apparatus

Abstract

An apparatus has a container, a liquid passage, an air introduction portion, and a fine bubble generation portion. The container is open to the atmosphere. The interior of the liquid passage is for the flow of a liquid. The air introduction portion is for introducing air into the liquid passage. The fine bubble generation portion is provided in the liquid passage and generates fine bubbles in the liquid flowing through the liquid passage using the air introduced into the liquid passage. The air introduction portion has an air inlet and an air introduction passage. The air inlet is open to the interior of the container. The air introduction passage connects between the interior of the liquid passage and the air inlet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to a device. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2015-161491 discloses a device comprising: a liquid passage for liquid flow; an air inlet for introducing air into the liquid passage; and a microbubble generator disposed in the liquid passage, which uses the air introduced into the liquid passage to generate microbubbles in the liquid flowing through the liquid passage. The air inlet includes an air inlet open to the atmosphere and an air inlet channel connecting the interior of the liquid passage and the air inlet. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0004] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2015-161491 describes a device in which air is introduced into a liquid passage from an air inlet via an air inlet. However, it is assumed that when liquid flowing through the liquid passage flows into the air inlet and exits through the air inlet to the outside of the air inlet, the liquid may flow to an unintended location (e.g., a location where electrical wiring is installed). This specification provides a technique capable of preventing liquid flowing through the liquid passage from flowing to an unintended location.

[0005] Technical solutions for solving technical problems

[0006] In a first embodiment of this technology, the device includes a container, a liquid passage, an air inlet, and a microbubble generator. The container is open to the atmosphere; the liquid passage allows liquid to flow inside; the air inlet introduces air into the liquid passage; and the microbubble generator is disposed in the liquid passage and uses the introduced air to generate microbubbles in the liquid flowing through it. The air inlet has an air inlet and an air inlet channel, wherein the air inlet opens into the interior of the container; and the air inlet channel connects the interior of the liquid passage to the air inlet.

[0007] According to the above structure, air inside the container can be introduced into the liquid passage through the air inlet via the air inlet channel. Furthermore, according to the above structure, even if liquid flowing through the liquid passage flows into the air inlet channel and exits through the air inlet channel to the outside, the liquid will still flow into the interior of the container. Therefore, it is possible to prevent liquid flowing through the liquid passage from flowing to unintended locations.

[0008] In a second embodiment of this technology, based on the first embodiment described above, the device may further include a heating unit, a heating circuit, a heating pump, and a water tank. The heating unit is used to heat the heat medium; the heating circuit circulates the heat medium heated by the heating unit to a heating device that provides heating through heat dissipation; the heating pump pressurizes the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit; and the water tank is disposed within the heating circuit. The container may include the water tank.

[0009] According to the above structure, air from inside the water tank can be introduced into the liquid passage through the air inlet via the air inlet channel. Furthermore, according to the above structure, even if liquid flowing through the liquid passage flows into the air inlet channel and exits through the air inlet channel to the outside, the liquid will still flow into the water tank. Therefore, it is possible to prevent liquid flowing through the liquid passage from flowing to unintended locations.

[0010] In a third embodiment of this technology, based on the first embodiment described above, the device may further include a burner, a latent heat exchanger, and a neutralizer, wherein the latent heat exchanger heats the heat medium by recovering the latent heat of the combustion gases generated by the burner; and the neutralizer is used to neutralize the wastewater generated by the latent heat exchanger. The container may include the neutralizer.

[0011] According to the above structure, air inside the neutralizer can be introduced into the liquid passage through the air inlet via the air inlet channel. Furthermore, according to the above structure, even if liquid flowing through the liquid passage flows into the air inlet channel and exits through the air inlet channel to the outside of the air inlet channel, the liquid will still flow into the interior of the neutralizer. Therefore, it is possible to prevent liquid flowing through the liquid passage from flowing to unintended locations.

[0012] In the fourth embodiment of this technology, based on the first embodiment described above, the device may further include a washing tank, a water supply channel, a washing nozzle, a washing passage, a washing pump, and a drain channel. The washing tank is used to hold tableware; the water supply channel allows water to flow from a water supply source to the washing tank; the washing nozzle is disposed inside the washing tank; the washing passage is disposed inside the washing tank and connected to the washing nozzle; the washing pump is used to pressurize water from inside the washing tank to the washing nozzle via the washing passage; and the drain channel allows water discharged from the washing tank to flow. The liquid passage may be the water supply channel. The container may include the washing tank.

[0013] According to the above structure, air inside the cleaning tank can be introduced into the water supply channel through the air inlet via the air inlet channel. Furthermore, according to the above structure, even if water flowing through the water supply channel flows into the air inlet channel and exits through the air inlet channel to the outside of the air inlet channel, the water will still flow into the interior of the cleaning tank. Therefore, it is possible to prevent water flowing through the water supply channel from flowing to unintended locations.

[0014] In a fifth embodiment of this technology, the device includes a drain channel, a liquid passage, an air inlet, and a microbubble generator. The drain channel is open to the atmosphere; the liquid passage allows liquid to flow inside; the air inlet introduces air into the liquid passage; and the microbubble generator is located in the liquid passage and uses the introduced air to generate microbubbles in the liquid flowing through it. The air inlet has an air inlet and an air inlet channel, wherein the air inlet opens into the interior of the drain channel; and the air inlet channel connects the interior of the liquid passage to the air inlet.

[0015] According to the above structure, air inside the drain channel can be introduced into the liquid passage through the air inlet via the air inlet. Furthermore, according to the above structure, even if liquid flowing through the liquid passage flows into the air inlet and exits through the air inlet to the outside of the air inlet, the liquid will still flow into the drain channel. Therefore, it is possible to prevent liquid flowing through the liquid passage from flowing to unintended locations.

[0016] In the sixth embodiment of this technology, based on the fifth embodiment described above, the device may further include a heating unit, a heating circuit, a heating pump, a water tank, and a first overflow channel. The heating unit is used to heat the heat medium; the heating circuit circulates the heat medium heated by the heating unit to a heating device that provides heating through heat dissipation; the heating pump is used to pressurize the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit; the water tank is disposed in the heating circuit; one end of the first overflow channel is connected to the first overflow port of the water tank, and the other end is connected to a designated drainage point. The drainage channel may include the first overflow channel.

[0017] According to the above structure, air inside the first overflow channel can be introduced into the liquid passage through the air inlet via the air inlet channel. Furthermore, according to the above structure, even if liquid flowing through the liquid passage flows into the air inlet channel and exits through the air inlet channel to the outside of the air inlet channel, the liquid will still flow through the first overflow channel to a designated drainage location. Therefore, it is possible to prevent liquid flowing through the liquid passage from flowing to an unintended location.

[0018] In the seventh embodiment of this technology, based on the fifth embodiment described above, the device may further include a burner, a latent heat exchanger, a neutralizer, and a second overflow channel. The latent heat exchanger heats the heat medium by recovering the latent heat of the combustion gases generated by the burner. The neutralizer is used to neutralize the drainage generated by the latent heat exchanger. One end of the second overflow channel is connected to the second overflow port of the neutralizer, and the other end is connected to a designated drainage location. The drainage channel may include the second overflow channel.

[0019] According to the above structure, air inside the second overflow channel can be introduced into the liquid passage through the air inlet via the air inlet channel. Furthermore, according to the above structure, even if liquid flowing through the liquid passage flows into the air inlet channel and exits through the air inlet channel to the outside of the air inlet channel, the liquid will still flow through the second overflow channel to a designated drainage location. Therefore, it is possible to prevent liquid flowing through the liquid passage from flowing to an unintended location.

[0020] In the eighth embodiment of this technology, based on the fifth embodiment described above, the device may further include a washing tank, a water supply channel, a washing nozzle, a washing channel, a washing pump, and a drain channel. The washing tank is used to hold tableware; the water supply channel allows water to flow from a water supply source to the washing tank; the washing nozzle is disposed inside the washing tank; the washing channel is disposed inside the washing tank and connected to the washing nozzle; the washing pump is used to pressurize water from inside the washing tank to the washing nozzle via the washing channel; and the drain channel allows water discharged from the washing tank to flow. The liquid passage may be at least one of the water supply channel and the washing channel. The drain channel may include the drain channel.

