Microbubble generating device

Abstract

The present invention provides a microbubble generating device, which has a storage tank, a storage tank supply path, a pressure pump, a storage tank discharge path, a microbubble generating nozzle provided in the storage tank discharge path, a storage tank circulation path, a storage tank circulation pump, a gas introduction mechanism provided in the storage tank circulation path, and a control device. The gas introduction mechanism has a decompression section through which the liquid passes under reduced pressure and a gas inlet for introducing gas through the negative pressure of the liquid in the decompression section. The control device can implement microbubble generation operation control, which means driving the pressure pump to pressurize and supply the liquid from the storage tank supply path to the storage tank and supply the pressurized liquid dissolved with gas from the storage tank to the liquid tank via the storage tank discharge path. During the implementation of the microbubble generation operation control, the storage tank circulation pump is driven to circulate the liquid in the storage tank in the storage tank circulation path, and the gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism is supplied to the storage tank. Accordingly, microbubbles can be continuously and stably generated in the liquid in the liquid tank.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to a fine bubble generating apparatus. Background Art

[0002] A fine bubble generating apparatus is disclosed in Patent Document 1, which includes: a storage tank that pressurizes and dissolves gas in a liquid; a storage tank supply path that supplies the liquid to the storage tank; a pressure pump disposed in the storage tank supply path; a storage tank discharge path that discharges the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved from the storage tank to a liquid tank; a fine bubble generating nozzle disposed in the storage tank discharge path that decompresses the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved to generate fine bubbles; a gas introduction mechanism disposed in the storage tank; and a control device. The gas introduction mechanism includes: a gas inlet that introduces the gas; and a gas introduction valve that opens and closes the gas inlet. The control device alternately performs gas introduction operation control and fine bubble generation operation control. The gas introduction operation control means that, with the gas introduction valve open, the liquid is supplied from the storage tank to the liquid tank, thereby introducing the gas into the storage tank. The fine bubble generation operation control means that, with the gas introduction valve closed, the pressure pump is driven to pressurize the liquid and supply it from the storage tank supply path to the storage tank, and the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved is supplied from the storage tank to the liquid tank via the storage tank discharge path.

[0003] [Prior Art Documents]

[0004] Patent Document

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2009-18118 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] In the fine bubble generating apparatus of Patent Document 1, gas is supplied to the storage tank during the gas introduction operation control, and gas is consumed from the storage tank during the fine bubble generation operation control. Therefore, it is necessary to alternately perform the gas introduction operation control and the fine bubble generation operation control. However, during the implementation of the gas introduction operation control, it is impossible to generate fine bubbles in the liquid supplied from the storage tank to the liquid tank. Therefore, the fine bubbles generated in the liquid in the liquid tank during the fine bubble generation operation control will disappear during the implementation of the gas introduction operation control, and it is difficult to continuously and stably generate fine bubbles in the liquid in the liquid tank. In this specification, a technology that can continuously and stably generate fine bubbles in the liquid in the liquid tank is provided.

[0008] [Technical means for solving technical problems]

[0009] The microbubble generating device disclosed in this specification includes a storage tank, a storage tank supply path, a pressure pump, a storage tank discharge path, a microbubble generating nozzle, a storage tank circulation path, a storage tank circulation pump, a gas introduction mechanism, and a control device. Among them, the storage tank is used to pressurize and dissolve gas in the liquid; the storage tank supply path is used to supply the liquid to the storage tank; the pressure pump is arranged on the storage tank supply path; the storage tank discharge path is used to discharge the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved from the storage tank to the liquid tank; the microbubble generating nozzle is arranged on the storage tank discharge path and is used to generate microbubbles by decompressing the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved; the storage tank circulation path is arranged separately from the storage tank discharge path and is used to transport the liquid from the outflow port connected to the storage tank to the inflow port connected to the storage tank; the storage tank circulation pump is arranged on the storage tank circulation path; the gas introduction mechanism is arranged on the storage tank circulation path. The gas introduction mechanism has a decompression part and a gas inlet. Among them, the decompression part allows the liquid to pass through under reduced pressure; the gas inlet introduces the gas through the negative pressure of the liquid in the decompression part. The control device can implement microbubble generation operation control, which means driving the pressure pump to pressurize and supply the liquid from the storage tank supply path to the storage tank, and supplying the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved from the storage tank to the liquid tank via the storage tank discharge path. In the microbubble generating device, during the implementation of the microbubble generation operation control, the control device drives the storage tank circulation pump to circulate the liquid in the storage tank in the storage tank circulation path, whereby the gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism is supplied to the storage tank.

[0010] In the above-mentioned microbubble generating device, even during the implementation of the microbubble generation operation control, the gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism can be supplied to the storage tank by driving the storage tank circulation pump. Therefore, there is no need to interrupt the microbubble generation operation control to supply gas to the storage tank, and the microbubble generation operation control can be continuously implemented. By adopting this structure, microbubbles can be continuously and stably generated in the liquid in the liquid tank.

[0011] In the microbubble generating device, it can also be that the gas introduction mechanism is arranged in the storage tank circulation path at a position upstream of the storage tank circulation pump.

[0012] According to the above structure, compared with the case where the gas introduction mechanism is arranged downstream of the storage tank circulation pump in the storage tank circulation path, the pressure of the liquid in the decompression part can be further reduced. By adopting this structure, the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism can be further increased. In addition, according to the above structure, when the gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism and the liquid flowing in the storage tank circulation path pass through the storage tank circulation pump, they are stirred by the impeller of the storage tank circulation pump, so the dissolution of gas in the liquid can be further promoted.

[0013] The microbubble generating device may also include a gas introduction valve, a first liquid level electrode, and a second liquid level electrode. Among them, the gas introduction valve is used to open and close the gas inlet; the first liquid level electrode can detect whether the liquid level of the storage tank is above the first liquid level; the second liquid level electrode can detect whether the liquid level of the storage tank is above the second liquid level higher than the first liquid level. The liquid level of the part where the outflow port leading to the storage tank circulation path is connected to the storage tank may also be lower than the first liquid level. The control device may also be configured such that, in the microbubble generation operation control, when the first liquid level electrode detects that the liquid level of the storage tank is lower than the first liquid level in the state where the gas introduction valve is open, the gas introduction valve is closed, and in the microbubble generation operation control, when the second liquid level electrode detects that the liquid level of the storage tank is higher than the second liquid level in the state where the gas introduction valve is closed, the gas introduction valve is opened.

[0014] During the implementation of the microbubble generation operation control, when the amount of gas consumed by the storage tank is less than the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism, the liquid level of the storage tank gradually decreases, and when the amount of gas consumed by the storage tank is more than the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism, the liquid level of the storage tank gradually rises. On the other hand, when the storage tank circulation pump is driven, if the gas introduction valve is open, gas is introduced by the gas introduction mechanism, and when the gas introduction valve is closed, gas is no longer introduced by the gas introduction mechanism. According to the above structure, the control device switches the opening and closing of the gas introduction valve according to the liquid level of the storage tank, whereby the amount of gas consumed by the storage tank and the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism can be balanced.

[0015] In the microbubble generating device, it may also be that, in the microbubble generation operation control, during the period when the gas introduction valve is in the closed state, the control device also continues to drive the storage tank circulation pump.

[0016] When driving the storage tank circulation pump to circulate the liquid in the storage tank through the storage tank circulation path, the flow of the liquid in the storage tank becomes rapid. In a pressure dissolution type storage tank, the more rapid the flow of the liquid in the storage tank, the more it promotes the pressure dissolution of gas in the liquid in the storage tank. According to the above structure, during the microbubble generation operation control, the storage tank circulation pump is continuously driven even when the gas introduction valve is in the closed state. Therefore, the liquid in the storage tank can flow rapidly, thereby further promoting the pressure dissolution of gas in the liquid in the storage tank.

[0017] In the microbubble generating device, it may also be that: the control device is configured such that during the microbubble generation operation control, the elapsed time is determined as the suction time, and the elapsed time refers to: from when the liquid level of the storage tank detected by the second liquid level electrode is higher than the second liquid level and the gas introduction valve is opened until the liquid level of the storage tank detected by the first liquid level electrode is lower than the first liquid level and the gas introduction valve is closed, and the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump is adjusted according to the suction time when the storage tank circulation pump is driven in the state where the gas introduction valve is opened thereafter.

[0018] During the microbubble generation operation control, in the state where the gas introduction valve is opened, when the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism is much more than the amount of gas consumed by the storage tank, the suction time is a very short time. On the contrary, during the microbubble generation operation control, in the state where the gas introduction valve is opened, when the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism is slightly more than the amount of gas consumed by the storage tank, the suction time is a very long time. The amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism varies according to the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump when the storage tank circulation pump is driven in the state where the gas introduction valve is opened. According to the above structure, the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump is adjusted according to the actual suction time during the microbubble generation operation control, and thereby the amount of gas consumed by the storage tank and the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism are maintained in an appropriate balance state, so that microbubbles can be continuously and stably generated in the liquid of the liquid tank.

[0019] In the microbubble generating device, it may also be that: the control device is configured such that when the suction time exceeds the first suction time, the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump is increased when the storage tank circulation pump is driven in the state where the gas introduction valve is opened thereafter, and when the suction time is shorter than the second suction time which is shorter than the first suction time, the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump is decreased when the storage tank circulation pump is driven in the state where the gas introduction valve is opened thereafter.

[0020] With the gas inlet valve open, the higher the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump, the greater the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism, and the lower the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump, the smaller the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism. According to the above structure, when the suction time is longer than the first suction time, that is, when the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism is less than expected, increasing the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump can increase the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism. Additionally, according to the above structure, when the suction time is shorter than the second suction time, that is, when the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism is more than expected, reducing the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump can reduce the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism.

[0021] Alternatively, the microbubble generating device may further include a first liquid level electrode and a second liquid level electrode. The first liquid level electrode can detect whether the liquid level of the storage tank is above the first liquid level; the second liquid level electrode can detect whether the liquid level of the storage tank is above a second liquid level that is higher than the first liquid level. The liquid level of the part where the outlet connecting to the storage tank circulation path is connected to the storage tank may also be lower than the first liquid level. The control device may be configured to reduce the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump when the first liquid level electrode detects that the liquid level of the storage tank is lower than the first liquid level during the microbubble generation operation control, and increase the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump when the second liquid level electrode detects that the liquid level of the storage tank is higher than the second liquid level during the microbubble generation operation control.

[0022] During the implementation of the microbubble generation operation control, when the amount of gas consumed by the storage tank is less than the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism, the liquid level of the storage tank gradually decreases, and when the amount of gas consumed by the storage tank is more than the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism, the liquid level of the storage tank gradually rises. On the other hand, when driving the storage tank circulation pump, if the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump is increased, the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism becomes more, and when the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump is decreased, the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism becomes less. According to the above structure, the control device adjusts the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump according to the liquid level of the storage tank, thereby enabling the balance between the amount of gas consumed by the storage tank and the amount of gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism.

[0023] In the microbubble generating device, it may also be that: the control device is configured to determine environmental parameters corresponding to the environment where the microbubble generating device is installed, and adjust the rotational speed of the pressure pump in the microbubble generation operation control according to the environmental parameters.

