Device

Abstract

To provide a technology capable of preventing liquid flowing through a liquid passage from flowing toward an unintended place.SOLUTION: A device comprises a container open to the atmosphere, a liquid passage through which liquid flows, an air introduction unit that introduces air into the liquid passage, and a micro-bubble generation unit that is provided in the liquid passage and uses the air introduced into the liquid passage to generate micro-bubbles in the liquid flowing through the liquid passage. The air introduction unit includes an intake port that opens into the interior of the container, and an air introduction path that connects between the interior of the liquid passage and the intake port.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to equipment.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an apparatus including a liquid passage through which a liquid flows, an air introduction portion that introduces air into the liquid passage, and a fine bubble generation portion that is provided in the liquid passage and generates fine bubbles in the liquid flowing through the liquid passage by using the air introduced into the liquid passage. The air introduction portion includes an intake port that is open to the atmosphere and an air introduction passage that connects between the inside of the liquid passage and the intake port.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The apparatus of Patent Document 1 is configured to introduce air from the intake port into the liquid passage through the air introduction passage. However, if the liquid flowing through the liquid passage flows into the air introduction passage and flows out of the outside of the air introduction passage through the intake port, the liquid may flow to an unintended location (for example, a location where electrical wiring is provided). This specification provides a technology capable of suppressing the liquid flowing through the liquid passage from flowing to an unintended location.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] In a first aspect of the present technology, the device includes a container open to the atmosphere, a liquid passage through which a liquid flows inside, an air introduction section that introduces air into the liquid passage, and a fine bubble generation section that is provided in the liquid passage and generates fine bubbles in the liquid flowing through the liquid passage by using the air introduced into the liquid passage. The air introduction section includes an intake port that opens inside the container and an air introduction passage that connects between the inside of the liquid passage and the intake port.

[0006] According to the above configuration, the air inside the container can be introduced into the liquid passage from the intake port through the air introduction passage. Further, according to the above configuration, even if the liquid flowing through the liquid passage flows into the air introduction passage and flows out of the outside of the air introduction passage through the intake port, the liquid flows back into the container. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the liquid flowing through the liquid passage from flowing to an unintended location.

[0007] In a second aspect of the present technology, in the above first aspect, the device may further include a heating section that heats a heat medium, a heating circuit that circulates the heat medium heated by the heating section to a heating device that performs heating by heat radiation from the heat medium, a heating pump that pumps the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit, and a cistern provided in the heating circuit. The container may include the cistern.

[0008] According to the above configuration, the air inside the cistern can be introduced into the liquid passage from the intake port through the air introduction passage. Further, according to the above configuration, even if the liquid flowing through the liquid passage flows into the air introduction passage and flows out of the outside of the air introduction passage through the intake port, the liquid flows back into the cistern. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the liquid flowing through the liquid passage from flowing to an unintended location.

[0009] In a third aspect of the present technology, in the above first aspect, the device may further include a combustor, a latent heat heat exchanger that recovers the latent heat of the combustion gas generated by the combustor and heats a heat medium, and a neutralizer that neutralizes the drain generated in the latent heat heat exchanger. The container may include the neutralizer.

[0010] According to the above configuration, the air inside the neutralizer can be introduced from the air inlet through the air introduction passage into the liquid passage. Further, according to the above configuration, even if the liquid flowing through the liquid passage flows into the air introduction passage and flows out of the outside of the air introduction passage through the air inlet, the liquid will flow into the neutralizer. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the liquid flowing through the liquid passage from flowing to an unintended location.

[0011] In the fourth aspect of the present technology, in the above first aspect, the device may further include a washing tub for accommodating tableware, a water supply passage through which water flows from a water supply source toward the washing tub, a washing nozzle provided inside the washing tub, a washing passage provided inside the washing tub and connected to the washing nozzle, a washing pump for pumping the water inside the washing tub to the washing nozzle through the washing passage, and a drainage passage through which the water discharged from the washing tub flows. The liquid passage may be the water supply passage. The container may include the washing tub.

[0012] According to the above configuration, the air inside the washing tub can be introduced from the air inlet through the air introduction passage into the water supply passage. Further, according to the above configuration, even if the water flowing through the water supply passage flows into the air introduction passage and flows out of the outside of the air introduction passage through the air inlet, the water will flow into the washing tub. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the water flowing through the water supply passage from flowing to an unintended location.

[0013] In the fifth aspect of the present technology, the device includes a drainage passage open to the atmosphere, a liquid passage through which a liquid flows inside, an air introduction part for introducing air into the liquid passage, and a fine bubble generation part provided in the liquid passage for generating fine bubbles in the liquid flowing through the liquid passage by using the air introduced into the liquid passage. The air introduction part includes an air inlet opening inside the drainage passage and an air introduction passage connecting between the inside of the liquid passage and the air inlet.

[0014] According to the above configuration, air inside the drain passage can be introduced into the liquid passage from the air inlet through the air introduction passage. Further, according to the above configuration, even if the liquid flowing through the liquid passage flows into the air introduction passage and flows out of the air introduction passage through the air inlet, the liquid will flow into the drain passage. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the liquid flowing through the liquid passage from flowing to an unintended location.

[0015] In a sixth aspect of the present technology, in the fifth aspect described above, the device further includes a heating unit that heats a heat medium, a heating circuit that circulates the heat medium heated by the heating unit to a heating device that performs heating by heat dissipation from the heat medium, a heating pump that pumps the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit, a cistern provided in the heating circuit, and a first overflow passage having one end connected to the first overflow port of the cistern and the other end connected to a predetermined drainage location. The drain passage may include the first overflow passage.

[0016] According to the above configuration, air inside the first overflow passage can be introduced into the liquid passage from the air inlet through the air introduction passage. Further, according to the above configuration, even if the liquid flowing through the liquid passage flows into the air introduction passage and flows out of the air introduction passage through the air inlet, the liquid will flow to a predetermined drainage location through the first overflow passage. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the liquid flowing through the liquid passage from flowing to an unintended location.

[0017] In a seventh aspect of the present technology, in the fifth aspect described above, the device further includes a combustor, a latent heat heat exchanger that recovers the latent heat of the combustion gas generated by the combustor to heat a heat medium, a neutralizer that neutralizes the drain generated in the latent heat heat exchanger, and a second overflow passage having one end connected to the second overflow port of the neutralizer and the other end connected to a predetermined drainage location. The drain passage may include the second overflow passage.

[0018] According to the above configuration, the air inside the second overflow passage can be introduced into the liquid passage from the intake port through the air introduction passage. Further, according to the above configuration, even if the liquid flowing through the liquid passage flows into the air introduction passage and flows out to the outside of the air introduction passage through the intake port, the liquid will flow to a predetermined drainage location through the second overflow passage. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the liquid flowing through the liquid passage from flowing to an unintended location.

[0019] In the eighth aspect of the present technology, in the above fifth aspect, the device further includes a washing tub for accommodating tableware, a water supply passage through which water flows from a water supply source toward the washing tub, a washing nozzle provided inside the washing tub, a washing passage provided inside the washing tub and connected to the washing nozzle, a washing pump for pumping the water inside the washing tub to the washing nozzle through the washing passage, and a drainage passage through which the water discharged from the washing tub flows. The liquid passage may be at least one of the water supply passage and the washing passage. The drainage passage may include the drainage passage.

[0020] According to the above configuration, the air inside the drainage passage can be introduced into at least one of the water supply passage and the washing passage from the intake port through the air introduction passage. Further, according to the above configuration, even if the water flowing through at least one of the water supply passage and the washing passage flows into the air introduction passage and flows out to the outside of the air introduction passage through the intake port, the water will flow inside the drainage passage. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the water flowing through at least one of the water supply passage and the washing passage from flowing to an unintended location.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0022] (Example 1: Heating Appliance 2) The heating appliance 2 shown in FIG. 1 heats water supplied from a water supply source (not shown) such as a water supply pipe, and supplies the heated water to a faucet (not shown) installed in a kitchen or the like, or a bathtub 4 installed in a bathroom up to a desired temperature. Further, the heating appliance 2 can reheat the hot water stored in the bathtub 4. Further, the heating appliance 2 heats a heat medium (in this example, water), and supplies the heated heat medium to the low-temperature heating terminal 6 and / or the high-temperature heating terminal 8, so that heating by the low-temperature heating terminal 6 and / or the high-temperature heating terminal 8 can also be performed.