[0021] According to the above structure, air inside the drainage channel can be introduced into one of the water supply channel and the cleaning channel via the air inlet through the air inlet. Furthermore, according to the above structure, even if water flowing through at least one of the water supply channel and the cleaning channel flows into the air inlet channel and exits through the air inlet to the outside of the air inlet channel, the water will still flow into the drainage channel. Therefore, it is possible to prevent water flowing through at least one of the water supply channel and the cleaning channel from flowing to an unintended location. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the thermal device 2 in Embodiment 1.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the microbubble generator 190 equipped with the thermal device 2 in Embodiment 1.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a diagram schematically illustrating the structure of the thermal device 252 of Embodiment 2.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the thermal device 302 in Embodiment 3.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a diagram schematically illustrating the structure of the dishwasher 402 of Embodiment 4.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a diagram schematically illustrating the structure of the dishwasher 502 of Embodiment 5. Detailed Implementation

[0028] (Example 1: Thermal device 2) Figure 1 The heating device 2 shown can heat water supplied by a water source (not shown) such as a waterworks and supply the heated water to the desired temperature to a faucet (not shown) installed in the kitchen or a bathtub 4 installed in the bathroom. Additionally, the heating device 2 can reheat hot water stored in the bathtub 4. Furthermore, the heating device 2 can also heat a heat transfer medium (water in this embodiment) and supply the heated medium to a low-temperature heating terminal 6 and / or a high-temperature heating terminal 8, thereby providing heating through the low-temperature heating terminal 6 and / or the high-temperature heating terminal 8.

[0029] The heating device 2 includes a controller 10 comprising a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc. Various operating programs are stored in the ROM. Various signals input to the controller 10 and various data generated by the CPU during processing are temporarily stored in the RAM. The controller 10 controls the various components of the heating device 2 by performing processing based on the information stored in the ROM and RAM through the CPU. Furthermore, the controller 10 can communicate bidirectionally with a remote control 12 installed in the kitchen or bathroom. The remote control 12 provides the user with various information about the heating device 2 and handles various operations performed by the user on the heating device 2.

[0030] The heating device 2 also includes a first heat source 14, a second heat source 16, a combustion chamber 18, and a combustion-supporting fan 20. The first heat source 14 is used to supply hot water to a faucet (not shown) and to fill the bathtub 4 with hot water. The second heat source 16 is used to reheat and provide warmth to the bathtub 4. The interior of the combustion chamber 18 is divided into a first combustion chamber 24 and a second combustion chamber 26 by a partition wall 22. The first heat source 14 is housed in the first combustion chamber 24, and the second heat source 16 is housed in the second combustion chamber 26. Air is supplied to the interior of the combustion chamber 18 by the combustion-supporting fan 20. An exhaust port 28 is formed in the combustion chamber 18. Combustion gases from the first heat source 14 and the second heat source 16 are discharged to the outside through the exhaust port 28. Additionally, a combustion chamber temperature sensor 30 is installed inside the combustion chamber 18 to detect the temperature of each of the first and second combustion chambers 24 and 26.

[0031] The first heat source unit 14 includes burners 32a, 32b, and 32c, a spark plug 34, a flame rod 36, a sensible heat exchanger 38, and a latent heat exchanger 40. Burners 32a, 32b, and 32c each have different combustion areas. Fuel gas is supplied to burners 32a, 32b, and 32c through gas branch channels 42a, 42b, and 42c, respectively. On / off valves 44a, 44b, and 44c are respectively installed on gas branch channels 42a, 42b, and 42c. On / off valves 44a, 44b, and 44c are used to open and close the corresponding gas branch channels 42a, 42b, and 42c. The spark plug 34 is driven by an igniter 46. With air supplied by the combustion fan 20 and fuel gas supplied to the burners 32a, 32b, 32c from gas branch channels 42a, 42b, 42c, combustion occurs in the burners 32a, 32b, 32c when the spark plug 34 is actuated. Combustion occurs in the burners 32a, 32b, 32c when the corresponding on / off valves 44a, 44b, 44c are open, and not when the corresponding on / off valves 44a, 44b, 44c are closed. A flame rod 36 is used to detect whether the burners 32a, 32b, 32c are burning. The combustion gas from the burners 32a, 32b, 32c is cooled by heat exchange in the sensible heat exchanger 38, and further cooled by heat exchange in the latent heat exchanger 40 before being discharged from the exhaust port 28 of the combustion chamber 18.

[0032] The second heat source unit 16 includes burners 48a and 48b, a spark plug 50, a flame rod 52, a sensible heat exchanger 54, and a latent heat exchanger 56. Burners 48a and 48b each have different combustion areas. Fuel gas is supplied to burners 48a and 48b through gas branch channels 58a and 58b, respectively. On / off valves 60a and 60b are respectively installed on gas branch channels 58a and 58b. On / off valves 60a and 60b are used to open and close the corresponding gas branch channels 58a and 58b. The spark plug 50 is driven by an igniter 46. With air supplied by the combustion fan 20 and fuel gas supplied to burners 48a and 48b from gas branch channels 58a and 58b, combustion occurs in burners 48a and 48b when the spark plug 50 is driven. Burners 48a and 48b ignite when their corresponding on / off valves 60a and 60b are open, and do not ignite when their corresponding on / off valves 60a and 60b are closed. A flame rod 52 is used to detect whether burners 48a and 48b are igniting. The combustion gases from burners 48a and 48b are cooled by heat exchange in sensible heat exchanger 54, and then further cooled by heat exchange in latent heat exchanger 56 before being discharged from exhaust port 28 of combustion chamber 18.

[0033] The upstream ends of gas branch channels 42a, 42b, and 42c, and the upstream ends of gas branch channels 58a and 58b, are connected to the downstream end of gas supply channel 62. Fuel gas is supplied from a gas supply source (not shown) to the upstream end of gas supply channel 62. An on / off valve 64 and a flow regulating valve 66 are provided on gas supply channel 62. The on / off valve 64 is used to open and close gas supply channel 62. The flow regulating valve 66 regulates the flow rate of fuel gas flowing through gas supply channel 62 by adjusting the opening degree of gas supply channel 62, thereby regulating the combustion rate of burners 32a, 32b, and 32c of the first heat source unit 14, and the combustion rate of burners 48a and 48b of the second heat source unit 16.

[0034] A drain pan 68 is provided inside the combustion chamber 18. Drainage generated by the latent heat exchanger 40 of the first heat source 14 and the latent heat exchanger 56 of the second heat source 16 drips onto the drain pan 68. The drainage dripping onto the drain pan 68 is sent to the neutralizer 72 via the drainage recovery channel 70 and stored in the neutralizer 72. The neutralizer 72 is filled with a neutralizing agent (not shown) such as calcium carbonate. The drainage stored in the neutralizer 72 is neutralized by the neutralizing agent. Furthermore, the neutralizer 72 has a water trap structure 74. Normally, the space upstream and downstream of the water trap structure 74 are separated by the drainage stored in the neutralizer 72. Therefore, even if combustion gases from the first heat source 14 and the second heat source 16 flow into the neutralizer 72 via the drainage recovery channel 70, the flow of these combustion gases into the space downstream of the water trap structure 74 is prevented. Additionally, an overflow port 76 is provided in the neutralizer 72. Overflow port 76 opens into the space downstream of water trap structure 74. Overflow port 76 is connected to the upstream end of overflow channel 80. The downstream end of overflow channel 80 is connected to a designated drainage point (e.g., a sewer). When the water level inside neutralizer 72 rises and the water (drainage) inside neutralizer 72 reaches the height of the lower end of overflow port 76, the water is discharged to the drainage point through overflow port 76 and overflow channel 80. Accordingly, the water level inside neutralizer 72 is maintained at a position lower than the lower end of overflow port 76. In addition, a water level electrode 78 is provided in neutralizer 72 for detecting when the water level inside neutralizer 72 rises to an abnormal position. The water level detected by water level electrode 78 is set at a position higher than the lower end of overflow port 76.

