Water server and control method, program, storage medium and control device therefor

Abstract

To provide a water server with improved convenience, capable of hot water control and hot water supply at a high temperature when necessary.SOLUTION: The water server comprises: a heating device 6 that heats hot water of a hot water tank for storing the hot water; a hot water switch (high-temperature heating mode switch 10) assigned with a high-temperature heating mode start function that starts a high-temperature heating mode operation triggered by a long-press operation; a temperature sensor 8 that detects a temperature of the hot water; and a control part 12 configured to shift the device to a high-temperature heating mode in response to a long-pressing of the hot water switch and starts up the heating device, if a detected temperature by the temperature sensor is equal to or above a reference temperature, stop an operation of the heating device when an operation time of the heating device attains a boiling time, if the detected temperature is below the reference temperature, determine a temperature rise of the hot water within a prescribed time, and if the temperature rise of the hot water is detected, continue the operation of the heating device, and if there is no temperature rise of the hot water, terminate the operation of the heating device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 16

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the control of a water server that can dispense hot water at temperatures above 90°C in addition to hot water below 90°C. [Background technology]

[0002] Water servers are generally capable of providing hot water at temperatures below 90°C under normal conditions. However, if a higher temperature is required, the water is heated using other heating methods.

[0003] It is known that a water server capable of dispensing this high-temperature water has an electric kettle attached to the main body of the water server, which heats the hot water from the water server body, and has a means for discharging the water vapor generated during high-temperature heating into the atmosphere (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-101362 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Incidentally, even when hot water from a water server is below 90°C, there is no problem with the hot water function when it comes to drinking tea, milk, etc. However, when cooking instant noodles or other foods with hot water at normal temperatures, it takes time for the food to soften, impairing the speed of cooking and reducing the taste and freshness of the food. In such cases, there is a problem in that hot water at a higher temperature than normal is required.

[0006] However, when the hot water temperature reaches the boiling point of water, a large amount of steam is generated due to boiling, creating an uncomfortable feeling due to the bubbles and vibrations that accompany boiling, and it takes a considerable amount of time to bring the water from a normal temperature to the boiling point. Even cooking instant noodles does not require water that is hot enough to boil. Furthermore, the boiling point is affected by the altitude at which the water dispenser is installed; it is difficult to provide hot water at high temperatures at altitudes above 2,000 meters, and if the boiling point is set as the upper limit for hot water, this upper limit varies depending on the altitude. This is not an issue with the water dispenser itself, but rather a problem with the altitude at which the water dispenser is installed.

[0007] When it comes to the hot water function of water servers, there is also the issue that increasing the temperature of the water coming out in order to cook instant noodles and other foods increases power consumption.

[0008] In response to this issue, the inventors of the present disclosure have discovered that if the high temperature water required by the user is supplied as needed by heating the water from normal hot water to a high temperature just before boiling, it is possible to reduce power consumption while increasing the convenience of the water server, making it suitable for applications such as heating hot water to cook various foods such as instant noodles.

[0009] Therefore, in view of the above problems and findings, the object of the present disclosure is to provide a water server that is more convenient by controlling hot water and enabling high-temperature hot water to be dispensed as needed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the water server of the present disclosure, there is provided a water server having a water supply function including hot water, the water server comprising: a hot water tank for storing the hot water; a heating device for heating the hot water in the hot water tank; a hot water switch assigned a high-temperature heating mode start function that starts high-temperature heating mode operation when pressed and held; a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the hot water; and a control unit that transitions to the high-temperature heating mode and starts the heating device when the hot water switch is pressed and held, and if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is equal to or higher than a reference temperature, stops operation of the heating device when the operating time of the heating device reaches the boiling time, or if the detected temperature is less than the reference temperature, determines whether the temperature of the hot water has risen within a predetermined time, and if the temperature of the hot water has risen, continues operation of the heating device, and if the temperature of the hot water has not risen, terminates operation of the heating device.

[0011] This water server further includes a high temperature mode display unit that can switch from a display indicating that the heating device is operating in the high temperature heating mode to a display indicating that high temperature hot water is available.

[0012] In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the control method for a water server disclosed herein, there is provided a control method for a water server having a water supply function including hot water, comprising the steps of: storing the hot water in a hot water tank; starting high-temperature heating mode operation by pressing and holding a hot water switch, and heating the hot water in the hot water tank using a heating device; acquiring temperature information from a temperature sensor that detects the hot water temperature in the hot water tank; transitioning to the high-temperature heating mode in response to the long press of the hot water switch, and activating the heating device; if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is equal to or higher than a reference temperature, stopping the operation of the heating device when the operating time of the heating device reaches the boiling time; or if the detected temperature is less than the reference temperature, determining whether the temperature of the hot water has risen within a predetermined time, and if the temperature of the hot water has risen, continuing the operation of the heating device; and if the temperature of the hot water has not risen, terminating the operation of the heating device.

[0013] This method of controlling a water server may further include a step of switching, in the high-temperature heating mode, from a display indicating that the heating device is operating to a display indicating that high-temperature hot water is available.

[0014] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, according to one aspect of the program of the present disclosure, there is provided a program to be executed by a computer, which causes the computer to execute the following functions: start high-temperature heating mode operation by pressing and holding a hot water switch, and heat the hot water in the hot water tank using a heating device; acquire temperature information from a temperature sensor that detects the hot water temperature in the hot water tank; transition to the high-temperature heating mode and start the heating device when the hot water switch is pressed and held; if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is equal to or higher than a reference temperature, stop operation of the heating device when the operating time of the heating device reaches the boiling time; or if the detected temperature is less than the reference temperature, determine whether the temperature of the hot water has risen within a specified time; if the temperature of the hot water has risen, continue operation of the heating device; and terminate operation of the heating device if the temperature of the hot water has not risen.