[0023] The heating appliance 2 includes a controller 10 including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, etc. Various operation programs are stored in the ROM. In the RAM, various signals input to the controller 10 and various data generated in the process of the CPU executing processing are temporarily stored. The controller 10 controls each component of the heating appliance 2 by the CPU executing processing based on the information stored in the ROM and the RAM. Further, the controller 10 can communicate bidirectionally with a remote controller 12 installed in a kitchen or a bathroom. The remote controller 12 presents various information of the heating appliance 2 to the user and receives various operations from the user for the heating appliance 2.

[0024] The heat machine 2 further includes a first heat source machine 14, a second heat source machine 16, a combustion chamber 18, and a combustion fan 20. The first heat source machine 14 is a heat source machine used for supplying hot water to a calender (not shown) or pouring hot water into the bathtub 4. The second heat source machine 16 is a heat source machine used for reheating or heating the bathtub 4. The interior of the combustion chamber 18 is partitioned by a partition wall 22 into a first combustion chamber 24 and a second combustion chamber 26. The first heat source machine 14 is housed in the first combustion chamber 24, and the second heat source machine 16 is housed in the second combustion chamber 26. Air is supplied into the combustion chamber 18 by the combustion fan 20. An exhaust port 28 is formed in the combustion chamber 18. The combustion gas from the first heat source machine 14 and the second heat source machine 16 is discharged to the outside through the exhaust port 28. Further, a combustion chamber temperature sensor 30 for detecting the temperature of each of the first combustion chamber 24 and the second combustion chamber 26 is provided inside the combustion chamber 18.

[0025] The first heat source machine 14 includes burners 32a, 32b, 32c, an ignition plug 34, a flame rod 36, a sensible heat exchanger 38, and a latent heat exchanger 40. The burners 32a, 32b, 32c have different combustion areas respectively. Fuel gas is supplied to each of the burners 32a, 32b, 32c via gas branch paths 42a, 42b, 42c. Each of the gas branch paths 42a, 42b, 42c is provided with an on-off valve 44a, 44b, 44c. The on-off valves 44a, 44b, 44c open and close the corresponding gas branch paths 42a, 42b, 42c. The ignition plug 34 is driven by an igniter 46. When the ignition plug 34 is driven in a state where air is supplied by the combustion fan 20 and fuel gas is supplied from the gas branch paths 42a, 42b, 42c to the burners 32a, 32b, 32c, the burners 32a, 32b, 32c burn. The burners 32a, 32b, 32c burn if the corresponding on-off valves 44a, 44b, 44c are in the open state, and do not burn if the corresponding on-off valves 44a, 44b, 44c are in the closed state. The flame rod 36 detects 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 then further cooled by heat exchange in the latent heat exchanger 40, and then discharged from the exhaust port 28 of the combustion chamber 18.

[0026] The second heat source machine 16 includes burners 48a and 48b, an ignition plug 50, a flame rod 52, a sensible heat exchanger 54, and a latent heat exchanger 56. The burners 48a and 48b have different combustion areas respectively. Fuel gas is supplied to each of the burners 48a and 48b via gas branch paths 58a and 58b. On each of the gas branch paths 58a and 58b, on-off valves 60a and 60b are provided. The on-off valves 60a and 60b open and close the corresponding gas branch paths 58a and 58b. The ignition plug 50 is driven by an igniter 46. When air is supplied by the combustion fan 20 and the ignition plug 50 is driven in a state where fuel gas is supplied from the gas branch paths 58a and 58b to the burners 48a and 48b, the burners 48a and 48b burn. The burners 48a and 48b burn if the corresponding on-off valves 60a and 60b are in the open state, and do not burn if the corresponding on-off valves 60a and 60b are in the closed state. The flame rod 52 detects whether the burners 48a and 48b are burning. The combustion gas from the burners 48a and 48b is cooled by heat exchange in the sensible heat exchanger 54, and then further cooled by heat exchange in the latent heat exchanger 56, and then discharged from the exhaust port 28 of the combustion chamber 18.

[0027] The upstream ends of the gas branch paths 42a, 42b, and 42c and the upstream ends of the gas branch paths 58a and 58b are connected to the downstream end of a gas supply path 62. Fuel gas is supplied from a gas supply source (not shown) to the upstream end of the gas supply path 62. An on-off valve 64 and a flow rate adjustment valve 66 are provided in the gas supply path 62. The on-off valve 64 opens and closes the gas supply path 62. The flow rate adjustment valve 66 adjusts the opening degree of the gas supply path 62 to adjust the flow rate of the fuel gas flowing through the gas supply path 62, and adjusts the combustion amounts of the burners 32a, 32b, and 32c of the first heat source machine 14 and the combustion amounts of the burners 48a and 48b of the second heat source machine 16.

[0028] Inside the combustion chamber 18, a drain pan 68 is provided. Drain water generated by the latent heat exchanger 40 of the first heat source machine 14 and drain water generated by the latent heat exchanger 56 of the second heat source machine 16 drip onto the drain pan 68. The drain water that has dripped onto the drain pan 68 is sent to the neutralizer 72 via the drain recovery path 70 and stored in the neutralizer 72. Inside the neutralizer 72, a neutralizing agent (not shown) such as calcium carbonate is filled. The drain water stored in the neutralizer 72 is neutralized by the neutralizing agent. Further, the neutralizer 72 is provided with a trap structure 74. Normally, the space upstream of the trap structure 74 and the space downstream of the trap structure 74 are separated by the drain water stored in the neutralizer 72. Thereby, even if combustion gas from the first heat source machine 14 or the second heat source machine 16 flows into the neutralizer 72 via the drain recovery path 70, the flow of the combustion gas into the space downstream of the trap structure 74 is suppressed. Further, the neutralizer 72 is provided with an overflow port 76. The overflow port 76 opens into the space downstream of the trap structure 74. The overflow port 76 is connected to the upstream end of an overflow path 80. The downstream end of the overflow path 80 is connected to a predetermined drainage location (for example, a sewer). When the water level inside the neutralizer 72 rises and the water (drain water) inside the neutralizer 72 reaches the height of the lower end of the overflow port 76, the water is discharged to the drainage location via the overflow port 76 and the overflow path 80. Thereby, the water level inside the neutralizer 72 is maintained at a position lower than the lower end of the overflow port 76. Further, the neutralizer 72 is provided with a water level electrode 78 for detecting that the water level inside the neutralizer 72 has risen to an abnormal position. The water level detected by the water level electrode 78 is at a position higher than the lower end of the overflow port 76.

[0029] The upstream end of the latent heat exchanger 40 of the first heat source machine 14 is connected to the downstream end of the water supply line 84. Water is supplied from a water supply source (not shown) to the upstream end of the water supply line 84. The downstream end of the latent heat exchanger 40 is connected to the upstream end of the sensible heat exchanger 38 via the communication line 86. The downstream end of the sensible heat exchanger 38 is connected to the upstream end of the hot water supply line 88. The downstream end of the hot water supply line 88 is connected to a faucet (not shown) or the like. The water supply line 84 and the hot water supply line 88 are connected by a hot water supply bypass line 90. A bypass servo 92 is provided at the connection point between the water supply line 84 and the hot water supply bypass line 90. By adjusting the opening degree of the hot water supply bypass line 90, the bypass servo 92 adjusts the ratio of the flow rate of the water sent from the water supply line 84 to the first heat source machine 14 and the flow rate of the water sent from the water supply line 84 to the hot water supply bypass line 90. A first drain plug 94, a water flow rate sensor 96, a water supply thermistor 98, and a water flow rate servo 100 are provided in the water supply line 84 upstream of the bypass servo 92. The water flow rate sensor 96 detects the flow rate of the water flowing through the water supply line 84. The water supply thermistor 98 detects the temperature of the water flowing through the water supply line 84. The water flow rate servo 100 adjusts the flow rate of the water flowing through the water supply line 84. A heat exchanger outlet thermistor 102 is provided in the hot water supply line 88 upstream of the connection point with the hot water supply bypass line 90. The heat exchanger outlet thermistor 102 detects the temperature of the water flowing from the sensible heat exchanger 38 into the hot water supply line 88. A hot water supply thermistor 104 and a second drain plug 106 are provided in the hot water supply line 88 downstream of the connection point with the hot water supply bypass line 90. The hot water supply thermistor 104 detects the temperature of the water sent from the hot water supply line 88 to a faucet (not shown). Also, the water supply line 84 and the communication line 86 are connected by a heat exchanger bypass line 108.

