Water server, water supply method, program, storage medium, and control device

Abstract

To provide a water server with improved water injection performance due to AC power feeding or battery power feeding, and suppressed battery consumption.SOLUTION: A water server that operates by AC power feeding or battery power feeding comprises: a water injection operation part (electromagnetic valve part 24) capable of operating by the battery power feeding when an AC power supply fails; a start switch (start button 10) that starts the battery power feeding when an AC power supply fails; and a control part (20) that starts the battery power feeding to the water injection operation part upon receiving an operation of the start switch when the AC power supply fails, cancels the battery power feeding to the water injection operation part after a certain amount of time from a start of the battery power feeding, or when there is a water injection action by the water injection operation part before the certain amount of time has passed, cancels the battery power feeding to the water injection operation part after the water injection action ends.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a water server that can dispense water using a power supply other than AC power, such as battery power, during a power outage of AC power supply. [Background technology]

[0002] Water servers generate hot and cold water from water supply, with hot water stored in a hot water tank and cold water stored in a cold water tank. Hot water is generated by heating a hot water heater, and cold water is generated by cooling a cooling device. These are powered by AC power.

[0003] Regarding this type of water server, a disaster-response water server is known that stops the operation of the cooling device during a power outage and enables the electric pump to be driven by a battery (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-138764 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] By the way, when batteries are used to power a water server, it is necessary to constantly manage the battery charge in preparation for disasters, and even if the cooling device is stopped in the event of a disaster, using a battery to power an electric pump poses the problem of battery depletion. If the battery runs out, it becomes difficult to charge it, and it is necessary to assume that the water server will not be able to be used.

[0006] During a power outage, hot and cold water is generated in the water server during AC power supply before the power outage, and the hot water is stored in the hot water tank and the cold water is stored in the cold water tank. Therefore, hot and cold water can be used at the appropriate temperature immediately after the power outage. For example, during a power outage in winter, hot water in the hot water tank is a valuable resource, and during a power outage in summer, cold water in the cold water tank is also a valuable resource.

[0007] In response to such issues, the inventors of the present disclosure have discovered that if they can make it possible to power the water server using readily available batteries, enable water to be poured from within the server, and reduce battery consumption, they can realize a convenient water server that can be used in times of disaster.

[0008] Therefore, in consideration of the above problems and findings, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a water server that improves water injection performance when powered by AC or battery, while suppressing battery consumption. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, according to one aspect of the water server disclosed herein, the water server operates using AC power or battery power, and includes a water injection operation unit that can operate using the battery power when the AC power supply is interrupted, a start-up switch that starts the battery power supply when the AC power supply is interrupted, and a control unit that starts the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit in response to operation of the start-up switch when the AC power supply is interrupted, and terminates the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit a certain time after the start of the battery power supply, or, if the water injection operation of the water injection operation unit is performed before the certain time has elapsed, terminates the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit after the water injection operation is completed.

[0010] This water server may be provided with an AC detection unit that detects power supply from the AC power source, and the control unit may allow the start switch to be operated in the event of a power outage of the AC power source, and when the start switch is operated, cause the water injection operating unit to start supplying power from the battery.

[0011] In this water server, when the AC power supply is interrupted, the control unit maintains the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit if the continuous elapsed time from the transition to power outage mode by operating the start switch is within a threshold value, and if a water injection operation is performed within the threshold value, the control unit may cancel the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit after the water injection operation is completed.

[0012] This water server may include, in addition to the water pouring operation unit and the control unit, which are powered by the battery, an information presentation unit that presents at least information.

[0013] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, according to one aspect of the water supply method for a water server disclosed herein, the water supply method for a water server that operates using AC power or battery power includes the steps of: when an AC power supply is interrupted, pouring water using a water injection operation unit that can operate using battery power; when the AC power supply is interrupted, starting the battery power supply using a start-up switch; and when the AC power supply is interrupted, a control unit starts the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit in response to operation of the start-up switch, and cancels the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit a fixed time after the start of the battery power supply, or, when a water injection operation of the water injection operation unit occurs before the fixed time has elapsed, canceling the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit after the water injection operation is completed.

[0014] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, according to one aspect of the program disclosed herein, the program is to be executed by a computer mounted on a water server that operates using AC power or battery power, and causes the computer to execute the following functions: when an AC power supply is interrupted, maintain a water injection operation unit in operable state using the battery power supply; when the AC power supply is interrupted, start the battery power supply using a start switch; and when the AC power supply is interrupted, start the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit in response to operation of the start switch, and release the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit a certain time after the start of the battery power supply; or, when a water injection operation is performed by the water injection operation unit before the certain time has elapsed, release the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit after the water injection operation is completed.

[0015] In order to achieve the above object, one aspect of a recording medium of the present disclosure is a recording medium storing the program.

[0016] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, according to one aspect of the control device for a water server disclosed herein, the control device for a water server is provided with a water injection operation unit that can be operated by battery power when an AC power supply is interrupted, and includes a control unit that, when the AC power supply is interrupted, receives operation of a start-up switch that starts the battery power supply, starts the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit, and cancels the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit a fixed time after the start of the battery power supply, or, if the water injection operation of the water injection operation unit occurs before the fixed time has elapsed, cancels the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit after the water injection operation is completed.

[0017] This water server control device may further include an AC detection unit that detects power supply from the AC power source, and the control unit may allow operation of the start switch when the AC power source is interrupted, and may start battery power supply to the water injection operating unit when the start switch is operated.

[0018] The control device for the water server may include, in addition to the water pouring operation unit and the control unit, which are powered by the battery, an information presentation unit that presents at least information. Effect of the Invention

[0019] According to the present disclosure, any of the following effects can be obtained. (1) During a power outage when the AC power supply is interrupted, the water server can be operated using battery power and water can be filled from the hot water tank or cold water tank, improving the convenience of the water server and increasing the flexibility of water filling.

[0020] (2) The water server can be powered by batteries not only during power outages caused by bad weather, but also when there is a power outage due to maintenance of the power system, or when the power supply is cut off because the water server is moved to a location without an electrical outlet.

[0021] (3) When powered by batteries, if there is no water filling operation for a certain continuous period of time, the battery power supply is canceled. This shortens the power supply time while prioritizing the water filling operation function of the water server, suppresses battery consumption, and extends battery life. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a water server according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2A is a diagram showing the control function of the control unit, and FIG. 2B is a diagram showing mode switching. [Diagram 3] 4 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of power supply control according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing another processing procedure of power supply control according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the relationship between elapsed time, a threshold value, and a water injection operation. [Figure 6]FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a water server according to a second embodiment as viewed from the front. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is an oblique view of the water server as seen from the rear. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a control system of a water server. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the functional parts of the water server. [Figure 10] FIG. 10A is a diagram showing a mechanism for supplying raw water, and FIG. 10B is a diagram showing a mechanism for supplying raw water to a hot water tank. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an operation panel unit. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of power supply control according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing button operations and operation patterns. [Figure 14] 13 is a flowchart showing switching of the cold water temperature. [Figure 15] 13 is a flowchart showing a pouring process. [Figure 16] 11A and 11B are diagrams showing display patterns in a normal mode and a power outage mode. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an AC detection unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a power supply unit according to a second embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a power supply unit and a solenoid valve driving unit according to a third embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a power supply unit according to a fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0023] First Embodiment Fig. 1 shows a water server 2 according to a first embodiment. The configuration shown in Fig. 1 is an example, and the present disclosure is not limited to such a configuration.

