WO2017090151A1

WO2017090151A1 - Water heater control system, control method, and program

Info

Publication number: WO2017090151A1
Application number: PCT/JP2015/083223
Authority: WO
Inventors: 雄喜小川; 矢部　正明; 正之小松; 聡司峯澤; 隆司新井; 智赤木; 淳子貴島; 晶代大野; 正樹豊島; 啓輔 ▲高▼山; 赳弘古谷野
Original assignee: 三菱電機株式会社
Priority date: 2015-11-26
Filing date: 2015-11-26
Publication date: 2017-06-01
Also published as: JP6580159B2; JPWO2017090151A1

Abstract

A water heater control system (100) controls a water heater (20) that produces hot water using power supplied from a commercial power system and/or a distributed power source (30) that supplies power to the commercial power system. The water heater control system (100) is provided with: an instruction acquisition unit (11) that acquires an instruction to inhibit the supply of power from the distributed power source (30) to the commercial power system at a first time; and a control unit (21) that causes the water heater (20) to produce hot water of a first temperature at a second time that is different than the first time, and, if an instruction is acquired by the instruction acquisition unit (11), causes the water heater (20) to produce hot water of a second temperature, which is higher than the first temperature, at the first time.

Description

Water heater control system, control method and program

The present invention relates to a water heater control system, a control method, and a program.

In recent years, technology utilizing natural energy has attracted attention, and there are many cases where distributed power sources that generate power using natural energy represented by sunlight and wind power are installed in consumers. Such a consumer consumes the electric power generated by the distributed power source or supplies it to a commercial power system and sells it to an electric utility. Thereby, a consumer can reduce the electric power purchased from a commercial power grid, and can obtain an economic profit.

Demand and supply balance of the commercial power system may be disrupted due to reverse power flow from the customer to the commercial power system. For example, on a sunny holiday, the demand is greatly reduced, and the amount of power generated by sunlight is increased to increase the supply amount.

Therefore, in order to maintain the supply and demand balance of the commercial power system, the establishment of a system is in progress for an electric power company to specify the time in advance for consumers to specify the suppression of reverse power flow. For example, in 2014, Japan's Agency for Natural Resources and Energy announced an output control rule for photovoltaic power generation. This output control rule adjusts the power generation amount of the distributed power source to suppress the power sale to the commercial power system.

In addition, a technique for reducing the reverse power flow by consuming the generated power as much as possible by a consumer has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 describes a technique for operating a hot water supply / heating device including a hot water storage tank in an operation time period including a time period in which the amount of reverse power flow is maximized. Since the power consumption of a hot water supply apparatus including a hot water storage tank is generally large, the technique described in Patent Document 1 can effectively reduce the amount of reverse power flow.

International Publication No. 2012/090365

However, since the technique described in Patent Document 1 does not reduce the reverse power flow in response to the instruction for suppressing the reverse power flow as described above, it does not necessarily improve the supply and demand balance of the commercial power system. In addition, the technique described in Patent Document 1 stores heat up to the vicinity of the maximum capacity of the hot water storage tank by the time zone in order to generate the amount of heat required thereafter during the time zone when the amount of reverse power flow increases. In this case, the electric power consumed by operating the hot water heater is small, and the amount of decrease in reverse power flow is small. In this case, if it is instructed to suppress the reverse power flow, it is necessary to limit the generated power, and there is a possibility that the power generation capability of the distributed power source cannot be fully utilized. As a result, the technique described in Patent Document 1 has room for improving the power use efficiency.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and aims to improve the power utilization efficiency.

In order to achieve the above object, a water heater control system of the present invention controls a water heater that generates hot water using electric power supplied from at least one of a commercial power system and a distributed power source that supplies power to the commercial power system. An hot water heater control system, wherein an instruction acquisition means for acquiring an instruction to suppress power supply from a distributed power source to a commercial power system in a first time, and hot water supply at a second time different from the first time Control means for causing the water heater to generate hot water at a first temperature and causing the water heater to generate hot water at a second temperature higher than the first temperature at a first time when an instruction is acquired by the instruction acquisition means. .

According to the present invention, when hot water having the first temperature is generated at the second time and the instruction is acquired by the instruction acquisition means, the first temperature higher than the first temperature is specified at the first time specified by the instruction. Two temperature hot water is produced. Thereby, while increasing the power consumption in 1st time and utilizing the power generation capability of a distributed power supply, the hot water with little influence of heat dissipation can be produced | generated. As a result, the utilization efficiency of electric power can be improved.

It is a figure which shows the structure of the water heater control system which concerns on Embodiment 1. FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the control instruction | indication which suppresses reverse power. It is a figure which shows an example of the generated electric power restrict | limited by a power conditioner. It is a figure which shows the hardware constitutions of a control apparatus, the control part of a water heater, a measuring device, and a data server. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of a water heater control system. It is a schematic diagram which shows shifting boiling operation from night to daytime. It is a figure which shows the example of transition of the amount of hot water by boiling operation. It is a figure which shows an example of the temperature distribution in a hot water storage tank. It is a flowchart which shows a power generation suppression process. It is a sequence diagram which shows the outline | summary of the communication performed between a control apparatus and a water heater. It is a sequence diagram which shows the outline | summary of the process performed by night. It is a flowchart which shows a surplus electric power prediction process. It is a figure which shows an example of the predicted value of surplus electric power. It is a 1st flowchart which shows a daytime boiling determination process. It is a figure for demonstrating the value set to a boiling permission flag. It is a 1st figure for demonstrating the relationship between generated electric power and an economic effect. It is a 2nd figure for demonstrating the relationship between generated electric power and an economic effect. It is a 3rd figure for demonstrating the relationship between generated electric power and an economic effect. It is a figure for demonstrating the series of a boiling permission flag. It is a 2nd flowchart which shows a daytime boiling determination process. It is a flowchart which shows a high temperature boiling determination process. It is a 1st flowchart which shows a plan process. It is a figure for demonstrating the plan of the amount of hot water. It is a 2nd flowchart which shows a plan process. It is a flowchart which shows a prediction correction process. It is a sequence diagram which shows the outline | summary of the process performed in the daytime. It is a flowchart which shows a power purchase price determination process. It is a flowchart which shows a power sale price determination process. It is a figure which shows the structure of the water heater control system which concerns on Embodiment 2. FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the water heater control system which concerns on Embodiment 2. FIG. It is a figure which shows the structure of the water heater control system which concerns on Embodiment 3. FIG. It is a figure which shows the structure of the water heater control system which concerns on Embodiment 4. FIG. It is a figure which shows the structure of the water heater control system which concerns on Embodiment 5. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an object apparatus selection process.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
FIG. 1 shows the configuration of water heater control system 100 according to the first embodiment. The water heater control system 100 is a HEMS (Home Energy Management System) for efficiently using electric power by controlling the water heater 20 installed in the house HM. As shown in FIG. 1, the water heater control system 100 includes a control device 10 that controls the water heater 20, a water heater 20 that supplies and stores hot water generated by heating water in a tank, and a dispersion that generates power by sunlight. Connected to the control device 10 via the power source 30, the measuring device 40 that measures the power generated by the distributed power source 30 and the power consumed by the house HM, the electric device 50 that consumes the power, and the wide area network NW 1 The power server 60 and the data server 70 are provided. Note that the control device 10, the water heater 20, the distributed power source 30, the measuring device 40, and the electric device 50 are all installed in the house HM. Further, a thick solid line connected to the commercial power system PS in FIG. 1 represents a power line, and a thin broken line represents a communication line (signal line).

The control device 10 is a HEMS controller that can integrally control devices in the house HM. The control apparatus 10 monitors the operation state of the water heater 20 and the electric device 50 by periodically acquiring the operation state from the water heater 20 and the electric device 50. And the control apparatus 10 changes the driving | running state of the water heater 20 and the electric equipment 50 by transmitting a control command, and controls the water heater 20 and the electric equipment 50.

Further, the control device 10 periodically acquires the power measurement result from the measurement device 40, and provides the acquired measurement result to the distributed power source 30 and the data server 70. Furthermore, the control device 10 includes an instruction acquisition unit 11 that acquires an instruction from the power server 60. The instruction acquisition unit 11 acquires an instruction for suppressing the supply of power from the distributed power supply 30 to the commercial power system PS at a specific time from the power server 60 and transfers the instruction to the distributed power supply 30. Hereinafter, the instruction from the power server 60 is referred to as a suppression instruction. The specific time specified by the suppression instruction is usually a time when the power generated by the distributed power source 30 becomes excessive with respect to the supply and demand situation of the commercial power system PS.

