Kitchen systems, hot water supply methods and programs

Abstract

This system provides a kitchen system, hot water supply method, and program that utilizes both a hot water storage unit and a hot water heater to accommodate the diverse hot water supply patterns that can occur in the equipment. [Solution] The system includes a device (noodle boiler 4) that generates a hot water supply demand, which includes any of the following hot water supply modes: high-flow hot water supply, low-flow hot water supply, intermittent hot water supply, or continuous hot water supply; a hot water storage unit (6) equipped with a hot water storage tank (24) that dispenses water stored in the hot water storage tank to meet the hot water supply demand of the device; a water heater (8); and a control unit (hot water supply system control unit 270) that controls the water heater based on the hot water supply demand.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to, for example, a kitchen system, a hot water supply method, and a program that respond to various hot water supply demands and water supply demands such as high-temperature water and low-temperature water required by devices such as cooking appliances such as noodle cookers, food washers, and dishwashers.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a stored hot water supply device that supplies hot water stored in a hot water storage tank according to the hot water supply demand. Regarding this stored hot water supply device, when the temperature of the upper layer water in the hot water storage tank is lower than the set temperature, it is known to supply the hot water heated by the heat exchange unit of the heat source device to the hot water utilization destination (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in cooking appliances that require hot water for cooking, such as noodle cookers used in restaurants, there are required specific hot water supply forms that are not for general hot water supply demands, such as intermittent hot water supply in a short time. The same applies to food washers used for washing food and dishwashers used for washing dishes.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a kitchen system, a hot water supply method, and a program that combine a hot water storage unit and a hot water supply device and respond to various hot water supply demands and hot water supply demands in the form of hot water supply that occur in the device, based on the above problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To achieve the above objective, according to one aspect of the kitchen system of this disclosure, the system comprises: equipment that generates a hot water supply demand including any of high-flow hot water supply, low-flow hot water supply, intermittent hot water supply, or continuous hot water supply; a hot water storage unit that receives water in the lower section and high-temperature water in the upper section, has a hot water storage tank that can store low-temperature water on the lower section side and the high-temperature water on the upper section side, and dispenses the stored water to meet the hot water supply demand of the equipment; a water heater to which the stored water is supplied and which generates the high-temperature water to be supplied to the hot water storage unit; and a control unit that controls the water heater based on the hot water supply demand.

[0007] In this kitchen system, the water heater may be a gas water heater that heats the low-temperature water using the heat of combustion of fuel gas.

[0008] In this kitchen system, a temperature control unit may also be provided to adjust the temperature of the discharged water to below a set temperature when the stored water is discharged.

[0009] In this kitchen system, the system may further include a schedule information setting unit for setting schedule information that includes one or more of the hot water supply type, hot water supply time, hot water supply amount, or hot water supply temperature of the equipment, and the control unit may control the water heater or the hot water storage unit according to the schedule information.

[0010] In this kitchen system, the control unit may further define a first mode for controlling hot water output based on the hot water output capacity of the water heater, and a second mode for controlling hot water output based on the hot water output capacity using both the water heater and the hot water storage tank. When supplying hot water to the equipment, the first mode may be selected if the amount of high-temperature water stored in the hot water storage unit is less than a predetermined amount, and the second mode may be selected if the amount of high-temperature water stored is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount.

[0011] In this kitchen system, the system further includes a first pipeline that carries the stored water from the hot water storage unit to the water heater, a second pipeline that carries the high-temperature water generated by the water heater to the hot water storage unit, and a water flow sensor that detects the amount of water supplied to the hot water storage unit, and the control unit may control the flow rate of the stored water from the hot water storage unit to the water heater according to the flow rate detected by the water flow sensor.

[0012] In this kitchen system, a flow control valve may be provided in the hot water outlet passage of the hot water storage unit, and when the second mode is selected, the control unit may control the flow rate through the flow control valve to be less than or equal to the maximum water outlet flow rate of the first mode.

[0013] To achieve the above objective, according to one aspect of the hot water supply method of this disclosure, the method includes the steps of: generating a hot water supply demand in which the equipment generates a hot water supply demand that includes any of the following in terms of hot water supply mode: high flow rate hot water supply, low flow rate hot water supply, intermittent hot water supply, or continuous hot water supply; responding to the hot water supply demand of the equipment by discharging stored water from a hot water storage unit that receives water in the lower layer and high temperature water in the upper layer, and storing low temperature water on the lower layer side and the high temperature water on the upper layer side; and controlling a water heater or hot water storage unit that generates the high temperature water by receiving the stored water from the hot water storage unit to respond to the hot water supply demand.

[0014] In this hot water supply method, the method may further include a step of adjusting the temperature of the water being discharged from the hot water storage unit to a set temperature or lower.

[0015] To achieve the above objective, according to one aspect of the program of this disclosure, a program to be executed by a computer includes a function to acquire information on the hot water demand of equipment that generates a hot water demand, including high-flow hot water supply, low-flow hot water supply, intermittent hot water supply, and continuous hot water supply in its hot water supply mode, and a function to control a hot water heater or the hot water storage unit, which is supplied with stored water from the hot water storage unit to generate high-temperature water in response to the hot water demand.

[0016] In this program, when discharging the stored water from the hot water storage tank, the computer may be made to execute a function of controlling a temperature adjustment unit that adjusts the water during discharge to a temperature not higher than a set temperature.

Advantages of the Invention

[0017] According to the present disclosure, any of the following advantages can be obtained. (1) It is possible to respond to hot water supply demands from equipment including any of multi-flow hot water supply, low-flow hot water supply, intermittent hot water supply, and continuous hot water supply in the hot water supply mode. (2) It is possible to respond to hot water supply demands such as cooking using high-temperature water, food washing, and dishwashing, and improve the efficiency of kitchen operations. (3) By combining the water discharge from the hot water storage unit according to the hot water supply demand and the hot water generation of the water heater, it is possible to realize an economical hot water supply such as warm water.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a kitchen system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a hot water supply demand database. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a hot water storage unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the relationship between each hot water storage amount of a hot water storage tank and each temperature sensor. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a water heater. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​Figure 10A is a table showing the regulated flow rate (2), and Figure 10B is a diagram showing the hot water supply operation from the second mode to the first mode. [Figure 11] Figure 11A is a table showing the regulated flow rate (3), and Figure 11B is a diagram showing the hot water supply operation from the first mode to the second mode. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the flow rate regulation process. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the process for selecting the operating mode. [Figure 14] Figure 14A shows the settings for the hot water supply mode, and Figure 14B shows the hot water supply operation. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure for the hot water supply mode. [Figure 16] Figure 16A shows the settings for the constant heating mode, and Figure 16B shows the hot water supply operation. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure for the continuous heating mode. [Figure 18] Figure 18A shows the settings for the scheduled operation mode, and Figure 18B shows the hot water supply operation. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure for the scheduled operation mode. [Figure 20] Figure 20A shows the intermittent hot water supply operation, and Figure 20B shows the supply of hot water to the noodle boiler. [Figure 21] Figure 21A shows the settings for the second hot water supply mode according to the second embodiment, and Figure 21B shows the hot water supply operation. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure for the second hot water supply mode. [Figure 23] Figure 23A shows the settings for the tank hot water supply mode according to the third embodiment, and Figure 23B shows the hot water supply operation. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure for the tank hot water supply mode. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure for another tank hot water supply mode according to the fourth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0019] [First Embodiment] <Kitchen System 2> Figure 1 shows a kitchen system 2 according to the first embodiment. The configuration shown in Figure 1 is an example, and this disclosure is not limited to such a configuration.

[0020] This kitchen system 2 includes a noodle boiler 4, a hot water storage unit 6, a water heater 8, and a remote control device 10. The hot water supply demand from the noodle boiler 4 is met by the combined use of the hot water storage unit 6 and the water heater 8, providing hot water in various forms.

[0021] <Noodle boiling machine 4> Noodle boiling machine 4 is an example of equipment that generates hot water demand, including high-flow hot water supply, low-flow hot water supply, intermittent hot water supply, and continuous hot water supply. High-flow hot water supply, low-flow hot water supply, intermittent hot water supply, and continuous hot water supply are met by the equipment's hot water supply demand with hot water such as high-temperature water HHW and low-temperature water LHW. High-flow hot water supply is an example of meeting the demand for high-flow hot water supply with high-temperature water HHW, low-flow hot water supply is an example of meeting the demand for low-flow hot water supply with high-temperature water HHW or low-temperature water LHW, intermittent hot water supply is an example of meeting the demand for intermittent hot water supply with high-temperature water HHW or low-temperature water LHW, and continuous hot water supply is an example of meeting the demand for continuous hot water supply with high-temperature water HHW.

[0022] The noodle boiler 4 is equipped with a tank 14 on the main unit 12. A heater 15 is installed in the tank 14, and a water inlet 16 and a drain outlet 18 are installed at the bottom, and a water supply nozzle 20 is installed at the top. A water supply control valve 21 is installed in the pipeline from the water inlet 16 to the water supply nozzle 20. The heat output of the heater 15 and the opening degree of the water supply control valve 21 are controlled by the noodle boiler control unit 23.

[0023] In response to the hot water demand generated by the noodle boiler 4, hot water HW adjusted to the set temperature is supplied to the tank 14 from the hot water storage unit 6. The heater 15 heats the hot water HW using electric heating or combustion heat, and the hot water HW in the tank 14 is heated to the set cooking temperature. As a result, ingredients such as noodles are cooked in the tank 14. Used hot water HW in the tank 14 is discharged from the drain port 18.

[0024] The hot water supply demand for the noodle boiler 4 changes depending on the store's operating style, season, and busy periods, and also varies throughout the day's operating hours, including the supply of hot water HW to the tank 14 at the start of business, replacement of hot water HW during business hours, and intermittent hot water supply. A variety of hot water supply demands arise, ranging from low-flow to high-flow hot water supply, continuous to intermittent hot water supply, and even hot water interruption, based on the tank 14 as a unit, intermittent hot water supply during cooking, and changes in the amount of hot water supplied depending on the frequency of use. Therefore, this kitchen system 2 is required to meet the diverse hot water supply demands from the noodle boiler 4.

[0025] In this kitchen system 2, in response to the hot water demand from the noodle boiler 4, water W is supplied to the hot water storage unit 6 from the water inlet 22. The high-temperature water HHW dispensed from the hot water storage tank 24 is adjusted to the hot water set temperature HW and then supplied to the tank 14 via the hot water supply passage 28 from the hot water inlet 26. At this time, the low-temperature water LHW from the hot water storage unit 6 flows from the hot water supply outlet 30 to the supply pipe 32 and enters the water heater 8 from the water inlet 34. The supply pipe 32 is an example of a first pipeline that supplies the low-temperature water LHW from the hot water storage tank 24 to the water heater 8. The water heater 8 is an example of a heat source that heats the low-temperature water LHW to high-temperature water HHW by heat exchange, and in this disclosure, a gas water heater is used that heats the heat of the combustion exhaust of fuel gas G to the low-temperature water LHW.

[0026] When low-temperature water LHW enters the water heater 8, combustion of fuel gas G begins, and the combustion exhaust heats up the low-temperature water LHW to above the hot water storage set temperature through heat exchange, generating high-temperature water HHW. This high-temperature water HHW flows from the hot water outlet 36 to the return pipe 38 and enters the hot water storage unit 6 from the hot water storage return outlet 40. The return pipe 38 is an example of a second pipeline that supplies high-temperature water HHW to the hot water storage tank 24.

[0027] The remote control device 10 is connected to the noodle boiler 4, the hot water storage unit 6, and the water heater 8 by signal lines 42-1, 42-2, and 42-3. Therefore, coordinated control is performed between the noodle boiler 4, the hot water storage unit 6, the water heater 8, and the remote control device 10. This coordinated control can be disabled, and the noodle boiler 4 and the hot water supply system of the hot water storage unit 6 and water heater 8 may be configured to operate independently.