[0035] The upstream end of the latent heat exchanger 40 of the first heat source unit 14 is connected to the downstream end of the water supply channel 84. Water is supplied from a water source (not shown) to the upstream end of the water supply channel 84. The downstream end of the latent heat exchanger 40 is connected to the upstream end of the sensible heat exchanger 38 via a connecting channel 86. The downstream end of the sensible heat exchanger 38 is connected to the upstream end of the hot water supply channel 88. The downstream end of the hot water supply channel 88 is connected to a faucet (not shown), etc. The water supply channel 84 and the hot water supply channel 88 are connected via a hot water supply bypass channel 90. A bypass servo mechanism 92 is provided at the connection between the water supply channel 84 and the hot water supply bypass channel 90. The bypass servo mechanism 92 adjusts the ratio of the flow rate of water supplied from the water supply channel 84 to the first heat source unit 14 and the flow rate of water supplied from the water supply channel 84 to the hot water supply bypass channel 90 by adjusting the opening degree of the hot water supply bypass channel 90. On the water supply channel 84 upstream of the bypass servo mechanism 92, a first drain plug 94, a water flow sensor 96, a water supply thermistor 98, and a water flow servo mechanism 100 are installed. The water flow sensor 96 is used to detect the flow rate of water flowing through the water supply channel 84. The water supply thermistor 98 is used to detect the temperature of water flowing through the water supply channel 84. The water flow servo mechanism 100 is used to regulate the flow rate of water flowing through the water supply channel 84. On the upstream side of the connection between the hot water supply channel 88 and the hot water supply bypass channel 90, a heat exchanger outlet thermistor 102 is installed. The heat exchanger outlet thermistor 102 is used to detect the temperature of water flowing into the hot water supply channel 88 from the sensible heat exchanger 38. On the downstream side of the connection between the hot water supply channel 88 and the hot water supply bypass channel 90, a hot water supply thermistor 104 and a second drain plug 106 are installed. The hot water supply thermistor 104 is used to detect the temperature of water supplied from the hot water supply channel 88 to a faucet (not shown). In addition, the water supply channel 84 and the connection channel 86 are connected through the heat exchanger bypass channel 108.

[0036] When the heating device 2 supplies hot water to a faucet (not shown), the burners 32a, 32b, and 32c of the first heat source unit 14 ignite. In this case, the water supplied from the water source to the water supply channel 84 is heated by heat exchange in the latent heat exchanger 40, and then further heated by heat exchange in the sensible heat exchanger 38 before being supplied to the faucet from the hot water supply channel 88. At this time, the high-temperature water flowing into the hot water supply channel 88 from the sensible heat exchanger 38 mixes with the low-temperature water flowing into the hot water supply channel 88 from the water supply channel 84 via the hot water supply bypass channel 90, thereby regulating the temperature of the water flowing through the hot water supply channel 88. By adjusting the combustion rate of the burners 32a, 32b, and 32c of the first heat source unit 14 and the opening degree of the hot water supply bypass channel 90 in the bypass servo mechanism 92, the temperature of the water flowing through the hot water supply channel 88 can be adjusted to the desired temperature.

[0037] On the hot water supply channel 88, the upstream end of the hot water injection channel 110 is connected between the hot water supply thermistor 104 and the second drain plug 106. A hot water injection control valve 112, check valves 114 and 116, and a flow sensor 118 are provided on the hot water injection channel 110. The hot water injection control valve 112 is used to open and close the hot water injection channel 110. Check valves 114 and 116 allow water to flow from the upstream side to the downstream side of the hot water injection channel 110 and prevent water from flowing from the downstream side to the upstream side of the hot water injection channel 110. The flow sensor 118 is used to detect the flow rate of water flowing through the hot water injection channel 110. The hot water injection channel 110, located upstream of check valve 116 and downstream of check valve 114, is connected to the overflow channel 80 via the drain channel 120. An atmospheric open valve 122 is provided on the drain channel 120. The water supply pressure from the water supply channel 84 is applied to the atmospheric open valve 122 through the back pressure channel 124. When the water supply pressure in the water supply channel 84 drops, the atmospheric open valve 122 opens the drain channel 120 to connect the hot water injection channel 110 with the overflow channel 80.

[0038] The downstream end of the hot water injection channel 110 is connected to the bathtub return water channel 126. One end of the bathtub return water channel 126 is connected to the circulation fitting 128 installed in the bathtub 4. The other end of the bathtub return water channel 126 is connected to the suction port of the reheating pump 132. A bathtub return water thermistor 130 is installed on the bathtub return water channel 126, along the flow path from the connection between the bathtub return water channel 126 and the hot water injection channel 110 to the reheating pump 132. The bathtub return water thermistor 130 is used to detect the temperature of the water flowing into the reheating pump 132 from the bathtub return water channel 126. Additionally, the discharge port of the reheating pump 132 is connected to one end of the bathtub supply water channel 134. A reheating heat exchanger 136 is installed on the bathtub supply water channel 134. In the reheating heat exchanger 136, heat exchange occurs between the heat medium flowing through the reheating circulation channel 180 and the water flowing through the bathtub supply water channel 134. A flow switch 138 and a water level sensor 140 are installed on the bathtub water supply channel 134, between the reheating pump 132 and the reheating heat exchanger 136. The flow switch 138 is used to detect whether there is water flow in the bathtub water supply channel 134. The water level sensor 140 is used to detect the water level of the water accumulated in the bathtub 4. A bathtub water supply thermistor 142 is installed on the bathtub water supply channel 134, downstream of the reheating heat exchanger 136. The bathtub water supply thermistor 142 is used to detect the temperature of the water flowing through the bathtub water supply channel 134. The other end of the bathtub water supply channel 134 is connected to the circulation fitting 128 of the bathtub 4.

[0039] When the heating device 2 injects hot water into the bathtub 4, with the hot water injection control valve 112 open, the burners 32a, 32b, and 32c of the first heat source unit 14 ignite. In this case, the water supplied from the water source to the water supply channel 84 is heated by heat exchange in the latent heat exchanger 40, and then further heated by heat exchange in the sensible heat exchanger 38. The high-temperature water flowing into the hot water supply channel 88 from the sensible heat exchanger 38 mixes with the low-temperature water flowing into the hot water supply channel 88 from the water supply channel 84 via the hot water supply bypass channel 90. By adjusting the combustion rate of the burners 32a, 32b, and 32c of the first heat source unit 14 and adjusting the opening of the hot water supply bypass channel 90 in the bypass servo mechanism 92, the water adjusted to the desired temperature flows into the bathtub return channel 126 via the hot water injection channel 110. The water flowing into the bathtub return channel 126 branches, flowing to one end of the bathtub return channel 126 and flowing to the other end of the bathtub return channel 126. Water flowing to one end of the bathtub return channel 126 is sent to the bathtub 4 via the circulation fitting 128. Water flowing to the other end of the bathtub return channel 126 is sent to the bathtub 4 via the reheat pump 132, the bathtub supply channel 134, and the circulation fitting 128.

[0040] The upstream end of the latent heat exchanger 56 of the second heat source unit 16 is connected to the downstream end of the first heating return channel 144. The downstream end of the latent heat exchanger 56 is connected to the upstream end of the second heating return channel 146. The downstream end of the second heating return channel 146 is connected to the water tank 148. The water tank 148 is a container open to the atmosphere and stores water (the heat medium in this embodiment). The water tank 148 is provided with a high water level electrode 150a and a low water level electrode 150b for detecting the internal water level. The water level detected by the high water level electrode 150a (high water level in the water tank) is higher than the water level detected by the low water level electrode 150b (low water level in the water tank). In addition, a water supply channel 152 is connected to the water tank 148 for replenishing water (heat medium) from a water supply source (not shown). The water supply channel 152 branches off from the water supply channel 84. A water supply control valve 154 is provided on the water supply channel 152 for opening and closing the water supply channel 152. When the water level inside the water tank 148 is lower than the low water level, the heating device 2 opens the water supply control valve 154, supplying water (heating medium) to the water tank 148 from the water supply source through the water supply channel 84 and the water supply channel 152. After this, when the water level inside the water tank 148 reaches the high water level, the heating device 2 closes the water supply control valve 154, stopping the supply of water to the water tank 148. Therefore, the water level inside the water tank 148 is maintained between the high water level and the low water level. In addition, a heat medium overflow channel 156 is provided on the water tank 148. The upstream end of the heat medium overflow channel 156 is connected to the inside of the water tank 148 via an overflow port 158 ​​that opens into the inside of the water tank 148. The downstream end of the heat medium overflow channel 156 is connected to the overflow channel 80. In the vertical direction, the lower end of the overflow port 158 ​​is positioned above the lower end of the high water level electrode 150a (i.e., the high water level of the tank). If the water level inside the tank 148 rises above the high water level for some reason and reaches the height of the lower end of the overflow port 158, water (heat medium) in the tank 148 flows into the overflow port 158. The water (heat medium) flowing into the overflow port 158 ​​is discharged to the drain through the heat medium overflow channel 156 and the overflow channel 80. This prevents water (heat medium) from overflowing from the tank 148.

