JP5146727B2 - Combustion equipment - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention is characterized by a water seal device capable of blocking the passage of combustion gas by storing drain and water, and relates to a combustion device provided with the water seal device.

  Conventionally, there has been provided a hot water supply apparatus incorporating a so-called latent heat recovery type combustion apparatus as disclosed in Patent Document 1 below. In this type of hot water supply device, heat exchange means is provided in the middle of the combustion gas passage through which the combustion gas passes, and not only sensible heat contained in the combustion gas but also latent heat can be recovered in the heat exchange means. It is configured. Therefore, in the latent heat recovery type combustion apparatus, drain is generated in the combustion gas passage along with the combustion operation.

Since the drain generated in the latent heat recovery type combustion apparatus is exposed to the combustion gas, it has high acidity and is corrosive. For this reason, many of the conventional latent heat recovery type combustion apparatuses are provided with a drain discharge system for discharging the drain so as to communicate with the combustion gas passage, and for neutralizing the drain in the middle of the drain discharge system. A sum device is provided to prevent drain from being discharged as it is.
JP 2003-74974 A

  The conventional combustion apparatus described above is configured to have a drain discharge system so as to communicate with the combustion gas passage. Therefore, there is a concern that not only the drain but also the combustion gas may be discharged through the drain discharge system.

  Here, when the combustion apparatus is installed outdoors, it is assumed that there is no major inconvenience even if the combustion gas is discharged to the outside through the drain discharge system. However, when the combustion apparatus is an indoor installation type, there is a problem that a problem that combustion gas is discharged through the drain discharge system must be surely prevented.

  Therefore, the present inventors have a storage container including a first tank located on the drain inflow side and a second tank communicating with the first tank, and by storing liquid such as water and drain in the storage container, A latent heat recovery type combustion device that employs a water sealing device that can block the passage of combustion gas in a sealed state was made as a prototype. In this latent heat recovery type combustion device, in the unlikely event that water supply failure to the storage container or leakage of the storage container occurs, the storage container cannot be put into a water-sealed state, which is unexpected by the user. Combustion gas may be discharged from the location. In addition, in the above-described latent heat recovery type combustion apparatus, when a problem such as fuel leakage occurs, it is necessary to prohibit the combustion operation from the viewpoint of safety or the like.

Here, in the case where the storage container cannot be in a water-sealed state due to the above-described poor water supply or water leakage of the storage container, it is necessary for the water level in the storage container to be in a water-sealed state. It is assumed that the water level (hereinafter also referred to as the water seal water level) is not reached. Therefore, the present inventors have provided a minimum water level detection electrode for detecting whether or not a minimum amount of water exists in the storage container, and can detect whether or not the water level has reached the water seal water level We considered that.
That is, if the current is passed between the above-mentioned minimum water level detection electrode and another electrode, and there is a continuity between the two, the minimum water level detection electrode is in contact with water, and water reaches the tip of the minimum water level detection electrode. It is judged that there is. On the other hand, if there is no conduction between the lowest water level detection electrode and another electrode, the lowest water level detection electrode is separated from the water, and the water level does not reach the water seal level.

  However, when the present inventors examined the possibility of a failure or an accident that may occur in the future, when this configuration was used for a long period of time, it was considered that there was a concern that the electrode for detecting the lowest water level would fail.

That is, the lowest water level detection electrode is always in contact with drain water due to its nature. For this reason, when the lowest water level detection electrode is energized, the drain water is ionized slightly, and the ions are attracted to the lowest water level detection electrode or the electrically opposed electrode and adhere to the lowest water level detection electrode or the like. Further, since the drain water contains many impurities, the impurities are attracted to the lowest water level detection electrode and adhere to the lowest water level detection electrode. For this reason, when the latent heat recovery type combustion apparatus is used for a long period of time, a film is formed around the minimum water level detection electrode, and the film becomes a resistance and the water level detection accuracy of the minimum water level detection electrode is lowered.
The failure of the minimum water level detection electrode is a concern that may occur when the latent heat recovery type combustion device is used under extremely severe conditions and used for a long time, but it is denied as a possibility. It is not possible, and some measures should be taken.

  The present invention provides a countermeasure for wiping out the above-mentioned concerns, and an object of the present invention is to provide a latent heat recovery type combustion apparatus that can prevent deterioration of the water level detection electrode in the water seal device and can withstand long-term use. It was.

The invention according to claim 1, which is provided to solve the above-described problem, is a combustion apparatus having a drain discharge system for discharging drain generated in accordance with a combustion operation, wherein the drain discharge system includes a water seal. In the combustion apparatus provided with the device, the water seal device includes a storage container capable of storing drain, and has a water level detection electrode for detecting the water level in the storage container, and the water level detection electrode is a part or all of it. Is in a normal state where it is in contact with water, and the presence of water is detected by energization, and it has an intermittent energization operation mode in which energization of the water level detection electrode is performed intermittently , and power is supplied In addition, there are an on-mode state in which combustion can be started immediately in response to a combustion request, and an off-mode state in which combustion is not started even when there is a combustion request even when power is supplied. Period until the combustion is initiated a mode state is a combustion device, characterized in that it is operated by the intermittent energization mode of operation.

  In the combustion apparatus of the present invention, the water level detection electrode is in a normal state that part or all of the water level detection electrode is in contact with water, and detects the presence of water by energization. Energization is performed intermittently. Therefore, even if the combustion apparatus is used for a long time, the total energization time for the water level detection electrode is short, and a film is not easily formed on the surface.

The invention according to claim 2 is a combustion means, a combustion gas passage through which combustion gas generated in accordance with the combustion operation in the combustion means flows, a heat exchange means for exchanging heat with the combustion gas flowing through the combustion gas passage, A combustion apparatus having a drain discharge system for discharging drain generated by a combustion operation, wherein the water seal apparatus can store drain in the combustion apparatus in which a water seal device is provided in the drain discharge system. A storage container in which a drain or water is stored up to a water level equal to or higher than a predetermined minimum water level. The minimum water level detection electrode is provided, and the minimum water level detection electrode detects the presence of water by energization, and the energization to the minimum water level detection electrode is intermittent. Intermittent energization with the operation mode, the on-mode state in which power can immediately initiate combustion in accordance with and combustion request a state of being supplied, a combustion request spite of the state where power is supplied to perform However, the combustion apparatus is characterized in that there is an off-mode state in which combustion is not started, and the operation is performed in the intermittent energization operation mode during the on-mode state until combustion is started .

  Also in the combustion apparatus of the present invention, the lowest water level detection electrode is often in contact with water, but energization of the lowest water level detection electrode is performed intermittently. Therefore, even if the combustion apparatus is used for a long period of time, the total energization time for the minimum water level detection electrode is short, and a film is hardly formed on the surface.

Further, in the combustion apparatus of the present invention, the period of time until the combustion is started in the on-mode state is operated in the intermittent energization operation mode, so that the energization time for the electrode is short and a film is not easily formed on the electrode surface.

  The invention according to claim 3 has an appropriate water level detection electrode capable of detecting an appropriate water level with respect to the storage container, and the appropriate water level detection electrode detects the presence of water by energization. The combustion apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an intermittent energization operation mode in which energization to the detection electrode is intermittently performed.

  The combustion apparatus of the present invention includes an appropriate water level detection electrode capable of detecting an appropriate water level with respect to the storage container. The appropriate water level detection electrode is used for, for example, an application for detecting a water level when water is poured into a storage container. Although there are many opportunities for the proper water level detection electrode to come into contact with water, in the present invention, the proper water level detection electrode is energized intermittently. Therefore, even if the combustion apparatus is used for a long period of time, the total energization time for the appropriate water level detection electrode is short, and a film is not easily formed on the surface.