[0015] This program may further cause the computer to execute a function of switching from a display indicating that the heating device is operating in the high-temperature heating mode to a display indicating that high-temperature hot water supply is possible.

[0016] To achieve the above object, one aspect of a recording medium of the present disclosure is a recording medium storing the program.

[0017] In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the control device for a water server disclosed herein, the control device for a water server has a hot water tank for storing hot water, a heating device for heating the hot water in the hot water tank, a hot water switch assigned a high-temperature heating mode start function that starts high-temperature heating mode operation when pressed and held, and a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the hot water, and has a water supply function including the hot water, and is further equipped with a control unit that transitions to the high-temperature heating mode when the hot water switch is pressed and held, starts the heating device, and if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is equal to or higher than a reference temperature, stops the operation of the heating device when the operating time of the heating device reaches the boiling time, or if the detected temperature is less than the reference temperature, determines whether the temperature of the hot water has risen within a specified time, and if the temperature of the hot water has risen, continues the operation of the heating device, and if the temperature of the hot water has not risen, terminates the operation of the heating device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] According to the present disclosure, any of the following effects can be obtained. (1) The water server can meet a wide range of hot water needs by improving its convenience and enabling it to provide high-temperature hot water at the appropriate time, such as when high-temperature hot water is required, and by making it applicable to hot water cooking of hot water-heated foods such as instant noodles.

[0019] (2) High-temperature hot water is dispensed when required, reducing wasteful power consumption and realizing high-temperature hot water dispense without using heating equipment such as an electric kettle designed solely for high-temperature heating. (3) High-temperature boiling inside the water server can be suppressed, enabling hot water to be dispensed at a high temperature. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a water server according to a first embodiment; [Figure 2] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a heating control function according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of heating control. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the transition of the heating time and the temperature of the hot water. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a heating control function of a water server according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of heating control. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the transition of the heating time and the temperature of the hot water. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a water server according to a third embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a heating control function of a water server according to a third embodiment. [Figure 10] 1A is a diagram showing the relationship between outside air temperature and boiling time, and FIG. 1B is a diagram showing a boiling time database. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a water server according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the functional parts of the water server. [Figure 13] FIG. 1A is a diagram showing the operation of supplying raw water, and FIG. 1B is a diagram showing the operation of supplying raw water to a hot water tank. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation panel unit. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a control unit of the water server. [Figure 16] 4 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of heating control according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating heating control and information presentation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] 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.

[0022] The hot water tank 4 receives raw water W from, for example, a water container (not shown) and stores hot water HW or high-temperature water hHW obtained by heating in the heating device 6. The hot water HW or high-temperature water hHW can be poured by a pouring means (not shown).

[0023] The heating device 6 heats the raw water W or hot water HW in the hot water tank 4 under the control of the control unit 12. The temperature sensor 8 measures the temperature (hot water temperature HT) of the hot water HW being heated in the hot water tank 4, and this temperature information is input to the control unit 12 and used for temperature control of the hot water HW or high-temperature heating control.

[0024] The high-temperature heating mode switch 10 is used to issue an instruction to start high-temperature heating mode control under the control of the control unit 12.

[0025] The control unit 12 is an example of a control device of the present disclosure. The control unit 12 is configured, for example, by a computer, and controls the heating device 6. This control includes hot water control, high-temperature heating control, information presentation control, and the like. The control unit 12 is equipped with a timer 16, which measures the boiling time tm. The boiling time tm is the time required to boil the hot water HW into high-temperature water hHW.

[0026] The information presentation unit 14 presents temperature information such as hot water control and high-temperature heating control under the control of the control unit 12, for example.

[0027] <Control by control unit 12> 2 shows the heating control functions of the water server 2. These control functions include hot water control 18, high-temperature heating control 20, and information display control 22. Hot water control 18 is a basic function of the water server 2, which is to maintain the raw water W at a constant temperature, for example, below 90°C.

[0028] The high-temperature heating control 20 includes setting the boiling reference temperature Tref, setting the boiling time tm, high-temperature heating control of the heating device 6, monitoring and determining the boiling time tm, and control to end the high-temperature heating mode.

[0029] a) Setting the reference temperature Tref for boiling: The reference temperature Tref for boiling is the temperature at which hot water HW is boiled to high-temperature water hHW, and is the temperature at the start of measuring the boiling time tm. This reference temperature Tref is set in the control unit 12 before high-temperature heating begins, i.e., at the installation location of the water server 2, etc.

[0030] b) Setting the boiling time tm: The boiling time tm is the time required to boil the water from the reference temperature Tref to the high-temperature water hHW. The temperature of the high-temperature water hHW is, for example, the high temperature before the hot water HW boils. This boiling time tm is set in the control unit 12 before high-temperature heating begins, i.e., at the installation location of the water server 2, etc.

[0031] c) High-temperature heating control of heating device 6: This high-temperature heating control is started under the control of control unit 12 in response to an instruction from operating high-temperature heating mode switch 10. This high-temperature heating instruction may be given during the hot water mode, or may be given before the hot water mode starts.

[0032] d) Monitoring and Determination of Boiling Time tm: Monitoring and determination of the boiling time tm is performed by the control unit 12. To monitor the boiling time tm, the timer 16 starts counting from the reference temperature Tref, and the boiling time tm starts to change based on that counting. The boiling time tm is determined by determining whether the measured time t has reached the boiling time tm.

[0033] e) End of high-temperature heating mode: When the boiling time tm is reached, the control unit 12 ends the high-temperature heating control and switches the heating device 6 to normal hot water control or ends the heating operation of the heating device 6.

