WO2005057086A1 - Systeme d'alimentation en eau chaude - Google Patents

Systeme d'alimentation en eau chaude Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2005057086A1
WO2005057086A1 PCT/AU2004/001576 AU2004001576W WO2005057086A1 WO 2005057086 A1 WO2005057086 A1 WO 2005057086A1 AU 2004001576 W AU2004001576 W AU 2004001576W WO 2005057086 A1 WO2005057086 A1 WO 2005057086A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
hot water
water
circuit
heater
pump
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU2004/001576
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Masayoshi Takayama
Original Assignee
Rinnai Corporation
Rinnai Australia Pty Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from AU2003906902A external-priority patent/AU2003906902A0/en
Application filed by Rinnai Corporation, Rinnai Australia Pty Ltd filed Critical Rinnai Corporation
Priority to AU2004297288A priority Critical patent/AU2004297288A1/en
Publication of WO2005057086A1 publication Critical patent/WO2005057086A1/fr

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03C—DOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
    • E03C1/00—Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
    • E03C1/02—Plumbing installations for fresh water
    • E03C1/04—Water-basin installations specially adapted to wash-basins or baths
    • E03C1/044—Water-basin installations specially adapted to wash-basins or baths having a heating or cooling apparatus in the supply line
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
    • F24D17/00—Domestic hot-water supply systems
    • F24D17/0078—Recirculation systems
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
    • F24D19/00—Details
    • F24D19/10—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
    • F24D19/1006—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for water heating systems
    • F24D19/1051—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for water heating systems for domestic hot water
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
    • F24H15/00—Control of fluid heaters
    • F24H15/10—Control of fluid heaters characterised by the purpose of the control
    • F24H15/174—Supplying heated water with desired temperature or desired range of temperature
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
    • F24H15/00—Control of fluid heaters
    • F24H15/20—Control of fluid heaters characterised by control inputs
    • F24H15/212—Temperature of the water
    • F24H15/219—Temperature of the water after heating
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
    • F24H15/00—Control of fluid heaters
    • F24H15/20—Control of fluid heaters characterised by control inputs
    • F24H15/238—Flow rate
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
    • F24H15/00—Control of fluid heaters
    • F24H15/20—Control of fluid heaters characterised by control inputs
    • F24H15/265—Occupancy
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
    • F24H15/00—Control of fluid heaters
    • F24H15/20—Control of fluid heaters characterised by control inputs
    • F24H15/281—Input from user
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
    • F24H15/00—Control of fluid heaters
    • F24H15/30—Control of fluid heaters characterised by control outputs; characterised by the components to be controlled
    • F24H15/335—Control of pumps, e.g. on-off control
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
    • F24H15/00—Control of fluid heaters
    • F24H15/30—Control of fluid heaters characterised by control outputs; characterised by the components to be controlled
    • F24H15/355—Control of heat-generating means in heaters
    • F24H15/37—Control of heat-generating means in heaters of electric heaters
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
    • F24H15/00—Control of fluid heaters
    • F24H15/30—Control of fluid heaters characterised by control outputs; characterised by the components to be controlled
    • F24H15/395—Information to users, e.g. alarms
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
    • Y02B30/00—Energy efficient heating, ventilation or air conditioning [HVAC]
    • Y02B30/70—Efficient control or regulation technologies, e.g. for control of refrigerant flow, motor or heating

Definitions

  • This invention relates to a water supply system and, in particular, to a hot water supply system for supplying hot water in a domestic residence or commercial or industrial environment.
  • Hot water supply systems generally include a water heater of some description which heats water and then supplies the hot water through a hot water supply line to a plurality of hot water outlets.
  • the hot water outlets may be located in a kitchen, bathroom, laundry and the like. If hot water has not been used for some time, the hot water in the supply line can cool, and when it is next desired to use the hot water, it is generally necessary to turn on the hot water outlet and allow the cool water in the line to exit the line until hot water reaches the outlet from the water heater. Therefore, a significant amount of water is wasted whilst waiting for hot water to arrive at the outlet.
  • This problem is exacerbated in large residential dwellings where a significant distance may be present between the water heater and the outlets. The problem is even further exacerbated in commercial and industrial environments because the distance between the water heater and the outlets can be even greater.
  • the object of the invention is to provide a water supply system which overcomes this problem.
  • the invention provides a hot water supply system having a hot water line for supply of hot water to at least one hot water outlet, comprising: a hot water heater for heating water; a hot water supply circuit having said hot water heater and said hot water supply line; a pump for circulating water through the hot water supply circuit; means for activating the pump so that when water is circulated around the supply circuit the water heater heats the water in the supply circuit, and therefore the supply line, before the hot water outlet is opened; a temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the water in the circuit; and an indicator for providing to a user an indication that the temperature of the water is sufficiently high for substantially immediate supply of hot water to the hot water outlet upon opening of the hot water outlet.