[0028] <Patterns of hot water demand for noodle boiling machine 4> Depending on the store where it is installed and its business model, a variety of hot water supply needs arise for the noodle boiling machine 4, as illustrated below.

[0029] (1) When operating the noodle boiler 4, after cleaning the tank 14, a large volume of hot water is required to fill the empty tank 14 with high-temperature water HHW. (2) After the tank 14 is full, intermittent hot water supply is provided to meet the hot water demand of the noodle boiler 4 which is in operation. (3) Efficient hot water supply to prevent excessive heat storage in the hot water storage tank 24 when hot water demand decreases. (4) Scheduled hot water supply tailored to business operations and hot water demand (5) Hot water supply demands including high-flow hot water supply, low-flow hot water supply, intermittent hot water supply, continuous hot water supply, and other combinations thereof.

[0030] <Hot Water Demand Database 46> Figure 2 shows a hot water supply demand database 46 (hereinafter referred to as "hot water supply demand DB 46") representing the hot water supply demand of the noodle boiler 4. This hot water supply demand DB 46 is an example of the hot water supply demand database of this disclosure that represents the hot water supply demand. This hot water supply demand DB 46 stores demand information that represents the hot water supply demand, including intermittent hot water supply in which the noodle boiler 4 alternately supplies hot water and stops supplying hot water.

[0031] This hot water demand DB46 includes, as an example, a hot water flow rate section 48, a hot water volume section 50, a hot water type section 52, a hot water temperature section 53, a hot water cycle section 54, and a hot water operation section 56.

[0032] The hot water flow rate unit 48 stores flow rate information that represents, for example, the amount of hot water supplied per minute required by the noodle boiler 4. This flow rate information stores 4.0 liters / minute.

[0033] The hot water supply unit 50 stores hot water supply information that represents the amount of hot water required per hour by the noodle boiler 4. This unit stores a hot water supply of 60 liters / hour.

[0034] The hot water supply mode unit 52 stores hot water supply mode information that represents the type of hot water supply, such as intermittent hot water supply, high-flow hot water supply, low-flow hot water supply, and continuous hot water supply. In this hot water supply mode unit 52, for intermittent hot water supply, hot water supply cycle information is stored that represents a cycle (repeated) of hot water supply with a hot water supply time of 6 seconds and a pause (standby) time of 18 seconds.

[0035] The hot water temperature unit 53 stores temperature information such as the hot water temperature corresponding to the hot water supply type and hot water demand, including intermittent hot water supply, high-flow hot water supply, low-flow hot water supply, and continuous hot water supply, as well as the hot water set temperature.

[0036] The hot water supply cycle unit 54 is configured with a cycle time unit 54-1 and a flow rate unit 54-2. The cycle time unit 54-1 stores time information representing the cycle time. This cycle time stores a cycle time of 24 seconds (= hot water supply time of 6 seconds + waiting time of 18 seconds). The flow rate unit 54-2 stores flow rate information representing the hot water supply flow rate per hot water supply cycle. This hot water supply flow rate stores 0.4 liters / cycle.

[0037] The hot water supply unit 56 is configured with a time-based hot water supply unit 56-1 and an operation count unit 56-2. The time-based hot water supply unit 56-1 stores information on the amount of hot water supplied per hour. In this case, 60 liters is stored.

[0038] The operation count unit 56-2 is configured with settings for the day of operation unit 56-21, the time of operation unit 56-22, the number of operations per hour unit 56-23, the number of operations per day unit 56-24, the number of operations per week unit 56-25, the number of operations per month unit 56-26, the number of operations per year unit 56-27, and so on.

[0039] The operating days section 56-21 stores operating day information, which represents the number of operating days per year. This operating day information stores 365 days. The operating time section 56-22 stores time information, which represents the operating time per day. This operating time stores 11 hours.

[0040] The hourly operation count unit 56-23 stores information representing the number of operations of the water heater 8 per hour, with an example of 150 operations / hour. The daily operation count unit 56-24 stores information representing the number of operations of the water heater 8 per day, with an example of 1,650 operations / day. The weekly operation count unit 56-25 stores information representing the number of operations of the water heater 8 per week, with an example of 1,650 × 7 operations / week. The monthly operation count unit 56-26 stores information representing the number of operations of the water heater 8 per month, with an example of 1,650 × 30 operations / month. The yearly operation count unit 56-27 stores information representing the number of operations of the water heater 8 per year, with an example of 602,250 operations / year.

[0041] <Hot water supply by kitchen system 2 to meet the hot water demand of noodle boiler 4> (1) While the noodle boiler 4 is in operation, the amount of heat stored in the hot water storage tank 24 is minimized, and the combustion operation of the water heater 8 is stopped to improve the efficiency of hot water supply.

[0042] (2) After the heat storage operation of the hot water storage tank 24 is completed, if the water volume sensor 152 does not detect a hot water supply demand from the noodle boiler 4, the heat storage operation of the hot water storage tank 24 will be stopped after a certain period of time has elapsed until the water volume sensor 152 detects a predetermined amount of hot water supply demand.

[0043] (3) Hot water supply to tank 14 is scheduled according to the store's operating schedule, including the hot water supply time and amount. The amount of high-temperature water HHW in storage tank 24 is controlled to match the volume of tank 14.

[0044] (4) For the high-flow hot water supply of the noodle boiler 4, the first mode is hot water supply control based on the output capacity of the water heater 8, and the second mode is hot water supply control based on the output capacity using both the water heater 8 and the hot water storage tank 24, and the hot water is supplied from the hot water storage unit 6 by switching between these modes. In other words, when supplying hot water to an empty tank 14, the water heater 8 supplies hot water at its output capacity (for example, 24), and for the hot water supply of high-temperature water HHW from the hot water storage tank 24, the hot water HHW is adjusted to the hot water supply setting temperature required by the tank 14 and supplied as hot water HW. In this case, it is possible to supply hot water using both the water heater 8 and the hot water storage tank 24 in combination, and it is possible to control the hot water supply capacity (for example, maximum capacity = 24 to 32). When water heater 8 supplies hot water at output capacity = 24, the amount of hot water supplied is 10.9 liters when the water temperature is 5°C and the output temperature is set to 60°C. In contrast, when hot water is controlled at output capacity 32, the amount of hot water supplied is 14.6 liters when the water temperature is 5°C and the output temperature is set to 60°C. Since the capacity of tank 14 is, for example, 40 to 98 liters, increasing the output capacity (for example, 32) speeds up the hot water supply time. However, by controlling the flow rate (= hot water supply control) to be below the regulated flow rate of the maximum output capacity = 24 of water heater 8, corrosion of the system piping can be prevented.

[0045] <Hot water storage unit 6> Figure 3 shows the hot water storage unit 6 and the water heater 8. The hot water storage unit 6 is equipped with a hot water storage tank 24, a water supply channel 136, a first pipe 138-1, a second pipe 138-2, a third pipe 138-3, a hot water outlet channel 140, a temperature control unit 142, and the like.

[0046] The hot water storage tank 24 stores high-temperature water HHW, low-temperature water LHW, or supply water W. For example, it can store 90 liters of hot water to meet hot water demand. The hot water storage tank 24 has a water inlet 144 and a lower water outlet 146 at its bottom, and a hot water return port 148 and a hot water outlet 150 at its top.

[0047] The water supply channel 136 is connected between the water inlet 22 and the water supply inlet 144 of the hot water storage tank 24. The water supply channel 136 is equipped with a water supply check valve 151 to prevent backflow of the water supply W, a water flow sensor 152 to detect the amount of water passing through, a pressure reducing valve 154 to reduce the pressure in the water supply channel 136, a mixed water control valve 156 to control the amount of hot water HHW and water supply W mixed together, and a tank check valve 158 to prevent backflow from the hot water storage tank 24 side. The water flow sensor 152 detects the amount of water supply Wq, which represents the hot water demand.

[0048] Pipeline 138-1 connects the lower water outlet 146 and the hot water supply outlet 30, and pipeline 138-2 connects the hot water return outlet 40 and the hot water return outlet 148. Pipeline 138-3 forms a bypass for pipelines 138-1 and 138-2. Pipeline 138-1 is equipped with a pump 160, and when this pump 160 is driven, it supplies low-temperature water LHW taken from the lower side of the hot water storage tank 24 to the water heater 8.

[0049] Pipelines 138-1 and 138-2 are connected by pipeline 138-3, which branches off from pipeline 138-1, and by a water switching valve 162 installed in the middle of pipeline 138-2. Pipeline 138-3 bypasses the hot water storage tank 24 and, together with pipelines 138-1 and 138-2, forms a circulation path to the water heater 8. In the case of normal hot water supply or storage, the water switching valve 162 is closed on the pipeline 138-3 side, allowing high-temperature water HHW from the water heater 8 to flow to the hot water return port 148. During the warm-up operation or freeze prevention operation of the water heater 8, the water switching valve 162 opens on the pipeline 138-3 side, operating the water heater 8 and circulating the high-temperature water HHW to the water heater 8 and the circulation path.

[0050] The hot water outlet passage 140 is installed between the hot water outlet 150 and the hot water supply outlet 26, and a mixing water control valve 156 of the temperature adjustment unit 142 is installed in the middle of it.

[0051] The temperature control unit 142 is equipped with water control valves 164-1 and 164-2 and a bypass passage 166. Water control valve 164-1 adjusts the amount of water supply W introduced from the water inlet 22 into the water supply passage 136, and water control valve 164-2 adjusts the amount of water supply W flowing from the water supply passage 136 to the bypass passage 166, and adjusts the amount of high-temperature water HHW passing through the hot water outlet passage 140. As a result, the amount of mixture between the high-temperature water HHW flowing into the hot water outlet passage 140 and the water supply W is adjusted, and the high-temperature water HHW is adjusted to the hot water set to the hot water outlet temperature.

[0052] The hot water storage tank 24 is equipped with multiple temperature sensors 168-1, 168-2, 168-3, 168-4, and 168-5 to detect the temperature of the stored hot water. The water supply channel 136 is equipped with a temperature sensor 168-6 to detect the water supply temperature, and the pipe 138-2 is equipped with a temperature sensor 168-7 to detect the temperature of the high-temperature water HHW supplied from the water heater 8. The outlet channel 140 is equipped with a temperature sensor 168-8 to detect the outlet temperature of the hot water storage tank 24, and a temperature sensor 168-9 to detect the mixing temperature. The hot water storage unit 6 is equipped with a temperature sensor 168-10 to detect the outside temperature.

[0053] An overflow pipe 172 is installed between the hot water outlet 140 and the overflow port 170, and an overpressure relief valve 174 with a built-in vacuum breaker is installed in the middle of this overflow pipe 172. The water supply channel 136 is connected to the tank drain port 178 via the tank drain pipe 176.

[0054] <Relationship between the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 24 (Q) and temperature sensors 168-1 to 168-5> Figure 4 shows the relationship between the amount of hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 24 Q and each temperature sensor 168-1 to 168-5. The amount of hot water stored is an example of the storage amount in this disclosure. The hot water storage tank 24 is equipped with multiple temperature sensors, for example, five temperature sensors 168-1, 168-2, ..., 168-5, arranged from the top to the bottom. For example, for a 90-liter hot water storage tank 24, the height positions of the temperature sensors 168-1, 168-2, ..., 168-5 are set as follows. Each height position represents the amount of heat stored by the high-temperature water HHW for the hot water storage amounts Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4, Q5 from the top of the hot water storage tank 24. In other words, each temperature sensor 168-1, 168-2, ..., 168-5 in the hot water storage tank 24 detects the temperature of the stored hot water at the position that specifies the amount of hot water HHW stored. Therefore, the amount of hot water HHW or cold water LHW stored in the hot water storage tank 24 can be determined by the temperature detected by each temperature sensor 168-1, 168-2, ..., 168-5.