[0034] In this heating control, in the information presentation control 22, the control unit 12 causes the information presentation unit 14 to present any one of warm water display, heating display, and high temperature display. The warm water display is the presentation of the temperature information of the warm water HW during the execution of the warm water mode. The heating display is the presentation of the temperature information during the execution of the high temperature heating mode. The high temperature display is the presentation of the temperature information of the warm water HW or the high temperature water hHW after being heated at high temperature in the high temperature heating mode.

[0035] <Heating control> FIG. 3 shows the processing procedure of the heating control. This processing procedure is an example of the processing procedure of the control method or program of the water server.

[0036] This processing procedure includes a warm water control step (S101), a start step of the high temperature heating mode (S102, S103, S104), a warm water temperature determination step (S105), a boiling time determination step (S106, S107), an end step of the high temperature heating mode (S108), a step of stopping the timing of the timer 16 (S109), and an information presentation step, etc.

[0037] When the water server 2 starts operating, the control unit 12 executes warm water control (S101). In this warm water control, the control unit 12 monitors the operation of the high temperature heating mode switch 10, and if there is no such operation (NO in S102), the warm water control (S101) is continued.

[0038] When the high temperature heating mode switch 10 is operated (YES in S1O2), the control unit 12 shifts to the high temperature heating mode (S103). The heating device 6 starts a high temperature heating operation under the control of the control unit 12 (S104). In the case of shifting from the warm water control to the high temperature heating operation, continuing the heating operation of the heating device 6 is an example of the high temperature heating operation.

[0039] The control unit 12 acquires the temperature information of the warm water temperature HT from the temperature sensor 8, and determines whether the warm water temperature HT is equal to or higher than the reference temperature Tref (S105). If HT < Tref (NO in S105), it waits until HT ≥ Tref. When HT≧Tref (YES in S105), the timer 16 starts counting time under the control of the control unit 12 (S106).

[0040] The control unit 12 monitors the time t measured by the timer 16 and determines whether the measured time t has reached the boiling time tm (S107). That is, high-temperature heating continues until the measured time t reaches the boiling time tm (NO in S107).

[0041] When the measured time t reaches the boiling time tm (YES in S107), the control unit 12 ends the high-temperature heating mode (S108), and the hot water HW in the hot water tank 4 is boiled up to high-temperature water hHW. When the high-temperature heating mode ends, the control unit 12 turns off the timer 16 (S109), and returns to S101.

[0042] It has been confirmed that when the high-temperature heating mode is ended, the heating device 6 has reached a high temperature as a result of high-temperature heating, and the residual heat causes the temperature of the high-temperature water hHW in the hot water tank 4 to rise by about 1°C. In other words, when the high-temperature heating mode is ended, it is possible to provide high-temperature water hHW that is about 1°C higher than the controlled temperature of the high-temperature water hHW.

[0043] Then, under the control of the control unit 12, the information presentation unit 14 presents a hot water display G1 during hot water control (S101), a high temperature heating mode start display G2 at the start of the high temperature heating mode in the high temperature heating mode start step (S102), a temperature rising display G3 during the high temperature heating mode temperature determination step (S105) and the boiling time determination step (S106, S107), and a high temperature display G4 during the high temperature heating mode end step (S108).

[0044] <Water heating time and temperature transition> Figure 4 shows the transition of the hot water temperature HT, with the horizontal axis representing heating time and the vertical axis representing water temperature. When the high-temperature heating mode switch 10 is turned on at time t0, the high-temperature heating mode is initiated. Under the control of the control unit 12, the heating control of the heating device 6 transitions from the hot water control region, which is hot water control, to the high-temperature heating control region.

[0045] When the hot water temperature HT reaches the reference temperature Tref at time t1, the timer 16 starts measuring time from this point in time. The control unit 12 monitors the measured time t and determines whether the measured time t has reached the boiling time tm.

[0046] When the boiling time tm is reached at time t2, the control unit 12 ends the high-temperature heating mode. That is, the heating device 6 ends the high-temperature heating operation under the control of the control unit 12, and high-temperature heating of the hot water HW ends.

[0047] Even after this high-temperature heating operation is completed, the hot water HW continues to be heated by the residual heat of the heating device 6 and the hot water tank 4. That is, the temperature remains at Tmax, which is higher than the temperature at the end of the high-temperature heating mode (t2).

[0048] In this way, the hot water HW changes to high-temperature water hHW due to high-temperature heating. The information display unit 14 displays a hot water display G1 during hot water control, a high-temperature heating mode start display G2 when the high-temperature heating mode starts, and a temperature rising display G3 in the high-temperature heating control range, and displays a high temperature display G4 after the high-temperature water hHW is reached.

[0049] <Advantages of the First Embodiment> According to the first embodiment, one of the following effects can be obtained. (1) In hot water control, in addition to the hot water control of the water server 2, high temperature heating control can be performed by operating the high temperature heating mode switch 10, and this high temperature heating control can cause the heating device 6 to start reheating, thereby boiling the hot water HW into high temperature water hHW.

[0050] (2) With previous water servers, a kettle or electric kettle was used to meet the demand for high-temperature water, but this hassle is eliminated.

[0051] (3) The boiling of the hot water HW in the water server 2 can be suppressed, and the generation of bubbles and vibrations during boiling can be prevented.

[0052] (4) Even if the hot water HW is boiled using the boiling time tm setting after reaching the reference temperature Tref, the temperature of the high-temperature water hHW will be, for example, about 92°C, and even if the high-temperature heating mode is terminated, the temperature of the high-temperature water hHW can be raised to, for example, about 1°C using the residual heat of the heating device 6. Using such high-temperature water hHW can speed up simple cooking of instant noodles and the like, without compromising the taste and freshness of the noodles.

[0053] (5) High-temperature water hHW can be generated instantly in response to demand by simply operating the high-temperature heating mode switch 10, thereby reducing power consumption compared to maintaining the high-temperature heating mode all the time.