  The invention described in claim 4 has a dangerous water level detection electrode capable of detecting a dangerous water level with respect to the storage container, and the dangerous water level detection electrode detects the presence of water by energization. A combustion apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

  In the combustion apparatus of the present invention, since the dangerous water level detection electrode capable of detecting the dangerous water level with respect to the storage container is provided, it is possible to prevent a situation where drainage overflows from the storage container when the storage container or its downstream side is clogged. be able to.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention , there is provided a combustion apparatus having a drain discharge system for discharging drain generated in accordance with a combustion operation, wherein a water seal device is provided in the drain discharge system. The sealing device includes a storage container capable of storing drainage, and has a water level detection electrode for detecting the water level in the storage container, and the water level detection electrode is normally in contact with water partially or entirely. It is intended to detect the presence of water by energizing, and has an intermittent energization operation mode in which energization is intermittently applied to the water level detection electrode, and drain or water is stored in the storage container up to a predetermined water level or higher. In this state, a water-sealed state that can prevent the passage of combustion gas is provided, and a minimum water level detection electrode capable of detecting the minimum water level is provided to detect an appropriate water level for the storage container. ON, which has a functioning appropriate water level detection electrode and a dangerous water level detection electrode capable of detecting a dangerous water level with respect to the storage container, and is capable of immediately starting combustion in response to a combustion request when power is supplied. There is a mode state and an off-mode state where combustion is not started even if there is a combustion request even though power is supplied, and for the minimum water level detection immediately after changing from the off-mode state to the on-mode state The electrode is operated in the test energization mode in which the electrode, the appropriate water level detection electrode, and the dangerous water level detection electrode are energized simultaneously or sequentially. A combustion apparatus wherein a water level detection electrode is operated in an intermittent energization operation mode .

The invention according to claim 6 is a combustion means, a combustion gas passage through which the combustion gas generated by the combustion operation in the combustion means flows, a heat exchange means for exchanging heat with the combustion gas flowing through the combustion gas passage, A combustion apparatus having a drain discharge system for discharging drain generated by a combustion operation, wherein the water seal apparatus can store drain in the combustion apparatus in which a water seal device is provided in the drain discharge system. A storage container in which a drain or water is stored up to a water level equal to or higher than a predetermined minimum water level. The minimum water level detection electrode is provided, and the minimum water level detection electrode detects the presence of water by energization, and the energization to the minimum water level detection electrode is intermittent. It has an intermittent energization operation mode to perform, has an appropriate water level detection electrode that can detect the appropriate water level for the storage container, and a dangerous water level detection electrode that can detect the dangerous water level for the storage container, and is supplied with power There is an on-mode state in which combustion can be started immediately in response to a combustion request, and an off-mode state in which combustion is not started even when there is a combustion request in spite of power being supplied. Immediately after changing to the on-mode state, it is operated in the inspection energization mode in which the minimum water level detection electrode, the appropriate water level detection electrode, and the dangerous water level detection electrode are energized simultaneously or sequentially, and then combustion starts. in the period until the combustion apparatus characterized by minimum water level detection electrode and proper water level detecting electrode is operated by the intermittent energization mode of operation A.

In the inventions according to claims 5 and 6 , in the off mode state, the energization time (energization time per unit time) for the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode is compared with that in the on mode state. It is desirable to shorten it. That is, it is desirable that the energization pattern in the off mode state has a longer energization interval between the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode than the energization pattern in the on mode state.
Further, it is desirable that the energization time in the off mode state (continuous energization time per time) is shorter than that in the on mode state.
In the off mode state, there is an option of not energizing the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode.
On the other hand, during combustion, it is desirable to lengthen the energization time (energization time per unit time) for the lowest water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode as compared to the on-mode state. That is, it is desirable that the energization pattern during combustion has a shorter energization interval between the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode than the energization pattern in the on-mode state. Moreover, it is desirable that the energization time during combustion (continuous energization time per time) is longer than that in the on-mode state.
During combustion, there is an option of always energizing the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode.

In the combustion apparatus of the present invention, there is an on-mode state in which power is supplied and combustion can be started immediately in response to the combustion request, and there is a combustion request in spite of power being supplied. There is an off mode state in which combustion does not start. The on-mode state is a state in which combustion can be started immediately. On the other hand, in order to start combustion in the off-mode state, it is necessary to temporarily change to the on-mode state. Therefore, the off mode state has a time margin before the start of combustion as compared with the on mode state.
In addition, when the off mode state is switched to the on mode state, there are many cases where there is a combustion request within a short time thereafter. Therefore, in the present invention, immediately after the change from the off mode state to the on mode state, the lowest water level detection electrode, the appropriate water level detection electrode, and the dangerous water level detection electrode are operated in the inspection energization mode in which they are energized simultaneously or sequentially. It was decided. This operation is a test for the electrode, and is an action performed to determine a failure of the electrode itself.
Furthermore, when combustion is actually performed, it is necessary to monitor the water level more strictly than in the off-mode state, so in the period until the combustion is started in the on-mode state. The configuration in which the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode operate in the intermittent energization operation mode is adopted.
Also in the combustion apparatus of the present invention, the period until the combustion is started in the on-mode state is operated in the intermittent energization operation mode, so that the energization time for the electrode is short and a film is not easily formed on the surface of the electrode.

The invention according to claim 7 has a water injection means capable of replenishing water to the storage container, and when any water level detection electrode does not detect the water level when operated in the inspection energization mode, the water injection means The storage container is refilled with water until both the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode detect the water level, and then the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level are used until the combustion starts. The combustion apparatus according to claim 5 or 6 , wherein the detection electrode is operated in an intermittent energization operation mode.

Also in the combustion apparatus of the present invention, the period until the combustion is started in the on-mode state is operated in the intermittent energization operation mode, so that the energization time for the electrode is short and a film is not easily formed on the surface of the electrode.
In the present invention, immediately after the change from the off-mode state to the on-mode state, the lowest water level detection electrode, the appropriate water level detection electrode, and the dangerous water level detection electrode are energized simultaneously or sequentially. In the present invention, it is determined whether or not there is water necessary for the storage container. That is, in the present invention, when none of the water level detection electrodes detects the water level, the water supply means replenishes the storage container with water until both the lowest water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode detect the water level. “Replenish water to the storage container until both the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode detect the water level” means that the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode In practice, in many cases, water is injected slightly more than the detection position of the appropriate water level detection electrode.

The invention described in claim 8 has water injection means capable of replenishing water to the storage container, and when operated in the inspection energization mode, the minimum water level detection electrode detects the water level, and the appropriate water level detection electrode If the water level does not detect the water level, the water injection means replenishes the storage container with water until both the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode detect the water level, and then burns. 8. The combustion apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode are operated in an intermittent energization operation mode during a period until the start of the combustion. .

Also in the combustion apparatus of the present invention, the period until the combustion is started in the on-mode state is operated in the intermittent energization operation mode, so that the energization time for the electrode is short and a film is not easily formed on the surface of the electrode.
Also in the present invention, immediately after changing from the off mode state to the on mode state, the lowest water level detection electrode, the appropriate water level detection electrode, and the dangerous water level detection electrode are energized simultaneously or sequentially. In the present invention, it is determined whether or not there is water necessary for the storage container. That is, according to the present invention, when the appropriate water level detection electrode and the dangerous water level detection electrode do not detect the water level, the water injection means keeps the water container until both the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode detect the water level. Top up with water.

The invention according to claim 9 is a water-sealed state capable of preventing the passage of combustion gas by making drain or water stored in a storage container up to a predetermined water level or higher. The minimum water level detection electrode capable of detecting the minimum water level is provided, and has an appropriate water level detection electrode capable of detecting an appropriate water level for the storage container, and a dangerous water level detection electrode capable of detecting the dangerous water level for the storage container. When the combustion device is in the off-mode state, the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode are operated in the intermittent energization operation mode, or the energization to the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode is stopped. A combustion apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein

  According to the present invention, the energization time for the electrode in the off-mode state is short, and a film is hardly formed on the surface of the electrode.

