Hot water supply system

Abstract

To provide a hot-water supply system which can improve the convenience for a user.SOLUTION: In a hot-water supply system 1, remote control devices 10, 20 include display units 13, 23, multiple function switches F1-F10 arranged along outer peripheries 13E, 23E of the display units 13, 23, and control units 11, 21, respectively. The control units 11, 21 each are configured to execute: determination processing for determining connected option devices 70, 80; allocation processing for allocating, based on results of the determination processing, each of operation functions for operating a hot-water dispenser 90 and the connected option devices 70, 80 to each of the function switches F1-F10; and operation name display processing for displaying operation names indicating the operation functions allocated in the allocation processing, in positions adjacent to the function switches F1-F10 on the display units 13, 23.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a hot water supply system.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an example of a conventional hot water supply system. This hot water supply system includes a hot water supply device and a remote control device. The hot water supply device has heating means and heats the supplied water by the heating means to supply hot water. The remote control device remotely operates the hot water supply device. A plurality of option devices can be connected to the hot water supply device.

[0003] The remote control device has a display unit, a plurality of operation switches, and a controller. The display unit has an arbitrary information display unit that can arbitrarily display characters and graphics.

[0004] In the remote control device, the controller discriminates the connected option device based on the unique identification code transmitted from the connected option device. Then, based on the discrimination result, the controller operates the connected option device using the display unit and the plurality of operation switches.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] By the way, in the conventional hot water supply system described above, when an optional device that has been retrofitted to the hot water supply unit is operated using a remote control, the user may have to input multiple operations into multiple operation switches, navigate from the main menu displayed on the optional information display unit to a hierarchical menu, reach the operation menu for the connected optional device, and then operate the connected optional device. In this case, the number of operations the user has to input is large, and the user is likely to find it troublesome. As a result, it is difficult to improve user convenience with this hot water supply system.

[0007] This invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned conventional circumstances, and aims to solve the problem of providing a hot water supply system that can improve user convenience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The present invention provides a hot water supply system comprising a hot water supply device having a heating means, which heats supplied water with the heating means and dispenses hot water, The hot water supply system is further equipped with a remote control device for remotely operating the hot water supply system. A hot water supply system to which multiple optional devices can be connected, The remote control device includes a dot matrix type display unit, A plurality of function switches are arranged along the outer edge of the display unit, to which multiple operating functions for operating the hot water supply device and the optional device can be assigned, It includes a control unit that controls the display unit and receives operation inputs from the plurality of function switches, The control unit performs a determination process to identify the connected optional device, Based on the results of the discrimination process, an assignment process is performed to assign each of the multiple operating functions for operating the hot water supply device and the connected optional device to the multiple function switches, The system is characterized by being configured to perform an operation name display process, which displays an operation name representing the operation function assigned by the assignment process at a position adjacent to each of the plurality of function switches in the display unit.

[0009] In the hot water supply system of the present invention, the control unit of the remote control device for remotely operating the hot water supply device performs discrimination processing, assignment processing, and operation name display processing. As a result, when a user wants to have an optional device connected later perform a desired operation using the remote control device, they can have the connected optional device perform that operation by pressing a function switch that displays the function name representing the operation function corresponding to that operation. Consequently, this hot water supply system can significantly reduce the number of user inputs compared to the conventional hot water supply system described above, and can reduce the feeling that the user finds it troublesome.

[0010] Therefore, the hot water supply system of the present invention can improve user convenience. Furthermore, since this hot water supply system eliminates the need to replace the remote control device with one that has dedicated operation switches for optional devices in addition to the normal operation switches, or to install a separate remote control device dedicated to optional devices, it can reduce the installation cost of optional devices.

[0011] The hot water supply system of the present invention preferably further includes a storage unit that stores a data table that defines the priority of each of the multiple operating functions. It is desirable that the multiple function switches are ranked according to their frequency of operation. Furthermore, it is desirable that the control unit, in the assignment process, refers to the data table and assigns higher-priority operating functions to higher-ranking function switches.

[0012] In this case, users can operate frequently used function switches to execute high-priority functions, further improving user convenience.

[0013] It is desirable that the remote control device has a bathroom remote control installed in the bathroom. Furthermore, when an optional device with functions that are performed in the bathroom is connected to the hot water supply system, it is desirable that the control unit, in the assignment process, assign the operation function corresponding to the function performed in the bathroom to at least one of the multiple function switches on the bathroom remote control.

