again in the first state, the tap water in the inflow channel (21a) flows into the first receiving chamber (W1), The air in one air chamber (A1) is compressed. At the same time, the tap water in the second receiving chamber (W2) flows out to the second receiving chamber (W2) through the outflow channel (21b).

In the first invention, the inside of the cylindrical cylinder member (61) is partitioned into the first cylinder chamber (C1) and the second cylinder chamber (C2) by the partition portion (62). A first piston portion (64) is disposed in the first cylinder chamber (C1), and a second piston portion (65) is disposed in the second cylinder chamber (C2). These piston parts (64, 65) are connected by a rod part (66) penetrating the partition part (62).

  In the first operation, when tap water flows into the first water receiving chamber (W1) from the inflow channel (21a), the first piston portion (64) is displaced toward the first air chamber (A1). Thereby, air is compressed in the first air chamber (A1). When shifting from the first operation to the second operation, tap water flows into the second water receiving chamber (W2) from the inflow channel (21a). As a result, the second piston portion (65) is displaced toward the second air chamber (A2), and the air in the second air chamber (A2) is compressed. At the same time, the first piston part (64) connected to the second piston part (65) is displaced toward the first water receiving chamber (W1). As a result, the tap water in the first receiving chamber (W1) is pushed out to the outflow channel (21b). Thereafter, when the second operation is shifted to the first operation again, the air in the first air chamber (A1) is compressed again. At the same time, the second piston portion (65) connected to the first piston portion (64) is displaced toward the second water receiving chamber (W2). As a result, the tap water in the second receiving chamber (W2) is pushed out to the outflow channel (21b).

In the second invention, the first piston portion (124) is disposed in the first cylinder chamber (C1) of the first cylinder member (121), and the second cylinder chamber (C2) of the second cylinder member (122) is the second cylinder chamber (C2). Two piston parts (125) are arranged. These piston parts (124, 125) are connected by a rod part (126) passing through both cylinder members (121, 122).

  In the first operation, when tap water flows into the first water receiving chamber (W1) from the inflow channel (21a), the first piston portion (124) is displaced toward the second water receiving chamber (W2). At the same time, the second piston part (125) connected to the first piston part (124) is displaced toward the first air chamber (A1). As a result, the air in the first air chamber (A1) is compressed. When shifting from the first operation to the second operation, tap water flows from the inflow channel (21a) into the second water receiving chamber (W2). As a result, the second piston portion (125) is displaced toward the second air chamber (A2), and the air in the second air chamber (A2) is compressed. At the same time, the first piston part (124) connected to the second piston part (125) is displaced toward the first water receiving chamber (W1). As a result, the tap water in the first receiving chamber (W1) is pushed out to the outflow channel (21b). Thereafter, when the second operation is shifted to the first operation again, the air in the first air chamber (A1) is compressed again. The second piston part (125) connected to the first piston part (124) is displaced toward the second water receiving chamber (W2). As a result, the tap water in the second receiving chamber (W2) is pushed out to the outflow channel (21b).

In the first and second inventions, in the power generation mechanism (160, 180), an electromotive force is generated in the coil (162, 188) by the displacement of the magnet (161, 186) in accordance with the displacement of the piston (64, 65). Is done.

According to a third invention, in the first or second invention, the displacement member (63, 123) has an area of a pressure receiving surface facing the water receiving chamber (W1, W2) facing the air chamber (A1, A2). It is characterized by being larger than the area of the pressure increasing surface.

In the displacement member (63, 123) of the third invention, the area of the pressure receiving surface that receives the pressure of tap water is larger than the area of the pressure increasing surface that contributes to the compression of air. For this reason, when the displacement member (63, 123) is displaced, in the air chamber (A1, A2), it is possible to increase the pressure by the ratio of the area of both.

According to a fourth invention, in any one of the first to third inventions, an air flow path (40) through which compressed air flows and a discharge port (55) of the first air chamber (A1) during the first operation. ) In communication with the air flow path (40) and at the same time the discharge port (56) of the second air chamber (A2) is closed, and the second air chamber (A2) during the second operation. An air flow path switching part (52) for closing the discharge port (55) of the first air chamber (A1) at the same time as communicating the discharge port (56) with the air flow path (40). Features.

In the fourth invention, the air flow path switching unit (52) is in the first state during the first operation and is in the second state during the second operation. Specifically, when the air flow path switching unit (52) is in the first state during the first operation, the discharge port (55) of the first air chamber (A1) communicates with the air flow path (40). Thereby, the air compressed in the first air chamber (A1) is supplied to the air flow path (40). Thereafter, when the first operation is shifted to the second operation and the air flow path switching unit (52) is in the second state, the air compressed in the second air chamber (A2) is supplied to the air flow path (40). The Thereafter, when the second operation is shifted to the first operation and the air flow path switching unit (52) is again in the first state, the air compressed in the first air chamber (A1) is again transferred to the air flow path (40). Supplied.

A fifth invention includes a wind turbine (191) rotated by the air compressed and discharged in the air chamber (A1, A2) in any one of the first to fourth inventions, and the wind turbine (191) It has the electric power generation mechanism (190) which generate | occur | produces electricity by rotation of this.

In the fifth invention, the wind turbine (191) is rotated by the compressed air discharged from the air chambers (A1, A2), and power generation is performed.

A sixth invention is directed to a solar light tracking system, and includes a solar panel (92) provided with a rotating shaft (95), and the air compression unit (50) of any one of the first to fifth inventions. And an actuator (93) that is operated by the compressed air of the air compression unit (50) and rotates the solar panel (92) around the axis of the rotation axis (95) according to the direction of the sun, and air compression And a power storage unit (173, 223, 224) that stores power generated by the power generation mechanism (160, 180, 190) of the unit (50).

In the sixth invention, the actuator (93) is actuated by the compressed air of the air compression unit (50), and the solar panel (92) is rotated according to the direction of the sun. The electric power generated by the power generation mechanism (160, 180, 190) is stored in the power storage unit (173, 223, 224).

A seventh aspect of the invention, tap water is intended for water supply system with a water channel (20) for supplying the predetermined utilization object (2,3,4), to the water channel (20), first to 6. The air compression unit (50) according to any one of claims 6 is connected, the inflow path (21a) of the air compression unit (50) is connected to the water source side, and the outflow path of the air compression unit (50). (21b) is connected to the use object (2,3,4).

In the water supply system according to the seventh aspect of the invention, tap water is supplied to the predetermined use object (2, 3, 4) through the inflow path (21a) and the outflow path (21b) of the air compression unit (50). Specifically, in the air compression unit (50), when the second operation is shifted to the first operation, tap water flows from the inflow passage (21a) into the first water receiving chamber (W1), and the first air chamber (A1) ) Air is compressed. At the same time, the tap water in the second receiving chamber (W2) is sent to the usage target (2, 3, 4) via the outflow channel (21b). Thereafter, when the first operation is shifted to the second operation, tap water flows into the second water receiving chamber (W2) from the inflow channel (21a), and the air in the second air chamber (A2) is compressed. At the same time, the tap water in the first receiving chamber (W1) is sent to the usage target (2, 3, 4) via the outflow channel (21b) .

  According to the present invention, the displacement member (63, 123) is displaced by the water pressure flowing into the water receiving chamber (W1, W2), and the volume of the air chamber (A1, A2) is reduced. Compressed air can be obtained. In addition, the water receiving chamber (W1, W2) is economical because it uses tap water pressure.

In the present invention, by switching between the first operation for compressing air in the first air chamber (A1) and the second operation for compressing air in the second air chamber (A2), the two air chambers (A1) are switched. , A2) to obtain compressed air.

In the present invention, the water flow path switching unit (51) is switched between the first state and the second state between the first operation and the second operation. As a result, tap water from the inflow channel (21a) can be continuously supplied to the receiving chamber (W1, W2), and the water in the receiving chamber (W1, W2) can be discharged to the outflow channel (21b). it can. At the same time, air can be compressed in each air chamber (A1, A2).

In the first aspect of the invention, the piston member (63) is displaced inside the cylinder member (61), so that the water flows into and out of the water receiving chambers (W1, W2) and the air chambers (A1). , A2) can be performed simultaneously with the air compression operation. In the present invention, since only one cylinder member (61) has to be provided, the structure of the apparatus can be simplified.

In the second aspect of the invention, the pistons (124, 125) are displaced inside the two cylinder members (121, 122), so that the water flows into and out of the water receiving chambers (W1, W2) and the air. The air compression operation in the chambers (A1, A2) can be performed simultaneously. In the present invention, since each cylinder member (121, 122) is formed separately, the area of the pressure-receiving surface of water on the first cylinder member (121) side is set to the air pressure increasing surface on the second cylinder member (122) side. It becomes easy to design greatly.

According to the first and second inventions, power can be generated using the reciprocating motion of the piston portions (64, 62). According to the fifth invention, the air is discharged from the air chambers (A1, A2). It is possible to generate electricity using compressed air.

In the third invention, since the area of the pressure receiving surface of tap water is larger than the area of the pressure increasing surface of air, the pressure of air can be made higher than the pressure of tap water. Therefore, even if the tap water pressure is relatively small, high-pressure compressed air can be obtained.

In the fourth invention, the air flow path switching unit (52) is switched between the first state and the second state between the first operation and the second operation. Thereby, in the first operation, the air compressed in the first air chamber (A1) is discharged to the air flow path (40), and in the second operation, the air compressed in the second air chamber (A2) is discharged into the air flow path. (40) can be discharged.

According to the sixth aspect of the invention, since the power storage unit (173, 223, 224) that accumulates the electric power generated by the power generation mechanism (160, 180, 190) of the air compression unit (50) is provided, the electric parts of the solar light tracking system even when a power failure occurs Can be driven. Therefore, a highly reliable solar light tracking system can be provided.

In the seventh invention, the air compression unit (50) according to the fourth to ninth inventions is applied to a water supply system for supplying water to a predetermined utilization target (2, 3, 4) through the water flow path (20). is doing. For this reason, compressed air can be obtained simultaneously with supplying tap water to the utilization object (2, 3, 4) .

FIG. 1 is a system diagram showing an overall configuration of a hot water supply system according to Reference Embodiment 1 . FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of the solar panel unit according to Reference Embodiment 1 . 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line III-III in FIG. 2. FIG. 3 (A) is an example of a state where the solar panel faces the east side, and FIG. 3 (B) is a state where the solar panel faces the south side. FIG. 3C shows an example of the state where the solar panel faces the west side. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram of a pressurizing unit according to Reference Embodiment 1 , FIG. 4 (A) is an example of a state in which the volume of the water pressurizing chamber is enlarged, and FIG. 4 (B) is a water pressurizing chamber. This is an example of a state in which the volume of the is reduced. FIG. 5 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air compression unit according to the first embodiment . FIG. 6 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining the first first operation of the air compression unit according to Reference Embodiment 1 in the order of FIG. 6 (A), FIG. 6 (B), and FIG. 6 (C). FIG. 7 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining the second operation of the air compression unit according to Reference Embodiment 1 in the order of FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C. FIG. 8 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining the first operation of the air compression unit according to Reference Embodiment 1 in the order of FIG. 8A, FIG. 8B, and FIG. 8C. FIG. 9 is a system diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a hot water supply system according to Reference Embodiment 2. FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram of an air compression unit according to Reference Embodiment 2. FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining an initial first operation of the air compression unit according to Reference Embodiment 2 in the order of FIGS. 11 (A), 11 (B), and 11 (C). FIG. 12 is a schematic configuration diagram for describing the second operation of the air compression unit according to Reference Embodiment 2 in the order of FIGS. 12A, 12 </ b> B, and 12 </ b> C. FIG. 13: is a schematic block diagram for demonstrating the 1st operation | movement of the air compression unit which concerns on the reference form 2 in order of FIG. 13 (A), FIG. 13 (B), and FIG. 13 (C). FIG. 14 is a system diagram showing an overall configuration of a hot water supply system according to Reference Embodiment 3. FIG. 15 is a longitudinal sectional view of an ejector-type pressurizing mechanism according to Reference Embodiment 3. FIG. 16 is a system diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a hot water supply system according to Reference Embodiment 4. FIG. 17 is a system diagram showing an overall configuration of a hot water supply system according to Reference Embodiment 5. FIG. 18 is a system diagram showing an overall configuration of a hot water supply system according to Reference Embodiment 6. FIG. 19 is a system diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a hot water supply system according to Reference Embodiment 7. FIG. 20 is a system diagram showing an overall configuration of a hot water supply system according to Reference Embodiment 8. FIG. 21 is a schematic configuration diagram of a pressurizing unit of a hot water supply system according to Reference Embodiment 9, FIG. 21 (A) shows the pressurizing unit during the first operation, and FIG. 21 (B) is during the second operation. A pressure unit is shown. FIG. 22 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the configuration of the air compression unit according to the first embodiment . FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the solar panel control unit according to the first embodiment . FIG. 24 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the configuration of the air compression unit according to the second embodiment, and schematically shows the power generation mechanism. FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the power generation unit according to the second embodiment . FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating configurations of an air compression unit and a solar panel control unit according to the third embodiment .

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are essentially preferable examples, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, its application, or its use.

<< Reference Form 1 >>
Reference form 1 will be described. The hot water supply system (S) according to the reference form 1 is applied to general houses and the like. The hot water supply system (S) includes a hot water supply unit (10) that supplies hot water to a predetermined usage target, and a solar power generation unit (90) that generates power by sunlight.