The suppression instruction specifies a limit value of generated power when power is supplied from the distributed power supply 30 to the commercial power system PS at a specific time. FIG. 2 shows a specific example of the suppression instruction. In the example shown in FIG. 2, it is specified that the power generation amount from 0:00 to 9:00 is 100% of the rated power of the distributed power source 30. In addition, it is specified that the power generation amount from 9:00 to 11:00 is 40% of the rated power of the distributed power source 30. In the suppression instruction illustrated in FIG. 2, the limit value is specified by the ratio with respect to the rated power of the distributed power source 30, but the limit value of the generated power may be specified in units of kW.

Note that a line La indicated by a solid line in FIG. 2 represents a transition of generated power that can be output by the distributed power supply 30, and a line Lp represented by a broken line represents a transition of a limit value specified by the suppression instruction. In the present embodiment, the time during which generated power is limited by the suppression instruction is simply referred to as daytime. However, since the generated power is not substantially limited at the limit value of 100%, the daytime in the example of FIG. 2 means from 9:00 to 15:00.

Referring back to FIG. 1, the water heater 20 is a heat pump type electric water heater. The water heater 20 supplies the hot water generated by heating the water supplied from the water supply to the hot water storage tank 24 (see FIG. 5), and discharges the hot water used by the residents of the house HM from the hot water storage tank 24. Usually, the water heater 20 boils the amount of hot water necessary for one day at night when the electricity rate is low, and boils hot water only at times other than the night when the amount of hot water is insufficient. The boiling of hot water means that hot water is generated and supplied to the hot water storage tank 24. The temperature of hot water generated by the water heater 20 at night is about 60 ° C.

The water heater 20 has a control unit 21 that controls a heat pump unit 23 (see FIG. 5) included in the water heater 20. The function of the control unit 21 will be described later.

The distributed power source 30 is a power generator installed on the roof of the house HM. The distributed power source 30 includes, for example, a polycrystalline silicon solar panel (not shown), and a power conditioner 31 that converts and outputs electric power generated by the solar panel.

The power conditioner 31 is consumed in the house HM having the generated power Pg, the hot water heater 20, the distributed power source 30, and the electric device 50 by acquiring the measurement result by the measuring device 40 via the control device 10. The power consumption Pc is monitored. When the generated power Pg exceeds the power consumption Pc, surplus power is generated in the house HM. This surplus power is supplied to the commercial power system PS as reverse power Pr. For this reason, the relational expression of Pg = Pc + Pr is established. Note that, when power is supplied from the commercial power system PS to the house HM, the reverse power Pr is a negative value. Hereinafter, the power consumption consumed in the house HM is simply referred to as power consumption.

When the power conditioner 31 acquires the suppression instruction from the power server 60 via the instruction acquisition unit 11, the power conditioner 31 limits the generated power Pg so as not to exceed the limit value at the time specified by the suppression instruction. However, since this limit value is a limit value specified when reverse power flow occurs, when the reverse power power Pr is negative, the power conditioner 31 generates power within a range in which the reverse power power Pr does not become positive. The power Pg is limited. The generated power Pg in this case may exceed the limit value. That is, when the power consumption Pc exceeds the limit value, the power conditioner 31 supplies the generated power Pg having a magnitude that does not exceed the power consumption Pc to the house HM, and sets the reverse power Pr to zero. When the power that can be output from the distributed power source 30 is larger than the power consumption Pc, the power conditioner 31 supplies the generated power Pg having the same magnitude as the power consumption Pc to the house HM.

FIG. 3 shows a specific example of the generated power Pg limited by the power conditioner 31. A line Lc indicated by a one-dot chain line in FIG. 3 represents a transition of the power consumption Pc, and a line Lg represented by a thick solid line represents a transition of the generated power Pg actually generated. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the generated power Pg becomes equal to the power that can be output by the distributed power source 30 at times P1 and P4 when the generated power is not limited. In addition, at time P2 when the limit value is greater than the power consumption Pc, the generated power Pg becomes equal to the limit value. Further, at time P3 when the limit value is smaller than the power consumption Pc, the generated power Pg becomes equal to the power consumption Pc. However, if the power that can be output by the distributed power source 30 is smaller than the power consumption Pc, the generated power Pg becomes equal to the power that can be output, as shown immediately before 15:00 in FIG.

As shown in the lower part of FIG. 3, since the generated power Pg is equal to the limit value at the time T1 included in the time P2, the loss power obtained by subtracting the actual generated power Pg from the power that can be output is relatively large. On the other hand, at time T2 included in time P3, the power that can be output and the limit value are substantially equal to time T1. At time T2, the power consumption Pc increases to some extent from time T1 and exceeds the limit value. Therefore, the generated power Pg is equal to the power consumption Pc, and the loss power is relatively small. For this reason, if the power consumption Pc is increased so as to exceed the limit value during the daytime when the backflow power is limited by the suppression instruction, the power loss can be reduced.

Returning to FIG. 1, the measuring device 40 measures generated power and consumed power using a current transformer (not shown) attached to the power line in the distribution board of the house HM. The measurement device 40 includes a first measurement value acquisition unit 41 that acquires a measurement value of generated power and a second measurement value acquisition unit 42 that acquires a measurement value of power consumption. The measurement device 40 notifies the control device 10 of the acquired measurement value.

The electric device 50 is, for example, a home appliance represented by an air conditioner, a lighting device, or a cooking device. The electric device 50 may be a terminal for operating the water heater 20 via the control device 10. Further, the electric device 50 may be a power storage device having a storage battery.

The power server 60 is a distribution server operated by an electric power company that provides the commercial power system PS as a commercial power source. The power server 60 distributes, for example, a suppression instruction created based on a weather forecast to the consumer before the day before the time specified by the suppression instruction. In addition, the suppression instruction is not distributed on the day when it is not necessary to suppress the reverse power flow by the consumer.

The data server 70 is a server device for causing the HEMS to function in cooperation with the control device 10. The data server 70 stores data necessary for the operation of the control device 10. For example, the data server 70 acquires and accumulates measurement results obtained by the measurement device 40 via the control device 10. In addition, the data server 70 acquires and accumulates the operating states of the water heater 20 and the electric device 50 collected by the control device 10. In addition, the data server 70 stores the operation state of each of the water heater 20 and the electric device 50 and the power consumed in the operation state in association with each other. Further, the data server 70 stores a unit price for power supplied from the commercial power system PS to the house HM and a unit price for selling reverse power supplied to the commercial power system PS for each time zone. Then, the data server 70 provides data to the control device 10 in response to a request from the control device 10.

FIG. 4 shows a hardware configuration of the control device 10, the control unit 21 of the water heater 20, the measurement device 40, and the data server 70. As shown in FIG. 4, the control device 10, the control unit 21, the measurement device 40, and the data server 70 include a processor H1, a main storage unit H2, an auxiliary storage unit H3, an input unit H4, an output unit H5, and a communication unit H6. It is comprised as a computer which has. The main storage unit H2, the auxiliary storage unit H3, the input unit H4, the output unit H5, and the communication unit H6 are all connected to the processor H1 via the internal bus H7.

The processor H1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor H1 exhibits the functions described later by executing the program Pa stored in the auxiliary storage unit H3.

The main storage unit H2 includes a RAM (Random Access Memory). The main storage unit H2 loads the program Pa from the auxiliary storage unit H3. The main storage unit H2 is used as a work area for the processor H1.

The auxiliary storage unit H3 includes a nonvolatile memory such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or a flash memory. In addition to the program Pa, the auxiliary storage unit H3 stores various data used for the processing of the processor H1.

The input unit H4 includes, for example, an input key and a capacitance type pointing device. The input unit H4 acquires information input by the user and notifies the processor H1.

The output unit H5 includes a display device represented by, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display). For example, the output unit H5 is formed integrally with a pointing device that configures the input unit H4, thereby configuring a touch screen.

The communication unit H6 includes a communication interface circuit for communicating with an external device. The communication unit H6 notifies the processor H1 of information included in the signal received from the outside, and transmits a signal for transmitting the information output from the processor H1 to an external device.