  • the water in the hot water supply circuit, and therefore the hot water line is heated by circulating the water through the supply circuit and the heater so that when the indicator indicates the water has reached the sufficiently high temperature, a user knows that the hot water outlet can be opened and hot water will be immediately supplied. Thus, water is not wasted by the need to allow cold water to flow out of the hot water supply line until hot water arrives at the outlet.
  • the water heater comprises a primary water heater for the supply of hot water to the hot water supply line, the primary water heater having a cold water inlet for receiving cold water from a cold water supply, and wherein prior to the hot water outlet being opened, water is circulated only through the circuit and water heater to heat the water in the circuit and supply line, and wherein upon opening of the hot water outlet, water is drawn through the cold water inlet and through the heater and supplied into the hot water supply circuit as hot water so a continuous supply of hot water is supplied to the hot water outlet until the hot water outlet is closed.
  • the temperature sensor causes the pump to switch off after the water in the circuit reaches the sufficiently high temperature.
  • the system includes a control unit for receiving a signal from the temperature sensor indicative of the water temperature in the circuit, and wherein the control unit is for determining whether the signal represents the sufficiently high temperature and, if so, the control unit switches off the pump.
  • control unit maintains operation of the pump for a predetermine time period after receipt of the signal indicative of the predetermined temperature, so the water is continued to be circulated about the hot water supply circuit by the pump for that predetermined time period.
  • the circuit includes a flow sensor for monitoring flow of water through the circuit to provide an indication that the pump is operating.
  • the means for activating the pump comprises a controller for controlling the primary water heater which can be activated by a user, a switch for activation by the user, or a occupancy sensor for sensing the presence of a user in proximity to the hot water outlet.
  • the hot water heater comprises a secondary hot water heater provided in the circuit for heating water in the circuit prior to opening of the hot water outlet, the secondary hot water heater being activated by a primary water controller, a switch or a proximity sensor, and switched off after the temperature sensor senses the water in the hot water supply circuit has reached the sufficiently high temperature, and wherein the system still further includes a primary hot water heater for heating water and supplying water to the circuit when the hot water outlet is opened.
  • the secondary heater is provided in a water tank arranged in the circuit for heating water in the tank, and hence water in the circuit.
  • the indicator comprises a visual indicator.
  • other forms of indicators such as audible indicators or the like could be used.
  • the visual indicator comprises a light.
  • the visual indicator may operate in a number of ways in order to provide an indication that hot water is ready for delivery.
  • the visual indicator upon actuation of the means for activating the pump, can be illuminated until the temperature reaches the predetermined temperature, and then is switched off to thereby provide an indication that the user can now use the hot water.
  • the light can be illuminated only when the temperature reaches Jhe predetermined temperature, and will remain illuminated for a certain period of time, thereby indicative of the fact that hot water is ready for delivery.
  • the light can be continuously illuminated until the means for activating the pump is activated.
  • the light is illuminated and the water heater automatically switches on and off to maintain the water temperature at the required temperature for delivery.
  • This latter alternative enables a standby condition to be achieved whereby the water can be preheated before it is used and then be ready for delivery when required by the user.
  • the invention also provides a hot water supply system . having a hot water line for supply of hot water to at least one hot water outlet, comprising: a hot water supply circuit including said hot water supply line; a secondary heater in the circuit; a pump for pumping water through the circuit so that water circulating through the circuit is heated by the secondary heater; means for switching on said pump and said secondary heater for heating the water in the circuit, and therefore the hot water supply line prior to opening of the hot water outlet, so that upon opening of the hot water outlet, hot water is substantially immediately supplied to the hot water outlet; and a primary hot water heater having a cold water inlet branch for supply of cold water, and a hot water outlet branch connected to said circuit, so that upon opening of the hot water outlet, cold water is able to pass from the cold water branch through the primary heater for heating by the primary heater so that hot water is supplied from the hot water branch into the circuit to provide a continuous supply of hot water to the circuit and therefore the hot water outlet, until the hot water outlet is closed.
  • the water in the supply line is heated before the hot water tap is opened so that hot water is immediately supplied from the outlet.
  • water is not wasted by the need to have to turn the tap on and wait for cold water to drain out of the hot water line before hot water arrives from the heater.
  • the preheating of the circuit is performed by the secondary heater, but when the normal demand for hot water is required by way of opening the hot water outlet, the primary hot water heater heats cold water coming into the system to thereby provide the continuous supply of hot water until the outlet is turned off.