[0030] When the heat machine 2 supplies hot water to a bathtub (not shown), the burners 32a, 32b, and 32c of the first heat source machine 14 burn. In this case, the water supplied from the water supply source to the water supply path 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, and then supplied from the hot water supply path 88 to the bathtub. At this time, the high-temperature water flowing from the sensible heat exchanger 38 into the hot water supply path 88 and the low-temperature water flowing from the water supply path 84 into the hot water supply path 88 through the hot water bypass path 90 are mixed, and the temperature of the water flowing through the hot water supply path 88 is adjusted. By adjusting the combustion amount of the burners 32a, 32b, and 32c of the first heat source machine 14 and the opening degree of the hot water bypass path 90 in the bypass servo 92, the temperature of the water flowing through the hot water supply path 88 can be adjusted to a desired temperature.

[0031] In the hot water supply path 88, the upstream end of the water pouring path 110 is connected between the hot water supply thermistor 104 and the second drain plug 106. The water pouring path 110 is provided with a water pouring control valve 112, check valves 114 and 116, and a flow rate sensor 118. The water pouring control valve 112 opens and closes the water pouring path 110. The check valves 114 and 116 allow the flow of water from the upstream side to the downstream side of the water pouring path 110 and prohibit the flow of water from the downstream side to the upstream side of the water pouring path 110. The flow rate sensor 118 detects the flow rate of the water flowing through the water pouring path 110. The water pouring path 110 on the upstream side of the check valve 116 and on the downstream side of the check valve 114 is connected to the overflow path 80 through the drain path 120. The drain path 120 is provided with an air release valve 122. The air release valve 122 is applied with the water supply pressure from the water supply path 84 through the back pressure path 124. The air release valve 122 opens the drain path 120 to communicate the water pouring path 110 with the overflow path 80 when the water supply pressure of the water supply path 84 drops.

[0032] The downstream end of the hot water supply path 110 is connected to the bathtub return path 126. One end of the bathtub return path 126 is connected to the circulation fitting 128 provided in the bathtub 4. The other end of the bathtub return path 126 is connected to the suction port of the booster pump 132. In the bathtub return path 126, a bathtub return thermistor 130 is provided in the flow path from the connection point of the bathtub return path 126 and the hot water supply path 110 toward the booster pump 132. The bathtub return thermistor 130 detects the temperature of the water flowing from the bathtub return path 126 into the booster pump 132. Also, the discharge port of the booster pump 132 is connected to one end of the bathtub supply path 134. A booster heat exchanger 136 is interposed in the bathtub supply path 134. In the booster heat exchanger 136, heat exchange is performed between the heat medium flowing through the booster circulation path 180 and the water flowing through the bathtub supply path 134. In the bathtub supply path 134, a water flow switch 138 and a water level sensor 140 are provided between the booster pump 132 and the booster heat exchanger 136. The water flow switch 138 detects the presence or absence of water flow in the bathtub supply path 134. The water level sensor 140 detects the water level of the water stored in the bathtub 4. In the bathtub supply path 134, a bathtub supply thermistor 142 is provided on the downstream side of the booster heat exchanger 136. The bathtub supply thermistor 142 detects the temperature of the water flowing through the bathtub supply path 134. The other end of the bathtub supply path 134 is connected to the circulation fitting 128 of the bathtub 4.

[0033] When the hot water supply machine 2 supplies hot water to the bathtub 4, the burners 32a, 32b, and 32c of the first heat source machine 14 burn with the hot water supply control valve 112 open. In this case, the water supplied from the water supply source to the water supply path 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 path 88 from the sensible heat exchanger 38 mixes with the low-temperature water flowing into the hot water supply path 88 from the water supply path 84 via the hot water supply bypass path 90. The water adjusted to the desired temperature by adjusting the combustion amount of the burners 32a, 32b, and 32c of the first heat source machine 14 and adjusting the opening degree of the hot water supply bypass path 90 in the bypass servo 92 flows into the bathtub return path 126 via the hot water supply path 110. The water flowing into the bathtub return path 126 branches into a flow toward one end of the bathtub return path 126 and a flow toward the other end of the bathtub return path 126. The water flowing toward one end of the bathtub return path 126 is sent to the bathtub 4 via the circulation fitting 128. The water flowing toward the other end of the bathtub return path 126 is sent to the bathtub 4 via the booster pump 132, the bathtub forward path 134, and the circulation fitting 128.

[0034] The upstream end of the latent heat exchanger 56 of the second heat source machine 16 is connected to the downstream end of the first heating return path 144. The downstream end of the latent heat exchanger 56 is connected to the upstream end of the second heating return path 146. The downstream end of the second heating return path 146 is connected to the cistern 148. The cistern 148 is a container open to the atmosphere and stores water (heat medium in this embodiment) inside. In the cistern 148, a high water level electrode 150a and a low water level electrode 150b for detecting the internal water level are provided. The water level detected by the high water level electrode 150a (cistern high water level) is higher than the water level detected by the low water level electrode 150b (cistern low water level). Also, a makeup water passage 152 for replenishing water (heat medium) from a water supply source (not shown) to the cistern 148 is connected to the cistern 148. The makeup water passage 152 branches from the water supply passage 84. A makeup water control valve 154 for opening and closing the makeup water passage 152 is provided in the makeup water passage 152. When the internal water level of the heat equipment 2 falls below the cistern low water level, the heat equipment 2 opens the makeup water control valve 154 and replenishes water (heat medium) from the water supply source to the cistern 148 via the water supply passage 84 and the makeup water passage 152. Thereafter, when the internal water level of the cistern 148 reaches the cistern high water level, the heat equipment 2 closes the makeup water control valve 154 and stops replenishing water to the cistern 148. Therefore, the internal water level of the cistern 148 is maintained between the cistern high water level and the cistern low water level. Also, a heat medium overflow passage 156 is provided in the cistern 148. The upstream end of the heat medium overflow passage 156 is connected to the inside of the cistern 148 via an overflow port 158 that opens inside the cistern 148. The downstream end of the heat medium overflow passage 156 is connected to the overflow passage 80. The lower end of the overflow port 158 is arranged above the lower end of the high water level electrode 150a (i.e., the cistern high water level) in the vertical up and down direction. When the internal water level of the cistern 148 rises for some reason above the cistern high water level and reaches the height of the lower end of the overflow port 158, the water (heat medium) in the cistern 148 flows into the overflow port 158. The water (heat medium) that has flowed into the overflow port 158 is discharged to a drainage location via the heat medium overflow passage 156 and the overflow passage 80. Thereby, it is suppressed that water (heat medium) overflows from the cistern 148.

[0035] At the lower part of the cistern 148, the upstream end of the third heating return path 160 is connected. The downstream end of the third heating return path 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 path 164. The downstream end of the discharge path 164 branches into a low-temperature heating supply path 166 and a fourth heating return path 168. The downstream end of the low-temperature heating supply path 166 is connected to the upstream end of the low-temperature heating return path 170 via the low-temperature heating terminal 6. The low-temperature heating terminal 6 in this embodiment is, for example, a floor heating panel. The low-temperature heating terminal 6 performs heating by radiating heat from the heat medium. Although not shown, an on-off valve is built into the low-temperature heating terminal 6. This on-off valve is open when heating is performed at the low-temperature heating terminal 6 and is closed when heating is not performed at the low-temperature heating terminal 6. Further, a low-temperature heating thermistor 172 for detecting the temperature of the heat medium immediately after being sent out from the heating pump 162 is provided in the fourth heating return path 168. The downstream end of the fourth heating return path 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 path 174. A heat exchanger outlet thermistor 176 is provided in the high-temperature heat medium path 174. The heat exchanger outlet thermistor 176 detects the temperature of the heat medium flowing from the sensible heat exchanger 54 into the high-temperature heat medium path 174. The downstream end of the high-temperature heat medium path 174 branches into a high-temperature heating supply path 178, a supplementary heating circulation path 180, and a heating bypass path 182. The downstream end of the high-temperature heating supply path 178 is connected to the upstream end of the high-temperature heating return path 184 via the high-temperature heating terminal 8. The high-temperature heating terminal 8 in this embodiment is, for example, a bathroom heating and drying machine. The high-temperature heating terminal 8 performs heating by radiating heat from the heat medium. Although not shown, an on-off valve is built into the high-temperature heating terminal 8. This on-off valve is open when heating is performed at the high-temperature heating terminal 8 and is closed when heating is not performed at the high-temperature heating terminal 8. The low-temperature heating return path 170 and the high-temperature heating return path 184 merge at their respective downstream ends and are connected to the upstream end of the first heating return path 144. Further, the downstream end of the heating bypass path 182 is connected to the lower part of the cistern 148. A bypass path on-off valve 186 for opening and closing the heating bypass path 182 is provided in the heating bypass path 182. Also, the downstream end of the supplementary heating circulation path 180 is connected to the first heating return path 144.In the afterburning circulation path 180, an afterburning control valve 188 for opening and closing the afterburning circulation path 180 is provided upstream of the afterburning heat exchanger 136.

