Heat source system, hot water supply system, hot water supply method and program

Abstract

To provide a heat source system and a heat source device suitable for connection to another hot water supply apparatus, such as an existing hot water supply system or water heater.SOLUTION: A heat source system includes a first heat source device (heat source device 22, 62) and a second heat source device (heat source devices 38-1, 38-2, 38-3) that can be operated independently. The heat source system also includes: a water regulating valve (34) for regulating water supply to the first heat source device; flow rate detection means (flow rate sensor 24) detecting a water supply flow rate; and a control section that opens the water regulating valve to operate the first heat source device when a flow rate reference value for operating the first heat source device is set on the basis of an operating state of the second heat source device and the water supply flow rate has increased to the flow rate reference value or larger.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a hot water supply technology that includes a plurality of heat sources and heats supply water to supply hot water. [Background technology]

[0002] Hot water is produced and supplied, for example, by heating in a hot water supply system. The number of water heaters included in the hot water supply system is set, for example, based on the maximum demand for hot water. That is, the hot water supply system may include multiple water heaters. In a hot water supply system that includes a mixture of tank-type water heaters and tankless water heaters, it is known to select the water heater to be used for hot water supply so as to achieve energy conservation (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-133735 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In an existing hot water supply system, one or more of the water heaters may be removed and a new water heater installed due to various reasons such as breakdowns or equipment updates. Also, a new water heater may be installed in an existing hot water supply system to increase hot water supply capacity. If a water heater compatible with the existing hot water supply system is assumed to be installed, the room for choosing a water heater is narrowed. Also, if a new water heater compatible with the existing hot water supply system is installed, for example, the control system of the hot water supply system will be maintained. This will delay the introduction of other hot water supply systems with excellent energy-saving performance, such as hybrid hot water supply systems.

[0005] When a new hot water supply system is simply connected to an existing hot water supply system, both systems are in operation and on standby to supply hot water. When hot water supply starts, water is supplied to both systems. This causes an inconvenience in that, even if one hot water supply system is in operation and the hot water supply volume is sufficient to start heating the water supply (i.e., the minimum flow rate required for one hot water supply system to start heating the water supply), neither system will start heating the water supply. For example, if the minimum flow rate required for one hot water supply system to start heating is 3 liters per minute, two simply connected hot water supply systems will not start heating until the hot water demand reaches 6 liters per minute, which is twice the minimum flow rate. Therefore, hot water will not be supplied until the demand for hot water increases.

[0006] Patent Document 1 does not disclose or suggest such a problem, and the configuration disclosed in Patent Document 1 cannot solve such a problem.

[0007] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a heat source system and a heat source device that are suitable for connection to an existing hot water supply system or other hot water supply equipment such as a water heater. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the heat source system of the present disclosure, there is provided a heat source system including a first heat source device capable of operating independently, and a second heat source device including a first operating heat source device and a second operating heat source device, the heat source system including a water regulating valve that regulates water supply to the first heat source device, and a flow rate detector that detects the flow rate of water supplied to the first heat source device and the second heat source device. 1. A flow rate detection means; A second flow rate detection means for detecting a supply flow rate to the first operating heat source device, and a third flow rate detection means for detecting a supply flow rate to the second operating heat source device; a first flow rate reference value of the water supply flow rate for operating the first heat source device from a state in which the first operating heat source device of the second heat source device is operating, thereby putting the first heat source device and the first operating heat source device into an operating state; and a second flow rate reference value of the water supply flow rate that is a value smaller than the first flow rate reference value and causes the operating first heat source device to be suspended. and but The first flow rate detected by the first flow rate detection means It is set and In addition to the first operating heat source device and the first heat source device a first supply flow rate value which is a reference value for operating the heat source device in the second operation; and a second supply flow rate value which is a value higher than the first supply flow rate value and which causes the heat source device in the second operation to stop operating. a second flow rate detection means that detects the second flow rate and a second flow rate detection means that detects the third flow rate; Flow rate is set to The first flow rate is equal to or greater than the first flow rate reference value Increased to Canada Then The water regulating valve is opened to operate the first heat source device. hand , When the water flow rate falls below the second flow rate reference value, the water regulating valve is closed to shut down the first heat source device, and the second flow rate When the supply flow rate reaches the first supply flow rate value, the second operating heat source device is operated. hand , after increasing beyond said second supply flow rate value The second supply flow rate value or less Decrease Then, the second operating heat source device is stopped. Let and a control unit.

[0009] In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the hot water supply system of the present disclosure, there is provided a hot water supply system including a first heat source system capable of operating independently, and a second heat source system including a first operating heat source device and a second operating heat source device, the hot water supply system including a water regulating valve that regulates water supply to the first heat source system, and a water supply flow rate detector that detects the water supply flow rate supplied to the first heat source system and the second heat source system. 1. A flow rate detection means; A second flow rate detection means for detecting a supply flow rate to the first operating heat source device, and a third flow rate detection means for detecting a supply flow rate to the second operating heat source device; a first flow rate reference value of the water supply flow rate for operating the first heat source system from a state in which the first operating heat source device of the second heat source system is operating, thereby bringing the first heat source system and the first operating heat source device of the second heat source system into an operating state; and a second flow rate reference value of the water supply flow rate that is a value smaller than the first flow rate reference value and brings the operating first heat source system into a halt. and but The first flow rate detected by the first flow rate detection means It is set and In addition to the first operating heat source device and the first heat source system, a first supply flow rate value which is a reference value for operating the heat source device in the second operation; and a second supply flow rate value which is a value higher than the first supply flow rate value and which causes the heat source device in the second operation to stop operating. a second flow rate detection means that detects the second flow rate and a second flow rate detection means that detects the third flow rate; Flow rate is set to The first flow rate is equal to or greater than the first flow rate reference value Increased to Canada Then The water regulating valve is opened to operate the first heat source system. hand , When the flow rate falls below the second flow rate reference value, the water regulating valve is closed to shut down the first heat source system, and the second flow rate When the supply flow rate reaches the first supply flow rate value, the second operating heat source device is operated. hand , after increasing beyond said second supply flow rate value The second supply flow rate value or less Decrease Then, the second operating heat source device is stopped. Let and a control unit.

[0010] In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the hot water supply method of the present disclosure, there is provided a hot water supply method using a first heat source system capable of operating independently and a second heat source system including a first operating heat source device and a second operating heat source device, the method including a water regulating valve regulating water supply to the first heat source system; 1. A flow rate detection means detects the flow rate of water supplied to the first heat source system and the second heat source system. The first flow rate is and detecting A step of detecting a supply flow rate to the first operating heat source device by a second flow rate detection means, and a step of detecting a supply flow rate to the second operating heat source device by a third flow rate detection means; The control unit: The first flow rate, a first flow rate reference value of the water supply flow rate for operating the first heat source system from a state in which the first operating heat source device of the second heat source system is operating, and bringing the first heat source system and the first operating heat source device of the second heat source system into an operating state; and a second flow rate reference value of the water supply flow rate that is smaller than the first flow rate reference value and that causes the first heat source system in operation to be shut down; is set, and a second flow rate, which is the sum of the supply flow rates detected by the second flow rate detection means and the third flow rate detection means, is set to the first operating heat source device, the first heat source system, and A first supply flow rate value which is a reference value for operating the heat source device in the second operation and a second supply flow rate value that is higher than the first supply flow rate value and causes the second operating heat source device to stop operating; is set, and the first flow rate is The first flow rate reference value or more Increased to Canada Then The water regulating valve is opened to operate the first heat source system. hand , When the flow rate falls below the second flow rate reference value, the water regulating valve is closed to shut down the first heat source system, and the second flow rate When the supply flow rate reaches the first supply flow rate value, the second operating heat source device is operated. hand , after increasing beyond said second supply flow rate value The second supply flow rate value or less Decrease Then, the second operating heat source device is stopped. Let The method includes the steps of:

[0011] In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of a program of the present disclosure, the program is executed by a computer, the program including: a function of regulating water supply to a first heat source device by controlling a water regulation valve; The first heat source device and the second heat source device are supplied with Water supply flow rate The first flow rate is Detect 1. A function of acquiring flow rate information from a flow rate detection means; a function of acquiring information on a second flow rate obtained by adding together a supply flow rate to the heat source device in the first operation of the second heat source device detected by a second flow rate detection means and a supply flow rate to the heat source device in the second operation of the second heat source device detected by a third flow rate detection means; Second heat source device The above A first flow rate reference value of the water supply flow rate for operating the first heat source device from a state in which a first operating heat source device is operating, and bringing the first operating heat source device of the first heat source device and the second heat source device into an operating state. and A second flow rate reference value of the water supply flow rate is set, which is a value smaller than the first flow rate reference value and causes the first heat source device in operation to be suspended. , the second flow rate, the first operating heat source device, the first heat source device and the A first supply flow rate value which is a reference value for operating the second operating heat source device and a second supply flow rate value that is higher than the first supply flow rate value and causes the second operating heat source device to stop operating; is set, and the first flow rate is Above the first flow rate reference value Increase Canada Then The water regulating valve is opened to operate the first heat source device. hand , When the water flow rate falls below the second flow rate reference value, the water regulating valve is closed to shut down the first heat source device, and the second flow rate When the supply flow rate reaches the first supply flow rate value, the second operating heat source device is operated. hand , after increasing beyond said second supply flow rate value The second supply flow rate value or less Decrease Then, the second operating heat source device is stopped. Let The computer is caused to execute the functions. Effect of the Invention

[0012] According to the present disclosure, for example, the following effects can be obtained.

[0013] (1) The heat source device can be connected to a heat source system regardless of the heat source system to which it is connected. When the flow rate of the supply water is low, the supply water does not flow through the heat source device, or the flow of water within the heat source device is suppressed. Therefore, a hot water supply system including a heat source device and a heat source system can supply, for example, the minimum amount of hot water that the heat source system can supply alone, or hot water equivalent to this minimum amount. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hot water supply system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the flow rate of water supply and the operation status of a first heat source system and a second heat source system. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of water and hot water during hot water supply. [Figure 4] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a hot water supply control process. [Diagram 5] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a control process of the first heat source system. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a control process of the second heat source system. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a hot water supply system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a heat source device. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a control system of the first heat source system. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a control system of the first heat source system. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of water supply. [Figure 12] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a control process for bypass water supply. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hot water supply system according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0016] First embodiment

[0017] FIG. 1 shows an example of a hot water supply system according to a first embodiment.

[0018] The hot water supply system 2 includes a water supply path 12, a first heat source system 14, a second heat source system 16, and a hot water supply path 18. The hot water supply system 2 heats the water W supplied through the water supply path 12, and supplies the heated water W, i.e., hot water HW, from the hot water supply path 18. The water W may be cold water, or may be hot water having a temperature equal to or lower than the temperature of the hot water HW.

[0019] The water supply path 12 is connected to, for example, a water pipe, and supplies water W supplied from the water pipe to the first heat source system 14 and the second heat source system 16.

[0020] The first heat source system 14 is connected to the water supply path 12 and the hot water supply path 18. The first heat source system 14 includes a heat source device 22, a flow sensor (FS) 24, and a control unit 26, and heats the water W supplied from the water supply path 12 to supply hot water HW to the hot water supply path 18.

[0021] The heat source device 22 is an example of a first heat source device, and is, for example, a water heater. The heat source device 22 includes a heating unit 32, a water regulation valve 34, an individual water supply pipe 36, and an individual hot water supply pipe 37, and the supply water W flowing through the heat source device 22 is heated by the heating unit 32. The individual water supply pipe 36 is connected to the water supply path 12, and the individual hot water supply pipe 37 is connected to the hot water supply path 18. Therefore, the heat source device 22 is connected to the water supply path 12 and the hot water supply path 18, and is connected in parallel to the second heat source system 16. The heating unit 32 includes, for example, a burner and a heat exchanger, and heats the supply water W with combustion heat generated by, for example, the combustion of gas. The water regulation valve 34 is installed, for example, on the individual hot water supply pipe 37, and changes the flow rate of the supply water W flowing through the heat source device 22. The water regulation valve 34 may be installed on the individual water supply pipe 36. When the water regulating valve 34 is closed, the flow rate of the supply water W is set to zero or nearly zero. In other words, the water regulating valve 34 regulates the flow rate of the supply water W. When the water regulating valve 34 is opened, the supply water W flows through the heat source device 22.

[0022] The flow rate sensor 24 is installed in the water supply path 12. The flow rate sensor 24 is an example of a flow rate detection means, and detects the flow rate of the water supply W supplied to the heat source device 22 of the first heat source system 14 and the second heat source system 16 (hereinafter referred to as the "first flow rate"), and outputs flow rate information of the detected first flow rate to the control unit 26. The flow rate sensor 24 is installed upstream of the heat source device 22 and the second heat source system 16 in the water flow direction in the hot water supply system 2.

[0023] The control unit 26 is connected to the heat source device 22 and the flow sensor 24 in a wireless or wired manner so as to be able to communicate with each other. The control unit 26 includes a computer, acquires flow information of a first flow rate from the flow sensor 24, monitors the first flow rate, and outputs a close instruction signal or an open instruction signal for the water regulation valve 34 to the heat source device 22 based on the first flow rate. The close instruction signal is a first instruction signal and is an instruction signal for closing the water regulation valve 34. The open instruction signal is a second instruction signal and is an instruction signal for opening the water regulation valve 34. The control unit 26 switches the heat source device 22 to a dormant state or an operational state by outputting the close instruction signal or the open instruction signal. In the operational state of the heat source device 22, the water regulation valve 34 is open. Therefore, the heat source device 22 heats the feed water W according to the flow rate of the feed water W flowing through the heat source device 22, for example. In the dormant state of the heat source device 22, the water regulation valve 34 is closed. Therefore, the heat source device 22 does not heat the water W.

[0024] The second heat source system 16 is connected to the water supply path 12 and the hot water supply path 18. The second heat source system 16 is, for example, a multi-system of heat source devices, includes heat source devices 38-1 and 38-2, and heats the water W from the water supply path 12 to supply hot water HW to the hot water supply path 18. The second heat source system 16 can operate independently of the first heat source system 14, and adjusts the heating operation of the second heat source system 16 according to, for example, the flow rate of the water W supplied to the second heat source system 16 (hereinafter referred to as the "second flow rate"). The adjustment of the heating operation includes, for example, changing the number of the heat source devices 38-1 and 38-2 performing the heating operation, and changing the heating amount of each of the heat source devices 38-1 and 38-2. The second heat source system 16 detects the water supply flow rate of the water supply W supplied to each of the heat source devices 38-1, 38-2, for example, by a flow rate sensor of each of the heat source devices 38-1, 38-2, and adds up the water supply flow rates of each of the heat source devices 38-1, 38-2 to obtain a second flow rate. The addition of the water supply flow rates may be performed, for example, by a dedicated control unit, or may be performed by a simple controller of the heat source device 38-1 or heat source device 38-2 designated as the parent unit.

[0025] The heat source devices 38-1 and 38-2 are an example of a second heat source device, and are, for example, water heaters. The heat source devices 38-1 and 38-2 are connected to the water supply path 12 and the hot water supply path 18, and are connected in parallel to the heat source device 22. The heat source devices 38-1 and 38-2 can pass the feedwater W in an operating state, and heat the feedwater W according to the flow rate of the feedwater W flowing through the heat source devices 38-1 and 38-2. The heat source devices 38-1 and 38-2 prevent the feedwater W from passing through in a resting state. The heat source devices 38-1 and 38-2 include control units 40-1 and 40-2, respectively.

[0026] The control units 40-1 and 40-2 include a computer, and are, for example, a multi-controller, and communicate with each other between the control unit 40-1 and the control unit 40-2. The control units 40-1 and 40-2 control the second heat source system 16, such as operating or pausing the heat source devices 38-1 and 38-2, starting or stopping the heating operation, and designating the parent device, based on the second flow rate. The control unit 40-1 transmits, for example, the water supply flow rate of the heat source device 38-1 to the control unit 40-2, and the control unit 40-2 transmits, for example, the water supply flow rate of the heat source device 38-2 to the control unit 40-1. Therefore, for example, each control unit 40-1 and 40-2 can add up the water supply flow rates.