[0041] At the lower part of the water tank 148, the upstream end of the third heating return channel 160 is connected. The downstream end of the third heating return channel 160 is connected to the suction port of the heating pump 162. The discharge port of the heating pump 162 is connected to the upstream end of the discharge channel 164. The downstream end of the discharge channel 164 branches into the low-temperature heating supply channel 166 and the fourth heating return channel 168. The downstream end of the low-temperature heating supply channel 166 is connected to the upstream end of the low-temperature heating return channel 170 via the low-temperature heating terminal 6. In this embodiment, the low-temperature heating terminal 6 is, for example, a floor heating panel. The low-temperature heating terminal 6 provides heating by dissipating heat through a heat transfer medium. An on / off valve, not shown, is built into the low-temperature heating terminal 6. This on / off valve opens when heating is provided by the low-temperature heating terminal 6 and closes when heating is not provided by the low-temperature heating terminal 6. Additionally, a low-temperature heating thermistor 172 is installed on the fourth heating return channel 168 to detect the temperature of the heat medium just delivered from the heating pump 162. The downstream end of the fourth heating return channel 168 is connected to the upstream end of the sensible heat exchanger 54. The downstream end of the sensible heat exchanger 54 is connected to the upstream end of the high-temperature heat medium channel 174. A heat exchanger outlet thermistor 176 is installed on the high-temperature heat medium channel 174. The heat exchanger outlet thermistor 176 is used to detect the temperature of the heat medium flowing into the high-temperature heat medium channel 174 from the sensible heat exchanger 54. The downstream end of the high-temperature heat medium channel 174 branches into a high-temperature heating supply channel 178, a reheating circulation channel 180, and a heating bypass channel 182. The downstream end of the high-temperature heating supply channel 178 is connected to the upstream end of the high-temperature heating return channel 184 via a high-temperature heating terminal 8. In this embodiment, the high-temperature heating terminal 8 is, for example, a bathroom heating dryer. The high-temperature heating terminal 8 provides heating by dissipating heat from the heat medium. An on / off valve, not shown, is built into the high-temperature heating terminal 8. This valve opens when heating is provided by the high-temperature heating terminal 8 and closes when not providing heating. The low-temperature heating return channel 170 and the high-temperature heating return channel 184 merge at their respective downstream ends and are connected to the upstream end of the first heating return channel 144. Additionally, the downstream end of the heating bypass channel 182 is connected to the lower part of the water tank 148. A bypass channel on / off valve 186 for opening and closing the heating bypass channel 182 is provided on the heating bypass channel 182. Furthermore, the downstream end of the reheating circulation channel 180 is connected to the first heating return channel 144. A reheating control valve 188 for opening and closing the reheating circulation channel 180 is provided on the upstream side of the reheating heat exchanger 136 on the reheating circulation channel 180.

[0042] When the heating device 2 uses the low-temperature heating terminal 6 for heating, the on / off valve (not shown) and the bypass channel on / off valve 186 built into the low-temperature heating terminal 6 are open, and the on / off valve (not shown) built into the high-temperature heating terminal 8 is closed. Additionally, for simplicity, the reheat control valve 188 is assumed to be in the closed state. In this state, the heating pump 162 is driven, and the burners 48a and 48b of the second heat source unit 16 are ignited. In this case, the heat medium flowing through the first heating return channel 144 flows into the latent heat exchanger 56. After being heated by the heat exchange in the latent heat exchanger 56, the heat medium flowing into the latent heat exchanger 56 is sent to the water tank 148 via the second heating return channel 146. The heat medium stored in the water tank 148 flows into the discharge channel 164 through the third heating return channel 160 and the heating pump 162. The heat medium flowing into and out of the discharge channel 164 branches as follows: it flows to the sensible heat exchanger 54 via the fourth heating return channel 168, and to the low-temperature heating terminal 6 via the low-temperature heating supply channel 166. The heat medium flowing into the sensible heat exchanger 54 via the fourth heating return channel 168 is heated by heat exchange in the sensible heat exchanger 54 and then flows into the high-temperature heat medium channel 174. The heat medium flowing into the high-temperature heat medium channel 174 flows into the water tank 148 via the heating bypass channel 182. Additionally, the heat medium flowing into the low-temperature heating terminal 6 via the low-temperature heating supply channel 166 dissipates heat in the low-temperature heating terminal 6 and then flows into the first heating return channel 144 via the low-temperature heating return channel 170. At this time, by adjusting the combustion rate of the burners 48a and 48b of the second heat source unit 16 and the output of the heating pump 162, the temperature of the heat medium flowing through the low-temperature heating terminal 6 can be adjusted to the desired temperature.

[0043] When the heating device 2 uses the high-temperature heating terminal 8 for heating, the on / off valve (not shown) built into the high-temperature heating terminal 8 is open, and the on / off valve (not shown) built into the low-temperature heating terminal 6 and the bypass channel on / off valve 186 are closed. In this state, the heating pump 162 is driven, and the burners 48a and 48b of the second heat source unit 16 are burning. In addition, for the sake of simplicity, the reheat control valve 188 is assumed to be in the closed state. In this case, the heat medium flowing through the first heating return channel 144 flows into the latent heat exchanger 56. After being heated by the heat exchange in the latent heat exchanger 56, the heat medium flowing into the latent heat exchanger 56 is sent to the water tank 148 via the second heating return channel 146. The heat medium stored in the water tank 148 flows into the sensible heat exchanger 54 via the third heating return channel 160, the heating pump 162, the discharge channel 164, and the fourth heating return channel 168. The heat medium flowing into the sensible heat exchanger 54 is heated by heat exchange in the sensible heat exchanger 54 and then flows into the high-temperature heat medium channel 174. The heat medium flowing into the high-temperature heat medium channel 174 flows into the high-temperature heating terminal 8 via the high-temperature heating supply channel 178. After the heat medium flowing into the high-temperature heating terminal 8 dissipates heat, it flows into the first heating return channel 144 via the high-temperature heating return channel 184. At this time, by adjusting the combustion rate of the burners 48a and 48b of the second heat source unit 16 and the output of the heating pump 162, the temperature of the heat medium flowing through the high-temperature heating terminal 8 can be adjusted to the desired temperature.

[0044] When the heating device 2 provides heating using both the low-temperature heating terminal 6 and the high-temperature heating terminal 8, the on / off valves (not shown) built into the low-temperature heating terminal 6 and the high-temperature heating terminal 8 are open, while the bypass channel on / off valve 186 is closed. In this state, the heating pump 162 is driven, and the burners 48a and 48b of the second heat source unit 16 are ignited. For simplicity, the reheat control valve 188 is assumed to be closed. In this case, the heat medium flowing through the first heating return channel 144 flows into the latent heat exchanger 56. After being heated by heat exchange in the latent heat exchanger 56, the heat medium is sent to the water tank 148 via the second heating return channel 146. The heat medium stored in the water tank 148 flows into the discharge channel 164 via the third heating return channel 160 and the heating pump 162. The heat medium flowing into and out of the discharge channel 164 is branched into two streams: one flowing to the sensible heat exchanger 54 via the fourth heating return channel 168, and the other flowing to the low-temperature heating terminal 6 via the low-temperature heating supply channel 166. The heat medium flowing into the low-temperature heating terminal 6 via the low-temperature heating supply channel 166, after dissipating heat at the low-temperature heating terminal 6, flows into the first heating return channel 144 via the low-temperature heating return channel 170. Conversely, the heat medium flowing into the sensible heat exchanger 54 via the fourth heating return channel 168, after being heated by heat exchange in the sensible heat exchanger 54, flows into the high-temperature heating terminal 8 via the high-temperature heating supply channel 178. The heat medium flowing into the high-temperature heating terminal 8 via the high-temperature heating supply channel 178, after dissipating heat at the high-temperature heating terminal 8, flows into the first heating return channel 144 via the high-temperature heating return channel 184. At this time, by adjusting the combustion output of the burners 48a and 48b of the second heat source unit 16 and the output of the heating pump 162, the temperature of the heat medium flowing through the low-temperature heating terminal 6 and the high-temperature heating terminal 8 can be adjusted to the desired temperature respectively.