[0054] (6) When hot water control is in effect, a hot water display is displayed, and when hot water control is switched to high temperature heating mode, a temperature rising display is displayed during the process, and once the water has been heated to a high temperature, a high temperature display is displayed, so that consumers can easily know the heating status of the water server 2.

[0055] (7) Temperature control using the temperature sensor 8 can be achieved not only by a thermistor thermometer but also by using a temperature measuring switch such as a bimetal switch.

[0056] Second Embodiment The water server 2 of the second embodiment has the same configuration as the water server 2 shown in FIG.

[0057] 5 shows the control functions of a water server 2 according to the second embodiment. In this control function, the same parts as those in FIG. 2 are given the same reference numerals.

[0058] The high-temperature heating control 20 shown in Figure 5 includes setting the boiling reference temperature Tref, setting the boiling time tm, high-temperature heating control of the heating device 6, monitoring and determining the boiling time tm, monitoring and determining the temperature rise of the high-temperature water hHW, and stopping the heating operation of the heating device 6.

[0059] a) Setting the boiling reference temperature Tref, b) Setting the boiling time tm, c) High temperature heating control of the heating device 6, d) Monitoring and determination of the boiling time tm: These are the same as in the first embodiment, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0060] e) Monitoring and Determining Temperature Rise of the High-Temperature Water hHW: This monitoring and determination of temperature rise of the high-temperature water hHW is performed under the control of the control unit 12. During high-temperature heating, the control unit 12 acquires hot water temperature information from the temperature sensor 8 and monitors the temperature rise of the high-temperature water hHW. It then determines whether there is a temperature rise in the high-temperature water hHW during the continuing fixed time tq. If there is no temperature rise, it determines that the temperature Tmax has already been reached before the boiling time tm has elapsed.

[0061] f) Stopping the heating operation of the heating device 6: The control unit 12 stops the heating operation of the heating device 6 even before the boiling time tm is reached.

[0062] <Heating control> Figure 6 shows the procedure for controlling heating. This procedure is an example of the procedure for controlling a water dispenser or a program.

[0063] This processing procedure includes a hot water control step (S201), a high-temperature heating mode start step (S202, S203, S204), a temperature determination step (S205), a boiling time determination step (S206, S207), a heating operation stop step (S208), a timer 16 timing off step (S209), and a temperature rise determination step (S210).

[0064] These hot water control step (S201), high-temperature heating mode start step (S202, S203, S204), temperature determination step (S205), boiling time determination step (S206, S207), and timer 16 time-off step (S209) are the same as the already-described hot water control step (S101), high-temperature heating mode start step (S102, S103, S104), temperature determination step (S105), boiling time determination step (S106, S107), and timer 16 time-off step (S109 (FIG. 3)), and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0065] In this embodiment, in the temperature determination step (S205), if HT < Tref (NO in S205), the process proceeds to S210. In S210, it is determined whether there is no temperature rise of the high-temperature water hHW during a continuous fixed time tq. If there is a temperature rise (NO in S210), since it is in the middle of heating, the process returns to S205 to continue the heating operation. On the contrary, if there is no temperature rise (YES in S210), further heating is unnecessary, indicating that it is approaching the boiling temperature, so the process proceeds to S208. In this S208, since the high-temperature water hHW is obtained, the heating operation of the heating device 6 is stopped.

[0066] <Heating time and temperature transition of water> FIG. 7 shows the transition of the warm water temperature HT, with the heating time on the horizontal axis and the water temperature on the vertical axis. When the high-temperature heating mode switch 10 is turned on at time t0, the high-temperature heating mode is started. Under the control of the control unit 12, the heating control of the heating device 6 transitions from the warm water control region, which is warm water control, to the high-temperature heating control region.

[0067] When the warm water temperature HT reaches the reference temperature Tref at time t1, the timer 16 starts timing from this point. The control unit 12 monitors the measurement time t and determines whether this measurement time t has reached the boiling-up time tm.

[0068] Before reaching the boiling-up time tm at time t2, no temperature rise of the high-temperature water hHW is recognized during a continuous fixed time tq. At this time, the control unit 12 ends the high-temperature heating operation of the heating device 6. That is, before reaching the boiling-up time tm at time t3, the high-temperature heating operation ends.

[0069] Even after this high-temperature heating operation ends, the warm water HW is heated by the remaining heat of the heating device 6 and the warm water tank 4, but reaches a temperature Tmax higher than the temperature of the warm water HW at the time when a continuous fixed time tq elapses.

[0070] <Effects of the second embodiment> According to this second embodiment, any of the following effects can be obtained. (1) The same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained, and if the temperature rise of the high-temperature water hHW stops even before the boiling time tm is reached, the high-temperature heating control is terminated, thereby suppressing high-temperature boiling of the high-temperature water hHW.

[0071] (2) Excessive high temperature heating can be prevented, power consumption can be reduced, and high temperature water hHW can be provided quickly before the boiling time tm is reached.

[0072] Third Embodiment Figure 8 shows a water server 2 according to a third embodiment. The configuration shown in Figure 8 is an example, and the present disclosure is not limited to such a configuration. In Figure 8, the same parts as in Figure 1 are designated by the same reference numerals.

[0073] Water server 2 is equipped with temperature sensor 24 that detects the outside air temperature. Temperature sensor 24 detects the outside air temperature in the installation environment of water server 2. Control unit 12 acquires outside air temperature information from temperature sensor 24 as temperature information for calculating boiling time tm.

[0074] The control unit 12 is configured as a computer, and in addition to the above-mentioned controls, it also performs calculation control of the boiling time tm associated with the outside air temperature Td. This calculation control calculates the boiling time tm associated with the outside air temperature Td using the actual measured values ​​of the outside air temperature Td and the boiling time tm, and generates the boiling time database 25. This boiling time database 25 is stored in the memory unit 54 in the control unit 12.

