Power feeding method and power feeding device

Abstract

To provide a power supply method and a power supply device capable of DC output by AC power supply or battery output in power failure.SOLUTION: The power supply method is capable of switching between DC power supply (a power supply part 4 and a DC stabilization part 12) by AC power supply (an AC source 8) and battery output (the power supply part 4 and a battery power supply holding part 16) in power failure of the AC power supply. At the time of AC power supply, the first power supply section (the power supply section 4 and the DC stabilization section 12) generates a DC output and supplies the DC output, and when the AC power supply is interrupted, the operation of the start switch (the start button 10) is received, the first power supply section is switched to the second power supply section by the operation of the start switch, and the battery output is supplied from the second power supply section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a power supply method and a power supply device that can supply power other than AC power, such as battery power, during a power outage of AC power supply. [Background technology]

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

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

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-138764 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] By the way, when batteries are used to power a water dispenser, it is necessary to constantly manage the battery charge in preparation for disasters, and even if the cooling device is stopped in the event of a disaster, using a battery to power the electric pump poses the problem of battery depletion. If the battery runs out, it will be difficult to charge it, and it is necessary to consider the possibility that the water dispenser will become unusable.

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

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

[0008] In view of the above problems and findings, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a power supply method and a power supply device that are capable of DC output by AC power supply or battery output during a power outage. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to achieve the above object, one aspect of the power supply method disclosed herein is a power supply method capable of switching between DC output (power supply unit 4, DC stabilization unit 12) by AC power supply (AC source 8) and battery output (power supply unit 4, battery power supply holding unit 16) during a power outage of the AC power supply, the power supply method including: a step of generating a DC output from a first power supply unit during AC power supply and supplying the DC output; a step of accepting operation of a start-up switch (start-up button 10) when a power outage occurs in the AC power supply, switching from the first power supply unit to a second power supply unit by operating the start-up switch, and supplying the battery output from the second power supply unit; and a step of canceling the battery output from the second power supply unit when the power outage of the AC power supply is lifted, if the second power supply unit is outputting a battery output, switching from the second power supply unit to the first power supply unit, and automatically supplying the DC output from the first power supply unit.

[0010] The power supply method includes the steps of: during AC power supply, disabling operation of the start switch and supplying the DC output from the first power supply unit to a first load; when a power outage occurs in the AC power supply, switching from the first load to a second load that can operate on battery output based on operation of the start switch, and supplying the battery output of the second power supply unit to the second load; and when the power outage in the AC power supply is restored, if battery output is being performed from the second power supply unit to the second load, canceling the battery output to the second load, switching from the second load to the first load, and automatically supplying the DC output from the first power supply unit to the first load.

[0011] The power supply method includes a step of, when a power outage occurs in the AC power supply, suspending a large current load selected from a first load based on operation of the start switch, selecting a load from the first load that can operate on the battery output, including it in a second load, and providing the battery output.

[0012] The power supply method includes the steps of: the first power supply unit generating the DC output from the AC power supply and detecting a power outage of the AC power supply or the AC power supply; the first power supply unit starting the battery output by operating the start-up switch when the first power supply unit detects the power outage of the AC power supply; and the steps of a control unit receiving the DC output from the first power supply unit, maintaining the DC output of the first power supply unit, and, when the AC power supply is out of power, causing the second power supply unit to generate the battery output in response to operation of the start-up switch, and maintaining the battery output during the power outage of the AC power supply.

[0013] The power supply method includes a step in which the control unit outputs a battery output cancellation signal when a predetermined time has elapsed since activation by the activation switch has begun, thereby canceling the operation of the second power supply unit.

[0014] The power supply method includes a step in which a control unit outputs power supply information of the DC output by the first power supply unit during the AC power supply, outputs power outage information indicating the power outage of the AC power supply during a power outage of the AC power supply, or generates battery power supply information indicating the battery output during a power outage of the AC power supply, and a step in which an information presentation unit presents the power supply information, the power outage information, or the battery power supply information.

[0015] In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the power supply device of the present disclosure, in the power supply method, the power supply device is capable of switching between DC power supply via AC power supply and battery output during a power outage of the AC power supply, and includes: a first power supply unit that generates a DC output during AC power supply and supplies the DC output; a start-up switch; a second power supply unit that accepts operation of the start-up switch when a power outage occurs in the AC power supply and is switched from the first power supply unit by operation of the start-up switch to supply the battery output; and a control unit that, when the power outage in the AC power supply is lifted, if the second power supply unit is outputting a battery output, cancels the battery output, switches from the second power supply unit to the first power supply unit, and automatically supplies the DC output from the first power supply unit.