<Hot water supply unit>
The hot water supply unit (10) is a water supply system that supplies tap water to a utilization target, and constitutes a so-called heat pump type hot water heater. The hot water supply unit (10) generates hot water by heating water on the side of the water pipe serving as a water source, and supplies this hot water to a use target such as a shower (2) or a bathtub (not shown). The hot water supply unit (10) includes a heat source unit (10a) serving as a heat source for heating water, a water flow path (20) formed in a pipe through which tap water flows, and a hot water storage tank (30 ).

  The heat source unit (10a) includes a compressor (11), a water heat exchanger (12), an expansion valve (13), and an outdoor heat exchanger (14). In the heat source unit (10a), each component device (11, 12, 13, 14) is connected to each other via a refrigerant pipe, thereby forming a refrigerant circuit (15) in which a refrigeration cycle is performed. The refrigerant circuit (15) is filled with carbon dioxide as a refrigerant. In the refrigerant circuit (15), a so-called supercritical cycle is performed in which the refrigerant is compressed to a critical pressure or higher.

  The compressor (11) is composed of, for example, a scroll compressor. The compressor (11) is an inverter type in which the rotation speed (operation frequency) of the motor is variable. The water heat exchanger (12) has a first internal channel (12a) and a second internal channel (12b). The first internal channel (12a) is connected to the refrigerant circuit (15), and the second internal channel (12b) is connected to the water channel (20). In the water heat exchanger (12), the refrigerant flowing through the first internal channel (12a) and the water flowing through the second internal channel (12b) exchange heat. The expansion valve (13) is an electronic expansion valve whose opening degree can be adjusted.

  The outdoor heat exchanger (14) is installed outdoors. The outdoor heat exchanger (14) is, for example, a fin-and-tube heat exchanger. An outdoor fan (16) is provided in the vicinity of the outdoor heat exchanger (14). In the outdoor heat exchanger (14), the outdoor air blown by the outdoor fan (16) exchanges heat with the refrigerant.

  The hot water storage tank (30) is composed of a vertically long hollow sealed container. The hot water storage tank (30) has a cylindrical body (30a), a top (30b) that closes the upper end of the body (30a), and a bottom (30c) that closes the lower end of the body (30a). Have. The hot water storage tank (30) is in the water flow path (20), and is connected between an air compression unit (50), which will be described in detail later, and a shower (2) to be used.

  The water flow path (20) has an inflow end connected to the water pipe side and an outflow end connected to an object to be used such as a shower (2). In addition, the outflow end of the water flow path (20) is branched into a plurality, and is connected to a bathtub or the like (not shown). The shower (2) is connected to the outflow end of the water flow path (20) and constitutes a discharge mechanism that discharges water at a predetermined pressure. The water channel (20) has a water supply channel (21), a heating circulation channel (22), and a supply channel (23).

  The water supply channel (21) is a channel for supplying tap water on the water supply pipe side to the hot water storage tank (30). The inflow end of the water supply channel (21) is connected to the water supply pipe, and the outflow end is connected to the inside of the hot water storage tank (30). The outflow side piping of the water supply channel (21) passes through the bottom (30c) of the hot water storage tank (30) and opens near the bottom (30c) in the hot water storage tank (30). The water supply channel (21) has a water stop valve (31), an air compression unit (50), a pressure reducing valve (32), and a first check valve (CV1) in order from the upstream side to the downstream side of the water flow. Is connected.

  The water stop valve (31) is an on-off valve capable of prohibiting water flow. An air compression unit (50) compresses air using the pressure of tap water. The detailed structure of the air compression unit (50) will be described later. The pressure reducing valve (32) constitutes a pressure reducing mechanism that reduces the pressure of tap water. Thereby, in the water flow path (20), the pressure (for example, 0.17 MPa) downstream of the pressure reducing valve (32) is lower than the pressure (for example, 0.5 MPa) upstream of the pressure reducing valve (32). The pressure resistance of the tank (30) is secured. That is, the pressure reducing valve (32) reduces the pressure of tap water on the hot water storage tank (30) side so that the internal pressure of the hot water storage tank (30) does not exceed a predetermined pressure limit value. The first check valve (CV1) allows the flow of water in the direction from the pressure reducing valve (32) side toward the hot water storage tank (30) (the direction indicated by the arrow in FIG. 1), and the flow of water in the reverse direction. Is prohibited.

  The heating circulation channel (22) is a channel for heating the water while circulating the water in the hot water storage tank (30). The pipe on the inflow side of the heating circulation channel (22) passes through the bottom (30c) of the hot water storage tank (30) and opens in the vicinity of the bottom (30c) in the hot water storage tank (30). The outflow side piping of the heating circulation channel (22) passes through the top (30b) of the hot water storage tank (30) and opens in the vicinity of the top (30b) in the hot water storage tank (30). Inside the hot water storage tank (30), the inflow end of the heating circulation channel (22) is positioned lower than the outflow end of the heating circulation channel (22).

  A drainage three-way valve (33), a first circulation pump (34), and a three-way switching valve (35) are connected to the heating circulation channel (22) in order from the upstream side to the downstream side of the water flow. ing. In addition, the second internal flow path (12b) of the water heat exchanger (12) described above is connected to the heating circulation flow path (22) between the first circulation pump (34) and the three-way switching valve (35). Has been.

  The three-way valve for drainage (33) has three ports, two of which are connected to the heating circulation channel (22) and the remaining ports are connected to the drainage channel (24). The drainage channel (24) is connected to the sewer pipe. The three-way valve for drainage (33) is normally held in a state in which the heating circulation channel (22) is opened. The first circulation pump (34) is, for example, a centrifugal or positive displacement water pump.

  The three-way switching valve (35) has a first port to a third port. In the three-way switching valve (35), the first port is connected to the upstream side of the heating circulation channel (22), the second port is connected to the downstream side of the heating circulation channel (22), and the third port is a bypass channel (25 ). The three-way switching valve (35) connects the first port and the second port and blocks the third port (shown by the solid line in FIG. 1), and connects the second port and the third port. The first port can be switched to a state where the first port is blocked (a state indicated by a broken line in FIG. 1). The outflow side piping of the bypass passage (25) passes through the bottom (30c) of the hot water storage tank (30) and opens in the vicinity of the bottom (30c) in the hot water storage tank (30).

  A supply path (23) is a flow path for supplying the hot water in a hot water storage tank (30) to utilization objects, such as a shower (2). The inflow end of the supply path (23) communicates with the interior of the hot water storage tank (30). The outflow end of the hot water storage tank (30) communicates with the shower (2) through the pressurizing unit (70). In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, the outflow end of the supply path (23) branches in several, and is connected also to other utilization objects (for example, bathtub) other than a shower (2).

  A second check valve (CV2) and a hot water supply mixing valve (36) are connected to the supply path (23) in order from the upstream side to the downstream side of the water flow. The second check valve (CV2) allows the flow of water in the direction (indicated by the arrow in FIG. 1) from the hot water storage tank (30) to the hot water mixing valve (36), and the flow of water in the opposite direction. Is prohibited.

  The hot water supply mixing valve (36) has three ports, two of which are connected to the supply path (23) and the remaining ports are connected to one end of the branch path (26). The other end of the branch channel (26) is connected to the downstream side of the pressure reducing valve (32) in the water supply channel (21). The branch passage (26) is provided with a third check valve (CV3). The third check valve (CV3) allows the flow of water in the direction (indicated by the arrow in FIG. 1) from the water supply channel (21) side to the hot water supply mixing valve (36) side, and the water in the reverse direction. Prohibit flow. The hot water mixing valve (36) is configured to be able to adjust the opening degree of each port. Thereby, the hot water supply mixing valve (36) can adjust the mixing amount (mixing ratio) of water sent from the water supply channel (21) side and water sent from the hot water storage tank (30) side. By adjusting this mixing ratio, the temperature of the water supplied from the supply channel (23) to the shower (2) can be adjusted.

  One end of the escape passage (27) is connected to the supply passage (23) on the upstream side of the second check valve (CV2). The other end of the escape channel (27) is connected to the sewer. A relief valve (37) is connected to the escape passage (27). The relief valve (37) keeps the pressure in the hot water storage tank (30) below a predetermined value. That is, in the hot water storage tank (30), the internal pressure may become excessively high due to water evaporation. Thus, when the internal pressure of the hot water storage tank (30) exceeds a predetermined pressure (for example, 0.19 MPa), the relief valve (37) is temporarily opened. As a result, the water vapor in the hot water storage tank (30) is discharged to the sewer side, and the internal pressure of the hot water storage tank (30) is suppressed below a predetermined pressure.

  The water channel (20) further includes a cooling circulation channel (28). The cooling circulation channel (28) is a channel for cooling a heat generating component (details will be described later) of the power conditioner (115) while circulating the water in the hot water storage tank (30). The pipe on the inflow side of the cooling circulation channel (28) passes through the bottom (30c) of the hot water storage tank (30) and opens in the vicinity of the bottom (30c) in the hot water storage tank (30). The piping on the outflow side of the cooling circulation channel (28) extends through the top (30b) of the hot water storage tank (30) to the inside of the hot water storage tank (30). The outflow end of the hot water storage tank (30) is located at an intermediate portion in the axial direction (height direction) of the hot water storage tank (30). Inside the hot water storage tank (30), the inflow end of the cooling circulation channel (28) is positioned lower than the outflow end of the cooling circulation channel (28). Further, in the hot water storage tank (30), the inflow end of the cooling circulation channel (28) is lower than the outflow end of the heating circulation channel (22).

  A second circulation pump (38) and a water jacket (39) are connected to the cooling circulation channel (28) in order from the upstream side to the downstream side of the water flow. The second circulation pump (38) is, for example, a centrifugal or positive displacement water pump.

  The water jacket (39) constitutes a cooling unit that cools the heat generating component of the power conditioner (115) with water flowing through the cooling circulation channel (28). The water jacket (39) has a jacket part (39a) serving as a heat transfer member and a cooling water channel (39b) formed in the jacket part (39a). The jacket part (39a) is formed in, for example, a flat rectangular column shape, and is made of a material having high heat conductivity such as aluminum. The heat radiating portion (115a) of the power generation component of the power conditioner (115) is in contact with one end surface of the jacket portion (39a) in the thickness direction. The cooling water channel (39b) is connected to the cooling circulation channel (28).

  The hot water supply unit (10) includes an air flow path (40), an accumulator tank (41), a three-way switching mechanism (42), and a pressurizing unit (70). The air channel (40) is a channel through which the air compressed by the air compression unit (50) flows. The air flow path (40) has a main air supply path (43), a first air supply path (44), and a second air supply path (45). The inflow end of the main air supply path (43) communicates with the discharge side of the air compression unit (50). The outflow end of the main air supply path (43) is connected to the first port of the three-way switching mechanism (42). The inflow end of the first air supply path (44) is connected to the second port of the three-way switching mechanism (42). The outflow end of the first air supply path (44) is connected to the pressurizing unit (70). The inflow end of the second air supply path (45) is connected to the third port of the three-way switching mechanism (42). The outflow end of the second air supply path (45) communicates with the air bag (101, 102) side of the photovoltaic power generation unit (90).

  The accumulator tank (41) is connected to the main air supply path (43). The accumulator tank (41) is a hollow sealed container. The pressure storage tank (41) stores the air compressed by the air compression unit (50). One end of an air escape channel (46) is connected to the pressure accumulation tank (41). The other end of the air escape channel (46) is open to the atmosphere. The air relief flow path (46) is provided with an air relief valve (47) that opens and closes so as to maintain the pressure of the pressure accumulating tank (41) at a predetermined pressure.

  The three-way switching mechanism (42) has ports from the first port to the third port, and switches the air flow in the air flow path (40). The three-way switching mechanism (42) allows the first port and the second port to communicate with each other to block the third port (the state indicated by the solid line in FIG. 1), and allows the first port and the third port to communicate with each other. It is configured to be switchable to a state where the second port is blocked (a state indicated by a broken line in FIG. 1).

  The pressurizing unit (70) pressurizes the water discharged from the shower (2) using compressed air as a drive source. Details of the pressure unit (70) will be described later.

<Solar power generation unit>
The solar power generation unit (90) includes a solar panel unit (91) that generates direct-current power by sunlight, and a power conditioner (115) that converts direct-current power generated by the solar panel unit (91) into alternating-current power. I have.

  As shown in FIG.2 and FIG.3, the solar panel unit (91) comprises a solar tracking system, and is provided with the solar panel (92) and the solar panel drive mechanism (93). The solar panel (92) is installed on the roof (R) of a general house or the like. The solar panel (92) is formed in a substantially plate shape, and a sunlight receiving surface (92a) is formed on the upper side thereof. The solar panel (92) generates direct-current power by receiving sunlight by the light receiving surface (92a). The solar panel (92) constitutes a driven body that is driven by the compressed air discharged from the discharge ports (55, 56) of the air compression unit (50).

  The solar panel drive mechanism (93) is an actuator that drives the solar panel (92) so that the solar panel (92) tracks sunlight. The solar panel drive mechanism (93) includes a pair of pillars (94) that support the solar panel (92), and a pivot shaft (95) that is rotatably supported by the pillars (94, 94). And four mounting plates (96, 97) connected to the solar panel (92).