[0075] <Control of Water Server 2> 9 shows the control functions of a water server 2 according to the third embodiment. In this control function, the same parts as those in FIG. 5 are given the same reference numerals.

[0076] This control includes hot water control 18, high temperature heating control 20, information display control 22, and boiling time tm calculation control 26. Hot water control 18 and information display control 22 are the same as those already described, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0077] The high-temperature heating control 20 includes setting the boiling reference temperature Tref, obtaining the outside air temperature Td, obtaining the boiling time tm, setting the boiling time tm, high-temperature heating control of the heating device 6, monitoring and determining the boiling time tm, monitoring and determining the temperature rise of the high-temperature water hHW, and ending the heating operation of the heating device 6.

[0078] a) Setting of the reference temperature Tref for boiling: This is the same as the setting of the reference temperature Tref described above, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0079] b) Acquisition of outside air temperature Td: For example, the outside air temperature Td is measured using the temperature sensor 24 installed in the water server 2 (product) or the prototype device, and the control unit 12 acquires the outside air temperature information.

[0080] c) Acquisition of boiling time tm: The control unit 12 acquires the boiling time tm associated with the outside air temperature Td from the boiling time database 25.

[0081] d) Setting of boiling time tm: The control unit 12 sets the boiling time tm.

[0082] e) High temperature heating control of the heating device 6, f) monitoring and determination of the boiling time tm, and g) monitoring and determination of the temperature rise of the high temperature water hHW: These are the same as those already described, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0083] h) Stopping the heating operation of the heating device 6: The control unit 12 stops the heating operation of the heating device 6 to prevent the high-temperature water hHW from boiling.

[0084] The calculation control 26 of the boiling time tm is an example of a calculation method of the boiling time tm of the present disclosure. The calculation control 26 of the boiling time tm includes obtaining outside air temperature information, calculating the boiling time tm, and generating the boiling time database 25.

[0085] i) Acquisition of Outside Air Temperature Information: The control unit 12 acquires outside air temperature information indicating a plurality of outside air temperatures Td measured by the temperature sensor 24 .

[0086] j) Calculation of boiling time tm: The control unit 12 calculates the boiling time tm associated with the outside air temperature Td based on actual measurements of the outside air temperature Td and the boiling time tm using the product water server 2 or a prototype device.

[0087] k) Creation of boiling time database 25: The control unit 12 stores the calculation result of the boiling time tm associated with the outside air temperature Td in the boiling time database 25.

[0088] <Relationship between outside temperature Td and heating time tm> FIG. 10A shows a calibration curve L that indicates the relationship between the outside air temperature Td and the boiling time tm, with the outside air temperature Td on the horizontal axis and the boiling time tm on the vertical axis.

[0089] The boiling time tm is the time required for the high-temperature water hHW to reach the temperature Tmax before boiling from the reference temperature Tref when the temperature is raised from the hot water HW to the high-temperature water hHW.

[0090] Therefore, by measuring a plurality of different outside air temperatures Td (= Td1, Td2, . . . , Tdx) and measuring the boiling time tm (= tm1, tm2, . . . , tmx) corresponding to these actual measured values, boiling time information representing the boiling time tm associated with a plurality of outside air temperatures Td can be obtained, as shown in A of Figure 10. This calibration curve L is an example of a method for calculating the boiling time tm for the outside air temperature Td, and the present disclosure is not limited to such a method.

[0091] <Boiling Time Database 25> 10B shows an example of the data structure of boiling time database 25. As described above, this data structure is a table of the calibration curve L obtained by measuring outside air temperature Td (= Td1, Td2, . . . , Tdx) and measuring boiling time tm (= tm1, tm2, . . . , tmx) corresponding to outside air temperature Td (= Td1, Td2, . . . , Tdx). By storing this in memory 54 of control unit 12, the optimal boiling time tm can be calculated based on the detected outside air temperature Td, and boiling time database 25 that can be used for each heating control can be constructed in water server 2.

[0092] <Advantages of the Third Embodiment> According to the third embodiment, one of the following effects can be obtained. (1) The same effects as those of the first or second embodiment can be obtained, and if the temperature rise of the high-temperature water hHW stops even before the boiling time tm is reached, the high-temperature heating control is terminated, thereby suppressing high-temperature boiling of the high-temperature water hHW.

[0093] (2) The boiling time tm (= tm1, tm2, ..., tmx) corresponding to the outside air temperature Td (= Td1, Td2, ..., Tdx) can be obtained in advance, and the optimal boiling time tm for the outside air temperature Td in the installation environment of water server 2 can be selected.

[0094] (3) High-temperature water (hHW) can be generated based on heating control using a boiling time (tm) optimized for the installation environment, and can be used for a variety of hot water applications, such as the simple cooking of instant noodles.

[0095] (4) The generation of steam due to boiling hot water in the water server 2 and the vibration noise caused by boiling are avoided, and high-temperature water hHW can be quickly provided in that environment.

[0096] (5) High-temperature water (hHW) can be provided in a timely manner and in a short time, thereby reducing power consumption and realizing a highly convenient water server 2. [Example]

[0097] Fig. 11 shows a water server 2 according to an embodiment. The configuration shown in Fig. 11 is an example, and the present invention is not limited to such a configuration.

[0098] This water server 2 has, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped server housing 28, which is provided with a water container mounting section 29, an operation panel section 30, a hot / cold water pouring cover section 32, and a water pouring receptacle section 34.

[0099] The hot / cold water pouring cover 32 is provided with a water pouring port 36 for pouring cold water or cold water, and a hot water pouring port 38 for pouring hot water or hot water. The water pouring receiver 34 is provided with a drainage section 40.