[0024] This water server 2 includes a power supply unit 4, and is capable of normal operation when supplied with AC power (hereinafter referred to as "normal mode"), when there is a power outage in the AC power supply (hereinafter simply referred to as "power outage"), and operation when powered by a battery 6 (hereinafter referred to as "power outage mode"). This power supply unit 4 is an example of a power supply device of the present disclosure. The normal mode includes all operations based on AC power supply, including hot water generation and pouring it, and cold water generation and pouring it. In contrast, the power outage mode includes operations based on battery power supply that at least allow pouring of cold water, etc., while minimizing consumption of the battery 6.

[0025] The power supply unit 4 can be powered from both a battery 6 and an AC source 8. For example, the battery 6 can be a series circuit of eight AA batteries, which produces an output voltage of 12 [V]. The AC source 8 can be, for example, a commercial AC power source of 100 [V].

[0026] The start button 10 is an example of a start switch for starting the device by battery power supply in the event of a power outage. The power supply unit 4 includes a DC stabilization unit 12, an AC detection unit 14, a battery power supply holding unit 16, and a battery power release unit 18.

[0027] During AC power supply, the DC stabilization unit 12 operates with AC power supply and generates a DC stabilized output. This DC stabilization unit 12 includes a full-wave rectification circuit, a smoothing circuit, a stabilization circuit, etc., and generates a DC stabilized output by full-wave rectification of the AC and smoothing and stabilization of the rectification. Therefore, during AC power supply, the power supply unit 4 forms a DC stabilized power supply with the DC stabilization unit 12, and this DC stabilized output is supplied to the control unit 20. At this time, the normal mode is entered.

[0028] The AC detection unit 14 detects whether or not power is being fed from the AC source 8, and this detection output is sent to the control unit 20. This AC detection output is used for controlling the power supply switching from the sleep state to the normal mode, disabling the start button 10 when AC power is being fed, and other controls.

[0029] After a power outage of the AC source 8, the battery power supply holding unit 16 starts up from a paused state with the start button 10 and holds the battery power supply. When this battery power supply is held, the power outage mode is entered. In response to this, the battery power supply release unit 18 releases the battery power supply upon receiving a battery power supply release signal Soff from the control unit 20. During a power outage, the power supply unit 4 and control unit 20 are in a paused state before start-up is started with the start button 10 and after battery power supply is released.

[0030] The control unit 20 includes the power supply unit 4 and is an example of a control device of the present disclosure. The control unit 20 is, for example, configured by a computer. During AC power supply, the control unit 20 receives DC output from the DC stabilization unit 12 and executes the normal mode. During a power outage of the AC source 8, the control unit 20 receives DC output from the power supply unit 4 by battery power supply from the start of activation of the start button 10 and executes the power outage mode. In this power failure mode, the control unit 20 monitors the elapsed time Mt from the start of activation of the activation button 10, and outputs the battery power supply release signal Soff when the elapsed time Mt reaches a threshold value Mth, for example, 60 seconds. In this case, if the water supply operation is in progress when the elapsed time Mt reaches the threshold value Mth, the water supply function of the water server 2 is given priority, so measurement of the elapsed time Mt is stopped or the elapsed time Mt is reset, and after the water supply operation is completed, the battery power supply release signal Soff is output to release the battery power supply.

[0031] After the power failure mode is released, if the battery 6 has the power supply capacity, the power failure mode can be repeatedly executed by operating the start button 10 again.

[0032] Thus, the water server 2 has a power failure pause unit 21 that pauses some of its operations. This power failure pause unit 21 is a means for reducing the load on the battery power supply in power failure mode. This power failure pause unit 21 includes the DC stabilization unit 12, the AC detection unit 14, and a large current load 22 such as a cooling device or a hot water heater. Therefore, in power failure mode, the power failure pause unit 21 and the control unit 20, excluding the power failure pause unit 21, enable water pouring, information presentation, and the like with the minimum necessary load including water pouring and information presentation, thereby suppressing consumption of the battery 6.

[0033] In this water server 2, the solenoid valve unit 24, the information presentation unit 25 and the operation unit 26 receive a stabilized DC output or a battery-powered output from the power supply unit 4, operate under the control of the control unit 20 and are capable of operation corresponding to the normal mode or the power outage mode. The solenoid valve unit 24 is an example of a water injection operation unit. Under the control of the control unit 20, the solenoid valve unit 24 can be opened to inject hot or cold water in the normal mode and opened to inject water in the power outage mode. The information presentation unit 25 can present information corresponding to the normal mode or the power outage mode. The operation unit 26 can be operated corresponding to the normal mode or the power outage mode.

[0034] <Control Function of Control Unit 20> 2A shows an example of the control function of the control unit 20. The control of the control unit 20 includes normal mode control 20-1, power outage determination 20-2, power outage mode start control 20-3, setting a threshold Mth for the elapsed time Mt 20-4, monitoring the elapsed time Mt 20-5, monitoring the water injection operation 20-6, power outage mode release control 20-7, and information presentation control 20-8.

[0035] Control 20-1 in normal mode: When power is being supplied from the AC source 8, the control unit 20 executes power supply control to supply power to the entire system of the water server 2. The control unit 20 acquires the AC detection output of the AC detection unit 14 and recognizes the power supply state from the AC source 8. When power is being supplied from the AC source 8, power is supplied to the DC stabilization unit 12, the control unit 20, and the large current load 22. At this time, the start button 10 and the battery power supply holding unit 16 are disabled, so the battery power supply release unit 18 maintains the battery power supply release state.

[0036] Power failure determination 20-2: The control unit 20 acquires detection output information from the AC detection unit 14 and determines a power failure of the AC source 8. When a power failure occurs, the power supply to the control unit 20 is cut off, and as a result, the disablement of the start button 10 and the battery power supply holding unit 16 is also released.

[0037] Power failure mode start control 20-3: When the AC power source 8 is powered down, the battery power holding unit 16 holds the battery power from the time the start button 10 is operated, and the system transitions to this power failure mode. As a result, the control unit 20 transitions to the power failure mode when the start button 10 is operated. In other words, based on the operation of the start button 10, the power supply unit 4 generates battery output through battery power supply, and the control unit 20 operates on battery power supply. At this time, the power failure pause unit 21 transitions to a pause state, and unlike the normal mode, consumption of the battery 6 is suppressed in the power failure mode.

[0038] Setting 20-4 of threshold Mth for elapsed time Mt: The control unit 20 measures the elapsed time Mt from the start of activation of the activation button 10. For this elapsed time Mt, a threshold Mth is set that corresponds to a certain period of time during which the water injection operation is not performed. Setting this threshold Mth includes setting the threshold Mth from the start of activation and setting the threshold Mth from the end of the water injection operation.

[0039] Monitoring 20-5 of elapsed time Mt: The control unit 20 monitors the elapsed time Mt, and monitors whether or not the elapsed time Mt reaches a threshold value Mth.

[0040] Monitoring of water injection operation 20-6: The control unit 20 acquires operation information of the solenoid valve unit 24 and monitors the water injection operation.

[0041] Power failure mode release control 20-7: When the AC source 8 is restored during the power failure mode, the control unit 20 executes power failure mode release control.

[0042] Information presentation control 20-8: In normal mode or power outage mode, the control unit 20 causes the information presentation unit 25 to present information related to the water injection operation.