[0045] When the heating device 2 reheats the bathtub 4, with the reheat control valve 188 open, the reheat pump 132 and the heating pump 162 are driven, and the burners 48a and 48b of the second heat source unit 16 are ignited. For simplicity, the on / off valve (not shown) built into the low-temperature heating terminal 6, the on / off valve (not shown) built into the high-temperature heating terminal 8, and the bypass channel on / off valve 186 are all closed. In this case, the heat medium flowing through the first heating return channel 144 flows into the latent heat exchanger 56. After being heated by heat exchange in the latent heat exchanger 56, the heat medium flowing into the latent heat exchanger 56 is sent to the water tank 148 via the second heating return channel 146. The heat medium stored in the water tank 148 flows into the sensible heat exchanger 54 via the third heating return channel 160, the heating pump 162, the discharge channel 164, and the fourth heating return channel 168. The heat medium flowing into the sensible heat exchanger 54 is heated by heat exchange in the sensible heat exchanger 54, and then flows into the reheating circulation channel 180 via the high-temperature heat medium channel 174. The heat medium flowing into the reheating circulation channel 180 exchanges heat with the water flowing into the bathtub supply channel 134 in the reheating heat exchanger 136, thereby being cooled, and then returns to the first heating return channel 144. In addition, the water in the bathtub 4 flows into the bathtub return channel 126 via the circulation fitting 128, and then flows into the bathtub supply channel 134 via the reheating pump 132. The water flowing into the bathtub supply channel 134 exchanges heat with the heat medium flowing through the reheating circulation channel 180 in the reheating heat exchanger 136, thereby being heated, and then returns to the bathtub 4 via the circulation fitting 128. At this time, by adjusting the combustion rate of the burners 48a and 48b of the second heat source unit 16 and the output of the heating pump 162, water heated to the desired temperature can be supplied to the bathtub 4.

[0046] In this embodiment, the water supply channel 84, latent heat exchanger 40, connecting channel 86, sensible heat exchanger 38, hot water supply channel 88, hot water supply bypass channel 90, heat exchanger bypass channel 108, hot water injection channel 110, bathtub return channel 126, reheating pump 132, and bathtub water supply channel 134 are collectively referred to as "bathtub hot water supply circuit B". Additionally, the first heating return channel 144, latent heat exchanger 56, second heating return channel 146, water tank 148, third heating return channel 160, heating pump 162, discharge channel 164, low-temperature heating supply channel 166, fourth heating return channel 168, sensible heat exchanger 54, high-temperature heat medium channel 174, high-temperature heating supply channel 178, reheating circulation channel 180, and heating bypass channel 182 are collectively referred to as "heating circuit H". Additionally, it should be noted that in this embodiment, the sensible heat exchanger 54 primarily heats the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit H. It should also be noted that the latent heat exchanger 56 provides auxiliary heating of the heat medium by utilizing the latent heat generated when moisture contained in the combustion gases condenses.

[0047] The heating device 2 also includes a microbubble generator 190 and an air introduction mechanism 192. The microbubble generator 190 is located in the third heating return channel 160. The air introduction mechanism 192 is located between the microbubble generator 190 and the water tank 148.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, the microbubble generator 190 includes a housing 194, a first microbubble generator 196, and a second microbubble generator 198. The housing 194 has a generally cylindrical shape. The housing 194 can be considered as part of the heating circuit H (specifically, the third heating return channel 160). An inlet section 200 for water (heat medium) to flow into is provided at the upstream end of the housing 194. An outlet section 202 for water to flow out is provided at the downstream end of the housing 194. The first microbubble generator 196 is housed within the housing 194. The first microbubble generator 196 has a main body 204 and multiple Venturi tube flow paths 206 penetrating the main body 204. Each of the multiple Venturi tube flow paths 206 has: a narrowing flow path 208 whose flow path diameter decreases from upstream to downstream; and an expanding flow path 210 located downstream of the narrowing flow path 208, whose flow path diameter increases from upstream to downstream. Between the narrowing flow path 208 and the expanding flow path 210, a throat 209 of the Venturi tube flow path 206 with the smallest flow path diameter is provided. Furthermore, the second microbubble generator 198 is housed in a housing 194 downstream of the first microbubble generator 196. The second microbubble generator 198 has: a shaft portion 212 extending in a direction from upstream to downstream; an outer peripheral portion 214 surrounding the radially outer side of the shaft portion 212; and multiple blade portions 216 disposed between the shaft portion 212 and the outer peripheral portion 214. A swirling flow path 218 is formed between the shaft portion 212, the outer peripheral portion 214, and the multiple blade portions 216.

[0049] like Figure 1 As shown, the air inlet mechanism 192 has an air inlet channel 220 extending between the microbubble generator 190 and the water tank 148. The downstream end of the air inlet channel 220 is connected to the third heating return channel 160 via the microbubble generator 190. Specifically, the downstream end of the air inlet channel 220 is connected to the throat 209 of the Venturi tube flow path 206 (see reference). Figure 2 Additionally, the upstream end of the air inlet channel 220 is connected to the interior of the water tank 148 via an air inlet 222 that opens into the interior of the water tank 148. Furthermore, in the vertical direction, the lower end of the air inlet 222 is positioned above the upper end of the overflow port 158.

[0050] When water (heat medium) flows through Figure 2In the case of the microbubble generator 190 shown, water first flows into the Venturi tube flow path 206 of the first microbubble generator 196. As the water passes through the narrowing flow path 208 of the Venturi tube flow path 206, the pressure is reduced to below atmospheric pressure. Accordingly, air pre-dissolved in the water flowing through the narrowing flow path 208 is converted into bubbles and precipitated. Furthermore, a negative pressure (below atmospheric pressure) is generated at the throat 209 through which the water, after being depressurized in the narrowing flow path 208, passes. Through this negative pressure, air inside the water tank 148 is drawn into the throat 209 via the air inlet 222 through the air inlet channel 220. The air drawn into the throat 209 is converted into bubbles and mixed with the water flowing through the throat 209. Therefore, the water flowing from the throat 209 into the expanding flow path 210 contains not only bubbles precipitated from the water but also bubbles drawn in from the air inlet channel 220. After this, the water is pressurized to above atmospheric pressure as it passes through the expanding flow path 210. Accordingly, the air bubbles contained in the water break down into microbubbles. Additionally, water flowing from the Venturi tube flow path 206 flows into the swirling flow path 218 of the second microbubble generator 198. As the water flows through the swirling flow path 218, a swirling flow is generated, where the water flows spirally around the shaft 212. At this time, the microbubbles contained in the water are further broken down into even smaller bubbles under the shear force generated by the swirling flow. In this way, microbubbles are generated in the circuit (heating circuit H) where the microbubble generator 190 is installed.

[0051] Flowing through Figure 1 In the heating medium of the heating circuit H shown, components that cause fouling are sometimes mixed in. Examples of such fouling-causing components include magnesium ions and calcium ions, which cause limescale formation. These fouling-causing components may contain cations. In contrast, the microbubbles generated by the microbubble generator 190 are typically negatively charged. Therefore, the microbubbles generated by the microbubble generator 190 can adsorb the fouling-causing components. This inhibits fouling from adhering to the inner wall of the passage constituting the heating circuit H. Furthermore, a portion of the microbubbles generated by the microbubble generator 190 are generated in such a way that they cover the inner wall of the passage constituting the heating circuit H. This also inhibits fouling from adhering to the inner wall of the passage constituting the heating circuit H.

[0052] In this embodiment, even if the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit H flows into the air inlet channel 220 and exits through the air inlet 222 to the outside of the air inlet channel 220, the heat medium will still flow into the interior of the water tank 148. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit H from flowing to an unintended location. In particular, in this embodiment, since the lower end of the air inlet 222 is positioned above the upper end of the overflow port 158 ​​in the vertical direction, the water level inside the water tank 148 will not reach the height of the lower end of the air inlet 222. Therefore, when air from inside the water tank 148 is drawn into the air inlet channel 220 through the air inlet 222, water from inside the water tank 148 will not be simultaneously drawn into the air inlet channel 220 through the air inlet 222. Therefore, it is possible to adequately introduce air from inside the water tank 148 into the heating circuit H.

