JPH07167495A - Self-checking of temperature sensor in large-capacity hot-water supply system with composite heat source - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To judge whether a first and a second of warm-water temperature sensors function normally or not in a hot-water supply system of large capacity so as to enhance safety and reliability of the hot-water system. CONSTITUTION:The subject relates to a system in which hot water produced by hot-water heaters 11 is stored in a hot-water storage tank 1 through a closed warm-water conduit 3 and the hot water in the storage tank 1 is kept warm by the conduit 3. To make a thermistor T1, self-check its function, hot water is passed through, for example, any one of the hot-water heaters 11 without igniting it; the temperature detected by a water-temperature sensor in the hot-water heater 11 is compared with the temperature detected by the thermistor T1 and, when the two detected values virtually agree, the thermistor T1 is judged to be normal. To make a thermistor T2 self-check its function, for example, any two of the hot-water heaters 11 are operated and the temperature of the hot water flowing in the conduit 3, detected by the thermistor T2, is estimated by calculation using sensors in the hot-water heaters 11; the estimated temperature is compared with the value detected by the thermistor T2 and, when the two values virtually agree, the thermistor T2 is judged to be normal.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a method for self-checking a temperature sensor in a large capacity hot water supply system equipped with a combined heat source.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art When a large amount of hot water is temporarily used for an apartment house such as a condominium, a single dormitory with a large public bath, a public bath, a large-scale house, a restaurant, etc. A large-capacity hot water supply device is provided.

FIG. 8 shows a system of a general high capacity water heater of this type. In the figure, the combined heating circulation system 26 is arranged with heating circulation systems 6a to 6d,
Between the combined circulation system 26 and the hot water storage tank 1, there is a hot water circulation line 3
The on-off valve 2 is provided in the warm water circulation pipe line 3. Each of the heating and circulation systems 6a to 6d includes a water heater 11 which is a heat source device, an inlet valve 7 and an outlet valve 12, and each water heater 11 is required for combustion control for producing hot water. Various sensors such as various flow sensors, inlet water temperature sensors, hot water temperature sensors, etc., and a sensor substrate 9 into which various sensor information is input and a combustion control circuit 15 are built in.
15 is a water heater based on the sensor information from the sensor board 9
Performs 11 combustion controls. Then, by operating a remote controller outside the water heater 11 connected to the combustion control circuit 15, hot water of a desired temperature can be individually produced for each water heater 11. The valves 7 and 12 are closed at the time of repair and inspection, and are always kept open.

The hot water storage tank 1 is a tank for storing hot water produced by the hot water supply device 11. The hot water circulation pipe 3 supplies hot water from the hot water supply device 11 to the hot water storage tank 1, and further the hot water circulation pipe 3 supplies the hot water. The hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 is circulated between the heating circulation systems 6a to 6d and the hot water storage tank 1 to keep the hot water. Further, a water supply pipe 4 is connected to the hot water circulation pipe 3, and the water passed through the water supply pipe 4 passes through the hot water circulation pipe 3 a and each heating circulation of the hot water storage tank 1 and the composite heating circulation system 26. It can be supplied to the systems 6a to 6d.

The hot water storage tank 1 is provided with a first temperature switch 30 on the lower side of the tank 1 and a second temperature switch 31 on the intermediate side of the tank 1, and the respective temperature switches 30, 31 are provided. Is turned on when the temperature of the hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 becomes lower than the set temperature, and turned off when the temperature exceeds the set temperature, and these on / off signals are applied to the system control circuit 16.

The system control circuit 16 is a first temperature switch.
When 30 is turned on, the first and second series heating circulation systems 6a, 6
When the second temperature switch 31 is turned on, the heating and circulation systems 6a to 6d of all the series are driven and controlled. The drive control of each heating circulation system drives the hot water circulation pump 8 to perform the combustion operation of the water heater 11, and the inlet side valve 7
The hot water or water sucked from the side is heated by the water heater 11, and the hot water produced by this heating is supplied to the upper side of the hot water storage tank 1 via the hot water supply pipe 3b. The system control circuit 16 is a circuit that performs sequence control on the system side, and performs not only drive control of each heating circulation system 6a to 6d but also drive control of the hot water supply circulation pump 18.

A hot water supply circulation line 17 is connected to the hot water storage tank via an on-off valve 14, and this hot water supply circulation line 17 is connected to a pipe 27 leading to each dwelling unit to guide it to a desired place such as a kitchen or a bathroom. By opening the faucet 24, hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 is supplied by tap water pressure. By driving the hot water supply circulation pump 18 provided in the hot water supply circulation pipe 17, the hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 circulates through the circulation pipe and is returned to the upper part of the hot water storage tank 1, and the faucet 24 is closed to remove the hot water. When not in use, the hot water is circulated in the hot water supply pipe 17 to prevent the hot water from cooling inside the pipe, and when the faucet 24 is opened, the hot water of the set temperature can be immediately discharged.

In this type of large capacity device, when the faucet of each dwelling unit is closed, hot water is circulated in the hot water supply circulation pipe line 17 by driving the hot water supply circulation pump 18 to keep the hot water warm. Although it has been done, when the faucet of a dwelling unit is opened, water is tapped from the faucet of the dwelling unit due to the water supply pressure.