  • a temperature sensor is provided for sensing the temperature of water in the circuit so that after the temperature of the water reaches a predetermined temperature, the pump and secondary heater are switched off.
  • the system includes a control unit for receiving a signal from the temperature sensor indicative of the water temperature in the circuit, and wherein the control unit is for determining whether the signal represents a temperature at or above the predetermined temperature and, if so, the control unit switches off the pump.
  • the control unit maintains operation of the pump for a predetermine time period after receipt of the signal indicative of the predetermined temperature, so the water is continued to be circulated about the hot water supply circuit by the pump for that predetermined time period.
  • the circuit includes a flow sensor for monitoring flow of water through the circuit to provide an indication .that the pump is operating.
  • the means for switching on said pump and said secondary heater comprises a means for providing a signal indicative of the need for supply of hot water to the hot water outlet.
  • the signal providing means comprises a controller for controlling the primary water heater which is actuatable by a user, a switch for activation by the user, or a occupancy sensor for sensing the presence of a user in proximity to the hot water outlet.
  • the secondary heater is provided in a water tank arranged in the circuit for heating water in the tank, and hence water in the circuit.
  • the system includes an indicator for providing an indication, in response to the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor, that the water temperature has reached the predetermined temperature ready for substantially immediate supply from the hot water outlet.
  • the indicator comprises a light.
  • the invention also provides a hot water supply system having a hot water line for supply of hot water to at least one hot water outlet, comprising: an instantaneous water heater for instantaneously heating water upon opening of a hot water outlet to supply hot water from the outlet; a hot water supply circuit including said hot water supply line for receiving hot water from the heater; a cold water inlet for supplying cold water to the heater; a pump for circulating water through the circuit and the heater for heating water in the circuit, and therefore in the supply line, prior to opening of the hot water outlet; a temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the water in the circuit and for switching off the pump after the temperature reaches a predetermined temperature; and wherein when the hot water outlet is opened, hot water is substantially immediately supplied from the hot water outlet because of the preheating of the circuit, and the opening of the outlet causes water to be drawn from the circuit, which in turn causes water to be drawn into the heater through the cold water inlet to heat the water drawn through the cold water outlet for supply as hot water to the circuit and therefore to the hot water outlet
  • the water in the supply line is heated before the water tap is opened, thereby preventing the waste of water, because it is not necessary for cold water to drain from the circuit or supply line before hot water arrives at the outlet.
  • the system includes a control unit for receiving a signal indicative of the need for hot water and for switching on the pump to cause heating of water circulated through the circuit by the pump prior to opening of the hot water outlet.
  • the system includes a control unit for receiving a signal from the temperature sensor indicative of the water temperature in the circuit, and wherein the control unit is for determining whether the signal represents a temperature at or above the predetermined temperature and, if so, the control unit switches off the pump.
  • control unit maintains operation of the pump for a predetermine time period after receipt of the signal indicative of the predetermined temperature, so the water is continued to be circulated about the hot water supply circuit by the pump for that predetermined time period.
  • the system includes a means for providing a signal indicative of the need for hot water at the hot water outlet, said signal being supplied to said control unit to activate the pump and the heater.
  • control unit is for providing a hot water ready signal when the temperature of the water sensed by the temperature sensor reaches the predetermined temperature, to thereby indicate to a user that hot water is ready for supply from the hot water outlet.
  • the signal is for activating a light emitting diode which is illuminated when the water temperature reaches the predetermined temperature.
  • the signal providing means comprises a controller for controlling the heater, which controller is operable by a user when hot water is required, a switch for activation by the user when hot water is required, or an occupancy sensor for sensing the presence of a user in proximity to the hot water outlet.
  • the flow sensor is for providing an output signal to the control unit to provide an indication that flow of water through the circuit and heater is taking place so that the unit can switch on the heater, and whereupon if the flow sensor indicates that there is no flow of water through the circuit and the heater, the control unit prevents the heater from being switched on.
  • control unit comprises a first control section which forms part of the instantaneous water heater, and a second control section associated with the pump and the temperature sensor, the first and second control sections being connected by a communication line, and wherein the signal providing means is connected to the second control section so the second control section operates the pump upon receipt of the signal to circulate water through the circuit and the instantaneous heater, and whereupon the circulation of the water activates the instantaneous water heater to heat the water circulating in the circuit.
  • the signal providing means is provided in a controller for controlling operation of the instantaneous water heater, and whereupon control signals for operation of the instantaneous water heater are supplied from the controller to the second control section, and from the section control section to the first control section via the communication line to control the operation of the instantaneous water heater in accordance with user input commands.