[0055] The height of the temperature sensor 168-1 is set to a position where the storage volume Q1 = 10 liters is above the upper limit of the storage volume of the hot water storage tank 24.

[0056] The temperature sensor 168-2 is positioned (height) so that it can identify a hot water storage volume Q2 = 16 liters (= Q1 × 1.6 times) from the upper limit of the hot water storage tank 24. In this example, the hot water storage volumes Q1 and Q2 are set to Q2 = Q1 × 1.6 times as an example, but this disclosure is not limited to such settings.

[0057] The temperature sensor 168-3 is installed at a height that allows it to determine the storage volume Q3 = 35 liters from the upper limit of the storage volume of the hot water storage tank 24. In this example, the storage volumes Q1, Q2, and Q3 are set as follows: Q3 = Q1 × 3.5 > Q2 × 2, but this disclosure is not limited to such settings.

[0058] Installation position (height position) of temperature sensor 168-4: It is set at a position where the hot water storage amount Q4 = 55 liters can be specified from the upper limit of hot water storage in the hot water storage tank 24. In this example, as an example, the hot water storage amounts Q1, Q3, Q4 are set such that Q4 = Q1 × 5.5 < Q3 × 2, but the present disclosure is not limited to such a setting.

[0059] Installation position (height position) of temperature sensor 168-5: It is set at a position where the hot water storage amount Q5 = 75 liters can be specified from the upper limit of hot water storage in the hot water storage tank 24. In this example, as an example, the hot water storage amounts Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4, Q5 are set such that Q5 = Q1 × 7.5 > Q4 + Q2, Q1 × 7.5 > Q3 × 2, but the present disclosure is not limited to such a setting.

[0060] <Hot water supply device 8> FIG. 5 shows an example of the hot water supply device 8. In this hot water supply device 8, a gas combustion part 180, a heat exchange part 182, a temperature adjustment part 184, a drain treatment part 186, etc. are installed.

[0061] A burner 188 capable of multi-stage combustion is installed in the gas combustion part 180, and the combustion exhaust of the fuel gas G by the burner 188 is used for heat exchange of low-temperature water LHW, etc. A gas switching valve 190-1, 190-2, 190-3, a gas proportional valve 194, an original gas solenoid valve 196, etc. are installed between the burner 188 and the gas supply port 124. A frame rod 198 and an ignition plug 199 are installed on the combustion port side of the burner 188, and an igniter 200 is connected to the ignition plug 199. An air supply fan 202 is installed below the burner 188, and the air required for combustion is supplied to the burner 188. In the case of four-stage combustion, which is an example, only the gas switching valve 190-1 is opened for single-stage combustion, the gas switching valves 190-1 and 190-2 are opened for two-stage combustion, the gas switching valve 190-2 is closed, the gas switching valves 190-1 and 190-3 are opened for three-stage combustion, and the gas switching valves 190-1, 190-2, and 190-3 are opened to be switched to four-stage combustion.

[0062] In the heat exchange section 182, a primary heat exchanger 204 and a secondary heat exchanger 206 are installed, moving from the upstream side to the downstream side of the passage for combustion exhaust from the burner 188. A water supply channel 208, which connects the water inlet 34 and the inlet side of the secondary heat exchanger 206, is equipped with a water flow sensor 210 for detecting the amount of water entering, and a bypass valve 212 of the temperature control section 184, which controls the amount of water passing through to adjust the hot water temperature. Low-temperature water LHW flows from the hot water storage tank 24 side. The primary heat exchanger 204 and the secondary heat exchanger 206 are connected in series, and a mixing water control valve 216 of the temperature control section 184, which controls the amount of water passing through, is installed in the outlet channel 214, which connects the outlet side of the primary heat exchanger 204 and the hot water inlet 36.

[0063] A bypass passage 218 is installed between the bypass valve 212 and the mixed water control valve 216 of the temperature control unit 184, bypassing the heat exchange unit 182. Therefore, the temperature control unit 184 adjusts the amount of mixture between the high-temperature water HHW flowing in the hot water outlet passage 214 and the low-temperature water LHW from the bypass passage 218, and adjusts the high-temperature water HHW directed to the hot water storage unit 6 to the hot water storage set temperature.

[0064] A temperature sensor 220-1 is installed at the water inlet 34 to detect the temperature of the passing low-temperature water LHW, a high-limit switch 220-2 and a temperature sensor 220-3 for detecting the hot water temperature are installed at the outlet of the primary heat exchanger 204, and a temperature sensor 220-4 is installed at the hot water inlet 36 to detect the mixed temperature of the high-temperature water HHW and low-temperature water LHW directed to the hot water storage unit 6.

[0065] The condensate generated in the secondary heat exchanger 206 is guided to the neutralizer 222 in the drain processing unit 186 and neutralized. The neutralizer 222 is equipped with an electrode 223 for detecting the condensate level. The neutralizer 222 and the drain outlet 224 are connected by a drain outlet pipe 225, and the condensate D neutralized in the neutralizer 222 is discharged from the drain outlet 224.

[0066] <Remote control device 10> Figure 6A shows an example of the remote control device 10. This remote control device 10 is equipped with an information display unit 228, a first operation unit 230, and an opening / closing cover 232 on the front of the remote control housing 226. The remote control housing 226 is installed on the wall of a house. The information display unit 228 is composed of an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) display and displays various control information such as setting information, temperature information, mode information, and schedule information in characters and graphics.

[0067] The first control unit 230 includes a hot water supply button 234, a continuous heating button 236, a scheduled operation button 238, and a buzzer stop button 240. When the hot water supply button 234 is turned ON, hot water can be supplied, and the hot water supply mode is selected as the initial value. This hot water supply mode includes intermittent hot water supply operation that mainly uses high-temperature water HHW from the hot water storage tank 24. When the hot water supply button 234 is ON, the display unit 242-1 lights up to indicate that hot water supply operation is in progress.

[0068] The continuous boiling button 236 allows you to select between turning it ON to activate continuous boiling mode and turning it OFF to deactivate continuous boiling mode. When the continuous boiling button 236 is ON, the display unit 242-2 lights up to indicate that continuous boiling mode is active.

[0069] The schedule operation button 238 allows you to select between entering schedule operation mode when ON and exiting schedule operation mode when OFF. When the schedule operation button 238 is ON, the display unit 242-3 lights up to indicate that schedule operation mode is active.

[0070] The buzzer stop button 240, when turned ON, can silence the buzzer sound that indicates a malfunction in the equipment. The display unit 242-4 of the buzzer stop button 240 is always lit and flashes when an alarm occurs.

[0071] The opening / closing cover 232 is equipped with sound vents 244, which emit alarms and operation sounds from the speaker 248. This opening / closing cover 232 is, for example, equipped with a hinge on its lower edge and can be opened and closed downwards, and when this opening / closing cover 232 is opened, the second operating section 246 becomes operable.

[0072] <Second operating section 246 of the remote control device 10> Figure 6B shows the second operating unit 246 of the remote control device 10. The second operating unit 246 should be set to be activated when the opening / closing cover 232 is in the open position, in which case the operation of the first operating unit 230 may be disabled.

[0073] The second control panel 246 is equipped with a speaker 248 sound outlet 244, a lock button 250, a water heating setting button 252, a service setting button 254, a pause setting button 256, an INFO button 258, a menu button 260, a hot water temperature setting button 262, a select button 264, a back button 266, and the like.

[0074] The lock button 250 is used to set or release the lock state; for example, pressing and holding it for several seconds will set or release the lock state. After pressing the water heating setting button 252, the water heating temperature can be set using the hot water temperature setting button 262, which will be described later. This water heating temperature is the remote control setting temperature and will be hereinafter referred to as the hot water setting temperature Tset.

[0075] The business hours setting button 254 is used to set the business hours, and the water heating will be performed according to these hours. The pause setting button 256 is used to set the hot water storage to pause for a certain period of time.

[0076] The menu button 260 is used to select the remote control setting menu, and the hot water temperature setting button 262 is used to raise or lower the set temperature. A short press of the up button raises the set temperature, and a short press of the down button lowers the set temperature. The OK button 264 is used to confirm changes such as the set temperature. The back button 266 is used to revert setting information, such as changing settings.

[0077] <Hot water supply system control unit 270> Figure 7 shows the hot water supply system control unit 270. In Figure 7, the same parts as in Figures 1, 3, 5, and 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0078] This hot water supply system control unit 270 is an example of a hot water supply control unit of the present disclosure and is responsible for controlling the entire system, including the control of the noodle boiler 4 of the kitchen system 2, the hot water storage control of the hot water storage unit 6, the hot water supply control of the water heater 8, and the control of the remote control device 10. This hot water supply system control unit 270 includes a noodle boiler control unit 23, a hot water storage unit control unit 272, a water heater control unit 274, and a remote control control unit 276.

[0079] The noodle boiling machine control unit 23 is composed of a computer equipped with a processor 278-1, memory 280-1, and an input / output unit 282-1. The processor 278-1 executes the OS (Operating System) and noodle boiling machine control program located in memory 280-1. Memory 280-1 is an example of a storage medium and includes memory elements such as ROM (Read-Only Memory) and RAM (Random-Access Memory). The ROM stores the OS, hot water supply demand program, hot water supply demand DB 46, etc., while RAM constitutes the work area for information processing. The input / output unit 282-1 is used for inputting and outputting information. Various sensors, including the heater 15, water supply control valve 21, and a temperature sensor (not shown), are connected to this input / output unit 282-1 and are used for inputting detection signals and outputting calculation results under the control of the processor 278-1.

[0080] The hot water storage unit control unit 272 is composed of a computer equipped with a processor 278-2, memory 280-2, and an input / output unit 282-2. The processor 278-2 executes the OS and hot water storage program stored in memory 280-2. Memory 280-2 is an example of a storage medium and includes memory elements such as ROM and RAM. ROM stores the OS, hot water storage program, and schedule database 284 (hereinafter referred to as "Schedule DB 284") used for scheduled operation modes, while RAM constitutes the work area for information processing. The input / output unit 282-2 is used for inputting and outputting information. Various sensors, including temperature sensors 168-1, 168-2, ..., 168-10, timer 286, and calendar unit 288, are connected to this input / output unit 282-2 and are used for inputting detection signals and outputting calculation results under the control of the processor 278-2.

[0081] The schedule DB284 stores the operation information necessary to execute the scheduled operation mode. The operation information is set by the remote control device 10 and includes time information such as the day to be operated, day of the week, time, duration, hot water supply amount, and hot water supply set temperature. The day is year, month, and day information.

[0082] Timer 286 is an example of a timing means controlled by processor 278-2, and timing information is received by processor 278-2 from this timer 286. Instead of timer 286, the clock function of processor 278-2 may be used, or time information may be obtained from an external source such as GPS (Global Positioning System).

[0083] The calendar unit 288 is a database for obtaining information such as the relationships between each year, day, and day of the week. The calendar information obtained from this calendar unit 288 includes time information such as business days (including holidays), business hours, and operating hours for businesses using the kitchen system 2.

[0084] The water heater control unit 274 is a computer equipped with a processor 278-3, memory 280-3, and input / output unit 282-3. The processor 278-3 executes the water heating program handled by the water heater 8 from among the OS and water heating control programs stored in memory 280-3. Memory 280-3 is an example of a storage medium and includes memory elements such as ROM and RAM. ROM stores the OS, water storage program, database, etc., while RAM constitutes the work area for information processing. The input / output unit 282-3 is used for input and output of information. Various sensors, including temperature sensors 220-1, 220-2, 220-3, and 220-4, are connected to this input / output unit 282-3 and are used for acquiring detection signals and outputting control results under the control of the processor 278-3. This control includes combustion control.