Water enters the hot water storage tank 1 from the side of the water supply pipe 4, but the specific gravity of hot water (water) is smaller when the temperature is higher than that when the temperature is low, so even if water enters from the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1, The water and the hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 1 do not mix at once, and there is low-temperature hot water on the lower side of the tank 1 and high-temperature hot water on the upper side of the tank 1. Like Then, water rapidly enters the tank 1 from the lower side of the tank 1, and the boundary between the low-temperature hot water (low-temperature portion) whose temperature is lowered by the water and the high-temperature hot water (high-temperature portion) gradually rises. When the temperature reaches the first temperature switch 30, the temperature switch 30 is turned on because the temperature of the low-temperature hot water is lower than the set temperature of the temperature switch 30, and the control device 16 receives the ON signal of the temperature switch 30. Warm circulation system 6
The inside of a and 6b is driven. Then, the water passing from the water supply pipe 4 through the hot water circulation pipe 3a enters the heating circulation systems 6a and 6b, is heated by the combustion of the water heater 11 and becomes hot water of a set temperature, and the hot water storage tank is passed through the circulation pipe 3b. 1 is fed into the hot water storage tank 1 from above.

As described above, hot water is replenished into the hot water storage tank 1 through the heating circulation systems 6a and 6b by the load of the hot water supply, but if the hot water supply load capacity becomes very large, the heating circulation systems of the first and second series. The hot water supply capacities of 6a and 6b cannot catch up, the proportion of water in the hot water storage tank 1 gradually increases, and the boundary between the high temperature portion and the low temperature portion rises accordingly. When the boundary reaches the second temperature switch 31, the temperature of the hot water in the low temperature portion is lower than the set temperature of the temperature switch 31, so the temperature switch 31 is turned on, and the system control circuit 16 receives this on signal. Drives all series of heating circulation systems 6a to 6d, and the hot water produced by each of the heating circulation systems 6a to 6d is supplied from the upper side of the hot water storage tank 1 through the hot water circulation pipeline 3b. The lukewarm water mixed with water does not come out of the road 17.

Incidentally, recently, as shown in FIG. 9, a thermistor functioning as a first hot water temperature sensor in the hot water circulation conduit 3a for detecting the temperature of hot water sent from the hot water storage tank 1 to the water heater 11 side. T ₁ is provided, and the thermistor T ₂ that functions as a second hot water temperature sensor is provided in the hot water circulation conduit 3 b to detect the temperature of hot water supplied from the water heater 11 to the hot water storage tank 1. _{By 1} and T ₂ ,
By detecting the temperature of hot water sent to the water heater 11 and the temperature of hot water sent from the water heater 11 to the hot water storage tank 1, and inputting a detection signal to the system control circuit 16, the warming circulation operation of the hot water supply system is performed. It has been proposed to do it meticulously.

In the hot water supply system as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, for example, in the hot water supply device 11, for example, a flow sensor, an incoming water temperature sensor, and a hot water output required for combustion control for producing hot water in each hot water supply device 11. Information of various sensors such as a temperature sensor is input to a sensor board 9 built in the water heater 11, and a circuit provided in the sensor board 9 detects resistance values of the incoming water temperature sensor and the outgoing hot water temperature sensor. , The temperature detected by each temperature sensor is known from its resistance value.
If the detected resistance value is zero or is too large beyond the specified range, it is judged that each temperature sensor has a short circuit failure or an open circuit failure. The combustion control circuit 15 temporarily stops the combustion of the water heater 11 in which it is determined that the incoming water temperature sensor or the hot water temperature sensor has failed, and the operator replaces the failed temperature sensor. .

Despite the fact that the water heater 11 is burning, for example, when the resistance value of the hot water temperature sensor detected by the circuit of the sensor substrate 9 does not change or when the hot water detected by the incoming water temperature sensor ( The combustion control circuit 15 estimates the resistance value of the hot water temperature sensor from the temperature of water), the amount of hot water (water) entering the hot water heater 11 detected by the flow sensor, the amount of gas burned in the hot water heater 11, and the like. However, if the estimated resistance value and the measured value of the resistance value of the hot water temperature sensor are significantly different, it is determined that the hot water temperature sensor is abnormal, and based on the judgment, the combustion control circuit 15 determines the hot water temperature sensor as described above. Error display,
For example, the combustion of the water heater 11 is temporarily stopped.

Further, the hot water circulation line 3 as shown in FIG.
Regarding the hot water supply system in which the thermistors T ₁ and T ₂ are provided in the above, the resistance values of the thermistors T ₁ and T ₂ detected by the system control circuit 16 may be zero or may be too large beyond a predetermined range. At some times, the system control circuit 16 has a function of determining that the thermistors T ₁ and T ₂ have a short circuit failure or an open circuit failure, similarly to the above.