[0014] In this case, while the user is in the bathroom, optional devices that have functions that are used in the bathroom can be easily operated using the bathroom remote control.

[0015] It is desirable that the remote control system includes a bathroom remote control installed in the bathroom and a kitchen remote control installed in the kitchen. Furthermore, when an optional device with functions that are performed in the bathroom is connected to the hot water supply system, it is desirable that the control unit, in the assignment process, assign the operation functions corresponding to the functions performed in the bathroom to at least one of the multiple function switches of the bathroom remote control. In addition, it is desirable that the control unit assign only the operation functions that correspond to the optional device with functions that are performed in the bathroom and that need to be remotely controlled from the kitchen to at least one of the multiple function switches of the kitchen remote control.

[0016] In this case, when the user is in the bathroom, optional devices that perform functions in the bathroom can be easily operated using the bathroom remote control. Furthermore, when the user is in the kitchen, the operating functions of the optional devices that perform functions in the bathroom, which need to be remotely controlled from the kitchen, can be executed using the kitchen remote control. Since unnecessary operating functions are not assigned to the multiple function switches on the kitchen remote control, user convenience can be further improved.

[0017] In the discrimination process, the control unit should preferably identify the connected optional device by communicating directly with the connected optional device or via the hot water supply system. Furthermore, it is desirable for the control unit to repeatedly perform the discrimination process, assignment process, and operation name display process immediately after the hot water supply system is started up.

[0018] In this case, for the option device determined by the hot water supply device immediately after startup, when a problem such as a failure occurs thereafter, the determination process, allocation process, and operation name display process that are repeatedly executed can exclude the option device in which the problem has occurred. As a result, this hot water supply system can prevent the user from mistakenly thinking that they can operate the option device in which the problem has occurred, and thus can further improve the convenience for the user.

Advantages of the Invention

[0019] According to the hot water supply system of the present invention, the convenience for the user can be improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the hot water supply system of the embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the hot water supply system of the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a front view of the kitchen remote control. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front view of the bathroom remote control. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a program executed by the hot water supply device to obtain installation information of the bathroom heating and drying machine. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a program executed by the hot water supply device to obtain installation information of the microbubble bath device. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of programs respectively executed by the kitchen remote control and the bathroom remote control. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of programs respectively executed by the kitchen remote control and the bathroom remote control. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a data table related to the kitchen remote control. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a data table related to the bathroom remote control. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0021] The following describes embodiments of the present invention with reference to the drawings.

[0022] (Examples) As shown in Figure 1, the hot water supply system 1 of the embodiment is an example of a specific embodiment of the hot water supply system of the present invention and is applied to a house H1.

[0023] House H1 includes a kitchen R1, a bathroom R2, and a dressing room R3. A mixer tap 5 is installed on the sink in kitchen R1. Bathroom R2 includes a bathtub 3 and a mixer tap and shower (not shown).

[0024] The hot water supply system 1 includes a hot water supply device 90 installed in the house H1, a kitchen remote control 10 installed in the kitchen R1, and a bathroom remote control 20 installed in the bathroom R2.

[0025] The kitchen remote control 10 and the bathroom remote control 20 are examples of the "remote control device" of the present invention. As will be explained in detail later, the kitchen remote control 10 and the bathroom remote control 20 remotely operate the hot water supply device 90.

[0026] <Hot water supply system> The hot water supply system 90 has a well-known configuration, so its explanation will be kept brief, but it includes a heating means 99 and a heat exchanger and circulation pump, etc., which are not shown. The heating means 99 is a gas burner that burns fuel gas such as city gas to generate high-temperature combustion gas. The hot water supply system 90 circulates water supplied from a water supply, etc., through a heat exchanger (not shown), and heats the water by exchanging heat with the combustion gas generated by the heating means 99, thereby dispensing hot water.

[0027] The hot water supply unit 90 is connected to the mixing faucet 5 by a kitchen supply pipe P1A. The hot water supply unit 90 is also connected to the bathtub 3 by a bathtub supply pipe P3A and a bathtub return pipe P3B. The hot water supply unit 90 performs circulating heating by circulating hot water between the bathtub 3 and a heat exchanger (not shown) using a circulation pump (not shown) and heating it with a heating means 99.

[0028] The hot water supply device 90 heats water supplied from a water tap or the like using a heating means 99 and dispenses hot water to the kitchen R1 and bathroom R2.