[0085] The remote control unit 276 is composed of a computer equipped with a processor 278-4, memory 280-4, and input / output unit 282-4. The processor 278-4 executes the OS and the remote control program for the remote control device 10, which are stored in memory 280-4. Memory 280-4 is an example of a storage medium and includes memory elements such as ROM and RAM. The ROM stores the OS, hot water storage program, database, etc., while RAM constitutes the work area for information processing. The input / output unit 282-4 is used for inputting and outputting information. The first operation unit 230 and the second operation unit 246 are connected to this input / output unit 282-3, and are used under the control of the processor 278-4 to input input signals from the first operation unit 230 or the second operation unit 246 and output to the information presentation unit 228. This control includes combustion control.

[0086] <Relationship between hot water supply temperature Tset and storage water temperature Tref> Equation 1 expresses the relationship between the hot water supply setting temperature Tset and the storage hot water setting temperature Tref.

[0087] Tref = Tset + ΔT > Tset ... Equation 1

[0088] The temperature difference ΔT can be set to, for example, ΔT = 5℃. By setting the storage water temperature Tref higher than the hot water supply temperature Tset in this way, the effect of heat dissipation from the high-temperature water HHW can be avoided, and there is more leeway in adjusting the temperature of the high-temperature water HHW, allowing hot water HW to be supplied adjusted to the hot water supply temperature Tset.

[0089] <Scheduled Operation Control Unit 283> The scheduled operation control includes hot water supply control, for example, intermittent hot water supply operation, which corresponds to the operation schedule of the noodle boiler 4.

[0090] Figure 8 shows the schedule operation control unit 283. This schedule operation control unit 283 is included in the hot water storage unit control unit 272 and is included in the hot water supply system control unit 270, consisting of a schedule DB 284, a timer 286, and a calendar unit 288.

[0091] The schedule DB284 has settings for the hot water supply time section 284-1, the hot water supply type section 284-2, the hot water supply flow rate section 284-3, the hot water supply volume section 284-4, the hot water supply temperature section 284-5, the hot water supply cycle section 284-6, the hot water supply operation section 284-7, and so on.

[0092] The hot water supply time unit 284-1 stores hot water supply time information representing the operating time obtained from the hot water supply operation unit 56 of the hot water supply demand DB 46.

[0093] The hot water supply type unit 284-2 stores hot water supply quantity information, such as intermittent hot water supply information representing intermittent hot water supply with a hot water supply time of 6 seconds and a pause time of 18 seconds, as a hot water supply type acquired from the hot water supply type unit 52 of the hot water supply demand DB 46. Hot water supply quantity information, such as the acquired hot water supply amount, is stored.

[0094] The hot water flow rate section 284-3 stores hot water flow rate information representing the hot water flow rate obtained from the hot water cycle section 54 and the hot water operation section 56 of the hot water demand DB 46.

[0095] The hot water volume unit 284-4 stores hot water flow rate information, such as the hot water flow rate obtained from the hot water flow rate unit 48 of the hot water demand DB 46.

[0096] The hot water temperature unit 284-5 stores temperature information such as the hot water supply setting temperature for the noodle boiler 4 and the hot water storage setting temperature for the hot water storage tank 24.

[0097] The hot water cycle unit 284-6 stores hot water cycle information obtained from the hot water cycle unit 54 of the hot water demand DB 46. For example, the cycle time unit 284-61 and the flow rate unit 284-62 are set. The cycle time unit 284-61 stores time information representing the cycle time of the hot water cycle, and the flow rate unit 284-62 stores flow rate information representing the hot water flow rate in the hot water cycle.

[0098] The hot water supply operation unit 284-7 stores operation information representing hot water supply operations obtained from the hot water supply operation unit 56 of the hot water supply demand DB 46. For example, the time-based hot water supply amount unit 284-71 and the operation count unit 284-72 are set. The time-based hot water supply amount unit 284-71 stores hot water supply amount information representing the amount of hot water supplied per operation time, and the operation count unit 284-72 stores count information representing the number of hot water supply operations.

[0099] In addition, the system stores setting date and time information set by the remote control device 10, day information such as business days and holidays, time information representing the day of the week, time information representing the operating time, time information representing the operating duration, and time information such as days when operation is suspended.

[0100] The timer 286 associates the information stored in the schedule DB 284 with the calendar information stored in the calendar unit 288, and provides timing information for identification such as the day and time.

[0101] Therefore, when the scheduled operation mode is selected, the hot water supply system control unit 270 acquires timing information from the timer 286 and calendar information from the calendar unit 288 based on the scheduled operation information set from the remote control device 10, and outputs operation instruction information according to the schedule information stored in the schedule DB 284. Based on this operation instruction information, the hot water supply operation of the kitchen system 2 is executed. The calendar unit 288 outputs month information, day information, and day of the week information for each year.

[0102] <Change in regulated flow rate (switching of flow rate number)> In this kitchen system 2, the regulated flow rate is automatically calculated according to the amount of hot water HHW stored (heat storage amount) in the hot water storage tank 24, and the optimal maximum hot water output capacity is changed accordingly. This maximum hot water output capacity includes a first mode and a second mode. The first mode assumes the maximum hot water output capacity provided by the water heater 8 and performs proportional control from the minimum capacity up to, for example, a maximum of 24. The second mode assumes the maximum hot water output capacity when the water heater 8 is used in conjunction with hot water from the hot water storage tank 24 and performs proportional control from the minimum capacity up to, for example, a maximum of 32.

[0103] Here, "No. 1" refers to the capacity to raise the temperature of 1 liter of water by 25°C per minute. Therefore, a No. 24 hot water output means the capacity to raise the water temperature by 25°C and output 24 liters of hot water HW from the water heater 8 per minute. In kitchen system 2, which uses both the water heater 8 and the hot water storage unit 6, this means the capacity to raise the water temperature by 25°C and output 24 liters of hot water HW per minute. Furthermore, a No. 32 hot water output means that in kitchen system 2, which uses both the water heater 8 and the hot water storage unit 6, it is possible to raise the water temperature by 25°C and output 32 liters of hot water HW per minute. However, to prevent corrosion of the system piping, the regulated flow rate is limited to a maximum of 24 liters / min or less when outputting 32 liters of hot water.

[0104] In this kitchen system 2, automatic switching between the first and second modes, which are set to regulated flow rates, is performed, and the following regulated flow rates (1), (2), and (3) are included.

[0105] <Regulated flow rate (1)> A in FIG. 9 shows the table of regulated flow rate (1). If the detected temperature T4 of the temperature sensor 168 - 4 is equal to or higher than the stored hot water set temperature Tref (T4 ≧ Tref), the regulated flow rate (1) is calculated at No. 32. According to this calculation, if the incoming water temperature = 5°C, the outgoing hot water temperature = 60°C, and the number = No. 32, the regulated flow rate = 14.55 liters / min.

[0106] B in FIG. 9 shows the hot water supply operation in the second mode. The water heater 8 can supply hot water at No. 24. If the detected temperature T4 of the temperature sensor 168 - 4 is equal to or higher than the stored hot water set temperature Tref, in the storage tank 24, the stored amount of high - temperature hot water HHW at or above the stored hot water set temperature Tref is Q4 = 55 liters or more, so it is possible to supply hot water at No. 32.

[0107] When hot water supply is required and the water supply W enters the lower layer of the storage tank 24, the pump 160 is driven, and low - temperature hot water LHW enters the water heater 8 from the storage tank 24. The water heater 8 heats the low - temperature hot water LHW to high - temperature hot water HHW at or above the stored hot water set temperature Tref, and this high - temperature hot water HHW is returned to the upper layer of the storage tank 24. At this time, it is possible to supply hot water at No. 32 from the storage tank 24.

[0108] <Regulated flow rate (2)> A in FIG. 10 shows the table of regulated flow rate (2). During hot water supply in the second mode, if the detected temperature T1 of the temperature sensor 168 - 1 becomes lower than the stored hot water set temperature Tref (T1 < Tref), the regulated flow rate (2) is calculated from No. 32 to No. 24. According to this calculation, if the incoming water temperature = 5°C, the outgoing hot water temperature = 60°C, and the number = No. 24, the regulated flow rate = 10.91 liters / min.

[0109] B in FIG. 10 shows the hot water supply operation from the second mode to the first mode. If the detected temperature T1 of the temperature sensor 168 - 1 drops below the stored hot water set temperature Tref (T1 < Tref), in the storage tank 24, the stored amount of high - temperature hot water HHW at or above the stored hot water set temperature Tref has dropped to less than Q1 = 10 liters. In this case, the hot water supply is changed from No. 32 to No. 24.

[0110] At this time, a hot water supply demand occurs. When the water supply W enters the lower layer of the hot water storage tank 24, the pump 160 is driven, and the low-temperature water LHW enters the water heater 8 from the hot water storage tank 24. The water heater 8 heats the low-temperature water LHW to high-temperature water HHW at or above the hot water storage set temperature Tref, and this high-temperature water HHW is returned to the upper layer of the hot water storage tank 24. At this time, hot water can be discharged from the 24th outlet of the hot water storage tank 24.

[0111] <Regulated flow rate (3)> A in FIG. 11 shows a table indicating the change conditions from the first mode to the second mode. When shifting from the hot water discharge of No. 32 to the hot water discharge of No. 24 at the regulated flow rate (2), when the detected temperature T4 of the temperature sensor 168-4 recovers to or above the hot water storage set temperature Tref (T4≧Tref), the calculation of the regulated flow rate (1) is performed for No. 32. That is, during the hot water discharge in the second mode, if the detected temperature T1 becomes T1<Tref, the calculation for No. 32 is not performed until the detected temperature T4 becomes T4≧Tref.

[0112] B in FIG. 11 shows the hot water discharge operation from the first mode to the second mode. If the detected temperature T1 of the temperature sensor 168-1 drops below the hot water storage set temperature Tref (T1<Tref), the hot water discharge operation of No. 24 is continued, and the hot water storage operation of the high-temperature water HHW in the hot water storage tank 24 is continued. That is, the hot water discharge of No. 24 is continued until the detected temperature T4 becomes T4≧Tref.

[0113] <Processing procedure for flow rate regulation> FIG. 12 shows the processing procedure for flow rate regulation. This processing procedure shows an example of the hot water supply method or program of the present disclosure. In FIG. 12, S represents the steps of the processing procedure, and the reference numerals attached to S are examples of the order.

[0114] A hot water supply demand occurs, and at the initial stage of hot water discharge, hot water discharge in the first mode occurs (S101). In this first mode, the maximum regulation is 24th = 24 liters / min. In this case, the ON / OFF control of the pump 160 (ON / OFF of the water heater 8) is based on the control described in the flowchart shown in FIG. 17 or FIG. 19.

[0115] When hot water is discharged in this first mode, the hot water storage unit control unit 272 obtains the detected temperature T4 of the temperature sensor 168-4 and determines whether the detected temperature T4 is less than the hot water storage set temperature Tref (T4 < Tref) (S102). If the detected temperature T4 is T4 < Tref (YES in S102), the hot water storage unit control unit 272 obtains the detected temperature T1 of the temperature sensor 168-1 and determines whether the detected temperature T1 is less than the hot water storage set temperature Tref (T1 < Tref) (S103).

[0116] If the detected temperature T1 is greater than or equal to the hot water storage set temperature Tref (T1 ≥ Tref) (NO in S103), it is determined whether the detected temperature T4 is less than the hot water storage set temperature Tref (T4 < Tref) (S102). If the detected temperature T4 is T4 ≥ Tref (NO in S102), the process proceeds to hot water discharge in the second mode (S104). In this case, the maximum is regulated to 32 = 24 liters / min. In this case, the maximum 32 continues regardless of the ON / OFF of the flow rate, and it returns to the maximum 24 only when the detected temperature T1 becomes T1 < Tref.