[0036] When the heat equipment 2 performs heating using the low-temperature heating terminal 6, the on-off valve (not shown) built in the low-temperature heating terminal 6 and the bypass path on-off valve 186 are opened, and the on-off valve (not shown) built in the high-temperature heating terminal 8 is closed. For simplicity of explanation, it is assumed that the afterburning control valve 188 is closed. In this state, the heating pump 162 is driven and the burners 48a, 48b of the second heat source machine 16 burn. In this case, the heat medium flowing through the first heating return path 144 flows into the latent heat exchanger 56. The heat medium that has flowed into the latent heat exchanger 56 is heated by heat exchange in the latent heat exchanger 56 and then sent to the cistern 148 via the second heating return path 146. The heat medium stored in the cistern 148 flows into the discharge path 164 via the third heating return path 160 and the heating pump 162. The heat medium that has flowed into the discharge path 164 branches into a flow toward the sensible heat exchanger 54 via the fourth heating return path 168 and a flow toward the low-temperature heating terminal 6 via the low-temperature heating supply path 166. The heat medium that has flowed into the sensible heat exchanger 54 via the fourth heating return path 168 is heated by heat exchange in the sensible heat exchanger 54 and then flows into the high-temperature heat medium path 174. The heat medium that has flowed into the high-temperature heat medium path 174 flows into the cistern 148 via the heating bypass path 182. Also, the heat medium that has flowed into the low-temperature heating terminal 6 via the low-temperature heating supply path 166 radiates heat in the low-temperature heating terminal 6 and then flows into the first heating return path 144 via the low-temperature heating return path 170. At this time, by adjusting the combustion amount of the burners 48a, 48b of the second heat source machine 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 a desired temperature.

[0037] When the heat engine 2 performs heating using the high-temperature heating terminal 8, the on-off valve (not shown) built into the high-temperature heating terminal 8 is opened, and the on-off valve (not shown) built into the low-temperature heating terminal 6 and the bypass passage on-off valve 186 are closed. In this state, the heating pump 162 is driven and the burners 48a, 48b of the second heat source machine 16 burn. For simplicity of explanation, it is assumed that the supplementary heating control valve 188 is closed. In this case, the heat medium flowing through the first heating return path 144 flows into the latent heat heat exchanger 56. The heat medium that has flowed into the latent heat heat exchanger 56 is heated by heat exchange in the latent heat heat exchanger 56 and then sent to the cistern 148 via the second heating return path 146. The heat medium stored in the cistern 148 flows into the sensible heat heat exchanger 54 via the third heating return path 160, the heating pump 162, the discharge path 164, and the fourth heating return path 168. The heat medium that has flowed into the sensible heat heat exchanger 54 is heated by heat exchange in the sensible heat heat exchanger 54 and then flows into the high-temperature heat medium path 174. The heat medium that has flowed into the high-temperature heat medium path 174 flows into the high-temperature heating terminal 8 via the high-temperature heating supply path 178. The heat medium that has flowed into the high-temperature heating terminal 8 dissipates heat in the high-temperature heating terminal 8 and then flows into the first heating return path 144 via the high-temperature heating return path 184. At this time, by adjusting the combustion amount of the burners 48a, 48b of the second heat source machine 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 a desired temperature.

[0038] When the heat engine 2 performs 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 opened, and the bypass line 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 machine 16 burn. For simplicity of explanation, it is assumed that the supplementary heating control valve 188 is closed. In this case, the heat medium flowing through the first heating return path 144 flows into the latent heat exchanger 56. The heat medium that has flowed into the latent heat exchanger 56 is heated by heat exchange in the latent heat exchanger 56 and then sent to the cistern 148 via the second heating return path 146. The heat medium stored in the cistern 148 flows into the discharge path 164 via the third heating return path 160 and the heating pump 162. The heat medium that has flowed into the discharge path 164 branches into a flow toward the sensible heat exchanger 54 via the fourth heating return path 168 and a flow toward the low-temperature heating terminal 6 via the low-temperature heating supply path 166. The heat medium that has flowed into the low-temperature heating terminal 6 via the low-temperature heating supply path 166 radiates heat in the low-temperature heating terminal 6 and then flows into the first heating return path 144 via the low-temperature heating return path 170. Also, the heat medium that has flowed into the sensible heat exchanger 54 via the fourth heating return path 168 is heated by heat exchange in the sensible heat exchanger 54 and then flows into the high-temperature heating terminal 8 via the high-temperature heating supply path 178. The heat medium that has flowed into the high-temperature heating terminal 8 via the high-temperature heating supply path 178 radiates heat in the high-temperature heating terminal 8 and then flows into the first heating return path 144 via the high-temperature heating return path 184. At this time, by adjusting the combustion amounts of the burners 48a and 48b of the second heat source machine 16 and the output of the heating pump 162, the temperatures of the heat medium flowing through the low-temperature heating terminal 6 and the high-temperature heating terminal 8 can be adjusted to desired temperatures respectively.

[0039] When the heat machine 2 performs post - heating of the bathtub 4, with the post - heating control valve 188 open, the post - heating pump 132 and the heating pump 162 are driven, and the burners 48a, 48b of the second heat source machine 16 burn. For simplicity of explanation, it is assumed that the on - off valves (not shown) built into the low - temperature heating terminal 6, the on - off valves (not shown) built into the high - temperature heating terminal 8, and the bypass line on - off valve 186 are closed. In this case, the heat medium flowing through the first heating return path 144 flows into the latent heat exchanger 56. The heat medium that has flowed into the latent heat exchanger 56 is heated by heat exchange in the latent heat exchanger 56 and then sent to the cistern 148 via the second heating return path 146. The heat medium stored in the cistern 148 flows into the sensible heat exchanger 54 via the third heating return path 160, the heating pump 162, the discharge path 164, and the fourth heating return path 168. The heat medium that has flowed into the sensible heat exchanger 54 is heated by heat exchange in the sensible heat exchanger 54 and then flows into the post - heating circulation path 180 via the high - temperature heat medium path 174. The heat medium that has flowed into the post - heating circulation path 180 is cooled by heat exchange with the water flowing in the bathtub forward path 134 in the post - heating heat exchanger 136 and then returned to the first heating return path 144. Also, the water in the bathtub 4 flows into the bathtub return path 126 via the circulation fitting 128 and into the bathtub forward path 134 via the post - heating pump 132. The water that has flowed into the bathtub forward path 134 is heated by heat exchange with the heat medium flowing through the post - heating circulation path 180 in the post - heating heat exchanger 136 and then returned to the bathtub 4 via the circulation fitting 128. At this time, by adjusting the combustion amount of the burners 48a, 48b of the second heat source machine 16 and the output of the heating pump 162, water heated to a desired temperature can be supplied to the bathtub 4.

[0040] In this embodiment, the water supply path 84, the latent heat exchanger 40, the connection path 86, the sensible heat exchanger 38, the hot water supply path 88, the hot water supply bypass path 90, the heat exchanger bypass path 108, the water pouring path 110, the bathtub return path 126, the reheating pump 132, and the bathtub supply path 134 are collectively referred to as the "bathtub hot water supply circuit B". Also, the first heating return path 144, the latent heat exchanger 56, the second heating return path 146, the cistern 148, the third heating return path 160, the heating pump 162, the discharge path 164, the low-temperature heating supply path 166, the fourth heating return path 168, the sensible heat exchanger 54, the high-temperature heat medium path 174, the high-temperature heating supply path 178, the reheating circulation path 180, and the heating bypass path 182 are collectively referred to as the "heating circuit H". Note that in this embodiment, it should be noted that the sensible heat exchanger 54 mainly heats the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit H. It should be noted that the latent heat exchanger 56 supplements the heating of the heat medium by the latent heat generated when condensing the moisture contained in the combustion gas.