[0015]

However, in the hot water supply system as shown in FIG. 9, when the temperature change does not occur in the thermistor T ₁ or the thermistor T ₂ even when the hot water supply system is operated, the thermistors T ₁ , T are not really changed. _Since it is not possible to accurately judge whether ₂ has failed,
It takes a lot of time and labor for the worker to confirm whether or not the thermistors T ₁ and T ₂ are abnormal, and it is difficult to quickly replace the thermistors T ₁ and T ₂ when there is an abnormality. In addition, since the thermistors T ₁ and T ₂ cannot be accurately and swiftly used for abnormality determination and failure countermeasures,
There was also a problem with the reliability of the hot water system control.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and its purpose is to determine whether the first and second hot water temperature sensors such as the thermistors T ₁ and T ₂ are functioning normally. An object of the present invention is to provide a method for self-checking a temperature sensor in a large capacity hot water supply system equipped with a combined heat source device capable of making an accurate judgment and having high safety and reliability of the hot water supply system.

[0017]

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention is constructed as follows. That is, the first aspect of the present invention is provided with a plurality of heat source devices for producing hot water and a hot water storage tank for containing the hot water produced by these heat source devices. Supply of hot water from the heat source devices to the tank and hot water in the hot water storage tank are provided. A hot water circulation pipe for maintaining heat is provided between the hot water storage tank and the heat source device, each heat source device is provided with a temperature required for combustion control for producing hot water, and the hot water circulation pipe line is provided with a hot water storage tank. A method for self-checking an abnormal state of the first hot water temperature sensor of a large capacity hot water supply system, which is provided with a first hot water temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of hot water entering the heat source device from the first hot water When inspecting the temperature sensor, hot water is passed through the hot water circulation pipe into the heat source device, and the temperature of the hot water entering the heat source device is detected by the incoming water temperature sensor of the heat source device. Temperature sensor detection The first hot water temperature sensor is determined to be normal when both detected temperatures match within a predetermined temperature range, and the first hot water temperature sensor is detected when both detected temperatures do not match within a predetermined temperature range. Is determined to be abnormal and the first abnormal signal is output.

A second aspect of the present invention is provided with a plurality of heat source devices for producing hot water and a hot water storage tank for containing the hot water produced by these heat source devices. A hot water circulation pipe for keeping the hot water of the hot water is provided between the hot water storage tank and the heat source device, and each of the heat source devices is provided with a temperature sensor necessary for combustion control for producing hot water. A method for self-checking an abnormal state of the second hot water temperature sensor of a large capacity hot water supply system, which is provided with a second hot water temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of hot water to be supplied to the second hot water. When inspecting the temperature sensor, the temperature of the hot water discharged from the heat source device is detected by the temperature sensor of the heat source device, and based on the detected value of this temperature, it flows through the hot water circulation pipe line and is detected by the second hot water temperature sensor. The temperature of hot water Therefore, the estimated temperature is compared with the detected temperature of the second hot water temperature sensor, and when the difference between the estimated temperature and the detected temperature of the second hot water temperature sensor is within a predetermined range, The second hot water temperature sensor is judged to be normal, and when it exceeds a predetermined range, the second hot water temperature sensor is judged to be abnormal and a second abnormal signal is output. .

[0019]

In the present invention having the above-described structure, when hot water is passed through the heat source device through the hot water circulating pipe in order to inspect the first hot water temperature sensor, the temperature of the hot water entering the heat source device is changed to that of the heat source device. It is detected by the temperature sensor. Then, the temperature detected by the temperature sensor and the temperature detected by the first hot water temperature sensor are compared,
When both detected temperatures match within a predetermined temperature range, the first
It is determined that the hot water temperature sensor is normal, and when both detected temperatures do not match within a predetermined temperature range, it is determined that the first hot water temperature sensor is abnormal and the first abnormal signal is output.

In order to inspect the second hot water temperature sensor, when the temperature of the heat source device detects the hot water outlet temperature, the hot water circulation pipe line is flowed based on the detected value of this temperature. The temperature of the hot water detected by the second hot water temperature sensor is estimated based on the data (various data such as tables, graphs, arithmetic expressions) given in advance. Then, the estimated temperature and the temperature detected by the second hot water temperature sensor are compared, and when the difference between the estimated temperature and the temperature detected by the second hot water temperature sensor is within a predetermined range, the first hot water temperature sensor is normal. If it exceeds the predetermined range, it is determined that the second hot water temperature sensor is abnormal, and the second abnormality signal is output.

As described above, the self-check of the first and second hot water temperature sensors is performed, whereby the first and second hot water temperature sensors are checked.
Whether or not the second hot water temperature sensor is normal is accurately determined, and when the first and second abnormal signals are output,
Based on the signal, it is possible to take prompt action.

[0022]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the description of the present embodiment, the same reference numerals will be given to the same names as those in the conventional example, and the detailed description thereof will be omitted.
FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a large-capacity hot water supply system provided with a composite heat source device according to the present invention. This embodiment is different from the conventional example in that the sensor information is sent from the sensor board 9 in which various information such as a flow sensor, an inflow water temperature sensor, and an outflow temperature sensor provided in each water heater 11 is input. In addition to being added to the combustion control circuit 15, the sensor information is sent to the system control circuit 16 on the system side as shown by the dotted line in the figure.
The system control circuit 16 uses the sensor information to control the operation of the hot water supply system so that the thermistors T ₁ and T ₂ can be self-checked. The system control circuit 16 is connected to the service station via a telephone line, and when an abnormality occurs in the hot water supply system and a system failure is confirmed, an automatic notification is immediately sent to the service station.