  The pair of pillars (94) are erected on the roof (R) at a predetermined interval from each other. The column portion (94) is formed in a vertically long rectangular column shape. A bearing portion (94a) that rotatably supports the rotation shaft (95) is formed at the upper end portion of the column portion (94). The rotation shaft (95) extends in parallel with the roof (R) so as to straddle the column portion (94).

  The four mounting plates (96, 97) are fixed to the lower end of the solar panel (92). Specifically, a pair of outer mounting plates (96) are provided outside the pair of column portions (94). A pair of inner mounting plates (97) are provided inside the pair of column portions (94). These inner mounting plates (97) are composed of a first inner mounting plate (97a) positioned closer to the lower side and a second inner mounting plate (97b) positioned closer to the upper side.

The solar panel drive mechanism (93) has a pair of air bags (101, 102) and a pair of rod portions (103, 104) connected to the air bags (101, 102). The pair of air bags (101, 102) are installed above the pedestal (100) laid on the roof (R). The pair of air bags (101, 102) includes a first air bag (101) disposed below the first inner mounting plate (97a) and a second air bag disposed below the second inner mounting plate (97b). (102). Further, both the air bags (101, 102) are arranged so as to sandwich the rotating shaft (95) supported by the column portion (94). In the present embodiment , the first air bag (101) is disposed closer to the west than the second air bag (102).

  Each air bag (101,102) is displaced in the direction perpendicular to the solar panel (92) as the main body (101a, 102a) expands and contracts due to changes in its internal pressure and the main body (101a, 102a) expands and contracts. Receiving portions (101b, 102b). That is, the receiving part (101b, 102b) is displaced to the solar panel (92) side when the main body part (101a, 102a) is extended, and the main body part (101a, 102a) is contracted to the roof (R). Displace to the side. Each air bag (101, 102) is provided with an air supply / exhaust port (101c, 102c).

  The pair of rod portions (103, 104) includes a first rod portion (103) that connects the first air bag (101) and the first inner mounting plate (97a), a second air bag (102), and a second inner mounting. It is comprised with the 2nd rod part (104) which connects a board (97b). Specifically, the first rod portion (103) has one end in the longitudinal direction connected to the upper end portion of the receiving portion (101b) of the first air bag (101) via the shaft portion (103a), and the other in the longitudinal direction. The end is connected to the first inner mounting plate (97a) via the shaft portion (103b). Similarly, the second rod portion (104) has one end in the longitudinal direction connected to the upper end portion of the receiving portion (102b) of the second air bag (102) via the shaft portion (104a), and the other end in the longitudinal direction. Is connected to the second inner mounting plate (97b) via the shaft portion (104b). Each rod portion (103, 104) is rotatably connected to a corresponding air bag (101, 102) and a corresponding inner mounting plate (97a, 97b). With such a configuration, the own weight of the solar panel (92) acts on each air bag (101, 102) via each rod portion (103, 104). That is, each receiving part (101b, 102b) of each air bag (101, 102) supports the solar panel (92) from the back side.

  The solar panel drive mechanism (93) includes an air supply / exhaust mechanism (105) for changing the internal pressure of each air bag (101, 102). The air supply / exhaust mechanism (105) has a first air bag side flow path (106) and a second air bag side flow path (107).

  The first air bag side channel (106) includes a first relay channel (106a), a first air supply / exhaust channel (106b), and a first discharge channel (106c). The first air bag side channel (106) is provided with a first air supply / exhaust switching valve (108) having first to third ports. Similarly, the second air bag side channel (107) includes a second relay channel (107a), a second air supply / exhaust channel (107b), and a second discharge channel (107c). The second air bag side channel (107) is provided with a second air supply / exhaust switching valve (109) having first to third ports.

  The inflow end of the first relay flow path (106a) is connected to the second air supply path (45) of the hot water supply unit (10). The outflow end of the first relay channel (106a) is connected to the first port of the first supply / exhaust switching valve (108). One end of the first supply / exhaust flow path (106b) is connected to the second port of the first supply / exhaust switching valve (108). The other end of the first air supply / exhaust flow path (106b) is connected to the air supply / exhaust port (101c) of the first air bag (101). The inflow end of the first discharge path (106c) is connected to the third port of the first supply / exhaust switching valve (108). The outflow end of the first discharge path (106c) opens to the outside air side (atmospheric pressure side).

  The inflow end of the second relay flow path (107a) is connected to the second air supply path (45) of the hot water supply unit (10). The outflow end of the second relay channel (107a) is connected to the first port of the second supply / exhaust switching valve (109). One end of the second air supply / exhaust flow path (107b) is connected to the second port of the second air supply / exhaust switching valve (109). The other end of the second air supply / exhaust flow path (107b) is connected to the air supply / exhaust port (102c) of the second air bag (102). The inflow end of the second discharge path (107c) is connected to the third port of the second supply / exhaust switching valve (109). The outflow end of the second discharge path (107c) opens to the outside air side (atmospheric pressure side).

  The two supply / exhaust switching valves (108, 109) are connected to a first state (state indicated by a solid line in FIG. 2) in which the first port and the second port are communicated to block the third port, and the second port and the third port. Are connected to each other to switch to a second state (state indicated by a broken line in FIG. 2). Each supply / exhaust switching valve (108, 109) constitutes an opening / closing mechanism for switching and controlling the supply of air to each air bag (101, 102) and the exhaust from each air bag (101, 102).

  The solar panel drive mechanism (93) includes an angle sensor (110), a solar radiation sensor (111), and a solar panel control unit (112). The angle sensor (110) is attached to the end of the rotation shaft (95). The angle sensor (110) is a detection unit that detects the angular position of the solar panel (92). The solar radiation sensor (111) is a detection unit that detects the direction of the sun. The solar panel control unit (112) adjusts the angle of the solar panel (92) based on the detection values of the angle sensor (110) and the solar radiation sensor (111). Specifically, the solar panel control unit (112) is configured to switch the first and second supply / exhaust switching valves (108, 109) in accordance with these detected values.

  The power conditioner (115) shown in FIG. 1 converts the DC power generated by the solar panel (92) into AC power, and sends this AC power to a predetermined power supply target. The power conditioner (115) includes an inverter circuit, a filter circuit, a booster circuit, and the like, and a plurality of power elements (such as switching elements) and reactances included in these circuits constitute a heat generating component. The power conditioner (115) is provided with a heat radiating portion (115a) for releasing heat of the heat-generating component. The heat radiating portion (115a) is disposed in contact with the water jacket (39) described above.

<Detailed structure of pressure unit>
The detailed structure of the pressure unit (70) described above will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 (A) and 4 (B). The pressurizing unit (70) constitutes a driven body that is driven by the compressed air discharged from the discharge ports (55, 56) of the air compression unit (50). The pressurizing unit (70) of the reference form 1 is configured by a diaphragm pressurizing mechanism. The pressurizing unit (70) has a hollow box-shaped casing (71). The casing (71) includes a cylindrical case body (71a), a first wall (71b) that closes one end of the case body (71a), and the other end of the case body (71a). And a second wall portion (71c) for closing.

  An intake water port (72) and a discharge water port (73) are connected to the first wall (71b). The inflow end of the suction water port (72) is connected to the supply path (23) of the hot water supply unit (10). The outflow end of the suction water port (72) passes through the first wall (71b) and faces the inside of the casing (71). The inflow end of the discharge water port (73) passes through the first wall (71b) and faces the inside of the casing (71). The outflow end of the discharge water port (73) is connected to the inflow end of the shower (2).

  An air suction port (74) is connected to the second wall portion (71c). The inflow end of the air suction port (74) is connected to the first air supply path (44). The outflow end of the air suction port (74) passes through the first wall (71b) and faces the inside of the casing (71).

  The pressurizing unit (70) includes a diaphragm part (75) and a diaphragm drive mechanism (80) for driving the diaphragm part (75). The diaphragm part (75) is disposed closer to the first wall part (71b) inside the casing (71). The diaphragm part (75) is formed in a substantially bowl shape in which the central part is formed more flexibly than the outer peripheral part. The outer peripheral edge of the diaphragm (75) is fixed to the inner peripheral wall of the case main body (71a). Thereby, the space inside the casing (71) is partitioned into a water pressurizing chamber (76) and an air introducing chamber (77).

  The water pressurizing chamber (76) is formed between the diaphragm portion (75) and the first wall portion (71b) and communicates with the suction water port (72) and the discharge water port (73). The air introduction chamber (77) is formed between the diaphragm portion (75) and the second wall portion (71c) and communicates with the air suction port (74). The casing (71) is formed with a discharge port (not shown) for discharging the compressed air flowing into the air introduction chamber (77) to the outside of the casing (71).

  The diaphragm drive mechanism (80) is accommodated in the air introduction chamber (77). The diaphragm drive mechanism (80) includes an impeller (81), an output shaft (82), a linear motion conversion mechanism (83), a driven rod portion (84), and a fixing member (85). The impeller (81) is disposed in the vicinity of the outflow end of the air suction port (74). The impeller (81) is rotationally driven by the compressed air discharged from the air suction port (74). The output shaft (82) is connected to the shaft center of the impeller (81). The output shaft (82) is rotatably supported by a bearing portion (not shown). The linear motion conversion mechanism (83) converts the rotational motion of the output shaft (82) into a linear reciprocating motion of the driven rod portion (84). As the linear motion conversion mechanism (83), various conversion mechanisms such as a Scotch-yoke mechanism can be adopted. The driven rod portion (84) is driven by the output shaft (82) and advances and retreats in the axial direction of the case main body portion (71a). In the fixing member (85), the distal end portion of the driven rod portion (84) is fixed to the surface on one end side. The center portion of the diaphragm portion (75) is fixed to the other end surface of the fixing member (85). Accordingly, when the driven rod portion (84) reciprocates, the center portion of the diaphragm portion (75) is displaced together with the fixing member (85). As a result, the shape of the diaphragm portion (75) is deformed as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, and the volume of the water pressurizing chamber (76) is changed. As a result, the water in the water pressurizing chamber (76) is pressurized to a predetermined pressure. As described above, the diaphragm section (75) is configured to be displaced using compressed air (compressed fluid) as a drive source. The water pressurizing chamber (76) constitutes a pressurizing flow path for pressurizing water in accordance with the displacement of the diaphragm portion (75) and sending the water to the shower (2) side.

  Inside the suction water port (72), a valve seat (72a), a ball valve (72b), and a spring portion (72c) are provided. The ball valve (72b) is disposed on the outflow side of the valve seat portion (72a), and is urged toward the valve seat portion (72a) by the spring portion (72c). The valve seat part (72a), the ball valve (72b), and the spring part (72c) function as a check valve that prohibits the outflow of water from the shower (2) side to the supply path (23) side.

  Inside the discharge water port (73), a valve seat part (73a), a ball valve (73b), and a spring part (73c) are provided. The ball valve (73b) is disposed closer to the inflow side than the valve seat portion (73a), and is urged toward the valve seat portion (73a) by the spring portion (73c). The valve seat (73a), ball valve (73b), and spring (73c) constitute a discharge valve that opens the discharge water port (73) when the internal pressure of the water pressurizing chamber (76) exceeds a predetermined pressure. ing.

<Detailed structure of air compression unit>
The detailed structure of the air compression unit (50) described above will be described with reference to FIG.
The air compression unit (50) is a pressure increasing mechanism that compresses the fluid to a pressure higher than the water pressure by the water pressure of the water flow path (20), and constitutes an air compression unit that compresses air as the fluid. The air compression unit (50) includes a water channel switching unit (51), an air channel switching unit (52), a valve control unit (59), and an air compressor (60).

  The water flow path switching part (51) is composed of a four-way switching valve having first to fourth ports. In the water flow path switching unit (51), the first port is connected to the first water port (53) of the air compressor (60), and the second port is connected to the second water port (54) of the air compressor (60). The third port is connected to the inflow channel (21a), and the fourth port is connected to the outflow channel (21b). The inflow channel (21a) constitutes a part of the water supply channel (21) and is connected to the water supply pipe side (water source side). The outflow channel (21b) constitutes a part of the water supply channel (21) and is connected to the hot water storage tank (30) side (use target side).

  The water flow path switching unit (51) communicates the first port with the third port and at the same time communicates the second port with the fourth port (state shown by the solid line in FIG. 5), At the same time that the port and the fourth port are communicated, the second port and the third port can be switched to a second state (state indicated by a broken line in FIG. 5).

  The air flow path switching part (52) is composed of a three-way switching valve having first to third ports. In the air flow path switching unit (52), the first port is connected to the first discharge port (55) of the air compressor (60), and the second port is the second discharge port (56) of the air compressor (60). And the third port is connected to the air flow path (40). The air flow path switching unit (52) communicates the first port with the third port and simultaneously shuts off the second port, and the second port and the third port. Can be switched to a second state (state indicated by a broken line in FIG. 5) in which the first port is shut off at the same time.

  The valve control unit (59) controls the water channel switching unit (51) and the air channel switching unit (52). Specifically, the valve control unit (59) performs switching between the first operation and the second operation by the air compressor (60) and performs the water channel switching unit (51) and the air channel switching unit (52). To control. More specifically, in the first operation, the valve control unit (59) sets the water channel switching unit (51) to the first state and the air channel switching unit (52) to the first state. In the second operation, the valve control unit (59) sets the water channel switching unit (51) to the second state and the air channel switching unit (52) to the second state. Details of the first operation and the second operation will be described later.