[0041] The heat equipment 2 further includes a fine bubble generator 190 and an air introduction mechanism 192. The fine bubble generator 190 is provided in the third heating return path 160. The air introduction mechanism 192 is provided between the fine bubble generator 190 and the cistern 148.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 2, the fine bubble generator 190 includes a casing 194, a first fine bubble generator 196, and a second fine bubble generator 198. The casing 194 has a substantially cylindrical shape. The casing 194 can be regarded as a part of the heating circuit H (specifically, the third heating return path 160). An inflow portion 200 through which water (heat medium) flows in is provided at the upstream end of the casing 194. An outflow portion 202 through which water flows out is provided at the downstream end of the casing 194. The first fine bubble generator 196 is housed in the casing 194. The first fine bubble generator 196 includes a body portion 204 and a plurality of venturi flow paths 206 penetrating the body portion 204. Each of the plurality of venturi flow paths 206 includes a reduced-diameter flow path 208 whose flow path diameter decreases from the upstream side to the downstream side, and an enlarged-diameter flow path 210 provided on the downstream side of the reduced-diameter flow path 208 and whose flow path diameter increases from the upstream side to the downstream side. A throat portion 209 where the flow path diameter of the venturi flow path 206 is the smallest is provided between the reduced-diameter flow path 208 and the enlarged-diameter flow path 210. The second fine bubble generator 198 is housed in the casing 194 on the downstream side of the first fine bubble generator 196. The second fine bubble generator 198 includes a shaft portion 212 extending in the direction from the upstream side to the downstream side, an outer peripheral portion 214 surrounding the radially outer side of the shaft portion 212, and a plurality of blade portions 216 provided 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 plurality of blade portions 216.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 1, the air introduction mechanism 192 includes an air introduction path 220 extending between the fine bubble generator 190 and the cistern 148. The downstream end of the air introduction path 220 is connected to the third heating return path 160 via the fine bubble generator 190. Specifically, the downstream end of the air introduction path 220 is connected to the throat portion 209 (see FIG. 2) of the venturi flow path 206. The upstream end of the air introduction path 220 is connected to the inside of the cistern 148 via an intake port 222 that opens inside the cistern 148. In the vertical up-and-down direction, the lower end of the intake port 222 is disposed above the upper end of the overflow port 158.

[0044] When water (heat medium) flows through the fine bubble generator 190 shown in Fig. 2, the water first flows into the Venturi channel 206 of the first fine bubble generator 196. When the water passes through the converging channel 208 of the Venturi channel 206, it is depressurized to below atmospheric pressure. As a result, the air previously dissolved in the water flowing through the converging channel 208 precipitates as bubbles. Also, a negative pressure (pressure below atmospheric pressure) is generated in the throat portion 209 through which the water depressurized in the converging channel 208 passes. Due to this negative pressure, the air inside the cistern 148 is drawn into the throat portion 209 through the air intake 222 and the air introduction passage 220. The air drawn into the throat portion 209 is mixed with the water flowing through the throat portion 209 as bubbles. Therefore, the water flowing into the diverging channel 210 from the throat portion 209 contains, in addition to the bubbles precipitated from the water, the bubbles drawn in from the air introduction passage 220. Thereafter, when the water passes through the diverging channel 210, it is pressurized to above atmospheric pressure. As a result, the bubbles contained in the water are split into fine bubbles. Also, the water flowing out from the Venturi channel 206 flows into the swirling channel 218 of the second fine bubble generator 198. When water flows through the swirling channel 218, a swirling flow is generated in which the water flows spirally around the shaft portion 212. At this time, the fine bubbles contained in the water become finer bubbles due to the shearing force of the swirling flow. In this way, fine bubbles are generated in the circuit (heating circuit H) provided with the fine bubble generator 190.

[0045] The heat medium flowing through the heating circuit H shown in FIG. 1 may contain components that cause dirt. Examples of the components that cause dirt here include magnesium ions and calcium ions that cause scale. Thus, the components that cause dirt may include cations. On the other hand, the microbubbles generated by the microbubble generator 190 are usually negatively charged. Therefore, the microbubbles generated by the microbubble generator 190 can adsorb the components that cause dirt. Thereby, the adhesion of dirt to the inner wall of the passage constituting the heating circuit H is suppressed. Further, a part of the microbubbles generated by the microbubble generator 190 is generated so as to cover the inner wall of the passage constituting the heating circuit H. Thereby also, the adhesion of dirt to the inner wall of the passage constituting the heating circuit H is suppressed.

[0046] In this embodiment, even if the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit H flows into the air introduction passage 220 and flows out of the air introduction passage 220 to the outside through the intake port 222, the heat medium flows into the inside of the cistern 148. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit H from flowing to an unintended location. Particularly in this embodiment, since the lower end of the intake port 222 is arranged above the upper end of the overflow port 158 in the vertical up-and-down direction, the water level inside the cistern 148 does not reach the height of the lower end of the intake port 222. For this reason, when drawing the air inside the cistern 148 from the intake port 222 into the air introduction passage 220, the water inside the cistern 148 is not simultaneously drawn from the intake port 222 into the air introduction passage 220. Thereby, the air inside the cistern 148 can be sufficiently introduced into the heating circuit H.

[0047] (Embodiment 2: Heat device 252) The heat device 252 shown in FIG. 3 has substantially the same configuration as the heat device 2 (see FIG. 1) of Embodiment 1. For the components common between the heat device 252 and the heat device 2, the same reference numerals are given and the description thereof is omitted. Hereinafter, the heat device 252 will be described by focusing on the differences from the heat device 2.

[0048] The heat appliance 252 is different from the heat appliance 2 in that the fine bubble generator 190 is provided in the hot water supply path 88 of the bath hot water supply circuit B instead of the third heating return path 160, and the air inlet 222 of the air introduction mechanism 192 is provided in the neutralizer 72 instead of the cistern 148. Specifically, the fine bubble generator 190 is provided on the downstream side of the connection point between the hot water supply path 88 and the hot water supply bypass path 90 and on the upstream side of the hot water supply thermistor 104. The air inlet 222 is disposed above the lower end of the overflow port 76 and opens into the space on the downstream side of the trap structure 74.

[0049] When water flows through the inside of the fine bubble generator 190 (i.e., the hot water supply path 88), due to the negative pressure generated by the flow of water, the air inside the neutralizer 72 is drawn into the inside of the fine bubble generator 190 through the air inlet 222 and the air introduction path 220. The air drawn into the inside of the fine bubble generator 190 is then dissolved in the water. And the fine bubble generator 190 generates fine bubbles in the water flowing through the hot water supply path 88 on the same principle as that described in the first embodiment. Therefore, when the heat appliance 252 supplies hot water to a karan (not shown), the water containing fine bubbles is supplied to the karan. Also, when the heat appliance 252 fills the bathtub 4 with hot water, the water containing fine bubbles is supplied to the bathtub 4.

[0050] In this embodiment, even if the water flowing through the bath hot water supply circuit B flows into the air introduction path 220 and flows out of the outside of the air introduction path 220 through the air inlet 222, the water will flow into the inside of the neutralizer 72. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the water flowing through the bath hot water supply circuit B from flowing to an unintended location.

[0051] (Embodiment 3: Heat Appliance 302) The heat appliance 302 shown in FIG. 4 has substantially the same configuration as the heat appliance 2 (see FIG. 1) of the first embodiment. For the components common between the heat appliance 302 and the heat appliance 2, the same reference numerals are given and the description thereof is omitted. Hereinafter, the heat appliance 302 will be described focusing on the differences from the heat appliance 2.

[0052] The heat appliance 302 is different from the heat appliance 2 in that the fine bubble generator 190 is provided in the bathtub supply path 134 of the bathtub water supply circuit B instead of the third heating return path 160, and the air inlet 222 of the air introduction mechanism 192 is provided in the overflow path 80 instead of the cistern 148. Specifically, the fine bubble generator 190 is provided downstream of the supplementary heater heat exchanger 136 and upstream of the bathtub supply thermistor 142. Specifically, the air inlet 222 is provided downstream of the connection point between the overflow path 80 and the drain path 120.