[0043] <Mode switching> FIG. 2B shows an example of mode switching of the water server 2. When the AC source 8 is supplying power and the AC detector 14 detects AC, the controller 20 gives priority to the normal mode, and activation by the activation button 10 does not occur.

[0044] When the AC source 8 fails, the control unit 20 permits a transition from normal mode to power outage mode and accepts a startup operation using the start button 10. When the start button 10 is operated, the power supply unit 4 and control unit 20 transition from a sleep state to power outage mode. This power outage mode is the operating mode after startup and before the battery power supply release signal Soff is output, and is the battery power supply mode.

[0045] After the battery power supply is released by the battery power supply release signal Soff, the power supply unit 4 and the control unit 20 transition to the power failure mode release state before the start button 10 is operated.

[0046] When power is being supplied from AC source 8 or when power is restored from a power outage, based on AC detection by AC detector 14, control unit 20 maintains the battery power supply in a released state using the battery power supply release function of battery power supply release unit 18.

[0047] The control unit 20 monitors the water injection operation, and after the water injection operation is completed, even if the elapsed time Mt is within the threshold value Mth, outputs the battery power supply release signal Soff, and transitions to a power outage mode release state.

[0048] In the power supply control, for example, processes such as process procedure 1-1 (FIG. 3) and process procedure 1-2 (FIG. 4) can be executed to realize the above control function.

[0049] <Power supply control processing procedure 1-1> 3 shows an example of a power supply control process procedure 1-1. This power supply control is an example of a water supply method or a program thereof according to the present disclosure. S indicates a process, and the numbers attached to S indicate an example of the order of the processes, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0050] This power supply control includes processes such as an AC detection process (S101), an AC power supply control process (S102), a normal mode control process (S103), a power outage mode release process (S104), a startup process (S105), a power outage mode control process (S106), an elapsed time monitoring process (S107), and a water injection operation monitoring process (S108).

[0051] AC detection unit 14 detects whether AC power is being supplied (S101), and when AC power is being supplied (YES in S101), power supply control of water server 2 using AC power supply is executed (S102), and control in normal mode is performed (S103).

[0052] When the AC power source 8 is powered off (NO in S101), if the start button 10 is operated (YES in S105), this operation triggers battery power supply. If the start button 10 is not operated (NO in S105), the process returns to S101. In this case, the power outage mode release state is maintained.

[0053] When the start-up operation is performed using the start button 10, the device enters power outage mode (S106). The elapsed time Mt of battery power supply is monitored (S107). The water injection operation is monitored (S108). If the elapsed time Mt is within the threshold value Mth (YES in S107), the power outage mode (battery power supply) is maintained (S106).

[0054] If the elapsed time Mt of battery power supply is within the threshold value Mth and water supply operation is performed, the power outage mode (battery power supply) is maintained (S106) until the water supply operation is completed, even if the elapsed time Mt exceeds the threshold value Mth (NO in S107). Then, after the water supply operation is completed (YES in S108), the control unit 20 outputs the battery power supply release signal Soff, and the battery power supply is released.

[0055] <Power supply control processing procedure 1-2> 4 shows an example of a power supply control process procedure 1-2. This power supply control is an example of a water supply method or a program thereof of the present disclosure. S indicates a process, and the numbers attached to S indicate an example of the order of the processes, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0056] This power supply control includes processes such as an AC detection process (S111), an AC power supply control process (S112), a normal mode control process (S113), a power outage mode release process (S114), a startup process (S115), a power outage mode control process (S116), a water injection operation monitoring process (S117), a measurement process of the elapsed time Mt (S118), a monitoring process of the elapsed time Mt (S119), an initialization process of the elapsed time Mt (S120), and a monitoring process for the end of the water injection operation (S121).

[0057] AC detection unit 14 detects whether AC power is being supplied (S111), and when AC power is being supplied (YES in S111), power supply control of water server 2 using AC power supply is executed (S112), and control in normal mode is performed (S113).

[0058] When the AC power source 8 is powered down (NO in S111), if the start button 10 is operated (YES in S115), this operation triggers battery power supply. If the start button 10 is not operated (NO in S115), the process returns to S111.

[0059] When a start operation is performed using the start button 10 (YES in S115), the power outage mode is entered (S116), and a determination is made as to whether or not a water injection operation is being performed to monitor the water injection operation (S117). If a water injection operation is not being performed (YES in S117), the elapsed time Mt of battery power supply is measured (S118). The elapsed time Mt is monitored to determine whether or not the elapsed time Mt is within a threshold value Mth (S119). If the elapsed time Mt is within the threshold value Mth (YES in S119), the power outage mode (battery power supply) is maintained (S116).

[0060] If a water injection operation is being performed (NO in S117), measurement of the elapsed time Mt is stopped, and the measured elapsed time Mt is cleared (Mt=0) (S120). To monitor the end of the water injection operation, it is determined whether the water injection operation has been completed (S121). If the water injection operation has been completed (YES in S121), the power outage mode (battery power supply) is maintained (S116). If the water injection operation is continuing (NO in S121), monitoring of whether the water injection operation has been completed continues.

[0061] When the elapsed time Mt of battery power supply exceeds the threshold value Mth (NO in S119), battery power supply (power failure mode) is released (S114), and the process returns to S111. That is, the battery power supply release signal Soff is output and battery power supply is released.

[0062] <Relationship between elapsed time Mt, threshold Mth, and water injection operation> FIG. 5 shows the relationship between the elapsed time Mt, the threshold value Mth, and the water injection operation. As shown in A of FIG. 5, time t0 is, for example, the start time. The time from time t0 to time t2 is the threshold value Mth. As shown in B of FIG. 5, if water injection is started at time t1 before the elapsed time Mt of battery power supply reaches the threshold value Mth, the water injection operation is continued even if the elapsed time Mt reaches the threshold value Mth, as long as the water injection operation is not stopped. In this example, the water injection operation continues until time t3 when the threshold value Mth is exceeded. In other words, if water injection occurs before the elapsed time Mt reaches the threshold value Mth, the battery power supply release signal Soff is not output as long as this water injection continues. In this case, the threshold value Mth is substantially extended by the water injection operation, as shown by the dashed line.

[0063] As shown in Fig. 5C, time t10 is the start time. The time from time t10 to time t12 is the threshold value Mth. As shown in Fig. 5D, water injection starts at time t11 before the elapsed time Mt of battery power supply reaches the threshold value Mth, and the water injection operation continues until time t13.

[0064] In this case, the elapsed time Mt is cleared (Mt=0) at the start time t11 of the water injection operation, and the threshold value Mth is also released at this start time t11. In other words, the previous threshold value Mth should continue until time t12, but as a result of being released at time t11, the time of the threshold value Mth becomes shorter.

[0065] Then, when the water injection operation ends at time t13, this time t13 becomes the time point at which measurement of the new elapsed time Mt is restarted. At this time t13, the threshold value Mth from time t13 to time t14 is set as the new threshold value Mth. In other words, even if the previous threshold value Mth is released at time t11, a new threshold value Mth is set in preparation for the next water injection operation.

[0066] In this way, since the threshold value Mth is updated after the previous threshold value Mth is released, the waiting period for refilling water after filling water can be set automatically, and the need to operate the start button 10 again can be eliminated.

[0067] <Advantages of the First Embodiment> According to the first embodiment, any one of the following effects can be obtained. (1) In the event of a power outage, battery power supply can be started by operating start button 10, thereby starting up water server 2.

[0068] (2) During a power outage, the power outage pause unit 21 pauses, so that consumption of the battery 6 is reduced.