Further, in the present embodiment, the heating circulation systems 6a-6
A hot water circulation pump 8 is provided in d, and a heat source unit 34 in which the combined heating circulation system 26 and the hot water supply circulation pump 18 are unitized is formed. Inside the heat source unit 34, the hot water circulation pump 18 supplies hot water. A thermistor T ₅ for detecting the temperature of the hot water circulating in the circulation pipe 17 is provided, and the information on the temperature detected by the thermistor T ₅ is constantly input to the system control circuit 16.

A thermistor T ₄ is provided on the intermediate side of the tank 1 in the hot water storage tank 1, a thermistor T ₃ is provided on the lower side of the tank 1, and the thermistor T ₄ detects the temperature of the intermediate side of the tank 1. However, the thermistor T ₃ detects the temperature of the lower side of the tank 1, and the temperature information detected by the thermistors T ₄ and T ₃ is constantly added to the system control circuit 16 from the thermistors T ₄ and T _3. ing. System control circuit
When the temperature detected by the thermistors T ₃ and T ₄ in response to the signal is lower than a preset temperature, 16 is to drive any of the heating circulation systems 6a to 6d. It is designed to determine whether or not the temperature is high and to control the drive of the heating circulation system.

Hot water supply circulation line outside the heat source unit 34
The thermistor T ₆ is also provided at 17b to detect the temperature of the hot water which is circulated in the hot water circulating pipe 17 and is sent to the hot water storage tank 1. This temperature information is also constantly input to the system control circuit 16. ing. Further, the hot water supply circulation pump 18 of the present embodiment is provided with two series, and alternately operates at regular intervals.

The present embodiment is configured as described above,
The hot water circulation operation is performed as in the conventional example, but in the present embodiment,
The thermistors T ₁ , T ₂ , T ₅ , and T ₆ constantly detect the temperature of the hot water or water passing through the hot water circulation conduit 3 and the hot water supply circulation conduit 17, and the temperature is input to the system control circuit 16. 16 always keeps track of the temperature of the hot water flowing through each of the pipelines 3, 17. Further, information on the temperatures detected by the thermistors T ₃ and T ₄ provided in the hot water storage tank 1 is always input to the system control circuit 16, while the system control circuit 16 includes the heating circulation systems 6a to 6a. Various information necessary for combustion control of the water heater 11 is constantly input from the sensor substrate 9 built in the water heater 11 of 6d, and the system control circuit 16 causes the thermistor T to operate.
₃ , the temperature information input from T ₄ is compared with the set temperature previously input to the system control circuit 16, and when the detected temperature of the thermistor T ₃ or thermistor T ₄ becomes lower than the set temperature, a predetermined value is set. Drive the heating circulation system.

Next, a method of self-checking the thermistors T ₁ and T ₂ in the hot water supply system of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3. In FIG. 2, the thermistors T ₁ and T ₂ are shown.
The block diagram of the system control circuit 16 for performing the self-check is shown in FIG. 3, and the flowchart of the method for checking the thermistor T ₁ is shown in FIG. Thermistor T
The detected temperatures of the thermistors T ₁ and T ₂ are constantly input to the first temperature monitor unit 38 from ₁ and T ₂ , respectively, and the temperature monitor information is output from the temperature monitor unit 38 as an error with a timer. It is input to the estimation unit 39.

Then, for example, although all the heating circulation systems 6a to 6d of the hot water supply system of FIG.
When the resistance value of the thermistor T ₁ remains constant and does not change for a predetermined time or longer, the error estimation unit 39 of the system control circuit 16 causes the error in the thermistor T ₁ in step 101 of FIG. Then, a signal is added to the self-check command section 40, and in step 102 the water heater selection section 42 causes the hot water circulation system for checking (for example, 6a).
Is selected, and in step 103, the water heater drive unit 43
The combustion of the water heater 11 of the heating circulation system 6a selected in 102 is stopped and operated. As a result, the hot water supply device 11 drives the hot water circulation pump 8 without igniting and sends hot water to the hot water supply device 11.

Then, in step 104, the temperature of the hot water fed into the water heater 11 is detected by the water temperature sensor 52 provided in the water heater 11, and the temperature detection signal detected by the second temperature monitor 44 is detected. Add. At this time, whether or not the hot water circulation pump 8 of the heating circulation system 6a functions normally is determined by detecting information of a flow sensor provided in the water heater 11 of the heating circulation system 6a. Since it can be confirmed with 16, it is confirmed that the hot water circulation pump 8 functions normally, just in case.

Then, in step 105, the temperature comparison circuit 49 detects the temperature detected by the incoming water temperature sensor 52 and is monitored by the second temperature monitor 44, and the first temperature monitor detected by the thermistor T _1. The detection result monitored by the unit 38 is compared, and the comparison result determination unit 50 determines whether the difference between the detection temperatures is within a predetermined temperature range, that is, within 2 ° C. in the case of FIG. , For example, the thermistor T ₁
If the detected temperature difference is within 2 ° C. such as the detected temperature of 58 ° C. and the detected temperature of the water temperature sensor in the water heater 11 is 60 ° C., it is determined in step 106 that the thermistor T ₁ is normal. Here, just in case, the process returns to step 102, a heating circulation system other than the above (for example, 6b) is selected, and step 10
The operations of 3 to 105 may be repeated again. Thus, if it is confirmed again thermistor T ₁ is normal, so that the fact that the thermistor T ₁ is normal is more determined.