[0027] FIG. 2 shows an example of the relationship between the flow rate of the water supply W and the operating status of the first heat source system 14 and the second heat source system 16. A of FIG. 2 shows an example of the change in the first flow rate over time. B of FIG. 2 shows an example of the opening and closing of the water regulating valve 34. C of FIG. 2 shows an example of the change in the second flow rate over time. D of FIG. 2 shows an example of the number of operating heat source devices 38-1, 38-2 of the second heat source system 16. E of FIG. 2 shows an example of time. The relationship shown in FIG. 2 is just an example. The present disclosure is not limited to such a relationship.

[0028] Fig. 3 shows an example of the flow of cold water and hot water HW during hot water supply. Fig. 3A shows a state where one heat source device is operating, Fig. 3B shows a state where two heat source devices are operating, and Fig. 3C shows a state where three heat source devices are operating.

[0029] Before hot water supply is started, the control unit 26 outputs a close instruction signal for the water regulating valve 34 to close the water regulating valve 34. Before hot water supply is started, the first heat source device of the second heat source system 16 (hereinafter referred to as the "first operating heat source device") is in an operating state. This first operating heat source device is a priority device of the second heat source system 16, and may be either heat source device 38-1 or 38-2. Before hot water supply is started, the first operating heat source device waits in a state capable of heating.

[0030] At time t1, hot water supply is started, and then the first flow rate is increased, for example. When the first flow rate is equal to or greater than 0 and less than the first set value SP1, the control unit 26 maintains the valve closing instruction signal to maintain the water regulation valve 34 in a closed state. That is, the heat source device 22 of the first heat source system 14 maintains a paused state. When the first flow rate is equal to or greater than 0 and less than the first set value SP1, the water supply W passes through the first operating heat source device of the second heat source system 16, for example, the heat source device 38-1, as shown in A of FIG. 3. The second heat source system 16 starts, maintains, or stops the heating operation based on its own control. The first operating heat source device of the second heat source system 16 starts heating when the second flow rate is equal to or greater than 3 liters per minute.

[0031] The first set value SP1 is set to any value within the range from a flow rate value twice the minimum flow rate of the heating operation of the second heat source system 16 (hereinafter referred to as a "flow rate value twice the minimum flow rate") to the maximum flow rate. When the first set value SP1 is equal to or greater than twice the minimum flow rate, the second flow rate after the water regulating valve 34 is opened can be made greater than the minimum flow rate. In other words, the second heat source system 16 is prevented from stopping heating due to a decrease in the second flow rate, and the supply of insufficiently heated hot water HW can be suppressed.

[0032] When the first set value SP1 is equal to or less than the maximum flow rate value, the first heat source system 14 operates before the second heat source system 16 reaches its supply limit of hot water HW, thereby suppressing the supply of insufficiently heated hot water HW.

[0033] This first set value SP1 is preferably set to a flow rate value from twice the minimum flow rate to less than the flow rate value at which the second heat source device of the second heat source system 16 (hereinafter referred to as the "second operating heat source device") starts operating (hereinafter referred to as the "second operating flow rate value"). If the first set value SP1 is less than the second operating flow rate value, the heat source device 22 operates before the second heat source device of the second heat source system 16 operates. Therefore, the number of operating heat source devices increases one by one, and the fluctuation amount of the water supply W flowing into the first operating heat source device and the proportion of the water supply W flowing into the newly operating heat source device 22 can be suppressed. In other words, the supply of hot water HW is suppressed from becoming unstable. In addition, since the number of operating heat source devices increases one by one, the amount of water supply W supplied to each heat source device is suppressed from decreasing below the flow rate required for heating operation. Therefore, all operating heat source devices are suppressed from stopping heating.

[0034] The hot water supply capacity of the heat source device 22 may be the same or approximately the same as the hot water supply capacity of the heat source devices 38-1 and 38-2. In this case, the first set value SP1 may be set based on the hot water supply capacity of the heat source device 22, and may be set to a value within the range of, for example, a flow rate value that is twice the minimum flow rate of the heating operation of the heat source device 22 to a maximum flow rate value.

[0035] The first set value SP1 is set to a value in the range of 8 to 12 liters per minute, for example, 10 liters per minute. In order to heat 15°C water to 60°C at 10 liters per minute, a hot water supply capacity of 18 is required. Here, the number is an index representing the hot water supply capacity. If a heat source device has the capacity to supply N liters of hot water with a water temperature of +25°C per minute, the hot water supply capacity of this heat source device is N. The set value of the hot water supply temperature is, for example, 60°C, and the numbers of the heat source devices 38-1 and 38-2 are, for example, 24, 30, or 50. Therefore, when the first set value SP1 is 10 liters per minute, the operating heat source device has a hot water supply margin of, for example, 6 or more, that is, the capacity to further heat 15°C water to 60°C by 3.3 liters per minute. The water regulating valve 34 can be opened before the second operating heat source device is operated.

[0036] When the first flow rate reaches the first set value SP1 at time t2, the control unit 26 outputs a valve open instruction signal instead of a valve close instruction signal to open the water regulating valve 34. Therefore, when the first flow rate is equal to or greater than the first set value SP1, the water regulating valve 34 is in an open state. Water starts to flow to the heat source device 22 of the first heat source system 14, and the heat source device 22 starts operating. Therefore, as shown in B of FIG. 3, a portion of the feedwater W passes through the first operating heat source device of the second heat source system 16, and the remaining portion of the feedwater W passes through the heat source device 22 of the first heat source system 14. The first heat source system 14 and the second heat source system 16 heat the feedwater W based on their own independent controls.

[0037] When the second flow rate becomes the first supply flow rate value SR1 at time t3, the second heat source system 16 operates the second operating heat source device based on its own control. Therefore, the supply water W passes through either the heat source device 22 of the first heat source system 14 or the heat source devices 38-1 and 38-2 of the second heat source system 16, as shown in C of Fig. 3, and hot water HW in an amount that satisfies the demand is supplied.

[0038] When the supply of hot water HW decreases and the second flow rate becomes the second supply flow rate value SR2 at time t4, the second heat source system 16, based on its own control, shuts down one of the operating heat source devices, i.e., the second operating heat source device at time t4.

[0039] When the supply amount of hot water HW is further decreased and the first flow rate reaches the second set value SP2 at time t5, the control unit 26 outputs a close instruction signal instead of an open instruction signal to close the water regulating valve 34. Therefore, when the first flow rate is equal to or less than the second set value SP2, the water regulating valve 34 is closed and the heat source device 22 of the first heat source system 14 is stopped. After time t5, the water supply W passes through the operating heat source device of the second heat source system 16. The second heat source system 16 starts, maintains, or stops the heating operation based on its own control.

[0040] The second set value SP2 is set to, for example, a value smaller than the first set value SP1. Since the water regulating valve 34 is closed when the first flow rate is smaller than the first set value SP1, when the first flow rate becomes the first set value SP1 again after the water regulating valve 34 is closed, the control unit 26 can output an open instruction signal to the water regulating valve 34. In addition, the second set value SP2 is set to, for example, a value far from the first set value SP1. When the first flow rate oscillates between the first set value SP1 or the second set value SP2, chattering of the water regulating valve 34 is suppressed by the large set value difference between the first set value SP1 and the second set value SP2.

[0041] The second set value SP2 is set, for example, to a value that is half the first set value SP1. The second set value SP2 is set, for example, to a value in the range of 4 to 6 liters per minute, for example, 5 liters per minute.

[0042] After time t5, the second heat source system 16 starts, maintains, or stops the heating operation based on the independent control of the second heat source system 16. At the end of hot water supply at time t6, the water regulating valve 34 is closed and one of the heat source devices of the second heat source system 16 is operating. Therefore, when hot water supply is resumed, the second heat source system 16 can resume the heating operation based on the independent control.

[0043] Fig. 4 is a flow chart showing an example of a hot water supply control process. This hot water supply control process is an example of a hot water supply method of the present disclosure. This hot water supply control process is realized by the control unit 26 of the first heat source system 14 and the control units 40-1, 40-2 of the second heat source system 16 executing a hot water supply control program. The hot water supply control process shown in Fig. 4 is an example, and the hot water supply method of the present disclosure is not limited to such a process. In Fig. 4, S indicates a processing stage.