[0069] (3) The solenoid valve unit 24 can operate in the battery power supply mode, and water can be poured by operating the solenoid valve unit 24 through battery power supply.

[0070] (4) Water Server 2 can be used by being powered by batteries not only during power outages caused by bad weather, but also during power outages caused by maintenance of the power system, or when the power supply is cut off because Water Server 2 is moved to a location without an electrical outlet.

[0071] (5) When powered by battery, the elapsed time Mt from the start of startup is monitored and battery power is maintained for a fixed period of time, thereby suppressing consumption of the battery 6 and extending the battery life.

[0072] (6) When powered by a battery, if water injection is in progress when the elapsed time Mt from the start of startup exceeds the threshold value Mth, the power outage mode is maintained, so that the water injection can be continued until the water injection is completed.

[0073] (7) When the device is powered by battery, the control unit 20 monitors the elapsed time Mt during which no water injection operation is performed (no operation state), and if no water injection operation is performed for a threshold value Mth (a certain continuous period of time) set for this elapsed time Mt, the battery power supply is terminated, thereby preventing consumption of the battery 6 and extending the battery life (the usage time of the battery 6).

[0074] Second Embodiment Fig. 6 shows a front portion of a water server 2 according to a second embodiment. The configuration shown in Fig. 6 is an example, and the present disclosure is not limited to such a configuration.

[0075] The water server 2 includes, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped server housing 28 in which a water container mounting section 29, an operation panel section 30, a hot / cold water pouring cover section 32, and a water pouring receiver section 34 are provided.

[0076] A water inlet 36 used for pouring cold water or water, and a hot water inlet 38 used for pouring hot water or water, are provided on the hot water / cold water pouring cover part 32. A drain part 40 is provided on the water pouring receiver part 34.

[0077] <Rear side of Water Server 2> Fig. 7 shows the rear side of the water server 2. The configuration shown in Fig. 7 is an example, and the present disclosure is not limited to such a configuration. Battery boxes 44-1, 44-2 are mounted on an upper panel 42 at the rear of the server housing 28, a heat dissipation cover 46 is mounted below the upper panel 42, and a cooling device cover 48 is mounted below that. Each of the battery boxes 44-1, 44-2 stores four dry batteries.

[0078] <Water Server 2 Control System> Fig. 8 shows an example of a control system for the water server 2. The configuration shown in Fig. 8 is just an example, and the present disclosure is not limited to such a configuration. In Fig. 8, the same parts as in Fig. 1 are given the same reference numerals.

[0079] In this system, when power is being supplied from the AC source 8, the DC stabilized output of the DC stabilizer 12 is supplied to the control unit 20 via an insulating diode 50-1. In power outage mode, the output of the battery power supply holding unit 16 is supplied to the control unit 20 via an insulating diode 50-2. The insulating diodes 50-1, 50-2 electrically isolate the outputs and prevent interference between the outputs.

[0080] The control unit 20 is configured by a computer, and includes a processor 52. The processor 52 executes an OS (Operating System), a power supply control program, a function control program for the water server 2, and the like, which are stored in a storage unit 54.

[0081] The storage unit 54 is an example of a recording medium of the present disclosure, and includes storage elements such as a read-only memory (ROM) and a random-access memory (RAM). The ROM stores the OS, the control program, control information for the water server 2, and the like. The RAM constitutes a work area for information processing.

[0082] An input / output unit (I / O) 56 is used for control output and information input under the control of the processor 52. A timer 58 measures the elapsed time Mt from the depression of the start button 10 under the control of the processor 52, and this measurement information is taken from the I / O 56 to the processor 52.

[0083] The large current load 22 included in the power failure pause unit 21 includes a cooling device 60, a hot water heater 62, a thermal valve (not shown), etc. The cooling device 60 includes a drive unit 61, is driven by AC power supply, and is controlled by the control unit 20. The hot water heater 62 includes a switch unit 63 for switching power supply, generates heat by AC power supply, and the switch unit 63 is controlled by the control unit 20.

[0084] The solenoid valve section 24 includes, for example, a cold water solenoid valve 64 and a hot water solenoid valve 65. Each of the solenoid valves 64, 65 is driven by a solenoid valve driving section 66, to which a driving output is provided from the I / O 56.

[0085] The information presentation unit 25 includes, for example, a cold water lamp 68, a weak cold lamp 70, a hot water lamp 72, a high temperature lamp 74, an energy saving lamp 75, and a lock lamp 76. The lamps 68, 70, 72, 74, 75, and 76 are driven by a lamp driver 78, which receives a drive output from the I / O 56.

[0086] The operation unit 26 includes a cold water button 79, a hot water button 80, an energy saving button 82, and a lock / unlock button 84. Each of the buttons 79, 80, 82, and 84 is an example of a switch that is opened or closed by operation. Switch inputs from each of the buttons 79, 80, 82, and 84 are taken into the I / O 56 under the control of the processor 52.

[0087] The sensor unit 86 includes a cold water temperature sensor 87, a hot water temperature sensor 88, etc. The cold water temperature sensor 87 detects the temperature of cold water under the control of the processor 52, and the hot water temperature sensor 88 detects the temperature of hot water under the control of the processor 52. Each piece of detected information is input to the I / O 56 under the control of the processor 52.

[0088] <Functional parts of Water Server 2> Fig. 9 shows the functional parts of the water server 2. The configuration shown in Fig. 9 is an example, and the present disclosure is not limited to such a configuration. In Fig. 9, the same parts as those in Figs. 6, 7, and 8 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0089] This water server 2 is equipped with a server housing 28, on which a replaceable water container 100 is placed, raw water W is supplied from the water container 100, cold water CW is generated in a cold water tank 102, and hot water HW is generated in a hot water tank 104.

[0090] The cold water tank 102 is installed in the middle of the server housing 28, the hot water tank 104 is installed below the cold water tank 102, and the cooling device 60 is installed below the hot water tank 104. The cooling device 60 cools the cold water tank 102 and generates cold water CW from the raw water W.

[0091] The water supply nozzle portion 106 of the water container 100 is disposed above the cold water tank 102 through a top opening 108 of the server housing 28 .

[0092] The cold water tank 102 is equipped with a valve mechanism 110 that regulates the supply of raw water W from the water container 100. This valve mechanism 110 is equipped with an on-off valve 112 that opens and closes the water supply nozzle portion 106, and this on-off valve 112 is attached to the middle of an on-off arm portion 114, and a float portion 116 that receives buoyancy from the cold water CW in the cold water tank 102 is attached to the tip of this on-off arm portion 114.

[0093] An evaporator 118 of the cooling device 60 is installed in the cold water tank 102. This evaporator 118 circulates the refrigerant cooled by the cooling device 60, and cools the raw water W by heat exchange between the refrigerant and the raw water W, thereby generating cold water CW in the cold water tank 102. A cold water temperature sensor 87 is installed in this cold water tank 102, and a detection output of the cold water temperature sensor 87 is provided to the control unit 20, which acquires temperature information of the cold water CW.

[0094] A separation plate 120 that separates raw water W and cold water CW is installed in the cold water tank 102. This separation plate 120 has a recess 122 that receives the raw water W, and also has a water supply pipe 124 that extends from a central opening of this recess 122 into the hot water tank 104. The raw water W is introduced into the hot water tank 104 through the recess 122 of the separation plate 120 and the water supply pipe 124.