[0024] In the control of the microbubble generation operation, the appearance of the microbubbles generated in the liquid in the liquid tank changes according to the pressure in the storage tank when the microbubble generation operation is performed. Even when the pressure pump is driven in the same manner, sometimes the pressure in the storage tank when the microbubble generation operation is performed varies depending on the environment where the microbubble generating device is installed. According to the above structure, when the pressure in the storage tank when the microbubble generation operation is performed is affected by the environment where the microbubble generating device is installed, the rotation speed of the pressure pump is adjusted to offset this influence, whereby the pressure in the storage tank when the microbubble generation operation is performed can be stabilized.

[0025] In the microbubble generating device, it may also be that: the environmental parameters include the installation position of the liquid tank relative to the microbubble generating device, the pipe diameter of at least a part of the storage tank discharge path, the pipe length of at least a part of the storage tank discharge path, the pipe diameter of at least a part of the storage tank supply path, and / or the pipe length of at least a part of the storage tank supply path.

[0026] For example, when the liquid tank is installed at a position higher than the microbubble generating device, the pressure in the storage tank when the microbubble generation operation is performed becomes higher; when the liquid tank is installed at a position lower than the microbubble generating device, the pressure in the storage tank when the microbubble generation operation is performed becomes lower. In addition, when the pressure loss in the storage tank discharge path is large (for example, when the pipe diameter of at least a part of the storage tank discharge path is small or the pipe length is long), it is difficult to send the liquid from the storage tank to the storage tank discharge path. Therefore, the pressure in the storage tank when the microbubble generation operation is performed becomes higher. When the pressure loss in the storage tank discharge path is small (for example, when the pipe diameter of at least a part of the storage tank discharge path is large or the pipe length is short), it is easy to send the liquid from the storage tank to the storage tank discharge path. Therefore, the pressure in the storage tank when the microbubble generation operation is performed becomes lower. And when the pressure loss in the storage tank supply path is small (for example, when the pipe diameter of at least a part of the storage tank supply path is large or the pipe length is short), it is easy to send the liquid from the storage tank supply path to the storage tank. Therefore, the pressure in the storage tank when the microbubble generation operation is performed becomes higher. When the pressure loss in the storage tank supply path is large (for example, when the pipe diameter of at least a part of the storage tank supply path is small or the pipe length is long), it is difficult to send the liquid from the storage tank supply path to the storage tank. Therefore, the pressure in the storage tank when the microbubble generation operation is performed decreases. According to the above structure, the rotation speed of the pressure pump in the microbubble generation operation control is adjusted according to the environmental parameters that affect the pressure in the storage tank when the microbubble generation operation is performed. Therefore, the pressure in the storage tank when the microbubble generation operation is performed can be stabilized.

[0027] Alternatively, the microbubble generating device may also have a storage tank pressure sensor, which is disposed in the storage tank and is used to detect the pressure in the storage tank as the storage tank pressure. The control device may also be configured to adjust the rotation speed of the pressure pump according to the storage tank pressure detected by the storage tank pressure sensor during the microbubble generation operation control.

[0028] According to the above structure, even when the pressure in the storage tank during the microbubble generation operation control is affected by the environment where the microbubble generating device is installed or other factors, it is possible to stabilize the pressure in the storage tank during the microbubble generation operation control by adjusting the rotation speed of the pressure pump according to the actual storage tank pressure detected by the storage tank pressure sensor.

[0029] In the microbubble generating device, the control device may also be configured to, during the microbubble generation operation control, reduce the rotation speed of the pressure pump when the storage tank pressure detected by the storage tank pressure sensor exceeds the first storage tank pressure, and increase the rotation speed of the pressure pump when the storage tank pressure is lower than the second storage tank pressure which is lower than the first storage tank pressure.

[0030] According to the above structure, it is possible to keep the pressure in the storage tank during the microbubble generation operation control between the first storage tank pressure and the second storage tank pressure.

[0031] In the microbubble generating device, the liquid may be water, and the liquid tank may be a bathtub for users to take a bath.

[0032] According to the above structure, it is possible to continuously and stably generate microbubbles in the water of the bathtub for users to take a bath. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] Figure 1 is a diagram schematically showing the structure of the hot water device 2 according to Embodiment 1.

[0034] Figure 2 is a diagram schematically showing a cross-section of the bathtub adapter 132 of the hot water device 2 according to Embodiment 1.

[0035] Figure 3 is a flowchart of the processing performed by the control device 150 during the hot water injection operation control of the hot water device 2 according to Embodiment 1.

[0036] Figure 4 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the water flow in the hot water device 2 according to Embodiment 1.

[0037] Figure 5 is a diagram schematically showing another example of the water flow in the hot water device 2 according to Embodiment 1.

[0038] Figure 6 It is a flowchart of the process implemented by the control device 150 in the control of the microbubble generation operation of the hot water device 2 in Embodiment 1.

[0039] Figure 7 It is a diagram schematically showing another example of the flow of water in the hot water device 2 of Embodiment 1.

[0040] Figure 8 It is a diagram schematically showing another example of the flow of water in the hot water device 2 of Embodiment 1.

[0041] Figure 9 It is a flowchart of the process implemented by the control device 150 in the control of the microbubble generation operation of the hot water device 2 in Embodiment 2.

[0042] Figure 10 It is a flowchart of the process implemented by the control device 150 in the control of the microbubble generation operation of the hot water device 2 in Embodiment 3.

[0043] Figure 11 It is a diagram showing an example of the rotational speed correction of the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 in the hot water device 2 of Embodiment 4.

[0044] Figure 12 It is a diagram showing another example of the rotational speed correction of the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 in the hot water device 2 of Embodiment 4.

[0045] Figure 13 It is a diagram showing yet another example of the rotational speed correction of the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 in the hot water device 2 of Embodiment 4.

[0046] Figure 14 It is a diagram schematically showing the structure of the hot water device 2 of Embodiment 5.

[0047] Figure 15 It is in the control of the microbubble generation operation of the hot water device 2 in Embodiment 5, and the control device 150 Figure 6 The flowchart of the process implemented in parallel with the shown process.

[0048] Figure 16 It is a diagram schematically showing an example of the flow of water in the hot water device 2 of another modification.

[0049] Explanation of reference numerals

[0050] 2: Hot water device; 10: Heat source unit; 12: First heat source machine; 14: Second heat source machine; 16: Water supply path; 18: Hot water path; 18a: Hot water temperature thermistor; 20: Bypass path; 22: Bypass servo mechanism; 24: Hot water injection path; 26: Hot water injection valve; 28: Water volume sensor; 30: Circulation outlet path; 30a: Circulation outlet path thermistor; 32: Circulation loop; 32a: Circulation loop thermistor; 34: Bathtub circulation pump; 36: Flow switch; 50: Air pressurized dissolution unit; 52: Storage tank; 52a: Low water level electrode; 52b: High water level electrode; 52c: Ground electrode; 54: Storage tank pressure sensor; 60: Heat source loop; 62: First bathtub water path; 64: Storage tank outlet path; 66: Communication path; 68: Heat source outlet path; 70: Second bathtub water path; 74: Storage tank loop; 74a: Water inlet; 80: First three-way valve; 82: Second three-way valve; 84: Check valve; 86: Storage tank water supply valve; 88: First pressurizing pump; 90: Second pressurizing pump; 92: Storage tank circulation path; 92a: Outlet; 92b: Inlet; 94: Storage tank circulation pump; 96: Gas introduction mechanism; 98: Water inlet pipe; 100: Water outlet pipe; 102: Venturi tube; 104: Gas introduction path; 104a: Gas inlet; 106: Gas introduction valve; 130: Bathtub; 130a: Wall part; 132: Bathtub adapter; 132a: Front surface; 132b: Lower surface; 134a: First discharge port; 134b: First suction port; 134c: Second suction port; 134d: Second discharge port; 136: First water path; 136a: First discharge path; 136b: First suction path; 138: Second water path; 138a: Second discharge path; 138b: Second suction path; 140a: Check part; 140b: Check part; 140c: Check part; 140d: Check part; 142: Microbubble generation nozzle; 150: Control device; 152: Memory; 154: Remote control; 200: Water supply source; 250: Faucet. Detailed implementation mode

[0051] (Example 1)

[0052] As Figure 1 shown, the hot water device 2 of this embodiment has a heat source unit 10, an air pressurized dissolution unit 50, a bathtub adapter 132, and a control device 150. The hot water device 2 can heat the water supplied from a water supply source 200 such as tap water, and supply the water heated to a desired temperature to a faucet 250 provided in a kitchen or the like and a bathtub 130 provided in a bathroom. In addition, the hot water device 2 can generate microbubbles in the water of the bathtub 130 for users to take a bath.

[0053] (Structure of the heat source unit 10)

[0054] The heat source unit 10 includes a first heat source machine 12, a second heat source machine 14, a water supply path 16, a hot water path 18, a bypass path 20, a bypass servo mechanism 22, a hot water injection path 24, a hot water injection valve 26, a water volume sensor 28, a circulation outlet path 30, a circulation loop 32, a bathtub circulation pump 34, and a water flow switch 36.

[0055] The upstream end of the water supply path 16 is connected to a water supply source 200, and the downstream end of the water supply path 16 is connected to the first heat source machine 12. In addition, the upstream end of the hot water path 18 is connected to the first heat source machine 12, and the downstream end of the hot water path 18 is connected to a faucet 250. The first heat source machine 12 is, for example, a combustion heat source machine that heats water by burning gas. The first heat source machine 12 heats the water flowing in from the water supply path 16 and sends the heated water to the hot water path 18.

[0056] The upstream end of the bypass path 20 is connected to the water supply path 16, and the downstream end of the bypass path 20 is connected to the hot water path 18. The bypass servo mechanism 22 is provided at the portion where the bypass path 20 is connected to the water supply path 16. The bypass servo mechanism 22 can adjust the ratio of the flow rate of the water flowing from the water supply path 16 through the first heat source machine 12 to the hot water path 18 and the flow rate of the water flowing from the water supply path 16 through the bypass path 20 to the hot water path 18 by adjusting the opening degree of the built-in valve body. By adjusting the opening degree of the bypass servo mechanism 22, water that is a mixture of the high-temperature water flowing in from the first heat source machine 12 and the low-temperature water flowing in from the bypass path 20 and is adjusted to a desired temperature in a desired ratio is supplied to the hot water path 18 on the downstream side of the portion where the bypass path 20 is connected. A hot water temperature thermistor 18a is provided in the hot water path 18 on the downstream side of the portion where the bypass path 20 is connected, and the hot water temperature thermistor 18a detects the temperature of the water in the hot water path 18.

[0057] The upstream end of the hot water injection path 24 is connected to the hot water path 18 on the downstream side of the portion where the bypass path 20 is connected, and the downstream end of the hot water injection path 24 is connected to the circulation loop 32. The hot water injection valve 26 is provided in the hot water injection path 24 to open and close the hot water injection path 24. The hot water injection valve 26 is normally in a closed state. The water volume sensor 28 is provided in the hot water injection path 24 to detect the water volume of the water flowing through the hot water injection path 24.