[0100] <Water Server 2 Functional Parts> Figure 12 shows the functional parts of the water server 2. The configuration shown in Figure 12 is an example, and the present disclosure is not limited to such a configuration. In Figure 12, the same parts as in Figure 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0101] This water server 2 has a server housing 28, on which a replaceable water container 100 is installed, raw water W is supplied from the water container 100, cold water CW is produced in a cold water tank 102, and hot water HW is produced in a hot water tank 4.

[0102] The cold water tank 102 is installed on top of the server housing 28, the hot water tank 4 is installed below the cold water tank 102, and the cooling device 60 is installed below the hot water tank 4. The cooling device 60 cools the cold water tank 102 and causes the cold water tank 102 to produce cold water CW from raw water W.

[0103] 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 .

[0104] 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 midway to 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 the on-off arm portion 114.

[0105] An evaporator 118 of the cooling device 60 controlled by the control unit 12 is installed in the cold water tank 102. This evaporator 118 circulates the refrigerant cooled by the cooling device 60, cools the raw water W by heat exchange between the refrigerant and the raw water W, and generates cold water CW in the cold water tank 102. A temperature sensor 87 is installed in this cold water tank 102, and the detection output of the temperature sensor 87 is provided to the control unit 12, which acquires temperature information about the cold water.

[0106] 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 4. The raw water W is introduced into the hot water tank 4 through the recess 122 of the separation plate 120 and the water supply pipe 124.

[0107] The hot water tank 4 is equipped with a heating device 6 controlled by the control unit 12. This heating device 6 generates heat under the control of the control unit 12 and heats the raw water W. This produces hot water HW from the raw water W. Furthermore, under the control of the control unit 12, the heating device 6 boils the hot water HW into high-temperature water hHW in a high-temperature heating mode.

[0108] A temperature sensor 8 is installed in this hot water tank 4. The detection output of the temperature sensor 8 is provided to the control unit 12, which acquires temperature information of the hot water HW or high temperature water hHW.

[0109] A bypass pipe 126 is connected between the top of the hot water tank 4 and the bottom of the cold water tank 102, and hot water HW in the cold water tank 102 and the hot water tank 4 can be circulated through this bypass pipe 126. A bypass valve 128 controlled by the control unit 12 is installed in this bypass pipe 126.

[0110] 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 4. 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 with the cold water button 79 (Figure 14), and the hot water solenoid valve 65 can be opened with the hot water button 80 (Figure 14).

[0111] The operation panel unit 30 connected to the control unit 12 has an information presentation function as well as an operation function controlled by the control unit 12, and the information presentation function is an example of the information presentation unit .

[0112] <Supply mechanism for raw water W from water container 100> 13A shows a mechanism for supplying raw water W from the water container 100. When the water container 100 is installed, the raw water W in the water container 100 flows into the cold water tank 102 due to gravity.

[0113] 13A, 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 that are opened around the water supply hole 134 of the water supply pipe 124, and some of the raw water W flows from the water supply hole 134 through the water supply pipe 124 into the hot water tank 4.

[0114] <Restrictions on raw water supply> B in Fig. 13 shows the supply restriction of raw water W. When the water level in the cold water tank 102 reaches the separation plate 120 as shown in B in Fig. 13, the water passage hole 136 is blocked by raw water W. As a result, the raw water W is led to the hot water tank 4 at once through the water supply pipe 124 of the separation plate 120.

[0115] When the hot water tank 4 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 part 116 to receive buoyancy, causing the on-off valve 112 of the valve mechanism 110 to rise, which then closes the water supply nozzle part 106, stopping the supply of raw water W.

[0116] 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 this raw water W.

[0117] <Operation panel section 30> 14 shows the front panel surface of the operation panel unit 30, which is an example of the information presentation unit 14. In FIG. 14, the same parts as in FIG. 11 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0118] The cold water lamp 69, weak cooling lamp 70, hot water lamp 72, high temperature lamp 74, energy saving lamp 75, and lock lamp 76 are examples of the lamp display unit 30-1. The cold water lamp 69 lights up in green when cold water can be poured and the water temperature is appropriate, and lights up in orange when the temperature is not appropriate. The weak cooling 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 the lock is set and goes out when the lock is released.

[0119] The cold water button 79, hot water button 80, energy saving button 82, and lock / unlock button 84 are examples of the button operation unit 30-2. The cold water button 79 can be pressed briefly or for a long time. The hot water button 80 can be pressed briefly or for a long time. The hot water button 80 is assigned the function of the high-temperature heating mode switch 10 described above, and pressing it for a long time starts the high-temperature heating mode.

[0120] The energy saving button 82 is operated when starting the energy saving mode. The lock / unlock button 84 can be pressed for a short time or a long time and is used to lock or unlock.

[0121] <Water Server 2 System> Figure 15 shows an example of a system for water server 2. The configuration shown in Figure 15 is an example, and the present disclosure is not limited to such a configuration. In Figure 15, the same parts as in Figures 12 and 14 are assigned the same reference numerals.

[0122] The control unit 12 includes a processor 52. The processor 52 executes an OS (Operating System) stored in a storage unit 54, a hot water control program and a high-temperature heating control program of the present disclosure, and the like.

[0123] 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 hot water control program and the high-temperature heating control program of the present disclosure, as well as various control data. The RAM forms a work area for information processing.

[0124] The input / output unit (I / O) 56 is used for control output and information input of the heating device 6 and the like under the control of the processor 52.