[0095] A hot water heater 62 is installed as a heating device in the hot water tank 104. This hot water heater 62 generates heat under the control of the control unit 20. The raw water W is heated by the heat generated by the hot water heater 62, and hot water HW is generated from the raw water W.

[0096] A hot water temperature sensor 88 is installed in this hot water tank 104. A detection output from the hot water temperature sensor 88 is provided to the control unit 20, which acquires temperature information about the hot water HW.

[0097] A bypass pipe 126 is connected between the top of the hot water tank 104 and the bottom of the cold water tank 102, and during cleaning, hot water HW from the hot water tank 104 can be circulated through this bypass pipe 126 to the cold water tank 102. A bypass valve 128 controlled by the control unit 20 is installed in this bypass pipe 126.

[0098] A water inlet pipe 130 is connected to the bottom of the cold water tank 102, and a hot water inlet pipe 132 is connected to the top of the hot water tank 104. A cold water solenoid valve 64 is installed on the water inlet pipe 130, and a hot water solenoid valve 65 is installed on the hot water inlet pipe 132. The cold water solenoid valve 64 can be opened by the cold water button 79, and the hot water solenoid valve 65 can be opened by the hot water button 80.

[0099] <Supply mechanism for raw water W from water container 100> 10A shows a supply state of raw water W. When the water container 100 is installed, the raw water W in the water container 100 flows into the cold water tank 102 under the force of gravity.

[0100] 10A, this raw water W pushes down the on-off valve 112 of the valve mechanism 110. The raw water W that passes through the on-off valve 112 falls into the recessed portion 122 of the separation plate 120 and flows into the cold water tank 102 from a plurality of water passage holes 136 opened around the water supply hole 134 of the water supply pipe 124, and a part of the raw water W flows from the water supply hole 134 through the water supply pipe 124 into the hot water tank 104.

[0101] 10B shows a mechanism for supplying raw water W to the hot water tank 104. When the water level in the cold water tank 102 reaches the separation plate 120 as shown in FIG. 10B, the water passage hole 136 is blocked by the raw water W. As a result, the raw water W is led to the hot water tank 104 through the water supply pipe 124 of the separation plate 120 at once.

[0102] When the hot water tank 104 is full, the water supply from the cold water tank 102 becomes dominant, and the water level in the cold water tank 102 rises. This rise in the water level causes the float portion 116 to receive buoyancy, causing the opening / closing valve 112 of the valve mechanism 110 to rise, and the opening / closing valve 112 closes the water supply nozzle portion 106, stopping the supply of raw water W.

[0103] As long as raw water W is supplied from the water container 100, the water level of the cold water tank 102 is maintained at the upper limit water level by receiving the supply of this raw water W.

[0104] <Operation panel section 30> Fig. 11 shows the front panel surface of the operation panel unit 30. In Fig. 11, the same parts as in Fig. 8 are given the same reference numerals.

[0105] The cold water lamp 68, weak cold lamp 70, hot water lamp 72, high temperature lamp 74, energy saving lamp 75 and lock lamp 76 are examples of the information presentation unit 25. The cold water lamp 68 lights up when cold water can be poured. The weak cold lamp 70 lights up when weak cold water can be poured. The hot water lamp 72 lights up when hot water can be poured. The high temperature lamp 74 lights up when hot water can be poured. The energy saving lamp 75 lights up in energy saving mode and goes out when the mode is released. The lock lamp 76 lights up when locked and goes out when the mode is released.

[0106] The cold water button 79, the hot water button 80, the energy saving button 82, and the lock / unlock button 84 are examples of the operation unit 26. The cold water button 79 can be pressed for a short time or for a long time, and is used to pour cold water in normal mode and pour water in power outage mode. The hot water button 80 can be pressed for a short time or for a long time, and is used to pour hot water in normal mode and pour water in power outage mode.

[0107] The energy saving button 82 is operated to start the energy saving mode in the normal mode. The lock / unlock button 84 can be pressed for a short time or for a long time, and is used to lock or unlock in the normal mode. A long press of the energy saving button 82 is not accepted in the power outage mode.

[0108] <Power supply control processing procedure> 12 shows the procedure for power supply control. The power supply control includes an AC detection step (S201), a power supply unit 4 control step (S202), a normal mode control step (S203), a battery power supply release signal Soff output step (S204), a battery power supply release step (S205), a start-up step (S206), a power outage mode control step (S207), a hot water button 80 press step (S208), a cold water button 79 press step (S209), and a measurement step of elapsed time Mt (S210). These processes include a process of monitoring the elapsed time Mt (S210), a process of monitoring the elapsed time Mt (S211), a process of initializing the elapsed time Mt (S212, S216), a process of opening the hot water solenoid valve 65 (S213), a process of releasing the hot water button 80 (S214), a process of closing the hot water solenoid valve 65 (S215), a process of opening the cold water solenoid valve 64 (S217), a process of releasing the cold water button 79 (S218), and a process of closing the cold water solenoid valve 64 (S219).

[0109] The AC detection unit 14 detects whether AC power is being fed (S201), and when AC power is being fed (YES in S201), the power supply unit 4 executes power feed control for the large current load 22 (FIG. 1) such as the DC stabilization unit 12, the control unit 20, the cooling device 60, and the hot water heater 62 (S202). In this power feed control, control in normal mode is performed (S203).

[0110] In this normal mode, the control unit 20 outputs a battery power supply release signal Soff (S204), and the battery power supply is controlled to be in a release state (S205). At this time, temperature control of the cold water temperature and the hot water temperature is executed, and the cold water temperature and the hot water temperature are optimized.

[0111] In this normal mode, when the cold water button 79 is pressed, the cold water solenoid valve 64 is operated to the open state, and cold water is poured from the water inlet 36. In the power outage mode, when the cold water button 79 is pressed, the cold water solenoid valve 64 is similarly operated to the open state, and water is poured from the water inlet 36. Also, when the hot water button 80 is pressed, the hot water solenoid valve 65 is operated to the open state, and hot water is poured from the hot water inlet 38. In the power outage mode, when the hot water button 80 is pressed, the hot water solenoid valve 65 is similarly operated to the open state, and water is poured from the hot water inlet 38.

[0112] When the AC power source 8 is powered down (NO in S201), if the start button 10 is operated (YES in S206), this operation triggers battery power supply. If the start button 10 is not operated (NO in S206), the process returns to S201.

[0113] When a start operation is performed using the start button 10 (YES in S206), power outage mode control is entered (S207), and the hot water button 80 and cold water button 79 are monitored for depression (S208, S209). If the hot water button 80 or cold water button 79 is not pressed (NO in S208, NO in S209), the elapsed time Mt is measured (S210). If the elapsed time Mt is within the threshold value Mth (YES in S211), power outage mode control is maintained (S207). If the elapsed time Mt exceeds the threshold value Mth (NO in S211), the process proceeds to S204.

[0114] If the hot water button 80 is operated to turn ON while measuring the elapsed time Mt (YES in S208), measurement of the elapsed time Mt is stopped, the elapsed time Mt is cleared (Mt=0) (S212), and the hot water solenoid valve 65 is opened under the control of the control unit 20 (S213). This open state is maintained as long as the hot water button 80 is pressed, and in power outage mode, water stored in the hot water tank 104 is poured from the hot water inlet 38. Then, if the hot water button 80 is turned OFF (YES in S214), the hot water solenoid valve 65 is closed under the control of the control unit 20 (S215). At this time, pouring of hot water from the hot water inlet 38 is stopped.