[0044] When the water regulating valve 34 is in a closed state, the second heat source system 16 operates the first operating heat source device (S101). The first operating heat source device starts a combustion operation under the independent control of the second heat source system 16. When a hot water demand of, for example, 3 liters per minute occurs by opening the hot water tap, the first operating heat source device starts a combustion operation.

[0045] The flow sensor 24 detects the first flow rate (S102) and outputs flow rate information of the first flow rate to the control unit 26. The control unit 26 acquires the flow rate information of the first flow rate and determines whether the first flow rate is equal to or greater than the first set value SP1 (S103). If the first flow rate is less than the first set value SP1 (NO in S103), S102 and S103 are repeated. If the first flow rate is equal to or greater than the first set value SP1 (YES in S103), the control unit 26 outputs a valve open instruction signal to the heat source device 22, and the water regulating valve 34 is opened (S104). With the water regulating valve 34 opened, the heat source device 22 starts operating.

[0046] The control units 40-1 and 40-2 of the second heat source system 16 judge whether the second operating heat source device is to start operating (S105). If the second operating heat source device is to start operating (YES in S105), the control units 40-1 and 40-2 operate the second operating heat source device (S106). The control units 40-1 and 40-2 judge whether the second operating heat source device is to start suspending (S107), and if the second operating heat source device is not to start suspending (NO in S107), S107 is repeated. If the second operating heat source device is to start suspending (YES in S107), the control units 40-1 and 40-2 suspend the second operating heat source device (S108).

[0047] In S105, when the operation of the second operating heat source device is not started (NO in S105), S106 to S108 are skipped.

[0048] The flow rate sensor 24 detects the first flow rate (S109) and outputs flow rate information of the first flow rate to the control unit 26. The control unit 26 acquires the flow rate information of the first flow rate and judges whether the first flow rate is equal to or less than the second set value SP2 (S110). If the first flow rate is greater than the second set value SP2 (NO in S110), S105 to S109 are repeated. If the first flow rate is equal to or less than the second set value SP2 (YES in S110), the control unit 26 outputs a valve closing instruction signal to the heat source device 22, and the water regulating valve 34 is closed (S111). This closing of the water regulating valve 34 prevents or almost prevents the water supply W from passing through to the heat source device 22. Therefore, when hot water supply is resumed after a hot water supply interruption or when the amount of hot water supply is small, the water supply W is prevented from dispersing to the first heat source system 14 side and the second heat source system 16 side. This suppresses the occurrence of a situation in which neither the first heat source system 14 nor the second heat source system 16 performs heating.

[0049] Fig. 5 is a flow chart showing an example of the control process of the first heat source system. This control process is an example of the hot water supply method of the present disclosure. This control process is realized by the control unit 26 executing a hot water supply control program. The control process shown in Fig. 5 is an example, and the hot water supply method of the present disclosure is not limited to such a process. In Fig. 5, S indicates a processing stage.

[0050] The control unit 26 outputs a valve closing instruction signal (S121) to close the water regulating valve 34.

[0051] The control unit 26 acquires flow rate information of the first flow rate (S122) and determines whether the first flow rate is equal to or greater than the first set value SP1 (S123). If the first flow rate is less than the first set value SP1 (NO in S123), S122 and S123 are repeated. If the first flow rate is equal to or greater than the first set value SP1 (YES in S123), the control unit 26 outputs an open valve instruction signal to the heat source device 22 (S124).

[0052] The control unit 26 acquires flow rate information of the first flow rate (S125) and determines whether the first flow rate is equal to or less than the second set value SP2 (S126). If the first flow rate is greater than the second set value SP2 (NO in S126), S125 and S126 are repeated. If the first flow rate is equal to or less than the second set value SP2 (YES in S126), the control process returns to the output of the valve closing instruction signal (S121).

[0053] Fig. 6 is a flow chart showing an example of the control process of the second heat source system. This control process is an example of the hot water supply method of the present disclosure. This control process is realized by the control units 40-1 and 40-2 executing a hot water supply control program. The control process shown in Fig. 6 is an example, and the hot water supply method of the present disclosure is not limited to such a process. In Fig. 6, S indicates a processing stage.

[0054] The first operating heat source device is operated (S141). The operating first operating heat source device is in a state where it can supply water. Therefore, when the hot water demand becomes, for example, 3 liters per minute, the first operating heat source device starts combustion operation. The control units 40-1, 40-2 determine whether the second operating heat source device is to start operation (S142). If the second operating heat source device is not to start operation (NO in S142), S142 is repeated. If the second operating heat source device is to start operation (YES in S142), the control units 40-1, 40-2 operate the second operating heat source device (S143).

[0055] The control units 40-1 and 40-2 determine whether the second operating heat source device is to start suspending (S144). If the second operating heat source device is not to start suspending (NO in S144), S144 is repeated. If the second operating heat source device is to start suspending (YES in S144), the control units 40-1 and 40-2 suspend the second operating heat source device (S145), and the control process returns to S142.

[0056] According to the first embodiment, for example, the following actions and effects can be obtained.

[0057] (1) Regardless of the type of system the second heat source system 16 is, the first heat source system 14 can be connected to the second heat source system 16. When the flow rate of the supply water is low, the supply water W does not flow or hardly flows through the heat source device 22 of the first heat source system 14. Therefore, the hot water supply system 2 can supply the minimum amount of hot water that the second heat source system 16 can supply alone or hot water equivalent to this minimum amount.

[0058] (2) The first heat source system 14 can be connected to the second heat source system 16 even if the manufacturer, communication method, control program generation, system concept, etc. of the second heat source system 16 are different from those of the first heat source system 14.

[0059] (3) The first heat source system 14 can be introduced regardless of the type of existing heat source system, expanding the range of choices for heat source systems or heat source devices when partially replacing an existing heat source system or increasing the hot water supply capacity of an existing heat source system.

[0060] (4) In the future, the heat source devices 38-1, 38-2 of the second heat source system 16 can be replaced with heat source devices that are compatible with the first heat source system 14, for example. Therefore, the second heat source system 16 can be replaced with a hot water supply system that includes the first heat source system 14 and a heat source device or heat source system that is compatible with it, after the first heat source system 14 and the second heat source system 16 have been installed side by side. Second embodiment

[0061] Fig. 7 shows an example of a hot water supply system according to the second embodiment. In Fig. 7, the same components as those in Fig. 1 are given the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0062] The hot water supply system 52 includes a water supply path 12, a first heat source system 54, a second heat source system 16, and a hot water supply path 18. The hot water supply system 52 heats the water supply W supplied through the water supply path 12, and supplies the heated water supply W, i.e., hot water HW, from the hot water supply path 18. The water supply W may be cold water, or may be hot water having a temperature equal to or lower than the temperature of the hot water HW. The water supply path 12, the second heat source system 16, and the hot water supply path 18 are similar to those in the first embodiment, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0063] The first heat source system 54 is connected to the water supply path 12 and the hot water supply path 18. The first heat source system 54 includes heat source devices 58, 62, a hot water storage unit 60, a bypass water supply pipe 61, and a remote control device (not shown). The heat source device 58 and the hot water storage unit 60 are installed upstream of the second heat source system 16 and the heat source device 62 in the water flow direction in the hot water supply system 52. Hot water heated by the heat source device 58 is stored in the hot water storage unit 60. The water supply W including the hot water supplied from the hot water storage unit 60 is heated to a hot water supply temperature by the heat source device 62. In other words, the first heat source system 54 is a hybrid hot water supply system having, for example, a plurality of different types of heat source devices 58, 62, and has a water supply preheating function by the heat source device 58. The water supply W including the hot water supplied from the hot water storage unit 60 may be hot water at a hot water supply temperature, or may be hot water or water below the hot water supply temperature.

[0064] Heat source device 58 is an example of a third heat source device, and is connected to hot water storage unit 60. Heat source device 58 includes a heat source unit such as a heat pump unit, heats water supplied from hot water storage unit 60, for example, by a heat pump, and returns the heated water to hot water storage unit 60. The water supplied from hot water storage unit 60 may be any of cold water, hot water, and high-temperature water. The heated water may be any of hot water and high-temperature water.