  The invention according to claim 10 is the combustion apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that in the intermittent energization operation mode, the time during which the energization is stopped is longer than the energization time. is there.

  According to the present invention, the energization time for the electrode is further shortened, and a film is hardly formed on the surface of the electrode.

  However, it is desirable that the dangerous water level detection electrode is in a state where the energization time is longer than the pause time even in the on-mode state. (Claim 11).

  The reason for this is that the dangerous water level detection electrode has few opportunities to come into contact with water, and therefore, even if it is energized, the surface of the electrode is not adversely affected.

The invention according to claim 12 is a water-sealed state capable of preventing the passage of combustion gas by making drain or water stored in a storage container up to a water level above a predetermined minimum water level. The minimum water level detection electrode capable of detecting the minimum water level is provided, and has an appropriate water level detection electrode capable of detecting an appropriate water level for the storage container, and a dangerous water level detection electrode capable of detecting the dangerous water level for the storage container. When the appropriate water level detection electrode or the dangerous water level detection electrode detects the presence of the water level and the lowest water level detection electrode does not detect the presence of the water level, and the dangerous water level detection electrode detects the presence of the water level and the lowest water level is the combustion apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11 sensing electrode or proper water level sensing electrode, characterized in that it comprises determining electrode test function whether there may not detect the presence of water

  The present invention shows an example of a test for an electrode. When there is a minimum water level detection electrode, an appropriate water level detection electrode, and a dangerous water level detection electrode, the lowest water level detection electrode detects the lowest water level, and the appropriate water level detection electrode is above it, the dangerous water level detection electrode. Also detects the water level above it. Therefore, when the appropriate water level detection electrode or the dangerous water level detection electrode detects the presence of the water level and the lowest water level detection electrode does not detect the presence of the water level, the dangerous water level detection electrode detects the presence of the water level and the lowest water level. If the detection electrode or the appropriate water level detection electrode does not detect the presence of the water level, the upper electrode is detecting the water level even though the lower electrode is not detecting the water level. It is an electrode or other failure. The present invention has a function of detecting a failure in this way.

  A thirteenth aspect of the present invention is the combustion apparatus according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, wherein the storage container has a function of neutralizing the drain.

  In the present invention, since the storage container has a function of neutralizing the drain, acidic drain is not discharged and the environment is not adversely affected.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the electrode which detects a water level becomes long life, and can provide a combustion apparatus with few failures.

  Next, a latent heat recovery combustion device (hereinafter referred to as combustion device 1) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the vertical / horizontal positional relationship will be described based on a normal installation state unless otherwise specified.

FIG. 1 is an apparatus configuration diagram of a combustion apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an operation principle diagram of the combustion apparatus shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the combustion device 1 is specifically a water heater, and includes a combustion unit 2 (combustion means), a primary heat exchanger 20, and a secondary heat exchanger 25. This is a so-called latent heat recovery type water heater. The combustion apparatus 1 includes a combustion case 3 and an exhaust collecting unit 5 below the combustion unit 2. As a result, a space is formed in the combustion apparatus 1 so as to have a substantially “U” -shaped cross section from the combustion case 3 to the muffler 6 described later through the exhaust collecting portion 5. A silencer 6 is provided on the side of the combustion unit 2, and a neutralizer 7 is provided below the combustion case 3. The combustion case 3 and the silencer 6 communicate with an exhaust collecting part 5 provided on the bottom side of the combustion device 1.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the combustion unit 2 includes an air case 8, a fuel spray nozzle 10, a blower 11, a combustion cylinder 12, and the like. The combustion part 2 is comprised by what is called a reverse combustion type combustion apparatus, and can form a flame toward the downward direction. Specifically, the combustion unit 2 introduces combustion air into the air case 8 by operating the blower 11 and lowers the liquid fuel supplied from a fuel supply source (not shown) from the fuel spray nozzle 10. It is set as the structure which can be sprayed towards and combusted in the combustion cylinder 12. FIG.

  The combustion case 3 is located on the lower side with respect to the combustion unit 2 and is a portion through which high-temperature combustion gas generated in accordance with the combustion operation in the combustion unit 2 flows. The combustion case 3 forms a series of combustion gas passages 4 in combination with the exhaust collecting part 5 and the muffler part 6. A primary heat exchanger 20 and a secondary heat exchanger 25 are provided inside the combustion case 3. As shown in FIG. 2, in the present embodiment, the primary heat exchanger 20 and the secondary heat exchanger 25 are integrated to form the heat exchange means 9. The combustion gas flowing through the combustion section 2 is first configured to flow to the secondary heat exchanger 25 side after heat exchange in the primary heat exchanger 20.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the heat exchanging means 9 is provided with a water intake header 9a and a hot water outlet header 9b. The water inlet header 9a is provided with a water inlet 25a of the secondary heat exchanger 25, and the water outlet header 9b is provided with a water outlet 20a of the primary heat exchanger 20. As will be described in detail later, a hot water supply pipe 28 connected to a heat load (calan 28a in the present embodiment) serving as a hot water supply destination such as a currant or a bathtub is connected to the water outlet 20a. In addition, a water inlet pipe 26 (water supply pipe) for supplying hot water to be heated from the outside is connected to the water inlet 25a. Therefore, when there is a hot water supply request (combustion request) at the hot water supply destination (curan 28a) and hot water is supplied from an external water supply source via the water inlet pipe 26, the hot water is supplied to the water inlet 25a of the secondary heat exchanger 25. Supplied. The hot water supplied to the water inlet 25a flows through the secondary heat exchanger 25 and then flows through the primary heat exchanger 20 to be sequentially heat-exchanged and heated, and then from the water outlet 20a of the primary heat exchanger 20 to the hot water supply pipe. It is supplied toward the hot water supply destination via 28.

  The exhaust collecting portion 5 is a portion that is disposed below the combustion case 3 and communicates directly with the combustion case 3. The exhaust collecting portion 5 has an internal space that extends in the width direction of the combustion device 1 (left-right direction in FIG. 1) on the bottom side of the combustion device 1. Further, the exhaust collecting part 5 communicates with a muffler part 6 arranged on the side of the combustion case 3. Therefore, the exhaust collecting portion 5 functions as a portion that allows the combustion gas that flows downward in the combustion case 3 to flow in and flows out toward the silencer 6. In other words, the exhaust collecting portion 5 functions as a portion for turning upward the flow direction of the combustion gas flowing downward.

  A drain discharge port 27 is provided at the bottom of the exhaust collecting portion 5. The drain discharge port 27 functions as a discharge port for discharging the drain falling from the secondary heat exchanger 25 side to the outside of the exhaust collecting portion 5.

  A neutralizing device 7 is disposed below the exhaust collecting portion 5, accepts drain discharged from the drain discharge port 27, neutralizes it, and discharges it. That is, the neutralization device 7 has a function as a drain discharge system for discharging the drain generated in the combustion device 1 and a function as a neutralizer for neutralizing the drain. In addition to this, the neutralization device 7 also has a function as a water seal device that prevents passage of combustion gas.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the neutralization device 7 includes a storage container 30 that can store drainage, and a water injection means 40 that can replenish hot water from the outside of the storage container 30. The storage container 30 is roughly classified into two tanks, and communicates so that drains and hot water can pass back and forth. Specifically, the storage container 30 has an inflow tank 31 (first tank) and a discharge tank 32 (second tank), and the both are separated by a partition wall 33. In addition, a discharge portion 34 is provided at a position adjacent to the discharge tank 32, and both communicate with each other at a position above the discharge tank 32.