When the temperature comparison circuit 49 determines in step 105 that the difference between the temperature detected by the water temperature sensor 52 and the temperature detected by the thermistor T ₁ is larger than 2 ° C., the comparison result is judged in step 107. The unit 50 determines that the thermistor T ₁ is abnormal, and the abnormal signal output unit 51 outputs the first abnormal signal in step 108.

In FIG. 4, when the anomaly of the thermistor T ₁ is judged by the above operation and the first anomaly signal is output, the thermistor T utilizing the first anomaly signal is output.
The flowchart of the troubleshooting example which performs the troubleshooting of ₁ is shown.

When the first abnormal signal is output by the self-check of the thermistor T ₁ shown in FIG. 3, step 40
At 1 the system control circuit 16 determines that the thermistor T ₁ has failed, and at step 402 it is determined whether any of the temperature sensors of the water heater 11 can be used in place of the thermistor T ₁ .

This judgment is made based on the balance between the amount of hot water that can be produced when all the water heaters 11 of the heating and circulation systems 6a to 6d are operated and the amount of hot water that the entire system wants to produce. Yes, when the combustion of one of the water heaters 11 is stopped and the hot water temperature sensor of the water heater 11 is substituted for the thermistor T ₁ , the system operation is not hindered and the heat retaining operation can be performed. That is, if the number of water heaters 11 is sufficient, the substitute water heater 11 is determined in step 403, and the hot water circulation pump 8 is operated while the fire of the substitute water heater 11 is extinguished in step 404, The hot water temperature sensor of the vessel 11 is used as a substitute for the thermistor T ₁ , and the hot water circulation system 6c, 6d is driven again while the hot water temperature sensor detects the temperature of the hot water passing through the hot water circulation pipe line 3 for normal system operation. Line .

In step 402, one of the water heaters 11
If the hot water temperature sensor of is not used, the warming operation cannot be performed sufficiently and the operation of the system is hindered, that is, if the number of water heaters 11 is not enough, step
In 405, the operating capacity of the entire system is reduced, but it is determined whether the operation can be continued, and if it can be continued, in step 406, one of the temporary substitute water heaters 11 is determined as in step 403. .

Then, in step 407, the hot water circulation pump 8 is operated with the fire of the water heater 11 turned off, and the water heater
The hot water temperature sensor 11 is used instead of the thermistor T ₁ , and the hot water temperature sensor detects the temperature of the hot water passing through the circulation pipe 3 to perform the system operation. For example, while displaying an indication that the operation is at 60% load, At the same time, contact the service station and try to repair the thermistor T ₁ failure as soon as possible. When it is determined in step 405 that the operation cannot be continued, the system is stopped in step 408 and the service station is contacted so that the worker or the like can repair the thermistor T ₁ .

[0037] Thus, according to this embodiment, it is possible to perform self-check of the thermistor T ₁ by the operation shown in FIG. 3, for example, even when an error occurs in the thermistor T _1, the error Cause of the thermistor T ₁
It is possible to accurately determine whether it is due to the failure of the above, or whether the thermistor T ₁ is normal and there is another cause of error occurrence. When it is determined that the thermistor T ₁ has failed, it is possible to promptly deal with the failure by the operation shown in FIG. 4 based on the determination.

Of course, even when an error has not occurred in the thermistor T ₁ , a signal is added to the self-check command section 40 by the remote controller 41 or the like so that the self-check command section 40 can be self-checked. Since it is possible to perform the operation up to step 108 and self-check the thermistor T ₁ , the system control circuit 16 always knows whether or not the thermistor T ₁ normally functions by performing the above operation. Moreover, it is possible to quickly deal with a failure based on the result of the self-check.

[0039] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the failure dealing example of inspection method and thermistor T ₂ of the thermistor T ₂ is shown, FIG 2 describes the self-checking method of the thermistor T ₂ on the basis of FIG. Similarly to the above, the temperature information of the thermistor T ₂ is constantly monitored by the first temperature monitor unit 38, and for example, the resistance value of the thermistor T ₂ remains constant while the hot water supply system of FIG. 1 is operating. When the state of no change continues for a predetermined time or longer, the error estimation unit 39 of the system control circuit 16 receives the signal from the first temperature monitor unit 38 and the error occurs in the thermistor T ₂ in step 201 of FIG. Then, a signal is added to the self-check command section 40.

Then, in response to the signal from the self-check command section 40, the water heater selection section 42 selects the checking warming circulation system (for example, 6c, 6d) in step 202, and then step 203
Then, the water heater drive unit 43 activates the water heater 11 of the heating circulation systems 6c and 6d selected in step 202. In addition, step
When selecting the warming circulatory system for checking in 202, if there is a warming circulatory system in operation at that time, the warming circulatory system in operation may be used for checking, and a new warming circulatory system There is no need to choose.