[0058] The upstream end of the circulation loop 32 is connected to the heat source loop 60 (details will be described later) of the air pressurized dissolution unit 50, and the downstream end of the circulation loop 32 is connected to the second heat source machine 14. Additionally, the upstream end of the circulation return path 30 is connected to the second heat source machine 14, and the downstream end of the circulation return path 30 is connected to the heat source return path 68 (details will be described later) of the air pressurized dissolution unit 50. The second heat source machine 14 is, for example, a combustion heat source machine that heats water by burning gas. The second heat source machine 14 heats the water flowing in from the circulation loop 32 and sends the heated water to the circulation return path 30. Near the upstream end of the circulation loop 32, a circulation loop thermistor 32a for detecting the temperature of the water in the circulation loop 32 is provided. Near the downstream end of the circulation return path 30, a circulation return path thermistor 30a for detecting the temperature of the water in the circulation return path 30 is provided.

[0059] The bathtub circulation pump 34 is provided in the circulation loop 32 on the downstream side of the connection part of the hot water injection path 24, and sends the water in the circulation loop 32 to the second heat source machine 14. The water flow switch 36 is provided in the circulation loop 32 between the bathtub circulation pump 34 and the second heat source machine 14 to detect whether water flows through the circulation loop 32.

[0060] (Structure of the air pressurized dissolution unit 50)

[0061] The air pressurized dissolution unit 50 includes a storage tank 52, a heat source loop 60, a heat source return path 68, a storage tank loop 74, a storage tank return path 64, a communication path 66, a first three-way valve 80, a second three-way valve 82, a check valve 84, a storage tank water supply valve 86, a first pressurizing pump 88, a second pressurizing pump 90, a storage tank circulation path 92, a storage tank circulation pump 94, and a gas introduction mechanism 96.

[0062] The storage tank 52 can store water inside. Inside the storage tank 52, a low water level electrode 52a, a high water level electrode 52b, and a ground electrode 52c for detecting the water level inside the storage tank 52 are provided. The water level detected by the low water level electrode 52a (hereinafter also referred to as the lower limit water level) is lower than the water level detected by the high water level electrode 52b (hereinafter also referred to as the upper limit water level). When the low water level electrode 52a and the high water level electrode 52b come into contact with the water surface of the water stored in the storage tank 52, a current flows between the low water level electrode 52a, the high water level electrode 52b, and the ground electrode 52c, and thus an ON signal is output to the control device 150. The storage tank 52 is used to dissolve air in water to generate air-dissolved water.

[0063] One end of the heat source circuit 60 is connected to the communication path 66, and the other end of the heat source circuit 60 is connected to the circulation circuit 32 of the heat source unit 10. The communication path 66 connects the first three-way valve 80 and the second three-way valve 82. The communication path 66, the first bathtub water path 62, and the storage tank outlet path 64 are connected to the first three-way valve 80. The first three-way valve 80 can switch among a first communication state, a second communication state, and a third communication state. Among them, the first communication state is a state in which the storage tank outlet path 64 and the first bathtub water path 62 are in communication (refer to Figure 7 , Figure 8 ), the second communication state is a state in which the storage tank outlet path 64 is in communication with the communication path 66 (refer to Figure 1 ), and the third communication state is a state in which the first bathtub water path 62, the storage tank outlet path 64, and the communication path 66 are in communication (refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 ). The upstream end of the storage tank outlet path 64 is connected to the lower part of the storage tank 52, and the downstream end of the storage tank outlet path 64 is connected to the first three-way valve 80. A check valve 84 is provided on the storage tank outlet path 64, and this check valve 84 allows water to flow from the storage tank 52 to the first three-way valve 80 and prohibits water from flowing from the first three-way valve 80 to the storage tank 52. One end of the first bathtub water path 62 is connected to the first three-way valve 80, and the other end of the first bathtub water path 62 is connected to the bathtub adapter 132.

[0064] One end of the heat source outlet path 68 is connected to the circulation outlet path 30 of the heat source unit 10, and the other end of the heat source outlet path 68 is connected to the second three-way valve 82. The communication path 66, the heat source outlet path 68, and the second bathtub water path 70 are connected to the second three-way valve 82. The second three-way valve 82 can switch between a fourth communication state and a fifth communication state. Among them, the fourth communication state is a state in which the second bathtub water path 70 and the communication path 66 are in communication (refer to Figure 7 , Figure 8 ), and the fifth communication state is a state in which the heat source outlet path 68 and the second bathtub water path 70 are in communication (refer to Figure 1 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 ). One end of the second bathtub water path 70 is connected to the second three-way valve 82, and the other end of the second bathtub water path 70 is connected to the bathtub adapter 132.

[0065] The upstream end of the storage tank circuit 74 is connected to the heat source outlet path 68, and the downstream end of the storage tank circuit 74 is connected to the storage tank 52 through the water supply port 74a. A storage tank water supply valve 86 is provided in the storage tank circuit 74 to open and close the storage tank circuit 74. The storage tank water supply valve 86 is normally in a closed state. The first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 are provided in the storage tank circuit 74 between the storage tank water supply valve 86 and the storage tank 52. The first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 pressurize the water in the storage tank circuit 74 and send it to the storage tank 52. In the storage tank circuit 74, the first pressure pump 88 is arranged at a position upstream of the second pressure pump 90.

[0066] The upstream end of the storage tank circulation path 92 (hereinafter, also referred to as the outflow port 92a) is connected to the bottom of the storage tank 52, and the downstream end of the storage tank circulation path 92 (hereinafter, also referred to as the inflow port 92b) is connected to the top of the storage tank 52. The water level at the portion where the outflow port 92a of the storage tank circulation path 92 is connected to the storage tank 52 is lower than the lower limit water level detected by the low water level electrode 52a, and the water level at the portion where the inflow port 92b of the storage tank circulation path 92 is connected to the storage tank 52 is higher than the upper limit water level detected by the high water level electrode 52b. The storage tank circulation pump 94 is provided in the storage tank circulation path 92. The storage tank circulation pump 94 sucks the water in the storage tank 52 into the storage tank circulation path 92 through the outflow port 92a, and discharges the water in the storage tank circulation path 92 into the storage tank 52 through the inflow port 92b.

[0067] The gas introduction mechanism 96 is provided in the storage tank circulation path 92 on the upstream side of the storage tank circulation pump 94. The gas introduction mechanism 96 has a water inlet pipe 98, a water outlet pipe 100, a venturi tube 102, a gas introduction path 104, and a gas introduction valve 106. Water flows into the water inlet pipe 98 from the upstream side of the storage tank circulation path 92. The water outlet pipe 100 allows water to flow out to the downstream side of the storage tank circulation path 92. The venturi tube 102 connects the water inlet pipe 98 and the water outlet pipe 100. The diameter of the venturi tube 102 is smaller than the diameters of the water inlet pipe 98 and the water outlet pipe 100. The water flowing through the gas introduction mechanism 96 is decompressed to a pressure lower than the atmospheric pressure when flowing from the water inlet pipe 98 to the venturi tube 102, and is increased to the original pressure when flowing from the venturi tube 102 to the water outlet pipe 100. The upstream end of the gas introduction path 104 (hereinafter, also referred to as the gas introduction port 104a) is open to the atmosphere, and the downstream end is connected to the venturi tube 102. The gas introduction valve 106 is provided in the gas introduction path 104 to open and close the gas introduction path 104. When water flows through the gas introduction mechanism 96, in the case where the gas introduction valve 106 is in an open state, air is sucked into the gas introduction path 104 from the gas introduction port 104a, and the air is mixed with the water flowing through the venturi tube 102. The air introduced by the gas introduction path 104 flows into the storage tank 52 together with the water flowing through the storage tank circulation path 92. The gas introduction valve 106 is in a closed state during normal times.

[0068] Assume that when the gas introduction mechanism 96 is provided in the storage tank circuit 74 as described above, air can be introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 when water is supplied from the storage tank circuit 74 to the storage tank 52. However, in the case of adopting such a structure, the pressure loss of the storage tank circuit 74 will become large, and the pressure of the water delivered to the storage tank 52 by the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 will decrease. In addition, in the case of adopting such a structure, when the amount of air introduced into the gas introduction mechanism 96 is increased, the pressure of the water delivered to the storage tank 52 decreases, and when the pressure of the water delivered to the storage tank 52 is increased, the amount of air introduced into the gas introduction mechanism 96 decreases. In contrast, in the present embodiment, since the gas introduction mechanism 96 is provided on the storage tank circulation path 92 provided independently of the storage tank circuit 74, the pressure loss of the storage tank circuit 74 can be reduced. In addition, a large amount of air can be introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 while water is being delivered from the storage tank circuit 74 to the storage tank 52 at a high pressure.

[0069] (Structure of the bathtub adapter 132)

[0070] Next, the bathtub adapter 132 provided on the wall portion 130a of the bathtub 130 will be described with reference to Figure 2 (a) and (b) in. Figure 2 (a) in shows the flow of water in the bathtub adapter 132 in a state where water flows from the first bathtub water passage 62 to the bathtub 130 and water flows from the bathtub 130 to the second bathtub water passage 70 (for example, Figure 7 the state). Figure 2 (b) in shows the flow of water in the bathtub adapter 132 in a state where water flows from the bathtub 130 to the first bathtub water passage 62 and water flows from the second bathtub water passage 70 to the bathtub 130 (for example, Figure 5 the state).

[0071] The bathtub adapter 132 has a first water passage 136 and a second water passage 138. The first water passage 136 communicates with the first bathtub water passage 62, and the second water passage 138 communicates with the second bathtub water passage 70. The first water passage 136 branches into a first discharge path 136a and a first suction path 136b. The first discharge path 136a communicates with a first discharge port 134a provided on the front surface 132a of the bathtub adapter 132. The water discharged from the first discharge port 134a to the bathtub 130 is discharged in a direction forward of the wall portion 130a of the bathtub 130, that is, in a direction perpendicular to the wall portion 130a of the bathtub 130. On the first discharge path 136a, there are provided: a check portion 140a that prevents water from flowing from the bathtub 130 to the first bathtub water passage 62; and a microbubble generating nozzle 142 that is disposed at a position upstream (on the first bathtub water passage 62 side) of the check portion 140a. The microbubble generating nozzle 142 decompresses the water passing through the microbubble generating nozzle 142. The first suction path 136b communicates with a first suction port 134b provided on the front surface 132a of the bathtub adapter 132. On the first suction path 136b, there is provided a check portion 140b that prevents water from flowing from the first bathtub water passage 62 to the bathtub 130.

[0072] The second water passage 138 branches into a second discharge path 138a and a second suction path 138b. The second suction path 138b communicates with a second suction port 134c provided on the front surface 132a of the bathtub adapter 132. On the second suction path 138b, there is provided a check portion 140c that prevents water from flowing from the second bathtub water passage 70 to the bathtub 130. The second discharge path 138a communicates with a second discharge port 134d provided on the lower surface 132b of the bathtub adapter 132. The water discharged from the second discharge port 134d is discharged downward, that is, in a direction parallel to the wall portion 130a of the bathtub 130. On the second discharge path 138a, there is provided a check portion 140d that prevents water from flowing from the bathtub 130 to the second bathtub water passage 70.

[0073] (Structure of the control device 150)

[0074] Figure 1 The illustrated control device 150 controls the operations of the respective structural elements of the heat source unit 10 and the air pressurization and dissolution unit 50. The control device 150 is configured to be able to communicate with a remote controller 154 that can be operated and controlled by a user. The control device 150 has a memory 152 that can store various settings such as the set temperature or set water volume in the hot water injection operation control input by the user, and the set temperature in the reheating operation control. The user can instruct the start or end of the hot water injection operation control, the microbubble generation operation control, and the reheating operation control described later through the remote controller 154.