[0053] (Example 2: Thermal device 252) Figure 3 The heat device 252 shown has the same heat device 2 as in Embodiment 1 (see reference). Figure 1 They have largely the same structure. The same reference numerals are used to label identical structural elements between thermal device 252 and thermal device 2, and their descriptions are omitted. The differences between thermal device 252 and thermal device 2 will be described below.

[0054] The difference between heating device 252 and heating device 2 is that the microbubble generator 190 is not located in the third heating return channel 160, but in the hot water supply channel 88 of the bathtub hot water supply circuit B. The air inlet 222 of the air inlet mechanism 192 is not located in the water tank 148, but in the neutralizer 72. Specifically, the microbubble generator 190 is located downstream of the connection between the hot water supply channel 88 and the hot water supply bypass channel 90, and upstream of the hot water supply thermistor 104. The air inlet 222 is located above the lower end of the overflow port 76 and opens into the space downstream of the trap structure 74.

[0055] When water flows into the interior of the microbubble generator 190 (i.e., the hot water supply channel 88), the negative pressure generated by the water flow draws air from inside the neutralizer 72 into the microbubble generator 190 through the air inlet 222 via the air inlet channel 220. The air drawn into the microbubble generator 190 then dissolves in the water. The microbubble generator 190 then generates microbubbles in the water flowing through the hot water supply channel 88 using the same principle as the microbubble generator 190 described in Example 1. Therefore, when the heating device 252 supplies hot water to a faucet (not shown), water containing microbubbles is supplied to the faucet. Similarly, when the heating device 252 injects hot water into the bathtub 4, water containing microbubbles is supplied to the bathtub 4.

[0056] In this embodiment, even if water flowing through the bathtub hot water supply circuit B flows into the air inlet channel 220 and exits to the outside of the air inlet channel 220 via the air inlet 222, the water will still flow into the interior of the neutralizer 72. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent water flowing through the bathtub hot water supply circuit B from flowing to unintended locations.

[0057] (Example 3: Thermal device 302) Figure 4 The heat device 302 shown has the same heat device 2 as in Embodiment 1 (see reference). Figure 1 They have roughly the same structure. The same structural elements between thermal device 302 and thermal device 2 are labeled with the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted. The differences between thermal device 302 and thermal device 2 will be explained below.

[0058] The difference between heating device 302 and heating device 2 is that the microbubble generator 190 is not located in the third heating return channel 160, but in the bathtub water supply channel 134 of the bathtub hot water supply circuit B. The air inlet 222 of the air inlet mechanism 192 is not located in the water tank 148, but in the overflow channel 80. Specifically, the microbubble generator 190 is located downstream of the reheating heat exchanger 136 and upstream of the bathtub water supply thermistor 142. Specifically, the air inlet 222 is located downstream of the connection between the overflow channel 80 and the drain channel 120.

[0059] When water flows into the interior of the microbubble generator 190 (i.e., the bathtub water supply channel 134), the negative pressure generated by the water flow draws air from inside the overflow channel 80 into the microbubble generator 190 through the air inlet 222 via the air inlet 220. The air drawn into the microbubble generator 190 then dissolves in the water. The microbubble generator 190 then generates microbubbles in the water flowing through the bathtub water supply channel 134 using the same principle as the microbubble generator 190 described in Example 1. Therefore, when the heating device 302 injects hot water into the bathtub 4, water containing microbubbles is supplied to the bathtub 4. Additionally, when the heating device 302 reheats the bathtub 4, water containing microbubbles is supplied to the bathtub 4.

[0060] In this embodiment, even if water flowing through the bathtub hot water supply circuit B flows into the air inlet channel 220 and flows out of the air inlet channel 220 via the air inlet 222, the water will still flow to the overflow channel 80. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent water flowing through the bathtub hot water supply circuit B from flowing to unintended locations.

[0061] (Modifications of Examples 1, 2, and 3) In embodiments 1, 2, and 3, the heat transfer medium flowing in the heating circuit H can also be a liquid other than water (e.g., antifreeze). In this case, the heating devices 2, 252, and 302 may not have a water supply channel 152 and a water supply control valve 154.

[0062] In embodiments 1, 2, and 3, instead of the first heat source 14 and / or the second heat source 16, or based thereon, the heat devices 2, 252, and 302 may also have heat source types different from combustion-type heat source devices. For example, the heat devices 2, 252, and 302 may also have electric heaters, heat pumps, and / or combined heat and power systems.

[0063] In embodiments 1, 2, and 3, the microbubble generator 190 can also be replaced with a microbubble generator of different forms. For example, the microbubble generator 190 can also be replaced with a generator having a pressurizer (e.g., a pressurizing tank) and a depressurizer (e.g., a venturi tube), wherein the pressurizer pressurizes the liquid to dissolve air in the liquid; and the depressurizer depressurizes the liquid to precipitate microbubbles.

[0064] In embodiments 1, 2, and 3, the downstream end of the air inlet channel 220 can also be connected to the heating circuit H (or the bathtub hot water supply circuit B) without passing through the microbubble generator 190. For example, the downstream end of the air inlet channel 220 can also be connected to the heating circuit H (or the bathtub hot water supply circuit B) upstream of the microbubble generator 190. In this case, a pressure reducer (e.g., a venturi tube) that generates negative pressure with the flow of liquid can also be installed at the location where the air inlet channel 220 is connected. The negative pressure generated by the pressure reducer can also be used to draw air from the air inlet channel 220 into the heating circuit H (or the bathtub hot water supply circuit B).

[0065] In Embodiment 1, the air inlet 222 of the air introduction mechanism 192 may not be located in the water tank 148, but rather in the neutralizer 72 (the location of the air inlet 222 disclosed in Embodiment 2). In this case, air inside the neutralizer 72 can be introduced into the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit H. Alternatively, the air inlet 222 may not be located in the water tank 148, but rather in the overflow channel 80 (the location of the air inlet 222 disclosed in Embodiment 3). In this case, air inside the overflow channel 80 can be introduced into the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit H.

[0066] In Embodiment 2, the air inlet 222 of the air introduction mechanism 192 may not be located in the neutralizer 72, but rather in the water tank 148 (the location of the air inlet 222 disclosed in Embodiment 1). In this case, air inside the water tank 148 can be introduced into the water flowing through the hot water supply channel 88 of the bathtub hot water supply circuit B.

[0067] In Embodiment 1, the lower end of the air inlet 222 can be configured at a height higher than the lower end of the high water level electrode 150a (i.e., the high water level of the water tank) and lower than the lower end of the overflow port 158.

[0068] (The correspondences involved in Examples 1, 2, and 3) In embodiments 1, 2, and 3, heat devices 2, 252, and 302 are examples of "equipment". Water tank 148 (or neutralizer 72) is an example of a "container". Overflow channel 80 is an example of a "drainage channel". Heat medium (or water) is an example of a "liquid". Third heating return channel 160 (or hot water supply channel 88, bathtub water supply channel 134) is an example of a "liquid passage". Air inlet mechanism 192 is an example of an "air inlet". Microbubble generator 190 is an example of a "microbubble generator". Air inlet 222 is an example of an "air inlet". Air inlet channel 220 is an example of an "air inlet channel". Burners 48a and 48b, sensible heat exchanger 54, and latent heat exchanger 56 are examples of "heating units". Low-temperature heating terminal 6 and high-temperature heating terminal 8 are examples of "heating devices". Heating circuit H is an example of a "heating circuit". Heating pump 162 is an example of a "heating pump". Water tank 148 is an example of a "water tank". Overflow port 158 ​​is an example of a "first overflow port". Overflow passage 80 and heat medium overflow passage 156 are examples of a "first overflow passage". Burners 48a and 48b are examples of "burners". Latent heat exchanger 56 is an example of a "latent heat exchanger". Neutralizer 72 is an example of a "neutralizer". Overflow port 76 is an example of a "second overflow port". Overflow passage 80 is an example of a "second overflow passage".