[0065] The hot water storage unit 60 includes a hot water storage tank 64, a circulation path 66, a hot water outlet pipe 68, a water supply pipe 70, a mixing valve 72, a flow sensor 24, and a control unit 74-1, and stores water heated by the heat source device 58 in the hot water storage tank 64, and supplies the stored water to the heat source device 62 and the second heat source system 16. The water stored in the hot water storage tank 64 may be any of cold water, warm water, and high-temperature water.

[0066] The hot water tank 64 stores water and supplies the water stored in the tank for hot water supply. The hot water tank 64 has a heat retention function and prevents the temperature of the stored water from decreasing.

[0067] The circulation path 66 includes pipes 66-1, 66-2, and 66-3. The pipe 66-1 is connected to the lower part of the hot water storage tank 64 and the heat source device 58. The pipe 66-2 is connected to the upper part of the hot water storage tank 64 via the heat source device 58 and a switching valve 76 on the pipe 66-3. The pipe 66-3 is a bypass pipe, and is connected to the switching valve 76 and the pipe 66-1. A pump 78 is installed in the pipe 66-1.

[0068] The switching valve 76 switches the destination of the water in the pipe 66-2. When the pump 78 operates in the first switching state of the switching valve 76, the water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank 64 circulates through the pipe 66-1, the heat source device 58, the pipe 66-2, and the pipe 66-3. When the pump 78 operates in the second switching state of the switching valve 76, the water flows into the upper part of the hot water storage tank 64 through the pipe 66-1, the heat source device 58, and the pipe 66-2. Therefore, the water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank 64 is heated by the heat source device 58 to a heating setting temperature such as 80°C, and then returned to the upper part of the hot water storage tank 64.

[0069] The hot water outlet pipe 68 is connected to the upper part of the hot water storage tank 64 and is connected to the water supply path 12 via a mixing valve 72. Therefore, the water from the upper part of the hot water storage tank 64 is supplied to the water supply path 12 through the hot water outlet pipe 68 and the mixing valve 72. The water supply pipe 70 is connected to the lower part of the hot water storage tank 64 and the mixing valve 72, and replenishes water to the lower part of the hot water storage tank 64 and supplies water to the water supply path 12 through the mixing valve 72.

[0070] Mixing valve 72 mixes water flowing from hot water outlet pipe 68 with water flowing from water supply pipe 70 so that the temperature of the water supplied to water supply path 12 becomes a set temperature. Flow rate sensor 24 is installed in water supply path 12 and measures the flow rate of water flowing from mixing valve 72, i.e., the flow rate of water W supplied from hot water storage unit 60.

[0071] Control unit 74-1 is an example of control unit 26 already described in the first embodiment, and includes the functions of control unit 26, as well as the function of controlling hot water storage unit 60 based on the temperatures detected by temperature sensors TH1-TH9.

[0072] The bypass water supply pipe 61 is connected in parallel to the hot water storage unit 60, and the water supply W flowing through the bypass water supply pipe 61 is supplied to the second heat source system 16 and the heat source device 62 through the water supply path 12. The bypass water supply pipe 61 is opened or closed by opening or closing a bypass valve 90 installed in the bypass water supply pipe 61, and the water in the bypass water supply pipe 61 flows or stagnates. The bypass valve 90 is opened or closed by the control unit 74-1 based on, for example, flow rate information of the first flow rate output from the flow sensor 24. Therefore, the water supply W is supplied to the second heat source system 16 and the heat source device 62 through at least one of the hot water storage unit 60 or the bypass water supply pipe 61.

[0073] Fig. 8 shows an example of a heat source device. In Fig. 8, the same parts as in Fig. 1 are given the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0074] The heat source device 62 is an example of the heat source device 22 already described in the first embodiment. Regarding the heat source device 62, a description of the heat source device 22 already described in the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0075] Heat source device 62 is, for example, a water heater having a boiler. Heat source device 62 includes burner 82, heat exchanger 84, mixture ratio distribution valve 87, individual water supply pipe 36 and individual hot water supply pipe 37, water regulating valve 34, bypass path 88, flow rate sensor 89, temperature sensors TH10 to TH12, and control unit 74-2 (FIG. 7).

[0076] The burner 82 and the heat exchanger 84 are an example of the heating section 32 described above, and burn fuel such as gas, oil, kerosene, etc., and heat the feed water W with the heat of the resulting exhaust gas.

[0077] The water regulating valve 34 is installed on the individual hot water supply pipe 37 , and the bypass line 88 is connected to the mixture ratio distribution valve 87 on the individual water supply pipe 36 and the water regulating valve 34 on the individual hot water supply pipe 37 .

[0078] When the water regulating valve 34 opens, the water W flowing through the individual water supply pipe 36 is divided by the mixing ratio distribution valve 87 into two parts, one on the heat exchanger 84 side and the other on the bypass path 88 side, and then combined by the water regulating valve 34 and supplied to the individual hot water supply pipe 37. In this way, the temperature of the hot water HW flowing through the individual hot water supply pipe 37 is adjusted.

[0079] The flow rate sensor 89 and the temperature sensors TH10 to TH12 are used to adjust the combustion in the burner 82 and the amount of feedwater W flowing through the bypass passage.

[0080] 9 and 10 show an example of a control system of the first heat source system.

[0081] The control unit 74-1 of the hot water storage unit 60 includes a processor 92-1, a memory unit 94-1, a system communication unit 96-1, and an input / output unit (I / O) 98-1. The processor 92-1 executes a program stored in the memory unit 94-1 to realize the functions of the control unit 26 described in the first embodiment, and further realizes control functions of the hot water storage unit 60, such as a function of monitoring the temperature of water inside and outside the hot water storage tank 64, a function of circulating water passing through the heat source device 58, and a function of adjusting the mixing ratio of makeup water in the mixing valve 72.

[0082] The memory unit 94-1 stores programs, setting values ​​such as a first setting value SP1 and a second setting value SP2, and information obtained by information processing. The memory unit 94-1 is a recording medium such as a hard disk and a semiconductor memory, and is, for example, a non-volatile memory. The memory unit 94-1 includes a read-only memory (ROM) and a random-access memory (RAM).

[0083] The system communication unit 96-1 is connected to the control unit 74-2 of the heat source device 62 and the control unit 74-3 of the remote control device by a communication cable 100, and transmits and receives control information between the respective units under the control of the processor 92-1. Although the communication cable 100 is shown as a single line, it has, for example, two communication circuits for the control units 74-2 and 74-3.

[0084] The I / O 98-1 is connected to the temperature sensors TH1 to TH9, the flow rate sensor 24, the mixing valve 72, the switching valve 76, and the pump 78, which are installed in the hot water storage unit 60. The I / O 98-1 acquires detection signals from the temperature sensors TH1 to TH9 and the flow rate sensor 24, and outputs control signals to the mixing valve 72, the switching valve 76, and the pump 78.

[0085] The control unit 74-2 of the heat source device 62 controls each functional unit including the water regulating valve 34 based on the detected temperature of each unit. The control unit 74-3 of the remote control device communicates with the control units 74-1, 74-2, and sends instruction signals related to hot water supply, for example, to each of the control units 74-1, 74-2, and displays information sent from each of the control units 74-1, 74-2.

[0086] The control unit 74-2 is a computer, and includes a processor 92-2, a memory unit 94-2, a system communication unit 96-2, and an I / O 98-2. The processor 92-2 controls the heat source device 62 by executing a program stored in the memory unit 94-2.

[0087] The memory unit 94-2 stores programs, setting values, and control information obtained by information processing. The memory unit 94-2 is a recording medium such as a hard disk or a semiconductor memory, and is, for example, a non-volatile memory. The memory unit 94-2 includes a ROM and a RAM.

[0088] The system communication unit 96-2 is connected to the control units 74-1 and 74-3 by a communication cable 100, and transmits and receives control information between the respective units under the control of the processor 92-2.

[0089] The I / O 98-2 is connected to the temperature sensors TH-10, TH-11, TH-12, the burner 82, the water regulating valve 34, the mixture ratio distribution valve 87, the flow rate sensor 89, etc. The I / O 98-2 takes in detection signals from the temperature sensors TH-10, TH-11, TH-12, the flow rate sensor 89, etc., and outputs control outputs to the burner 82, the mixture ratio distribution valve 87, etc.