FIG. 5 shows a functional configuration of the water heater control system 100. The functions of the control device 10, the control unit 21 of the water heater 20, the measurement device 40, and the data server 70 shown in FIG. 5 are realized by the above hardware operating in cooperation.

The instruction acquisition unit 11 and the transfer unit 12 of the control device 10 are mainly realized by the processor H1 and the communication unit H6 of the control device 10. The instruction acquisition unit 11 transfers the suppression instruction transmitted from the power server 60 to the power conditioner 31 and the determination unit 14 of the distributed power supply 30. In addition, the transfer unit 12 transfers the measurement result obtained by the measurement device 40 to the power generation consumption prediction unit 71 of the data server 70.

The surplus power prediction unit 13 is mainly realized by the processor H1 of the control device 10. The surplus power prediction unit 13 predicts the transition of surplus power in the house HM based on the generated power predicted by the power generation and consumption prediction unit 71 of the data server 70 and the predicted value of power consumption. Then, the surplus power prediction unit 13 notifies the determination unit 14 of the prediction result.

The determination unit 14 is mainly realized by the processor H1 and the communication unit H6 of the control device 10. As shown in FIG. 6, the determination unit 14 performs the night boiling operation as to whether or not a condition for performing the boiling operation of the water heater 20 that is normally performed at night is satisfied during the day. It is determined according to the suppression instruction before being performed. If the boiling operation is performed in the daytime, the power consumption in the daytime increases and the power loss can be reduced. The determination unit 14 notifies the determination result to the control unit 21 of the water heater 20.

The control unit 21 of the water heater 20 controls the heat pump unit 23 based on the determination result of the determination unit 14 to cause the water heater 20 to generate hot water. In other words, the control unit 21 causes the hot water heater 20 to supply the hot water storage tank 24 with hot water of the target hot water storage amount when the instruction acquisition unit 11 of the control device 10 does not acquire the suppression instruction. The target hot water storage amount is the amount of hot water that is expected to be used in one day, and is determined in advance from the actual use of hot water by past users. In addition, the control unit 21 supplies hot water in the daytime by causing the water heater 20 to supply a smaller amount of hot water than the target hot water storage amount at night when the condition is established when the instruction acquisition unit 11 acquires the suppression instruction. By doing so, hot water in an amount greater than the target hot water storage amount is supplied to the hot water storage tank 24.

FIG. 7 shows changes in the amount of hot water when the water heater 20 performs a boiling operation during the day and when it does not. L11 indicated by a solid line in FIG. 7 corresponds to a normal case of boiling the target hot water storage amount at night without performing the boiling operation during the daytime. On the other hand, L12 indicated by a broken line corresponds to a case where the amount of hot water to be boiled at night is reduced from the target hot water storage amount and the hot water is boiled in the daytime according to a suppression instruction. As shown in FIG. 7, when the daytime boiling operation is executed, the amount of hot water V1 that is normally boiled at night shifts in the daytime, and the power consumption also shifts in the daytime.

Furthermore, the determination unit 14 determines whether or not to allow the water heater 20 to generate high-temperature hot water by increasing the temperature of the generated hot water when performing the boiling operation during the daytime. The hot water is 90 ° C. hot water. Below, the temperature of the hot water produced | generated at night is called normal temperature. When the boiling operation is performed in the daytime, at least one of normal temperature hot water and high temperature hot water is generated.

FIG. 8 shows a comparative example of the temperature distribution in the hot water storage tank 24 of the water heater 20 when normal temperature hot water is generated and when hot water is generated. The line L31 in FIG. 8 shows the temperature distribution of the hot water generated by constant power consumption, the line L32 shows the temperature distribution after about 2 days have passed and then radiated heat, and the line L33 The temperature distribution when the boiling operation is executed is shown.

As shown in FIG. 8, when normal temperature hot water is generated, the hot water having a temperature of about 50 ° C. as a result of heat dissipation moves to the bottom of the tank after the boiling operation, and the hot water of about 40 ° C. become. Hot water of about 40 ° C. is so-called medium temperature water. In order to provide the user with the intermediate temperature water as it is, a dedicated device is required. On the other hand, when the intermediate temperature water is heated again, the thermal efficiency is poor.

On the other hand, when high-temperature hot water is generated, the hot water having a temperature of about 70 ° C. as a result of heat dissipation moves to the lower side of the hot water storage tank 24 after the boiling operation and becomes hot water of 50-60 ° C. . Hot water of 50 to 60 ° C. can be provided to the user and can be used more effectively than medium-temperature water. That is, it is preferable to boil high-temperature hot water, even if the temperature decreases due to heat dissipation, the period that can be used as it is becomes longer. However, the power consumption when generating hot water is less efficient than the power consumption when generating normal temperature hot water, so if hot water is generated with power supplied from the commercial power system PS, The price will be high.

Returning to FIG. 5, the control unit 21 plans the operation plan of the water heater 20, and the first control module 22 a and the second control that control the heat pump unit 23 according to the operation plan prepared by the planning module 22. It has a module 22b. The planning module 22, the first control module 22a, and the second control module 22b are mainly realized by the processor H1 and the communication unit H6 of the control unit 21. The first control module 22a causes the heat pump unit 23 to generate hot water at normal temperature at night according to the operation plan. Further, the second control module 22b generates at least one of normal temperature hot water and high temperature hot water in the heat pump unit 23 during the day according to the operation plan established when the condition is satisfied when the suppression instruction is delivered. Let

The heat pump unit 23 is connected to the hot water storage tank 24 via a pipeline, and heats the hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 24 and then supplies the hot water to the hot water storage tank 24. The capacity of the hot water storage tank 24 is, for example, 800 liters. The amount of hot water generated by the boiling operation of the water heater 20 means the amount of hot water supplied to the hot water storage tank 24 by the heat pump unit 23 through the water pipe. Further, the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 24 may mean the amount when converted into hot water at 43 ° C. that is assumed to be used by the user.

Subsequently, processing executed in the water heater control system 100 will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 9 shows the power generation suppression process executed by the power conditioner 31 of the distributed power source 30. When power is supplied to the power conditioner 31, this power generation suppression process is repeatedly executed at a constant cycle. The fixed period is 1 minute.

In the power generation suppression process, the power conditioner 31 first determines whether or not the current time is included in the time specified by the suppression instruction (step S311). When there is no suppression instruction, the determination in step S311 is negative.

If it is determined that the current time is not included in the time specified by the suppression instruction (step S311; No), the power conditioner 31 operates in the normal mode (step S312). The normal mode is a mode in which all outputable power is supplied to the house HM and the commercial power system PS without limiting the generated power. Thereafter, the power conditioner 31 ends the power generation suppression process.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the current time is included in the time specified by the suppression instruction (step S311; Yes), the power conditioner 31 determines whether or not the current power generation capacity is greater than the limit value (step S313). ). The current power generation capacity means generated power that can be output at the current time.

When it is determined that the current power generation capacity is not greater than the limit value (step S313; No), the power conditioner 31 does not need to limit the generated power, and thus proceeds to step S312.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the current power generation capacity is greater than the limit value (step S313; Yes), the power conditioner 31 determines whether or not power is supplied from the commercial power system PS (step S314). That is, the power conditioner 31 determines whether or not the reverse flow power Pr is negative.

When it is determined that power is not supplied from the commercial power system PS (step S314; No), the power conditioner 31 operates in the output suppression mode (step S315). The output suppression mode is a mode in which the generated power is limited to the limit value specified by the suppression instruction. Thereafter, the power conditioner 31 ends the power generation suppression process.

When it is determined that power is supplied from the commercial power system PS (step S314; Yes), the power conditioner 31 operates in the reverse power flow zero mode (step S316). The reverse power flow zero mode is a mode in which the generated power is limited so that the reverse power power Pr approaches zero as much as possible. Thereafter, the power conditioner 31 ends the power generation suppression process.

Subsequently, an outline of communication performed between the control device 10 and the water heater 20 will be described with reference to FIG. As illustrated in FIG. 10, when a suppression instruction is transmitted from the power server 60 to the control device 10 (step S <b> 1), the control device 10 satisfies a condition for causing the water heater 20 to generate hot water during the daytime. It is determined whether or not (step S2).

If it is determined that the condition is satisfied (step S2; Yes), the control device 10 requests the water heater 20 to boil in the daytime (step S3). Then, the control device 10 further determines whether or not hot water can be generated in at least part of the daytime boiling operation (step S4).