The air compressor (60) of the reference form 1 has one cylindrical cylinder member (61) and one piston member (63) accommodated in the cylinder member (61) so as to advance and retract. Yes. The cylinder member (61) is formed in a hollow cylindrical shape. The cylinder member (61) includes a cylindrical body part (61a), a first closing part (61b) that closes one axial end of the cylindrical body part (61a), and an axial direction of the cylindrical body part (61a). And a second closing portion (61c) that closes the other end.

  Inside the cylinder member (61), a partition portion (62) is provided at an intermediate portion in the axial direction. Due to the partition portion (62), the inside of the cylinder member (61) has a first cylinder chamber (C1) closer to the first closing portion (61b) side and a second cylinder chamber closer to the second closing portion (61c) side. It is partitioned with (C2). That is, the partition part (62) partitions the inside of the cylinder member (61) into the first cylinder chamber (C1) and the second cylinder chamber (C2) that are adjacent in the axial direction.

  The piston member (63) includes a first piston part (64) accommodated in the first cylinder chamber (C1) so as to be freely advanced and retracted, and a second piston accommodated in the second cylinder chamber (C2) so as to be freely advanced and retracted. It has a part (65) and one piston rod (66) which connects both piston parts (64,65). The first piston part (64) and the second piston part (65) are formed in a disk shape having the same outer diameter. The piston rod (66) constitutes a rod portion that penetrates the through-hole (62a) formed in the partition portion (62) and connects both the piston portions (64, 65). The piston rod (66) is formed with a smaller diameter than the piston portions (64, 65), and extends in the axial direction so as to be coaxial with the axis of the cylinder member (61).

  The first piston portion (64) partitions the first cylinder chamber (C1) into a first water receiving chamber (W1) and a first air chamber (A1). The first water receiving chamber (W1) is formed between the first closing portion (61b) and the first piston portion (64). The first air chamber (A1) is formed between the first piston part (64) and the partition part (62). That is, in the first cylinder chamber (C1), the first air chamber (A1) is partitioned on the partitioning portion (62) side with the first piston portion (64) interposed therebetween, and the first piston portion (64) is sandwiched therebetween. A second air chamber (A2) is partitioned on the side opposite to the partition (62).

  The second piston portion (65) partitions the second cylinder chamber (C2) into a second water receiving chamber (W2) and a second air chamber (A2). The second water receiving chamber (W2) is formed between the second closing portion (61c) and the second piston portion (65). The second air chamber (A2) is formed between the second piston part (65) and the partition part (62). That is, in the second cylinder chamber (C2), the second air chamber (A2) is partitioned on the partition portion (62) side with the second piston portion (65) interposed therebetween, and the second piston portion (65) is sandwiched therebetween. A second water receiving chamber (W2) is partitioned on the side opposite to the partition portion (62).

  A first water port (53) is connected to the first water receiving chamber (W1). A first discharge port (55) and a first suction port (57) constituting a discharge port are connected to the first air chamber (A1). A second water port (54) is connected to the second water receiving chamber (W2). The second air chamber (A2) is connected to a second discharge port (56) and a second suction port (58) that constitute a discharge port. Each inflow end of the first suction port (57) and the second suction port (58) opens into the air (in the atmosphere) such as indoors or outdoors.

  Inside each suction port (57, 58), a valve seat (57a, 58a), a ball valve (57b, 58b), and a spring (57c, 58c) are provided. The ball valves (57b, 57b) are arranged on the inflow side with respect to the valve seat portions (57a, 58a), and are urged toward the valve seat portions (57a, 58a) by the spring portions (57c, 58c). The valve seat (57a, 58a), ball valve (57b, 58b), and spring (57c, 58c) are cylinder members through which the air in each air chamber (A1, A2) passes through each intake port (57,58). (61) constitutes a check valve that prohibits outflow.

  Inside each discharge port (55, 56), a valve seat (55a, 56a), a ball valve (55b, 56b), and a spring (55c, 56c) are provided. The ball valve (55b, 56b) is disposed on the outflow side of the valve seat portion (55a, 55a) and is urged toward the valve seat portion (57a, 58a) by the spring portion (57c, 58c). The valve seat (55a, 56a), ball valve (55b, 56b), and spring (55c, 56c) discharge port (55, 56) when the internal pressure of the air chamber (A1, A2) exceeds the specified pressure The discharge valve that opens is configured.

  The piston member (63) is displaced by receiving the pressure of tap water flowing into the water receiving chambers (W1, W2), and reduces the volume of the air chamber (A1, A2). Specifically, the piston member (63) is displaced by the water pressure of the first water receiving chamber (W1) to reduce the volume of the first air chamber (A1), and the second water receiving chamber (W2). ) And a second operation for reducing the volume of the second air chamber (A2).

  Moreover, in each piston part (64,65), the area of the pressure receiving surface Sw1, Sw2 facing each water receiving chamber (W1, W2) side is larger than the area of the pressure increasing surface Sa1, Sa2 facing the air chamber (A1, A2). Is also getting bigger. Specifically, the first piston portion (64) is provided with a piston rod (66) on the end surface on the first air chamber (A1) side. Therefore, in the first piston part (64), the area of the part facing the first water receiving chamber (W1) (that is, the area of the pressure receiving surface Sw1) is the part facing the first air chamber (A1). Is smaller by the area of the cross section perpendicular to the axis of the piston rod (66) than the area (that is, the area of the pressure increasing surface Sa1). Similarly, in the second piston portion (65), a piston rod (66) is provided on the end surface on the second air chamber (A2) side. Therefore, in the second piston part (65), the area of the part facing the second water receiving chamber (W2) (that is, the area of the pressure receiving surface Sw2) is the part facing the second air chamber (A2). Is smaller by the area of the cross section perpendicular to the axis of the piston rod (66) than the area (that is, the area of the pressure increasing surface Sa2).

-Driving action-
The operation of the hot water supply system (S) according to the reference form 1 will be described.

<basic action>
During operation of the hot water supply system (S), tap water is appropriately supplied to the hot water storage tank (30), and the water in the hot water storage tank (30) is appropriately heated. Moreover, the hot water produced | generated with the hot water storage tank (30) is suitably supplied to utilization objects, such as a shower (2). Such a basic operation of the hot water supply system (S) will be described with reference to FIG.

  During operation of the hot water supply system (S), water in the water supply pipe is appropriately supplied to the hot water storage tank (30) through the water supply channel (21). Specifically, the water in the water supply pipe passes through the air compression unit (50). At this time, in the air compression unit (50), air is compressed by the water pressure of tap water, and this air is stored in the pressure accumulation tank (41) (details will be described later). The water that has passed through the air compression unit (50) is depressurized by the pressure reducing valve (32). The decompressed water flows into the hot water storage tank (30). By reducing the pressure of the water by the pressure reducing valve (32) in this way, the pressure in the hot water storage tank (30) is also lowered. Therefore, the pressure resistance of the hot water storage tank (30) can be sufficiently secured.

  The water in the hot water storage tank (30) is appropriately heated by the heat source unit (10a). Specifically, during the heating operation for heating the water in the hot water storage tank (30), the compressor (11) and the outdoor fan (16) are operated, and the opening degree of the expansion valve (13) is appropriately adjusted. Thereby, a refrigerating cycle is performed in a refrigerant circuit (15). Specifically, in this refrigeration cycle, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor (11) dissipates heat in the first internal flow path (12a) of the water heat exchanger (12). The radiated refrigerant is decompressed by the expansion valve (13), evaporated by the outdoor heat exchanger (14), and sucked into the compressor (11).

  During the heating operation, the first circulation pump (34) is operated, and the three-way switching valve (35) is switched to the state shown by the solid line in FIG. Thereby, the hot water storage tank (30) flows into the heating circulation channel (22) and flows through the second internal channel (12b) of the water heat exchanger (12). In the water heat exchanger (12), the heat of the refrigerant flowing through the first internal channel (12a) is imparted to the water flowing through the second internal channel (12b). Thereby, the water flowing through the second internal flow path (12b) is heated to a predetermined temperature. The water heated in the second internal channel (12b) is returned to the hot water storage tank (30).

  The hot water generated in the hot water storage tank (30) is appropriately supplied to the shower (2) and other utilization objects. Specifically, during the supply operation for supplying hot water from the hot water storage tank (30), the hot water supply mixing valve (36) opens the supply passage (23). Thereby, the hot water in the hot water storage tank (30) is conveyed by the internal pressure of the hot water storage tank (30) and passes through the hot water supply mixing valve (36). At this time, the hot water mixing valve (36) also appropriately adjusts the opening degree of the port on the branch path (26) side. Thereby, the hot water supplied from the hot water storage tank (30) side and the water (cold water) supplied from the branch path (26) side are mixed at a predetermined ratio, and the temperature of the supplied water is adjusted. The water whose temperature has been adjusted in this way passes through the pressurizing unit (70) and is then sent to the shower (2).

<Operation of solar panel unit>
In the solar panel unit (91), the angle of the solar panel (92) is adjusted according to the direction of sunlight. In the hot water supply system (S), compressed air supplied from the air compression unit (50) is used as a drive source of the solar panel (92). The operation of the solar panel unit (91) will be described with reference to FIGS.

  When the solar panel (92) is driven in the hot water supply system (S), the three-way switching mechanism (42) is switched to the state indicated by the broken line in FIG. Thereby, the compressed air stored in the pressure accumulation tank (41) is sent to the supply / exhaust mechanism (105) side. In this state, the solar panel control unit (112) controls the air supply / exhaust switching valves (108, 109) according to the position (direction) of the sun. In more detail, the solar panel control unit (112) determines whether the solar panel (92) is detected based on the angular position of the solar panel (92) and the solar radiation direction detected by the solar radiation sensor (111). The required rotation angle of the light panel (92) is calculated. And a solar panel control part (112) controls each supply / exhaust switching valve (108,109) so that a solar panel (92) may be displaced by the calculated rotation angle, and expands / contracts each air bag (101,102).

  For example, it is assumed that the sun is located on the east side (for example, the upper right side in FIG. 3). In this case, the solar panel control unit (112) has a position where the receiving part (102b) of the second air bag (102) provided closer to the east side is lower than the receiving part (101b) of the first air bag (101). In this manner, the respective supply / exhaust switching valves (108, 109) are controlled. Specifically, in this case, the second air supply / exhaust flow path (107b) and the second exhaust path (107c) are communicated with each other by setting the second air supply / exhaust switching valve (109) to the second state. Thereby, the compressed air in the second air bag (102) is released into the atmosphere through the second discharge path (107c). As a result, the second air bladder (102) gradually contracts, and the receiving portion (102b) of the second air bladder (102) is displaced downward. At the same time, by setting the first supply / exhaust switching valve (108) to the first state, the first relay flow path (106a) and the first supply / exhaust flow path (106b) are communicated. Thereby, the compressed air on the first relay channel (106a) side flows into the first air bag (101). As a result, the first air bag (101) gradually expands, and the first receiving portion (101b) of the first air bag (101) is displaced upward. As described above, the solar panel (92) can be adjusted to the angular position as shown in FIG. 3A by adjusting the height position of each receiving portion (101b, 102b).

  For example, assume that the sun is located on the south side (for example, the upper side in FIG. 3). In this case, the solar panel control unit (112) is configured so that the receiving part (101b) of the first air bag (101) and the receiving part (102b) of the second air bag (102) are in the same position. The supply / exhaust switching valve (108, 109) is controlled. Specifically, in this case, the first supply / exhaust switching valve (108) and the second supply / exhaust switching valve (109) are appropriately switched to the first state or the second state, so that each receiving portion (101b, 102b) Are displaced by the same height. As described above, the solar panel (92) can be adjusted to an angular position as shown in FIG. 3B by adjusting the height positions of the receiving portions (101b, 102b).

  For example, assume that the sun is located on the west side (for example, the upper left side in FIG. 3). In this case, the solar panel control unit (112) is arranged so that the receiving part (101b) of the first air bag (101) is lower than the receiving part (102b) of the second air bag (102). The supply / exhaust switching valve (108, 109) is controlled. Specifically, in this case, the first supply / exhaust switching valve (108) is set to the second state, and the second supply / exhaust switching valve (109) is set to the first state. As a result, the first air bladder (101) can be contracted to displace the receiving portion (101b) downward. At the same time, the receiving part (101b) can be displaced upward by contracting the second air bag (102). As described above, the solar panel (92) can be adjusted to an angular position as shown in FIG. 3C by adjusting the height positions of the receiving portions (101b, 102b).

  As described above, when sunlight is given to the light receiving surface (92a) of the solar panel (92), the solar panel (92) generates DC power. This DC power is output to the power conditioner (115) and converted into AC power by the power conditioner (115). The AC power output from the power conditioner (115) is supplied to the heat source unit (10a) and other power supply targets.

  At this time, in the power conditioner (115), heat is released from the heat generating component by switching the switching element or the like. This heat is applied to the water flowing through the cooling water passage (39b) through the heat radiating portion (115a) and the jacket portion (39a). As a result, the heat generating component of the power conditioner (115) can be cooled. It absorbs heat from the heat generating parts of the power conditioner (115) and flows into the hot water storage tank (30). Thereby, the heat from the power conditioner (115) can be used to generate hot water in the hot water storage tank (30).