[0117] When hot water is discharged in this second mode, the hot water storage unit control unit 272 obtains the detected temperature T1 of the temperature sensor 168-1 and determines whether the detected temperature T1 is less than the hot water storage set temperature Tref (T1 < Tref) (S105). During hot water discharge in the second mode, if the detected temperature T1 is not T1 < Tref (NO in S105), the hot water discharge in the second mode continues. That is, when shifting from hot water discharge in the first mode to the second mode, hot water discharge at the maximum 32 continues until the detected temperature T1 becomes T1 < Tref.

[0118] During hot water discharge in the first mode or during hot water discharge in the second mode, if the detected temperature T1 of the temperature sensor 168-1 drops to T1 < Tref (YES in S103 or S105), the process proceeds to hot water discharge in the first mode (S106). In this case, it is hot water discharge at the maximum 24, and FB (feedback) control is performed by the mixed water control valve 156.

[0119] In this case, if the detected temperature of the temperature sensor 168-9 is T9, when this detected temperature T9 satisfies T9 < Tset, the hot water storage unit control section 272 determines that the heating of the water heater 8 has not reached the hot water storage set temperature Tref, controls the opening degree of the water control valve 164-2, increases the flow rate of the high-temperature water HHW from the hot water outlet passage 140, and reduces the flow rate of the water supply W from the bypass passage 166.

[0120] If the detected temperature of the temperature sensor 168-8 on the hot water outlet side of the hot water storage tank 24 is T8, when this detected temperature T8 satisfies T8 > Tref, it is determined that there is a margin for hot water storage (heat storage) by the high-temperature water HHW, the opening degree of the water control valve 164-2 is controlled, the flow rate of the high-temperature water HHW from the hot water outlet passage 140 is reduced, and the flow rate of the water supply W from the bypass passage 166 is increased. When both the detected temperature T9 satisfies T9 < Tset and the detected temperature T8 satisfies T8 > Tref, the control for restricting the opening degree on the water supply W side of the water control valve 164-2 is prioritized.

[0121] During hot water outlet in the first mode, the hot water storage unit control section 272 acquires the detected temperature T4 of the temperature sensor 168-4 and determines whether the detected temperature T4 satisfies T4 ≥ Tref (S107). If the detected temperature T4 satisfies T4 < Tref (NO in S107), the hot water outlet in the first mode is continued. If the detected temperature T4 satisfies T4 ≥ Tref (YES in S107), the hot water outlet is changed to the second mode (S104). That is, in the first mode, until the detected temperature T4 satisfies T4 ≥ Tref, the hot water outlet up to No. 32 is not performed.

[0122] <Operation mode> The operation modes of this kitchen system 2 include a) hot water supply mode, b) constant boiling mode, c) scheduled operation mode, etc., and the user can set a desired mode.

[0123] a) Hot water supply mode: This hot water supply mode is an example of the hot water storage mode of this disclosure, and reduces the amount of heat emitted from the hot water by suppressing the heat emission area of ​​the hot water HHW, such as by controlling the amount of hot water HHW stored in the hot water storage tank 24 to a predetermined amount less than the maximum hot water storage capacity of the hot water storage tank 24. In this case, by reducing the amount of heat emitted, the operating time and amount of heat used for reheating the water heater 8 during hot water supply can be reduced, and energy saving is also achieved.

[0124] b) Continuous heating mode: This continuous heating mode continuously stores, for example, the maximum amount of hot water HHW in the hot water storage tank 24 to meet the diverse hot water supply demands that frequently arise.

[0125] c) Scheduled operation mode: This scheduled operation mode is used when scheduled operation is possible to accommodate regular hot water supply demands, such as for kitchen hot water supply.

[0126] This kitchen system 2 enables energy-saving hot water storage and supply by selecting the hot water supply mode. Furthermore, it allows users to select between hot water supply mode, continuous heating mode, or scheduled operation mode according to their hot water demand. This minimizes the amount of high-temperature water (HHW) stored above the set storage temperature while accommodating diverse hot water demands, resulting in efficient hot water storage and supply.

[0127] <Procedure for selecting the driving mode> Figure 13 shows the procedure for selecting an operating mode. This procedure is an example of the function of the hot water supply method or program of this disclosure.

[0128] This procedure is an example of selecting and processing an operating mode set in the remote control device 10. After the operation switch is turned on, the hot water supply system control unit 270 enters a standby state (S151) and then enters a mode selection process to switch to the selected mode (S152).

[0129] In this mode selection, it is determined whether "hot water supply" = ON (S153). If "hot water supply" = ON (YES in S153), the hot water supply mode is entered (S154). If the hot water supply mode is canceled or ended, the standby state is entered (S151).

[0130] If "hot water supply" ≠ ON (NO in S153), it is determined whether "constant boiling" = ON (S155). If "constant boiling" = ON (YES in S155), the constant boiling mode is entered (S156). If the constant boiling mode is canceled or ended, the standby state is entered (S151).

[0131] If "constant boiling" ≠ ON (NO in S155), it is determined whether "scheduled operation" = ON (S157). If "scheduled operation" = ON (YES in S157), the scheduled operation mode is entered (S158). If the scheduled operation mode is canceled or ended, the standby state is entered (S151).

[0132] <Hot water supply mode> A in FIG. 14 shows the setting content of the hot water supply mode. If "hot water supply" = ON by operating the hot water supply button 234 of the remote control device 10, the hot water supply mode is set. In the hot water storage operation of this hot water supply mode, the water is constantly heated and stored to the storage amount Q1.

[0133] In this hot water supply mode, if the detected temperature of the temperature sensor 168-1 is T1, the detected temperature of the temperature sensor 168-2 is T2, and the hot water storage set temperature is Tref, when T1 < Tref, the pump 160 is operated, and when it changes to T2 > Tref, the operation of the pump 160 is stopped. Therefore, the high-temperature water HHW with a storage amount Q2 can be stored in the hot water storage tank 24.

[0134] In this hot water supply mode, when the hot water storage tank 24 receives the makeup water W due to the hot water supply demand and the detected temperature T1 of the temperature sensor 168-1 changes to T1 < Tref, the pump 160 is operated. When the detected temperature T2 of the temperature sensor 168-2 changes to T2 > Tref, the operation of the pump 160 is stopped. Alternatively, when the hot water storage tank 24 receives the makeup water W due to the hot water supply demand, the pump 160 may be simultaneously operated (pump 160 = ON), and when the detected temperature T2 of the temperature sensor 168-2 changes to T2 > Tref, the operation of the pump 160 may be stopped. Similarly, the hot water storage tank 24 can store the high-temperature water HHW with the stored water volume Q2.

[0135] <Hot water supply operation in the hot water supply mode> B in FIG. 14 shows the hot water supply operation in the hot water supply mode. When receiving the makeup water W, the high-temperature water HHW is discharged from the hot water storage tank 24, and this high-temperature water HHW is adjusted to the hot water HW at the hot water supply set temperature by mixing with the makeup water W for hot water supply.

[0136] When the makeup water W flows into the hot water storage tank 24 and the detected temperature T1 becomes T1 < Tref, the pump 160 operates, and the low-temperature water LHW is drawn from the lower layer side of the hot water storage tank 24 and supplied to the water heater 8. The water heater 8 shifts to the combustion operation, and the low-temperature water LHW is heated to the high-temperature water HHW above the hot water storage set temperature Tref and returned to the upper layer of the hot water storage tank 24.

[0137] <Processing procedure in the hot water supply mode> FIG. 15 shows the processing procedure in the hot water supply mode. This hot water supply operation includes an intermittent hot water supply operation using the makeup water volume Wq detected by the water volume sensor 152. This processing procedure is an example of the function of the hot water supply method or program of the present disclosure.

[0138] In this processing procedure, it is determined whether "hot water supply" = ON from the standby state (S201) (S202). If "hot water supply" ≠ ON (NO in S202), the process returns to the standby state (S201).

[0139] If "hot water supply" = ON (YES in S202), it is determined whether the detected temperature T1 is T1 < Tref (S203). If T1 ≥ Tref (NO in S203), the standby state is entered (S201). At this time, the hot water storage tank 24 stores a hot water storage amount of high-temperature water HHW equal to or higher than the hot water storage set temperature Tref by a hot water storage amount equal to or higher than the hot water storage amount Q1.

[0140] If the detected temperature T1 is T1 < Tref (YES in S203), the pump 160 is operated (S204 = heat storage start). When the pump 160 starts operating, low-temperature water LHW flows from the lower layer side of the hot water storage tank 24 into the water heater 8 through the pipeline 138-1, and the water heater 8 heats the low-temperature water LHW to high-temperature water HHW at the hot water storage set temperature Tref by the hot water supply operation. This high-temperature water HHW is returned to the upper layer side of the hot water storage tank 24 through the pipeline 138-2.

[0141] If the detected temperature T2 is T2 ≤ Tref (NO in S205), the operation of the pump 160 is continued. If T2 > Tref (YES in S205), the operation of the pump 160 is stopped (S206 = heat storage stop). At this time, the storage of high-temperature water HHW (storage amount Q2) in the hot water storage tank 24 is completed.

[0142] Regarding the hot water supply demand, if there is a hot water supply demand within a predetermined time, for example, within 3 hours (NO in S207), it returns to the standby state (S201), and the processes of S201 to S207 are executed. Also, if there is no hot water supply demand within 3 hours (YES in S207), even if the operating conditions of the pump 160 are satisfied, it waits until a hot water supply demand occurs, that is, the operation stop of the pump 160 is continued (NO in S208). If there is a hot water supply demand (YES in S208), it returns to the standby state (S201), and the processes of S201 to S208 are executed.

[0143] <Constant boiling mode> A in FIG. 16 shows the setting content of the constant boiling mode. If "constant boiling" = ON is set by operating the constant boiling button 236 of the remote control device 10, the constant boiling mode is set. In the hot water storage operation of this constant boiling mode, hot water storage with a hot water storage amount Q5 by constant boiling is performed.

[0144] In this constant boiling-up mode, if the detected temperature of the temperature sensor 168-4 is T4, the detected temperature of the temperature sensor 168-5 is T5, and the set temperature of the stored hot water is Tref, when the detected temperature T4 of the temperature sensor 168-4 is T4 < Tref, the pump 160 is operated, and when the detected temperature T5 of the temperature sensor 168-5 changes to T5 > Tref, the operation of the pump 160 is stopped. Therefore, the high-temperature water HHW can be stored in the hot water storage tank 24 by the storage amount Q5.

[0145] In this constant boiling-up mode, when the hot water storage tank 24 receives the feed water W due to the hot water supply demand and the detected temperature T4 changes to T4 < Tref, the operation of the pump 160 is started, and when the detected temperature T5 changes to T5 > Tref, the operation of the pump 160 is stopped. Alternatively, when the hot water storage tank 24 receives the feed water W due to the hot water supply demand, the pump 160 can be operated simultaneously (pump 160 = ON), and when the detected temperature T5 changes to T5 > Tref, the operation of the pump 160 can be stopped. Therefore, similarly, the high-temperature water HHW in the hot water storage tank 24 is controlled to the storage amount Q5.

[0146] <Hot water supply operation in the constant boiling-up mode> B in FIG. 16 shows the hot water supply operation in the hot water supply mode. When receiving the feed water W, the high-temperature water HHW is discharged from the hot water storage tank 24, and this high-temperature water HHW is adjusted to the hot water HW at the set hot water supply temperature by mixing with the feed water W for hot water supply.

[0147] When the feed water W flows into the hot water storage tank 24 and the detected temperature T4 becomes T4 < Tref, the pump 160 operates, the low-temperature water LHW is drawn out from the lower layer side of the hot water storage tank 24, and is supplied to the water heater 8. The water heater 8 shifts to the combustion operation, and the low-temperature water LHW is heated to the high-temperature water HHW above the set hot water temperature Tref and returned to the upper layer of the hot water storage tank 24.