[0075] (Hot water injection operation control)

[0076] The hot water injection operation control starts when the user instructs to start the hot water injection operation control through the remote controller 154. Alternatively, the hot water injection operation control can also start when the user preset the start time of the hot water injection operation control through the remote controller 154 and the control device 150 determines that the start time of the hot water injection operation control has arrived. When starting the hot water injection operation control, the control device 150 sets the first three-way valve 80 and the second three-way valve 82 to the third communication state and the fifth communication state respectively (refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 ). In this state, the control device 150 implements the Figure 3 -shown processing.

[0077] In S2, the control device 150 implements an exhaust process. Specifically, the control device 150 opens the hot water injection valve 26 and starts heating the water by the first heat source machine 12. Accordingly, as Figure 4 shown, the water adjusted to the set temperature flows from the hot water path 18 through the hot water injection path 24 into the circulation loop 32. The water flowing into the circulation loop 32 is divided into flowing upstream (i.e., the heat source loop 60) and downstream (i.e., the second heat source machine 14). The water flowing from the circulation loop 32 to the heat source loop 60 flows into the bathtub 130 through the communication path 66, the first three-way valve 80, the first bathtub water path 62, and the bathtub adapter 132. In addition, the water flowing from the circulation loop 32 to the second heat source machine 14 flows into the bathtub 130 through the circulation return path 30, the heat source return path 68, the second three-way valve 82, the second bathtub water path 70, and the bathtub adapter 132. Accordingly, the interiors of the first bathtub water path 62 and the second bathtub water path 70 are filled with water, and the air remaining in the interiors of the first bathtub water path 62 and the second bathtub water path 70 is discharged to the bathtub 130. When the cumulative water volume detected by the water volume sensor 28 reaches a specified value (e.g., 6L), the control device 150 closes the hot water injection valve 26 and ends the heating of the first heat source machine 12, thereby ending the exhaust process.

[0078] In S4, the control device 150 implements a remaining water detection process for the bathtub 130. Specifically, as Figure 5As shown, the control device 150 drives the bathtub circulation pump 34 and determines whether there is remaining water in the bathtub 130 based on whether the water flow switch 36 detects water flow. When there is no remaining water in the bathtub 130 and the bathtub adapter 132 is not immersed in water, even if the bathtub circulation pump 34 is driven, the water flow switch 36 cannot detect water flow. In contrast, when there is remaining water in the bathtub 130 and the bathtub adapter 132 is immersed in water, when the bathtub circulation pump 34 is driven, the water flow switch 36 detects water flow. When there is remaining water in the bathtub 130 in S4 (when the condition is yes), the process proceeds to S6. When there is no remaining water in the bathtub 130 in S4 (when the condition is no), the process proceeds to S10.

[0079] In S6, the control device 150 performs a determination process for the remaining water volume in the bathtub 130. Specifically, the control device 150 drives the bathtub circulation pump 34 and stores the temperature detected by the circulation loop thermistor 32a as the pre-heating temperature. After that, the control device 150 starts heating the water by the second heat source machine 14. Accordingly, as Figure 5 shown, the remaining water in the bathtub 130 is conveyed to the second heat source machine 14 via the bathtub adapter 132, the first bathtub waterway 62, the first three-way valve 80, the communication path 66, the heat source circuit 60, and the circulation circuit 32. The remaining water heated by the second heat source machine 14 returns to the bathtub 130 via the circulation return path 30, the heat source return path 68, the second three-way valve 82, the second bathtub waterway 70, and the bathtub adapter 132. When the temperature detected by the circulation loop thermistor 32a reaches above the set temperature, the control device 150 stores the temperature detected by the circulation loop thermistor 32a as the post-heating temperature, then stops the bathtub circulation pump 34, and ends the heating of the water by the second heat source machine 14. Then, the control device 150 calculates the remaining water volume in the bathtub 130 based on the temperature rise obtained by subtracting the pre-heating temperature from the post-heating temperature and the cumulative heating amount in the second heat source machine 14 in S6.

[0080] In S8, the control device 150 subtracts the remaining water volume in the bathtub 130 determined in S6 from the set water volume in the hot water injection operation control, and updates the set water volume in the hot water injection operation control.

[0081] In S10, the control device 150 opens the hot water injection valve 26 and starts heating by the first heat source machine 12. Accordingly, as Figure 4As shown, the water adjusted to the set temperature flows from the hot water path 18 into the circulation loop 32 via the hot water injection path 24. The water flowing into the circulation loop 32 branches into two directions: one flows upstream (i.e., towards the heat source loop 60), and the other flows downstream (i.e., towards the second heat source machine 14). The water flowing from the circulation loop 32 towards the heat source loop 60 flows into the bathtub 130 via the communication path 66, the first three-way valve 80, the first bathtub water path 62, and the bathtub adapter 132. The water flowing from the circulation loop 32 towards the second heat source machine 14 flows into the bathtub 130 via the circulation return path 30, the heat source return path 68, the second three-way valve 82, the second bathtub water path 70, and the bathtub adapter 132.

[0082] In S12, the control device 150 stands by until the cumulative water volume detected by the water volume sensor 28 reaches the set water volume in the hot water injection operation control. In addition, the so-called cumulative water volume here refers to the water volume obtained by adding up the cumulative water volume detected by the water volume sensor 28 during the exhaust gas treatment in S2 and the cumulative water volume after starting to inject hot water into the bathtub 130 in S10. When the cumulative water volume reaches the set water volume (when it is "yes"), the process proceeds to S14.

[0083] In S14, the control device 150 closes the hot water injection valve 26 and ends the heating of water by the first heat source machine 12.

[0084] In S16, the control device 150 drives the bathtub circulation pump 34 and obtains the temperature detected by the circulation loop thermistor 32a as the bathtub water temperature. Then, the control device 150 determines whether the bathtub water temperature is above the set temperature. If the bathtub water temperature has not reached the set temperature (when it is "no"), the process proceeds to S18. If the bathtub water temperature is above the set temperature (when it is "yes"), the process proceeds to S20.

[0085] In S18, the control device 150 performs the reheating process of the water in the bathtub 130. Specifically, the control device 150 drives the bathtub circulation pump 34 and starts heating the water by the second heat source machine 14. Accordingly, as Figure 5 shown, the water in the bathtub 130 is transported to the second heat source machine 14 via the bathtub adapter 132, the first bathtub water path 62, the first three-way valve 80, the communication path 66, the heat source loop 60, and the circulation loop 32. The water heated by the second heat source machine 14 returns to the bathtub 130 via the circulation return path 30, the heat source return path 68, the second three-way valve 82, the second bathtub water path 70, and the bathtub adapter 132. When the temperature detected by the circulation loop thermistor 32a reaches above the set temperature, the control device 150 stops the bathtub circulation pump 34 and ends the heating of water by the second heat source machine 14.

[0086] In S20, the control device 150 notifies the user via the remote controller 154 that the hot water injection operation control has ended. Figure 3 The processing is completed.

[0087] (Micro bubble generation operation control)

[0088] The micro-bubble generation operation control starts when the user instructs to start the micro-bubble generation operation control using the remote controller 154. In addition, in the water heater 2 of this embodiment, the micro-bubble generation operation control also starts automatically after the above-mentioned hot water injection operation control is completed. That is, the micro-bubble generation operation control is implemented in conjunction with the implementation of the hot water injection operation control. When the micro-bubble generation operation control is started, the control device 150 makes the first three-way valve 80 and the second three-way valve 82 respectively enter the third connection state and the fifth connection state (refer to Figure 4 、 Figure 5 ). In this state, the control device 150 implements Figure 6 The processing shown.

[0089] In S32, the control device 150 performs a cold water relief process. Specifically, when the temperature detected by the circulation outgoing path thermistor 30a and the circulation return path thermistor 32a is below a predetermined temperature, the control device 150 drives the bathtub circulation pump 34 and starts heating the water by the second heat source unit 14. When low-temperature water remains in the circulation outgoing path 30 and the circulation return path 32, the cold water relief process is performed. Figure 5 As shown, this low-temperature water flows into bathtub adapter 132 via heat source outflow path 68, second three-way valve 82, and second bathtub water path 70, and is discharged into bathtub 130 from second outlet 134d on lower surface 132b of bathtub adapter 132. Therefore, even if a user is bathing in bathtub 130, this prevents the low-temperature water from being directly discharged onto the user's body. When a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the cold water relief process, control device 150 stops bathtub circulation pump 34 and terminates water heating by second heat source unit 14, thereby terminating the cold water relief process.

[0090] In S34 , the control device 150 drives the tank circulation pump 94 , thereby circulating water between the tank 52 and the tank circulation path 92 .

[0091] In S36 , the control device 150 opens the gas introduction valve 106 , thereby introducing air into the water flowing through the gas introduction mechanism 96 of the tank circulation path 92 .

[0092] In S38, the control device 150 starts to supply air-dissolved water from the storage tank 52 to the bathtub 130. Specifically, Figure 7As shown, the control device 150 sets the first three-way valve 80 to the first communication state, sets the second three-way valve 82 to the fourth communication state, and drives the bathtub circulation pump 34, the first pressurization pump 88, and the second pressurization pump 90. Accordingly, the water in the bathtub 130 is supplied to the storage tank 52 via the bathtub adapter 132, the second bathtub water path 70, the second three-way valve 82, the communication path 66, the heat source circuit 60, the circulation circuit 32, the second heat source machine 14, the circulation return path 30, the heat source return path 68, and the storage tank circuit 74. At this time, the water pressurized by the first pressurization pump 88 and the second pressurization pump 90 is supplied from the storage tank circuit 74 to the storage tank 52. Accordingly, air is pressurized and dissolved in the water inside the storage tank 52. Then, the water with air pressurized and dissolved therein is supplied from the storage tank 52 to the bathtub 130 via the storage tank return path 64, the first three-way valve 80, the first bathtub water path 62, and the bathtub adapter 132. At this time, when the water with air pressurized and dissolved therein passes through the microbubble generation nozzle 142 of the first discharge path 136a of the bathtub adapter 132, it is depressurized below atmospheric pressure, and when it is sprayed into the bathtub 130, it is pressurized to atmospheric pressure, causing microbubbles to be generated in the water of the bathtub 130.

[0093] In S40, the control device 150 determines whether the water level in the storage tank 52 is lower than the lower limit water level based on the detection signal from the low water level electrode 52a. In the present embodiment, in the gas introduction mechanism 96, the amount of air introduced when the gas introduction valve 106 is opened is larger than the amount of air in the microbubbles generated in the water of the bathtub 130. Therefore, in the state where the gas introduction valve 106 is open, the amount of air in the storage tank 52 increases, and the water level in the storage tank 52 drops. When the water level in the storage tank 52 is lower than the lower limit water level (when it is yes), the process proceeds to S42. When the water level in the storage tank 52 is above the lower limit water level (when it is no), the process proceeds to S44.

[0094] In S42, when the gas introduction valve 106 is in the open state, the control device 150 closes the gas introduction valve 106. Accordingly, the introduction of air into the water flowing through the gas introduction mechanism 96 of the storage tank circulation path 92 is stopped. Further, in the present embodiment, during the period when the gas introduction valve 106 is closed, the storage tank circulation pump 94 continues to be driven. Accordingly, the flow of the water inside the storage tank 52 is promoted, thereby promoting the pressurized dissolution of air in the water in the storage tank 52.