When it is determined that high temperature hot water can be generated (step S4; Yes), the control device 10 requests the water heater 20 to boil high temperature hot water (step S5).

When it is determined in step S2 that the condition is not satisfied (step S2; No), the control device 10 does not request daytime boiling. Moreover, when it determines with not producing hot hot water in step S4 (step S4; No), the control apparatus 10 does not request | require boiling of hot hot water.

The water heater 20 that is requested to boil in the daytime executes a planning process for planning a daytime boiling operation (step S22). When boiling of hot water is requested, the water heater 20 also plans an operation of boiling hot water during daytime boiling operation. Thereafter, the water heater 20 executes a control process for controlling the heat pump unit 23 of the water heater 20 in accordance with the operation plan established in the planning process (step S21). The control process in this case includes a process executed by the first control module 22a (see FIG. 5) and a process executed by the second control module 22b (see FIG. 5). Thereby, the water heater 20 will perform the night boiling operation and the daytime boiling operation.

When the control process is executed, the control device 10 determines whether or not the operation mode change flag is ON (step S6). The change of the operation mode means that the daytime boiling operation planned in advance is stopped according to the actual generated power and power consumption.

When it is determined that the operation mode change flag is ON (step S6; Yes), the control device 10 requests the water heater 20 to change the operation mode (step S7). On the other hand, when it is determined that the operation mode change flag is not ON (step S6; No), the control device 10 does not request the hot water heater 20 to change the operation mode.

When requested to change the operation mode, the water heater 20 changes the operation mode (step S8).

Subsequently, details of a part executed by night in the series of processes shown in FIG. 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 11, a suppression instruction is transmitted from the power server 60 to the control device 10 (step S1). In addition, the measurement device 40 sequentially transmits the measurement values of the generated power and the power consumption to the data server 70 via the control device 10.

The data server 70 executes a power generation consumption prediction process that calculates a predicted value of generated power and power consumption from the received measurement values (step S70). The prediction by the power generation consumption prediction process may be, for example, calculating an average of the transition of one day in the past fixed period, or statistically using parameters including weather conditions, day of the week, and user schedule. A prediction value may be calculated. Note that the prediction of the generated power is executed by excluding the actual result of the generated power suppressed in the past by the suppression instruction. That is, the predicted value of the generated power means a predicted value of the generated power that can be output by the distributed power source 30. Moreover, although it is desirable that the predicted value of power consumption be predicted by excluding the case where daytime boiling operation is executed, it may be predicted including this case.

The control device 10 requests the data server 70 for a prediction result, and obtains the prediction result as a response. And the control apparatus 10 performs the surplus power prediction process which calculates the predicted value of the surplus power in the house HM based on the predicted value of generated electric power and power consumption (step S13). This surplus power prediction process will be described with reference to FIGS.

The surplus power prediction process is a process for predicting the surplus power transition from 0:00 to 24:00 on the next day for each 30-minute time segment. In the surplus power prediction process shown in FIG. 12, the surplus power prediction unit 13 of the control device 10 first substitutes 1 for a variable a (step S131). The variable a is a number assigned to the time segment.

Next, the surplus power prediction unit 13 predicts surplus power in the a-th time segment (step S132). In this prediction, for example, a predicted value of surplus power is obtained by subtracting a predicted value of power consumption from a predicted value of generated power in the a-th time segment. Note that when the predicted values of generated power and consumed power are not divided into 30-minute time segments, the surplus power predicting unit 13 calculates the predicted value of surplus power using the average value in this time segment.

Next, the surplus power prediction unit 13 determines whether or not the variable a is the last value (step S133). The last value is the number “48” assigned to the time segment from 23:30 to 24:00.

When it is determined that the variable a is not the last value (step S133; No), the surplus power prediction unit 13 increases the value of the variable a by 1 (step S134). Thereafter, the surplus power predicting unit 13 repeats the processes after step S132.

On the other hand, when it determines with the variable a being the last value (step S133; Yes), the surplus power prediction part 13 complete | finishes a surplus power prediction process.

FIG. 13 shows a prediction result by the surplus power prediction process. In FIG. 13, a region corresponding to surplus power is hatched. In the surplus power prediction process, the value of power is predicted by dividing the hatched region into 30-minute time segments. In addition, the line Lg in FIG. 13 shows the transition of the predicted value of the generated power, and the line Lc shows the transition of the predicted value of the power consumption.

Referring back to FIG. 11, the control device 10 executes daytime boiling determination processing (step S14) following the surplus power prediction processing (step S13). The daytime boiling determination process is a process for determining whether or not a condition for performing the boiling operation during the day is satisfied, and corresponds to step S2 in FIG. Hereinafter, daytime boiling determination processing will be described with reference to FIGS.

In the daytime boiling determination process shown in FIG. 14, the determination unit 14 first assigns 1 to the variable a and sets all daytime boiling permission flags to OFF (step S141).

Next, the determination unit 14 determines whether there is a suppression instruction for the a-th time segment (step S142). Specifically, the determination unit 14 determines whether or not the a-th time segment of the next day is included in the time specified by the suppression instruction and a limit value smaller than the rated power of the distributed power source 30 is specified. Determine whether.

If it is determined that there is no suppression instruction for the a-th time segment (step S142; No), the determination unit 14 proceeds to step S149. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is a suppression instruction for the a-th time segment (step S142; Yes), the determination unit 14 calculates a limit value of the generated power in the a-th time segment (step S143). Specifically, when the limit value specified by the suppression instruction indicates a ratio with respect to the rated power of the distributed power supply 30, the determination unit 14 multiplies the rated power by this ratio to make a unit of W or kW. The limit value is calculated.

Next, the determination unit 14 determines whether or not the power consumption is smaller than the generated power even when the water heater 20 generates hot water at a normal temperature in the a-th time segment (step S144). Specifically, the determination unit 14 predicts the increased power consumption even if the predicted value of the power consumption consumed in the house HM increases when the water heater 20 performs the boiling operation in the a-th time segment. It is determined whether the value is smaller than the predicted value of the generated power.

However, the predicted value of the power consumption output from the power generation consumption prediction unit 71 indicates the power consumption when the water heater 20 performs the boiling operation at night without performing the boiling operation during the daytime. For this reason, the determination unit 14 refers to the history of the operation state of the water heater 20 stored in the data server 70 and the power consumed in the operation state, so that the water heater among the predicted power consumption values. A predicted value of the total power consumption of devices other than 20 can be obtained. The determination unit 14 determines whether the sum of the predicted value of the total power consumption and the power consumption of the water heater 20 that performs the boiling operation is smaller than the predicted value of the generated power.

If it is determined that even if the water heater 20 generates hot water, the power consumption is not smaller than the generated power (step S144; No), the determination unit 14 proceeds to step S149.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the power consumption is smaller than the generated power even if the water heater 20 generates hot water (step S144; Yes), the determination unit 14 determines whether the generated power in the a-th time segment is larger than the limit value. Is determined (step S145). Specifically, the determination unit 14 determines whether or not the predicted value of the generated power is larger than the limit value calculated in step S143.

If it is determined that the generated power is greater than the limit value (step S145; Yes), the determination unit 14 determines whether the power consumption in the a-th time segment is greater than the limit value (step S146). Specifically, the determination unit 14 determines whether or not the predicted power consumption value is greater than the limit value calculated in step S143.

If it is determined that the power consumption is greater than the limit value (step S146; Yes), the determination unit 14 determines that the condition is satisfied and sets the boiling permission flag corresponding to the a-th time segment to ON ( Step S147).

If it is determined in step S145 that the generated power is not larger than the limit value (step S145; No), the determination unit 14 sells the reverse power during the day when the power purchase price of the power consumed by the water heater 20 is nighttime. It is determined whether or not the price is larger (step S148). Specifically, the determination unit 14 determines whether the charge for the power consumed by the water heater 20 at 30 minutes at night is larger than the power sale price of the predicted value of the reverse power in the a-th time segment. To do.

If the determination in step S148 is affirmative (step S148; Yes), the a-th time is more than the economic benefit obtained by supplying the reverse power to the commercial power system PS for sale in the a-th time segment. The economic benefits obtained by causing the water heater 20 to perform a boiling operation in the section and reducing the charge for nighttime power consumption are greater. That is, it is more economical to perform boiling operation during the daytime. For this reason, when determination of step S148 is affirmed, the determination part 14 transfers to step S147, and sets a boiling permission flag to ON.