Next, in step 204, the flow sensor 46 provided in the water heater 11 detects the amount of hot water entering the water heater 11, and the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water heater 11 is determined.
It is detected by a hot water temperature sensor 47 provided inside and is monitored by a sensor information monitor unit 45. Then, in step 205, the monitor signal from the sensor information monitor unit 45 is received, and hot water is calculated by the arithmetic circuit 48 based on the value of the amount of hot water detected by the flow sensor and the value of the hot water temperature detected by the hot water temperature sensor. The estimated temperature of the hot water flowing through the circulation conduit 3 and detected by the thermistor T ₂ is calculated (estimated) using previously calculated calculation data (calculation formula).

This arithmetic expression can be given in various forms. For example, the holding of hot water on the outlet side of the water heater is based on the temperature of hot water detected by the hot water temperature sensor and the amount of hot water detected by the flow sensor. determined the amount of heat, the held water from heat estimates the heat quantity of the hot water thermistor T ₂ position by subtracting the amount of heat radiation to reach the thermistor T _2, the following equation water temperature of its thermistor T ₂ from the estimated amount of heat detected It can be easily calculated in (1).

[0043] For example, hot water temperature is T _a through T _d of four water heaters 11 in operation, when the respective flow rate and L _a ~L _d, T _av
(Average temperature) is as follows.

[0044] _{T av = (T a L a} + T b L b + T c L c + T d L d) / (L a + L b + L c + L d) ····· (1)

Further, the allowable range given to the estimated value of T ₂ may be adjusted from the range of the maximum and minimum values of T _{a to} T _d .

Then, the calculated temperature is measured by the second temperature monitor unit 44.
To the temperature detected by the thermistor T ₂ monitored by the first temperature monitor 38, and the temperature difference between the calculated temperature and the detected temperature is determined in step 206. It is determined whether it is within a predetermined temperature range, that is, within 2 ° C. in FIG. And the temperature difference between the two is 2 ℃
If it is within the range, the comparison result judging unit 50 judges that the thermistor T ₂ is normal in step 207.

If it is determined in step 206 that the temperature difference between the calculated temperature and the detected temperature is larger than 2 ° C., the comparison result determination unit 50 determines in step 208 that the thermistor T ₂ is abnormal, In step 209, the abnormality signal output section 51 outputs a second abnormality signal, and in step 210, the calculated temperature is constantly calculated instead of the temperature detected by the thermistor T ₂ , and the water heater 11 supplies the hot water to the hot water storage tank 1. The temperature of the hot water to be used is substituted by the calculated temperature. Also, step 210
So while the thus computed temperature was substituted for the detected temperature of the thermistor T _2, by using the second abnormal signal, and contact time to the service station, to repair several such failures as soon as possible the thermistor T ₂ .

As described above, when the abnormality signal output section 51 outputs the first and second abnormality signals by the self-check operation of the thermistor T _{1 and} the self-check operation of the thermistor T ₂ , the service station is notified. However, this contact is automatically and quickly made, and
Did the thermistor T ₁ break down when calling?
_The service station will be notified with an identification signal to identify whether it has failed, and the service station can receive this notification and, for example, prepare a replacement for the failed thermistor and perform repairs. Since work such as repair / replacement can be performed in a state where the failure location is known in advance, work such as failure repair / replacement is efficiently performed.

[0049] Thus, according to this embodiment, it is possible to perform self-check of the thermistor T ₂ by the operation of steps 202 to 209 in FIG. 5, for example, even when an error occurs in the thermistor T ₂ , or the cause of the error is a thing due to the failure of the thermistor T _2, or thermistor T ₂ are able to accurately determine whether there is an error due to other normal, it is determined that the thermistor T ₂ has failed At times, based on the judgment, the operation in step 210 enables quick troubleshooting. Of course, even when an error does not occur in the thermistor T _2, and the like added signal for self-check to self-check command section 40 by the remote controller 41 or the like, steps 202 to
Since the self-check can be performed by performing operation 209, if the operation is performed regularly, the thermistor T
It is possible to achieve the same effect as in the self-check of ₁ .

The thermistors T ₁ and T ₂ are self-checked as described above every time the hot water supply system is operated for a certain period of time or every certain number of cycles, so that the safety and reliability of the hot water supply system are improved. It can be very expensive.

The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments, and various embodiments can be adopted. For example, in the above embodiment, when the thermistor T ₁ is self-checking, the difference between the temperature detected by the incoming water temperature sensor in the water heater 11 of the heating circulation system 6a selected for checking and the temperature detected by the thermistor T ₁ is 2. thermistors T ₁ depending on whether within ° C. is determined whether the normal, but not necessarily the temperature difference between the detected temperature thermistor T ₁ depending on whether 2 ℃ within determines whether the normal, hot water The system sets the range of the temperature difference between the detected temperatures, which serves as a criterion for determination. Similarly, the temperature difference between the temperature detected by the thermistor T estimated temperature during the _second self-check and thermistor T _2, the range of the temperature difference serving as a reference for determining the hot-water supply system is set.

[0052] In the above embodiment, when the self-check of the thermistor T _2, has been computed (estimated) by using the operation data given the temperature of the hot water detected by the thermistor T ₂ in advance (arithmetic expression), The estimated temperature is not necessarily estimated using the calculation data, but can be estimated and calculated using various data such as tables and graphs given in advance.