[0090] The control unit 74-3 is a computer and includes a processor 92-3, a memory unit 94-3, a system communication unit 96-3, and an I / O 98-3. The processor 92-3 executes a program stored in the memory unit 94-3. For example, the processor 92-3 controls a remote control device to display information about the first heat source system 54.

[0091] The memory unit 94-3 stores programs, setting values, and control information obtained by information processing. The memory unit 94-3 is a recording medium such as a hard disk or a semiconductor memory, and is, for example, a non-volatile memory. The memory unit 94-3 includes a ROM and a RAM.

[0092] The system communication unit 96-3 is connected to the control units 74-1 and 74-2 by a communication cable 100, and transmits and receives control information between the respective units under the control of the processor 92-3.

[0093] The I / O 98-3 is connected to an input switch 104 of a remote control device, an operation display unit 106, and the like. The input switch 104 is an example of an operation input unit, and includes, for example, a touch sensor, and is used for turning on the power, inputting a set temperature, etc. The operation display unit 106 includes, for example, a display device such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and displays, for example, as images, control information, input information, and warning information received from the hot water storage unit 60 or the heat source devices 58, 62.

[0094] Hot water HW can be supplied by the hot water supply system 52 performing the hot water supply control process, the control process of the first heat source system, and the control process of the second heat source system, for example, as described in the first embodiment. Description of these processes of the hot water supply system 52 will be omitted.

[0095] Fig. 11 shows an example of the flow of the supply water W. In Fig. 11, arrows indicate the flow of the supply water W.

[0096] When the amount of hot water supply is small, the bypass valve 90 is closed and the water W is supplied to the hot water storage unit 60, as shown in A of Fig. 11. In other words, all of the water W is supplied from the hot water storage unit 60 to the water supply path 12, and therefore all of the water W flows through the flow sensor 24.

[0097] When an increase in water demand causes the flow rate of the water supply W from the hot water storage unit 60, i.e., the first flow rate, to reach the first water supply flow rate (=when the amount of hot water supply is large), the bypass valve 90 is opened, and a first portion of the water supply W is supplied from the hot water storage unit 60 to the water supply path 12, and a second portion of the water supply W is supplied from the bypass water supply pipe 61 to the water supply path 12, as shown in B of Figure 11.

[0098] The first water supply flow rate is equal to or less than the maximum water supply flow rate from the hot water storage unit 60, and is, for example, a flow rate greater than the first set value SP1. When the first water supply flow rate is such a flow rate, the water supply W supplied to the water supply path 12 is not supplied from the bypass water supply pipe 61 before the heat source device 62 is operated, and the control unit 74-1 can determine whether the first flow rate is equal to or greater than the first set value SP1 and output a valve open instruction signal to the heat source device 62. In addition, the flow rate of the water supply W from the hot water storage unit 60 immediately after the bypass valve 90 is opened is adjusted to, for example, a flow rate greater than the second set value SP2. With such an adjustment, the first flow rate does not become equal to or less than the second set value SP2 immediately after the bypass valve 90 is opened, and the control unit 74-1 does not output a valve close instruction signal to the heat source device 62 immediately after the bypass valve 90 is opened.

[0099] When the flow rate of the water supply W from the hot water storage unit 60 becomes the second water supply flow rate due to a decrease in the water supply demand, the bypass valve 90 is closed. The second water supply flow rate is, for example, a flow rate greater than the second set value SP2. By adjusting the second water supply flow rate in this manner, when the second portion of the water supply W is being supplied from the bypass water supply pipe 61, the flow rate of the water supply W from the hot water storage unit 60 does not become equal to or less than the second set value SP2. In other words, when the flow rate of the water supply W from the hot water storage unit 60 becomes the second set value SP2, all of the water supply W is being supplied from the hot water storage unit 60 to the water supply path 12. Therefore, the control unit 74-1 can determine whether the first flow rate is equal to or less than the second set value SP2 without considering the water supply W from the bypass water supply pipe 61, and output a valve closing instruction signal to the heat source device 62.

[0100] Fig. 12 is a flow chart showing an example of the control process of the bypass water supply. This control process is an example of the hot water supply method of the present disclosure, and is realized, for example, by the control unit 74-1 executing a hot water supply control program. The control process shown in Fig. 12 is an example, and the hot water supply method of the present disclosure is not limited to such a process. In Fig. 12, S indicates a processing stage.

[0101] For example, the control unit 74-1 outputs a valve closing instruction signal to the bypass valve 90 (S161) to close the bypass valve 90.

[0102] The control unit 74-1 acquires flow rate information of the first flow rate (S162) and determines whether the first flow rate is equal to or greater than the first feedwater flow rate (S163). If the first flow rate is less than the first feedwater flow rate (NO in S163), S162 and S163 are repeated. If the first flow rate is equal to or greater than the first feedwater flow rate (YES in S163), the control unit 74-1 outputs an open valve instruction signal to the bypass valve 90 (S164) to open the bypass valve 90.

[0103] The control unit 74-1 acquires flow rate information of the first flow rate (S165) and determines whether the first flow rate is equal to or less than the second feedwater flow rate (S166). If the first flow rate is greater than the second feedwater flow rate (NO in S166), S165 and S166 are repeated. If the first flow rate is equal to or less than the second feedwater flow rate (YES in S166), the control process returns to the output of the valve open instruction signal (S161), and the control unit 74-1 closes the bypass valve 90.

[0104] The second feedwater flow rate is set to a value different from the first feedwater flow rate. The setpoint difference between the first and second feedwater flow rates suppresses chattering of the bypass valve 90.

[0105] According to the second embodiment, for example, the same actions and effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained. Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, for example, the following actions and effects can be obtained.

[0106] (1) The heat source device 58 and the hot water storage unit 60 of the first heat source system 54 are installed upstream of the second heat source system 16 and the heat source device 62. Therefore, the supply water W can be preheated by the heat source device 58 and the hot water storage unit 60. When the heat source device 58 includes a heat pump unit, carbon dioxide is not emitted from the heat source device 58 when the supply water W is heated, so that the amount of carbon dioxide emitted from the hot water supply system 52 can be suppressed and energy consumption, particularly primary energy, can be reduced.

[0107] (2) The flow rate sensor 24 and the control unit 74-1 included in the hot water storage unit 60 can be used to detect and monitor the flow rate of the supply water W flowing through the second heat source system 16 and the heat source device 62.

[0108] (3) When the second heat source system 16 is a multi-system including a plurality of interconnected water heaters, it is possible to connect, for example, a hybrid water heating system including a heat pump and a water heater without establishing communication with the multi-system. The hybrid water heating system can be introduced when partially replacing an existing multi-system.

[0109] (4) For example, when part of a gas water heater multi-system breaks down, or when you want to introduce a hybrid water heating system that includes an energy-saving heat source device such as a heat pump and a solar water heater, you can introduce equipment or systems from a different manufacturer.

[0110] (5) For example, a hybrid system with different communication methods and a gas water heater multi-system can operate as a single system. Third embodiment

[0111] Fig. 13 shows an example of a hot water supply system according to the third embodiment. In Fig. 13, the same components as those in Fig. 1 or 7 are given the same reference numerals.

[0112] The hot water supply system 112 includes a water supply path 12, a first heat source system 114, a second heat source system 116, and a hot water supply path 18. The hot water supply system 112 heats the water supply W supplied through the water supply path 12, and supplies the heated water supply W, i.e., hot water HW, from the hot water supply path 18. The water supply path 12 and the hot water supply path 18 are similar to those in the first and second embodiments, and their description will be omitted. The second heat source system 16 shown in Figs. 1 and 7 includes two heat source devices 38-1 and 38-2, while the second heat source system 116 includes three heat source devices 38-1, 38-2, and 38-3. Except for the number of heat source devices, the second heat source system 116 is similar to the second heat source system 16, and their description will be omitted.