  The inflow tank 31 is a tank located on the inflow side of the drain flowing from the exhaust collecting portion 5 side, that is, on the upstream side in the drain flow direction. In the present embodiment, the inflow tank 31 is connected to the drain outlet 27 of the exhaust collecting portion 5. The discharge tank 32 is an inflow tank 31 when assuming the flow of drain discharged from the discharge side of the drain flowing into the storage container 30, that is, from the exhaust collecting portion 5 through the neutralization device 7 constituting the drain discharge system. Is a tank existing downstream in the drain flow direction. In the present embodiment, the discharge tank 32 is provided at a position adjacent to the inflow tank 31.

  A partition wall 33 disposed between the inflow tank 31 and the discharge tank 32 extends from above the storage container 30 downward. In a state in which a liquid such as drain or hot water is stored in the storage container 30, the partition wall 33 isolates both water surfaces between the inflow tank 31 and the discharge tank 32. On the other hand, the storage container 30 is in a state where the inflow tank 31 and the discharge tank 32 communicate with each other at a position below the partition wall 33 (hereinafter also referred to as a communication part 35). That is, the partition wall 33 does not reach the bottom surface 30a of the storage container 30, and between the lower end portion of the partition wall 33 and the bottom surface 30a, drain and hot water flow between the inflow tank 31 and the discharge tank 32. There is nothing to stop.

The inflow tank 31 is provided with a ground electrode 36 and three water level detection electrodes 37 (hereinafter referred to as 37a, 37b, and 37c, respectively) for detecting the water level.
Here, the water level detection electrode 37a functions as a minimum water level detection electrode. The water level detection electrode 37b functions as an appropriate water level detection electrode, and the water level detection electrode 37c functions as a dangerous water level detection electrode.

  The ground electrode 36 and the water level detection electrodes 37 a to 37 c are electrically connected to a control means 50 provided for controlling the operation of the combustion apparatus 1.

  The ground electrode 36 and the lowest water level detection electrode 37 a are substantially suspended from the top surface 30 b side of the storage container 30 toward the bottom surface 30 a side in the inflow tank 31. Further, the ground electrode 36 and the lowest water level detection electrode 37 a reach the position corresponding to the lower end portion of the partition wall 33, in other words, the upper end portion of the communicating portion 35. When it is detected that there is continuity between the ground electrode 36 and the lowest water level detection electrode 37a, the liquid level in the inflow tank 31 is at least at the lower end of the lowest water level detection electrode 37a, that is, the upper end portion of the communication portion 35. It exists in the position more than a corresponding position, and the communication part 35 is the state sealed by drain or hot water (this state is hereafter called a water seal state).

  The appropriate water level detection electrode 37b is substantially parallel to the lowest water level detection electrode 37a, and is an electrode attached so as to substantially hang downward from the top surface 30b side in the inflow tank 31 of the storage container 30. The lower end portion of the proper water level detection electrode 37b is higher than the lower end portion of the lowest water level detection electrode 37a (the position on the top surface 30b side), that is, the liquid level rises when drainage or the like flows into the storage container 30. Exists in the side position.

  The attachment position of the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b is a range that is assumed on the liquid level in the inflow tank 31 due to the influence of the combustion gas generated in the combustion gas passage 4 in the combustion part 2 and the outside air that has flowed back through the noise reduction part 6. It is attached at a position where it can be detected whether or not a sufficient amount of drainage or the like is maintained to maintain a water-sealed state even under conditions where the maximum pressure is applied and the liquid level in the inflow tank 31 is lowered. ing. More specifically, when the combustion unit 2 burns at the maximum combustion amount, the generation amount of the combustion gas reaches the maximum. Since the inflow tank 31 communicates with the combustion gas passage 4 through which the combustion gas flows, a pressure corresponding to the flow amount of the combustion gas acts on the liquid level in the inflow tank 31 as the combustion gas flows. . Therefore, when the combustion part 2 burns with the maximum combustion amount, it is assumed that the liquid level fall amount in the inflow tank 31 resulting from the flow of combustion gas reaches the maximum.

  In addition, when the combustion apparatus 1 is exposed to strong wind, the outside air may flow back through the silencer 6. In this case, the external air that has flowed into the inflow tank 31 through the exhaust collecting portion 5 and the drain discharge port 27 causes pressure to act downward on the water surface on the inflow tank 31 side, and the liquid level decreases. When the wind speed of the reverse wind acting on the combustion apparatus 1 is so high that it is not suitable for performing the combustion operation, it is assumed that the water level in the inflow tank 31 is also greatly reduced by that amount.

  Therefore, assuming these situations, the combustion unit 2 performed the combustion operation with the maximum amount of combustion in the situation where the combustion device 1 was exposed to the maximum amount of headwind as long as the combustion operation may be performed in the combustion unit 2. In order to maintain a water-sealed state even when pressure is applied to the liquid level in the inflow tank 31 and the liquid level is lowered in the inflow tank 31, a drain or the like that should be stored in the storage container 30 during combustion standby Water level (hereinafter also referred to as a water injection reference water level Lc) is determined. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b is attached at a position where it can be detected whether or not the water level of the drain or the like in the storage container 30 has reached the water injection reference water level Lc.

  Like the water level detection electrodes 37a and 37b described above, the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c is attached so as to hang substantially downward from the top surface 30b side of the storage container 30. The dangerous water level detection electrode 37c is provided to detect whether or not the storage container 30 is in a full water state, that is, whether or not there is a possibility of drain overflow in the storage container 30 from other than the discharge port 34a. The lower end portion is at a position (position on the top surface 30b side) higher than the above-described minimum water level detection electrodes 37a and 37b.

  The discharge tank 32 has a larger volume than the inflow tank 31 described above. The storage container 30 has a drain port 38 on the bottom surface on the discharge tank 32 side. Further, as shown in FIG. 1, two partitions 32 a and 32 b are provided in the drain tank 32. The space in the discharge tank 32 is divided by the partitions 32a and 32b into three spaces including a space on the inflow tank 31 side, a space on the discharge unit 34 side, and a space in between the two spaces.

  The partitions 32 a and 32 b are provided so as to extend in the vertical direction in the discharge tank 32, and do not exist between the lower end portion and the bottom surface 30 a of the storage container 30. Therefore, the three spaces formed by dividing the space in the discharge tank 32 by the partitions 32a and 32b are in communication with each other. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 1, the upper end portions of the partitions 32 a and 32 b protrude slightly upward from the lower end portion of the discharge port 39 that communicates the discharge tank 32 and the discharge portion 34. That is, the upper ends of the partitions 32a and 32b are in positions that protrude slightly upward from the liquid surface position when liquid such as drain or hot water overflows from the discharge tank 32 side to the discharge portion 34 side.

  The discharge part 34 is a part attached to the side of the discharge tank 32, and is discharged through a discharge port 39 provided at a position unevenly distributed on the upper end side of the discharge tank 32, that is, on the top surface 30 b side of the storage container 30. 32. A discharge port 34 a for discharging drain or the like overflowing from the discharge tank 32 through the discharge port 39 is provided at the lower portion of the discharge unit 34.

  As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the water injection means 40 is configured to include a water injection pipe 41 and an electromagnetic valve 42. The water injection pipe 41 is a pipe branched in the middle of the water inlet pipe 26 connected to the water inlet 25 a of the secondary heat exchanger 25 described above, and supplies hot water supplied from the outside toward the storage container 30. can do. The water injection pipe 41 is connected to the top surface 30b on the discharge tank 32 side of the storage container 30, and has a structure capable of pouring water on the discharge tank 32 side. The electromagnetic valve 42 is provided in the middle of the water injection pipe 41.