On the other hand, if the determination in step S148 is negative, it is more economical not to perform the boiling operation in the daytime. For this reason, the determination part 14 transfers a process to step S149, without turning ON a boiling permission flag.

However, in the determination in step S148 executed after the determination in step S145 is denied, the reverse power flow is equal to the generated power minus power consumption.

If it is determined in step S146 that the power consumption is not greater than the limit value (step S146; No), the determination unit 14 proceeds to step S148. However, in the determination in step S148 in this case, the reverse power flow is equal to the limit value minus the power consumption.

The boiling permission flag is set to ON in a specific case by the processing of steps S144 to S147. FIG. 15 shows the magnitude relationship among the generated power Pg, the limit value Pp, the total power consumption Pd of devices other than the water heater 20, and the power consumption Ph of the water heater 20, the economic effect, the boiling permission flag, and the power condition. The table which linked | related with the operation mode of NA 31 is shown.

FIG. 16 shows the relationship between the generated power Pg and the economic effect when the limit value Pp is larger than the sum of the total power consumption Pd of the devices other than the water heater 20 and the power consumption Ph of the water heater 20. ing. The line L21 in FIG. 16 corresponds to the case where the boiling operation is not performed in the daytime, and the line L22 corresponds to the case where the boiling operation is performed in the daytime. Gmax means the rated power of the distributed power supply 30. 16 includes

cases

1, 2, 7, 8, 9, and 10 shown in FIG.

As indicated by the line L21, in the case where the boiling operation is not performed in the daytime, the reverse power is generated when the generated power Pg exceeds the total power consumption Pd. However, even if the generated power Pg exceeds the limit value Pp, the power that is actually generated is limited to the limit value Pp, so the economic effect does not increase. Further, when the generated power Pg falls below the total power consumption Pd and becomes zero, the total power consumption Pd is covered by power from the commercial power system PS, so the economic effect is reduced.

Further, as shown by the line L22, when the boiling operation is performed in the daytime, if the generated power Pg exceeds the sum Pd + Ph of the total power consumption Pd and the power consumption Ph of the water heater 20, the night boiling operation is performed. Economical effects can be obtained because the power consumption required for this is reduced. Further, when the generated power Pg becomes less than Pd + Ph and becomes zero, the total power consumption Pd and the power consumption Ph of the water heater 20 are covered by the power from the commercial power system PS, so the economic effect is reduced.

FIG. 17 shows the relationship between the generated power Pg and the economic effect when the limit value Pp is larger than the total power consumption Pd and smaller than the sum of the total power consumption Pd and the power consumption Ph of the water heater 20. Yes. The power magnitude relationship shown in FIG. 17 includes case 3 shown in FIG.

FIG. 18 shows the relationship between the generated power Pg and the economic effect when the limit value Pp is smaller than the total power consumption Pd. The power magnitude relationship shown in FIG. 18 includes

cases

4, 5, 6, and 11 shown in FIG.

14, following step S147, the determination unit 14 determines whether or not the variable a is the last value (step S149). If it is determined that the variable a is not the last value (step S149; No), the determination unit 14 increases the value of the variable a by 1 (step S150). Then, the determination part 14 repeats the process after step S142.

In step S141 to S149, the boiling permission flag is set to ON or OFF for each time segment on the next day. FIG. 19 shows an example of the relationship between the boiling permission flag series and the transition of the generated power, the power consumption, and the limit value. In the example shown in FIG. 19, the area corresponding to the surplus power during the time when the boiling permission flag is set to ON is hatched. Of the time when the limit value is specified by the suppression instruction, at time P13, the surplus power is insufficient, and when the water heater 20 performs the boiling operation, the power consumption exceeds the generated power, so the boiling permission flag is turned off. Is set. Further, at time P11, the limit value exceeds the power consumption, and the boiling power is raised based on the judgment that it is more economical to sell the reverse power than to make the water heater 20 perform the boiling operation. The permission flag is set to OFF. In addition, at time P12, since there is sufficient surplus power and the limit value is smaller than the power consumption, the boiling permission flag is set to ON.

When it is determined in step S149 shown in FIG. 14 that the variable a is the last value (step S149; Yes), the determination unit 14 sets the boiling permission flag as the condition establishment time as shown in FIG. The longest time that is continuously turned on is searched (step S151).

Next, the determination unit 14 sets the boiling permission flag other than the condition establishment time to OFF (step S152). Thereby, execution and stop of the boiling operation of the water heater 20 can be prevented from being repeated alternately.

Next, the determination unit 14 acquires the start time and end time of the condition establishment time (step S153). The determination unit 14 notifies the acquired start time and end time to the water heater 20 (step S154). And the determination part 14 complete | finishes a daytime boiling determination process.

Referring back to FIG. 11, following the daytime boiling determination process (step S14), the control device 10 executes a high temperature boiling determination process (step S16). The high-temperature boiling determination process is a process for determining whether or not a high-temperature boiling condition for generating high-temperature hot water is satisfied, and corresponds to step S4 in FIG. The high temperature boiling determination process is executed by 22:30 so that, for example, steps S3 and S5 described later are completed by 23:00 when the electricity bill becomes cheap. Hereinafter, the high temperature boiling determination process will be described with reference to FIG.

In the high temperature boiling determination process, the determination unit 14 first determines whether or not the distributed power source 30 is connected to the power storage device via the power line (step S161). Since the control device 10 manages the devices in the house HM, the determination unit 14 performs the determination in step S161 based on the management information of the devices used by the control device 10.

When it is determined that the power storage device is connected (step S161; No), the determination unit 14 ends the high temperature boiling determination process. Thereby, the charging process of the power storage device is prioritized over the hot water boiling operation by the water heater 20. On the other hand, when it determines with the electrical storage apparatus not being connected (step S161; Yes), the determination part 14 sets a high temperature time length to zero and initializes (step S162).

Next, the determination unit 14 initializes the variable b by substituting the value of the variable a corresponding to the boiling permission flag last set to ON into the variable b (step S163). The variable b is a number assigned to the time segment in the same manner as the variable a. However, the variable b is handled differently from the variable a in that a value corresponding to the last time section of the condition establishment time is set as an initial value.

Next, the determination unit 14 determines whether or not the power consumption is smaller than the generated power even if the water heater 20 generates hot water in the b-th time segment (step S164). Specifically, the determination unit 14 predicts the increased power consumption even if the predicted value of the power consumption consumed in the house HM increases because the water heater 20 generates hot water in the b-th time segment. It is determined whether the value is smaller than the predicted value of the generated power.

If it is determined that the power consumption is smaller than the generated power (step S164; Yes), the determination unit 14 extends the high temperature time length by 30 minutes (step S165). Then, the determination unit 14 decreases the value of the variable b by 1 (step S166). Then, the determination part 14 repeats the process after step S164.

When it is determined in step S164 that the power consumption is not smaller than the generated power (step S164; No), the determination unit 14 calculates the start time of the high temperature boiling permission time. Specifically, the determination unit 14 calculates a time preceding the end time of the condition establishment time by the high temperature time length as the start time of the high temperature boiling permission time. Thereafter, the determination unit 14 ends the high temperature boiling determination process.

By the above high-temperature boiling determination process, a continuous time until the end time of the condition establishment time is newly set as the high-temperature boiling permission time.

Returning to FIG. 11, when the high temperature boiling determination process (step S <b> 16) is completed, the control device 10 notifies the hot water heater 20 of the daytime boiling by notifying the start time and the end time of the daytime boiling condition establishment time. Request to execute the raising operation (step S3). Moreover, the control apparatus 10 requests | requires execution of the boiling operation of high temperature hot water with respect to the water heater 20 by notifying the start time of high temperature boiling permission time (step S5).

Next, the water heater 20 executes a planning process (step S22). The planning process is a process for planning the start time and end time of the boiling operation and the amount of boiling water based on the time notified from the control device 10. This planning process will be described with reference to FIG.

In the planning process, the planning module 22 of the water heater 20 first acquires the length of the condition establishment time from the start time and end time of the condition establishment time (step S221). Next, the planning module 22 determines whether or not the length of the condition establishment time is longer than the lower limit value of the boiling operation time (step S222). The lower limit value of the boiling operation time is, for example, 20 minutes, and is set in advance according to the model of the water heater 20, but may be set by the user.