[0095] In S44, the control device 150 determines whether the water level in the storage tank 52 is above the upper limit water level based on the detection signal from the high water level electrode 52b. In a state where the gas introduction valve 106 is closed, air is not supplied to the storage tank 52. Therefore, the amount of air in the storage tank 52 decreases, and the water level in the storage tank 52 rises. When the water level in the storage tank 52 is above the upper limit water level (when it is yes), the process proceeds to S46. When the water level in the storage tank 52 is below the upper limit water level (when it is no), the process proceeds to S48.

[0096] In S46, the control device 150 opens the gas introduction valve 106 when the gas introduction valve 106 is in a closed state. Accordingly, air introduction into the water of the gas introduction mechanism 96 flowing through the storage tank circulation path 92 starts again.

[0097] In S48, the control device 150 determines whether the operation control time of the microbubble generation operation control has reached the set time. Here, the operation control time of the microbubble generation operation control is the elapsed time since the start of the microbubble generation operation control. In the hot water device 2 of the present embodiment, when the microbubble generation operation control is performed independently without being linked to the execution of the hot water injection operation control, the set time is set to, for example, 10 minutes. In contrast, when the microbubble generation operation control is performed in linkage with the execution of the hot water injection operation control, the set time is set to, for example, 30 minutes. When the operation control time has not reached the set time (when it is no), the process returns to S40. When the operation control time reaches the set time (when it is yes), the process proceeds to S50.

[0098] In S50, the control device 150 stops the bathtub circulation pump 34, the first pressurizing pump 88, and the second pressurizing pump 90, and ends the supply of air-dissolved water from the storage tank 52 to the bathtub 130.

[0099] In S52, the control device 150 closes the gas introduction valve 106 when the gas introduction valve 106 is in an open state. Accordingly, the air introduction into the water of the gas introduction mechanism 96 flowing through the storage tank circulation path 92 ends.

[0100] In S54, the control device 150 performs a storage tank cleaning process. Specifically, the control device 150 opens the hot water injection valve 26 and starts heating the water by the first heat source machine 12. Accordingly, as Figure 8As shown, the water adjusted to the set temperature flows from the hot water path 18 into the circulation circuit 32 via the hot water injection path 24. The water flowing into the circulation circuit 32 branches into a flow upstream (i.e., the heat source circuit 60) and a flow downstream (i.e., the second heat source machine 14). The water flowing from the circulation circuit 32 to the heat source circuit 60 flows into the bathtub 130 via the communication path 66, the second three-way valve 82, the second bathtub water path 70, and the bathtub adapter 132. In addition, the water flowing from the circulation circuit 32 to the second heat source machine 14 flows into the bathtub 130 via the circulation return path 30, the heat source return path 68, the storage tank circuit 74, the storage tank 52, the storage tank return path 64, the first three-way valve 80, the first bathtub water path 62, and the bathtub adapter 132. Accordingly, the inside of the storage tank 52 and the storage tank circulation path 92 are cleaned.

[0101] In S56, the control device 150 stops the storage tank circulation pump 94. Accordingly, the circulation of the water between the storage tank 52 and the storage tank circulation path 92 ends. After S56, Figure 6 the process ends.

[0102] (Reheating operation control)

[0103] The reheating operation control starts when the user instructs to start the reheating operation control through the remote controller 154. When starting the reheating operation control, the control device 150 sets the first three-way valve 80 to the third communication state and sets the second three-way valve 82 to the fifth communication state (refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 ). In this state, the control device 150 drives the bathtub circulation pump 34 and starts heating the water by the second heat source machine 14. Accordingly, as Figure 5 shown, the water in the bathtub 130 is conveyed to the second heat source machine 14 via the bathtub adapter 132, the first bathtub water path 62, the first three-way valve 80, the communication path 66, the heat source circuit 60, and the circulation circuit 32. The water heated by the second heat source machine 14 returns to the bathtub 130 via the circulation return path 30, the heat source return path 68, the second three-way valve 82, the second bathtub water path 70, and the bathtub adapter 132. When the temperature detected by the circulation circuit thermistor 32a reaches above the set temperature, the control device 150 stops the bathtub circulation pump 34 and ends the heating of the water by the second heat source machine 14. After that, the control device 150 notifies the user through the remote controller 154 that the reheating operation control is completed and ends the reheating operation control.

[0104] (Embodiment 2)

[0105] The hot water device 2 of this embodiment has substantially the same structure as the hot water device 2 of Embodiment 1. In the hot water device 2 of this embodiment, when implementing the microbubble generation operation control, instead of implementing the process shown in Figure 6 , the control device 150 implementsFigure 9 The processing shown below. Next, for Figure 9 the processing shown and Figure 6 the differences between the processing shown will be described.

[0106] In Figure 9 the processing shown, in S40, when the water level in the storage tank 52 is lower than the lower limit water level (when it is yes), the processing proceeds to S58. In S58, the control device 150 reduces the rotation speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94. Accordingly, the amount of air introduced into the water of the gas introduction mechanism 96 flowing through the storage tank circulation path 92 is reduced. After S58, the processing proceeds to S44.

[0107] In addition, in Figure 9 the processing shown, in S44, when the water level in the storage tank 52 is above the upper limit water level (when it is yes), the processing proceeds to S60. In S60, the control device 150 increases the rotation speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94. Accordingly, the amount of air introduced into the water of the gas introduction mechanism 96 flowing through the storage tank circulation path 92 is increased. After S58, the processing proceeds to S48.

[0108] (Example 3)

[0109] The hot water device 2 of this embodiment has substantially the same structure as the hot water device 2 of Example 1. In the hot water device 2 of this embodiment, when performing the microbubble generation operation control, instead of performing Figure 6 the processing shown, the control device 150 performs Figure 10 the processing shown. Next, for Figure 10 the differences between the processing shown and Figure 6 the processing shown will be described.

[0110] In Figure 10 the processing shown, after starting to supply air-dissolved water from the storage tank 52 to the bathtub 130 in S38, the processing proceeds to S62. In S62, the control device 150 determines whether the water level in the storage tank 52 is lower than the lower limit water level based on the detection signal from the low water level electrode 52a. When the water level in the storage tank 52 is above the lower limit water level (when it is no), the processing repeats S62. When the water level in the storage tank 52 is lower than the lower limit water level (when it is yes), the processing proceeds to S64.

[0111] In S64, the control device 150 closes the gas introduction valve 106. Accordingly, the introduction of air into the water of the gas introduction mechanism 96 flowing through the storage tank circulation path 92 is stopped. In addition, in this embodiment, during the period when the gas introduction valve 106 is closed, the storage tank circulation pump 94 is also continuously driven. Accordingly, the flow of water in the storage tank 52 is promoted, thereby promoting the pressurized dissolution of air in the water in the storage tank 52.

[0112] In S66, the control device 150 determines whether the water level in the storage tank 52 is above the upper limit water level according to the detection signal from the high water level electrode 52b. When the water level in the storage tank 52 is above the upper limit water level (when it is yes), the process proceeds to S68. When the water level in the storage tank 52 is below the upper limit water level (when it is no), the process proceeds to S72.

[0113] In S68, the control device 150 opens the gas introduction valve 106. Accordingly, the introduction of air into the water of the gas introduction mechanism 96 flowing through the storage tank circulation path 92 is started again.

[0114] In S70, the control device 150 starts timing the suction time using a built-in timer (not shown).

[0115] In S72, the control device 150 determines whether the water level in the storage tank 52 is below the lower limit water level according to the detection signal from the low water level electrode 52a. When the water level in the storage tank 52 is above the lower limit water level (when it is no), the process proceeds to S86. When the water level in the storage tank 52 is below the lower limit water level (when it is yes), the process proceeds to S74.

[0116] In S74, the control device 150 closes the gas introduction valve 106. Accordingly, the introduction of air into the water of the gas introduction mechanism 96 flowing through the storage tank circulation path 92 is stopped.

[0117] In S76, the control device 150 ends the timing of the suction time based on a built-in timer (not shown).

[0118] In S78, the control device 150 determines whether the suction time measured in S70 and S76 is shorter than a specified lower limit time (for example, 10 seconds). When the suction time is shorter than the lower limit time (when it is yes), the process proceeds to S80. When the suction time is above the lower limit time (when it is no), the process proceeds to S82.

[0119] In S80, the control device 150 reduces the rotation speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 by a specified value (for example, 10 Hz). Accordingly, when the storage tank circulation pump 94 is driven in the state where the gas introduction valve 106 is open thereafter, the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 decreases. After S80, the process proceeds to S82.

[0120] In S82, the control device 150 determines whether the suction time exceeds a specified upper limit time (for example, 20 seconds). When the suction time exceeds the upper limit time (when it is yes), the process proceeds to S84. When the suction time is below the upper limit time (when it is no), the process proceeds to S86.

[0121] In S84, the control device 150 increases the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 by a specified value (for example, 10 Hz). Accordingly, thereafter, when the storage tank circulation pump 94 is driven with the gas introduction valve 106 open, the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 increases. After S84, the process proceeds to S86.

[0122] In S86, the control device 150 determines whether the operation control time of the microbubble generation operation control has reached the set time. When the operation control time has not reached the set time (when the answer is no), the process returns to S66. When the operation control time reaches the set time (when the answer is yes), the process proceeds to S50.

[0123] In addition, in Figure 10 In S80 of the process shown, the control device 150 may also be configured to reduce the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 when the storage tank circulation pump 94 is driven with the gas introduction valve 106 open thereafter, but not to reduce the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 when the storage tank circulation pump 94 is driven with the gas introduction valve 106 closed thereafter. Similarly, in Figure 10 In S84 of the process shown, the control device 150 may also be configured to increase the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 when the storage tank circulation pump 94 is driven with the gas introduction valve 106 open thereafter, but not to increase the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 when the storage tank circulation pump 94 is driven with the gas introduction valve 106 closed thereafter.

[0124] (Example 4)

[0125] The hot water device 2 of this embodiment has substantially the same structure as the hot water device 2 of Example 1. In the hot water device 2 of this embodiment, the control device 150 corrects the rotational speeds when driving the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 in the microbubble generation operation control (refer to Figure 6 ) according to the installation position of the bathtub 130, the pipe diameter and pipe length of the first bathtub waterway 62, and the pipe diameter and pipe length of the second bathtub waterway 70. The installation position of the bathtub 130, the pipe diameter and pipe length of the first bathtub waterway 62, and the pipe diameter and pipe length of the second bathtub waterway 70 are input to the control device 150 by, for example, a dual in-line package switch (not shown) provided in the control device 150 by a construction worker when installing the hot water device 2 in a house.

[0126] For example, as Figure 11 shown, the control device 150 determines the correction amount for the rotational speeds of the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 according to the installation position of the bathtub 130. In Figure 11In the example shown, when the installation position of the bathtub 130 (e.g., the installation position of the bathtub adapter 132 installed on the bathtub 130) is at the same height as the installation position of the air pressurized dissolution unit 50 (e.g., the connection position of the first bathtub water passage 62 and the second bathtub water passage 70 in the air pressurized dissolution unit 50) (denoted as "horizontal" in Figure 11 ), the control device 150 sets the correction amount to ±0 Hz. In contrast, when the installation position of the bathtub 130 is 1.5 m below the installation position of the air pressurized dissolution unit 50 (denoted as "1.5 m below" in Figure 11 ), the control device 150 sets the correction amount to +5 Hz. Further, when the installation position of the bathtub 130 is 3 m above the installation position of the air pressurized dissolution unit 50 (denoted as "3 m above" in Figure 11 ), the control device 150 sets the correction amount to -5 Hz, and when the installation position of the bathtub 130 is 5 m above the installation position of the air pressurized dissolution unit 50 (set as "5 m above" in Figure 11 ), the control device 150 sets the correction amount to -10 Hz.