[0069] (Example 4: Dishwasher 402) Figure 5 This is a longitudinal sectional view of dishwasher 402. Dishwasher 402 is a drawer-type dishwasher. Dishwasher 402 has a main body 512, a washing tank 514, a door 515, a washing machine controller 560, a microbubble generator 190, and an air introduction mechanism 192. In addition, the structure of the microbubble generator 190 and the air introduction mechanism 192 is substantially the same as that described in Embodiment 1.

[0070] An operation panel 516 and an exhaust path 518 are provided on the door 515. The operation panel 516 is equipped with various buttons such as a start button and lights. The exhaust path 518 extends from the inside to the outside of the cleaning tank 514.

[0071] The cleaning tank 514 is housed within the space formed by the main body 512 and the door 515. The cleaning tank 514 is slidably supported on the main body 512. The cleaning tank 514 is connected to the door 515. The cleaning tank 514 is formed as a box shape with an open top. A cover 556 is disposed on top of the cleaning tank 514. The cover 556 is connected to the cleaning tank 514 via a lifting mechanism (not shown).

[0072] The washing tank 514 houses a washing nozzle 520, a dish basket 561 for holding various tableware 519, a food residue filter 517, a heater 530, a thermistor 555, and other components. The washing nozzle 520 consists of a tower-type nozzle section 523 and a horizontal nozzle section 524, wherein the tower-type nozzle section 523 consists of an upper nozzle 521 and a lower nozzle 522. Multiple spray nozzles 521a, 522a, and 524a are formed in the washing nozzle 520. An electric heater 530 for heating the water and air within the washing tank 514 is installed near the bottom surface 539 of the washing tank 514. A thermistor 555 is installed on the bottom surface 539 of the washing tank 514.

[0073] A water level detection unit 545 for detecting the water level inside the cleaning tank 514 is provided on the lower part of the outer front side of the cleaning tank 514. The water level under normal water supply to the cleaning tank 514 (hereinafter referred to as "cleaning water level") is indicated by a double-dotted line of the attached drawing 554. A cleaning pump 527 is provided below the bottom surface 539 of the cleaning tank 514. The cleaning pump 527 rotates the impeller 528 via a built-in motor. A cleaning nozzle 520 is rotatably mounted on the bottom surface 539 of the cleaning tank 514. The cleaning nozzle 520 is connected to the first outlet 511 of the cleaning pump 527.

[0074] A suction recess 531 is formed at the bottom of the cleaning tank 514. The upper opening of the suction recess 531 is covered by a food residue filter 517. A water level detection unit 545 is connected to the suction recess 531 via a water level path 550. A cleaning pump 527 is connected to the suction recess 531 via a first suction flow path 532. One end of a second suction flow path 574 is connected to the first suction flow path 532. The other end of the second suction flow path 574 is connected to an opening 572 in the rear wall 551 of the cleaning tank 514. A flow path switching valve 576 is installed at the connection between the first suction flow path 532 and the second suction flow path 574.

[0075] A drying fan 552 is installed on the outer side of the rear wall 551 of the cleaning tank 514. The drying fan 552 is driven by a built-in motor to rotate the fan 553. The drying fan 552 is connected to the inside of the cleaning tank 514 via a drying path 563. The drying fan 552 is positioned higher than the cleaning water level 554.

[0076] A drain hose 534 is connected to the rear wall 533 of the main body 512. The drain hose 534 and the second outlet 535 of the cleaning pump 527 are connected through a drain passage 536. The drain passage 536 is connected to the cleaning tank 514 through an exhaust path 537. A drain check valve 538 is installed near the connection point of the drain passage 536 with the drain hose 534.

[0077] A water supply hose 540 is connected to a step formed horizontally in the middle of the rear wall 533 of the main body 512. Sometimes water supplied directly to the water supply hose 540 from a waterworks or other water source (not shown), and sometimes heated warm water is supplied to the water supply hose 540. A water supply valve 541 is installed on the inner side of the rear wall 533. The inlet 544 of the water supply valve 541 and the water supply hose 540 are connected through a first water supply path 542. The outlet 564 of the water supply valve 541 and the cleaning tank 514 are connected through a second water supply path 543.

[0078] The dishwasher controller 560 has a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and controls the operation of the dishwasher 402. The dishwasher controller 560 controls the operation of the dishwasher 402 to perform the cleaning operation control of the dishes 519 in the cleaning tank 514.

[0079] (Cleaning operation control) When the cleaning machine controller 560 receives the user's command to start the tableware cleaning operation control on the operation panel 516, it sequentially executes the cleaning process, the rinsing process, and the drying process.

[0080] During the cleaning process, the cleaning machine controller 560 opens the water supply valve 541, supplying water to the cleaning tank 514 via the water supply hose 540. At this time, detergent stored in a detergent tank (not shown) is added to the water supplied to the cleaning tank 514. Therefore, during the cleaning process, water with added detergent (hereinafter also referred to as cleaning water) is supplied to the cleaning tank 514. When the cleaning machine controller 560 determines that the required amount of cleaning water for the cleaning process has been supplied to the cleaning tank 514, it closes the water supply valve 541. Next, the cleaning machine controller 560 drives the cleaning pump 527, causing the impeller 528 to rotate forward, and simultaneously turns on the heater 530. Due to the forward rotation of the impeller 528, cleaning water is drawn into the cleaning pump 527 from the suction recess 531 and sent to the cleaning nozzle 520. The cleaning water sent to the cleaning nozzle 520 is forcefully sprayed out from the spray ports 521a, 522a, and 524a. This is how the tableware 519 is cleaned. When the first predetermined time (e.g., 5 minutes) has elapsed since the start of the cleaning process, the cleaning machine controller 560 terminates the cleaning process. Additionally, the cleaning machine controller 560 drives the cleaning pump 527, causing the impeller 528 to reverse. By reversing the impeller 528, cleaning water is drawn into the cleaning pump 527 from the suction recess 531 and delivered to the drain hose 534 through the drain path 536. Accordingly, the cleaning water is discharged from the cleaning tank 514.

[0081] In the rinsing process, the washing machine controller 560 opens the water supply valve 541, supplying rinsing water to the washing tank 514 via the water supply hose 540. The rinsing water referred to here is water without added detergent. When the required amount of rinsing water for the rinsing process is supplied to the washing tank 514, the washing machine controller 560 closes the water supply valve 541. The washing machine controller 560 drives the washing pump 527, causing the impeller 528 to rotate forward. Due to the forward rotation of the impeller 528, rinsing water is drawn into the washing pump 527 from the suction recess 531 and delivered to the washing nozzles 520. The rinsing water delivered to the washing nozzles 520 is forcefully sprayed out from the spray ports 521a, 522a, and 524a. This rinsing of the tableware 519 is performed. When a second predetermined time (e.g., 5 minutes) has elapsed since the start of the rinsing process, the washing machine controller 560 ends the rinsing process. Alternatively, the washing machine controller 560 drives the washing pump 527, causing the impeller 528 to rotate in reverse. By reversing the impeller 528, rinse water is drawn into the cleaning pump 527 from the suction recess 531 and sent to the drain hose 534 via the drain passage 536. Accordingly, the rinse water is discharged from the cleaning tank 514.

[0082] During the drying process, the washing machine controller 560 heats the air in the washing tank 514 via the heater 530, thereby drying the tableware 519. When the elapsed time since the start of drying the tableware 519 reaches the third predetermined time (e.g., 20 minutes), the washing machine controller 560 stops heating the heater 530, thereby ending the drying process.

[0083] A microbubble generator 190 is provided in the second water supply path 543. Furthermore, the air inlet 222 of the air inlet mechanism 192 is provided in the cleaning tank 514. The air inlet 222 is located inside the cleaning tank 514, vertically above the cleaning water level 554. When water flows into the microbubble generator 190 (i.e., the second water supply path 543), the negative pressure generated by the water flow draws air from inside the cleaning tank 514 into the microbubble generator 190 via the air inlet 222 through the air inlet channel 220. The air drawn into the microbubble generator 190 then dissolves in the water. The microbubble generator 190 then generates microbubbles in the water flowing through the second water supply path 543 using the same principle as the microbubble generator 190 described in Embodiment 1. Therefore, the water supplied to the cleaning tank 514 during the cleaning and rinsing processes contains a large number of microbubbles. The dirt adhering to the tableware 519 is adsorbed onto the surface of the tiny bubbles in the water. Because the water contains a large number of tiny bubbles, it can adsorb even more dirt.