[0029] More specifically, the hot water supply unit 90 is capable of supplying hot water to the mixing faucet 5 in the kitchen R1 and to the mixing faucet and shower in the bathroom R2 (not shown). In addition, the hot water supply unit 90 is capable of performing an automatic hot water filling operation to automatically fill the bathtub 3 in the bathroom R2, a reheating operation to heat the water in the bathtub 3, a hot water refill operation to add hot water to the bathtub 3, and a cold water refill operation to add cold water to the bathtub 3.

[0030] As shown in Figure 2, the hot water supply device 90 includes a hot water supply control unit 91 and a hot water supply communication unit 95.

[0031] The hot water supply control unit 91 is an electronic circuit unit comprising a CPU (not shown), a storage unit 91M composed of memory elements such as ROM and RAM, and interface circuits, etc. The hot water supply control unit 91 performs control processing related to the operation of the hot water supply device 90.

[0032] The memory unit 91M stores various programs and setting information for operating the hot water heater 90, etc. The memory unit 91M also appropriately stores various information acquired by the hot water control unit 91 during the operation of the hot water heater 90, etc. The programs stored in the memory unit 91M include those shown in Figures 5 and 6.

[0033] As shown in Figure 2, the hot water communication unit 95 is connected to the kitchen remote control 10 and the bathroom remote control 20 by wires, and communicates with them.

[0034] <Multiple optional devices> As shown in Figure 1, the hot water supply system 1 allows for the retrofitting of multiple optional devices to the hot water supply unit 90. Examples of these optional devices include a bathroom heating and drying unit, a microbubble bath system, an instant hot water unit, a hot water floor heating system, bathroom sound equipment, and bathroom video equipment.

[0035] In this embodiment, for the sake of simplicity, we will describe the case where the multiple optional devices are a bathroom heating and drying machine 70 and a microbubble bath device 80.

[0036] The hot water supply system 1 may have no optional devices actually connected to the hot water supply unit 90 as an add-on. Alternatively, the hot water supply system 1 may have one or more optional devices actually connected to the hot water supply unit 90 as an add-on.

[0037] In other words, the hot water supply system 1 will fall into one of the following cases, depending on the various needs of the user residing in the house H1: "Case 1" where there are no connected optional devices, "Case 2" where the connected optional device is a microbubble bath device 80, "Case 3" where the connected optional device is a bathroom heater / dryer 70, or "Case 4" where the connected optional devices are a bathroom heater / dryer 70 and a microbubble bath device 80.

[0038] Figures 1 and 2 show the case of "Case 4," that is, the bathroom heating and drying unit 70 and the microbubble bath device 80 are actually retrofitted and connected to the hot water supply device 90.

[0039] Although not shown in the diagrams, in "Case 1," that is, when no optional devices are connected, the bathroom heater / dryer 70 and the microbubble bath device 80 are removed from Figures 1 and 2. Also, in "Case 2," that is, when the connected optional device is the microbubble bath device 80, the bathroom heater / dryer 70 is removed from Figures 1 and 2. Furthermore, in "Case 3," that is, when the connected optional device is the bathroom heater / dryer 70, the microbubble bath device 80 is removed from Figures 1 and 2.

[0040] <Bathroom heater / dryer> As shown in Figure 1, the bathroom heater / dryer 70 is installed on the ceiling of the bathroom R2. The bathroom heater / dryer 70 has a well-known configuration, so its explanation will be kept brief, but it includes a circulation fan, radiators, and thermal valves (not shown), as well as a ventilation unit 79. The bathroom heater / dryer 70 is connected to the hot water supply unit 90 by heating supply pipe P7A and heating return pipe P7B.

[0041] The bathroom heating and drying unit 70 can perform a heating operation to warm the bathroom R2 by circulating the air in the bathroom R2 with a circulation fan (not shown) and heating that air with hot water supplied from the hot water supply unit 90 and flowing through a radiator (not shown).

[0042] Furthermore, the bathroom heating and drying unit 70 can perform ventilation operation to discharge the air from the bathroom R2 to the outside of the house H1 using a ventilation fan (not shown) and a variable damper in the ventilation unit 79.

[0043] Furthermore, the bathroom heater / dryer 70 can perform a drying operation to dry the bathroom R2 by coordinating the raising of the bathroom R2 temperature through heating operation and the dehumidification of the bathroom R2 through ventilation operation.

[0044] Heating, ventilation, and drying are functions performed by the bathroom heater / dryer 70 in bathroom R2.

[0045] The bathroom heater / dryer 70 comes with a bathroom heater / dryer remote control 73 as an accessory. The bathroom heater / dryer remote control 73 can also be installed in the bathroom R2, but it is generally installed in the dressing room R3.