  A neutralizing agent C for neutralizing the drain is accommodated in the storage container 30 described above. As shown in FIG. 1, in this embodiment, the neutralizing agent C is accommodated in the entire discharge tank 32.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the silencer 6 has a cylindrical space 6 b that is surrounded in all directions and communicated in the vertical direction. The space 6b in the silencer 6 communicates with the exhaust collecting part 5 on the lower end side. The silencer 6 has a space 6b communicating with the external atmosphere via a chimney (not shown).

As described above, the water exchange pipe 26 and the hot water supply pipe 28 are connected to the heat exchanging means 9. As shown in FIG. 2, a bypass channel 48 is connected to the water intake pipe 26 in addition to the water injection pipe 41 described above. The bypass channel 48 is a channel that bypasses between the water inlet pipe 26 and the hot water supply pipe 28. One end side of the bypass channel 48 is upstream in the flowing direction of the hot water in the incoming water pipe 26 with respect to the water amount sensor 47 a and the temperature sensor 47 b provided in the middle of the incoming water pipe 26, and from the connection position with the water injection pipe 41. It is connected to a position off the downstream side of the hot water flow direction. On the other hand, the other end side of the bypass flow path 48 is connected to a position away from the hot water supply amount adjustment valve 49a provided in the middle of the hot water supply pipe 28 and the temperature sensor 49b on the downstream side in the hot water flow direction. Further, a bypass water amount sensor 48a and a bypass water amount adjustment valve 48b are provided in the middle of the bypass flow passage 48. By adjusting the opening degree of the bypass water amount adjustment valve 48b, the water intake pipe 26 side is changed to the hot water supply pipe 28 side. The flow rate of flowing hot water can be adjusted.
In the present embodiment, the amount of water flowing through the bypass passage 48 is adjusted by the bypass water amount adjustment valve 48b, and the ratio of the high-temperature water passing through the heat exchange means 9 and the water supplied from the bypass passage 48 is adjusted. Hot water of temperature is discharged.

As shown in FIG. 2, the combustion apparatus 1 has a remote controller 60. The remote controller 60 is electrically connected to the control means 50. The remote controller 60 is provided with an operation switch 65 (heating operation switch), a display means 66 (notification means) for displaying the operation status and the like, a speaker 67 (notification means) and the like. When an abnormality occurs in the combustion apparatus 1, a warning is given by screen display and sound.
The combustion apparatus 1 can perform a combustion operation on the condition that the operation switch 65 is turned on. That is, the combustion apparatus 1 is connected to a commercial power source and the like, and is in a state in which power is supplied and is in an on-mode state in which combustion can be started immediately in response to a combustion request and a state in which power is supplied. There is an off mode state in which combustion is not started even if there is a combustion request, and the operation switch 65 switches between the on mode and the off mode.
However, in order to actually enable the combustion operation, it is necessary to satisfy other conditions. In this embodiment, the combustion apparatus 1 has the operation switch 65 turned on and the storage container 30 is in a water-sealed state. And the combustion section 2 is in a state in which the combustion operation can be performed on condition that there is a combustion request described later.
Since the combustion operation is executed on condition that the combustion apparatus 1 is in the on mode, the combustion operation is precisely the combustion operation in the on mode state.

  Subsequently, the operation of the combustion apparatus 1 will be described. Although the combustion apparatus 1 is characterized by the energization pattern to the water level detection electrode 37, in the following description, first, general operations of the combustion apparatus 1 will be described, and then operations unique to the combustion apparatus 1 will be described. .

  When water is supplied from the external water supply source to the combustion apparatus 1 with the opening of the curan 28a, the water amount sensor 47a provided in the middle of the water inlet pipe 26 and downstream of the water injection pipe 41. A flow rate detection signal is transmitted from. When receiving a flow rate detection signal indicating that a predetermined amount or more of hot water has flowed from the water amount sensor 47a, the control means 50 determines that there has been a hot water supply request (combustion request) and starts the combustion operation in the combustion section 2. Combustion gas generated in the combustion cylinder 12 along with the combustion operation in the combustion unit 2 flows downward in the combustion case 3. Thereafter, the combustion gas flows into the exhaust collecting portion 5 provided on the bottom side of the combustion apparatus 1.

  The combustion gas that has flowed into the exhaust collecting portion 5 flows in the exhaust collecting portion 5 in the horizontal direction, that is, toward the side connected to the silencer 6 (rightward in FIG. 1). Thereafter, the combustion gas flows toward the silencer 6 connected above the exhaust collecting part 5. That is, the combustion gas generated in the combustion section 2 and flowing downward in the combustion case 3 changes its flow direction in the exhaust collecting section 5 and flows upward in the muffler section 6 before being connected. It is discharged outside through the chimney.

  On the other hand, hot water supplied from the outside via the water inlet pipe 26 flows into the secondary heat exchanger 25 via the water inlet 25 a of the secondary heat exchanger 25. The hot water flowing into the secondary heat exchanger 25 mainly recovers the latent heat contained in the combustion gas and is heated by this. Along with this, moisture contained in the combustion gas is aggregated and drainage is generated on the surface of the secondary heat exchanger 25 and the like.

  Hot water heated by the secondary heat exchanger 25 exits the water outlet (not shown) of the secondary heat exchanger 25 and enters the primary heat exchanger 20 from the water inlet (not shown) of the primary heat exchanger 20. Flow into. The hot water flowing into the primary heat exchanger 20 is heated by heat exchange with the combustion gas generated along with the combustion of fuel in the combustion section 2. In the primary heat exchanger 20, the sensible heat mainly contained in the combustion gas is recovered. The hot water heated in the primary heat exchanger 20 in this way flows out from the water outlet 20a of the primary heat exchanger 20, and is supplied toward a curan or a bathtub or the like as a hot water supply destination.

  As described above, in the combustion apparatus 1, drainage is generated along with heat exchange in the secondary heat exchanger 25. The drain generated here falls in the combustion case 3 and collects in the exhaust collecting portion 5. Thereafter, the drain flows into the inflow tank 31 of the storage container 30 constituting the neutralization device 7 provided below the exhaust collecting portion 5 through the drain discharge port 27 provided at the bottom of the exhaust collecting portion 5. . The drain that has flowed into the inflow tank 31 is neutralized by the neutralizing agent C stored in the storage container 30.

Next, the function of each water level detection electrode 37 and the energization method for the water level detection electrode 37 will be described.
As described above, in the combustion apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the minimum water level detection electrode 37a, the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b, and the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c are provided in the storage container 30.
The lowest water level detection electrode 37a is at the lowermost of the three water level detection electrodes 37 described above, and is provided to ensure the lower limit of the water level. That is, as described above, the lower end of the lowest water level detection electrode 37 a is at a position corresponding to the upper end portion of the communication portion 35 of the storage container 30. Therefore, if the water level of the storage container 30 is lower than the lowest water level detection electrode 37a, the water-sealed state of the storage container 30 is broken, and there is a risk that the combustion gas flows downstream of the storage container 30. Since this situation is a situation that should be avoided, when the minimum water level detection electrode 37a does not detect the water level, the combustion is immediately stopped and a predetermined alarm is displayed. Moreover, the water injection means 40 is made to function and water is injected into the storage container 30. That is, the electromagnetic valve 42 of the water injection pipe 41 is opened to inject water into the storage container 30. Water injection is performed to a level slightly exceeding the water level detected by the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b. Specifically, after the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b detects the water level, water is injected until a predetermined time elapses.

  Further, in the state immediately after the combustion apparatus 1 is shipped from the factory and installed at the installation location such as a home, naturally, there is no water in the storage container 30, so that the water level detection electrode 37a cannot naturally detect the water level. Also in this case, the water injection means 40 is made to function and water is injected into the storage container 30 as described above.