[0016] The power supply device includes a first load to which the DC output is supplied from the first power supply unit while the operation of the start switch is disabled during the AC power supply, and a second load to which the battery output of the second power supply unit is supplied, switched from the first load based on the operation of the start switch, when a power outage of the AC power supply occurs, and to which the battery output of the second power supply unit is supplied, when the power outage of the AC power supply is lifted, if battery output from the second power supply unit to the second load is in progress, the control unit cancels the battery output to the second load and switches from the second load to the first load, and automatically supplies the DC output from the first power supply unit to the first load.

[0017] In the power supply device, when the AC power supply is interrupted, the control unit selects a large current load from the first loads and suspends it based on operation of the start switch, and selects a load from the first loads that can operate on the battery output, includes it in the second load, and outputs the battery power.

[0018] The power supply device includes a power failure detection unit that detects the AC power supply received by the first power supply unit or a power failure of the AC power supply, and when the power failure detection unit detects a power failure of the AC power supply, the control unit accepts operation of the start-up switch, starts the battery output of the second power supply unit by operating the start-up switch, receives the DC output from the first power supply unit, maintains the DC output of the first power supply unit, and, in the event of a power failure of the AC power supply, generates the DC output from the battery output from the second power supply unit in response to operation of the start-up switch, and maintains the battery output during the power failure of the AC power supply. The power supply device includes a battery, a battery power supply holding unit that holds the battery output from the battery based on operation of the start switch, and a battery power supply release unit that releases the battery output held by the battery power supply holding unit when the control unit sends a battery power supply release signal. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to the present disclosure, any of the following effects can be obtained. (1) In the event of a power outage in the AC power supply, the load can be powered by a battery, and the load can be operated by battery power. This improves the convenience of power supply for operating the load and increases the flexibility of power supply to the load.

[0020] (2) Powered devices can be used with batteries not only during power outages due to bad weather, but also during power outages caused by power system maintenance, or when power supply is cut off due to moving a powered device such as a water dispenser to a location without an electrical outlet.

[0021] (3) When powered by battery, if the powered device does not operate for a certain continuous period of time, the battery power supply can be terminated. This allows the operating functions of the powered device to be prioritized while shortening the power supply time, suppressing battery consumption, and extending battery life. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

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

[0023] First Embodiment 1 shows a water server 2 according to a first embodiment of the power supply method or power supply device of the present disclosure. The configuration shown in FIG. 1 is an example, and the present disclosure is not limited to such a configuration.

[0024] This water server 2 includes a power supply unit 4 and is capable of normal operation when powered by AC (hereinafter referred to as "normal mode"), operation during an AC power outage (hereinafter simply referred to as "power outage"), and operation using battery 6 (hereinafter referred to as "power outage mode"). This power supply unit 4 is an example of a power supply device disclosed herein. Normal mode includes all operations based on AC power supply, including hot water generation and pouring, and cold water generation and pouring. In contrast, power outage mode includes operations based on battery power supply that allow at least pouring cold water while minimizing battery 6 consumption.

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

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

[0027] When AC power is supplied, DC stabilization unit 12 operates to generate a stabilized DC output. This DC stabilization unit 12 includes a full-wave rectification circuit, a smoothing circuit, a stabilization circuit, etc., and generates a stabilized DC output by full-wave rectifying the AC and smoothing and stabilizing it. Therefore, when AC power is supplied, power supply unit 4 forms a stabilized DC power supply using DC stabilization unit 12, and this stabilized DC output is supplied to control unit 20. At this time, normal mode is entered.

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

[0029] After a power outage of the AC power source 8, the battery power supply maintaining unit 16 starts up from a hibernation state by pressing the start button 10, and maintains the battery power supply. When this battery power supply is maintained, the device enters a power outage mode. In response to this, the battery power supply canceling unit 18 cancels the battery power supply upon receiving a battery power supply cancel signal Soff from the control unit 20. During a power outage, the power supply unit 4 and control unit 20 are in a hibernation state before starting up by pressing the start button 10 and after the battery power supply is canceled.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0042] Control of information presentation 20-8: The control unit 20 presents information relating to the water injection operation to the information presentation unit 25 in the normal mode or power outage mode.

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

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

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

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

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

[0048] In the power supply control, the above control functions can be realized by, for example, processing procedure 1-1 (FIG. 3), processing procedure 1-2 (FIG. 4), and the like.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0059] When the start button 10 is operated to start the device (YES in S115), the device enters power outage mode (S116), and the device monitors the water injection operation by determining whether or not a water injection operation is being performed (S117). If a water injection operation is not being performed (YES in S117), the device measures the elapsed time Mt of battery power supply (S118). The device monitors the elapsed time Mt by determining whether the elapsed time Mt is within a threshold value Mth (S119). If the elapsed time Mt is within the threshold value Mth (YES in S119), the power outage mode (battery power supply) is maintained (S116).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0068] (2) During a power outage, the power outage pause unit 21 pauses, thereby reducing the consumption of the battery 6.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

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

[0078] <Water Server 2 Control System> Figure 8 shows an example of a control system for water server 2. 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 assigned the same reference numerals.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0085] The information display unit 25 includes, for example, a cold water lamp 68, 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 68, 70, 72, 74, 75, and 76 is driven by a lamp driver 78, which receives a driving output from the I / O 56.