  • a flow sensor may be provided in the circuit for sensing flow of water through the circuit and for providing a signal to the second control section to indicate that the pump is operational.
  • the second control section is for supplying an error signal if the pump is switched on in response to the signal providing means and the flow sensor does not provide a signal to the second control unit indicative of flow of water through the circuit.
  • Figure 1 is a diagram showing a first embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 2 is a diagram showing a second embodiment of the invention.
  • a water supply system which has a primary water heater 10 which is preferably an instantaneous water heater such as that sold by Rinnai Australia under the registered trade mark INFINITY.
  • the water supply system has a cold water supply line 12 which supplies cold water from a cold water supply such as mains 13, a water tank or the like.
  • the supply line 12 has a plurality of cold water outlets 14 (only one shown) such as taps or the like, which may be provided around a premises such as in a kitchen, bathroom, laundry or the like.
  • the cold water supply line 12 also has a cold water inlet branch 15 for supplying cold water to the primary hot water heater 10.
  • the water heater 10 is provided with a flow sensor (not shown) which forms an integral part of the heater 10 for detecting flow of water through the heater from the cold water inlet 15.
  • a flow sensor (not shown) which forms an integral part of the heater 10 for detecting flow of water through the heater from the cold water inlet 15.
  • the heater 10 also has its own control unit 30 which controls operation of the heater 10 to activate the heater so as to heat water in response to the flow of water through the heater, and also to control the heater 10 in accordance with user input commands provided from a controller 32.
  • the controller 32 can typically switch on and off the heater 10 and also set the temperature of water a user requires.
  • the heater 10 has a hot water outlet branch 16 which supplies hot water to a hot water supply circuit 18.
  • the circuit 18 includes a hot water supply line 19 which has a plurality of hot water outlets such as taps or shower roses for supply of hot water to the premises.
  • the circuit 18 reconnects with the primary water heater 10 so as to provide a continuous circuit through the primary heater 10.
  • the circuit 18 also includes a pump 22 for pumping water about the circuit 18 and through the heater 10, a temperature sensor 24 for monitoring the temperature of the water in the circuit 18.
  • a flow sensor 26 may also be provided for determining that there is flow through the circuit 18.
  • the controller 32 may include an additional preheating switch 35 which is pressed by a user when a user enters a room and requires hot water. As will be explained below, this will cause the water in the circuit 18 to be heated so that as soon as an outlet 20 is opened, hot water is immediately supplied, and it is not necessary for the user to wait until cold water drains out of the supply line 19 and is replaced by hot water from the heater 10, and therefore water is not wasted whilst waiting for hot water to arrive at the outlet 20.
  • an additional preheating switch 35 which is pressed by a user when a user enters a room and requires hot water. As will be explained below, this will cause the water in the circuit 18 to be heated so that as soon as an outlet 20 is opened, hot water is immediately supplied, and it is not necessary for the user to wait until cold water drains out of the supply line 19 and is replaced by hot water from the heater 10, and therefore water is not wasted whilst waiting for hot water to arrive at the outlet 20.
  • a separate switch or button 37 could be provided, or alternatively a proximity sensor 38 could be provided which senses the arrival of a user into a room or in proximity to an outlet 20, thereby immediately causing the water in the line 19 to be heated to the required temperature before opening of the outlet 20.
  • either the controller 32, the switch 37 or the proximity sensor 38 can be used as a device to provide an indication of the need for hot water from one of the outlets 20 and to initiate preheating of the water in the circuit 19 so that when the user opens the outlet 20, hot water is immediately supplied.
  • the switch 37 or the sensor 38 When either the controller 32, the switch 37 or the sensor 38 receives an indication of a requirement for hot water, such as by a user pressing the switch 37 or the button 35 on the controller 32, or just arriving in proximity to the tap 20 as sensed by the sensor 38, a signal is output on line 33 to a second control unit 40 of a pre-heating device 41.
  • the second control unit 40 is connected by a line 39 to the first control unit 30 of the heater 10.
  • the second control unit 40 When the second control unit 40 receives a signal on line 33 indicative of the requirement for hot water, the second control unit 40 activates the pump 22 so that water is pumped about the circuit 18 through the heater 10.
  • the control unit 30 in the heater 10 also activates the heater 10 in response to the flow of water through the heater, so that the heater operates to heat the hot water which circulates through the line 18 and the heater 10.
  • the flow sensor 26 may be provided to measure flow of water through the circuit 18 and provides a signal to the control unit 40 indicative of the fact that the pump 22 is therefore operating.
  • the second control unit 40 may supply a signal to indicate an error condition.
  • the error signal is provided from the second control unit 40 on line 33 back to controller 32 so that an error message can be displayed indicating that the system has malfunctioned and may require maintenance.