  Since the minimum water level detection electrode 37a is provided to ensure the lower limit of the water level as described above, the minimum water level detection electrode 37a is always water when the combustion device 1 is functioning normally. Is in contact with. Accordingly, when energized, the drain in the storage container 30 is decomposed and electrically attracted to form a film on the lowest water level detection electrode 37a.

The appropriate water level detection electrode 37b determines whether or not an appropriate amount of water is present in the storage container 30. In the case where the combustion apparatus 1 is just installed at the above-described installation location, water injection by the water injection means 40 is performed to a level slightly exceeding the water level detected by the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b.
Further, when the combustion mode is not performed in the on mode state, it is monitored whether or not an appropriate amount of water exists in the storage container 30 by the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b. That is, it is confirmed by the control means 50 whether drain or hot water has accumulated in the storage container 30 to a water level equal to or higher than the water injection reference water level Lc. Here, when it is confirmed that the water level has reached the water injection reference water level Lc, the water level in the storage container 30 is changed due to, for example, performing a combustion operation or backflow of outside air through the silencer 6. Even if it drops as much as possible, the water seal state can be maintained and the passage of combustion gas can be prevented. Therefore, when it is confirmed that the water level in the inflow tank 31 is equal to or higher than the water injection reference water level Lc, it is assumed that there are no problems such as the above water injection failure and fuel leakage. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the water level in the storage container 30 is less than the water injection reference water level Lc, water injection into the storage container 30 is automatically started.

However, in the case of the on mode and non-combustion, when the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b changes from the state where the water level is detected to the state where the water level is not detected, this state (state where the water level is not detected) remains for a certain period of time. When it occurs continuously or frequently, the water injection means 40 is operated to inject water into the storage container 30.
That is, the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b is provided to keep the water level in the storage container 30 at an appropriate water level, but even if the water level at which the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b is provided is divided, The sealed state is not broken. In addition, the water level in the storage container 30 may change due to disturbances such as wind. If water is injected in such a case, water injection and water injection stop are repeated frequently. Therefore, when the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b does not detect the water level while the combustion is stopped, the water injection means 40 is made to function to inject water into the storage container 30 when this state continues for a certain period of time or frequently occurs. It is said.

When the combustion apparatus 1 is functioning normally with respect to the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b, there are many opportunities to come into contact with water. That is, the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b is in contact with water almost always during combustion stop. Accordingly, when energized, the drain in the storage container 30 is decomposed and electrically attracted to form a film on the lowest water level detection electrode 37a.
Note that during combustion, the pressure of the combustion gas may act on the liquid level of the storage container 30, and the water level may drop to expose the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b.

The dangerous water level detection electrode 37c is at the top of the three water level detection electrodes 37 and detects an abnormality in the water level. When the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c detects the water level, the storage container 30 is in a full state, and there is a possibility that the storage container 30 may overflow from other than the discharge port 34a.
Therefore, when the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c detects the water level, the combustion is immediately stopped and a predetermined alarm is displayed.

  The dangerous water level detection electrode 37c detects an abnormality, and does not come into contact with water when the combustion apparatus 1 is functioning normally. Therefore, even when the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c is energized, the film does not adhere to the surface.

Conventionally, each of the above-described water level detection electrodes 37 is always energized. However, in this embodiment, the time during which the water level detection electrodes 37 are energized intermittently and the energization is stopped. is there.
In the present embodiment, there are three patterns of energization intervals when energizing each water level detection electrode 37, and they are properly used according to the operation status of the combustion apparatus.
FIG. 3 is a time chart showing a first energization pattern for the water level detection electrode, and shows a standby energization mode. FIG. 4 is a time chart showing a second energization pattern for the water level detection electrode, and shows an inspection energization mode. FIG. 5 is a time chart showing a third energization pattern for the water level detection electrode, and shows an intermittent energization operation mode.

In the standby energization mode as the first energization pattern, the lowest water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b are not energized, and only the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c is energized.
The standby energization mode is an energization pattern executed in the off mode as will be described later.

In the inspection energization mode as the second energization pattern, all the water level detection electrodes 37 are energized. That is, the lowest water level detection electrode 37a, the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b, and the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c are energized. Energization may be performed simultaneously or sequentially.
In the present embodiment, all the water level detection electrodes 37 are energized for a minute time A with a certain time interval B. Since the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c is always energized, the second energization pattern employed in this embodiment always energizes the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c, and the minimum water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode. The energization to 37b is performed intermittently, and this additional energization is performed only for a minute time A with a fixed time interval B.
The time interval B is about several seconds, and the minute time A is about several hundred milliseconds.
Since the energization time is the minute time A, it is desirable to perform this several times. In the present embodiment, it is executed three times.

In the intermittent energization operation mode as the third energization pattern, the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c is always energized, and the minimum water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b are energized intermittently. Even in the inspection energization mode as the second energization pattern described above, the operation for energizing the lowest water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b is performed intermittently, but the intermittent energization operation as the third energization pattern. In mode, the pause time is even longer.
That is, the operation of energizing the minimum water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b at short intervals is intermittently performed, and this operation is repeated with a large interval. Even in the intermittent energization operation mode, the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c is always energized.
In the intermittent energization operation mode, the operation of energizing the minimum water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b several times (twice) with a fixed time interval B similar to the above-described inspection energization mode for a minute time A is performed. The minimum water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b are energized several times (twice) at the start of the intermittent energization operation mode. Thereafter, there is a long rest time C, and during the rest time C, the lowest water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b are not energized.

Specifically, the downtime C is about several minutes. When the rest time C elapses, the lowest water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b are energized twice more, and the rest time C is entered. Thereafter, this operation is repeated.
In the intermittent energization operation mode as the third energization pattern, the time during which the energization is stopped is much longer than the time during which the minimum water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b are energized. Specifically, a difference of about 50 to 10,000 times is provided.
The intermittent energization operation mode that is the third energization pattern is the on mode as will be described later, and energization that is executed when combustion is not being performed (precisely, before rotation (pre-purge) of the fan before combustion is started). It is a pattern.
Further, even during the exhaust operation (post-purge) of the fan after the completion of combustion, the water level detection electrode 37 is energized based on the intermittent energization operation mode which is the third energization pattern.

Next, a series of operations from the power-on of the combustion apparatus 1 to the end of combustion will be described focusing on the energization pattern for the water level detection electrode 37.
In the combustion apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, as described above, the operation switch 65 is provided separately from the power switch (not shown), and combustion is enabled when the operation switch 65 is turned on.
Therefore, in step 1 immediately after the power switch is turned on, the off mode state is set. In the off mode, the combustion is not started even if there is a combustion request even though the power is supplied.

In this state, it waits for the operation switch 65 to be turned on (step 3). During this period, the water level detection electrode 37 is energized in the standby energization mode as the first energization pattern.
That is, in step 1 immediately after the power switch is turned on, the off-mode state is entered, and in the subsequent step 2, the standby energization mode as the first energization pattern is selected, and the lowest water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b are selected. Is not energized, and only the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c is energized.