[0148] <Processing procedure in the constant boiling-up mode> FIG. 17 shows the processing procedure of the always-boiling mode. This processing procedure is an example of the function of the hot water supply method or program of the present disclosure.

[0149] In this processing procedure, it is determined whether "always boiling" = ON from the standby state (S301) (S302). If "always boiling" ≠ ON (NO in S302), it returns to the standby state (S301).

[0150] If "always boiling" = ON (YES in S302), it is determined whether the detected temperature T4 is T4 < Tref (S303). If T4 ≥ Tref (NO in S303), it becomes the standby state. At this time, the hot water storage tank 24 stores hot water HHW at a temperature equal to or higher than the hot water storage set temperature Tref in a hot water storage amount equal to or greater than the hot water storage amount Q4.

[0151] If the detected temperature T4 is T4 < Tref (YES in S303), the pump 160 is operated (S304 = heat storage start). When this pump 160 starts operating, low-temperature water LHW flows from the lower layer side of the hot water storage tank 24 into the water heater 8 through the pipeline 138-1, and the water heater 8 heats the low-temperature water LHW to high-temperature water HHW at the hot water storage set temperature Tref by the hot water supply operation. This high-temperature water HHW is returned to the upper layer side of the hot water storage tank 24 through the pipeline 138-2.

[0152] If the detected temperature T5 is T5 ≤ Tref (NO in S305), the operation of the pump 160 is continued. If T5 > Tref (YES in S305), the operation of the pump 160 is stopped (S306 = heat storage stop). At this time, the hot water storage in the hot water storage tank 24 is completed with a hot water storage amount Q5.

[0153] Then, it determines the presence or absence of hot water supply demand. If there is a hot water supply demand within a predetermined time, for example, within 3 hours (NO in S307), it returns to the standby state (S301) and executes the processes of S301 to S307. Also, if there is no hot water supply demand within 3 hours (YES in S307), even if the operating conditions of the pump 160 are satisfied, the operation of the pump 160 continues to be stopped and it waits until a hot water supply demand occurs (NO in S308). It determines the hot water supply demand. If there is a hot water supply demand (YES in S308), it returns to the standby state (S301) and executes the processes of S301 to S308.

[0154] <Schedule operation mode> A in FIG. 18 shows the setting content of the schedule operation mode. By operating the schedule operation button 238 of the remote control device 10 to set "schedule operation" = ON, the schedule operation mode is set. In the hot water storage operation of this schedule operation mode, hot water storage of the hot water storage amount Q5 of the high-temperature water HHW is always performed in accordance with the business hours set by the business setting button 254.

[0155] In this schedule operation mode, if the detected temperatures are T4, T5 and the hot water storage set temperature is Tref, during business hours, when the detected temperature T4 is T4 < Tref, the pump 160 is operated, and when the detected temperature T5 changes to T5 > Tref, the operation of the pump 160 is stopped. Therefore, high-temperature water HHW with a hot water storage amount Q5 is stored in the hot water storage tank 24.

[0156] In this schedule operation mode, when the hot water storage tank 24 receives the water supply W due to the hot water supply demand and the detected temperature T4 changes to T4 < Tref, the operation of the pump 160 is started, and when the detected temperature T5 changes to T5 > Tref, the operation of the pump 160 is stopped. Alternatively, when the hot water storage tank 24 receives the water supply W due to the hot water supply demand, the pump 160 may be operated simultaneously (pump 160 = ON), and when it changes to T5 > Tref, the operation of the pump 160 is stopped. Therefore, similarly, the high-temperature water HHW in the hot water storage tank 24 is controlled to the hot water storage amount Q5.

[0157] <Hot water supply operation of the schedule operation mode> B in FIG. 18 shows the hot water supply operation in the scheduled operation mode. During business hours, when receiving the makeup water W, the high-temperature water HHW is discharged from the hot water storage tank 24. Then, the high-temperature water HHW discharged from the hot water storage tank 24 is mixed with the makeup water W, and the high-temperature water HHW is adjusted to the hot water HW at the hot water supply set temperature and supplied as hot water.

[0158] When the makeup water W flows into the hot water storage tank 24 and the detected temperature T4 becomes T4 < Tref, the pump 160 operates, and the low-temperature water LHW is drawn from the lower layer side of the hot water storage tank 24 and supplied to the water heater 8. The water heater 8 shifts to the combustion operation, and the low-temperature water LHW is heated to the high-temperature water HHW above the hot water storage set temperature Tref and returned to the upper layer of the hot water storage tank 24.

[0159] <Processing Procedure of Scheduled Operation Mode> FIG. 19 shows the processing procedure of the scheduled operation mode. This processing procedure is an example of the function of the hot water supply method or program of the present disclosure.

[0160] In this processing procedure, it is determined whether "scheduled operation" = ON from the standby state (S401) (S402). If "scheduled operation" ≠ ON (NO in S402), the process returns to the standby state (S401).

[0161] If "scheduled operation" = ON (YES in S402), the process shifts to the scheduled operation mode, and the hot water supply system control unit 270 refers to the schedule information and executes a schedule determination for scheduled operation control (S403). In this schedule determination S403, it is determined whether it corresponds to the day, day of the week, time, or period of scheduled operation according to the schedule information acquired from the schedule DB 284 (S404). Specifically, the schedule information, the timekeeping information of the timer 286, and the calendar information from the calendar unit 288 are acquired from the schedule DB 284, and it is determined whether it corresponds to the day, day of the week, time, or period when hot water should be supplied set in the schedule DB 284. In this case, if it does not correspond to the day, day of the week, time, or period when hot water should be supplied or it is a holiday, the hot water supply operation is stopped and the standby state is entered (S401).

[0162] The hot water supply system control unit 270 receives instruction information representing the result of the schedule determination (S403) and determines whether there is an operation instruction (S405). If there is no operation instruction (NO in S405), the standby state is continued. If there is an operation instruction (YES in S405), the process proceeds to the hot water supply control.

[0163] If the detected temperature T4 satisfies T4 < Tref (YES in S406), the pump 160 is operated (S407 = heat storage start). When this pump 160 starts operating, low-temperature water LHW flows from the lower layer side of the hot water storage tank 24 into the water heater 8 through the pipeline 138-1, and the water heater 8 heats the low-temperature water LHW to high-temperature water HHW at the hot water storage set temperature Tref by the hot water supply operation. This high-temperature water HHW is returned to the upper layer side of the hot water storage tank 24 through the pipeline 138-2.

[0164] If the detected temperature T5 satisfies T5 ≤ Tref (NO in S408), the operation of the pump 160 is continued, and if T5 > Tref (YES in S408), the operation of the pump 160 is stopped (S409 = heat storage stop). At this time, the storage of high-temperature water HHW (storage amount Q5) in the hot water storage tank 24 is completed.

[0165] Then, the hot water supply demand is determined (S410). If there is a hot water supply demand within a predetermined elapsed time, for example, within 3 hours (NO in S410), the process returns to the schedule determination (S403), and the processes of S403 to S410 are executed. If there is no hot water supply demand within 3 hours (YES in S410), even if the operating conditions of the pump 160 are satisfied, it waits until a hot water supply demand occurs (that is, the operation stop of the pump 160 is continued), and determines the presence or absence of a hot water supply demand (S411).

[0166] If there is no hot water supply demand (NO in S411), it is determined whether the schedule operation has ended (S412). If it is not the end of the schedule operation (NO in S412), the process returns to the schedule determination (S403), and the processes of S403 to S412 are executed. If it is the end of the schedule operation (YES in S412), the schedule operation mode is ended, and the process returns to the standby state (S401).

[0167] <Boiling suppression control (S207 in Figure 15, S307 in Figure 17, and S411 in Figure 19)> If the remote control device 10 remains ON for a long period, for example, 3 hours, and no hot water is supplied, the amount of heat stored will decrease due to heat dissipation from the hot water storage tank 24, which may cause unnecessary heating. Therefore, heating suppression control is performed to prevent this unnecessary heating. For example, if, after heating is complete, 3 hours have passed without any demand for hot water, even if the ON condition for the pump 160 is met, the pump 160 will stop operating, and the heating operation of the water heater 8 will be suspended. When the next demand for hot water arises, the pump 160 will start operating, and the heating operation of the water heater 8 will begin.

[0168] <Intermittent hot water supply> Figure 20A shows the operation pattern of intermittent hot water supply. In Figure 20, Ton = hot water supply time, Toff = pause time, and Tc (= Ton + Toff) = cycle time.

[0169] The water heater 8 is operated during the hot water supply time Ton, and its operation is stopped during the pause time Toff. Therefore, intermittent hot water supply is achieved by repeating the cycle of hot water supply and hot water supply pause according to the cycle time Tc.

[0170] Figure 20B shows the hot water supply status of the noodle boiler 4. Hot water HW is supplied from the hot water storage unit 6 during the supply time Ton.

[0171] <First control pattern> In the first control pattern, as shown in Figure 4, if the hot water storage volume Q1 at the installation location of temperature sensor 168-1 is 10 liters and the hot water storage volume Q2 at the installation location of temperature sensor 168-2 is 16 liters, then the hot water storage volume between temperature sensors 168-1 and 168-2 is 6 liters, and this amount of hot water storage becomes the amount of hot water supplied from the hot water storage unit 6.

[0172] When the hot water storage unit 6 is used in conjunction with the water heater 8, the number of times the water heater 8 operates is as follows, assuming a hot water supply demand including intermittent hot water supply as shown in Figure 2, with a hot water supply amount of 60 liters per hour and an operating time of 11 hours per day. Number of operations per hour: 10 times / hour Number of operations per day: 110 times / day Number of operations per year: 40,150 times / year

[0173] This number of operations is 1 / 15th of the number of operations when the water heater 8 is used alone without the storage unit 6. Therefore, it was confirmed that the number of operations is dramatically reduced when the storage unit 6 is used.

[0174] <Second control pattern> In the second control pattern, as shown in Figure 4, if the hot water storage volume Q4 at the installation location of temperature sensor 168-4 is 55 liters and the hot water storage volume Q5 at the installation location of temperature sensor 168-5 is 75 liters, then the hot water storage volume between temperature sensors 168-3 and 168-5 is 20 liters, and this amount of hot water storage becomes the amount of hot water supplied from the hot water storage unit 6.

[0175] The number of times the water heater 8 operates in the previously described continuous heating mode and scheduled operation mode is as follows:

[0176] The number of times the water heater 8 operates when the hot water storage unit 6 is used in conjunction with it is as follows: Number of operations per hour: 3 times / hour Number of operations per day: 33 times / day Number of operations per year: 12,045 times / year

[0177] This number of operations is 1 / 50th of the number of operations when the water heater 8 is used alone without the storage unit 6. Therefore, it was confirmed that the number of operations is dramatically reduced when the storage unit 6 is used.

[0178] <Effects of the First Embodiment> According to this first embodiment, one of the following effects can be obtained. (1) The hot water supply demands from kitchen equipment such as noodle boilers 4 can be appropriately handled by selecting the hot water supply mode, continuous heating mode, or scheduled operation mode described above, for example, hot water supply at opening time including high-flow hot water supply, low-flow hot water supply, intermittent hot water supply, and continuous hot water supply, as well as high-flow hot water supply such as hot water exchange in the hot water tank, and intermittent hot water supply to meet the demand for boiled noodles.

[0179] (2) In hot water supply mode, as described above, the amount of hot water HHW stored is reduced relative to the maximum storage capacity of the hot water storage tank 24, thereby reducing the amount of heat released and suppressing excessive operating time of the water heater 8, and enabling energy-saving hot water supply.

[0180] (3) Kitchen system 2 can be constructed according to the capacity of the kitchen equipment, making it possible to realize an economical kitchen system 2.