<Operation of air compression unit>
During the basic operation described above, the air compression unit (50) compresses air using the water pressure of tap water. The operation of the air compression unit (50) will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In the operation of the air compression unit (50), a first operation for compressing the air in the first air chamber (A1) and a second operation for compressing the air in the second air chamber (A2) are performed at predetermined intervals. Are executed alternately. Thereby, in the air compression unit (50), compressed air is continuously generated. At the start of operation of the air compression unit (50), either the first operation or the second operation is performed. Here, a case where the first operation is performed first will be described.

  When the first operation for the first time is started, the water flow path switching unit (51) and the air flow path switching unit (52) are each in the first state (the state indicated by the solid line in FIG. 5). As a result, the first water port (53) communicates with the water pipe side, and the second water port (54) communicates with the use target side (hot water storage tank (30) side). At the same time, the first discharge port (55) and the air flow path (40) communicate with each other. Here, in this first operation, there is no water in each receiving chamber (W1, W2). For this reason, when the first operation is started, the first water receiving chamber (W1) is filled with water through the first water port (53) (see FIG. 6A). On the other hand, since the second water receiving chamber (W2) is not filled with water, water does not flow out to the second water port (54).

  In the state shown in FIG. 6A, when further water flows into the first water receiving chamber (W1) from the first water port (53), the water pressure acts on the pressure receiving surface Sw1 of the first piston portion (64), The piston member (63) is displaced toward the second closing portion (61c) (see FIG. 6B). As a result, the volume of the first air chamber (A1) gradually decreases, and the air in the first air chamber (A1) is compressed. At this time, the pressure receiving surface Sw1 of the first piston portion (64) is larger than the air pressure increasing surface Sa1 of the first air chamber (A1). For this reason, according to the Pascal principle, the air in the first air chamber (A1) can be increased to a pressure higher than the tap water pressure on the first water receiving chamber (W1) side.

  Further, when the second piston part (65) is displaced toward the second closing part (61c) together with the first piston part (64), the volume of the second air chamber (A2) is gradually increased. Thereby, the air outside the cylinder member (61) is sucked into the second air chamber (A2) through the second suction port (58).

  When the air in the first air chamber (A1) reaches a predetermined pressure or higher, the ball valve (55b) of the first discharge port (55) is opened. As a result, the compressed air in the first air chamber (A1) is discharged to the air flow path (40) through the first discharge port (55) (see FIG. 6C). The compressed air discharged to the air flow path (40) is stored in the pressure accumulation tank (41).

  When a predetermined time elapses after the first first operation is performed, the second operation is executed. In the second operation, the water flow path switching unit (51) and the air flow path switching unit (52) are each in the second state (the state indicated by the broken line in FIG. 5). As a result, the second water port (54) communicates with the water pipe side, and the first water port (53) communicates with the use target side (hot water storage tank (30) side). At the same time, the second discharge port (56) and the air flow path (40) communicate with each other. When the second operation is started, the second water receiving chamber (W2) is filled with water through the second water port (54) (see FIG. 7A).

  In the state shown in FIG. 7A, when further water flows into the second water receiving chamber (W2) from the second water port (54), water pressure acts on the pressure receiving surface Sw2 of the second piston portion (65), The piston member (63) is displaced toward the first closing portion (61b) (see FIG. 7B). As a result, the volume of the second air chamber (A2) gradually decreases, and the air in the second air chamber (A2) is compressed. At this time, the pressure receiving surface Sw2 of the second piston portion (65) is larger than the air pressure increasing surface Sa2 of the second air chamber (A2). For this reason, the air in the second air chamber (A2) can be increased to a pressure higher than the pressure of tap water on the second water receiving chamber (W2) side by the Pascal principle.

  Further, when the first piston part (64) is displaced toward the first closing part (61b) together with the second piston part (65), the volume of the first water receiving chamber (W1) gradually decreases, The volume of one air chamber (A1) gradually increases. For this reason, the water of a 1st water receiving chamber (W1) flows out into a 1st water port (53), and is supplied to a hot water storage tank (30) via a water supply channel (21). At the same time, air outside the cylinder member (61) is drawn into the first air chamber (A1) through the first suction port (57) (see FIG. 7B).

  When the air in the second air chamber (A2) reaches a predetermined pressure or higher, the ball valve (56b) of the second discharge port (56) is opened. As a result, the compressed air in the second air chamber (A2) is discharged to the air flow path (40) through the second discharge port (56) (see FIG. 7C). The compressed air discharged to the air flow path (40) is stored in the pressure accumulation tank (41).

  When a predetermined time elapses after the second operation is performed, the first operation is executed again. Thereby, water flows into the first water receiving chamber (W1) from the first water port (53), and the piston member (63) is displaced toward the second closing portion (61c) (FIG. 8A, FIG. 8 (B)). Thereby, the air in the first air chamber (A1) is compressed, and the water in the second water receiving chamber (W2) is supplied to the hot water storage tank (30) through the second water port (54). At the same time, the air outside the cylinder member (61) is sucked into the second air chamber (A2).

  When the air in the first air chamber (A1) exceeds a predetermined pressure, the first ball valve (55b) of the first discharge port (55) is opened. As a result, the compressed air in the first air chamber (A1) is discharged to the air flow path (40) through the first discharge port (55) (see FIG. 8C). The compressed air discharged to the air flow path (40) is stored in the pressure accumulation tank (41).

  Thereafter, the second operation shown in FIG. 7 and the first operation shown in FIG. 8 are alternately repeated. Thereby, from the air compression unit (50), compressed air is continuously supplied to the pressure accumulation tank (41) side, and tap water is continuously supplied to the hot water storage tank (30) side.

<Pressure unit operation>
In the hot water supply unit (10) of the hot water supply system (S), as described above, the pressure of tap water is reduced by the pressure reducing valve (32) as the pressure reducing mechanism and then supplied to the hot water storage tank (30). Thereby, even if the water pressure of the water supply pipe is relatively high, the internal pressure of the hot water storage tank (30) does not become excessively high. Therefore, the pressure resistance of the hot water storage tank (30) can be ensured. On the other hand, when the pressure of tap water is reduced by the pressure reducing valve (32) in this way, the water pressure of the water supplied to the utilization target such as the shower (2) also decreases. Therefore, the water pressure discharged from the shower (2) becomes small, and there arises a problem that water with a sufficient discharge pressure cannot be supplied from the shower (2) to the user or the like. Therefore, in the hot water supply unit (10) of the present embodiment 1, the pressure unit (70) is driven using the compressed air compressed by the air compression unit (50), and the shower (2 ) Discharge water is pressurized.

  Specifically, during operation of the pressurizing unit (70), the three-way switching mechanism (42) is in the state shown by the solid line in FIG. 1, and the first port and the second port communicate with each other. Thereby, the compressed air in the pressure accumulation tank (41) is supplied to the pressurizing unit (70) side. This compressed air flows into the air introduction chamber (77) in the casing (71) from the air suction port (74) shown in FIG.

  When compressed air flows into the air introduction chamber (77), the impeller (81) is rotationally driven by this air. Then, the output shaft (82) connected to the impeller (81) also rotates. The rotational motion of the output shaft (82) is converted into the reciprocating motion of the driven rod portion (84) by the linear motion converting mechanism (83). Thereby, the driven rod part (84) is displaced alternately between the position of FIG. 4 (A) and the position of FIG. 4 (B). Accordingly, the diaphragm portion (75) connected to the driven rod portion (84) is alternately deformed into the state of FIG. 4 (A) and the state of FIG. 4 (B).

  As described above, when the diaphragm portion (75) is deformed, water is pressurized in the water pressurizing chamber (76). Specifically, when the pressurizing unit (70) is switched from the state of FIG. 4 (B) to the state of FIG. 4 (A), the ball valve (72b) of the suction water port (72) is opened, and the supply path ( 23) is introduced into the water pressurization chamber (76) through the suction water port (72). 4A again, the volume of the water pressurizing chamber (76) decreases, and the water in the water pressurizing chamber (76) is pressurized. As described above, when the water pressure in the water pressurizing chamber (76) becomes a predetermined pressure or higher, the ball valve (73b) of the discharge water port (73) is opened. As a result, the pressurized water is supplied to the shower (2) through the discharge water port (73) and supplied to the user or the like as a relatively high pressure discharge water.

-Effect of Reference Form 1-
In the air compression unit (50) of the first embodiment , air is compressed using tap water pressure. Thereby, the excessive pressure of tap water can be used effectively, and it can contribute to the improvement of energy-saving property.

In Reference Form 1, while compressing air in the first air chamber (A1), the tap water is replenished to the first water receiving chamber (W1) and the water in the second water receiving chamber (W2) is used (2 ) First operation to send to the side, compressing air in the second air chamber (A2), replenishing the tap water with the second water receiving chamber (W2), and water in the first water receiving chamber (W1) The second operation sent to the usage target (2) side is alternately performed. Thereby, tap water can be supplied to a utilization object (2) side, producing | generating compressed air continuously with an air compression unit (50).

In the reference form 1, the area of the water pressure receiving surfaces Sw1, Sw2 in the water receiving chambers (W1, W2) is larger than the area of the air pressure increasing surfaces Sa1, Sa2 in the air chambers (A1, A2). The air in the air chamber (A1, A2) can be increased to a pressure higher than the tap water pressure. Therefore, compressed air with a relatively high pressure can be obtained.

In particular, in Reference Mode 1, since compressed air is generated using the pressure of tap water before being reduced by the pressure reducing valve (32), the pressure of the compressed air obtained by the air compression unit (50) is reduced. It can be further increased.

In the reference form 1, one piston member (63) is accommodated in one cylinder member (61), and two water receiving chambers (W1, W2) and two air chambers (A1, A2) are formed. Due to the structure, the structure of this device is also relatively simple. Therefore, the manufacturing cost of the air compression unit (50) can also be reduced.

In the reference form 1, the compressed air generated by the air compression unit (50) is used as a driving source for the pressurization unit (70) and the solar panel (92). For this reason, the hot water supply system excellent in energy saving property which can collect | recover the energy of the excess water pressure as these drive sources can be provided.

In the reference form 1, the water pressurized by the pressure unit (70) is discharged from the shower (2). Thereby, even if the pressure of tap water is reduced by the pressure reducing valve (32) in order to ensure the pressure resistance of the hot water storage tank (30), water with a sufficient discharge pressure can be ejected from the shower (2).

<< Reference form 2 >>
The hot water supply system (S) according to the reference form 2 is different from the reference form 1 in the configuration of the air compression unit (50). As shown in FIG. 10, the air compression unit of the reference embodiment 2 (50), the same manner as in Embodiment 1, the water channel switcher (51), an air flow path switching section (52), and the valve control unit (not shown )have. On the other hand, reference embodiment 2 of the air compressor (60) is different from the reference embodiment 1 is configured in two cylinder type having two cylinder member (121, 122).

  The two cylinder members (121, 122) are composed of a first cylinder member (121) and a second cylinder member (122). Each cylinder member (121,122) includes a cylindrical body (121a, 122a), a first closing part (121b, 122b) that closes one end of the cylindrical body (121a, 122a) in the axial direction, and a cylindrical body A second closing portion (121c, 122c) that closes the other end in the axial direction of the portion (121a, 122a). A first cylinder chamber (C1) is formed inside the first cylinder member (121), and a second cylinder chamber (C2) is formed inside the second cylinder member (122). The first cylinder chamber (C1) is larger in diameter than the second cylinder chamber (C2) and has a shorter axial length.

Air compression unit of Reference Embodiment 2 (50), similarly as in Reference Embodiment 1, has a piston member (123). The piston member (123) includes a first piston portion (124) accommodated in the first cylinder chamber (C1), a second piston portion (125) accommodated in the second cylinder chamber (C2), and both pistons. And a piston rod (126) for connecting the portions (124, 125) to constitute a displacement member. The first piston part (124) and the second piston part (125) are formed in a disc shape, and the first piston part (124) has a larger diameter than the second piston part (125). The piston rod (126) passes through the second closing part (121c) of the first cylinder member (121) and the first closing part (122b) of the second cylinder member (122), and both piston parts (124, 125) Are connected. The piston rod (126) is formed with a smaller diameter than the piston portions (124, 125), and extends in the axial direction so as to be coaxial with the axis of the cylinder members (121, 122).

  The first piston part (124) partitions the first cylinder chamber (C1) into a first water receiving chamber (W1) and a second water receiving chamber (W2). The first water receiving chamber (W1) is formed between the first closing portion (121b) and the first piston portion (124). The second water receiving chamber (W2) is formed between the first piston part (64) and the second closing part (121c). That is, in the first cylinder chamber (C1), the first water receiving chamber (W1) is formed on one end side (the first closing portion (121b) side) in the axial direction across the first piston portion (124). A second water receiving chamber (W2) is formed on the other end side in the axial direction (second closing portion (121c) side) with the first piston portion (124) interposed therebetween.

  The second piston portion (125) divides the second cylinder chamber (C2) into a first air chamber (A1) and a second air chamber (A2). The first air chamber (A1) is formed between the second closing part (122c) and the second piston part (125). The second air chamber (A2) is formed between the second piston part (125) and the first closing part (122b). That is, in the second cylinder chamber (C2), the first air chamber (A1) is formed on one end side (the second closing portion (122c) side) in the axial direction across the second piston portion (125). A second air chamber (A2) is formed on the other end side in the axial direction (the first closing portion (122b) side) with the two piston portions (125) interposed therebetween.