[0127] When the installation position of the bathtub 130 is higher than the installation position of the air pressurized dissolution unit 50, the pressure in the storage tank 52 during the microbubble generation operation control becomes correspondingly higher. On the contrary, when the installation position of the bathtub 130 is lower than the installation position of the air pressurized dissolution unit 50, the pressure in the storage tank 52 during the microbubble generation operation control is correspondingly reduced. Therefore, as Figure 11 shown, by correcting in such a way that the rotation speeds of the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 are increased when the installation position of the bathtub 130 is high, and the rotation speeds of the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 are decreased when the installation position of the bathtub 130 is low, the influence of the difference in the installation position of the bathtub 130 on the pressure in the storage tank 52 can be suppressed.

[0128] And / or, as Figure 12 shown, the control device 150 determines the correction amount of the rotation speeds of the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 according to the pipe diameter and the pipe length of the first bathtub water passage 62 (denoted as "discharge side pipe" in Figure 12 ). In Figure 12In the example shown, when the pipe diameter of the first bathtub water passage 62 is 10 mm, if the pipe length of the first bathtub water passage 62 is less than 5 m, the control device 150 sets the correction amount to +5 Hz; if the pipe length of the first bathtub water passage 62 is 5 m or more and less than 10 m, the control device 150 sets the correction amount to ±0 Hz; if the pipe length of the first bathtub water passage 62 is 10 m or more and less than 15 m, the control device 150 sets the correction amount to -5 Hz. Additionally, when the pipe diameter of the first bathtub water passage 62 is 13 mm, if the pipe length of the first bathtub water passage 62 is less than 5 m, the control device 150 sets the correction amount to +10 Hz; if the pipe length of the first bathtub water passage 62 is 5 m or more and less than 10 m, the control device 150 sets the correction amount to +5 Hz; if the pipe length of the first bathtub water passage 62 is 10 m or more and less than 15 m, the control device 150 sets the correction amount to ±0 Hz.

[0129] When the pressure loss of the first bathtub water passage 62 is large, it is difficult for the air-dissolved water to flow out from the storage tank 52 to the bathtub 130. Therefore, the pressure in the storage tank 52 during the microbubble generation operation control becomes correspondingly higher. On the contrary, when the pressure loss of the first bathtub water passage 62 is small, the air-dissolved water easily flows out from the storage tank 52 to the bathtub 130. Therefore, the pressure in the storage tank 52 during the microbubble generation operation control decreases correspondingly. When the pipe diameter of the first bathtub water passage 62 is small or the pipe length of the first bathtub water passage 62 is long, the pressure loss of the first bathtub water passage 62 becomes large. When the pipe diameter of the first bathtub water passage 62 is large or the pipe length of the first bathtub water passage 62 is short, the pressure loss of the first bathtub water passage 62 becomes small. Therefore, as Figure 12 shown, when the pipe diameter of the first bathtub water passage 62 is large or the pipe length of the first bathtub water passage 62 is short (i.e., when the pressure loss of the first bathtub water passage 62 is small), the rotation speeds of the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 are increased. When the pipe diameter of the first bathtub water passage 62 is small or the pipe length of the first bathtub water passage 62 is long (i.e., when the pressure loss of the first bathtub water passage 62 is large), the rotation speeds of the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 are decreased. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the influence of the differences in the pipe diameter and pipe length of the first bathtub water passage 62 on the pressure in the storage tank 52.

[0130] And / or, as Figure 13 shown, the control device 150 determines the correction amount for the rotation speeds of the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 according to the pipe diameter and pipe length of the second bathtub water passage 70 (denoted as "suction side pipe" in Figure 13 . Figure 13In the example shown, when the pipe diameter of the second bathtub water passage 70 is 10 mm, if the pipe length of the second bathtub water passage 70 is less than 5 m, the control device 150 sets the correction amount to -10 Hz; if the pipe length of the second bathtub water passage 70 is 5 m or more and less than 10 m, the control device 150 sets the correction amount to ±0 Hz; if the pipe length of the second bathtub water passage 70 is 10 m or more and less than 15 m, the control device 150 sets the correction amount to +10 Hz. In addition, when the pipe diameter of the second bathtub water passage 70 is 13 mm, if the pipe length of the second bathtub water passage 70 is less than 5 m, the control device 150 sets the correction amount to -20 Hz; if the pipe length of the second bathtub water passage 70 is 5 m or more and less than 10 m, the control device 150 sets the correction amount to -10 Hz; if the pipe length of the second bathtub water passage 70 is 10 m or more and less than 15 m, the control device 150 sets the correction amount to ±0 Hz.

[0131] When the pressure loss of the second bathtub water passage 70 is small, water easily flows from the bathtub 130 into the storage tank 52. Therefore, the pressure in the storage tank 52 during the microbubble generation operation control becomes correspondingly higher. On the contrary, when the pressure loss of the second bathtub water passage 70 is large, water does not easily flow from the bathtub 130 into the storage tank 52. Therefore, the pressure in the storage tank 52 during the microbubble generation operation control decreases correspondingly. When the pipe diameter of the second bathtub water passage 70 is small or the pipe length of the second bathtub water passage 70 is long, the pressure loss of the second bathtub water passage 70 becomes large. When the pipe diameter of the second bathtub water passage 70 is large or the pipe length of the second bathtub water passage 70 is short, the pressure loss of the second bathtub water passage 70 becomes small. Therefore, as Figure 13 shown, when the pipe diameter of the second bathtub water passage 70 is small or the pipe length of the second bathtub water passage 70 is long (i.e., when the pressure loss of the second bathtub water passage 70 is large), the rotation speeds of the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 are increased. When the pipe diameter of the second bathtub water passage 70 is large or the pipe length of the second bathtub water passage 70 is short (i.e., when the pressure loss of the second bathtub water passage 70 is small), the rotation speeds of the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 are decreased. Accordingly, the influence of the difference in the pipe diameter or pipe length of the second bathtub water passage 70 on the pressure in the storage tank 52 can be suppressed.

[0132] In addition, the correction of the rotation speed shown in Figure 11 、 Figure 12 、 Figure 13 can be implemented on both the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90, or the correction of the rotation speed shown in Figure 11 、 Figure 12 、 Figure 13 can be implemented on only either the first pressurizing pump 88 or the second pressurizing pump 90.

[0133] (Example 5)

[0134] The hot water device 2 of this embodiment has substantially the same structure as the hot water device 2 of Embodiment 1. As Figure 14 shown, in this embodiment, the air pressurization and dissolution unit 50 has a storage tank pressure sensor 54. The storage tank pressure sensor 54 is disposed at a position lower than the lower limit water level of the storage tank 52, and detects the internal pressure of the storage tank 52 as the storage tank pressure. In the hot water device 2 of this embodiment, the control device 150 uses the storage tank pressure detected by the storage tank pressure sensor 54 to perform feedback control on the rotational speeds when driving the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 during the microbubble generation operation control (refer to Figure 6 ).

[0135] Specifically, when starting to supply the air-dissolved water from the storage tank 52 to the bathtub 130 in S38 of the microbubble generation operation control as Figure 6 shown, in parallel with the Figure 6 processing shown, the control device 150 implements the Figure 15 processing shown.

[0136] In S92, the control device 150 determines whether the storage tank pressure detected by the storage tank pressure sensor 54 is lower than a specified lower limit storage tank pressure. When the storage tank pressure is lower than the lower limit storage tank pressure (when it is yes), the process proceeds to S94. When the storage tank pressure is above the lower limit storage tank pressure (when it is no), the process proceeds to S96.

[0137] In S94, the control device 150 increases the rotational speeds of the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 by a specified rotational speed amplitude (for example, 1 Hz). Accordingly, the storage tank pressure of the storage tank 52 increases. After S94, the process proceeds to S96.

[0138] In S96, the control device 150 determines whether the storage tank pressure detected by the storage tank pressure sensor 54 is above a specified upper limit storage tank pressure greater than the lower limit storage tank pressure. When the storage tank pressure is above the upper limit storage tank pressure (when it is yes), the process proceeds to S98. When the storage tank pressure is below the upper limit storage tank pressure (when it is no), the process proceeds to S100.

[0139] In S98, the control device 150 decreases the rotational speeds of the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 by a specified rotational speed amplitude (for example, 1 Hz). Accordingly, the storage tank pressure of the storage tank 52 decreases. After S98, the process proceeds to S100.

[0140] In S100, the control device 150 determines whether the first pressurizing pump 88 and the second pressurizing pump 90 are stopped. In Figure 6When ending the supply of air-dissolved water from the storage tank 52 to the bathtub 130 in S50 of the microbubble generation operation control shown, the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 are stopped. When the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 are not stopped (when the answer is no), the process returns to S92. When the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 are stopped (when the answer is yes), Figure 15 the process ends.

[0141] According to Figure 15 the process shown, the rotational speeds of the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 are adjusted so that the storage tank pressure detected by the storage tank pressure sensor 54 is above the lower limit storage tank pressure and less than the upper limit storage tank pressure. By adopting this structure, even when the pressure in the storage tank 52 during the implementation of the microbubble generation operation control is affected by factors such as the installation position of the bathtub 130, the pipe diameter and pipe length of the first bathtub water passage 62, the pipe diameter and pipe length of the second bathtub water passage 70, or other factors, the pressure in the storage tank 52 can be maintained within the desired range.

[0142] In addition, the increase in rotational speed in S94 and S98 for both the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 can be performed, or the increase and decrease in rotational speed in S94 and S98 for only either the first pressure pump 88 or the second pressure pump 90 can be performed. Figure 15 the increase in rotational speed in S94 and S98 for both the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 can be performed, or the increase and decrease in rotational speed in S94 and S98 for only either the first pressure pump 88 or the second pressure pump 90 can be performed. Figure 15 the increase and decrease in rotational speed in S94 and S98.

[0143] In the hot water device 2 of the present embodiment, the control device 150 can also be configured to, in Figure 15 the process, instead of S92 - S98, calculate the difference between the preset target storage tank pressure and the actual storage tank pressure detected by the storage tank pressure sensor 54, and add a correction amount obtained by multiplying the calculated difference in storage tank pressure by a negative coefficient to the rotational speed of the first pressure pump 88 and / or the second pressure pump 90, and thereby adjust the rotational speed of the first pressure pump 88 and / or the second pressure pump 90. By adopting this structure, the rotational speed of the first pressure pump 88 and / or the second pressure pump 90 is adjusted so that the actual storage tank pressure detected by the storage tank pressure sensor 54 approaches the target storage tank pressure. By adopting this structure, even when the pressure in the storage tank 52 during the implementation of the microbubble generation operation control is affected by factors such as the installation position of the bathtub 130, the pipe diameter and pipe length of the first bathtub water passage 62, the pipe diameter and pipe length of the second bathtub water passage 70, or other factors, the pressure in the storage tank 52 can be maintained at the desired target storage tank pressure.