[0125] The heating device 6 operates by receiving drive output from a heating drive unit 7 controlled by the processor 52 via the I / O 56. The cooling device 60 operates by receiving drive output from a cooling drive unit 61 controlled by the processor 52 via the I / O 56. The cold water solenoid valve 64 operates by receiving drive output from a cold water solenoid valve drive unit 67 controlled by the processor 52 via the I / O 56. The hot water solenoid valve 65 operates by receiving drive output from a hot water solenoid valve drive unit 68 controlled by the processor 52 via the I / O 56.

[0126] The lamp display unit 30-1 includes, for example, a cold water lamp 69, a weak cool lamp 70, a hot water lamp 72, a high temperature lamp 74, an energy saving lamp 75, and a lock lamp 76. Each of the lamps 69, 70, 72, 74, 75, and 76 is turned on or off in response to a turn-on or turn-off output from a lamp driver 78 controlled by the processor 52.

[0127] The button operation unit 30-2 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.

[0128] The temperature sensor 87 detects the temperature of the cold water under the control of the processor 52, and the temperature sensor 8 detects the temperature of the hot water under the control of the processor 52. Each piece of detected information is taken into the I / O 56 under the control of the processor 52.

[0129] <Heating control procedure> Figure 16 shows the procedure for heating control. This heating control corresponds to the second embodiment (Figure 6) and embodies such processing. This procedure is an example of the control method or program for the water server of the present disclosure.

[0130] According to this processing procedure, when the water server 2 is started, the control unit 12 starts hot water control (S301). At this time, the control unit 12 also simultaneously executes cold water control.

[0131] In this hot water control, the control unit 12 monitors whether the hot water button 80 is pressed and held (S302). If the hot water button 80 is not pressed and held (NO in S302), the hot water control continues (S301).

[0132] If the hot water button 80 is pressed and held (YES in S302), the mode transitions to high-temperature heating mode (S303), and the heating device 6 is started (S304). If the heating device 6 is currently operating, this start-up continues the operation, and if it is stopped, the heating operation is started.

[0133] In this high-temperature heating mode, the control unit 12 acquires temperature information of the hot water HW from the temperature sensor 8 and determines whether the hot water temperature is detected as 92°C (S305). The hot water temperature of 92°C is an example of the reference temperature Tref.

[0134] When the hot water temperature is detected to be 92°C (YES in S305), the control unit 12 starts the timer 16 (S306) and monitors the measured time t. The control unit 12 determines whether the boiling time tm has elapsed based on the measured time t of the timer 16 (S307).

[0135] If the boiling time tm has not elapsed (NO in S307), the high-temperature heating mode is maintained. On the other hand, if the boiling time tm has elapsed (YES in S307), the operation of the heating device 6 is stopped (S308), and the high-temperature heating mode is ended. At this time, the timer 16 is turned off, and the measured time t is cleared.

[0136] In this high-temperature heating mode, before the hot water temperature is detected to be 92°C (NO in S305), the control unit 12 determines whether the hot water temperature has risen within the continuing fixed time tq of 1 minute (S310). If the temperature has risen (NO in S310), the heating operation is in progress, so the process returns to S305 and heating continues.

[0137] On the other hand, if there is no temperature increase (YES in S310), it can be assumed that the high-temperature water hHW has reached a high temperature before boiling, so heating is terminated, and the process proceeds to S308, where the operation of the heating device 6 is stopped.

[0138] <Heating operation and information display> FIG. 17 shows the display of information on hot water control, starting the high-temperature heating mode, controlling it, and stopping it.

[0139] 17A is an example of the presentation of the hot water display G1 by the hot water lamp 72. This hot water display G1 is presented in the hot water control 18. In this case, the hot water lamp 72 is lit in green.

[0140] 17B shows an example of the high-temperature heating mode start indication G2 and the temperature rising indication G3 using the high-temperature lamp 74. This high-temperature heating mode start indication G2 and the temperature rising indication G3 are displayed when the high-temperature heating mode starts and is controlled. In this case, the hot water lamp 72 is off and the high-temperature lamp 74 is lit orange.

[0141] 17C is an example of the presentation of a high temperature indication G4 by the high temperature lamp 74. This high temperature indication G4 is presented in the hot water control 18. In this case, the high temperature lamp 74 is lit in green.

[0142] 17D is an example of the display of the hot water display G1 when the temperature of the high-temperature water hHW drops. This hot water display G1 is displayed in the hot water control 18. In this case, the high temperature lamp 74 is off and the hot water lamp 72 is lit in green.

[0143] <Effects of the Example> According to this embodiment, one of the following effects can be obtained. (1) In hot water control, the hot water temperature of the water server 2 can be controlled within a temperature range of, for example, 80°C to 89°C, whereas in high temperature heating control, by operating the high temperature heating mode switch 10 to cause the heating device 6 to start reheating, the water can be boiled to a high temperature within a temperature range of, for example, 90°C to 93°C.

[0144] (2) In the high-temperature heating control, if there is no temperature rise in the high-temperature water hHW in the hot water tank 4 within a continuous period of, for example, one minute, the operation of the heating device 6 can be stopped even within the boiling time tm, thereby avoiding excessive heating or boiling of the high-temperature water hHW.

[0145] (3) Since the temperature rise of the high-temperature water hHW can be regulated to a predetermined value or less, the time required to boil the high-temperature water hHW can be shortened, the high-temperature water hHW can be provided quickly, and power consumption can be reduced.

[0146] (4) The transition from hot water HW to high temperature water hHW can be easily recognized by the display of information, making it possible to realize a highly convenient water server system.

[0147] Other Embodiments (1) The water server 2 of the present disclosure may acquire GPS information and display the boiling temperature information of the hot water HW together with altitude information indicating the altitude of the installation location.