Further, in the above embodiment, the thermistor T ₂
When estimating the temperature of hot water detected by, the amount of hot water detected by the flow sensor was taken into consideration, but it was detected by the hot water temperature sensor without considering the amount of hot water detected by the flow sensor. It is also possible to obtain it based only on the temperature of the hot water and the data given in advance. In that case, for example, asking the heat radiation amount from the distance from the thickness and the hot water temperature sensor of the hot water circulation pipe 3 until the thermistor T ₂ until the hot water reaches the thermistor T _2, estimating the amount of heat of the hot water thermistor T ₂ position Then, the hot water temperature detected by the thermistor T ₂ is obtained from this estimated heat quantity, or the range of values that the thermistor T ₂ can take corresponding to the temperature of the hot water detected by the hot water temperature sensor is obtained in advance by experiments or the like. It can also be estimated by In this case, the four hot water temperature sensor output running a T _a through T _d, the minimum value of the hot water temperature sensor output when T _a, the maximum value T _d, for example, (T _a -2) You may give-( _Td + 2) degreeC as an allowable range.

Furthermore, in the self-check of the thermistors T ₁ and T ₂ , the heating circulation system 6a to be selected for checking.
6d is not particularly limited, and may be appropriately selected according to the hot water supply system operating condition at that time.
Further, in the above embodiment, the number of heating circulation systems 6a to 6d is four.
However, the number of heating circulation systems is not particularly limited as long as it is plural, and may be appropriately set according to the specifications.

Further, in the above embodiment, each heating circulation system 6
Although the water heaters a to 6d have been described by taking the gas-fired water heater (including an instantaneous water heater) as an example, the water heater 11 may be an oil-fired water heater.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, each water heater 11 burns by controlling the combustion by the combustion control circuit 15 for each water heater 11 based on various sensor information contained in each water heater 11. Although various sensor information is distributed and supplied to the system control circuit 16 for each water heater 11, two or more water heaters 11 operate as one set as shown in FIG. Various sensor information including the sensor and the hot water temperature sensor may be added to the system control circuit 16 from the sensor substrate 9.

Further, in the above embodiment, the sensor information is distributed and supplied from the sensor substrate 9 of the water heater 11 to the combustion control circuit 15 and the system control circuit 16 of the water heater 11, but as shown in FIG. The sensor information is distributed and supplied from the terminal 33 to the sensor board 9 and the system control circuit 16 as shown in (a) of the figure using a terminal capable of distributing a signal to a plurality of circuits or boards. 9 may be configured to add information to the combustion control circuit 15, and as shown in FIG. 7B, the system control circuit 16 and the combustion control circuit 15 may be connected from the terminal 33.
The sensor information may be distributed and supplied to and.

Further, in the above embodiment, the heating circulation system 6a is used.
6d and the hot water supply circulating pump 18 are unitized to form the heat source unit 34, but the heat source unit 34 is not necessarily used, and the hot water supply circulating pump 18 may be provided outside the heating circulation system 26 as in the conventional example. I do not care. Further, in the above-described embodiment, two hot water supply circulation pumps 18 are provided, and the hot water supply circulation pumps 18 are alternately operated at regular intervals, but the hot water supply circulation pump 18 may be one series. In the above embodiment, the hot water supply circulation line 17 is provided with the thermistors T ₅ and T ₆ , but the thermistor T is not always required.
_5, T ₆ need not be provided.

Further, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the sensor for measuring the flow rate of hot water is a flow sensor, but the flow rate measuring sensor may be another sensor such as an electromagnetic flow meter. Also,
Although the thermistor is used as the temperature detection sensor in the above embodiment, another temperature sensor such as a thermocouple may be used.

Further, in the above embodiment, the thermistor T ₁
Although the incoming water temperature sensor of the water heater 11 is used when performing the inspection, the outgoing water temperature sensor may be used instead of the incoming water temperature sensor.

Further, in the above embodiment, the thermistor T ₂
The water heater 11 was operated during the inspection of the above, but when all the water heaters 11 are stopped, the water heater 11 is not activated again and all the water heaters 11 are stopped. You can go.

Further, in the above embodiment, when the thermistor T ₁ which is the first temperature sensor is inspected, the combustion operation of the water heater 11 which is the heat source device is stopped, but it is performed by using the water temperature sensor. When inspecting the first temperature sensor,
It can also be performed while the heat source device is in operation.

[0063]

According to the present invention, when the first hot water temperature sensor is inspected, hot water is passed through the hot water circulating conduit without igniting the predetermined heat source device, and enters the heat source device. The temperature of the hot water is detected by the incoming water temperature sensor of the heat source device, the detected temperature of the incoming water temperature sensor is compared with the detected temperature of the first hot water temperature sensor, and when both detected temperatures match within a predetermined temperature range, the first Of the first hot water temperature sensor is judged to be normal, and when the two detected temperatures do not match within a predetermined temperature range, the second hot water temperature sensor is judged to be abnormal, and the first abnormal signal is output. When an abnormality occurs in the hot water temperature sensor, it is possible to quickly deal with the failure of the first hot water temperature sensor based on the first abnormality signal.