  • the error signal could be displayed on a display attached to the second control unit 40 or be output on a separate line (not shown) to a different remote display.
  • the temperature sensor 24 monitors the temperature of the water in the circuit 18, and supplies a signal to the control unit 40 indicative of the temperature of the water.
  • the control unit 40 then switches off the pump 22 when the signal from sensor 24 indicates the water temperature has reached the predetermined required temperature.
  • the pump 22 is switched off, the flow of water in the circuit 18 stops and therefore, the heater 10 detects that there is no flow of water and the first control unit 30 switches off the heater 10.
  • a signal is supplied on line 33 to light emitting diode 45 so the light emitting diode 45 is illuminated to show that the water temperature in the supply line 19 is at the predetermined hot level ready for immediate use from one of the outlets 20.
  • the light emitting diode 45 may be located in any convenient place, such as in proximity to one of the outlets 20 so it can be viewed by a user, or on the switch 37 or controller 32.
  • the user knows that the outlet 20 can be turned on and hot water will be supplied. As soon as the outlet 20 is turned on, water begins to flow from the outlet 20 from the circuit 18 and this causes water to be drawn into the hot water heater 10 from the cold water branch 15, so cold water flows into the heater 10.
  • the control unit 30 of the heater 10 determines that flow of water is passing through the heater, and therefore activates the heater so that the cold water is heated by the heater 10 and then flows from the hot water branch 16 into the circuit 18 for continuous supply of hot water to the opened outlet 20.
  • the availability of hot water ready for immediate supply can be signalled to a user in different ways to that described above.
  • a standby mode is provided whereby, after the user activates the pump 22 by switching the switch 37 or the controller 32 or being sensed by the proximity sensor 38, the pump is switched on and the unit 40 outputs a signal on line 33 to illuminate the light emitting diode 45 to show that the system is in the preheat mode.
  • the heater 10 can be switched off and then automatically again switched on if the temperature in the circuit 19 drops below the predetermined temperature, so that the predetermined temperature of the water 19 is always maintained in the loop, thereby providing the standby mode.
  • the light emitting diode 45 remains illuminated for the entire period the system is in this mode.
  • the user can again press the switch 37 or switch on the controller 32 or another switch (not shown) associated with the proximity sensor 38 to show that standby mode is no longer required. Light emitting diode 45 will then be extinguished.
  • the unit 40 immediately outputs a signal on line 33 to illuminate the light emitting diode 45 to show that the system is in the preheat mode.
  • the control unit 40 switches off the light emitting diode 45, thereby indicating to the user that the system is ready to deliver hot water.
  • the light emitting diode is illuminated after the switch 37, or the controller 32 or the proximity sensor 38 is activated, and remains illuminated for a predetermined time period after the temperature sensor 24 detects that the temperature in the circuit 19 has reached the predetermined temperature. In the latter two embodiments, when the light emitting diode switches off, this provides the signal to the user that the hot water is available for supply from one of the outlets 20.
  • a flashing mode of the light emitting diode can be used to show that the system is in the preheat mode and the water is being heated, and either a continuous illumination or complete switching off of the light emitting diode used to indicate that the water is ready for delivery at the predetermined temperature.
  • cold water is supplied from the branch 15 simply by mains pressure.
  • a pump (not shown) can be used to facilitate supply of cold water through the branch 15 to the heater 10. It will be apparent from the above description that hot water only ever circulates through the circuit 18 and never is supplied through the cold water supply line 12. Thus, it is not necessary to interfere with the plumbing of the cold water supply line 12, nor to be concerned that hot water has been provided into the cold water line. Thus, when one of the cold water outlets 14 is opened, fresh cold water is always supplied without any fear of contamination from water which has been heated in the hot water circuit 18.
  • FIG. 2 shows a second embodiment of the invention in which like reference numerals indicate like parts to those previously described.
  • a secondary water heater 50 is provided which is most preferably in the form of an electrical heating element provided in a relatively small tank 52.
  • the circuit 18 in this embodiment includes the tank 52 and the heater 50, but the primary water heater 10 is external of the circuit 18 and connected to the circuit 18 by the hot water outlet branch 16.
  • the primary hot water heater 10 when water is circulating through the circuit 18 for preheating, the water does not pass through the primary hot water heater 10.
  • This embodiment operates in substantially the same way as the previous embodiment, in that when the signal is received on line 33, indicating the requirement for hot water, the second control unit 40 operates the pump 22 to pump water through the circuit 18, and also activates the heater 50.
  • the water passes through the tank 52 having the heater 50 and is heated by the heater 50 to thereby preheat the water in the circuit 18 and hot water supply line 19.