[0181] (4) By executing either the first mode or the second mode according to the amount of hot water HHW stored in the hot water storage tank 24, efficient hot water supply can be performed in accordance with the hot water demand and the amount of hot water stored. In the second mode, the flow rate of the first mode is maintained, which prevents corrosion of the system pipeline.

[0182] (5) Depending on the hot water demand, the user can select one of the following operating modes: hot water supply mode, continuous heating mode, or scheduled operation mode.

[0183] (6) By selecting the hot water supply mode, the amount of hot water HHW stored in the hot water storage tank 24 can be reduced relative to its maximum storage capacity, reducing the amount of heat released by the heat dissipation surface area of ​​the hot water HHW, and reducing the number of times the water heater 8 heats the low-temperature water LHW to high-temperature water HHW, thereby achieving energy-saving hot water supply.

[0184] (7) Regardless of which mode is selected—hot water supply mode, continuous heating mode, or scheduled operation mode—if there is no hot water demand for a long period of time of 3 hours or more while the mode setting is left on the remote control device 10, unnecessary heating operations can be prevented.

[0185] (8) After a predetermined amount of high-temperature water HHW is stored in the hot water storage tank 24 in hot water supply mode, continuous heating mode, or scheduled operation mode, if, for example, 3 hours have elapsed without any demand for hot water, the pump 160 will remain shut off even if the operating conditions for the pump 160 are met, and the heating of low-temperature water LHW to high-temperature water HHW will be started when a demand for hot water arises, thereby reducing the number of times the water heater 8 operates.

[0186] (9) By reducing or controlling the amount of hot water HHW stored in the hot water storage tank 24, it is possible to meet a wide range of hot water supply demands, from low-flow to high-flow hot water supply of hot water HHW or hot water HW, without suppressing the maximum storage capacity of the hot water storage tank 24.

[0187] (10) According to the scheduled operation mode, hot water supply operations, including storage operation, can be performed based on any or more of the pre-set scheduled operation information, such as the day, day of the week, time, duration, amount of hot water supplied, and hot water supply set temperature, in order to meet the hot water supply demand.

[0188] [Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment, the hot water supply control is performed according to the water supply amount Wq, and when a hot water supply demand is received that does not allow the water heater 8 to operate, the control is performed to supplement it with hot water supplied from the hot water storage tank 24. In contrast, in the kitchen system 2 according to the second embodiment, a mode is set in which the water heater 8 is not operated, and hot water HHW is supplied from the hot water storage tank 24 according to the amount of hot water HHW stored in the hot water storage tank 24. For this hot water supply control, the kitchen system 2 shown in Figure 1 and the hot water storage unit 6 shown in Figure 2 can be used.

[0189] <Settings for the second hot water supply mode> Figure 21A shows the settings for the second hot water supply mode according to the second embodiment. The second hot water supply mode is set by operating the hot water supply button 234 on the remote control device 10 to "Second Hot Water Supply" = ON. In the hot water storage operation of this hot water supply mode, for example, hot water is heated and stored for a storage amount Q1 (where i = 1, 2, ..., 5).

[0190] In this hot water supply mode, for example, the detected temperature Ti of the temperature sensors 168-i (where i = 1, 2, ···, 5) satisfies Ti ≥ Tref.

[0191] <Hot water supply operation in the second hot water supply mode> B in FIG. 21 shows the hot water supply operation in the second hot water supply mode. When receiving the water supply W, the high-temperature water HHW is discharged from the hot water storage tank 24, and this high-temperature water HHW is used for hot water supply as the hot water HW adjusted to the hot water supply set temperature by the temperature adjustment unit 142 through mixing with the water supply W.

[0192] <Processing procedure of the hot water supply mode> FIG. 22 shows the processing procedure of the second hot water supply mode. This processing procedure is an example of the function of the hot water supply method or program of the present disclosure.

[0193] In this processing procedure, it is determined whether "second hot water supply" = ON from the standby state (S501) (S502). If "second hot water supply" ≠ ON (NO in S502), the process returns to the standby state (S501).

[0194] When hot water supply demand occurs, the hot water storage unit control unit 272 acquires the hot water storage amount information of the high-temperature water HHW based on the detected temperature Ti of the temperature sensors 168-i (i = 1, 2, ···, 5), and determines whether the detected temperature Ti satisfies Ti ≥ Tref (S503). If the detected temperature Ti satisfies Ti ≥ Tref (YES in S503), hot water discharge control (a mode in which the water heater 8 is not operated and temperature adjustment is performed) is executed to discharge the high-temperature water HHW from the hot water storage tank 24 (S504). If the detected temperature Ti does not satisfy Ti ≥ Tref (NO in S503), S504 is skipped and the hot water discharge control in S504 is not performed.

[0195] During the hot water discharge control or when S504 is skipped, the hot water storage unit control unit 272 monitors the detected temperature T1 of the temperature sensor 168-1, and determines whether the detected temperature T1 satisfies T1 < Tref (S505). If T1 ≥ Tref (NO in S505), the process returns to S501.

[0196] If the detected temperature T1 is T1 < Tref (YES in S505), the process shifts to the normal hot water supply mode and the pump 160 is operated (S506 = heat storage start). When the pump 160 starts operating, the low-temperature water LHW flows from the lower layer side of the hot water storage tank 24 into the water heater 8 through the pipeline 138-1, and the water heater 8 heats the low-temperature water LHW to the high-temperature water HHW at the hot water storage set temperature Tref by the hot water supply operation. This high-temperature water HHW is returned to the upper layer side of the hot water storage tank 24 through the pipeline 138-2.

[0197] During the operation of the pump 160, it is determined whether the detected temperature T2 is T2 > Tref (S507). If the detected temperature T2 is T2 ≤ Tref (NO in S507), the operation of the pump 160 is continued, and if T2 > Tref (YES in S507), the operation of the pump 160 is stopped (S508 = heat storage stop). At this time, the storage of the high-temperature water HHW (the stored hot water volume Q2) in the hot water storage tank 24 is completed.

[0198] Then, regarding the hot water supply demand, it is determined whether there is a hot water supply demand within a predetermined time, for example, within 3 hours (S509). If there is a hot water supply demand within 3 hours (NO in S509), the process returns to the mode selection (S501), and the processes of S501 to S509 are executed. Also, if there is no hot water supply demand within 3 hours (YES in S509), even if the operating conditions of the pump 160 are satisfied, it waits until a hot water supply demand occurs, that is, the operation stop of the pump 160 is continued (NO in S510), and it is determined whether there is a hot water supply demand (S510). If there is a hot water supply demand (YES in S510), the process returns to the mode selection (S501), and the processes of S501 to S510 are executed.

[0199] <Effect of the Second Embodiment> According to this second embodiment, any of the following effects can be obtained. (1) The same effect as the first embodiment can be obtained also by this second embodiment.

[0200] (2) The high-temperature water HHW stored in the hot water storage tank 24 can be utilized according to the hot water supply demand.

[0201] 〔Third Embodiment〕 <Setting of Tank Hot Water Supply Mode> A in FIG. 23 shows the setting content of the tank hot water supply mode according to the third embodiment. If "tank hot water supply" is assigned to the hot water supply button 234 of the remote control device 10 and "tank hot water supply = ON", the tank hot water supply mode is set. In this tank hot water supply mode, the pump 160 is controlled to be OFF, and hot water of high temperature water HHW or low temperature water LHW is discharged from the hot water storage tank 24 according to the water supply W. When discharging high temperature water HHW, temperature adjustment is performed by the temperature adjustment unit 142, and hot water supply of hot water HW adjusted to the hot water supply set temperature Tset is performed for the high temperature water HHW.

[0202] In this tank hot water supply mode, for example, if the detected temperature Ti (i = 1, 2,..., 5) of the temperature sensor 168-i (i = 1, 2,..., 5) satisfies Ti ≥ Tref, temperature adjustment to the hot water supply set temperature Tset is performed by the temperature adjustment unit 142. Also, if the detected temperature T1 satisfies T1 < Tref, the temperature adjustment to the hot water supply set temperature Tset by the temperature adjustment unit 142 is cancelled. Alternatively, if the detected temperature T8 of the temperature sensor 168-8 that detects the outlet side temperature of the hot water storage tank 24 satisfies T8 < Tref, the temperature adjustment to the hot water supply set temperature Tset by the temperature adjustment unit 142 may be cancelled.

[0203] <Hot Water Supply Operation in Hot Water Supply Mode> B in FIG. 23 shows the time of discharging low temperature water LHW after shifting from discharging high temperature water HHW by the hot water supply operation in the tank hot water supply mode. When high temperature water HHW is stored in the hot water storage tank 24 and water supply W is received, high temperature water HHW is discharged from the hot water storage tank 24, and this high temperature water HHW is mixed with the water supply W and supplied as hot water HW adjusted to the hot water supply set temperature Tset by the temperature adjustment unit 142. When the hot water storage tank 24 shifts to low temperature water LHW after discharging this high temperature water HHW, low temperature water LHW is discharged from the hot water storage tank 24 according to the hot water supply demand. Since the detected temperature of the low temperature water LHW is usually expected to be lower than the hot water supply set temperature Tset, no temperature adjustment is performed by the temperature adjustment unit 142.

[0204] <Processing Procedure of Hot Water Supply Mode> FIG. 24 shows the processing procedure of the tank hot water supply mode. This processing procedure is an example of the function of the hot water supply method or program of the present disclosure.

[0205] In this processing procedure, from the standby state (S601), by operating the hot water supply button 234 of the remote control device 10 to set "tank hot water supply" = ON, the tank hot water supply mode, which is the initial value, is selected (S602).

[0206] When hot water supply is required, in this mode, the hot water storage unit control unit 272 controls the pump 160 = OFF (S603). The hot water storage unit control unit 272 obtains the hot water storage amount information of the high-temperature water HHW based on the detected temperatures Ti (i = 1, 2,..., 5) of the temperature sensors 168-i (i = 1, 2,..., 5), and determines whether the detected temperature Ti satisfies Ti ≧ Tref (S604). If the detected temperature Ti satisfies Ti ≧ Tref (YES in S604), hot water discharge control for discharging high-temperature water HHW from the hot water storage tank 24 is executed (S605), and the process proceeds to S606. If the detected temperature Ti does not satisfy Ti ≧ Tref (NO in S604), S605 is skipped and the process proceeds to S606.

[0207] During the hot water discharge control, the hot water storage unit control unit 272 monitors the detected temperatures Ti of the temperature sensors 168-1 to 168-5, and determines whether the detected temperature T1 satisfies T1 < Tref (S606). If T1 does not satisfy T1 < Tref (NO in S606), the process returns to S604, and the processes of S604 to S606 are executed.

[0208] If the detected temperature T1 satisfies T1 < Tref (YES in S606), the temperature adjustment by the temperature adjustment unit 142 is cancelled, hot water supply of low-temperature water LHW is performed in the tank hot water supply mode, and the process returns to S601, and the processes of S601 to S607 are executed. Alternatively, if the detected temperature T8 of the temperature sensor 168-8 satisfies T8 < Tref, the temperature adjustment to the hot water supply set temperature Tset by the temperature adjustment unit 142 may be cancelled.

[0209] <Effect of the Third Embodiment> According to this third embodiment, any of the following effects can be obtained. (1) Hot water can be supplied from the hot water storage tank 24 based on the output of high-temperature water HHW or low-temperature water LHW.

[0210] (2) When hot water HHW is dispensed from the hot water storage tank 24, hot water HW can be supplied that has been adjusted to the hot water supply set temperature Tset by mixing the hot water HHW with the supply water W.

[0211] [Fourth Embodiment] This fourth embodiment is an alternative tank-based hot water supply mode in which the hot water stored in the storage tank 24 (high-temperature water HHW or low-temperature water LHW) is used for hot water supply when the hot water demand is low, that is, when the water supply flow rate is such that the water heater 8 does not operate.