[0053] When water flows through the inside of the fine bubble generator 190 (i.e., the bathtub supply path 134), the negative pressure generated by the flow of water draws the air inside the overflow path 80 into the inside of the fine bubble generator 190 through the air introduction path 220 from the air inlet 222. The air drawn into the inside of the fine bubble generator 190 then dissolves in the water. Then, the fine bubble generator 190 generates fine bubbles in the water flowing through the bathtub supply path 134 on the same principle as that described in the first embodiment. Therefore, when the heat appliance 302 discharges hot water into the bathtub 4, water containing fine bubbles is supplied to the bathtub 4. Also, when the heat appliance 302 performs supplementary heating of the bathtub 4, water containing fine bubbles is supplied to the bathtub 4.

[0054] In this embodiment, even if the water flowing through the bathtub water supply circuit B flows into the air introduction path 220 and flows out of the outside of the air introduction path 220 through the air inlet 222, the water will flow into the overflow path 80. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the water flowing through the bathtub water supply circuit B from flowing to an unintended location.

[0055] (Modifications according to the first, second, and third embodiments) In the first, second, and third embodiments, the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit H may be a liquid other than water (for example, antifreeze). In this case, the heat appliances 2, 252, and 302 may not be provided with the water supply path 152 and the water supply control valve 154.

[0056] In Examples 1, 2, and 3, the heat devices 2, 252, and 302 may include a heat source device in a mode different from that of the combustion type heat source device, instead of or additionally to the first heat source machine 14 and / or the second heat source machine 16. For example, the heat devices 2, 252, and 302 may include an electric heater, a heat pump, and / or a cogeneration system.

[0057] In Examples 1, 2, and 3, the fine bubble generator 190 may be replaced with a fine bubble generator in a different mode. For example, the fine bubble generator 190 may be replaced with one including a pressurizer (e.g., a pressure tank) that pressurizes and dissolves air in a liquid by pressurizing the liquid, and a decompressor (e.g., a venturi) that precipitates fine bubbles by decompressing the liquid.

[0058] In Examples 1, 2, and 3, the downstream end of the air introduction passage 220 may be connected to the heating circuit H (or the bath hot water supply circuit B) without passing through the fine bubble generator 190. For example, the downstream end of the air introduction passage 220 may be connected to the heating circuit H (or the bath hot water supply circuit B) upstream of the fine bubble generator 190. In this case, a decompressor (e.g., a venturi) that generates a negative pressure along with the flow of the liquid may be provided at the location where the downstream end of the air introduction passage 220 is connected. The air in the air introduction passage 220 may be drawn into the heating circuit H (or the bath hot water supply circuit B) by the negative pressure generated by the decompressor.

[0059] In Example 1, the intake port 222 of the air introduction mechanism 192 may be provided in the neutralizer 72 (the position of the intake port 222 disclosed in Example 2) instead of the cistern 148. In this case, the air inside the neutralizer 72 may be introduced into the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit H. Alternatively, the intake port 222 may be provided in the overflow passage 80 (the position of the intake port 222 disclosed in Example 3) instead of the cistern 148. In this case, the air inside the overflow passage 80 may be introduced into the heat medium flowing through the heating circuit H.

[0060] In Example 2, the intake port 222 of the air introduction mechanism 192 may be provided at the cistern 148 (the position of the intake port 222 disclosed in Example 1) instead of the neutralizer 72. In this case, the air inside the cistern 148 may be introduced into the water flowing through the hot water supply path 88 of the bathtub hot water supply circuit B.

[0061] In Example 1, the lower end of the intake port 222 may be arranged higher than the lower end of the high water level electrode 150a (i.e., the cistern high water level) and lower than the lower end of the overflow port 158.

[0062] (Corresponding relationships according to Examples 1, 2, and 3) In Examples 1, 2, and 3, the heat appliances 2, 252, and 302 are examples of "appliances". The cistern 148 (or the neutralizer 72) is an example of a "container". The overflow path 80 is an example of a "drainage path". The heat medium (or water) is an example of a "liquid". The third heating return path 160 (or the hot water supply path 88, the bathtub forward path 134) is an example of a "liquid passage". The air introduction mechanism 192 is an example of an "air introduction part". The fine bubble generator 190 is an example of a "fine bubble generation part". The intake port 222 is an example of an "intake port". The air introduction path 220 is an example of an "air introduction path". The burners 48a, 48b, the sensible heat exchanger 54, and the latent heat exchanger 56 are examples of "heating parts". The low-temperature heating terminal 6 and the high-temperature heating terminal 8 are examples of "heating devices". The heating circuit H is an example of a "heating circuit". The heating pump 162 is an example of a "heating pump". The cistern 148 is an example of a "cistern". The overflow port 158 is an example of a "first overflow port". The overflow path 80 and the heat medium overflow path 156 are examples of a "first overflow path". The burners 48a, 48b are examples of "combustors". The latent heat exchanger 56 is an example of a "latent heat exchanger". The neutralizer 72 is an example of a "neutralizer". The overflow port 76 is an example of a "second overflow port". The overflow path 80 is an example of a "second overflow path".

[0063] (Example 4: Dishwasher 402) FIG. 5 is a longitudinal sectional view of the dishwasher 402. The dishwasher 402 is a pull-out type dishwasher. The dishwasher 402 includes a main body 512, a washing tub 514, a door 515, a dishwasher controller 560, a fine bubble generator 190, and an air introduction mechanism 192. Note that the fine bubble generator 190 and the air introduction mechanism 192 have substantially the same configuration as those described in the first embodiment.

[0064] The door 515 is provided with an operation panel 516 and an exhaust path 518. The operation panel 516 is provided with various buttons such as a start button and lamps. The exhaust path 518 reaches from the inside to the outside of the washing tub 514.

[0065] The washing tub 514 is housed in a space formed by the main body 512 and the door 515. The washing tub 514 is slidably supported by the main body 512. The washing tub 514 is connected to the door 515. The washing tub 514 is formed in a box shape with an open top. Above the washing tub 514, a lid 556 is arranged. The lid 556 is connected to the washing tub 514 by a lifting mechanism (not shown).

[0066] Inside the washing tub 514, a washing nozzle 520, a dish basket 561 for holding various dishes 519, a food residue filter 517, a heater 530, a thermistor 555, etc. are housed. The washing nozzle 520 is composed of a tower nozzle portion 523 including an upper stage nozzle 521 and a lower stage nozzle 522, and a horizontal nozzle portion 524. The washing nozzle 520 is formed with a plurality of injection ports 521a, 522a, 524a. Near the bottom surface 539 of the washing tub 514, an electric heater 530 for heating water and air in the washing tub 514 is mounted. A thermistor 555 is mounted on the bottom surface 539 of the washing tub 514.

[0067] At the lower part of the outer side of the front of the washing tank 514, a water level detection unit 545 for detecting the water level in the washing tank 514 is provided. The water level when water is normally supplied to the washing tank 514 (hereinafter referred to as "washing water level") is indicated by the two-dot chain line of reference numeral 554. Below the bottom surface 539 of the washing tank 514, a washing pump 527 is provided. The washing pump 527 rotates an impeller 528 by a built-in electric motor. On the bottom surface 539 of the washing tank 514, a washing nozzle 520 is rotatably attached. The washing nozzle 520 communicates with the first discharge port 511 of the washing pump 527.

[0068] At the bottom of the washing tank 514, a suction recess 531 is formed. The upper opening of the suction recess 531 is covered by a food residue filter 517. The water level detection unit 545 and the suction recess 531 are connected by a water level path 550. The washing pump 527 and the suction recess 531 are connected by 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 washing tank 514. A flow path switching valve 576 is attached to the connection portion between the first suction flow path 532 and the second suction flow path 574.

[0069] Outside the rear wall 551 of the washing tank 514, a drying fan 552 is mounted. The drying fan 552 rotationally drives a fan 553 by a built-in motor. The inside of the drying fan 552 and the washing tank 514 are communicated by a drying path 563. The drying fan 552 is arranged higher than the washing water level 554.

[0070] A drain hose 534 is connected to the rear wall 533 of the main body 512. The drain hose 534 and the second discharge port 535 of the washing pump 527 are communicated by a drain flow path 536. The middle of the drain flow path 536 and the inside of the washing tank 514 are communicated by an air bleeding path 537. Near the location where the drain flow path 536 is connected to the drain hose 534, a drain check valve 538 is mounted.