  • the sensor 24 supplies a signal to the unit 40 indicative of the temperature of the water, and when the temperature reaches the predetermined temperature, the unit 40 switches off both the pump 22 and the heating element 50.
  • the light emitting diode is illuminated as in the earlier embodiment to show that hot water is ready for supply from one of the outlets 20.
  • the pump 22 is switched off as soon as the signal from the temperature sensor 24 indicates that the temperature of the water in the circuit 18 has reached the predetermined temperature.
  • the second control unit 40 may be programmed so that the pump 22 is maintained operating for a short period, such as 5-10 seconds after the temperature reaches the predetermined temperature. This therefore maintains circulation of water about the circuit 18 after the temperature reaches the predetermined level, so that when the hot water outlet is opened and cold water is drawn through the inlet 15 into the heater 10, the circulation of the hot water about the circuit 18 will mix with any plug of cold water which passes through the heater at the point A in Figures 1 and 2. The mixing of any plug of cold water and the hot water at point A warms the plug of cold water. Thus, this reduces the likelihood of a small volume of cold water exiting the hot water outlet 20 a short time after the outlet 20 is turned on in response to illumination of the light emitting diode 45.
  • the second control unit 40 may be provided with dip switches (not shown) which can be operated by an installer to set the predetermined temperature which is to be achieved in the circuit 18 by the preheating before the light emitting diode 45 is illuminated to indicate that hot water is ready for delivery at the outlet 20. Furtherstill, the dip switches may be set so as to respond to the temperature which is set by a user at the controller 32 if the controller 32 is used, so that the predetermined temperature in the circuit 18 will be the temperature selected by the user by input into the controller 32.
  • the temperature sensed by the temperature 24 can be used to cause shut off of the element 52 at a predetermined high temperature level to ensure that there is no attempt to overheat the water in the circuit 18 beyond a safe level.
  • the temperature sensor 24 which supplies a signal indicative of the temperature of the water in the circuit 18 may supply a continuous signal indicative of water temperature, and the control unit 40 can monitor that signal so that when the signal equates to a reference signal indicative of the predetermined temperature, the control unit 40 recognises that the predetermined temperature has been reached.
  • the sensor 24 may simply supply a signal 24 only when the predetermined temperature is reached, so that when any signal is received from the sensor 24, the unit 40 recognises that the water temperature has reached the predetermined temperature.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
  • Domestic Hot-Water Supply Systems And Details Of Heating Systems (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un système d'alimentation en eau permettant la fourniture instantanée d'eau chaude. Ce système comprend un chauffe-eau (10, 52) et un circuit (18) d'alimentation en eau chaude permettant d'alimenter des sorties (20) de distribution d'eau. Une pompe (22) fait circuler l'eau à travers le circuit (18) et le chauffe-eau (10, 52) de telle manière que l'eau présente dans le circuit est chauffée avant l'ouverture d'une des sorties (20). Un capteur thermique (24) mesure la température dans le circuit (18) et une lumière (45) indique à quel moment l'eau du circuit atteint la température requise, de manière à permettre la fourniture instantanée d'eau chaude à la sortie (20).
PCT/AU2004/001576 2003-12-12 2004-11-15 Systeme d'alimentation en eau chaude WO2005057086A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2004297288A AU2004297288A1 (en) 2003-12-12 2004-11-15 Hot water supply system

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2003906902 2003-12-12
AU2003906902A AU2003906902A0 (en) 2003-12-12 Water supply system
US52989803P 2003-12-16 2003-12-16
US60/529,898 2003-12-16

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2005057086A1 true WO2005057086A1 (fr) 2005-06-23

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PCT/AU2004/001576 WO2005057086A1 (fr) 2003-12-12 2004-11-15 Systeme d'alimentation en eau chaude

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WO (1) WO2005057086A1 (fr)

Cited By (28)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1850202A1 (fr) * 2006-04-03 2007-10-31 Griferías Grober S.L. Système de gestion d'économie d'eau intelligent
ES2298039A1 (es) * 2006-05-29 2008-05-01 Jose Vera Garcia Sistema ahorrador de agua y energia.
WO2009039934A1 (fr) * 2007-09-20 2009-04-02 Grundfos Management A/S Procédé de surveillance d'un système de conversion d'énergie
ES2317717A1 (es) * 2005-06-24 2009-04-16 Universidad De Malaga Dispositivo economizador de suministro de aguas en circuito caliente.
CH698604B1 (de) * 2005-11-29 2009-09-15 Creaholic Sa Wascheinrichtung.
ES2344822A1 (es) * 2008-06-13 2010-09-07 Julian Garcia De Lomana Ortiz Sistema de ahorro de agua y combustible en el calentamiento de agua.