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

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

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

[0089] 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 104.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0100] 10A, this raw water W pushes down the on-off valve 112 of the valve mechanism 110. The raw water W that passes through the on-off valve 112 falls into the recess 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 104.

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

[0102] When the hot water tank 104 is full, the water supply from the cold water tank 102 becomes dominant, and the water level in the cold water tank 102 rises. This rise in the water level causes the float 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.

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

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

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

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

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

[0108] <Power supply control processing procedure> 12 shows the procedure for power supply control. This power supply control includes an AC detection step (S201), a power supply unit 4 control step (S202), a normal mode control step (S203), a battery power supply release signal Soff output step (S204), a battery power supply release step (S205), a start-up step (S206), a power outage mode control step (S207), a hot water button 80 press step (S208), a cold water button 79 press step (S209), and a measuring step of elapsed time Mt (S300). The process includes a step of monitoring the elapsed time Mt (S210), a step of monitoring the elapsed time Mt (S211), a step of initializing the elapsed time Mt (S212, S216), a step of opening the hot water solenoid valve 65 (S213), a step of releasing the hot water button 80 (S214), a step of closing the hot water solenoid valve 65 (S215), a step of opening the cold water solenoid valve 64 (S217), a step of releasing the cold water button 79 (S218), and a step of closing the cold water solenoid valve 64 (S219).

[0109] The AC detection unit 14 detects whether AC power is being supplied (S201), and when AC power is being supplied (YES in S201), power supply control is executed (S202) from the power supply unit 4 to the DC stabilization unit 12, the control unit 20, the cooling device 60, the hot water heater 62, and other large current loads 22 (FIG. 1). In this power supply control, control is performed in normal mode (S203).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0122] Operation C is a sequential operation of briefly pressing the lock / release button 84 and then continuously pressing the hot water button 80. After briefly pressing the lock / release button 84 to release the lock, the hot water button 80 is continuously pressed for any desired length of time. In this operation C, hot water can be poured in normal mode, and cold water can be poured in power outage mode.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0136] In the power outage mode, the cold water lamp 68, the hot water lamp 72, and the lock lamp 76 are used. The lighting modes of the cold water lamp 68 and the hot water lamp 72 are selected under the control of the control unit 20, and when water can be poured, a water pouring ready indication is displayed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0146] (4) Because the water dispenser can be powered by a battery and can display corresponding information, it can be used as a highly convenient water dispenser2 not only in emergency situations such as disasters but also in everyday life. [Example]

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

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

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

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

[0151] <Effects of Example 1> According to the first embodiment, any of the following effects can be obtained. (1) Such an AC detector 14 can instantly detect whether the AC source 8 is supplying power or has experienced a power outage.

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

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

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

[0155] <Maintaining battery power supply> The battery power supply holding unit 16 is equipped with a switch circuit consisting of a self-holding relay 156 and transistors 158 and 160. Diode 165 is an example of a back electromotive force absorbing element. When the start button 10 is pressed and closed during a power outage of the AC source 8, battery voltage from the battery 6 is applied to the relay coil 162 of the relay 156, closing the contact 164 of the relay 156 and turning on the transistors 158 and 160. This means that power outage mode has begun.

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

[0157] <Battery power off> Battery power feed release unit 18 has a switch circuit made up of transistor 166. Transistor 166 is maintained in the OFF state before the output of battery power feed release signal Soff from control unit 20. In other words, when battery power feed release signal Soff is output, transistor 166 turns ON, causing the conduction current of transistor 166 to flow through resistor 168. As a result, the base of transistor 158 goes low, and both transistors 158 and 160 turn OFF, thereby releasing the battery power feed hold by battery power hold unit 16.

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

[0159] (2) The battery power supply release unit 18 includes the transistor 166 and can utilize the transistors 158 and 160 of the battery power supply hold unit 16, thereby simplifying the circuit configuration. [Example]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0169] <Other embodiments> (1) In the above embodiment, the operational patterns shown in A through D of Figure 5 are not limited to these operational patterns. For example, measurement of the elapsed time Mt may be stopped at the end of the water pouring operation, the threshold Mth may be canceled at that time, a new threshold Mth may be set at that time, and measurement of the elapsed time Mt without the water pouring operation may be started. This configuration avoids draining the battery 6 due to the continued elapsed time Mt without the water pouring operation and avoids the hassle of repeatedly operating the start button 10.