[0071] A water supply hose 540 is connected to a stepped portion horizontally formed in the middle of the rear wall 533 of the main body 512. Water supplied from a water supply source (not shown), such as a water supply pipe, may be directly supplied to the water supply hose 540, or heated warm water may be supplied. A water supply valve 541 is attached inside the rear wall 533. The inlet 544 of the water supply valve 541 and the water supply hose 540 are communicated by a first water flow path 542. The outlet 564 of the water supply valve 541 and the inside of the washing tub 514 are communicated by a second water flow path 543.

[0072] The dishwasher controller 560 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, etc., and controls the operation of the dishwasher 402. The dishwasher controller 560 executes a washing operation for washing the tableware 519 in the washing tub 514 by controlling the operation of the dishwasher 402.

[0073] (Washing operation) When the dishwasher controller 560 receives a user's operation to start the tableware washing operation on the operation panel 516, it sequentially executes a washing step, a rinsing step, and a drying step.

[0074] The dishwasher controller 560 opens the water supply valve 541 in the washing process to supply water from the water supply hose 540 to the washing tub 514. At this time, the detergent stored in a detergent tank (not shown) is added to the water supplied to the washing tub 514. For this reason, in the washing process, water with detergent added (hereinafter also referred to as washing water) is supplied to the washing tub 514. When the dishwasher controller 560 determines that the required amount of washing water has been supplied to the washing tub 514 in the washing process, it closes the water supply valve 541. Next, the dishwasher controller 560 drives the wash pump 527, rotates the impeller 528 in the forward direction, and turns on the heater 530. When the impeller 528 rotates in the forward direction, the washing water is sucked into the wash pump 527 from the suction recess 531 and sent to the wash nozzle 520. The washing water sent to the wash nozzle 520 jets out forcefully from the jet ports 521a, 522a, 524a. Thereby, the tableware 519 is washed. The dishwasher controller 560 ends the washing process when a first predetermined time (for example, 5 minutes) has elapsed since the start of the washing process. Also, the dishwasher controller 560 drives the wash pump 527 and rotates the impeller 528 in the reverse direction. When the impeller 528 rotates in the reverse direction, the washing water is sucked into the wash pump 527 from the suction recess 531 and sent to the drain hose 534 through the drain flow path 536. Thereby, the washing water is discharged from the washing tub 514.

[0075] In the rinsing process, the dishwasher controller 560 opens the water supply valve 541 to supply rinsing water from the water supply hose 540 to the washing tub 514. The rinsing water here refers to water without added detergent. When the required amount of rinsing water is supplied to the washing tub 514, the dishwasher controller 560 closes the water supply valve 541. The dishwasher controller 560 drives the wash pump 527 and rotates the impeller 528 in the forward direction. When the impeller 528 rotates forward, the rinsing water is sucked into the wash pump 527 from the suction recess 531 and sent to the wash nozzles 520. The rinsing water sent to the wash nozzles 520 jets out forcefully from the jet ports 521a, 522a, 524a. Thereby, the dishes 519 are rinsed. The dishwasher controller 560 ends the rinsing process when the second predetermined time (e.g., 5 minutes) has elapsed since the start of the rinsing process. Also, the dishwasher controller 560 drives the wash pump 527 and rotates the impeller 528 in the reverse direction. When the impeller 528 rotates in the reverse direction, the rinsing water is sucked into the wash pump 527 from the suction recess 531 and sent to the drain hose 534 through the drain channel 536. Thereby, the rinsing water is discharged from the washing tub 514.

[0076] In the drying process, the dishwasher controller 560 heats the air in the washing tub 514 by the heater 530 to dry the dishes 519. When the elapsed time since the start of drying the dishes 519 reaches the third predetermined time (e.g., 20 minutes), the dishwasher controller 560 ends the heating by the heater 530 and ends the drying process.

[0077] The microbubble generator 190 is provided in the second water supply passage 543. And the air inlet 222 of the air introduction mechanism 192 is provided in the cleaning tank 514. The air inlet 222 is disposed vertically above the cleaning water level 554 inside the cleaning tank 514. When water flows inside the microbubble generator 190 (i.e., in the second water supply passage 543), due to the negative pressure generated along with the flow of water, the air inside the cleaning tank 514 is drawn into the inside of the microbubble generator 190 from the air inlet 222 through the air introduction passage 220. The air drawn into the inside of the microbubble generator 190 is then dissolved in the water. And the microbubble generator 190 generates microbubbles in the water flowing through the second water supply passage 543 on the same principle as that described in the first embodiment. For this reason, the water supplied to the cleaning tank 514 in the cleaning process and the rinsing process contains many microbubbles. The dirt components adhering to the tableware 519 are adsorbed on the surface of the microbubbles contained in the water. Since the water contains many microbubbles, more dirt components can be adsorbed.

[0078] In this embodiment, even if the water flowing through the second water supply passage 543 flows into the air introduction passage 220 and flows out to the outside of the air introduction passage 220 through the air inlet 222, the water flows into the inside of the cleaning tank 514. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the water flowing through the second water supply passage 543 from flowing to an unintended location.

[0079] (Embodiment 5: Dishwasher 502) The dishwasher 502 shown in FIG. 6 has substantially the same configuration as the dishwasher 402 (see FIG. 5) of the fourth embodiment. For the components common between the dishwasher 502 and the dishwasher 402, the same reference numerals are given and the description thereof is omitted. Hereinafter, the dishwasher 502 will be described focusing on the differences from the dishwasher 402.

[0080] The tableware washing machine 502 is different from the tableware washing machine 402 in that the fine bubble generator 190 is provided at the first discharge port 511 of the washing pump 527 instead of the second water supply passage 543, and the air inlet 222 of the air introduction mechanism 192 is provided in the drain passage 536 instead of the washing tub 514. Specifically, the air inlet 222 is provided at a location where the water (so-called water seal) accumulated in the drain trap 536a formed by the drain passage 536 does not reach.

[0081] When water flows inside the fine bubble generator 190 (i.e., the first discharge port 511), due to the negative pressure generated along with the flow of water, the air inside the drain passage 536 is drawn into the inside of the fine bubble generator 190 from the air inlet 222 through the air introduction passage 220. The air drawn into the inside of the fine bubble generator 190 is then dissolved in the water. Then, the fine bubble generator 190 generates fine bubbles in the water flowing through the first discharge port 511 based on the same principle as described in the first embodiment. Therefore, the water ejected from the ejection ports 521a, 522a, 524a in the washing process and the rinsing process contains many fine bubbles.

[0082] In this embodiment, even if the water flowing through the first discharge port 511 flows into the air introduction passage 220 and flows out of the outside of the air introduction passage 220 through the air inlet 222, the water will flow into the drain passage 536. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the water flowing through the first discharge port 511 from flowing to an unintended location.

[0083] (Modifications according to Embodiments 4 and 5) In the fourth embodiment, the air inlet 222 of the air introduction mechanism 192 may be provided in the drain passage 536 (the position of the air inlet 222 disclosed in the fifth embodiment) instead of the washing tub 514. In this case, the air inside the drain passage 536 may be introduced into the water flowing through the second water supply passage 543.

[0084] In Examples 4 and 5, the fine bubble generator 190 may be replaced with a fine bubble generator in a different form. For example, the fine bubble generator 190 may be replaced with one including a pressurizer (e.g., a pressure tank) that pressurizes and dissolves air in a liquid by pressurizing the liquid, and a decompressor (e.g., a venturi) that precipitates fine bubbles by decompressing the liquid.

[0085] In Examples 4 and 5, the downstream end of the air introduction passage 220 may be connected to the second water supply passage 543 (or the first discharge port 511) without passing through the fine bubble generator 190. For example, the downstream end of the air introduction passage 220 may be connected to the second water supply passage 543 (or the first discharge port 511) upstream of the fine bubble generator 190. In this case, a decompressor (e.g., a venturi) that generates a negative pressure along with the flow of water may be provided at the location where the downstream end of the air introduction passage 220 is connected. The air in the air introduction passage 220 may be drawn into the second water supply passage 543 (or the first discharge port 511) by the negative pressure generated by the decompressor.