When it is determined that the length of the condition establishment time is not longer than the lower limit value of the boiling operation time (step S222; No), the planning module 22 moves the process to step S233. On the other hand, when it is determined that the condition establishment time is longer than the lower limit value of the boiling operation time (step S222; Yes), the length of the high temperature boiling permission time is acquired (step S223).

Next, the planning module 22 determines whether or not the length of the high temperature boiling permission time is longer than zero (step S224). When it is determined that the length is longer than zero (step S224; Yes), the planning module 22 determines whether or not the length of the condition establishment time is excessive (step S225). Specifically, the planning module 22 determines whether or not the coefficient calculated from the length of the condition establishment time and the length of the high temperature boiling permission time is greater than the threshold value. This coefficient is, for example, the sum of the condition establishment time and the value obtained by multiplying the high temperature boiling permission time by the high temperature efficiency ratio. High temperature efficiency ratio refers to the rate of increase in the amount of heat at high temperatures relative to normal temperature. The threshold value is the longest daytime in which the boiling operation can be performed, and is determined according to the amount of hot water that can be boiled in the daytime. The amount of hot water that can be boiled in the daytime is, for example, an amount obtained by subtracting the minimum hot water storage amount for preventing hot water shortage until the daytime from the target hot water storage amount.

When it is determined that the condition establishment time is excessive (step S225; Yes), the planning module 22 cannot allocate all the condition establishment times to the boiling operation. In this case, the planning module 22 sets the amount of hot water generated at night to the minimum amount of stored hot water (step S226).

Next, the planning module 22 calculates the amount of hot water generated at daytime and the amount of hot water at normal temperature (step S227). Specifically, the planning module 22 calculates the amount of hot water that is boiled at the high temperature permission time, and reduces the amount of hot water at normal temperature to the amount obtained by subtracting the minimum amount of hot water and the amount of hot water from the maximum amount of hot water stored in the water heater 20 Set. The maximum hot water storage amount is the capacity of the hot water storage tank 24.

Next, the planning module 22 sets the generation end time of hot water at normal temperature and the generation end time of hot water at normal temperature based on the time required to boil the amount of hot water calculated in step S227 (step S227). S228). Specifically, the plan module 22 sets the generation end time of the hot water as the end time of the condition establishment time. The planning module 22 sets the generation end time of normal temperature hot water to the generation start time of high temperature hot water. Thereby, the boiling operation is executed in a continuous time until the end time of the condition establishment time, and heat radiation can be suppressed as much as possible. The hot water generation end time means the end time of the boiling operation.

Next, the planning module 22 sets the generation start time of normal temperature hot water in the daytime (step S229). Specifically, the planning module 22 calculates the time required to store the maximum amount of hot water, and generates the time obtained by subtracting the calculated time from the generation end time set in step S228. Set as start time. The hot water generation start time means the start time of the boiling operation. Thereafter, the planning module 22 shifts the processing to step S233.

If it is determined in step S225 that the condition establishment time is not excessive (step S225; No), the planning module 22 can assign all of the condition establishment times to the boiling operation. In this case, the planning module 22 sets the start time and end time of the condition establishment time and the start time and end time of the high temperature boiling permission time as they are as the hot water generation start time and end time (step S230). .

Next, the planning module 22 calculates the amount of hot water that can be generated during the condition establishment time and the amount of hot water that can be generated during the high temperature boiling permission time as the amount of hot water generated during the daytime (step S231). The planning module 22 sets the amount of hot water generated at night to an amount obtained by subtracting the amount of hot water generated during the day from the target hot water storage amount (step S232).

Thereafter, the planning module 22 calculates the hot water generation start time and generation end time at night. Specifically, the planning module 22 sets a time for generating the amount of hot water set in step S226 or step S232. This time is preferably set in the vicinity of the end of the time when the electricity rate is low, from the viewpoint of suppressing heat dissipation as much as possible.

FIG. 23 shows an example of the amount of hot water set in steps S226 to S232. As indicated by arrows in FIG. 23, when the condition establishment time is excessive, the amount of hot water generated during the day is set after the amount of hot water generated during the night is set. Specifically, the minimum hot water storage amount, the hot water amount, and the normal temperature hot water amount are set in this order. In the example shown in FIG. 23, the minimum hot water storage amount is set to an amount obtained by adding a margin to the minimum starting hot water storage amount for preventing hot water shortage. On the other hand, when the condition establishment time is not excessive, as shown by an arrow, the amount of hot water generated at night is set after the amount of hot water generated during the day is set. Specifically, it is set in the order of the amount of hot water, the amount of hot water at normal temperature, and the amount of hot water generated at night.

When it determines with the length of high temperature boiling permission time not being longer than zero in step S224 (step S224; No), as shown in FIG. 24, the plan module 22 has the length of condition establishment time longer than a threshold value. It is determined whether or not it is long (step S234). This determination is equivalent to the determination in the case where the length of the high temperature boiling permission time is zero in step S225.

When it is determined that the condition establishment time is longer than the threshold (step S234; Yes), the planning module 22 cannot allocate all the condition establishment times to the boiling operation. In this case, the planning module 22 sets the amount of hot water generated at night to the minimum amount of stored hot water (step S235). The planning module 22 sets the amount of hot water at normal temperature generated in the daytime to an amount obtained by subtracting the minimum amount of hot water from the maximum amount of stored hot water (step S236).

Next, the planning module 22 sets the generation end time of daytime hot water to the end time of the condition establishment time (step S237). Then, the planning module 22 sets the daytime hot water generation start time (step S227). Specifically, the planning module 22 calculates the time required to store the maximum amount of hot water, and generates the time obtained by subtracting the calculated time from the generation end time set in step S237. Set as start time. Thereafter, the planning module 22 shifts the process to step S243.

If it is determined in step S234 that the condition establishment time is not longer than the threshold (step S234; No), the planning module 22 can assign all of the condition establishment times to the boiling operation. In this case, the planning module 22 sets the generation start time and generation end time of daytime hot water to the start time and end time of the condition establishment time (step S240).

Next, the planning module 22 calculates the amount of hot water at a normal temperature that can be generated during the condition establishment time as the amount of hot water generated during the daytime (step S241). The planning module 22 sets the amount of hot water generated at night to an amount obtained by subtracting the amount of hot water generated during the day from the target hot water storage amount (step S242).

Next, the planning module 22 calculates the generation start time and generation end time of nighttime hot water (step S243). Specifically, the planning module 22 sets a time for generating the amount of hot water set in step S235 or step S242. Thereafter, the planning module 22 ends the planning process.

Returning to FIG. 11, when the planning process (step S <b> 22) ends, the control device 10 requests the hot water generator 20 for the hot water generation time planned in the planning process and receives a response to this request to receive the hot water. Get generation time of. And the control apparatus 10 performs the prediction correction process which corrects a predicted value (step S18). This prediction correction process will be described with reference to FIG.

In the prediction correction process, the processor H1 of the control device 10 first substitutes 1 for the variable a (step S181). Next, the processor H1 determines whether or not the boiling operation in the a-th time segment is different from the schedule of the water heater 20 stored by the control device 10 (step S182). This schedule is usually a schedule for performing a boiling operation at night without performing a boiling operation in the daytime.

If it is determined that the presence or absence of the boiling operation is not different from the schedule (step S182; No), the processor H1 moves the process to step S184. On the other hand, when it is determined that the presence or absence of the boiling operation is different from the schedule (step S182; Yes), the processor H1 corrects the predicted power consumption value in the a-th time segment (step S183).

Next, the processor H1 determines whether or not the variable a is the last value (step S184). If it is determined that the variable a is not the last value (step S184; No), the value of the variable a is increased by 1. (Step S185), and the processing after Step S182 is repeated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the variable a is the last value (step S184; Yes), the processor H1 ends the prediction correction process.

Subsequently, details of the portion executed in the daytime in the series of processes shown in FIG. 10 will be described with reference to FIGS.

As shown in FIG. 26, when the daytime hot water generation start time comes, the water heater 20 starts generating hot water (step S25). In addition, the measurement device 40 repeatedly transmits the measurement values of the generated power and the power consumption to the control device 10.