When the second hot water temperature sensor is inspected, a predetermined heat source device is operated, and the temperature of hot water discharged from the operated heat source device is detected by the hot water temperature sensor of the heat source device. The temperature of the hot water flowing through the hot water circulation pipe based on the detected temperature value and detected by the second hot water temperature sensor is estimated based on previously given data (various data such as tables, graphs and arithmetic expressions). , Comparing the estimated temperature and the temperature detected by the second hot water temperature sensor, and when the difference between the estimated temperature and the temperature detected by the second hot water temperature sensor is within a predetermined range, the second temperature
If the second hot water temperature sensor exceeds the predetermined range, the second hot water temperature sensor is judged to be abnormal, and the second abnormal signal is output. Therefore, the second hot water temperature sensor is abnormal. The second abnormal signal, the second
It is possible to quickly deal with the failure of the hot water temperature sensor.

As described above, according to the present invention, the first and second
Since it is possible to accurately determine whether the hot water temperature sensor of No. 1 is functioning normally and to take a corrective action at the time of failure based on the determination, together with the check of each heat source device of the hot water supply system, By performing the self-check of the second temperature sensor at regular intervals or at regular cycles, the safety and reliability of the hot water supply system can be ensured.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an embodiment of a large capacity hot water supply system having a function of performing a temperature sensor self-check method in a large capacity hot water supply system including a composite heat source according to the present invention.

2 is a thermistor T by the system control circuit 16 of FIG.
FIG. 3 is a block configuration diagram showing a circuit for performing a self check of ₁ and T ₂ .

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a self-check method for the thermistor T ₁ shown in FIG.

4 is a flowchart showing the substitute control of the other thermistor by the thermistor T ₁ failure when the system control circuit 16 of the large-capacity hot water supply system of FIG.

5 is a flowchart showing a method of self-checking the thermistor T ₂ of FIG. 1 and an example of coping with a failure of the thermistor T ₂ .

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a large capacity hot water supply system in which two water heaters 11 operate as one set and sensor information is added to the system control circuit 16 for each set of water heaters 11.

FIG. 7: Sensor information from the terminal 33 of the water heater 11 to the circuits 15 and 16
It is explanatory drawing which shows the example comprised so that it may distribute to the board | substrate 9.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory view showing a conventional large capacity hot water supply system.

9 is a thermistor T ₁ with the large capacity hot water supply system of FIG.
It is an explanatory view showing a large-capacity hot water supply system provided with a T _2.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 hot water storage tank 3 hot water circulation pipe 6a~6d heating circulation 9 sensor substrate 11 water heater 15 combustion control circuit 16 the system control circuit 17 hot water circulation pipe T ₁ through T ₆ Thermistor

Claims (2)

[Claims] 1. A plurality of heat source devices for producing hot water and a hot water storage tank for containing the hot water produced by these heat source devices are provided, and the hot water is supplied from the heat source device to the tank and the hot water in the hot water tank is kept warm. A hot water circulation pipe is provided between the hot water storage tank and the heat source device, each of the heat source devices is provided with a temperature sensor necessary for combustion control for producing hot water, and the hot water circulation pipe is provided with a heat source device from the hot water tank. First to detect the temperature of hot water entering
Is a method for self-checking for an abnormal state of the first hot water temperature sensor of a large capacity hot water supply system provided with the hot water temperature sensor of FIG. Pour hot water into the container,
When the temperature of the hot water entering the heat source device is detected by the temperature sensor of the heat source device and the detected temperature of the temperature sensor and the detected temperature of the first hot water temperature sensor are compared, when both detected temperatures match within a predetermined temperature range It is determined that the first hot water temperature sensor is normal, and when both detected temperatures do not match within the predetermined temperature range, it is determined that the first hot water temperature sensor is abnormal and the first abnormal signal is output. A method for self-checking a temperature sensor in a high-capacity hot water supply system equipped with a combined heat source, characterized in that 2. A plurality of heat source devices for producing hot water and a hot water storage tank for storing the hot water produced by these heat source devices are provided, and the hot water is supplied from the heat source device to the tank and the hot water in the hot water tank is kept warm. A hot water circulation pipe is provided between the hot water storage tank and the heat source device, and each of the heat source devices is provided with a temperature sensor necessary for combustion control for producing hot water, and the hot water is fed from the heat source device to the hot water storage tank. The second of the large capacity hot water supply system, which is provided with a second hot water temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the
Is a method for self-checking for an abnormal state of the hot water temperature sensor, wherein the temperature of the hot water discharged from the heat source device is detected by the temperature sensor of the heat source device when the second hot water temperature sensor is inspected, and this temperature is detected. Based on the value, the temperature of the hot water flowing through the hot water circulation pipe and detected by the second hot water temperature sensor is estimated based on previously given data, and the estimated temperature and the second
The estimated temperature by comparing the detected temperatures of the hot water temperature sensor of
If the difference from the temperature detected by the hot water temperature sensor is within a predetermined range, it is determined that the second hot water temperature sensor is normal, and if the difference exceeds the predetermined range, it is determined that the second hot water temperature sensor is abnormal. 2. A method for self-checking a temperature sensor in a large capacity hot water supply system including a composite heat source device, characterized in that the abnormal signal 2 is output.