[0086] (Corresponding relationships according to Examples 4 and 5) In Examples 4 and 5, the dishwashers 402 and 502 are examples of "appliances". The washing tub 514 is an example of a "container". The drain passage 536 is an example of a "drainage passage". Water is an example of a "liquid". The second water supply passage 543 (or the first discharge port 511) is an example of a "liquid passage". The air introduction mechanism 192 is an example of an "air introduction part". The fine bubble generator 190 is an example of a "fine bubble generation part". The air intake 222 is an example of an "air intake". The air introduction passage 220 is an example of an "air introduction passage". The washing tub 514 is an example of a "washing tub". The second water supply passage 543 is an example of a "water supply passage". The washing nozzle 520 is an example of a "washing nozzle". The first discharge port 511 is an example of a "washing passage". The washing pump 527 is an example of a "washing pump". The drain passage 536 is an example of a "drainage passage".

[0087] The technical elements described in this specification or the drawings exhibit technical utility either individually or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations described in the claims at the time of filing. Further, the technologies exemplified in this specification or the drawings are capable of achieving multiple objectives simultaneously, and achieving one of those objectives by itself has technical utility.

Explanation of Signs

[0088] 2: Heat machine, 4: Bathtub, 6: Low-temperature heating terminal, 8: High-temperature heating terminal, 10: Controller, 12: Remote control, 14: First heat source machine, 16: Second heat source machine, 18: Combustion chamber, 20: Combustion fan, 22: Partition wall, 24: First combustion chamber, 26: Second combustion chamber, 28: Exhaust port, 30: Combustion chamber temperature sensor, 32a: Burner, 32b: Burner, 32c: Burner, 34: Ignition plug, 36: Flame rod, 38: Sensible heat exchanger, 40: Latent heat exchanger, 42a: Gas branch path, 42b: Gas branch path, 42c: Gas branch path, 44a: On-off valve, 44b: On-off valve, 44c: On-off valve, 46: Igniter, 48a: Burner, 48b: Burner, 50: Ignition plug, 52: Flame rod, 54: Sensible heat exchanger, 56: Latent heat exchanger, 58a: Gas branch path, 58b: Gas branch path, 60a: On-off valve, 60b: On-off valve, 62: Gas supply path, 64: On-off valve, 66: Flow control valve, 68: Drain pan, 70: Drain recovery path, 72: Neutralizer, 74: Trap structure, 76: Overflow port, 78: Water level electrode, 80: Overflow path, 84: Water supply path, 86: Connection path, 88: Hot water supply path, 90: Hot water supply bypass path, 92: Bypass servo, 94: First drain plug, 96: Water quantity sensor, 98: Water supply thermistor, 100: Water quantity servo, 102: Heat exchanger outlet thermistor, 104: Hot water supply thermistor, 106: Second drain plug, 108: Heat exchanger bypass path, 110: Water pouring path, 112: Water pouring control valve, 114: Check valve, 116: Check valve, 118: Flow sensor, 120: Drain path, 122: Atmosphere release valve, 124: Back pressure path, 126: Bathtub return path, 128: Circulation fitting, 130: Bathtub return thermistor, 132: Supplementary heating pump, 134: Bathtub forward path, 136: Supplementary heating heat exchanger, 138: Water flow switch, 140: Water level sensor, 142: Bathtub forward thermistor, 144: First heating return path, 146: Second heating return path, 148: Cistern, 150a: High water level electrode, 150b: Low water level electrode, 152: Makeup water path, 154: Makeup water control valve, 156: Heat medium overflow path, 158: Overflow port, 160: Third heating return path, 162: Heating pump, 164: Discharge path, 166: Low-temperature heating forward path, 168: Fourth heating return path, 170: Low-temperature heating return path, 172: Low-temperature heating thermistor, 174: High-temperature heat medium path, 176: Heat exchanger outlet thermistor, 178: High-temperature heating forward path, 180: Supplementary heating circulation path, 182: Heating bypass path, 184: High-temperature heating return path,186: Bypass line on-off valve, 188: Afterburner control valve, 190: Fine bubble generator, 192: Air introduction mechanism, 194: Casing, 196: First fine bubble generator, 198: Second fine bubble generator, 200: Inflow section, 202: Outflow section, 204: Body section, 206: Venturi flow path, 208: Converging flow path, 210: Diverging flow path, 212: Shaft section, 214: Outer peripheral section, 216: Blade section, 218: Swirling flow path, 220: Air introduction path, 222: Air intake port, 252: Heat equipment, 302: Heat equipment, 402: Dishwasher, 502: Dishwasher, 511: First discharge port, 512: Main body, 514: Washing tank, 515: Door, 516: Operation panel, 517: Food residue filter, 518: Exhaust path, 519: Tableware, 520: Washing nozzle, 521: Upper nozzle, 521a: Injection port, 522: Lower nozzle, 522a: Injection port, 523: Tower nozzle section, 524: Horizontal nozzle section, 524a: Injection port, 527: Washing pump, 528: Impeller, 530: Heater, 531: Suction recess, 532: First suction flow path, 533: Rear wall, 534: Drain hose, 535: Second discharge port, 536: Drainage flow path, 536a: Drain trap, 537: Air vent path, 538: Drain check valve, 539: Bottom surface, 540: Water supply hose, 541: Water supply valve, 542: First water supply flow path, 543: Second water supply flow path, 544: Inlet, 545: Water level detection unit, 550: Water level path, 551: Rear wall, 552: Drying fan, 553: Fan, 554: Washing water level, 555: Thermistor, 556: Lid, 560: Dishwasher controller, 561: Dish basket, 563: Drying path, 564: Exit, 572: Opening, 574: Second suction flow path, 576: Flow path switching valve, B: Bath hot water supply circuit, H: Heating circuit,

Claims

1. A container open to the atmosphere; A liquid passage through which liquid flows; an air introduction portion for introducing air into the liquid passage; a microbubble generating unit provided in the liquid passage for generating microbubbles in the liquid flowing through the liquid passage by utilizing air introduced into the liquid passage, The air introduction section is an intake port opening into the inside of the container; an air introduction passage connecting an interior of the liquid passage and the air intake.

2. A heating unit that heats the heat medium; A heating circuit that circulates the heat medium heated by the heating unit to a heating device that performs heating by dissipating heat from the heat medium; A heating pump that pumps the heat medium flowing in the heating circuit; A cistern provided in the heating circuit, The device of claim 1 , wherein the container comprises the cistern.

3. A combustor; a latent heat exchanger that recovers latent heat of the combustion gas generated in the combustor and heats a heat transfer medium; The system further includes a neutralizer for neutralizing drainage generated in the latent heat exchanger, The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the container comprises the neutralizer.

4. A washing tank for storing tableware; a water supply passage through which water flows from a water source toward the cleaning tank; A cleaning nozzle provided inside the cleaning tank; a cleaning passage provided inside the cleaning tank and connected to the cleaning nozzle; a cleaning pump that pumps water from inside the cleaning tank to the cleaning nozzle through the cleaning passage; and a drainage channel through which water discharged from the cleaning tank flows. the liquid passage is the water supply passage, The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the container comprises the washing tank.

5. a drainage path open to the atmosphere; A liquid passage through which liquid flows; an air introduction portion for introducing air into the liquid passage; a microbubble generating unit provided in the liquid passage for generating microbubbles in the liquid flowing through the liquid passage by utilizing air introduced into the liquid passage, The air introduction section is an intake port opening into the drainage path; an air introduction passage connecting an interior of the liquid passage and the air intake.

6. A heating unit that heats the heat medium; A heating circuit that circulates the heat medium heated by the heating unit to a heating device that performs heating by dissipating heat from the heat medium; A heating pump that pumps the heat medium flowing in the heating circuit; A cistern provided in the heating circuit; A first overflow passage having one end connected to a first overflow port of the cistern and the other end connected to a predetermined drainage point, The device of claim 5 , wherein the drainage path includes the first overflow path.

7. A combustor; a latent heat exchanger that recovers latent heat of the combustion gas generated in the combustor and heats a heat transfer medium; a neutralizer for neutralizing drain generated in the latent heat exchanger; A second overflow path having one end connected to a second overflow port of the neutralizer and the other end connected to a predetermined drainage point, The device of claim 5 , wherein the drainage path includes the second overflow path.

8. A washing tank for storing tableware; a water supply passage through which water flows from a water source toward the cleaning tank; A cleaning nozzle provided inside the cleaning tank; a cleaning passage provided inside the cleaning tank and connected to the cleaning nozzle; a cleaning pump that pumps water from inside the cleaning tank to the cleaning nozzle through the cleaning passage; and a drainage channel through which water discharged from the cleaning tank flows. the liquid passage is at least one of the water supply passage and the cleaning passage, The device of claim 5 , wherein the drain comprises the drainage channel.

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