[0046] The bathroom heater / dryer remote control 73 remotely operates the bathroom heater / dryer 70. By operating the bathroom heater / dryer remote control 73 in the dressing room R3, the user can make the bathroom heater / dryer 70 perform heating, ventilation, or drying operations, or change the settings for these operations.

[0047] As shown in Figure 2, the bathroom heater / dryer remote control 73 is connected to the bathroom heater / dryer 70 by a wire and communicates with the bathroom heater / dryer 70. When the bathroom heater / dryer 70 receives a command to perform heating, ventilation, or drying from the bathroom heater / dryer remote control 73, it performs heating, ventilation, or drying.

[0048] The bathroom heating and drying unit 70 is connected by wire to the hot water supply communication unit 95 of the hot water supply unit 90, and communicates with the hot water supply communication unit 95. As will be described later, the bathroom heating and drying unit 70 performs heating operation when it receives a command to perform heating operation from the kitchen remote control 10 or the bathroom remote control 20 via the hot water supply communication unit 95 of the hot water supply unit 90.

[0049] <Microbubble Bath Device> As shown in Figure 1, the microbubble bath device 80 is installed in the middle of the bathtub supply piping P3A and the bathtub return piping P3B. Various methods are known for generating microbubbles, but in this embodiment, the microbubble bath device 80 can perform microbubble operation as follows.

[0050] In other words, when the microbubble bath device 80 is not performing microbubble operation, it allows hot water to flow directly from upstream to downstream of the bathtub supply pipe P3A, and also allows hot water to flow directly from upstream to downstream of the bathtub return pipe P3B.

[0051] When the microbubble bath device 80 operates, it pumps water from the bathtub 3, pressurizes it, and takes it into a tank. It then generates a swirling flow in the pressurized water in the tank, bringing it into contact with air and dissolving the air into the water. As the water is ejected from the circulation fitting in the bathtub 3, the pressure drops suddenly, causing the dissolved air to turn into tiny bubbles, or microbubbles, and the water becomes cloudy.

[0052] As shown in Figure 2, the microbubble bath device 80 is connected by wire to the hot water supply communication unit 95 of the hot water supply device 90, and communicates with the hot water supply communication unit 95. As will be described later, the microbubble bath device 80 performs microbubble operation when it receives a command to perform microbubble operation from the bathroom remote control 20 via the hot water supply communication unit 95 of the hot water supply device 90.

[0053] Microbubble operation is a function that the microbubble bath device 80 performs in the bathroom R2.

[0054] <Kitchen remote control> The kitchen remote control 10 includes a first control unit 11, a first display unit 13, a first operation unit 12, and a first communication unit 15. The first control unit 11 is an example of the "control unit" of the present invention. The first display unit 13 is an example of the "display unit" of the present invention.

[0055] The first control unit 11 is an electronic circuit unit comprising a CPU (not shown), a storage unit 11M composed of memory elements such as ROM and RAM, and an interface circuit. The first control unit 11 performs control processing related to the operation of the kitchen remote control 10.

[0056] The memory unit 11M stores various programs and setting information for remotely controlling the hot water heater 90, etc. The memory unit 11M also appropriately stores various information acquired by the first control unit 11 during remote control of the hot water heater 90, etc.

[0057] The programs stored in the memory unit 11M include the programs shown in Figures 7 and 8. The memory unit 11M also stores the data table DT1 shown in Figure 9.

[0058] As shown in Figure 3, the first display unit 13 is located in the upper part of the front of the kitchen remote control 10. The first display unit 13 is a dot matrix type display panel in which pixels that can be switched on and off are arranged two-dimensionally in the vertical and horizontal directions, and specifically, it is an LCD panel or an organic EL panel.

[0059] The first display unit 13 is controlled by the first control unit 11 to display various information such as characters and images. For example, the first display unit 13 can display kanji, katakana, alphabet, numbers, marks, etc., using 32x32 dots as one character unit.

[0060] The first operation unit 12 is composed of multiple operation switches and receives inputs related to the operation of the hot water supply system 90, etc.

[0061] More specifically, the first operating unit 12 includes an "Operation" switch S11, a "MENU" switch S12, a "▲" switch S13, a "▼" switch S14, and a "Confirm" switch S15.

[0062] The "Drive" switch S11, "MENU" switch S12, "▲" switch S13, "▼" switch S14, and "OK" switch S15 are located on the lower part of the front of the kitchen remote control 10.