ES2353414A1 (es) * 2007-11-19 2011-03-02 Oscar Soldado Vida Dispositivo de recirculación de agua caliente sanitaria.
US8028355B2 (en) 2005-11-11 2011-10-04 Masco Corporation Of Indiana Integrated bathroom electronic system
US8438672B2 (en) 2005-11-11 2013-05-14 Masco Corporation Of Indiana Integrated electronic shower system
CN103352491A (zh) * 2013-06-14 2013-10-16 张�雄 供水系统压力同步跟踪控制系统
US8844564B2 (en) 2006-12-19 2014-09-30 Masco Corporation Of Indiana Multi-mode hands free automatic faucet
US8944105B2 (en) 2007-01-31 2015-02-03 Masco Corporation Of Indiana Capacitive sensing apparatus and method for faucets
US9175458B2 (en) 2012-04-20 2015-11-03 Delta Faucet Company Faucet including a pullout wand with a capacitive sensing
CN105157100A (zh) * 2015-08-16 2015-12-16 麻城市人民医院 一种用于洗婴室的供水装置
US9228329B2 (en) 2006-04-20 2016-01-05 Delta Faucet Company Pull-out wand
US9243392B2 (en) 2006-12-19 2016-01-26 Delta Faucet Company Resistive coupling for an automatic faucet
US9243756B2 (en) 2006-04-20 2016-01-26 Delta Faucet Company Capacitive user interface for a faucet and method of forming
US9285807B2 (en) 2006-04-20 2016-03-15 Delta Faucet Company Electronic user interface for electronic mixing of water for residential faucets
US9315976B2 (en) 2007-12-11 2016-04-19 Delta Faucet Company Capacitive coupling arrangement for a faucet
US9394675B2 (en) 2010-04-20 2016-07-19 Delta Faucet Company Capacitive sensing system and method for operating a faucet
GR20160100161A (el) * 2016-04-04 2017-11-30 Νικολαος Γεωργιος Ζαφειρακης Συστημα ταχειας παροχης ζεστου νερου
WO2018149624A1 (fr) * 2017-02-14 2018-08-23 Franke Water Systems Ag Dispositif de distribution d'eau chaude
IT201800006559A1 (it) * 2018-06-21 2019-12-21 Impianto migliorato di produzione istantanea di acqua calda ad uso sanitario
WO2022168043A1 (fr) * 2021-02-07 2022-08-11 Octopus Energy Group Limited Procédés, systèmes et appareil pour permettre une consommation d'énergie et d'eau réduite
GB2608872A (en) * 2021-10-27 2023-01-18 Digital Heat Ltd Electric fluid heater
GB2605005B (en) * 2021-02-07 2023-07-12 Octopus Energy Heating Ltd Methods and systems and apparatus to support reduced energy and water usage
GB2606037B (en) * 2021-02-07 2023-07-12 Octopus Energy Heating Ltd Methods and systems and apparatus to support reduced energy and water usage
GB2625438A (en) * 2022-11-11 2024-06-19 Kyungdong Navien Co Ltd Hot water supply apparatus and method of controlling the same

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DE10035184A1 (de) * 2000-07-20 2002-01-31 Kueppers Markus Gerät für einen Zirkulationsanschluss

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
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US9243391B2 (en) 2004-01-12 2016-01-26 Delta Faucet Company Multi-mode hands free automatic faucet
ES2317717A1 (es) * 2005-06-24 2009-04-16 Universidad De Malaga Dispositivo economizador de suministro de aguas en circuito caliente.
US8438672B2 (en) 2005-11-11 2013-05-14 Masco Corporation Of Indiana Integrated electronic shower system
US10480165B2 (en) 2005-11-11 2019-11-19 Delta Faucet Company Integrated bathroom electronic system
US9988797B2 (en) 2005-11-11 2018-06-05 Delta Faucet Company Integrated electronic shower system
US8028355B2 (en) 2005-11-11 2011-10-04 Masco Corporation Of Indiana Integrated bathroom electronic system
US9032564B2 (en) 2005-11-11 2015-05-19 Delta Faucet Company Integrated electronic shower system
US11566405B2 (en) 2005-11-11 2023-01-31 Delta Faucet Company Integrated bathroom electronic system
US9303394B2 (en) 2005-11-29 2016-04-05 Creaholic S.A. Washing device
CH698604B1 (de) * 2005-11-29 2009-09-15 Creaholic Sa Wascheinrichtung.
US8458826B2 (en) 2005-11-29 2013-06-11 Creaholic S.A. Washing device
ES2299337A1 (es) * 2006-04-03 2008-05-16 Griferias Grober, S.L. Sistema de gestion inteligente de ahorro de agua.