When the operation switch 65 is turned on, step 3 becomes yes and the process proceeds to step 4 to switch to the on mode. In subsequent step 5, the energization pattern for the water level detection electrode 37 is switched from the standby energization mode as the first energization pattern to the inspection energization mode as the second energization pattern.
In the inspection energization mode that is the second energization pattern, all the water level detection electrodes 37 are energized three times, although in a very short time.
In step 6, it is determined whether or not there are any abnormalities in the three water level detection electrodes 37, the wiring related thereto, and the like from the conduction state at the time of energization described above.
Specifically, when the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b or the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c detects the presence of the water level, the minimum water level detection electrode 37a does not detect the presence of the water level. The electrode 37 and the wiring related thereto are abnormal.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 1, the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b or the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c is provided above the lowest water level detection electrode 37a. Therefore, the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b or the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c is provided. It is unlikely that there is a continuity between the ground electrode 36 and the ground electrode 36 and there is no continuity between the minimum water level detection electrode 37a and the ground electrode 36. In such a case, it is expected that the minimum water level detection electrode 37a or its wiring is disconnected. In addition, the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b or the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c may be short-circuited. In any case, if these are detected because the device is faulty, the process proceeds to step 15, and after energizing all the water level detection electrodes 37 after displaying a predetermined warning (step 16), the device is stopped. Let

On the other hand, if no abnormality is found in the three water level detection electrodes 37 or the wiring related thereto due to the conduction state at the time of energization in Step 6, the process proceeds to Steps 7, 8, and 9 in the storage container 30. Determine whether the proper amount of water is present.
More specifically, it is determined in step 7 whether or not the minimum water level detection electrode 37a has detected the water level. If the water level has been detected, the flow proceeds to step 8 and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b detects the water level. Determine whether or not. In step 9, it is confirmed that the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c does not detect the water level.
If it is determined in steps 7 and 8 that the water in the storage container 30 is insufficient, the process proceeds to step 17 and water is poured into the storage container 30. That is, the electromagnetic valve 42 of the water injection pipe 41 is opened to inject water into the storage container 30. Water injection is performed to a level slightly exceeding the water level detected by the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b. Specifically, after the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b detects the water level, water is injected until a predetermined time elapses.
On the other hand, when the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c detects the water level in step 9, since the storage container 30 is in a full state, the process proceeds to step 15 to display a predetermined warning and then to all the water level detection electrodes 37. The energization is stopped (step 16), and the device is stopped.

  If it is determined in Steps 7, 8, and 9 that an appropriate amount of water is present in the storage container 30, the process proceeds to the next Step 10, the intermittent energization operation mode as the third energization pattern is selected, and the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c is selected. In contrast, the energization is always performed, and the energization of the minimum water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b is performed intermittently. More specifically, the operation of energizing the minimum water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b at short intervals is performed intermittently, and this operation is repeated with a large interval.

In step 11, a combustion request is awaited. That is, the intermittent energization operation mode described above continues until there is a combustion request.
If there is a combustion request in step 11, the routine proceeds to step 12 to perform a predetermined combustion operation. At this time, all the water level detection electrodes 37 are energized to monitor the water level in the storage container 30 (step 13).
In step 14, a combustion stop signal is awaited. When the combustion is stopped, the process returns to step 10, and the energization pattern to the water level detection electrode 37 returns to the intermittent energization operation mode as the third energization pattern.

In all steps, the on / off state of the operation switch 65 is monitored. When the operation switch 65 is turned off, the operation mode is immediately switched to the off mode, and the water level detection electrode 37 is energized in the standby energization mode as the first energization pattern. .
When the operation switch 65 is turned on again, the water level detection electrode 37 is immediately energized in the intermittent energization operation mode as the third energization pattern, and the inspection energization mode as the second energization pattern is performed. When the operation switch 65 is turned on again, the inspection energization mode that is the second energization pattern may be omitted.

  In the embodiment described above, the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c is always energized in any of the first energization pattern, the second energization pattern, and the third energization pattern, and the remaining minimum water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b remain. Was intermittently energized. This electric circuit can be realized by using two relays. That is, the energization of the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c is interrupted by one relay, and the lowest water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b are connected in parallel, and the energization is interrupted by another relay.

Although the energization situation in the first energization pattern, the second energization pattern, and the third energization pattern changes somewhat, by using one switching relay, the first energization pattern, the second energization pattern, and the third energization pattern are substantially A similar energization pattern can be created.
FIG. 7 is a time chart showing a first energization pattern for the water level detection electrode when one switching relay is used, and shows a standby energization mode. FIG. 8 is a time chart showing a second energization pattern for the water level detection electrode when one switching relay is used, and shows an inspection energization mode. FIG. 9 is a time chart showing the third energization pattern for the water level detection electrode when one switching relay is used, and shows an intermittent energization operation mode.

When using a switching relay, connect the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c to one contact of the switching relay, connect the minimum water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b in parallel, and connect to the other contact. Turn off the power.
Since the relay used this time is a switching relay, electricity is selectively supplied to the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c side and the lowest water level detection electrode 37a side.
Accordingly, as shown in FIGS. 7, 8 and 9, the energization pattern is such that the energization to the dangerous water level detection electrode 37c is interrupted while the minimum water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b are energized. It becomes.

  In the above-described embodiment, in the intermittent energization operation mode, the operation of energizing the minimum water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b for a short time at short intervals is performed, and this operation is repeated with a long interval. However, it is also possible to energize only once over a slightly long time such as several hundred milliseconds and repeat this energization operation with a large interval.

  In the embodiment described above, all the water level detection electrodes 37 are energized during combustion and the water level in the storage container 30 is constantly monitored (step 13). However, even during combustion, the lowest water level detection is performed. It is good also as supplying with electricity to the electrode 37a for electrodes and the electrode 37b for appropriate water level detection intermittently. However, the energization time for the minimum water level detection electrode 37a and the appropriate water level detection electrode 37b should be longer than in the intermittent energization operation mode, and the energization interval should be shorter than in the intermittent energization operation mode.

  In the combustion apparatus 1 shown in the above embodiment, the display unit 66 and the speaker 67 provided in the remote controller 60 function as a notification unit, and when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred due to the abnormality determination, this is notified to the user. It can be configured. Therefore, according to the above-described configuration, when a problem such as fuel leakage occurs, this can be quickly notified to the user, and the combustion apparatus 1 excellent in safety can be provided.

  In the above embodiment, the neutralization device 7 is used to form the drain discharge system for discharging the drain generated by the combustion operation. However, the neutralization device 7 forms only a part of the drain discharge system. It may be. Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the neutralization apparatus 7 illustrated what also has the function as a water sealing apparatus, this invention is not limited to this, As above-mentioned neutralization apparatus 7, as a water sealing apparatus In addition to the functioning configuration, a configuration that separately functions as a neutralizing device may be provided.

  The combustion apparatus 1 shown in the above embodiment includes the so-called reverse combustion type combustion unit 2, but the present invention is not limited to this, for example, a conventionally known vaporization type combustion apparatus. As described above, any type of combustion may be employed, such as a type that burns liquid fuel vaporized or a type of combustion device that burns gas. The combustion apparatus 1 is not limited to a type having only a so-called general hot water supply function, but has a bath reheating function and a hot water heating function instead of the general hot water supply function, or a composite having a plurality of these functions. It may be a machine.

  The above-described combustion device 1 does not have a problem that the combustion gas is discharged through the neutralization device 7. Therefore, the combustion apparatus 1 can be suitably installed indoors.

  In the embodiment described above, the four electrodes are largely divided into “detection electrode” and “ground electrode”, but the “ground electrode” is electrically opposed to the detection electrode whose installation position and length are determined. Means an electrode that does not have to be grounded. In addition, the polarity when energizing between the “detection electrode” and the “ground electrode” is arbitrary, and either may be an anode. Moreover, you may energize alternating current between both.

It is an apparatus block diagram of the combustion apparatus concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is an operation | movement principle figure of the combustion apparatus shown in FIG. It is a time chart which shows the 1st electricity supply pattern with respect to the electrode for water level detection, and shows standby electricity supply mode. It is a time chart which shows the 2nd electricity supply pattern with respect to the electrode for water level detection, and shows a test electricity supply mode. It is a time chart which shows the 3rd electricity supply pattern with respect to the electrode for water level detection, and shows an intermittent electricity supply operation mode. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the combustion apparatus shown in FIG. It is a time chart which shows the 1st electricity supply pattern with respect to the electrode for water level detection at the time of using one switching relay, and shows the standby electricity supply mode. It is a time chart which shows the 2nd electricity supply pattern with respect to the electrode for water level detection at the time of using one switching relay, and shows test | inspection electricity supply mode. It is a time chart which shows the 3rd electricity supply pattern with respect to the electrode for water level detection at the time of using one switching relay, and shows an intermittent electricity supply operation mode.