[0063] The "Operation" switch S11 is used to switch the hot water heater 90 from a standby state to an operating state. By switching to the operating state, the hot water heater 90 can perform hot water supply operation, automatic bath filling operation, reheating operation, hot water replenishment operation, or cold water replenishment operation. Also, by pressing the "Operation" switch S11 while the hot water heater 90 is in the operating state, the hot water heater 90 can be switched from the operating state to a standby state.

[0064] Furthermore, when the hot water heater 90 switches to the operating state, it starts supplying power from the power source to the control unit of the connected optional device (none, or at least one of the bathroom heating and drying unit 70 and the microbubble bath device 80).

[0065] The "MENU" switch S12 is a switch for displaying multiple user-selectable menus on the first display unit 13. By pressing the "MENU" switch S12, the user can switch the screen of the first display unit 13 from the screen shown in Figure 3 to the "Main Menu," "Settings Menu," "Maintenance Menu," etc. (not shown).

[0066] The "▲" switch S13 and the "▼" switch S14 are switches used to select a desired menu item from the various menu items displayed on the first display unit 13, or to increase or decrease a numerical value when setting a value. The "OK" switch S15 is a switch used to confirm the selected menu or the increased or decreased numerical value.

[0067] The first operation unit 12 further includes a plurality of function switches F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5, each of which can be assigned a plurality of operation functions. Each of the function switches F1 to F5 is arranged along the lower edge of the outer peripheral edge 13E of the first display unit 13.

[0068] Each function switch F1 through F5 is assigned a priority order based on its frequency of use, namely F1 > F2 > F3 > F4 > F5. The function switches F1 through F5 are arranged from left to right in this priority order.

[0069] The assignment of multiple operating functions to each of the function switches F1 to F5 will be explained in detail later.

[0070] The first control unit 11 receives operation input from the "Drive" switch S11, "MENU" switch S12, "▲" switch S13, "▼" switch S14, "OK" switch S15, and each of the function switches F1 to F5 of the first operation unit 12.

[0071] As shown in Figure 2, the first communication unit 15 is connected by wire to the hot water supply communication unit 95 of the hot water supply device 90, and communicates with the hot water supply communication unit 95.

[0072] Furthermore, the first communication unit 15 incorporates an electronic circuit that performs communication using Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The first communication unit 15 can perform network communication with the internet or other network NW1, or with an external server 9 connected to network NW1, via a wireless router (not shown) installed inside the house H1. The external server 9 is a cloud server used by the hot water supply system 1.

[0073] The first control unit 11 transmits and receives information to and from the hot water heater 90, etc., via the first communication unit 15 based on input to the first operation unit 12, and displays various information such as the operating status of the hot water heater 90, etc., via the first display unit 13. The first control unit 11 can also communicate with the network NW1 and the external server 9 via the first communication unit 15, etc.

[0074] For example, if the external server 9 has the latest information on the data table DT1 shown in Figure 9, the first control unit 11 can obtain that latest information via the network NW1 and update the data table DT1 stored in the storage unit 11M.

[0075] As shown in Figure 3, the kitchen remote control 10 further includes a microphone 17M and a speaker 17S. The microphone 17M and speaker 17S are used when performing an intercom call between the kitchen remote control 10 and the bathroom remote control 20.

[0076] <Bathroom remote control> As shown in Figure 2, the bathroom remote control 20 includes a second control unit 21, a second display unit 23, a second operation unit 22, and a second communication unit 25. The second control unit 21 is an example of the "control unit" of the present invention. The second display unit 23 is an example of the "display unit" of the present invention.

[0077] The second control unit 21 is an electronic circuit unit similar to the first control unit 11 of the kitchen remote control 10, and includes a CPU, memory unit 21M, interface circuit, etc. (not shown). The second control unit 21 performs control processing related to the operation of the bathroom remote control 20.

[0078] The memory unit 21M stores various programs and setting information for remotely controlling the hot water heater 90, etc. The memory unit 21M also appropriately stores various information acquired by the second control unit 21 during remote control of the hot water heater 90, etc.

[0079] The programs stored in the memory unit 21M include the programs shown in Figures 7 and 8. The memory unit 21M also stores the data table DT2 shown in Figure 10.

[0080] As shown in Figure 4, the second display unit 23 is located in the central part of the front of the bathroom remote control 20. The second display unit 23 is a dot matrix type display panel, similar to the first display unit 13 of the kitchen remote control 10. The second display unit 23 is controlled by the second control unit 21 to display various information such as characters including kanji and images.