[0113] The first heat source system 54 shown in Fig. 7 includes one set consisting of a heat source device 58 and a hot water storage unit 60, whereas the first heat source system 114 shown in Fig. 13 includes a first set consisting of a heat source device 58-1 and a hot water storage unit 60-1, and a second set consisting of a heat source device 58-2 and a hot water storage unit 60-2. The first heat source system 114 includes the first and second sets, a bypass water supply pipe 61, a heat source device 62, and a remote control device (not shown).

[0114] The control units 74-1 of the hot water storage units 60-1 and 60-2 are connected to each other by wire or wirelessly and can communicate with each other. The control units 74-1 are further connected to the control unit 74-2 of the heat source device 62 by wire or wirelessly. Therefore, the control units 74-1 include the functions of the control unit 26 and have the function of controlling the hot water storage units 60-1 and 60-2.

[0115] One of the two control units 74-1 is set as the master (master control unit), and the other is set as the slave (slave control unit). The master control unit acquires flow rate information of the water supply W detected by the flow rate sensor 24 connected to the slave control unit through the slave control unit. The master control unit adds up the flow rate information acquired from the slave control unit and the flow rate information of the water supply W detected by the flow rate sensor 24 connected to the master control unit to acquire the first flow rate described in the first embodiment. The master control unit acquires the first flow rate, monitors the first flow rate, and outputs an open valve instruction signal or a close valve instruction signal for the water regulating valve 34 to the heat source device 62 based on the first flow rate.

[0116] The bypass water supply pipe 61 is connected in parallel to the hot water storage units 60-1 and 60-2. Therefore, the water supply W is supplied to the second heat source system 16 and the heat source device 62 through at least one of the hot water storage units 60-1 and 60-2 or the bypass water supply pipe 61.

[0117] The other configurations are similar to those of the first and second embodiments, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0118] According to the third embodiment, for example, the same actions and effects as those of the second embodiment can be obtained. Also, according to the third embodiment, for example, the following actions and effects can be obtained.

[0119] (1) Since the hot water supply system 112 has two sets of a heat source device and a hot water storage unit, the supply amount of preheated hot water can be increased. The number of sets of a heat source device and a hot water storage unit may be one or three or more. In other words, the number of sets of a heat source device and a hot water storage unit can be set according to, for example, the expected hot water demand. Therefore, it is possible to suppress carbon dioxide emissions according to, for example, the expected hot water demand, and to reduce energy consumption, particularly primary energy.

[0120] Modifications of the first, second and third embodiments are listed below.

[0121] (1) The first set value SP1 and the second set value SP2 are set to, for example, 10 liters per minute and 5 liters per minute, respectively, but may be other values.

[0122] (2) The heat source devices 22, 62 of the first heat source system 14, 54 are in operation before the second operating heat source device of the second heat source system 16 is in operation, but the heat source devices 22, 62 may start operation after the second operating heat source device is in operation and before the hot water supply capacity of the second heat source system 16 reaches its limit.

[0123] (3) The second heat source system 16 includes two heat source devices 38-1 and 38-2. However, the number of heat source devices in the second heat source system 16 may be one or three or more. When the number of heat source devices in the second heat source system 16 is three or more, the heat source devices 22 and 62 of the first heat source system 14 and 54 may operate after the first operating heat source device of the second heat source system 16, and the heat source devices 22 and 62 may start operating after the last heat source device of the second heat source system 16 operates. When the heat source devices 22 and 62 start operating after the last heat source device of the second heat source system 16 operates, the hot water supply system 2 and 52 can supply hot water HW by the independent control of the second heat source system 16, without relying on the control of the first heat source system 14 and 54, from the start of hot water supply until close to the limit of the hot water supply capacity of the second heat source system 16. Since the heat source devices 22, 62 are operated before the hot water supply capacity of the second heat source system 16 reaches its limit, the hot water supply systems 2, 52 can meet the hot water demand that exceeds the hot water supply capacity of the second heat source system 16.

[0124] In order for the heat source devices 22, 62 of the first heat source system 14, 54 to start operating after the last heat source device of the second heat source system 16 has started operating, for example, the maximum hot water capacity of the second heat source system 16 and the water supply flow rate when supplying hot water HW at the maximum hot water capacity are determined in advance, and the first set value SP1 is adjusted so that the heat source devices 22, 62 start operating before this water supply flow rate is reached.

[0125] In a series of hot water supply operations of the hot water supply systems 2, 52, when all heat source devices of the second heat source system 16 are in operation, the heat source devices 22, 62 of the first heat source system 14, 54 start operation, so the number of combustions, combustion time and combustion load of the heat source devices 22, 62 are suppressed, and the lifespan of the heat source devices 22, 62 can be extended. This makes it possible to facilitate the transition of the hot water supply systems 2, 52 from a state in which the first heat source system 14, 54 and the second heat source system 16 coexist to a system in which only the first heat source system 14, 54 is used.

[0126] The number of heat source devices in the second heat source system 116 may be four or more. Also, the heat source device 62 in the first heat source system 114 may start operating after the first operating heat source device in the second heat source system 116, and the heat source device 62 may start operating after the last heat source device in the second heat source system 116 starts operating.

[0127] (4) The second heat source system 16, 116 adjusts the heating operation of the second heat source system 16, 116 in accordance with the flow rate (second flow rate) of the feed water W supplied to the second heat source system 16, 116, but this second flow rate may be the flow rate of the hot water HW supplied from the second heat source system 16, 116. In other words, the second heat source system 16, 116 may adjust the heating operation of the second heat source system 16, 116 in accordance with the flow rate (second flow rate) of the hot water HW supplied from the second heat source system 16, 116. In this case, the second heat source system 16, 116 detects the flow rate of the hot water HW from each heat source device 38-1, 38-2, 38-3, for example, with a flow rate sensor of each heat source device 38-1, 38-2, 38-3, and adds up the flow rates of the hot water HW from each heat source device 38-1, 38-2, 38-3 to obtain a second flow rate. Since the amount of the water supply W supplied to each heat source device 38-1, 38-2, 38-3 is the same or approximately the same as the amount of the hot water HW supplied from each heat source device 38-1, 38-2, 38-3, the second heat source system 16, 116 can adjust the heating operation of the second heat source system 16, 116 according to the flow rate of the hot water HW, similar to the adjustment according to the flow rate of the water supply W.

[0128] (5) The hot water supply systems 52 and 112 include a bypass water supply pipe 61 and supply the water W through a plurality of pipes arranged in parallel. However, the bypass water supply pipe 61 may be omitted. The water W may be supplied through the hot water storage unit 60, and the flow rate of the water W may be detected by the flow rate sensor 24.

[0129] (6) Although the flow rate sensor 24 of the hot water storage units 60, 60-1, and 60-2 detects the flow rate of the water supply W, the hot water supply systems 52, 112 may include a flow rate sensor or flow rate detection means that detects the flow rate of the water supply W separately from the flow rate sensor 24.

[0130] (7) Although the control unit 74-1 of the hot water storage units 60, 60-1, 60-2 of the first heat source system 54, 114 outputs an open valve instruction signal and a close valve instruction signal, the hot water supply systems 52, 112 may have a control unit that outputs an open valve instruction signal and a close valve instruction signal separately from the control unit 74-1. If the hot water supply systems 52, 112 have a control unit that outputs an open valve instruction signal and a close valve instruction signal separately from the control unit 74-1, the load of the control unit 74-1 can be distributed.

[0131] (8) The heat source devices 58, 58-1, 58-2 of the first heat source system 54, 114 are not limited to heat pump units as long as they can heat water. The heat source devices 58, 58-1, 58-2 may be, for example, solar water heaters that heat water using sunlight or cogeneration systems.

[0132] (9) The heat source devices 38-1, 38-2, and 38-3 of the second heat source system 16 and 116 may be water heaters having a configuration similar to that of the heat source device 62 shown in FIG.

[0133] (10) In the above embodiment, the control unit 26, 74-1 of the first heat source system 14, 54, 114 outputs an open valve instruction signal and a close valve instruction signal to open and close the water regulating valve 34. The water regulating valve 34 may be opened and closed, for example, via the control unit of the heat source device 22 or the control unit 74-2 of the heat source device 62. In other words, the open valve instruction signal and the close valve instruction signal may be transmitted to the control unit of the heat source device 22 or the control unit 74-2 of the heat source device 62, and the control unit of the heat source device 22 or the control unit 74-2 of the heat source device 62 may open and close the water regulating valve 34.