[0148] (2) Water server 2 may be equipped with an atmospheric pressure sensor to acquire atmospheric pressure information, and this atmospheric pressure information may be used to calculate the boiling temperature of water in the installation environment and display this boiling temperature information. In other words, if a means for acquiring atmospheric pressure information such as an atmospheric pressure sensor is used, the boiling temperature of water can be acquired directly, eliminating the need to acquire altitude information.

[0149] (3) The boiling temperature of water may be calculated using both atmospheric pressure information and outside air temperature information. Using both atmospheric pressure information and outside air temperature information can improve the accuracy of calculating the boiling temperature.

[0150] (4) In the embodiment, the function of the high-temperature heating mode switch 10 is assigned to a long press of the hot water button 80 , but the high-temperature heating mode switch 10 may be provided separately from the hot water button 80 .

[0151] As explained 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 as set forth in the claims or disclosed in the description for carrying out the invention. It goes without saying that such modifications and changes are included within the scope of the present disclosure. [Industrial Applicability]

[0152] The present disclosure provides a highly convenient water server that can easily produce water at a temperature higher than that of hot water and can boil water to a high temperature without causing boiling or abnormal vibrations. [Explanation of symbols]

[0153] 2. Water Server 4. Hot water tank 6 Heating device 7 Heating drive unit 8, 24, 87 Temperature sensors 10 High temperature heating mode switch 12 Control Unit 14 Information presentation section 16 Timer 18 Hot water control 20 High temperature heating control 22 Information presentation control 25 Boiling time database 26 Boiling time calculation control 28 Server Chassis 29 Water container placement section 30 Operation panel 30-1 Lamp display 30-2 Button operation section 32 Hot and cold water filling cover 34 Water receiving part 36 Water inlet 38 Pouring spout 40 Drainage section 52 processors 54 Storage section 56 I / O 60 Cooling device 61 Cooling drive unit 64 Cold water solenoid valve 65 Hot water solenoid valve 67 Chilled water solenoid valve drive unit 68 Hot water solenoid valve drive unit 69 Cold Water Lamp 70 Weak Cool Lamp 72 Hot Water Lamp 74 High Temperature 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 100 water containers 102 Cold water tank 106 Water supply nozzle part 108 Top opening 110 Valve mechanism 112 On-off valve 114 Opening and closing arm 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

Claims

1. A water server equipped with a water supply function including hot water, a hot water tank for storing the hot water; a heating device that heats the hot water in the hot water tank; a hot water switch to which a high temperature heating mode start function is assigned, which starts high temperature heating mode operation when pressed and held; a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the hot water; a control unit that transitions to the high-temperature heating mode when the hot water switch is pressed and held down, and starts the heating device, and if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is equal to or higher than a reference temperature, stops the operation of the heating device when the operation time of the heating device reaches the boiling time, or if the detected temperature is lower than the reference temperature, determines whether the temperature of the hot water has risen within a predetermined time, and if there is a temperature rise of the hot water, continues the operation of the heating device, and if there is no temperature rise of the hot water, ends the operation of the heating device; A water server equipped with:

2. The water server according to claim 1, further comprising a high temperature mode display unit that can be switched in the high temperature heating mode from a display indicating that the heating device is operating to a display indicating that high temperature hot water can be supplied.

3. A method for controlling a water server having a water supply function including hot water, storing the hot water in a hot water tank; A step of starting a high-temperature heating mode operation by pressing and holding a hot water switch and heating the hot water in the hot water tank by a heating device; acquiring temperature information from a temperature sensor that detects the hot water temperature of the hot water tank; A method for controlling a water server, comprising the steps of: switching to the high-temperature heating mode when the hot water switch is pressed and held down, and activating the heating device; if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is equal to or higher than a reference temperature, stopping the operation of the heating device when the operating time of the heating device reaches the boiling time; or, if the detected temperature is less than the reference temperature, determining whether the temperature of the hot water has risen within a predetermined time, and if there has been a temperature rise in the hot water, continuing the operation of the heating device; and terminating the operation of the heating device if there has been no temperature rise in the hot water.

4. The method for controlling a water server according to claim 3, further comprising the step of switching from a display indicating that the heating device is operating in the high-temperature heating mode to a display indicating that high-temperature hot water supply is possible.

5. A program to be executed by a computer, A function that starts high-temperature heating mode operation by pressing and holding the hot water switch, and heats the hot water in the hot water tank with the heating device; a function of acquiring temperature information from a temperature sensor that detects the hot water temperature of the hot water tank; a function of switching to the high-temperature heating mode when the hot water switch is pressed and held down, and activating the heating device; if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is equal to or higher than a reference temperature, stopping the operation of the heating device when the operation time of the heating device reaches the boiling time; or, if the detected temperature is lower than the reference temperature, determining whether the temperature of the hot water has risen within a predetermined time, and if there is a temperature rise in the hot water, continuing the operation of the heating device; and, if there is no temperature rise in the hot water, terminating the operation of the heating device; A program that causes the computer to execute the above.

6. The program according to claim 5, further causing the computer to execute a function of switching from a display indicating that the heating device is operating in the high-temperature heating mode to a display indicating that high-temperature hot water supply is possible.

7. A recording medium storing the program according to claim 5 or 6.

8. A hot water tank for storing hot water, a heating device that heats the hot water in the hot water tank; a hot water switch to which a high temperature heating mode start function is assigned, which starts high temperature heating mode operation when pressed and held; A control device for a water server having a water supply function including the hot water, comprising: a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the hot water; A control device for a water server, comprising a control unit that transitions to the high-temperature heating mode when the hot water switch is pressed and held down, and stops the operation of the heating device when the operating time of the heating device reaches the boiling time if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is equal to or higher than a reference temperature, or determines whether the temperature of the hot water has risen within a specified time, and if there is an increase in the temperature of the hot water, continues the operation of the heating device, or terminates the operation of the heating device if there is no increase in the temperature of the hot water.

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