EP1850202A1 (fr) * 2006-04-03 2007-10-31 Griferías Grober S.L. Système de gestion d'économie d'eau intelligent
US9243756B2 (en) 2006-04-20 2016-01-26 Delta Faucet Company Capacitive user interface for a faucet and method of forming
US9285807B2 (en) 2006-04-20 2016-03-15 Delta Faucet Company Electronic user interface for electronic mixing of water for residential faucets
US11886208B2 (en) 2006-04-20 2024-01-30 Delta Faucet Company Electronic user interface for electronic mixing of water for residential faucets
US9856634B2 (en) 2006-04-20 2018-01-02 Delta Faucet Company Fluid delivery device with an in-water capacitive sensor
US10698429B2 (en) 2006-04-20 2020-06-30 Delta Faucet Company Electronic user interface for electronic mixing of water for residential faucets
US9228329B2 (en) 2006-04-20 2016-01-05 Delta Faucet Company Pull-out wand
US9715238B2 (en) 2006-04-20 2017-07-25 Delta Faucet Company Electronic user interface for electronic mixing of water for residential faucets
ES2298039A1 (es) * 2006-05-29 2008-05-01 Jose Vera Garcia Sistema ahorrador de agua y energia.
US9243392B2 (en) 2006-12-19 2016-01-26 Delta Faucet Company Resistive coupling for an automatic faucet
US8844564B2 (en) 2006-12-19 2014-09-30 Masco Corporation Of Indiana Multi-mode hands free automatic faucet
US8944105B2 (en) 2007-01-31 2015-02-03 Masco Corporation Of Indiana Capacitive sensing apparatus and method for faucets
WO2009039934A1 (fr) * 2007-09-20 2009-04-02 Grundfos Management A/S Procédé de surveillance d'un système de conversion d'énergie
ES2353414A1 (es) * 2007-11-19 2011-03-02 Oscar Soldado Vida Dispositivo de recirculación de agua caliente sanitaria.
US9315976B2 (en) 2007-12-11 2016-04-19 Delta Faucet Company Capacitive coupling arrangement for a faucet
ES2344822A1 (es) * 2008-06-13 2010-09-07 Julian Garcia De Lomana Ortiz Sistema de ahorro de agua y combustible en el calentamiento de agua.
US9394675B2 (en) 2010-04-20 2016-07-19 Delta Faucet Company Capacitive sensing system and method for operating a faucet
US9175458B2 (en) 2012-04-20 2015-11-03 Delta Faucet Company Faucet including a pullout wand with a capacitive sensing
CN103352491A (zh) * 2013-06-14 2013-10-16 张�雄 供水系统压力同步跟踪控制系统
CN103352491B (zh) * 2013-06-14 2015-06-10 张�雄 供水系统压力同步跟踪控制系统
CN105157100A (zh) * 2015-08-16 2015-12-16 麻城市人民医院 一种用于洗婴室的供水装置
GR20160100161A (el) * 2016-04-04 2017-11-30 Νικολαος Γεωργιος Ζαφειρακης Συστημα ταχειας παροχης ζεστου νερου
WO2018149624A1 (fr) * 2017-02-14 2018-08-23 Franke Water Systems Ag Dispositif de distribution d'eau chaude
US11332912B2 (en) 2017-02-14 2022-05-17 Kwc Ag Device for dispensing hot water
CN110291258A (zh) * 2017-02-14 2019-09-27 弗兰卡水系统股份公司 用于分配热水的装置
IT201800006559A1 (it) * 2018-06-21 2019-12-21 Impianto migliorato di produzione istantanea di acqua calda ad uso sanitario
GB2605005B (en) * 2021-02-07 2023-07-12 Octopus Energy Heating Ltd Methods and systems and apparatus to support reduced energy and water usage
GB2606037B (en) * 2021-02-07 2023-07-12 Octopus Energy Heating Ltd Methods and systems and apparatus to support reduced energy and water usage
WO2022168043A1 (fr) * 2021-02-07 2022-08-11 Octopus Energy Group Limited Procédés, systèmes et appareil pour permettre une consommation d'énergie et d'eau réduite
WO2023073357A1 (fr) * 2021-10-27 2023-05-04 Digital Heat Ltd Dispositif électrique de chauffage de fluide
GB2608872A (en) * 2021-10-27 2023-01-18 Digital Heat Ltd Electric fluid heater
GB2608872B (en) * 2021-10-27 2023-07-12 Digital Heat Ltd Electric fluid heater
GB2625438A (en) * 2022-11-11 2024-06-19 Kyungdong Navien Co Ltd Hot water supply apparatus and method of controlling the same

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