[0134] (11) In the second embodiment, the first water supply flow rate is equal to or less than the maximum water supply flow rate from the hot water storage unit 60, and is, for example, a flow rate greater than the first set value SP1. The second water supply flow rate is, for example, a flow rate greater than the second set value SP2. However, the first water supply flow rate and the second water supply flow rate may be other flow rates, and the control unit 74-1 may output a valve open instruction signal or a valve close instruction signal taking into account the flow rate of the water supply W supplied from the bypass water supply pipe 61.

[0135] (12) In the above embodiment, the water regulating valve 34 is simply opened and closed. However, when the hot water demand exceeds the hot water supply capacity, the water regulating valve 34 may adjust the water flow rate under the control of the control unit.

[0136] As explained above, the most preferred embodiment of the present disclosure has been described, however, the present disclosure is not limited to the above description, and it goes without saying that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and changes based on the gist of the invention described in the claims or disclosed in the specification, and such modifications and changes are naturally included in the scope of the present disclosure. [Industrial Applicability]

[0137] INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present disclosure is suitable and useful for installing in addition to a heat source system installed in a small store or a large store in order to replace a portion of the device of the heat source system or to increase the hot water supply capacity. [Explanation of symbols]

[0138] 2, 52, 112 Hot water system 12 Water supply route 14, 54, 114 First heat source system 16, 116 Second heat source system 18 Hot water supply route 22, 62 Heat source device (first heat source device) 38-1, 38-2, 38-3 Heat source device (second heat source device) 24 Flow Sensor 26, 74-1 Control section 32 Heating section 34 Water Regulating Valve 36 Individual water supply pipes 37 Individual hot water pipe 58, 58-1, 58-2 Heat source device (third heat source device) 60, 60-1, 60-2 hot water storage unit 61 Bypass water supply pipe 64 Hot Water Tank 66 Circulation route 68 Outlet pipe 70 Water supply pipe 72 Mixing valve

Claims

1. A heat source system including a first heat source device capable of operating independently and a second heat source device including a first operating heat source device and a second operating heat source device, a water regulating valve that regulates water supply to the first heat source device; a first flow rate detection means for detecting a flow rate of water supplied to the first heat source device and the second heat source device; A second flow rate detection means for detecting a supply flow rate to the first operating heat source device; a third flow rate detection means for detecting a supply flow rate to the second operating heat source device; A first flow rate reference value of the water supply flow rate for operating the first heat source device to put the first heat source device and the first operating heat source device into an operating state from a state in which the first operating heat source device of the second heat source device is operating, and a second flow rate reference value of the water supply flow rate for suspending the first heat source device that is operating, which is a value smaller than the first flow rate reference value, are set to a first flow rate detected by the first flow rate detection means, and a first supply flow rate value which is a reference value for operating the first operating heat source device and the second operating heat source device in addition to the first heat source device, and a second supply flow rate value which is a value higher than the first supply flow rate value and which is set to the second a control unit which sets a second supply flow rate value for suspending operation of an operating heat source device to a second flow rate obtained by adding together the supply flow rates detected by the second flow rate detection means and the third flow rate detection means, opens the water regulating valve to operate the first heat source device when the first flow rate increases to or above the first flow rate reference value, closes the water regulating valve to suspend the first heat source device when the first flow rate decreases to or below the second flow rate reference value, operates the second operating heat source device when the second flow rate reaches the first supply flow rate value, and suspends the second operating heat source device when the second flow rate increases beyond the second supply flow rate value and then decreases to or below the second supply flow rate value; A heat source system including:

2. A hot water supply system including a first heat source system capable of operating independently and a second heat source system including a first operating heat source device and a second operating heat source device, a water regulating valve that regulates water supply to the first heat source system; a first flow rate detection means for detecting a flow rate of water supplied to the first heat source system and the second heat source system; A second flow rate detection means for detecting a supply flow rate to the first operating heat source device; a third flow rate detection means for detecting a supply flow rate to the second operating heat source device; A first flow rate reference value of the water supply flow rate for operating the first heat source system from a state in which the first operating heat source device of the second heat source system is operating to put the first heat source system and the first operating heat source device of the second heat source system into an operating state, and a second flow rate reference value of the water supply flow rate which is a value smaller than the first flow rate reference value and causes the operating first heat source system to be suspended are set to a first flow rate detected by the first flow rate detection means, and a first supply flow rate value which is a reference value for operating the second operating heat source device in addition to the first operating heat source device and the first heat source system, and a second supply flow rate value which is higher than the first supply flow rate value a control unit which operates the heat source device in the second operation by opening the water regulating valve when the first flow rate increases to or above the first flow rate reference value, and closes the water regulating valve to suspend the first heat source system when the first flow rate decreases to or below the second flow rate reference value, operates the heat source device in the second operation when the second flow rate reaches the first supply flow rate value, and suspends the heat source device in the second operation when the second flow rate increases beyond the second supply flow rate value and then decreases to or below the second supply flow rate value; , including a hot water system.

3. A hot water supply method for supplying hot water using a first heat source system capable of operating independently and a second heat source system including a first operating heat source device and a second operating heat source device, A water regulating valve regulating water supply to the first heat source system; A step of detecting a first flow rate, which is a feedwater flow rate supplied to the first heat source system and the second heat source system, by a first flow rate detection means; A step of detecting a supply flow rate to the first operating heat source device by a second flow rate detection means; a step of detecting a supply flow rate to the second operating heat source device by a third flow rate detection means; A control unit sets, to the first flow rate, a first flow rate reference value of the water supply flow rate for operating the first heat source system from a state in which the first operating heat source device of the second heat source system is operating, and bringing the first heat source system and the first operating heat source device of the second heat source system into an operating state, and a second flow rate reference value of the water supply flow rate that is a value smaller than the first flow rate reference value and brings the operating first heat source system into a halt, and sets, to the first flow rate, a second flow rate that is a sum of supply flow rates detected by the second flow rate detection means and the third flow rate detection means, a step of setting a first supply flow rate value which is a reference value for operation, and a second supply flow rate value which is a value higher than the first supply flow rate value and which suspends operation of the heat source device in the second operation, opening the water regulating valve to operate the first heat source system when the first flow rate increases to or above the first flow rate reference value, closing the water regulating valve to suspend operation of the first heat source system when the first flow rate decreases to or below the second flow rate reference value, operating the heat source device in the second operation when the second flow rate reaches the first supply flow rate value, and suspending operation of the heat source device in the second operation when the second flow rate increases beyond the second supply flow rate value and then decreases to or below the second supply flow rate value; A hot water supply method comprising:

4. A program for causing a computer to execute the program, A function of restricting water supply to the first heat source device by controlling a water restriction valve; a function of acquiring flow rate information from a first flow rate detection means for detecting a first flow rate, which is a water supply flow rate supplied to the first heat source device and the second heat source device; a function of acquiring information on a second flow rate obtained by adding together a supply flow rate to the heat source device in the first operation of the second heat source device detected by a second flow rate detection means and a supply flow rate to the heat source device in the second operation of the second heat source device detected by a third flow rate detection means; The first flow rate is set to a first flow rate reference value of the water supply flow rate for operating the first heat source device from a state in which the first operating heat source device of the second heat source device is operating, thereby putting the first heat source device and the first operating heat source device of the second heat source device into an operating state, and a second flow rate reference value of the water supply flow rate that is a value smaller than the first flow rate reference value and causes the operating first heat source device to be suspended, and the second flow rate is set to a first supply flow rate value that is a reference value for operating the first operating heat source device, the first heat source device, and the second operating heat source device. a function of setting a second supply flow rate value that is higher than the first supply flow rate value and suspends operation of the heat source device in the second operation, opening the water regulating valve to operate the first heat source device when the first flow rate increases to or above the first flow rate reference value, closing the water regulating valve to suspend the first heat source device when the first flow rate decreases to or below the second flow rate reference value, operating the heat source device in the second operation when the second flow rate reaches the first supply flow rate value, and suspending the heat source device in the second operation when the second flow rate increases beyond the second supply flow rate value and then decreases to or below the second supply flow rate; A program for causing the computer to execute the above.

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