[0144] (Other modification examples)

[0145] In the above-described hot water device 2, in the microbubble generation operation control implemented in linkage with the hot water injection operation control, the cold water mitigation process of S32 of Figure 6 , Figure 9 , and Figure 10 can also be omitted. Figure 6 , Figure 9 , Figure 10

[0146] In the above-described hot water device 2, the tank cleaning process of S54 of Figure 6 , Figure 9 , and Figure 10 can also be omitted. Figure 6 , Figure 9 , Figure 10

[0147] In the above-described hot water device 2, in the determination process of the operation control time of S48 of Figure 6 or Figure 9 , even when the operation control time reaches the set time, instead of entering S50, it returns to S40 to continue the microbubble generation operation control until the user instructs to end the microbubble generation operation control through the remote controller 154. Similarly, in the above-described hot water device 2, in the determination process of the operation control time of S86 of Figure 10 , even when the operation control time reaches the set time, instead of entering S50, it returns to S66 to continue the microbubble generation operation control until the user instructs to end the microbubble generation operation control through the remote controller 154. Figure 6 or Figure 9 Figure 10

[0148] In the above-described hot water device 2, in the case of implementing the microbubble generation operation control in conjunction with the hot water injection operation control, instead of performing the hot water injection end notification of S20 of Figure 3 at the end of the hot water injection operation control, the hot water injection end notification of S20 of Figure 3 can be performed during the implementation of the microbubble generation operation control. More specifically, the hot water injection end notification can be performed after the operation control time of the microbubble generation operation control reaches a specified notification time (for example, 2 minutes) that can generate sufficient microbubbles in the water of the bathtub 130. By adopting this structure, the time for the user to enter the bathroom can be delayed, thereby suppressing the user from entering the bathroom before the water in the bathtub 130 generates sufficient microbubbles. Figure 3 Figure 3

[0149] In the above-described hot water device 2, it can also be configured such that the user can switch whether to implement the microbubble generation operation control in linkage with the hot water injection operation control through the remote controller 154.

[0150] In the above-described hot water device 2, when introducing air into the storage tank 52, instead of air, gas such as carbon dioxide gas, hydrogen gas, and oxygen gas can be introduced into the storage tank 52. In this case, it can also be configured to connect a gas filling tank (not shown) filled with gas to the gas inlet 104a of the gas introduction path 104.

[0151] In the above-described hot water device 2, in the hot water injection operation control, water of a set amount is stored in the bathtub 130 according to the cumulative amount of water detected by the water amount sensor 28. In contrast, the hot water device 2 may also be configured such that, for example, a water level sensor capable of detecting the water level of the bathtub 130 is provided, and in the hot water injection operation control, water of a set water level is stored in the bathtub 130 according to the water level of the bathtub 130 detected by the water level sensor.

[0152] In the above-described hot water device 2, the heat source unit 10 is connected to the faucet 250, and the air pressurized dissolution unit 50 is connected to the bathtub 130. In contrast, the heat source unit 10 may be connected to other heat utilization parts, and the air pressurized dissolution unit 50 may be connected to other liquid tanks.

[0153] In the above-described hot water device 2, in the storage tank circulation path 92, the gas introduction mechanism 96 is arranged at a position upstream of the storage tank circulation pump 94. In contrast, in the storage tank circulation path 92, the gas introduction mechanism 96 may also be arranged at a position downstream of the storage tank circulation pump 94.

[0154] In the above-described hot water device 2, the storage tank circulation path 92 and the storage tank circuit 74 are provided separately. In contrast, it may also be configured such that, as Figure 16 shown, the storage tank circulation path 92 on the downstream side of the storage tank circulation pump 94 merges with the storage tank circuit 74 on the downstream side of the second pressurizing pump 90. In this case, the water supply port 74a at the downstream end of the storage tank circuit 74 also serves as the inflow port 92b at the downstream end of the storage tank circulation path 92. In the case of adopting Figure 16 such a structure, since the gas introduction mechanism 96 is provided on the storage tank circulation path 92 upstream of the merging portion of the storage tank circulation path 92 and the storage tank circuit 74, the pressure loss of the storage tank circuit 74 can also be reduced. In addition, in the case of adopting Figure 16 such a structure, the number of vortices inside the storage tank 52 is one, thereby promoting the dissolution of air in the water in the storage tank 52.

[0155] It is also possible to enable the control device 150 of the hot water device 2 in Embodiment 2 and Embodiment 3 to perform the adjustment of the rotational speed of the first pressurizing pump 88 and / or the second pressurizing pump 90 implemented by the control device 150 in the hot water device 2 in Embodiment 4 or Embodiment 5.

[0156] As described above, in one or more embodiments, the hot water device 2 (an example of a microbubble generating device) includes: a storage tank 52 for pressurizing and dissolving air (an example of a gas) in water (an example of a liquid); a storage tank circuit 74 (an example of a storage tank supply path) for supplying water to the storage tank 52; a first pressure pump 88 and a second pressure pump 90 (examples of pressure pumps), both of which are provided in the storage tank circuit 74; a storage tank outlet path 64, a first bathtub water path 62, and a bathtub adapter 132 (examples of storage tank discharge paths) for discharging water with air pressurized and dissolved therein from the storage tank 52 to a bathtub 130 (an example of a liquid tank); a microbubble generating nozzle 142 provided in the bathtub adapter 132 for decompressing the water with air pressurized and dissolved therein to generate microbubbles; a storage tank circulation path 92 provided independently of the storage tank outlet path 64, the first bathtub water path 62, and the bathtub adapter 132 for transporting water from an outlet 92a connected to the storage tank 52 to an inlet 92b connected to the storage tank 52; a storage tank circulation pump 94 provided in the storage tank circulation path 92; a gas introduction mechanism 96 provided in the storage tank circulation path 92; and a control device 150. The gas introduction mechanism 96 includes: a venturi tube 102 (an example of a decompression section) through which water passes under decompression; and a gas inlet 104a for introducing air through the negative pressure of the water in the venturi tube 102. The control device 150 can perform microbubble generation operation control, which means driving the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 to pressurize and supply water from the storage tank circuit 74 to the storage tank 52, and supplying water with air pressurized and dissolved therein from the storage tank 52 to the bathtub 130 via the storage tank outlet path 64, the first bathtub water path 62, and the bathtub adapter 132. In the hot water device 2, during the performance of the microbubble generation operation control, the control device 150 drives the storage tank circulation pump 94 to circulate the water in the storage tank 52 in the storage tank circulation path 92, whereby the air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 is supplied to the storage tank 52.

[0157] In the above-described hot water device 2, even during the performance of the microbubble generation operation control, air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 can be supplied to the storage tank 52 by driving the storage tank circulation pump 94. Therefore, there is no need to interrupt the microbubble generation operation control to supply air to the storage tank 52, and the microbubble generation operation control can be continuously performed. By adopting such a structure, microbubbles can be continuously and stably generated in the water in the bathtub 130.

[0158] In one or more embodiments, in the hot water device 2, the gas introduction mechanism 96 is arranged at a position upstream of the storage tank circulation pump 94 in the storage tank circulation path 92.

[0159] According to the above structure, compared with the case where the gas introduction mechanism 96 is arranged downstream of the storage tank circulation pump 94 in the storage tank circulation path 92, the pressure of the water in the venturi tube 102 can be further reduced. By adopting such a structure, the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 can be further increased. In addition, according to the above structure, when the air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 and the water flowing through the storage tank circulation path 92 pass through the storage tank circulation pump 94, they are agitated by the impeller of the storage tank circulation pump 94, and thus the dissolution of air in the water can be further promoted.

[0160] In one or more embodiments, the hot water device 2 further includes: a gas introduction valve 106 for opening and closing the gas inlet 104a; a low water level electrode 52a (an example of a first liquid level electrode) capable of detecting whether the water level (an example of a liquid level) of the storage tank 52 is above the lower limit water level (an example of a first liquid level); and a high water level electrode 52b (an example of a second liquid level electrode) capable of detecting whether the water level of the storage tank 52 is above the upper limit water level (an example of a second liquid level) higher than the lower limit water level. The water level at the part where the outlet 92a leading to the storage tank circulation path 92 is connected to the storage tank 52 is lower than the lower limit water level. The control device 150 is configured such that in the microbubble generation operation control, when it is detected by the low water level electrode 52a that the water level of the storage tank 52 is lower than the lower limit water level while the gas introduction valve 106 is open, the gas introduction valve 106 is closed, and in the microbubble generation operation control, when it is detected by the high water level electrode 52b that the water level of the storage tank 52 is higher than the upper limit water level while the gas introduction valve 106 is closed, the gas introduction valve 106 is opened.

[0161] During the implementation of the microbubble generation operation control, when the amount of air consumed by the storage tank 52 is less than the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96, the water level of the storage tank 52 drops, and when the amount of air consumed by the storage tank 52 is more than the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96, the water level of the storage tank 52 rises. On the other hand, when driving the storage tank circulation pump 94, if the gas introduction valve 106 is open, air is introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96, and when the gas introduction valve 106 is closed, air is no longer introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96. According to the above structure, the control device 150 switches the opening and closing of the gas introduction valve 106 according to the water level of the storage tank 52, and thus the amount of air consumed by the storage tank 52 and the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 can be balanced.

[0162] In one or more embodiments, in the hot water device 2, during the microbubble generation operation control, the control device 150 continues to drive the storage tank circulation pump 94 even during the period when the gas introduction valve 106 is in the closed state.

[0163] When the storage tank circulation pump 94 is driven to circulate the water in the storage tank 52 in the storage tank circulation path 92, the flow of the water in the storage tank 52 becomes rapid. In the pressure dissolution type storage tank 52, the more rapid the flow of the water in the storage tank 52, the more the pressure dissolution of air in the water in the storage tank 52 is promoted. According to the above structure, in the microbubble generation operation control, the storage tank circulation pump 94 is continuously driven even during the period when the gas introduction valve 106 is in the closed state, so that the water in the storage tank 52 can flow more rapidly, and the pressure dissolution of air in the water in the storage tank 52 is further promoted.

[0164] In one or more embodiments, the control device 150 is configured to determine an elapsed time as the air intake time in the microbubble generation operation control. The elapsed time refers to the time elapsed from when the gas introduction valve 106 is opened due to the water level in the storage tank 52 being detected by the high water level electrode 52b to be higher than the upper limit water level until the gas introduction valve 106 is closed due to the water level in the storage tank 52 being detected by the low water level electrode 52a to be lower than the lower limit water level. According to the air intake time, the rotation speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 is adjusted when the storage tank circulation pump 94 is driven in the state where the gas introduction valve 106 is opened thereafter.

[0165] In the microbubble generation operation control, when the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 is much more than the amount of air consumed by the storage tank 52 in the state where the gas introduction valve 106 is opened, the air intake time is a very short time. On the contrary, in the microbubble generation operation control, when the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 is slightly more than the amount of air consumed by the storage tank 52 in the state where the gas introduction valve 106 is opened, the air intake time is a very long time. The amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 varies according to the rotation speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 when the storage tank circulation pump 94 is driven in the state where the gas introduction valve 106 is opened. According to the above structure, according to the actual air intake time in the microbubble generation operation control, the rotation speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 is adjusted when the storage tank circulation pump 94 is driven in the state where the gas introduction valve 106 is opened thereafter, so that the amount of air consumed by the storage tank 52 and the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 are appropriately balanced, and thus microbubbles can be continuously and stably generated in the water of the bathtub 130.