The control device 10 sequentially executes a power purchase price determination process (step S191) and a power sale price determination process (step S195) based on the measured value. These processes are processes for determining whether or not to change the operation mode of the water heater 20 when the actual surplus power is different from the predicted surplus power. Hereinafter, these processes will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 27 shows a power purchase price determination process. The power purchase price determination process is a process for determining whether or not the power purchase caused by the shortage of surplus power should be suppressed by stopping the boiling operation of the water heater 20. As illustrated in FIG. 27, in the power purchase price determination process, the determination unit 14 first calculates an integrated value of the power purchase price in the daytime (step S192). If the surplus power changes as predicted and the boiling operation is performed in the daytime, the power consumption does not exceed the generated power, so the power purchase price calculated in step S192 is zero.

Next, the determination unit 14 determines whether or not the calculated power purchase price is larger than the average value of the power purchase price of the power consumption of the water heater 20 in one day (step S193). This average value is calculated from, for example, the operation history of the water heater 20 in a past fixed period.

When it is determined that the calculated power purchase price is not greater than the average value (step S193; No), the determination unit 14 ends the power purchase price determination process. On the other hand, when it determines with the calculated electric power purchase price being larger than an average value (step S193; Yes), the determination part 14 sets an operation mode change flag to ON, and sets the hot water amount which should be produced | generated in the daytime as a target hot water storage amount. Change (step S194). Thereafter, the determination unit 14 ends the purchase price determination process.

FIG. 28 shows the power selling price determination process. The power selling price determination process is a process for determining whether or not surplus power is excessive and whether power should be supplied to the commercial power system PS instead of the water heater 20 from the viewpoint of economic effect. As shown in FIG. 28, in the power selling price determination process, the determination unit 14 first determines whether or not the current hot water storage amount is larger than the target hot water storage amount (step S196).

Next, the determination unit 14 determines whether or not the power selling price of the reverse power when the water heater 20 does not generate hot water exceeds the power purchase price of the power consumed by the water heater at night (step S197). ). Specifically, the determination unit 14 calculates the power obtained by subtracting the power consumption of the water heater 20 from the current measured power consumption value as the power consumption when the water heater 20 does not generate hot water, and calculates the calculated power. Calculate the selling price of the reverse power obtained by subtracting the current generated power. Moreover, the determination part 14 calculates the electric power purchase price of the electric power consumed when the water heater 20 performs a boiling operation at night, without performing a boiling operation in the daytime. Then, the determination unit 14 determines whether or not the calculated power sale price is higher than the power purchase price.

If it is determined that the power sale price does not exceed the power purchase price (step S197; No), the determination unit 14 ends the power sale price determination process. On the other hand, when it determines with a power sale price exceeding a power purchase price (step S197; Yes), the determination part 14 sets an operation mode change flag to ON, and makes the water heater 20 stop boiling operation (step). S198). Thereafter, the determination unit 14 ends the power sale price determination process.

Referring back to FIG. 26, following the power selling price determination process (step S195), the control device 10 determines whether or not the operation mode change flag is set to ON (step S6).

When it is determined that the operation mode change flag is not set to ON (step S6; No), the control device 10 does not change the operation mode of the water heater 20. On the other hand, when it determines with the operation mode change flag being set to ON (step S6; Yes), the control apparatus 10 requests | requires the change of an operation mode with respect to the water heater 20 (step S7).

Thereafter, the water heater 20 changes the operation mode in accordance with a request from the control device 10 (step S8). Then, when the hot water generation end time is reached and the boiling operation is continued, the water heater 20 stops the hot water generation (step S27).

As described above, in the water heater control system 100 according to the present embodiment, the control unit 21 of the water heater 20 causes the water heater 20 to generate normal temperature hot water at night, and a suppression instruction is sent to the control device 10. When acquired by the instruction acquisition unit 11, the hot water heater 20 is caused to generate hot water during the daytime specified by the suppression instruction. As a result, although the power generation is possible, the power lost due to the generated power being limited by the suppression instruction can be reduced. As a result, the utilization efficiency of electric power can be improved.

Further, in the water heater control system 100, as shown in step S164 of FIG. 21, even if the water heater 20 generates high-temperature hot water during the day, the first measured value acquisition unit indicates that the power consumption is smaller than the generated power. 41 and the control part 21 made the hot water heater 20 produce | generate hot water, when it shows by prediction from the measured value acquired by the 2nd measured value acquisition part 42. FIG. Thereby, hot water can be produced | generated, without producing new electric power purchase.

Also, in the water heater control system 100, the control unit 21 causes the water heater 20 to generate hot water at normal temperature and then generate hot water. Normally, the hot water that has been boiled flows into the hot water storage tank 24 from the upper part of the hot water storage tank 24, so that hot water of normal temperature and hot water are mixed in the hot water storage tank 24 by boiling the hot water later. Can be avoided.

Further, in the water heater control system 100, when the distributed power source 30 is connected to the power storage device via the power line, hot water is not generated. Thereby, surplus electric power is preferentially assigned to the charging process of the power storage device over the generation of hot water. In general, the power storage device is highly convenient because the stored energy can be supplied again as electric power. For this reason, convenience can be improved by supplying surplus electric power preferentially to a power storage device.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
Next, the second embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. In addition, about the structure which is the same as that of the said Embodiment 1, or equivalent, while using an equivalent code | symbol, the description is abbreviate | omitted or simplified.

The water heater control system 101 according to the present embodiment is different from the water heater control system 100 according to the first embodiment in that the controller 10 is omitted.

As shown in FIG. 29, in the water heater control system 101, the distributed power source 30, the measuring device 40, and the electric device 50 can communicate with the data server 70 via the home network NW2 and the wide area network NW1. It is connected. The water heater 20 is connected so as to be communicable with the distributed power source 30 and is connected to the data server 70 via the distributed power source 30.

The data server 70 has an instruction acquisition unit 11. The data server 70 functions in the same manner as the control device 10 according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 30 shows a functional configuration of the water heater control system 101 according to the present embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 30, the data server 70 includes an instruction acquisition unit 11, a surplus power prediction unit 13, and a determination unit 14. In addition, the distributed power source 30 includes a relay unit 32 that relays communication between the determination unit 14 of the data server 70 and the control unit 21 of the water heater 20.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the water heater control system 101 is configured by omitting the control device 10. Thereby, the number of the apparatuses installed in the house HM can be reduced, and the water heater control system 101 can be simply configured.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
Subsequently, the third embodiment will be described focusing on differences from the above-described second embodiment. In addition, about the structure same or equivalent to the said Embodiment 2, while using an equivalent code | symbol, the description is abbreviate | omitted or simplified.

As shown in FIG. 31, the water heater control system 102 according to the present embodiment is a water heater control system according to the second embodiment in that the water heater 20 communicates with the data server 70 via the home network NW2. 101.

As described above, in the present embodiment, since the distributed power source 30 does not need to relay communication between the data server 70 and the water heater 20, the water heater control system 102 using the general-purpose distributed power source 30 is used. Can be configured.

Embodiment 4 FIG.
Next, the fourth embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. In addition, about the structure which is the same as that of the said Embodiment 1, or equivalent, while using an equivalent code | symbol, the description is abbreviate | omitted or simplified.

The water heater control system 103 according to the present embodiment is different from the water heater control system 100 according to the first embodiment in that the controller 10 and the data server 70 are omitted. Further, the water heater control system 103 is different from the water heater control system 100 in that the power generation consumption prediction unit 71 and the surplus power prediction unit 13 are omitted.

FIG. 32 shows a functional configuration of the water heater control system 103. As shown in FIG. 32, the water heater 20 includes an instruction acquisition unit 11, a determination unit 14, and a storage unit 19 that accumulates measurement values. The determination unit 14 replaces the predicted value according to the first embodiment with the average value of the generated power and the measured power consumption accumulated in the storage unit 19 for the daytime boiling determination process and the high temperature boiling determination process. Use.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the water heater control system 103 is configured by omitting the control device 10 and the data server 70. Thereby, the water heater control system 103 can be simply configured.

Embodiment 5 FIG.
Next, the fifth embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the first embodiment described above. In addition, about the structure which is the same as that of the said Embodiment 1, or equivalent, while using an equivalent code | symbol, the description is abbreviate | omitted or simplified.

The water heater control system 104 according to the present embodiment is different from the water heater control system 100 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a power storage device 81 and an electric vehicle 82, as shown in FIG. Also, the water heater control system 104 is different from the water heater control system 100 in that a device to be operated during the day according to the suppression instruction is selected from the water heater 20, the electric device 50, the power storage device 81, and the electric vehicle 82. Yes.