[0081] The second operation unit 22 is composed of multiple operation switches and receives inputs related to the operation of the hot water supply system 90, etc.

[0082] More specifically, the second operating unit 22 includes an "Operation" switch S21, a "MENU" switch S22, a "▲" switch S23, a "▼" switch S24, a "OK" switch S25, and a "CALL" switch S26.

[0083] The "Drive" switch S21 and the "CALL" switch S26 are located on the left side of the front of the bathroom remote control 20. The "MENU" switch S22, the "▲" switch S23, the "▼" switch S24, and the "OK" switch S25 are located on the right side of the front of the bathroom remote control 20.

[0084] The operating functions of the "Drive" switch S21, "MENU" switch S22, "▲" switch S23, "▼" switch S24, and "Select" switch S25 are the same as those of the "Drive" switch S11, "MENU" switch S12, "▲" switch S13, "▼" switch S14, and "Select" switch S15 on the kitchen remote control 10, so their explanations are omitted.

[0085] The "CALL" switch S26 is a switch for performing an intercom call between the kitchen remote control 10 and the bathroom remote control 20.

[0086] The second operation unit 22 further includes a plurality of function switches F6, F7, F8, F9, and F10, each to which an operation function can be assigned. Each of the function switches F6 to F10 is arranged along the lower edge of the outer peripheral edge 23E of the second display unit 23.

[0087] Each of the function switches F6 through F10 is assigned a priority order based on the frequency of use, namely F6 > F7 > F8 > F9 > F10. The function switches F6 through F10 are arranged from left to right in this priority order.

[0088] The assignment of multiple operating functions to each of the function switches F6 to F10 will be explained in detail later.

[0089] The second control unit 21 receives operation inputs from the "Drive" switch S21, "MENU" switch S22, "▲" switch S23, "▼" switch S24, "OK" switch S25, "CALL" switch S26, and each of the function switches F6 to F10 of the second operation unit 22.

[0090] As shown in Figure 2, the second communication unit 25 is connected by wire to the hot water supply communication unit 95 of the hot water supply device 90, and communicates with the hot water supply communication unit 95. In addition, the second communication unit 25 is connected by wire to the first communication unit 15 of the kitchen remote control 10, and communicates with the first communication unit 15.

[0091] The second control unit 21 transmits and receives information to and from the hot water heater 90, etc., via the second communication unit 25 based on input to the second operation unit 22, and displays various information such as the operating status of the hot water heater 90, etc., via the second display unit 23. The second control unit 21 can also communicate with the network NW1 and the external server 9 via the second communication unit 25 and the first communication unit 15 of the kitchen remote control 10.

[0092] For example, if the external server 9 has the latest information on the data table DT2 shown in Figure 10, the second control unit 21 can obtain that latest information via the network NW1 and update the data table DT2 stored in the storage unit 21M.

[0093] As shown in Figure 4, the bathroom remote control 20 further includes a microphone 27M and a speaker 27S. The microphone 27M and speaker 27S are used when performing an intercom call between the kitchen remote control 10 and the bathroom remote control 20.

[0094] <Acquisition of information on the installation of optional equipment in hot water supply systems> When the "Operation" switch S11 on the kitchen remote control 10 or the "Operation" switch S21 on the bathroom remote control 20 is pressed and the hot water heater 90 switches from a standby state to an operating state, the hot water control unit 91 of the hot water heater 90 simultaneously executes the program shown in Figure 5 and the program shown in Figure 6 in order to acquire information on optional devices that have been added later (none, or at least one of the bathroom heating and drying unit 70 and the microbubble bath device 80), i.e., optional device installation information.

[0095] The hot water supply control unit 91 continuously executes the program shown in Figure 5 and the program shown in Figure 6, respectively, until the hot water supply device 90 switches from an operating state to a paused state.

[0096] When the hot water supply control unit 91 starts the program shown in Figure 5, it first sets the optional device installation information to "No bathroom heating and drying unit installed" in step S101.

[0097] Next, the hot water supply control unit 91 moves to step S102 and transmits optional device installation information, "No bathroom heating and drying unit installed," to the kitchen remote control 10 and the bathroom remote control 20.

[0098] Next, the hot water supply control unit 91 moves to step S103, where the hot water supply communication unit 95 attempts to communicate data with the bathroom heating and drying unit 70. The hot water supply control unit 91 then repeats step S103 until it successfully communicates data with the bathroom heating and drying unit 70 and receives a "Yes" response. Once it receives a "Yes" response, it moves to step S104.