[0115] If the cold water button 79 is operated to turn ON while the elapsed time Mt is being measured (YES in S209), measurement of the elapsed time Mt is stopped, the elapsed time Mt is cleared (Mt=0) (S216), and the cold water solenoid valve 64 is opened under the control of the control unit 20 (S217). This open state is maintained as long as the cold water button 79 is pressed, and in the power outage mode, water stored in the cold water tank 102 is poured through the water inlet 36. Then, if the cold water button 79 is turned OFF (YES in S218), the cold water solenoid valve 64 is closed under the control of the control unit 20 (S219). At this time, the pouring of water through the water inlet 36 is stopped.

[0116] Therefore, the control unit 20 measures the elapsed time Mt from the start of startup, and sets a threshold value Mth that represents a continuous certain time for this elapsed time Mt. If there is no water injection operation within this threshold value Mth, it outputs a battery power supply release signal Soff after the elapsed time Mt reaches the threshold value Mth. If a water injection operation is in progress at the time the elapsed time Mt reaches the threshold value Mth, it outputs a battery power supply release signal Soff to the power supply unit 4 after the water injection operation is completed.

[0117] In addition, the control unit 20 measures the elapsed time Mt from the end of the water injection operation, and sets a threshold value Mth representing a continuous certain time for this elapsed time Mt. If there is no water injection operation within this threshold value Mth, it outputs a battery power supply release signal Soff after the elapsed time Mt reaches the threshold value Mth. If a water injection operation is in progress at the time the elapsed time Mt reaches the threshold value Mth, it outputs a battery power supply release signal Soff to the power supply unit 4 after the water injection operation is completed.

[0118] <Button operations and operation patterns> Figure 13 shows a list of button operations and operation patterns. The button operations include the lock / unlock button 84, cold water button 79, hot water button 80, energy saving button 82, as well as single operations such as plugging in a power source, and combination operations. Operation patterns include pouring cold water, switching the cold water temperature, pouring hot water, switching the hot water temperature, unlocking / locking, draining, etc., any of which can be selected.

[0119] Operation A is a sequence of a short press of the lock / release button 84 and a continuous press of the cold water button 79. A "short press" refers to a short press, while a "continuous press" refers to a continuous press, and this press time can be any length of time required to fill the desired amount of water. After releasing the lock by a short press of the lock / release button 84, the cold water button 79 is pressed continuously for any length of time. In this operation A, cold water can be poured in normal mode. In power outage mode, water can be poured, but it is not possible to pour water if the cold water temperature is above a threshold temperature, for example 40°C.

[0120] Operation B is an operation for switching the cold water temperature by pressing and holding the cold water button 79. "Long press" refers to the pressing time required for switching. Switching the cold water temperature is switching between cold water temperature and weak cold water temperature.

[0121] In this operation B, as shown in Fig. 14, it is determined whether the power outage mode is selected (S301), and if the power outage mode is selected (YES in S301), this process ends and the change in cold water temperature is not accepted. If the normal mode is selected (NO in S301), it is determined whether the cold water button 79 has been pressed and held down (S302). If the cold water button 79 has been pressed and held down (YES in S302), the cold water temperature can be changed (S303). If the button has not been pressed and held down (NO in S302), the change in cold water temperature is not accepted.

[0122] Operation C is a sequence of a short press of the lock / release button 84 and a continuous press of the hot water button 80. After releasing the lock by a short press of the lock / release button 84, the hot water button 80 is continuously pressed for any desired period of time. With this operation C, hot water can be poured in normal mode, and cold water can be poured in power outage mode.

[0123] In this operation C, as shown in FIG. 15, in the power failure mode, it is determined whether the lock / release button 84 has been pressed briefly (S401), and if the lock / release button 84 has been pressed briefly (YES in S401), it is determined whether the hot water button 80 is ON (S402). If the hot water button 80 is ON (YES in S402), the hot water solenoid valve 65 is opened under the control of the control unit 20 (S403). This allows water to be poured from the hot water tank 104. This open state is monitored by the control unit 20, and it is determined whether the hot water button 80 is OFF (S404). If the hot water button 80 is OFF (NO in S402), the hot water solenoid valve 65 is closed, and water pouring is stopped.

[0124] Operation D is an operation for switching the hot water temperature by pressing and holding the hot water button 80. This operation is executed in normal mode and is not accepted in power outage mode.

[0125] Operation E is an operation for switching ON the hot water heater 62 by pressing and holding the hot water button 80. This operation is executed in normal mode and is not accepted in power outage mode.

[0126] Operation F and operation G are switching between unlocking and locking by shortly pressing the lock / unlock button 84. This operation is possible in both normal mode and power outage mode.

[0127] Operation H and operation I are switching between child lock and child lock release by pressing and holding the lock / release button 84. This operation is possible in both normal mode and power outage mode.

[0128] Operation J and operation K are switching between energy saving operation and cancellation of energy saving operation by short pressing of the energy saving button 82. This operation is possible in normal mode, but is not accepted in power outage mode.

[0129] Operation L and operation M are switching between setting the energy saving repeat mode and canceling the energy saving mode by pressing and holding the energy saving button 82. This operation is possible in normal mode, but is not accepted in power outage mode.

[0130] Operation N is an operation to start high-temperature circulation by simultaneously pressing and holding the cold water button 79 and the hot water button 80. This operation is possible in normal mode, but is not accepted in power outage mode.

[0131] Operation O and operation P are switching between automatic child lock and automatic child lock release by simultaneously pressing and holding the lock / release button 84 and the cold water button 79. This operation is possible in both normal mode and power outage mode.

[0132] Operation Q is an operation to change the unlocking mode by plugging in the power while pressing the lock / unlock button 84. The unlocking mode changes from a short press to a long press. This operation is possible in normal mode, but is not accepted in power outage mode.

[0133] Operation R is an operation for draining water by simultaneously pressing and holding the lock / unlock button 84 and the energy saving button 82. This operation is possible in normal mode, but is not accepted in power outage mode.

[0134] <Display patterns in normal mode and power outage mode> 16A shows the display patterns for the normal mode and the power failure mode. The cold water lamp 68, the weak cool lamp 70, the hot water lamp 72, the high temperature lamp 74, the energy saving lamp 75, the lock lamp 76, etc. are used to display information about the normal mode or the power failure mode.

[0135] In the normal mode, the cold water lamp 68 lights up to indicate cold water, the weak cold lamp 70 lights up to indicate weak cold, the hot water lamp 72 lights up to indicate hot water, the high temperature lamp 74 lights up to indicate high temperature, and the energy saving lamp 75 lights up to indicate energy saving. Also, the lock lamp 76 lights up to indicate unlocked or locked.

[0136] In the power failure mode, the cold water lamp 68, the hot water lamp 72 and the lock lamp 76 are used. The cold water lamp 68 and the hot water lamp 72 are controlled by the control unit 20 to select the lighting mode, and when water can be poured, they display an indication that water is pourable.

[0137] In the power outage mode, the cold water lamp 68 indicates that water can be poured by lighting up in green when the water is at an appropriate temperature for cold water, and lighting up in orange when the water is not at the appropriate temperature, as shown in Fig. 16B. The hot water lamp 72 indicates that water can be poured by flashing green, which is different from the initial state, as shown in Fig. 16C. The lock lamp 76 is also used in the power outage mode, and under the control of the control unit 20, it presents a locked or unlocked indication by, for example, turning off when locked, flashing green when unlocked, and lighting up in green when child locked, as shown in Fig. 16D.