The reference embodiment 2 of the air compressor (120), in the same manner as in Reference Embodiment 1, six ports (53-58) are connected. Specifically, in the first cylinder member (121), the first water port (53) is connected to the first water receiving chamber (W1), and the second water port (54) is connected to the second water receiving chamber (W2). Connected. In the second cylinder member (122), the inflow end of the first discharge port (55) and the outflow end of the first suction port (57) are connected to the first air chamber (A1), and the second air chamber (A2) ) Is connected to the inflow end of the second discharge port (56) and the outflow end of the second suction port (58).

Also in the air compressor (120) of the reference form 2, the area of the pressure receiving surfaces Sw1, Sw2 facing the water receiving chambers (W1, W2) is larger than the pressure increasing surfaces Sa1, Sa2 facing the air chambers (A1, A2). It is getting bigger. Specifically, in the piston member (123), the area of the pressure receiving surface Sw1 on the first water receiving chamber (W1) side in the first piston portion (124) is equal to the first air chamber (A1 in the second piston portion (125). ) Side pressure increase surface Sa1 is larger than the area. In the piston member (123), the area of the pressure receiving surface Sw2 on the second water receiving chamber (W2) side in the first piston portion (124) is equal to the second air chamber (A2) side in the second piston portion (125). It is larger than the area of the pressure increasing surface Sa2.

<Compression operation>
The operation of the air compression unit (50) of the reference form 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. In the air compression unit (50) of the reference form 2, as in the reference form 1, the first action for compressing the air in the first air chamber (A1) and the second action for compressing the air in the second air chamber (A2). Are alternately executed at predetermined intervals.

  When the first operation for the first time is started, the water flow path switching unit (51) and the air flow path switching unit (52) are each in the first state (the state indicated by the solid line in FIG. 10). As a result, tap water in the water supply pipe flows into the first water receiving chamber (W1) through the first water port (53). On the other hand, the second water receiving chamber (W2) communicates with the second water port (54), but the second water receiving chamber (W2) is not filled with water. Will not flow.

  In the state shown in FIG. 11A, when further water flows into the first water receiving chamber (W1) from the first water port (53), the water pressure acts on the pressure receiving surface Sw1 of the first piston portion (124), The piston member (123) is displaced toward the second closing portion (121c, 122,) (see FIG. 11B). As a result, the volume of the first air chamber (A1) gradually decreases, and the air in the first air chamber (A1) is compressed. At this time, the pressure receiving surface Sw1 of the first piston portion (124) is larger than the air pressure increasing surface Sa1 of the first air chamber (A1). For this reason, according to the Pascal principle, the air in the first air chamber (A1) can be increased to a pressure higher than the tap water pressure on the first water receiving chamber (W1) side.

  In the second cylinder member (122), the volume of the second air chamber (A2) gradually increases with the displacement of the second piston part (125). Thereby, the air outside the second cylinder member (122) is sucked into the second air chamber (A2) through the second suction port (58).

  When the air in the first air chamber (A1) reaches a predetermined pressure or higher, the ball valve (55b) of the first discharge port (55) is opened. As a result, the compressed air in the first air chamber (A1) is discharged to the air flow path (40) through the first discharge port (55) (see FIG. 11C). The compressed air discharged to the air flow path (40) is stored in the pressure accumulation tank (41).

  When a predetermined time elapses after the first first operation is performed, the second operation is executed. In the second operation, the water flow path switching unit (51) and the air flow path switching unit (52) are each in the second state (the state indicated by the broken line in FIG. 10). As a result, tap water in the water supply pipe flows into the second pressure receiving chamber (W2) through the second water port (54).

  In the state shown in FIG. 12A, when further water flows into the second water receiving chamber (W2) from the second water port (54), water pressure acts on the pressure receiving surface Sw2 of the second piston portion (125), The piston member (123) is displaced toward the first closing portion (121b, 122b) (see FIG. 12B). As a result, the volume of the second air chamber (A2) gradually decreases, and the air in the second air chamber (A2) is compressed. At this time, the pressure receiving surface Sw2 of the second piston portion (125) is larger than the air pressure increasing surface Sa2 of the second air chamber (A2). For this reason, the air in the second air chamber (A2) can be increased to a pressure higher than the pressure of tap water on the second water receiving chamber (W2) side by the Pascal principle.

  In the second cylinder member (122), the volume of the first air chamber (A1) gradually increases with the displacement of the second piston part (125). Thereby, the air outside the second cylinder member (122) is sucked into the first air chamber (A1). In the first cylinder member (121), the volume of the first water receiving chamber (W1) gradually decreases with the displacement of the first piston portion (124). Therefore, the water in the first water receiving chamber (W1) flows out to the first water port (53) and is supplied to the hot water storage tank (30) through the water supply channel (21) (FIG. 12B). See).

  When the air in the second air chamber (A2) reaches a predetermined pressure or higher, the ball valve (56b) of the second discharge port (56) is opened. As a result, the compressed air in the second air chamber (A2) is discharged to the air flow path (40) through the second discharge port (56) (see FIG. 12C). The compressed air discharged to the air flow path (40) is stored in the pressure accumulation tank (41).

  When a predetermined time elapses after the second operation is performed, the first operation is executed again. As a result, water flows from the first water port (53) into the first water receiving chamber (W1), and the piston member (123) is displaced toward the second closing portion (121c, 122c) (FIG. 13A). FIG. 13B). Thereby, the air in the first air chamber (A1) is compressed, and the water in the second water receiving chamber (W2) is supplied to the hot water storage tank (30) through the second water port (54). At the same time, air outside the second cylinder member (122) is sucked into the second air chamber (A2).

  When the air in the first air chamber (A1) exceeds a predetermined pressure, the first ball valve (55b) of the first discharge port (55) is opened. As a result, the compressed air in the first air chamber (A1) is discharged to the air flow path (40) through the first discharge port (55) (see FIG. 13C). The compressed air discharged to the air flow path (40) is stored in the pressure accumulation tank (41).

  Thereafter, the second operation shown in FIG. 12 and the first operation shown in FIG. 13 are alternately repeated. Thereby, from the air compression unit (50), compressed air is continuously supplied to the pressure accumulation tank (41) side, and tap water is continuously supplied to the hot water storage tank (30) side.

-Effect of Reference Form 2-
In the air compression unit (50) of the reference form 2, as in the reference form 1, by alternately performing the first operation and the second operation, the compressed water is continuously generated and the tap water is used ( 2) Can be supplied to the side. In addition, the area of the water pressure receiving surfaces Sw1, Sw2 in the water receiving chambers (W1, W2) is larger than the area of the air pressure increasing surfaces Sa1, Sa2 in the air chambers (A1, A2). A1, A2) air can be increased to a pressure higher than tap water pressure.

In particular, in the air compression unit (50) of Reference Embodiment 2, since the two cylinder members (121, 122) are formed separately, the area of the pressure receiving surfaces Sw1, Sw2 is easier than the area of the pressure increasing surfaces Sa1, Sa2. Can be bigger.

<< Reference Form 3 >>
The hot water supply system (S) of the reference form 3 is different from the reference form in the configuration of the pressure unit (70). The pressurizing unit (70) of the reference form 3 is connected in the vicinity of the upstream of the shower (2). As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the pressurizing unit (70) of Reference Embodiment 3 includes an ejector mechanism (130), and is configured by a so-called ejector type pressurizing mechanism.

  The ejector mechanism (130) includes a water introduction channel (131), a columnar channel (132), a reduced diameter channel (133), a mixing channel (134), an expansion channel in order from the upstream side to the downstream side of the water flow. A radial channel (135) and a water outlet channel (136) are provided. Water from the hot water storage tank (30) flows into the water introduction path (131). The columnar channel (132) is formed in a columnar shape, the water introduction channel (131) is connected outward in the circumferential direction, and the reduced diameter channel (133) is connected to one end in the axial direction. The reduced-diameter channel (133) forms a substantially conical channel that gradually decreases the area of the channel cross-section as it goes downstream.

  The mixing channel (134) is connected between the reduced diameter channel (133) and the enlarged diameter channel (135). The mixed channel (134) has substantially the same channel cross-sectional shape from the inflow end to the outflow end. The channel length of the mixing channel (134) is longer than that of the reduced diameter channel (133) and the enlarged diameter channel (135).

  The diameter-enlarging channel (135) decreases the flow rate of the water that has flowed out of the mixing channel (134) and increases the pressure of the water. The diameter-enlarged flow path (135) forms a substantially conical flow path that gradually increases the cross-sectional area as it goes downstream. A water outlet channel (136) is connected to the downstream end of the enlarged diameter channel (135). A shower (2) (not shown) is connected to the downstream end of the water outlet channel (136).

  The ejector mechanism (130) has an air nozzle (137). The air nozzle (137) has an air introduction path (137a), an air contraction path (137b), and an air outlet path (137c) in order from the upstream side to the downstream side of the air flow.

  The air introduction path (137a) is connected to the first air supply path (44) to which compressed air is supplied. The air contraction path (137b) is connected to the downstream end of the air introduction path (137a) and is formed inside the columnar channel (132). The air contraction path (137b) reduces the air flow path to increase the speed of the air. The air contraction path (137b) has a substantially conical shape that gradually reduces the area of the air flow path cross section as it advances downstream. The air outlet path (137c) is connected to the downstream end of the air contraction path (137b) and is formed inside the contraction path (133). The downstream end of the air outlet path (137c) opens to the upstream side of the mixing channel (134). Thereby, in the mixing channel (134), in the mixing channel (134), the water flowing out from the reduced diameter channel (133) and the compressed air supplied from the air nozzle (137) are mixed.

<Pressurization operation>
The pressurizing operation of the pressurizing unit (70) of the reference form 3 will be described. During the operation of the pressurizing unit (70), the three-way switching mechanism (42) is in the state indicated by the solid line in FIG. 14, and the first port and the second port are in communication. Thereby, the compressed air in the pressure accumulation tank (41) is supplied to the pressurizing unit (70) side. This compressed air flows into the air nozzle (137) of the ejector mechanism (130) as shown in FIG. The water flowing into the air nozzle (137) passes through the air introduction path (137a), is accelerated by the air contraction path (137b), and then goes to the mixing flow path (134) via the air outlet path (137c). leak.

  On the other hand, the water supplied from the hot water storage tank (30) flows into the water introduction path (131) of the ejector mechanism (130). This water flows out into the columnar channel (132) and is guided in a right angle direction, and then flows through the reduced diameter channel (133). A negative pressure is applied to the reduced diameter flow path (133) by the compressed air ejected from the air nozzle (137). For this reason, the water in the reduced diameter channel (133) is drawn into the compressed air and flows out into the mixing channel (134), and the speed is increased in the mixing channel (134). At the same time, air and water are mixed in the mixing channel (134). The water in the mixing channel (134) flows through the diameter-enlarging channel (135), so that the channel cross section is enlarged and decelerated. As a result, the water pressure is increased in the diameter-enlarged flow path (135). As described above, the pressurized water is sent to the shower (2) together with air. Thereby, a relatively high pressure discharge water is supplied to the user or the like from the shower (2).

-Effect of Reference Form 3-
In the reference form 3, as in the reference form 1, water pressurized by the pressure unit (70) is discharged from the shower (2). Thereby, even if the pressure of tap water is reduced by the pressure reducing valve (32) in order to ensure the pressure resistance of the hot water storage tank (30), water with a sufficient discharge pressure can be ejected from the shower (2).

In Reference Mode 3, an ejector-type pressurizing mechanism having an ejector mechanism (130) is used as the pressurizing unit (70). For this reason, the pressure of water can be efficiently raised using the suction pressure by compressed air. Moreover, since water and compressed air mix in the mixing channel (134), water containing fine air can be ejected from the shower (2). In this way, it is possible to obtain a desired cleaning effect while reducing the amount of water ejected from the shower (2). Therefore, tap water can be saved.

<< Reference Form 4 >>
In the hot water supply system (S) according to Reference Embodiment 4, first circulation pump of the Reference Embodiment 1 (34), and a second circulation pump (38) is, pressurization unit (70) of the Reference Embodiment 1 (FIG. 4 It is composed of a diaphragm-type pump having the same structure as that of the reference). That is, in the reference form 4, the first circulation pump (34) and the second circulation pump (38) are driven bodies that are driven by compressed air.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 16, the air flow path (40) of the reference embodiment 4 is provided with a third air supply path (48) branched from the main air supply path (43). The downstream side of the third supply passage (48) branches into a first pump-side supply passage (48a) and a second pump-side supply passage (48b). The downstream end of the first pump side air supply path (48a) is connected to the air introduction chamber (77a) of the first circulation pump (34). The downstream end of the second pump side air supply path (48b) is connected to the air introduction chamber (77b) of the second circulation pump (38). The first pump-side air supply passage (48a) is connected to the first on-off valve (49a), and the second pump-side air supply passage (48b) is connected to the second on-off valve (49b). Yes. These on-off valves (49a, 49b) are constituted by, for example, electromagnetic on-off valves.

  During the operation of the first circulation pump (34), the first on-off valve (49a) is opened. Thereby, the compressed air in the pressure accumulating tank (41) is supplied to the air introduction chamber (77a) of the first circulation pump (34), and the diaphragm portion (75a) is in the state shown in FIG. ) And deformed alternately. As a result, the volume of the water pressurizing chamber (76a) of the first circulation pump (34) is expanded and reduced, and the water in the heating circulation channel (22) is conveyed.