[0099] When the hot water supply control unit 91 moves to step S104, it sets the optional device installation information to "Bathroom heating and drying unit installed".

[0100] Next, the hot water supply control unit 91 moves to step S105 and transmits optional device installation information, "Bathroom heating and drying unit installed," to the kitchen remote control 10 and the bathroom remote control 20.

[0101] Next, the hot water supply control unit 91 moves to step S106 and determines whether data communication is impossible between the hot water supply communication unit 95 and the bathroom heating and drying unit 70 for a certain period of time. The period of time is set to a length of, for example, several seconds to several minutes, to prevent the system from mistakenly determining that a malfunction or other problem has occurred when the bathroom heating and drying unit 70 is functioning normally.

[0102] The hot water supply control unit 91 repeats step S106 until it becomes "Yes" in step S106. Once it becomes "Yes", it returns to step S101 and repeats steps S101 to S106.

[0103] In this way, the hot water supply control unit 91 transmits information regarding the installation of optional devices, specifically whether or not the bathroom heating and drying unit 70 is installed, to the kitchen remote control 10 and the bathroom remote control 20 in real time.

[0104] Furthermore, when the hot water supply control unit 91 starts the program shown in Figure 6, it first sets the optional device installation information to "No microbubble bath device installed" in step S201.

[0105] Next, the hot water supply control unit 91 moves to step S202 and transmits optional device installation information, "No microbubble bath device installed," to the kitchen remote control 10 and the bathroom remote control 20.

[0106] Next, the hot water supply control unit 91 moves to step S203, where the hot water supply communication unit 95 attempts to communicate data with the microbubble bath device 80. The hot water supply control unit 91 then repeats step S203 until it successfully communicates data with the microbubble bath device 80 and receives a "Yes" response. Once it receives a "Yes" response, it moves to step S204.

[0107] When the hot water supply control unit 91 moves to step S204, it sets the optional device installation information to "Microbubble bath device installed".

[0108] Next, the hot water supply control unit 91 moves to step S205 and transmits optional device installation information, "Microbubble bath device installed," to the kitchen remote control 10 and the bathroom remote control 20.

[0109] Next, the hot water supply control unit 91 moves to step S206 and determines whether data communication is impossible between the hot water supply communication unit 95 and the microbubble bath device 80 for a certain period of time. The period of time is set to a length of, for example, several seconds to several minutes, to prevent the device from mistakenly determining that a malfunction or other problem has occurred when the microbubble bath device 80 is functioning normally.

[0110] The hot water supply control unit 91 repeats step S206 until it becomes "Yes" in step S206. Once it becomes "Yes", it returns to step S201 and repeats steps S201 to S206.

[0111] In this way, the hot water supply control unit 91 transmits in real time to the kitchen remote control 10 and the bathroom remote control 20 the optional device installation information regarding whether or not the microbubble bath device 80 is installed.

[0112] <Discrimination processing, assignment processing, and operation name display processing in kitchen remote controls> When the "operation" switch S11 of the kitchen remote control 10 or the "operation" switch S21 of the bathroom remote control 20 is pressed and the hot water heater 90 switches from the operating state to the idle state, the first control unit 11 of the kitchen remote control 10 starts the program shown in Figures 7 and 8 in order to assign each of the multiple operation functions to the multiple function switches F1 to F5.

[0113] The first control unit 11 continuously executes the programs shown in Figures 7 and 8 until the hot water supply unit 90 switches from an operating state to a paused state.

[0114] In this program, the first control unit 11 refers to the data table DT1 shown in Figure 9. The data table DT1 defines the priority of each of the multiple operating functions for operating the hot water supply unit 90 and connected optional devices (none, or at least one of the bathroom heating and drying unit 70 and the microbubble bath device 80).

[0115] The data table DT1 contains the following operating functions for operating the hot water supply unit 90 and connected optional devices: • The "CALL" switch for making intercom calls. • The "Automatic" switch for performing the automatic bath filling operation. • The "reheating" switch for performing the reheating operation. • A "bath reservation" switch for scheduling the time to perform the automatic bath filling operation. • The "Bathroom Heating" switch for operating the bathroom heater / dryer 70. • A "Toggle" switch to switch between pages for switch assignments. It is registered.

[0116] Data table DT1 defines the priority for each of the above operation functions in "Case 1" through "Case 4". Operation functions located to the left of data table DT1 have higher priority.