[0138] <Water injection control and water injection display control in power outage mode> The water pouring control and the water pouring display control include a temperature detection step, an information presentation step, a water pouring control step, etc. These functions are executed via information processing by the control unit 20.

[0139] In the temperature detection step, the control unit 20 acquires temperature information from the cold water temperature sensor 87 that detects the temperature of the water stored in the cold water tank 102 .

[0140] In the information presenting step, the information presenting unit 25 presents at least a cold water display or a pourable water display under the control of the control unit 20.

[0141] In the water injection control process, if the detected temperature of the stored water is below a predetermined temperature, a cold water display is displayed on the information presentation unit 25 and the control unit 20 allows water injection, and if the stored water exceeds the predetermined temperature, the cold water display is canceled and water injection is prohibited.

[0142] Furthermore, in the power outage mode, the control unit 20 may control the supply of power to the hot water heater 62 to stop, and the information presentation unit 25 may present a display indicating that water is available instead of the hot water display.

[0143] <Advantages of the Second Embodiment> According to the second embodiment, any one of the following effects can be obtained. (1) During a power outage, water stored in the cold water tank 102 can be poured in by repeatedly pressing the cold water button 79, and water stored in the hot water tank 104 can be poured in by repeatedly pressing the hot water button 80. If there is residual water immediately after the power outage, cold water or hot water can be poured in.

[0144] (2) As time passes after the power outage, the temperature of the water stored in the cold water tank 102 will become equal to the temperature of the raw water in the water container 100 according to demand, and the temperature of the water stored in the hot water tank 104 will also become equal. However, by prohibiting water from being poured from the hot water tank 104, it is possible to prevent the mixing of room temperature water and hot water.

[0145] (3) In the power outage mode, the display during water pouring is made different from that in the normal mode, and information showing the water pouring status during the power outage is displayed, thereby increasing the convenience of the water server 2.

[0146] (4) Since water can be dispensed using battery output and corresponding information can be displayed, the water server2 can be used conveniently not only in emergency situations such as disasters but also in everyday life. EXAMPLES

[0147] Fig. 17 shows an example of the AC detection unit 14 according to the embodiment 1. In Fig. 17, the same parts as those in Figs. 1 and 8 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0148] The AC detection unit 14 detects whether power is being supplied or there is a power outage from the periodic voltage change of the AC voltage of the AC source 8. The full-wave rectification unit 138 included in the AC detection unit 14 outputs a full-wave rectified voltage by full-wave rectification of the AC from the AC source 8. The voltage level of this full-wave rectified voltage changes every half cycle.

[0149] This full-wave rectified voltage is adjusted by resistors 140 and 142, and a current flows through a light-emitting element 146 to emit light. This light emission changes depending on the voltage level of the full-wave rectified voltage. In other words, light is emitted periodically.

[0150] The light receiving element 148 of the photocoupler 144 receives the intermittent light from the light emitting element 146 and repeatedly turns on and off. Since the voltage applied from the signal power supply 150 is applied to the collector of the light receiving element 148 via a resistor 152, a pulse signal with the applied voltage of the signal power supply 150 as its peak is obtained. This pulse signal is the AC detection signal, and is applied to the control unit 20 via a resistor 154. In other words, when this AC detection signal is released, it indicates a power outage of the AC source 8.

[0151] <Effects of Example 1> According to the first embodiment, any one of the following effects can be obtained. (1) With such an AC detection unit 14, it is possible to instantly detect whether the AC source 8 is supplying power or whether a power outage has occurred.

[0152] (2) By using this AC detection signal, when the power supply is restored after a power outage, the control unit 20 generates a battery power supply release signal Soff to release the battery power supply and control the power supply unit 4 to the normal mode. EXAMPLES

[0153] Fig. 18 shows an example of a power supply unit 4 according to Example 2. In Fig. 18, the same parts as those in Figs. 1 and 8 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0154] The power supply unit 4 includes a battery power supply holding unit 16 and a battery power supply release unit 18. The battery power supply holding unit 16 holds the battery power supply in response to the start button 10, and the battery power supply release unit 18 releases the battery power in response to a battery power supply release signal Soff from the control unit 20.

[0155] <Maintaining battery power> The battery power supply holding unit 16 is equipped with a switch circuit consisting of a self-holding relay 156 and transistors 158 and 160. The diode 165 is an example of a counter electromotive force absorbing element. When the start button 10 is pressed and closed during a power outage of the AC source 8, the battery voltage from the battery 6 is applied to the relay coil 162 of the relay 156, and the contact 164 of the relay 156 is closed, so that the transistors 158 and 160 are turned ON. In other words, the power outage mode begins.

[0156] The ON state of transistors 158, 160 magnetizes relay coil 162. Even if contact 164 is closed and start button 10 transitions to OFF, battery voltage is applied from battery 6 to relay coil 162 through closed contact 164, and magnetization of relay coil 162 is maintained. Therefore, battery power supply is maintained, and battery voltage instead of DC stabilized voltage is applied to control unit 20 through insulating diode 50-2.

[0157] <Battery power supply release> Battery power supply release unit 18 includes a switch circuit made up of transistor 166. Transistor 166 is maintained in the OFF state before battery power supply release signal Soff is output from control unit 20. In other words, when battery power supply release signal Soff is output, transistor 166 turns ON, and a conductive current of transistor 166 flows through resistor 168. As a result, the base of transistor 158 goes to a low potential, and both transistors 158 and 160 turn OFF, so that the battery power supply hold by battery power supply holding unit 16 is released.

[0158] <Effects of Example 2> According to the second embodiment, any one of the following effects can be obtained. (1) Battery power can be maintained and released with low power consumption.

[0159] (2) The battery power supply release unit 18 includes the transistor 166 and can utilize the transistors 158 and 160 of the battery power supply hold unit 16, so that the circuit configuration can be simplified. EXAMPLES

[0160] Fig. 19 shows an example of a power supply unit 4 and a solenoid valve driving unit 66 according to Example 3. In Fig. 19, the same parts as those in Figs. 1 and 8 are given the same reference numerals.

[0161] In the power failure mode, a battery output based on the battery power supply holding of the battery power supply holding unit 16 is applied from the power supply unit 4 to the solenoid valve driving unit 66. The solenoid valve driving unit 66 is provided with a transistor solenoid valve driving circuit 170 for driving the cold water solenoid valve 64, and a transistor solenoid valve driving circuit 172 for driving the hot water solenoid valve 65.

[0162] The transistor solenoid valve drive circuits 170, 172, like the control unit 20, can be driven by battery output from the power supply unit 4, and similarly, the cold water solenoid valve 64 and the hot water solenoid valve 65 can also be driven by the same battery output.

[0163] <Effects of Example 3> According to the third embodiment, any one of the following effects can be obtained. (1) In power failure mode, the transistor solenoid valve drive circuits 170, 172, the cold water solenoid valve 64, and the hot water solenoid valve 65 can be driven by the battery output due to battery power supply.

[0164] (2) Since it can be driven by battery 6, power consumption in power outage mode can be reduced. EXAMPLES

[0165] Fig. 20 shows the power supply unit 4 according to Example 4. In the above-described embodiment and example, the battery power supply is released by the battery power supply release signal Soff from the control unit 20 by the battery power supply release unit 18, but in addition, a battery power supply release unit 174 for manually releasing the battery power supply may be provided.