[0084] In this embodiment, even if the water flowing through the second water supply path 543 flows into the air inlet channel 220 and flows out of the air inlet channel 220 via the air inlet 222, the water will still flow into the interior of the cleaning tank 514. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the water flowing through the second water supply path 543 from flowing to an unintended location.

[0085] (Example 5: Dishwasher 502) Figure 6 The dishwasher 502 shown has the same features as the dishwasher 402 of embodiment 4 (see reference). Figure 5 The structures are largely the same. For structural elements identical to those in dishwashers 502 and 402, the same reference numerals are used, and their descriptions are omitted. The differences between dishwashers 502 and 402 will be explained below.

[0086] The difference between dishwasher 502 and dishwasher 402 is that the microbubble generator 190 is not located in the second water supply path 543, but in the first outlet 511 of the cleaning pump 527, and the air inlet 222 of the air inlet mechanism 192 is not located in the cleaning tank 514, but in the drain path 536. Specifically, the air inlet 222 is located in a position where the water stored in the drain trap 536a formed in the drain path 536 will not reach it.

[0087] When water flows into the interior of the microbubble generator 190 (i.e., the first outlet 511), the negative pressure generated by the water flow draws air from inside the drain path 536 into the microbubble generator 190 via the air inlet 222 through the air inlet channel 220. The air drawn into the microbubble generator 190 then dissolves in the water. The microbubble generator 190 then generates microbubbles in the water flowing through the first outlet 511 using the same principle as the microbubble generator 190 described in Example 1. Therefore, the water sprayed from the spray nozzles 521a, 522a, and 524a during the cleaning and rinsing processes contains a large number of microbubbles.

[0088] In this embodiment, even if water flowing through the first outlet 511 flows into the air inlet channel 220 and exits to the outside of the air inlet channel 220 via the air inlet 222, the water will still flow to the drainage path 536. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent water flowing through the first outlet 511 from flowing to an unintended location.

[0089] (Modifications of Examples 4 and 5) In Embodiment 4, the air inlet 222 of the air introduction mechanism 192 may not be located in the cleaning tank 514, but rather in the drainage path 536 (the location of the air inlet 222 disclosed in Embodiment 5). In this case, air inside the drainage path 536 can be introduced into water flowing through the second water supply path 543.

[0090] In embodiments 4 and 5, the microbubble generator 190 can also be replaced with a microbubble generator of a different form. For example, the microbubble generator 190 can also be replaced with a generator having a pressurizer (e.g., a pressurizing tank) and a depressurizer (e.g., a venturi tube), wherein the pressurizer pressurizes the liquid to dissolve air in the liquid; and the depressurizer depressurizes the liquid to precipitate microbubbles (e.g., a venturi tube).

[0091] In embodiments 4 and 5, the downstream end of the air inlet channel 220 can also be connected to the second water supply path 543 (or the first outlet 511) without passing through the microbubble generator 190. For example, the downstream end of the air inlet channel 220 can also be connected to the second water supply path 543 (or the first outlet 511) upstream of the microbubble generator 190. In this case, a pressure reducer (e.g., a venturi tube) that generates negative pressure with the flow of water can also be provided at the location where the air inlet channel 220 is connected. The negative pressure generated by the pressure reducer can also be used to draw air from the air inlet channel 220 into the second water supply path 543 (or the first outlet 511).

[0092] (The correspondence involved in Examples 4 and 5) In embodiments 4 and 5, dishwashers 402 and 502 are examples of "equipment". The washing tank 514 is an example of a "container". The drain path 536 is an example of a "drainage channel". Water is an example of a "liquid". The second water supply path 543 (or the first outlet 511) is an example of a "liquid passage". The air inlet mechanism 192 is an example of an "air inlet". The microbubble generator 190 is an example of a "microbubble generator". The air inlet 222 is an example of an "air inlet". The air inlet channel 220 is an example of an "air inlet channel". The washing tank 514 is an example of a "washing tank". The second water supply path 543 is an example of a "water supply channel". The washing nozzle 520 is an example of a "washing nozzle". The first outlet 511 is an example of a "washing channel". The washing pump 527 is an example of a "washing pump". The drain path 536 is an example of a "drainage channel".

[0093] The technical elements described in this specification or drawings can exert technical usefulness individually or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations described in the technical solution at the time of application. Furthermore, the technologies exemplified in this specification or drawings can achieve multiple objectives simultaneously, and achieving one of these objectives is itself technically useful.

Claims

1. A device, characterized in that, It has a container, a liquid passage, an air inlet, and a microbubble generator, wherein, The container is open to the atmosphere; The interior of the liquid passage is used for liquid flow; The air inlet is used to introduce air into the liquid passage; The microbubble generator is disposed in the liquid passage, and uses air introduced into the liquid passage to generate microbubbles in the liquid flowing through the liquid passage. The air inlet has an air inlet and an air inlet channel, wherein... The air inlet opens into the interior of the container; The air inlet channel connects the interior of the liquid passage to the air inlet.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a heating element, a heating circuit, a heating pump, and a water tank. The heating element is used to heat the heat medium; The heating circuit circulates the heat medium heated by the heating unit to the heating device that provides heating by dissipating heat through the heat medium. The heating pump is used to pressurize and deliver the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit; The water tank is located in the heating circuit. The container includes the water tank.

3. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also features a burner, a latent heat exchanger, and a neutralizer, among which, The latent heat exchanger heats the heat medium by recovering the latent heat of the combustion gases generated by the burner; The neutralizer is used to neutralize the drainage generated in the latent heat exchanger. The container includes the neutralizer.

4. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a cleaning tank, water supply channel, cleaning nozzles, cleaning channel, cleaning pump, and drainage channel. The washing tank is used to hold tableware; The water supply channel allows water to flow from the water supply source to the cleaning tank; The cleaning nozzle is disposed inside the cleaning tank; The cleaning channel is located inside the cleaning tank and is connected to the cleaning nozzle; The cleaning pump is used to pressurize the water inside the cleaning tank to the cleaning nozzle through the cleaning channel; The drainage channel allows water discharged from the cleaning tank to flow. The liquid passage is the water supply passage. The container includes the cleaning tank.

5. A device, characterized in that, It has a drainage channel, a liquid passage, an air inlet, and a microbubble generator, wherein, The drainage channel is open to the atmosphere; The interior of the liquid passage is used for liquid flow; The air inlet introduces air into the liquid passage; The microbubble generator is disposed in the liquid passage, and uses air introduced into the liquid passage to generate microbubbles in the liquid flowing through the liquid passage. The air inlet has an air inlet and an air inlet channel, wherein... The air inlet opens into the interior of the drain channel; The air inlet channel connects the interior of the liquid passage to the air inlet.

6. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a heating element, a heating circuit, a heating pump, a water tank, and a first overflow channel, among which, The heating element is used to heat the heat medium; The heating circuit circulates the heat medium heated by the heating unit to the heating device that provides heating by dissipating heat through the heat medium. The heating pump is used to pressurize and deliver the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit; The water tank is located in the heating circuit; One end of the first overflow channel is connected to the first overflow port of the water tank, and the other end is connected to the designated drainage point. The drainage channel includes the first overflow channel.

7. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also features a burner, a latent heat exchanger, a neutralizer, and a second overflow channel, among which, The latent heat exchanger heats the heat medium by recovering the latent heat of the combustion gases generated by the burner; The neutralizer is used to neutralize the drainage generated in the latent heat exchanger; One end of the second overflow channel is connected to the second overflow port of the neutralizer, and the other end is connected to the designated drainage point. The drainage channel includes the second overflow channel.

8. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a cleaning tank, water supply channel, cleaning nozzles, cleaning channel, cleaning pump, and drainage channel. The washing tank is used to hold tableware; The water supply channel allows water to flow from the water supply source to the cleaning tank; The cleaning nozzle is disposed inside the cleaning tank; The cleaning channel is located inside the cleaning tank and is connected to the cleaning nozzle; The cleaning pump is used to pressurize the water inside the cleaning tank to the cleaning nozzle through the cleaning channel; The drainage channel allows water discharged from the cleaning tank to flow. The liquid passage is at least one of the water supply passage and the cleaning passage. The drainage channel includes the water discharge channel.

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