[0212] Figure 25 shows the processing procedure for another tank hot water supply mode according to the fourth embodiment. When the kitchen system 2 is in standby mode (S701), the hot water storage unit control unit 272 monitors the hot water demand and obtains the water supply amount Wq detected by the water volume sensor 152.

[0213] Let Wref1 be the first lower limit water supply and Wref2 be the second lower limit water supply (>Wref1). For example, let Wref1 = 1 to 1.5 liters / min and Wref2 = 1.6 to 2 liters / min.

[0214] The system determines whether the water supply amount Wq is Wq ≥ Wref2 (S702). If Wq ≥ Wref2 (YES in S702), it executes a hot water supply control to dispense high-temperature water from the hot water storage unit 6 (S703). This hot water supply control involves stopping the pump 160 and applying, for example, the upper water pressure of the water supply W to the hot water storage tank 24, causing high-temperature water HHW to be dispensed from the hot water storage tank 24 according to the upper water pressure. In this case, the temperature adjustment unit 142 mixes the water supply W with the high-temperature water HHW from the hot water storage tank 24 to supply hot water adjusted to the hot water supply set temperature Tset.

[0215] During hot water supply, it is determined whether the water supply amount Wq is Wq ≤ Wref1 (S704). If Wq ≤ Wref1 is not met (NO in S704), the hot water supply control (S703) is continued. This hot water supply control is performed regardless of the temperature detected by the temperature sensors 168-1 to 168-5, and instead of supplying high-temperature water HHW, low-temperature water LHW may be supplied from the hot water storage tank 24.

[0216] If Wq ≤ Wref1 (YES in S704), the hot water supply stops and the system returns to standby mode (S701).

[0217] <Effects of the fourth embodiment> According to this fourth embodiment, one of the following effects can be obtained. (1) By setting a mode in which the water heater 8 is not operated, the desired hot water supply can be achieved by dispensing hot water HHW or cold water LHW stored in the hot water storage tank 24.

[0218] (2) When hot water HHW is dispensed from the hot water storage tank 24, hot water HW can be supplied that has been adjusted to the hot water supply set temperature Tset by mixing the hot water HHW with the supply water W.

[0219] [Other embodiments] Embodiments of this disclosure include the following variations: (1) In the above embodiment, the hot water supply demand of the noodle boiler 4 and the supply of hot water were disclosed, but this disclosure is not limited to the above embodiment, as it can respond not only to the hot water supply demand but also to the hot water supply demand of high temperature water HHW and the water supply demand of low temperature water LHW. The hot water supply mode is an example of the water supply mode, intermittent hot water supply is an example of intermittent water supply, high flow rate hot water supply is an example of high flow rate water supply, low flow rate hot water supply is an example of low flow rate water supply, and continuous hot water supply is an example of continuous water supply.

[0220] (2) In the above embodiment, the noodle boiler control unit 23 is connected to the remote control device 10, and the settings and control of the noodle boiler can be performed by the remote control device 10. However, the noodle boiler control unit 23 may be equipped with a separate remote control device from the remote control device 10, and the noodle boiler control unit 23 may be controlled separately from the hot water storage unit control unit 272 and the hot water heater control unit 274.

[0221] (3) In the above embodiment, a hot water supply process corresponding to the hot water supply demand of the noodle boiler 4 was illustrated, but the kitchen system of this disclosure, which can respond to various hot water supply demands such as high-temperature water and low-temperature water, can also be applied to food washing machines for washing ingredients, dishwashers for washing dishes, etc., and is not limited to cooking equipment.

[0222] (4) In the above embodiment, temperature sensors 168-1, 168-2, ..., 168-5 are installed at positions that specify the hot water storage amounts Q1, Q2, ..., Q5 of the hot water storage tank. However, temperature sensors 168-1, 168-2, ..., 168-5 may also be installed in positions other than the detection positions to detect the hot water storage temperature at the specific positions corresponding to the hot water storage amounts Q1, Q2, ..., Q5. Temperature sensors 168-1, 168-2, ..., 168-5 may be temperature sensors such as infrared sensors that detect the temperature from outside the hot water storage tank 24.

[0223] (5) The water heater 8 may be a heat source that uses a heat source other than the combustion heat of fuel gas G.

[0224] (6) The water heater 8 may be set as a single unit, or it may be set as a multiple unit including multiple water heaters 8.

[0225] (7) In the above embodiment, a maximum of 24 units of hot water output is achieved in the first mode and a maximum of 32 units in the second mode. However, in the first mode, the maximum number of hot water output units of the water heater 8 may be selected as, for example, 16, 20, 22, or 26 units, and in the second mode, a maximum number of units of 24, 28, 30, or 34 units may be achieved by adding the number of units that can be achieved in the hot water storage tank 24, for example, 8 units.

[0226] As described above, the most preferred embodiments and examples of this disclosure have been explained. The technology of this disclosure is not limited to those described above. Various modifications and changes are possible for those skilled in the art based on the gist of the invention as described in the claims or disclosed in the forms for carrying out the invention. It goes without saying that such modifications and changes are within the scope of this disclosure. [Industrial applicability]

[0227] The kitchen system, hot water supply method, and program disclosed herein can meet diverse hot water and water supply needs, including those of cooking equipment such as noodle boilers, food washing machines, and dishwashers, which generate hot water demands that include high-flow hot water supply, low-flow hot water supply, intermittent hot water supply, and continuous hot water supply. This is beneficial as it contributes to improving the efficiency of kitchen operations. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0228] 2. Kitchen System 4. Noodle boiler 6. Hot water storage unit 8. Water heater 10 Remote control device 12. Main unit of the device 14 tanks 16 Water inlet 22 Water inlet 34 Water inlet 18 Drain 20 Water supply nozzles 24 Hot water storage tank 26, 36 Hot water outlet 28 Hot water supply line 30 Hot water supply outlet 32 Supply pipe 38 Return tube 40 Hot water return port 42-1, 42-2, 42-3 signal lines 46 Hot water demand database 48 Hot water flow section 50 Hot water volume section 52 Hot water supply configuration section 54 Hot water supply cycle section 54-1 Cycle Time Section 54-2 Flow section 56 Hot water supply operation unit 56-1 Hourly Hot Water Supply Section 56-2 Operation Count Section 56-21 Operating Days 56-22 Operating Hours Section 56-23 Operation Count Section 56-24 Day Operation Count Section 56-25 Weekly Operation Count Section 56-26 Monthly Operation Count Section 56-27 Years of Operation Count Section 136 Water supply channel 138-1 First pipeline 138-2 Second pipeline 138-3 Third pipeline 142, 284 Temperature adjustment section 144 Water inlet 146 Lower water outlet 148 Hot water return port 150 Hot water outlet 151 Water supply check valve 152 Water volume sensor 154 Pressure Reducing Valve 156, 216 Mixing water control valve 158 Tank check valve 160 pumps 162 Water switching valve 164-1, 64-2 Water control valves 168-1, 168-2, 168-3, 168-4, 168-5, 168-6, 168-7, 168-8, 168-9, 168-10, 220-1, 220-2, 220-3, 220-4 Temperature Sensor 176 Tank drain pipe 178 Tank drain outlet 180 Gas combustion section 182 Heat exchange section 186 Drain Processing Unit 188 burners 204 Primary heat exchanger 206 Secondary heat exchanger 208 Water supply channel 210 Water volume sensor 212 bypass valve 214 hot water outlet path 218 bypass path 228 information display section 230 first operation section 232 opening / closing lid 234 hot water supply button 236 always pour out button 238 scheduled operation button 242-1, 242-2, 242-3, 242-4 display section 246 second operation section 250 lock button 252 pour out setting button 254 business setting button 256 stop setting button 260 menu button 262 hot water supply temperature setting button 264 confirm button 266 return button 270 hot water supply system control section 272 hot water storage unit control section 274 water heater control section 276 remote control section 278-1, 278-2, 278-3, 278-4 processor 280-1, 280-2, 280-3, 280-4 memory 282-1, 282-2, 282-3, 282-4 input / output section 283 scheduled operation control section 286 timer 288 calendar section

Claims

1. Equipment that generates hot water demand, including any of the following types of hot water supply: high-flow hot water supply, low-flow hot water supply, intermittent hot water supply, or continuous hot water supply. A hot water storage unit is provided with a lower section for water supply and an upper section for receiving hot water, with a hot water storage tank on the lower side for storing cold water and the upper side for storing the hot water, and which dispenses the stored water to meet the hot water supply demand of the equipment. A water heater that receives the stored water from the hot water storage unit and generates the high-temperature water to be supplied to the hot water storage unit, A control unit that controls the water heater based on the hot water demand, A kitchen system equipped with [a specific feature / feature].

2. The kitchen system according to claim 1, wherein the water heater is a gas water heater that heats the low-temperature water using the heat of combustion of fuel gas.

3. Furthermore, the kitchen system according to claim 1, further comprising a temperature adjustment unit that adjusts the water being discharged from the hot water storage unit to a temperature below a set temperature.

4. Furthermore, the device includes a schedule information setting unit for setting schedule information that includes one or more of the hot water supply type, hot water supply time, hot water supply amount, or hot water supply temperature of the device. The kitchen system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the water heater or the hot water storage unit according to the schedule information.

5. Furthermore, the control unit has a first mode for controlling hot water output based on the hot water output capacity of the water heater, and a second mode for controlling hot water output based on the hot water output capacity using both the water heater and the hot water storage unit, and when supplying hot water to the equipment, it selects the first mode if the amount of high-temperature water stored in the hot water storage unit is less than a predetermined amount, and selects the second mode if the amount of high-temperature water stored is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, according to claim 1.

6. Furthermore, a first pipeline for flowing the stored water from the hot water storage unit to the hot water heater, A second pipeline for flowing the high-temperature water generated by the water heater to the hot water storage unit, A water volume sensor for detecting the amount of water supplied into the hot water storage unit, The kitchen system according to claim 1, further comprising, wherein the control unit controls the flow rate of the stored water from the hot water storage unit to the hot water heater according to the flow rate detected by the water volume sensor.

7. The kitchen system according to claim 5, wherein the hot water storage unit is provided with a flow control valve in the hot water outlet passage, and the control unit, when the second mode is selected, controls the flow rate through the flow control valve to be less than or equal to the maximum water outlet flow rate of the first mode.

8. A process in which equipment generates a hot water supply demand that includes one of the following types of hot water supply: high-flow hot water supply, low-flow hot water supply, intermittent hot water supply, or continuous hot water supply, A process to meet the hot water supply demand of the equipment by supplying water to the lower layer, receiving hot water to the upper layer, and discharging stored water from a hot water storage unit capable of storing low-temperature water on the lower layer side and the hot water on the upper layer side, A step of controlling a water heater or the hot water storage unit that receives the stored water from the hot water storage unit to generate the high-temperature water in order to meet the hot water demand, A hot water supply method that includes this.

9. Furthermore, the hot water supply method according to claim 8, further comprising the step of adjusting the temperature of the water being discharged to a set temperature or lower when the stored water is discharged from the hot water storage unit.

10. A program that is executed by a computer, A function to acquire information on the hot water demand of equipment that generates hot water demand, including high-flow hot water supply, low-flow hot water supply, intermittent hot water supply, and continuous hot water supply in its hot water supply mode, A water heater that generates high-temperature water by receiving stored water from a hot water storage unit to meet the aforementioned hot water demand, or a function that controls the hot water storage unit, A program that causes the aforementioned computer to execute.

11. Furthermore, the program according to claim 10, wherein when the hot water is discharged from the hot water storage unit, the program causes the computer to execute a function to control a temperature adjustment unit that adjusts the temperature of the discharged water to a set temperature or lower.

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