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

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

[0172] 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]

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

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

Claims

1. A power supply method capable of switching between DC output by AC power supply and battery output during a power outage of the AC power supply, When powered by AC, the first power supply generates a DC output and supplies the DC output; receiving an operation of a start switch when the AC power supply is interrupted, and switching from the first power supply unit to a second power supply unit by the operation of the start switch, and supplying battery output from the second power supply unit; when the AC power supply is restored from the power outage, if the second power supply unit is outputting a battery output, the battery output is stopped, the second power supply unit is switched to the first power supply unit, and the DC output is automatically supplied from the first power supply unit; A power supply method including:

2. during the AC power supply, disabling the operation of the start switch and supplying the DC output from the first power supply unit to a first load; when the AC power supply is interrupted, switching from the first load to a second load operable by a battery output based on an operation of the start switch, and supplying the battery output of the second power supply unit to the second load; when the power outage of the AC power supply is released, if a battery output from the second power supply unit to the second load is in progress, releasing the battery output to the second load, switching from the second load to the first load, and automatically supplying the DC output from the first power supply unit to the first load; The power supply method according to claim 1 , comprising:

3. 2. The power supply method according to claim 1, further comprising the steps of: when a power outage occurs in the AC power supply, stopping a large current load selected from a first load based on operation of the start switch; selecting a load from the first load that can operate on the battery output, including it in a second load, and supplying the battery output.

4. the first power supply generating the DC output from the AC power supply and detecting a power outage of the AC power supply or the AC power supply; a step of starting the battery output by operating the start switch when the first power supply unit detects the power outage of the AC power supply; a control unit receiving the DC output from the first power supply unit, maintaining the DC output from the first power supply unit, and generating the battery output from the second power supply unit in response to operation of the start switch during a power outage of the AC power supply, and maintaining the battery output during the power outage of the AC power supply; The power supply method according to claim 1 , comprising:

5. The power supply method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of: outputting a battery output cancellation signal when a predetermined time has elapsed since activation by the activation switch is initiated, thereby canceling the operation of the second power supply unit.

6. a control unit outputting power supply information of the DC output by the first power supply unit during the AC power supply, outputting power failure information representing the AC power supply failure during a power failure of the AC power supply, or generating battery power supply information representing the battery output during a power failure of the AC power supply; an information presentation unit presenting the power supply information, the power outage information, or the battery power supply information; The power supply method according to claim 1 , comprising:

7. A power supply device capable of switching between DC power supply by AC power supply and battery output during a power outage of the AC power supply, a first power supply unit that generates a DC output when AC power is supplied and supplies the DC output; The start switch and a second power supply unit that receives operation of the start switch when the AC power supply is interrupted, and is switched from the first power supply unit to supply battery output in response to the operation of the start switch; a control unit that, when the power outage of the AC power supply is released and if the second power supply unit is outputting a battery, cancels the battery output, switches from the second power supply unit to the first power supply unit, and automatically supplies the DC output from the first power supply unit; A power supply device including:

8. a first load to which the DC output is supplied from the first power supply unit while the operation of the start switch is disabled during the AC power supply; a second load to which the battery output of the second power supply unit is supplied in response to operation of the start switch when the AC power supply is interrupted; and and when the power outage of the AC power supply is released, if a battery output from the second power supply unit to the second load is in progress, the control unit cancels the battery output to the second load, switches from the second load to the first load, and automatically supplies the DC output from the first power supply unit to the first load.

9. 8. The power supply device according to claim 7, wherein, when the AC power supply is interrupted, the control unit selects a large current load from among the first loads and suspends the load based on operation of the start switch, and selects a load from the first loads that can operate on the battery output, includes the load in a second load, and supplies the battery output.

10. a power failure detection unit that detects a power failure of the AC power supply received by the first power supply unit or the AC power supply, wherein when the power failure detection unit detects a power failure of the AC power supply, the control unit accepts operation of the start switch and starts the battery output of the second power supply unit by operating the start switch; 8. The power supply device according to claim 7, wherein the power supply device receives the DC output from the first power supply unit, maintains the DC output of the first power supply unit, and, in the event of a power outage in the AC power supply, generates the DC output from the battery output at the second power supply unit in response to operation of the start switch, and maintains the battery output during the power outage in the AC power supply.

11. Batteries and a battery power supply holding unit that holds the battery output from the battery based on operation of the start switch; a battery power supply release unit that releases the battery output held by the battery power supply holding unit when the control unit sends a battery power supply release signal; The power supply device according to claim 7 , comprising:

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