1 Combustion device (latent heat recovery type combustion device)
2 Combustion section (combustion means)
4 Combustion gas passage 7 Neutralization device (drain discharge system, water seal device)
9 Heat exchange means 26 Inlet piping (water supply pipeline)
30 storage container 35 communicating portion 37a minimum water level detection electrode 37b appropriate water level detection electrode 37c dangerous water level detection electrode 40 water injection means 50 control means 66 display means (notification means)
67 Speaker (notification means)

Claims (13)

A combustion apparatus having a drain discharge system for discharging drain generated in accordance with a combustion operation, wherein the water seal apparatus is a storage device capable of storing drain. A container having a water level detection electrode for detecting the water level in the storage container, and the water level detection electrode is in a normal state that part or all of the electrode is in contact with water. An on-mode state that includes an intermittent energization operation mode that intermittently energizes the water level detection electrode , is in a state in which power is supplied, and can immediately start combustion in response to a combustion request; There is an off mode state in which combustion is not started even when there is a combustion request even though power is supplied, and intermittent electric drive is performed in the on mode state until combustion is started. Combustion apparatus characterized by being operated by a mode. Combustion means, a combustion gas passage through which combustion gas generated by the combustion operation in the combustion means flows, heat exchange means for exchanging heat with the combustion gas flowing through the combustion gas passage, and drain generated by the combustion operation A combustion apparatus having a drain discharge system for discharging, wherein the drain discharge system includes a water seal device, and the water seal device includes a storage container capable of storing drain, An electrode for detecting a minimum water level capable of detecting the minimum water level, which is in a water-sealed state capable of preventing the passage of combustion gas by setting drain or water to a level above a predetermined minimum water level. An intermittent energization operation mode in which the minimum water level detection electrode detects the presence of water by energization and intermittently energizes the minimum water level detection electrode. Provided, the on mode state in which power can immediately initiate combustion in accordance with and combustion request a state of being supplied, does not start combustion even if the combustion request spite of the state where power is supplied A combustion apparatus characterized by having an off-mode state and operating in an intermittent energization operation mode during a period until the combustion is started in the on-mode state .   It has an appropriate water level detection electrode capable of detecting an appropriate water level for the storage container, and the appropriate water level detection electrode detects the presence of water by energization, and intermittently energizes the appropriate water level detection electrode. The combustion apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an intermittent energization operation mode.   4. A dangerous water level detection electrode capable of detecting a dangerous water level with respect to the storage container, wherein the dangerous water level detection electrode detects the presence of water when energized. The combustion apparatus as described in. A combustion apparatus having a drain discharge system for discharging drain generated in accordance with a combustion operation, wherein the water seal apparatus is a storage device capable of storing drain. A container having a water level detection electrode for detecting the water level in the storage container, and the water level detection electrode is in a normal state that part or all of the electrode is in contact with water. Is equipped with an intermittent energization operation mode for intermittently energizing the water level detection electrode,
  By setting drain or water in a storage container up to a predetermined water level above the predetermined minimum water level, it becomes a water-sealed state that can prevent the passage of combustion gas,
  An electrode for detecting a minimum water level capable of detecting the minimum water level is provided,
An appropriate water level detection electrode capable of detecting an appropriate water level relative to the storage container, and a dangerous water level detection electrode capable of detecting a dangerous water level relative to the storage container;
An on-mode state in which electric power is supplied and combustion can be started immediately in response to a combustion request, and an off-mode in which combustion is not started even when there is a combustion request despite being supplied with power There is a state, immediately after being changed from the off mode state to the on mode state, the minimum water level detection electrode, the appropriate water level detection electrode, and the dangerous water level detection electrode are operated simultaneously or sequentially in the inspection energization mode, A combustion apparatus characterized in that the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode are operated in an intermittent energization operation mode during a period after that until combustion is started. Combustion means, a combustion gas passage through which combustion gas generated by the combustion operation in the combustion means flows, heat exchange means for exchanging heat with the combustion gas flowing through the combustion gas passage, and drain generated by the combustion operation A combustion apparatus having a drain discharge system for discharging, wherein the drain discharge system includes a water seal device, and the water seal device includes a storage container capable of storing drain, An electrode for detecting a minimum water level capable of detecting the minimum water level, which is in a water-sealed state capable of preventing the passage of combustion gas by setting drain or water to a level above a predetermined minimum water level. An intermittent energization operation mode in which the minimum water level detection electrode detects the presence of water by energization and intermittently energizes the minimum water level detection electrode. Provided,
An appropriate water level detection electrode capable of detecting an appropriate water level relative to the storage container, and a dangerous water level detection electrode capable of detecting a dangerous water level relative to the storage container;
An on-mode state in which electric power is supplied and combustion can be started immediately in response to a combustion request, and an off-mode in which combustion is not started even when there is a combustion request despite being supplied with power There is a state, immediately after being changed from the off mode state to the on mode state, the minimum water level detection electrode, the appropriate water level detection electrode, and the dangerous water level detection electrode are operated simultaneously or sequentially in the inspection energization mode, A combustion apparatus characterized in that the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode are operated in an intermittent energization operation mode during a period after that until combustion is started. If the storage container has water injection means that can replenish water, and no water level detection electrode detects the water level when operated in the test energization mode, the water injection means and the appropriate water level detection are detected by the water injection means. During the period until the storage container is replenished with water until both water electrodes detect the water level and combustion starts thereafter, the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode are operated in the intermittent energization mode. The combustion apparatus according to claim 5 or 6 , wherein the combustion apparatus is operated. It has water injection means that can replenish water to the storage container, and when operated in the test energization mode, the minimum water level detection electrode detects the water level, and the appropriate water level detection electrode and the dangerous water level detection electrode If no water is detected, the storage container is refilled with water until both the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode detect the water level by the water injection means, and after that, until the combustion starts The combustion apparatus according to any one of claims 5 to 7 , wherein the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode are operated in an intermittent energization operation mode. By setting drain or water in a storage container up to a predetermined water level above the predetermined minimum water level, it becomes a water-sealed state that can prevent the passage of combustion gas,
An electrode for detecting a minimum water level capable of detecting the minimum water level is provided,
An appropriate water level detection electrode capable of detecting an appropriate water level relative to the storage container, and a dangerous water level detection electrode capable of detecting a dangerous water level relative to the storage container;
When the combustion device is in the off mode state, the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode are operated in the intermittent energization operation mode, or the current supply to the minimum water level detection electrode and the appropriate water level detection electrode is stopped. The combustion apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8 .   The combustion apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein in the intermittent energization operation mode, the energization stop time is longer than the energization time. Has a dangerous water level detection electrode that can detect the dangerous water level for the storage container,
The combustion apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the dangerous water level detection electrode is in a state in which the energization time is longer than the pause time even in the on-mode state. By setting drain or water in a storage container up to a predetermined water level above the predetermined minimum water level, it becomes a water-sealed state that can prevent the passage of combustion gas,
An electrode for detecting a minimum water level capable of detecting the minimum water level is provided,
An appropriate water level detection electrode capable of detecting an appropriate water level relative to the storage container, and a dangerous water level detection electrode capable of detecting a dangerous water level relative to the storage container;
When the appropriate water level detection electrode or the dangerous water level detection electrode detects the presence of the water level and the lowest water level detection electrode does not detect the presence of the water level, and the dangerous water level detection electrode detects the presence of the water level and detects the lowest water level. The combustion apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising an electrode test function for determining whether or not the water electrode or the appropriate water level detection electrode may not detect the presence of the water level.   The combustion apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the storage container has a function of neutralizing the drain.

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