When the control device 10 acquires the suppression instruction, the control device 10 executes a target device selection process shown in FIG. This target device selection process is a process of selecting a device to be operated by consuming electric power during the daytime.

In the target device selection process, the processor H1 of the control device 10 first determines whether or not the power storage device 81 or the electric vehicle 82 is connected so as to be communicable with the control device 10 (step S81). When it is determined that the power storage device 81 or the electric vehicle 82 is connected (step S81; Yes), the processor H1 determines whether the target device conformity condition is satisfied for the connected power storage device 81 or the electric vehicle 82. Is determined (step S82). This conforming condition includes, for example, that the user does not plan to use or that the charging rate is a certain value or less.

If it is determined that the conforming condition is satisfied (step S82; Yes), the processor H1 selects the power storage device 81 or the electric vehicle 82 (step S83). When these devices are selected, the control device 10 causes these devices to execute a charging process at the time designated by the suppression instruction. Thereafter, the processor H1 ends the target device selection process.

When it is determined in step S81 that the power storage device 81 or the electric vehicle 82 is not connected (step S81; No), or when it is determined in step S82 that the matching condition is not satisfied (step S82; No), the processor H1 Determines whether the water heater 20 is communicably connected to the control device 10 (step S84).

When it is determined that the water heater 20 is connected (step S84; Yes), the processor H1 determines whether or not a conforming condition is satisfied for the connected water heater 20 (step S85). This conforming condition includes, for example, that the user does not plan to use, or that the amount of stored hot water is a predetermined value or less.

When it is determined that the conforming condition is satisfied (step S85; Yes), the processor H1 selects the water heater 20 (step S86). Thereafter, the processor H1 ends the target device selection process.

When it is determined in step S84 that the water heater 20 is not connected (step S84; No), or when it is determined in step S85 that the matching condition is not satisfied (step S85; No), the processor H1 Is determined to be communicable with the control device 10 (step S87). The power saving device means the electric device 50 that is a target of power saving, and is, for example, a refrigerator or an air conditioning device.

When it is determined that the power saving device is connected (step S87; Yes), the processor H1 determines whether or not a conforming condition is satisfied for the connected power saving device (step S88).

If it is determined that the matching condition is satisfied (step S88; Yes), the processor H1 selects a power saving device (step S89). When the power saving device is selected, the control device 10 cancels the power saving setting imposed on the power saving device at the time specified by the suppression instruction. Thereafter, the processor H1 ends the target device selection process.

If it is determined in step S87 that the power-saving device is not connected (step S87; No), or if it is determined in step S88 that the matching condition is not satisfied (step S88; No), the processor H1 selects the target device. The target device selection process is terminated without making a selection.

As described above, the control device 10 according to the present embodiment selects the target device in the order of the power storage device 81 or the electric vehicle 82, the water heater 20, and the power saving device. The power storage device 81 and the electric vehicle 82 are highly convenient because they have a large energy storage capacity and can reuse the stored energy as electric power. In addition, the hot water heater 20 cannot reuse the accumulated amount of heat as electric power, but the capacity of the accumulated energy is relatively large. For this reason, a suitable apparatus can be selected in order with high convenience.

As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was described, this invention is not limited by the said embodiment.

For example, the distributed power source 30 is not limited to a device that generates power using sunlight, and may be a device that generates power using wind or hydraulic power, or a device including a fuel cell.

Further, the program Pa stored in the auxiliary storage unit H3 can be read by a computer such as a flexible disk, a CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read-Only Memory), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), and an MO (Magneto-Optical Disk). By storing and distributing in a recording medium and installing the program Pa in a computer, an apparatus for executing the above-described processing can be configured.

Further, the program Pa may be stored in a disk device included in a server device on a communication network represented by the Internet, and may be downloaded onto a computer by being superimposed on a carrier wave, for example.

The above-described processing can also be achieved by starting and executing the program Pa while transferring it over the network.

Furthermore, the above-described processing can also be achieved by executing all or part of the program Pa on the server device and executing the program Pa while the computer transmits / receives information related to the processing via the communication network. .

Note that when the above functions are realized by sharing an OS (Operating System), or when the functions are realized by cooperation between the OS and an application, only the part other than the OS may be stored in a medium and distributed. It may also be downloaded to a computer.

Further, the means for realizing the functions of the control device 10 and the water heater 20 is not limited to software, and a part or all of the means may be realized by dedicated hardware. For example, the instruction acquisition unit 11, surplus power prediction unit 13, determination unit 14, planning module 22, first control module 22 a, and second control module 22 b are integrated into an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). If the circuit is typified, the power consumption of the control device 10 and the water heater 20 can be reduced.

The present invention is capable of various embodiments and modifications without departing from the broad spirit and scope of the present invention. The above-described embodiments are for explaining the present invention and do not limit the scope of the present invention. In other words, the scope of the present invention is shown not by the embodiments but by the claims. Various modifications within the scope of the claims and within the scope of the equivalent invention are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

The water heater control system, control method, and program of the present invention are suitable for efficient use of electric power.

10 control device, 11 instruction acquisition unit, 12 transfer unit, 13 surplus power prediction unit, 14 determination unit, 19 storage unit, 20 water heater, 21 control unit, 22 plan module, 22a first control module, 22b second control module , 23 heat pump unit, 24 hot water storage tank, 30 distributed power source, 31 power conditioner, 32 relay unit, 40 measuring device, 41 first measurement value acquisition unit, 42 second measurement value acquisition unit, 50 second electrical device, 60 power server , 70 data server, 71 power generation consumption prediction unit, 81 power storage device, 82 electric vehicle, 100-104 water heater control system, HM housing, H1 processor, H2 main storage unit, H3 auxiliary storage unit, H4 input unit, H5 Output unit, H6 communication unit, H7 internal bus, L21, L22, La, Lc, Lg, Lp, lines, NW1 wide area network, NW2 home network, Pa program, PS commercial power system.

Claims

A water heater control system that controls a water heater that generates hot water using power supplied from at least one of a commercial power system and a distributed power source that supplies power to the commercial power system,
Instruction acquisition means for acquiring an instruction to suppress power supply from the distributed power source to the commercial power system in a first time;
When the water heater generates hot water at the first temperature at a second time different from the first time and the instruction is acquired by the instruction acquisition means, the water heater is supplied to the water heater at the first time. Control means for generating hot water having a second temperature higher than the first temperature;
A water heater control system.
First measurement value acquisition means for acquiring a measurement value of power generated by the distributed power source;
A second measurement value acquisition unit that includes the water heater, and acquires a measurement value of power consumption consumed in a house to which power from at least one of the distributed power source and the commercial power system is supplied; Prepared,
The control means includes
When the instruction is acquired by the instruction acquisition unit, the power consumption is smaller than the generated power even if the water heater generates hot water at the second temperature in the first time. When indicated by the measured value acquired by the measured value acquiring means and the measured value acquired by the second measured value acquiring means, the hot water heater generates hot water at the second temperature at the first time. ,
The water heater control system according to claim 1.
When the instruction is acquired by the instruction acquisition unit, the control unit causes the water heater to generate hot water having a third temperature lower than the second temperature within the first time period, and then performs the second operation. To produce hot water of temperature,
The water heater control system according to claim 1 or 2.
In the case where the instruction is acquired by the instruction acquisition unit and the distributed power source is connected to the power storage device via a power line, the control unit is configured to connect the second water heater to the water heater at the first time. Does not produce hot water of temperature,
The water heater control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.
A control method for controlling a water heater that generates hot water with power supplied from at least one of a commercial power system and a distributed power source that supplies power to the commercial power system,
A first control step of causing the water heater to generate hot water having a predetermined first temperature at a first time;
When it is instructed to suppress the supply of power from the distributed power source to the commercial power system at a second time that is different from the first time, the hot water heater is connected to the hot water heater at the second time. A second control step for generating hot water having a second temperature higher than one temperature;
Control method.
A computer that controls a water heater that generates hot water using power supplied from at least one of a commercial power system and a distributed power source that supplies power to the commercial power system;
First control means for generating hot water of a predetermined first temperature in the water heater at a first time;
When it is instructed to suppress the supply of power from the distributed power source to the commercial power system at a second time that is different from the first time, the hot water heater is connected to the hot water heater at the second time. Second control means for generating hot water having a second temperature higher than one temperature;
Program to function as.