  Similarly, when the second circulation pump (38) is operated, the second on-off valve (49b) is opened. Thereby, the compressed air in the pressure accumulating tank (41) is supplied to the air introduction chamber (77b) of the second circulation pump (38), and the diaphragm portion (75b) is in the state shown in FIG. ) And deformed alternately. As a result, the volume of the water pressurization chamber (76b) of the second circulation pump (68) is expanded and reduced, and the water in the cooling circulation channel (28) is conveyed.

<< Reference Form 5 >>
In the hot water supply system (S) according to the reference form 5 shown in FIG. 17, instead of the shower (2) of the reference form 1, a faucet (3) is provided as a usage target. The faucet (3) is connected to the outflow end of the water flow path (20) and constitutes a discharge mechanism that discharges water at a predetermined pressure. In the reference form 5, the hot water storage tank (30) is disposed near the ground, while the faucet (3) is disposed on the third floor of the house. That is, in Reference Form 5, the utilization target to which water is supplied is located higher than the hot water storage tank (30).

Thus, when the faucet (3) is provided at a high position, the head from the hot water storage tank (30) to the faucet (3) becomes large, and the pressure of the water discharged from the faucet (3) tends to decrease. . However, in the vicinity of the upstream side of the faucet (3) of the reference form 5, a pressure unit (70) similar to that of the reference form 1 is provided. For this reason, the pressure of the discharge water supplied from the faucet (3) can be sufficiently secured.

<< Reference Form 6 >>
In the hot water supply system (S) according to Reference Embodiment 6 shown in FIG. 18, instead of the shower (2) of Reference Embodiment 1, a sprayer (4) is provided as a usage target. The sprayer (4) is connected to the outflow end of the water channel (20), and constitutes a discharge mechanism that discharges water at a predetermined pressure. In Reference Form 6, the hot water storage tank (30) is disposed near the ground, while the sprayer (4) is disposed above the roof. That is, also in the reference form 6, the utilization target to which water is supplied is located higher than the hot water storage tank (30).

Moreover, in the reference form 6, the jet nozzle of the sprayer (4) faces the light receiving surface (92a) of the solar panel (92). That is, the cleaning water is ejected from the sprayer (4) of the reference form 6 toward the light receiving surface (92a) of the solar panel (92). Thereby, a solar panel (92) can be wash | cleaned suitably using compressed air.

On the other hand, when the sprayer (4) is provided at a high position as described above, the water pressure of water ejected from the sprayer (4) is likely to decrease. However, in the vicinity of the upstream side of the reference form 6, a pressure unit (70) similar to that of the reference form 1 is provided. For this reason, the pressure of the discharge water shared from the sprayer (4) can be ensured enough, and the washing | cleaning effect of a solar panel (92) can fully be acquired.

<< Reference Form 7 >>
In the hot water supply system (S) according to Reference Embodiment 7 shown in FIG. 19, an air compression unit (50) similar to that of Reference Embodiment 1 is provided in a circuit between the hot water storage tank (30) and the utilization target (2). ing. Specifically, an air compression unit (50) and a pressure accumulating tank (41) are added to the outflow side of the escape passage (27) branched from the supply passage (23).

  As described above, in the hot water storage tank (30), water vapor is generated as hot water is generated, and therefore the internal pressure of the hot water storage tank (30) may become excessive. In this case, the relief valve (37) is opened, and the water in the hot water storage tank (30) escapes and flows out to the flow path (27). Therefore, in the example of FIG. 19, the air is compressed using the pressure of the water that has flowed out into the escape passage (27). Thereby, in the hot water supply system (S), the pressure of the water discharged from the escape passage (27) to the sewer pipe can be recovered as air pressure, and a predetermined driven body can be driven using this air pressure. .

<< Reference Form 8 >>
In the hot water supply system (S) according to Reference Embodiment 8 shown in FIG. 20, the height position of the inflow end of the cooling circulation channel (28) and the height position of the outflow end of the cooling circulation channel (28) are as described above. The position is different from that of the reference form 1. Specifically, in the example of FIG. 20, the height of the inflow end of the cooling circulation channel (28) is located in the middle of the hot water storage tank (30) in the vertical direction, and the outflow end of the cooling circulation channel (28). Is located near the upper part of the hot water storage tank (30). In this example, the circulating water that has absorbed heat from the heat generating component of the power conditioner (115) is returned to a relatively high part of the hot water storage tank (30). For this reason, it is possible to prevent the water temperature on the lower side of the hot water storage tank (30) from becoming too high. Therefore, the temperature of the water flowing out from the hot water storage tank (30) to the heating circulation channel (22) can be made relatively low. As a result, in the refrigerant circuit (15), the refrigerant (carbon dioxide) in the water heat exchanger (12) can be sufficiently dissipated, so that a desired refrigeration cycle can be performed.

<< Reference form 9 >>
In the hot water supply system (S) according to the reference form 9, a diaphragm type pressurizing mechanism different from the pressurizing unit (70) of the reference form 1 is applied.

  Specifically, the pressurizing unit (70) of the example shown in FIG. 21 has a water flow path formed inside the housing (140). This water flow path has an upstream branch path (141) communicating with the hot water storage tank (30) side and a downstream branch path (142) communicating with the shower (2) side. The outflow side of the upstream branch (141) branches into a first branch (141a) and a second branch (141b). Similarly, the inflow side of the downstream branch path (142) branches into a third branch path (142a) and a fourth branch path (142b). A first ball valve (143a) is provided at the outflow end of the first branch passage (141a), and a second ball valve (143b) is provided at the outflow end of the second branch passage (141b). A third ball valve (144a) is provided at the inflow end of the third branch passage (142a), and a fourth ball valve (144b) is provided at the inflow end of the fourth branch passage (142b).

  A first chamber (145) and a second chamber (146) are formed in the housing (140). The first chamber (145) is formed between the first branch path (141a) and the third branch path (142a). The second chamber (146) is formed between the second branch path (141b) and the fourth branch path (142b). The first chamber (145) is divided into a first water pressurizing chamber (145a) and a first air introduction chamber (145b) by the first diaphragm portion (147). The second chamber (146) is divided into a second water pressurization chamber (146a) and a second air introduction chamber (146b) by the second diaphragm portion (148). The first diaphragm part (147) and the second diaphragm part (148) are connected via a connecting shaft (149). The first water pressurizing chamber (145a) and the second water pressurizing chamber (146a) pressurize the water in the water flow path (20) with the displacement of the diaphragm portion (147,148) and send it to the shower (2). A pressure flow path is configured.

  An air supply chamber (150) into which compressed air from the air compression unit (50) side is supplied is formed inside the housing (140). The air supply chamber (150) communicates with the first air introduction chamber (145b) through the first switching channel (151) and communicates with the second air introduction chamber (146b) through the second switching channel (152). ing. In the pressurization unit (70), a first operation for supplying the compressed air in the air supply chamber (150) to the first air introduction chamber (145b) through the first switching channel (151) by a switching mechanism (not shown) (FIG. 21). (Operation shown in FIG. 21A) and a second operation (shown in FIG. 21B) for supplying the compressed air in the air supply chamber (150) to the second air introduction chamber (146b) through the second switching channel (152) Operation) is repeated alternately.

  Specifically, in the first operation, when compressed air in the air supply chamber (150) is supplied to the first air introduction chamber (145b), the first diaphragm portion (147) is pressed by the compressed air, and the first operation is performed. Displacement to the water pressurization chamber (145a) side. At the same time, the second diaphragm portion (148) is displaced toward the second air introduction chamber (146b). As a result, the volume of the second water pressurizing chamber (146a) is expanded. When the internal pressure of the second water pressurizing chamber (146a) decreases in this way, the second ball valve (143b) is displaced toward the second water pressurizing chamber (146a) and the second branch passage (141b) is opened. Is done. Thereby, the water on the hot water storage tank (30) side flows into the second water pressurizing chamber (146a) through the second branch passage (141b).

  Next, when the second operation is performed and the compressed air in the air supply chamber (150) is supplied to the second air introduction chamber (146b), the second diaphragm portion (148) is pressed by the compressed air, and the second Displacement toward water pressurizing chamber (146a). As a result, the volume of the second water pressurizing chamber (146a) is reduced, and the water in the second water pressurizing chamber (146a) is pressurized. When the pressure in the second water pressurizing chamber (146a) increases, the fourth ball valve (144b) is displaced toward the downstream branch passage (142), and the fourth branch passage (142b) is opened. As a result, the compressed water is supplied to the shower (2) via the downstream branch (142).

  In the second operation, when the first diaphragm portion (147) is displaced toward the first air introduction chamber (145b), the volume of the first water pressurizing chamber (145a) is increased. When the internal pressure of the first water pressurizing chamber (145a) decreases in this way, the first ball valve (143a) is displaced toward the first water pressurizing chamber (145a) and the first branch passage (141a) is opened. Is done. Thereby, the water on the hot water storage tank (30) side flows into the first water pressurizing chamber (145a) through the first branch passage (141a).

  Next, when the first operation is performed again and the compressed air in the air supply chamber (150) is supplied to the first air introduction chamber (145b), the second diaphragm portion (148) is pressed by the compressed air, 1 Displacement to the water pressurizing chamber (145a) side. As a result, the volume of the first water pressurizing chamber (145a) is reduced, and the water in the first water pressurizing chamber (145a) is pressurized. When the pressure in the first water pressurizing chamber (145a) increases, the third ball valve (144a) is displaced toward the downstream branch passage (142), and the third branch passage (142a) is opened. As a result, the compressed water is supplied to the shower (2) via the downstream branch (142).

  In the first operation, when the first diaphragm portion (147) is displaced toward the second air introduction chamber (146b), the volume of the second water pressurizing chamber (146a) is increased. When the internal pressure of the second water pressurizing chamber (146a) decreases in this way, the second ball valve (143b) is displaced toward the second water pressurizing chamber (146a) and the second branch passage (141b) is opened. Is done. Thereby, the water on the hot water storage tank (30) side flows into the second water pressurizing chamber (146a) through the second branch passage (141b).

  As described above, in the pressure unit (70) of the example shown in FIG. 21, the first operation and the second operation are alternately performed. As a result, the water compressed by the pressurizing unit (70) is continuously supplied to the shower (2), and relatively high-pressure discharged water is supplied from the shower (2) to the user or the like.

<< this embodiment >>
<First embodiment having a power generating mechanism>
As shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, the air compression unit (50) may be provided with a reciprocating power generation mechanism (160) (first embodiment ). In this example, a power generation mechanism (160) is added to the air compression unit (50) of the reference embodiment 1 described above. The power generation mechanism (160) includes a permanent magnet (161) and a coil (162). The permanent magnet (161) is attached to the outer peripheral surface of the central portion of the piston rod (66) of the piston member (63). The coil (162) is disposed on the outer peripheral side of the permanent magnet (161). In the power generation mechanism (160), the permanent magnet (161) also reciprocates (displaces) as the piston member (63) reciprocates. An electromotive force is generated in the coil (162) by the reciprocating motion of the permanent magnet (161) to generate power.

  As shown in FIG. 23, the solar panel control unit (112) of this example includes a drive circuit (171) and a switch control unit (178). The drive circuit (171) includes a diode bridge circuit (172), a capacitor (173), and a switching circuit (174).

  The diode bridge circuit (172) is a rectifier circuit in which four diodes (D1 to D4) are connected in a bridge shape. A coil (162) of the power generation mechanism (160) is connected between the input ends of the diode bridge circuit (172). The capacitor (173) is connected between the output terminals of the diode bridge circuit (172) and constitutes a power storage unit. The switching circuit (174) is connected to the output side of the capacitor (173) and includes first and second switches (175, 176) connected in parallel to each other. The switching circuit (174) is electrically connected to the first and second supply / exhaust switching valves (108, 109) of the photovoltaic power generation unit (90). The first supply / exhaust switching valve (108) is connected in series with the first switch (175), and the second supply / exhaust switching valve (109) is connected in series with the second switch (176).

  The switch control unit (178) performs switching (on / off) of the first and second switches (175, 176) based on the detection values of the angle sensor (110) and the solar radiation sensor (111).

  In the solar panel control unit (112), the electric power generated by the power generation mechanism (160) is accumulated in the capacitor (173). When the first and second switches (175, 176) are turned on by the switch control unit (178), the electric power stored in the capacitor (173) is supplied to the respective supply / exhaust switching valves (108, 109). As a result, the supply / exhaust switching valves (108, 109) are driven.

  As described above, in the air compression unit (50), the piston member (63) reciprocates as described above to generate power in the power generation mechanism (160). The power generated by the power generation mechanism (160) in this way is supplied to the drive circuit (171) of the solar panel control unit (112). The electric power supplied to the drive circuit (171) is rectified by the diode bridge circuit (172), then stored in the capacitor (173), and appropriately used for driving the supply / exhaust switching valves (108, 109).

According to the air compression unit (50) of the first embodiment, the power generation mechanism (160) that generates power using the reciprocating motion of the piston member (63) is provided, and therefore a drive source for power generation is provided separately. The generated power can be obtained.

In addition, the solar panel unit (91) of the first embodiment includes a capacitor (173) that stores electric power generated by the power generation mechanism (160) of the air compression unit (50). For this reason, even when a power failure occurs, electric parts such as the supply / exhaust switching valves (108, 109) can be driven. Therefore, a highly reliable solar panel unit (91) can be provided.