[0166] In one or more embodiments, the control device 150 is configured to increase the rotation speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 when the storage tank circulation pump 94 is driven in the state where the gas introduction valve 106 is opened thereafter when the air intake time exceeds the upper limit time (an example of the first air intake time), and decrease the rotation speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 when the storage tank circulation pump 94 is driven in the state where the gas introduction valve 106 is opened thereafter when the air intake time is less than the lower limit time (an example of the second air intake time) shorter than the upper limit time.

[0167] With the gas introduction valve 106 open, the higher the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94, the greater the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96, and the lower the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94, the smaller the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96. According to the above structure, when the suction time ratio is longer than the upper limit time, that is, when the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 is less than expected, the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 is increased, whereby the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 can be increased. In addition, according to the above structure, when the suction time ratio is shorter than the lower limit time, that is, when the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 is more than expected, the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 is decreased, whereby the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 can be reduced.

[0168] Alternatively, in one or more embodiments, the hot water device 2 further includes: a low water level electrode 52a (an example of a first liquid level electrode) that can detect whether the water level (an example of a liquid level) of the storage tank 52 is above the lower limit water level (an example of a first liquid level); and a high water level electrode 52b (an example of a second liquid level electrode) that can detect whether the water level of the storage tank 52 is above the upper limit water level (an example of a second liquid level) that is higher than the lower limit water level. The outflow port 92a of the passage leading to the storage tank circulation path 92 is connected to a portion of the storage tank 52 where the water level is lower than the lower limit water level. The control device 150 is configured to reduce the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 when the low water level electrode 52a detects that the water level of the storage tank 52 is lower than the lower limit water level during the microbubble generation operation control, and to increase the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 when the high water level electrode 52b detects that the water level of the storage tank 52 is higher than the upper limit water level during the microbubble generation operation control.

[0169] During the implementation of the microbubble generation operation control, when the amount of air consumed by the storage tank 52 is less than the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96, the water level of the storage tank 52 gradually decreases, and when the amount of air consumed by the storage tank 52 is more than the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96, the water level of the storage tank 52 gradually rises. On the other hand, when the storage tank circulation pump 94 is driven, if the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 is increased, the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 becomes more, and if the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 is decreased, the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 becomes less. According to the above structure, the control device 150 adjusts the rotational speed of the storage tank circulation pump 94 according to the water level of the storage tank 52, whereby the amount of air consumed by the storage tank 52 and the amount of air introduced by the gas introduction mechanism 96 can be balanced.

[0170] In one or more embodiments, the control device 150 is configured to determine environmental parameters corresponding to the environment where the hot water device 2 is installed, and adjust the rotational speeds of the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 in the microbubble generation operation control according to the environmental parameters.

[0171] In the microbubble generation operation control, the appearance of the microbubbles generated in the water of the bathtub 130 changes according to the pressure in the storage tank 52 when the microbubble generation operation control is implemented. Even when the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 are driven in the same manner, sometimes the pressure in the storage tank 52 when the microbubble generation operation control is implemented may vary depending on the environment where the hot water device 2 is installed. According to the above structure, when the pressure in the storage tank 52 during the microbubble generation operation control is affected by the environment where the hot water device 2 is installed, in order to offset this influence, the rotational speeds of the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 are adjusted, whereby the pressure in the storage tank 52 during the microbubble generation operation control can be stabilized.

[0172] In one or more embodiments, the environmental parameters include the installation position of the bathtub 130 relative to the hot water device 2, the pipe diameter of the first bathtub waterway 62, the pipe length of the first bathtub waterway 62, the pipe diameter of the second bathtub waterway 70, and / or the pipe length of the second bathtub waterway 70.

[0173] According to the above structure, the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 in the microbubble generation operation control are adjusted according to the environmental parameters that affect the pressure in the storage tank 52 during the microbubble generation operation control, so that the pressure in the storage tank 52 during the microbubble generation operation control can be stabilized.

[0174] Alternatively, in one or more embodiments, the hot water device 2 further includes a storage tank pressure sensor 54, which is disposed in the storage tank 52 and detects the pressure in the storage tank 52 as the storage tank pressure. The control device 150 is configured to adjust the rotational speeds of the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 according to the storage tank pressure detected by the storage tank pressure sensor 54 during the microbubble generation operation control.

[0175] According to the above structure, even when the pressure in the storage tank 52 during the microbubble generation operation control is affected by the environment where the hot water device 2 is installed or other factors, the rotational speeds of the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 can be adjusted according to the actual storage tank pressure detected by the storage tank pressure sensor 54, so that the pressure in the storage tank 52 during the microbubble generation operation control can be stabilized.

[0176] In one or more embodiments, the control device 150 is configured such that, in the control of the microbubble generation operation, when the tank pressure detected by the tank pressure sensor 54 exceeds the upper limit tank pressure (an example of the first tank pressure), the rotational speeds of the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 are decreased, and when the tank pressure is lower than the lower limit tank pressure (an example of the second tank pressure) that is less than the upper limit tank pressure, the rotational speeds of the first pressure pump 88 and the second pressure pump 90 are increased.

[0177] According to the above structure, it is possible to maintain the pressure in the tank 52 within the range between the upper limit tank pressure and the lower limit tank pressure during the control of the microbubble generation operation.

[0178] Each of the embodiments has been described in detail above, but these embodiments are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the technical solution. Among the technologies described in the technical solution, various deformations and changes to the specific examples shown above are included. The technical elements described in this specification or the drawings can be used alone or in various combinations to exhibit technical usefulness, and are not limited to the combinations described in the technical solution at the time of application. In addition, the technologies exemplified in this specification or the drawings can achieve multiple purposes simultaneously, and achieving one of the purposes itself has technical usefulness.

Claims

1. A microbubble generating device, characterized in that it has a storage tank, a storage tank supply path, a pressure pump, a storage tank discharge path, a microbubble generating nozzle, a storage tank circulation path, a storage tank circulation pump, a gas introduction mechanism, and a control device, wherein the storage tank is used for pressurizing and dissolving gas in a liquid; the storage tank supply path is used for supplying the liquid to the storage tank; the pressure pump is arranged in the storage tank supply path; the storage tank discharge path is used for discharging the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved from the storage tank to a liquid tank; the microbubble generating nozzle is arranged in the storage tank discharge path and is used for generating microbubbles by decompressing the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved; the storage tank circulation path is separately arranged from the storage tank discharge path and is used for conveying the liquid from the outflow port connected to the storage tank to the inflow port connected to the storage tank; the storage tank circulation pump is arranged in the storage tank circulation path; the gas introduction mechanism is arranged in the storage tank circulation path, the gas introduction mechanism has a decompression part and a gas inlet, wherein the decompression part allows the liquid to pass through under reduced pressure; the gas inlet introduces the gas through the negative pressure of the liquid in the decompression part, the control device can implement microbubble generation operation control, and this microbubble generation operation control means: driving the pressure pump to pressurize and supply the liquid from the storage tank supply path to the storage tank, and supplying the liquid in which the gas is pressurized and dissolved from the storage tank to the liquid tank via the storage tank discharge path, during the implementation of the microbubble generation operation control, the control device drives the storage tank circulation pump to circulate the liquid in the storage tank in the storage tank circulation path, thereby supplying the gas introduced by the gas introduction mechanism to the storage tank.

2. The microbubble generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that the gas introduction mechanism is arranged at a position upstream of the storage tank circulation pump in the storage tank circulation path.

3. The microbubble generating device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it further has a gas inlet valve, a first liquid level electrode, and a second liquid level electrode, wherein the gas inlet valve is used for opening and closing the gas inlet; the first liquid level electrode can detect whether the liquid level of the storage tank is above a first liquid level; the second liquid level electrode can detect whether the liquid level of the storage tank is above a second liquid level higher than the first liquid level, the liquid level of the part where the outflow port leading to the storage tank circulation path is connected to the storage tank is lower than the first liquid level, the control device is configured to: in the microbubble generation operation control, when the first liquid level electrode detects that the liquid level of the storage tank is lower than the first liquid level in the state where the gas inlet valve is open, close the gas inlet valve; in the microbubble generation operation control, when the second liquid level electrode detects that the liquid level of the storage tank is higher than the second liquid level in the state where the gas inlet valve is closed, open the gas inlet valve.

4. The microbubble generating device according to claim 3, characterized in that in the control of the microbubble generation operation, during the period when the gas introduction valve is in a closed state, the control device continues to drive the storage tank circulation pump.

5. The microbubble generating device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the control device is configured to in the control of the microbubble generation operation, determine an elapsed time as the suction time, where the elapsed time refers to the time from when the gas introduction valve is opened due to the liquid level of the storage tank being detected by the second liquid level electrode as higher than the second liquid level until the gas introduction valve is closed due to the liquid level of the storage tank being detected by the first liquid level electrode as lower than the first liquid level, adjust the rotation speed of the storage tank circulation pump when driving the storage tank circulation pump in the state where the gas introduction valve is opened thereafter according to the suction time.

6. The microbubble generating device according to claim 5, characterized in that the control device is configured to in the case where the suction time exceeds a first suction time, increase the rotation speed of the storage tank circulation pump when driving the storage tank circulation pump in the state where the gas introduction valve is opened thereafter, in the case where the suction time is shorter than a second suction time shorter than the first suction time, decrease the rotation speed of the storage tank circulation pump when driving the storage tank circulation pump in the state where the gas introduction valve is opened thereafter.

7. The microbubble generating device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it further has a first liquid level electrode and a second liquid level electrode, wherein the first liquid level electrode can detect whether the liquid level of the storage tank is above a first liquid level; the second liquid level electrode can detect whether the liquid level of the storage tank is above a second liquid level higher than the first liquid level, the liquid level of the part where the outflow port leading to the storage tank circulation path is connected to the storage tank is lower than the first liquid level, the control device is configured to in the control of the microbubble generation operation, decrease the rotation speed of the storage tank circulation pump when the liquid level of the storage tank is detected by the first liquid level electrode as lower than the first liquid level, in the control of the microbubble generation operation, increase the rotation speed of the storage tank circulation pump when the liquid level of the storage tank is detected by the second liquid level electrode as higher than the second liquid level.

8. The microbubble generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the control device is configured to determine an environmental parameter corresponding to the environment where the microbubble generating device is installed, adjust the rotation speed of the pressure pump in the microbubble generation operation control according to the environmental parameter.

9. The microbubble generating device according to claim 8, characterized in that the environmental parameter includes the installation position of the liquid tank relative to the microbubble generating device, the pipe diameter of at least a part of the storage tank discharge path, the pipe length of at least a part of the storage tank discharge path, the pipe diameter of at least a part of the storage tank supply path, and / or the pipe length of at least a part of the storage tank supply path.

10. The microbubble generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that it further has a storage tank pressure sensor which is disposed in the storage tank and is used to detect the pressure in the storage tank as the storage tank pressure, the control device is configured to: adjust the rotational speed of the pressure pump according to the storage tank pressure detected by the storage tank pressure sensor during the microbubble generation operation control.

11. The microbubble generating device according to claim 10, characterized in that the control device is configured to: during the microbubble generation operation control, when the storage tank pressure detected by the storage tank pressure sensor exceeds the first storage tank pressure, reduce the rotational speed of the pressure pump, and when the storage tank pressure is lower than the second storage tank pressure which is lower than the first storage tank pressure, increase the rotational speed of the pressure pump.

12. The microbubble generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the liquid is water, the liquid tank is a bathtub for users to take a bath.

Images