[0166] This battery power supply release unit 174 includes a normally closed contact 176, which is disposed in series with the contact 164. In the power outage mode, when the contact 164 is closed, that is, in the state where the battery power supply is maintained, the battery power supply can be similarly released by manually turning the normally closed contact 176 to the OFF state.

[0167] <Effects of Example 4> According to the fourth embodiment, any one of the following effects can be obtained. (1) The battery power supply can be released manually at any time.

[0168] (2) A highly convenient water server 2 can be constructed that can release the battery power supply in an emergency, etc.

[0169] <Other embodiments> (1) In the above embodiment, the operation patterns are shown in A to D of Fig. 5, but the present disclosure is not limited to these operation patterns. For example, the measurement of the elapsed time Mt may be terminated at the end of the water injection operation, the threshold value Mth may be released at that time, and a new threshold value Mth may be set at this time, and the measurement of the elapsed time Mt without the water injection operation may be started. With this configuration, it is possible to avoid the consumption of the battery 6 due to the continuation of the elapsed time Mt without the water injection operation, and also to avoid the hassle of repeatedly operating the start button 10.

[0170] (2) In the above embodiment, battery 6 realizes 12 [V] by a series circuit of eight AA batteries, but 12 [V] may also be realized by a series-parallel circuit of more than eight batteries. Also, the battery voltage is not limited to 12 [V].

[0171] (3) Battery 6 may be a rechargeable storage battery, and power supply unit 4 may be provided with a charging circuit that charges the storage battery when AC power is supplied.

[0172] As described above, the most preferred embodiment of the present disclosure has been described. The present disclosure is not limited to the above description. Various modifications and changes are possible for those skilled in the art based on the gist of the invention described in the claims or disclosed in the description for carrying out the invention. It goes without saying that such modifications and changes are included in the scope of the present disclosure. [Industrial Applicability]

[0173] The present disclosure makes it possible to provide a highly convenient water server that can dispense cold or hot water in normal mode when powered by AC, as well as during a power outage or in power outage mode when powered by a battery, making it possible to effectively utilize the server in times of disasters. [Explanation of symbols]

[0174] 2. Water Server 4 Power supply section 6 batteries 8 AC source 10 Start button 12 DC stabilization section 14 AC detection section 16 Battery power supply holding section 18 Battery power supply release section 20 Control section 21 Shutdown section during power outage 22 Large current load 24 Solenoid valve section 25 Information presentation section 26 Control section 28 Server Chassis 29 Water container placement section 30 Operation panel section 32 Hot / cold water injection cover 34 Water receiving part 36 Water inlet 38 Pouring spout 40 Drainage section 42 Top Panel 44-1, 44-2 Battery box 46 Heat sink cover 48 Cooling unit cover 50-1, 50-2 isolation diode 52 processors 54 Memory section 56 I / O 58 Timer 60 Cooling device 61 Drive unit 62 Hot water heater 63 Switch section 64 Cold water solenoid valve 65 Hot water solenoid valve 66 Solenoid valve drive unit 68 Cold Water Lamp 70 Weak Cool Lamp 72 Hot Water Lamp 74 Hot Lamp 75 Energy saving lamp 76 Rock Lamp 78 Lamp driver 79 Cold water button 80 Hot water button 82 Energy saving button 84 Lock / unlock button 86 Sensor section 87 Cold water temperature sensor 88 Hot water temperature sensor 90 Power supply control section 92 Power failure mode control section 94 Chilled water control section 96 Hot water control unit 98 Information presentation control unit 100 water containers 102 Cold Water Tank 104 Hot Water Tank 106 Water supply nozzle part 108 Top opening 110 Valve mechanism 112 On-off valve 114 Opening and closing arm part 116 Float section 118 Evaporator 120 Separation Plate 122 Recess 124 Water supply pipe 126 Bypass Pipe 128 Bypass valve 130 Water injection pipe 132 Pouring pipe 134 Water supply hole 136 Water Vent 138 Full wave rectifier 140, 142 Resistance 144 Photocoupler 146 Light-emitting element 148 Photodetector 150 Signal power supply 152, 154 Resistor 156 Relay 158, 160 Transistors 162 Relay coil 164 Contacts 165 Diode 166 Transistor 168 Resistance 170, 172 Transistor solenoid valve drive circuit 174 Battery power supply release section 176 Normally closed contact

Claims

1. A water server that operates on AC power or battery power, A water injection operation unit that can be operated by the battery when the AC power supply is interrupted; a start switch for starting the battery power supply when the AC power supply is interrupted; a control unit that starts the battery power supply to the water injection unit in response to operation of the start switch when the AC power supply is interrupted, and cancels the battery power supply to the water injection unit a certain time after the start of the battery power supply, or, if the water injection unit performs a water injection operation before the certain time has elapsed, cancels the battery power supply to the water injection unit after the water injection operation is completed; Water servers including.

2. 2. The water server of claim 1, further comprising an AC detection unit that detects the supply of power from the AC power source, and the control unit permits operation of the start switch when the AC power source is interrupted, and when the start switch is operated, causes the water injection operation unit to start the battery power supply.

3. The water server of claim 2, wherein the control unit maintains the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit when the AC power supply is interrupted and the continuous elapsed time from the transition to power outage mode by operating the start switch is within a threshold value, and when a water injection operation is performed within the threshold value, the control unit cancels the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit after the water injection operation is completed.

4. The water server according to claim 1 , further comprising, in addition to the water pouring operation unit and the control unit, an information presentation unit that presents at least information, which is operated by the battery power supply.

5. A water supply method for a water server that operates on AC power supply or battery power supply, comprising: When an AC power supply is interrupted, water is injected by the water injection unit that is operable by the battery power supply. When the AC power supply is interrupted, starting the battery power supply using a start switch; When the AC power supply is interrupted, the control unit starts the battery power supply to the water injection unit in response to the operation of the start switch, and cancels the battery power supply to the water injection unit a certain time after the start of the battery power supply, or when the water injection unit performs a water injection operation before the certain time has elapsed, cancels the battery power supply to the water injection unit after the water injection operation is completed; A method for supplying water to a water server, including:

6. A program to be executed by a computer installed in a water server that operates on AC power or battery power, A function of maintaining the water injection operation unit operable by the battery power supply when the AC power supply is interrupted; a function of starting the battery power supply by a start switch when the AC power supply is interrupted; a function of starting the battery power supply to the water injection unit in response to operation of the start switch when the AC power supply is interrupted, and canceling the battery power supply to the water injection unit a certain time after the start of the battery power supply, or canceling the battery power supply to the water injection unit after the water injection operation is completed when the water injection operation of the water injection unit is performed before the certain time has elapsed; A program for causing the computer to execute the above.

7. A recording medium storing the program according to claim 6.

8. A control device for a water server having a water injection unit that can be operated by battery power when an AC power supply is interrupted, A control device for a water server including a control unit that, when the AC power supply is interrupted, starts the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit in response to operation of a start switch that starts the battery power supply, and cancels the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit a fixed time after the start of the battery power supply, or, if the water injection operation of the water injection operation unit occurs before the fixed time has elapsed, cancels the battery power supply to the water injection operation unit after the water injection operation is completed.

9. The control device for a water server according to claim 8, further comprising an AC detection unit that detects the supply of power from the AC power source, and the control unit permits operation of the start switch upon a power outage of the AC power source, and causes the water injection operating unit to start the battery power supply upon operation of the start switch.

10. The control device for a water server according to claim 8, further comprising, in addition to the water pouring operation unit and the control unit, which are powered by the battery, an information presentation unit that presents at least information.

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