<Second embodiment having the power generation mechanism>
As shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, a rotary power generation mechanism (180) may be provided in the air compression unit (50) (second embodiment ). In this example, a power generation mechanism (180) is added to the air compression unit (50) of the reference embodiment 1 described above. The power generation mechanism (180) includes a power transmission unit (181) and a power generation unit (184). The power transmission unit (181) includes first and second rods (182, 183) that are rotatably connected to each other. One end of the first rod (182) is connected to the first piston part (64) of the piston member (63), and one end of the second rod (183) is connected to the power generation part (184).

  As shown in FIG. 25, the power generation unit (184) includes a rotor (185) and a stator (187). The rotor (185) is a cylindrical member disposed on the outer peripheral side of the stator (187), and a plurality of permanent magnets (186) are arranged in the circumferential direction on the inner peripheral surface thereof. In the plurality of permanent magnets (186), S-pole magnets and N-pole magnets are alternately arranged. The stator (187) includes a plurality of stator cores (189) projecting radially, and a coil (188) wound around the stator core (189). One end of the second rod (183) of the power transmission unit (181) is rotatably connected to the rotor (185).

In the power generation mechanism (180) of the second embodiment, the reciprocating motion of the piston member (63) is converted into the rotational motion of the rotor (185) by the power transmission unit (181). When the rotor (185) rotates, the permanent magnet (186) also rotates (displaces) along with it. Thereby, an electromotive force is generated in the coil (188) to generate power. The generated electric power is supplied to the drive circuit (171) of the solar panel control unit (112) and stored in the capacitor (173) as in the first embodiment . Other configurations, operations, and effects are the same as those in the first embodiment .

<Third embodiment having a power generation mechanism>
As shown in FIG. 26, the air compression unit (50) may be provided with an air-driven power generation mechanism (190) (third embodiment ). In this example, a power generation mechanism (190) is added to the hot water supply system (S) of the reference embodiment 1 described above. Moreover, in this example, the configurations of the reference form 1 and the solar panel control unit (112) are different.

In the air compression unit (50) of the third embodiment , power generation is performed using the compressed air discharged from the discharge pipe (19). Specifically, the power generation mechanism (190) includes a windmill (191) and a power generation unit (192). In the power generation mechanism (190), the wind turbine (191) rotates to generate power in the power generation unit (192). The windmill (191) rotates when the compressed air discharged from the air compressor (60) is blown. Specifically, in the hot water supply system (S), as shown in a simplified manner in FIG. 26, an outlet channel (193) is connected to the pressure accumulation tank (41) separately from the air channel (40). The blowing channel (193) is configured such that the compressed air in the pressure accumulating tank (41) is blown out toward the wind turbine (191). The blowout flow path (193) is provided with a solenoid valve (194) as an on-off valve.

The solar panel control unit (220) of the third embodiment has a drive circuit (221) and a switch control unit (228). The drive circuit (221) includes a diode bridge circuit (222), a capacitor (223), a rechargeable battery (224), and a charge / discharge switching circuit (225).

The diode bridge circuit (222) is a rectifier circuit in which four diodes (D1 to D4) are connected in a bridge shape. A power generation section (192) of the power generation mechanism (190) is connected between the input ends of the diode bridge circuit (222). The capacitor (223) is connected between the output terminals of the diode bridge circuit (222), and constitutes a power storage unit. The rechargeable battery (224) is connected to the output side of the capacitor (223). The output side of the rechargeable battery (224) is connected to a load. The term load is the same as the switching circuit (174) of the solar panel controller according to the first embodiment (112). The charge / discharge switching circuit (225) switches between the charging operation and the discharging operation of the rechargeable battery (224), and includes first and second switches (226, 227). The charge / discharge switching circuit (225) is appropriately provided with a diode for preventing current from flowing backward to the capacitor (223) and the rechargeable battery (224) side. The first switch (226) is connected in series with the rechargeable battery (224), and the second switch (227) is connected between the rechargeable battery (224) and the first switch (226) and between the load. ing.

As in the first embodiment , the switch control unit (228) switches (on / off) the first and second switches (226, 227) based on the detection values of the angle sensor (110) and the solar radiation sensor (111). I do. The switch control unit (228) controls the solenoid valve (194) and the charge / discharge switching circuit (225) based on the state of charge of the rechargeable battery (224). For example, when the charge amount of the rechargeable battery (224) is full, the switch control unit (228) closes the solenoid valve (194) and turns off the first switch (226) of the charge / discharge switching circuit (225). And the second switch (227) is turned on. Then, the power of the rechargeable battery (224) is supplied to the load via the second switch (227). The electric power supplied to the load is used to drive the supply / exhaust switching valve (108, 109). When the charge amount of the rechargeable battery (224) decreases, the switch control unit (228) opens the electromagnetic valve (194), turns on the first switch (226) of the charge / discharge switching circuit (225), and 2. Turn off the switch (227). Then, the compressed air is blown out from the blowing channel (193) toward the windmill (191), and the windmill (191) rotates. As a result, the power generation unit (192) generates power. The generated power is rectified by the diode bridge circuit (222) and then stored (charged) in the capacitor (223) and the rechargeable battery (224).

In the third embodiment , since the wind turbine (191) is rotated using the compressed air discharged from the air compressor (60) to generate power, the wind turbine (191), the power generation unit (192), and the solar panel control unit are used. The connection distance with the drive circuit (221) of (220) can be set short. Thereby, the voltage drop which arises when the electric power which the electric power generation part (192) generated is supplied to a drive circuit (221) can be reduced as much as possible. Therefore, even when a power failure occurs, sufficient generated power can be reliably supplied to the supply / exhaust switching valve (108, 109).

<Other configuration with power generation mechanism>
The power generation mechanism of the first to third embodiments described above (160,180,190) may be applied to other reference embodiments described above (Embodiment 2-10). Further, in the power generation mechanisms (160, 180, 190) of the first to third embodiments described above, the generated power is used for driving the supply / exhaust switching valve (108, 109), but the generated power is supplied to the water supply system (S). You may make it utilize for the drive of the other electrically operated valve and other electrical machinery parts which were used.

  As described above, the present invention is useful for an air compression unit, a solar light tracking system including the air compression unit, and a water supply system including the air compression unit.

2 Shower (for use)
3 faucet (use object)
4 Nebulizer (use target)
20 Water channel
21a Inflow channel
21b Outflow channel
30 Hot water storage tank
34 First circulation pump (water pump, driven body)
38 Second circulation pump (water pump, driven body)
40 Air flow path
50 Air compression unit
51 Water channel switching part
52 Air flow path switching part
55 First discharge port (discharge port)
56 Second discharge port (discharge port)
61 Cylinder member
62 Partition
63 Piston member (displacement member)
64 1st piston
65 Second piston part
66 Rod part (piston rod)
70 Pressure unit (driven body)
92 Solar panel (driven body)
93 Solar panel drive mechanism (actuator)
95 Rotation axis
121 First cylinder member
122 Second cylinder member
123 Piston member (displacement member)
124 1st piston
125 2nd piston part
126 Rod part (piston rod)
160 Power generation mechanism
161 Permanent magnet
162 coils
173 Capacitor (power storage unit)
180 Power generation mechanism
186 Permanent magnet (magnet)
188 coils
190 Power generation mechanism
191 windmill
223 Capacitor (power storage unit)
224 Storage battery (power storage unit)
C1 1st cylinder chamber
C2 2nd cylinder chamber
W1 first receiving room
W2 Second receiving room
A1 1st air chamber
A2 Second air chamber

Claims (7)

First and second receiving rooms (W1, W2) into which tap water flows,
First and second air chambers (A1, A2) into which air flows,
Displacement by the water pressure in the first water receiving chamber (W1) to reduce the volume of the first air chamber (A1), and displacement by the water pressure in the second water receiving chamber (W2) to generate second air. A displacement member (63,123) that switches between a second operation for reducing the volume of the chamber (A2);
Each air chamber (A1, A2) each of the air chambers compressed air (A1, A2) 2 single discharge port for discharging to the outside of the (55, 56),
An inflow channel (21a) into which tap water flows in, an outflow channel (21b) from which tap water flows out, and the inflow channel (21a) in communication with the first water receiving chamber (W1) during the first operation. At the same time, a first state in which the second water receiving chamber (W2) communicates with the outflow channel (21b), and the inflow channel (21a) communicates with the second water receiving chamber (W2) during the second operation. At the same time, a water flow path switching unit (51) that switches to a second state in which the first water receiving chamber (W1) communicates with the outflow path (21b);
One cylindrical cylinder member (61);
A partition (62) for partitioning the inside of the cylinder member (61) into a first cylinder chamber (C1) and a second cylinder chamber (C2) adjacent in the axial direction;
The displacement member (63) includes a first piston part (64) that is accommodated in the first cylinder chamber (C1) so as to be freely advanced and retracted, and a second piston that is accommodated in the second cylinder chamber (C2) so as to be freely advanced and retracted. A rod part (66) that connects the first piston part (64) and the second piston part (65) through the part (65) and the partition part (62),
In the first cylinder chamber (C1), the first air chamber (A1) is partitioned on the partition portion (62) side with the first piston portion (64) in between, and is opposite to the partition portion (62). The first water receiving chamber (W1) is partitioned on the side,
In the second cylinder chamber (C2), the second air chamber (A2) is partitioned on the partition part (62) side with the second piston part (65) in between, and is opposite to the partition part (62). The second water receiving chamber (W2) is partitioned on the side,
A power generation mechanism (160,180) having a magnet (161,186) that is displaced in accordance with the axial reciprocation of the piston portion (64,65) and a coil (162,188) that generates electric power by the displacement of the magnet (161,186) is provided. An air compression unit. First and second receiving rooms (W1, W2) into which tap water flows,
First and second air chambers (A1, A2) into which air flows,
Displacement by the water pressure in the first water receiving chamber (W1) to reduce the volume of the first air chamber (A1), and displacement by the water pressure in the second water receiving chamber (W2) to generate second air. A displacement member (63,123) that switches between a second operation for reducing the volume of the chamber (A2);
  Two discharge ports (55,56) for discharging the air compressed in each air chamber (A1, A2) to the outside of each air chamber (A1, A2);
An inflow channel (21a) into which tap water flows in, an outflow channel (21b) from which tap water flows out, and the inflow channel (21a) in communication with the first water receiving chamber (W1) during the first operation. At the same time, a first state in which the second water receiving chamber (W2) communicates with the outflow channel (21b), and the inflow channel (21a) communicates with the second water receiving chamber (W2) during the second operation. At the same time, a water flow path switching unit (51) that switches to a second state in which the first water receiving chamber (W1) communicates with the outflow path (21b);
A cylindrical first cylinder member (121) in which a first cylinder chamber (C1) is formed, and a cylindrical second cylinder member (122) in which a second cylinder chamber (C2) is formed. Prepared,
The displacement member (123) includes a first piston part (124) accommodated in the first cylinder chamber (C1) so as to advance and retreat, and a second piston accommodated in the second cylinder chamber (C2) so as to advance and retract. The first piston part (124) and the second piston part (125) are connected through the part (125) and the shaft side end parts of the first cylinder member (121) and the second cylinder member (122). A rod portion (126) that
The first cylinder chamber (C1) has a first water receiving chamber (W1) defined on one end side in the axial direction across the first piston portion (124), and a second water receiving chamber (C1) on the other end side. W2)
  The second cylinder chamber (C2) has a first air chamber (A1) defined on one end side in the axial direction across the second piston portion (125), and a second air chamber (A2) on the other end side. Is partitioned,
It has a power generation mechanism (160,180) having a magnet (161,186) that is displaced in accordance with the axial reciprocation of the piston portion (124,125) and a coil (162,188) that generates power by the displacement of the magnet (161,186). An air compression unit characterized by. In claim 1 or 2 ,
The air compression unit characterized in that the displacement member (63,123) has an area of the pressure receiving surface facing the water receiving chamber (W1, W2) larger than an area of the pressure increasing surface facing the air chamber (A1, A2). . In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3 ,
An air flow path (40) through which compressed air flows and a discharge port (55) of the first air chamber (A1) during the first operation are communicated with the air flow path (40) and at the same time the second air chamber. Simultaneously with the first state in which the discharge port (56) of (A2) is closed and the discharge port (56) of the second air chamber (A2) in communication with the air flow path (40) during the second operation. An air compression unit comprising an air flow path switching unit (52) for closing the discharge port (55) of the first air chamber (A1). In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 4 ,
It has a windmill (191) that is rotated by the air compressed and discharged in the air chamber (A1, A2), and has a power generation mechanism (190) that generates electricity by the rotation of the windmill (191). Air compression unit to do. A solar panel (92) provided with a rotating shaft (95);
An air compression unit (50) according to any one of the preceding claims,
An actuator (93) that is operated by the compressed air of the air compression unit (50) and rotates the solar panel (92) around the axis of the rotation axis (95) according to the direction of the sun;
A solar light tracking system comprising: a power storage unit (173, 223, 224) that stores power generated by the power generation mechanism (160, 180, 190) of the air compression unit (50). A water supply system having a water flow path (20) for supplying tap water to a predetermined target (2,3,4),
An air compression unit (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 6 is connected to the water flow path (20),
The inflow path (21a) of the air compression unit (50) is connected to the water source side of the tap water, and the outflow path (21b) of the air compression unit (50) is connected to the use target (2,3,4). A water supply system characterized by that.

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