[0117] For example, in "Case 1," the priority of each operation function is "CALL" switch > "Auto" switch > "Reheat" switch > "Bath Reservation" switch. In "Case 4," the priority of each operation function is "CALL" switch > "Auto" switch > "Reheat" switch > "Bathroom Heating" switch > "Switch" switch > "Bath Reservation" switch. In other words, the priority differs depending on the case.

[0118] In data table DT1, the "Bathroom Heating" switch, which is an operation function whose name is written in a hatched rectangle, is a switch that becomes active in conjunction with the connected optional device, the bathroom heating and drying unit 70.

[0119] In other words, data table DT1 registers the "bathroom heating" switch of the bathroom heating and drying unit 70, which is an operation function that needs to be remotely controlled from the kitchen R1, but the "microbubble" switch of the microbubble bath device 80 does not need to be remotely controlled from the kitchen R1, so it is not registered.

[0120] First, in step S301, the first control unit 11 makes a provisional setting: "No connected optional devices: Case 1".

[0121] Next, the first control unit 11 proceeds to step S302. The first control unit 11 then performs an assignment process based on the provisionally set "Case 1" and assigns each of the operation functions for operating the hot water supply device 90 to the respective function switches F1 to F5.

[0122] Specifically, in step S302, the first control unit 11 refers to "Case 1" in the data table DT1 and assigns higher-priority operation functions to function switches F1 to F5, which have higher ranks.

[0123] As a result, the "CALL" switch is assigned to function switch F1. The "Auto" switch is assigned to function switch F2. The "Reheat" switch is assigned to function switch F3. The "Bath Reservation" switch is assigned to function switch F4.

[0124] Note that function switch F5 has no switch assignment. Also, in "Case 1," the switch assignments on page 2 do not exist.

[0125] Next, the first control unit 11 proceeds to step S303. The first control unit 11 then executes the operation name display process based on the provisionally set "Case 1" and displays the operation name representing the operation function assigned by the assignment process in a position adjacent to each of the function switches F1 to F5 on the first display unit 13.

[0126] Specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the first display unit 13 has multiple areas designated as "Name 1," "Name 2," "Name 3," "Name 4," and "Name 5." Each of the areas designated as "Name 1" to "Name 5" is located adjacent to each of the function switches F1 to F5 on the first display unit 13, from above.

[0127] The first control unit 11 displays the operation name "CALL" in the "Name 1" area, the operation name "Auto" in the "Name 2" area, the operation name "Reheat" in the "Name 3" area, and the operation name "Bath Reservation" in the "Name 4" area. Nothing is displayed in the "Name 5" area.

[0128] Next, the first control unit 11 moves to step S304 shown in Figure 7, and repeats step S304 until it receives optional device installation information from the hot water communication unit 95 of the hot water supply unit 90 and the response becomes "Yes". Once the response becomes "Yes", it moves to step S305.

[0129] When the first control unit 11 moves to step S305, it determines whether or not it has received optional device installation information, such as "no bathroom heating and drying unit installed" and "no microbubble bath device installed".

[0130] If the answer to step S305 is "Yes", the first control unit 11 proceeds to step S306. On the other hand, if the answer to step S305 is "No", the first control unit 11 proceeds to step S311.

[0131] When the first control unit 11 moves from step S305 to step S306, it determines that "there are no connected optional devices: Case 1".

[0132] Next, the first control unit 11 proceeds to step S307. The first control unit 11 then performs an assignment process based on the determination result "Case 1" in step S306, assigning each of the operation functions for operating the hot water supply device 90 to the respective function switches F1 to F5. The assignment details are the same as in step S302, so no explanation is given.

[0133] Next, the first control unit 11 proceeds to step S308. Based on the determination result "Case 1" in step S306, the first control unit 11 performs the operation name display process and displays the operation name representing the operation function assigned by the assignment process in a position adjacent to each of the function switches F1 to F5 on the first display unit 13. The content of the operation name display is the same as in step S303, so the explanation is omitted. After that, the first control unit 11 returns to step S304.

[0134] When the first control unit 11 moves from step S305 to step S311, it determines whether or not it has received optional device installation information, such as "no bathroom heating and drying unit installed" and "microbubble bath device installed".

[0135] If the answer to step S311 is "Yes", the first control unit 11 proceeds to step S312. On the other hand, if the answer to step S311 is "No", the first control unit 11 proceeds to step S315 as shown in Figure 8.

[0136] When the first control unit 11 moves from step S311 to step S312 as shown in Figure 7, it determines that "the connected optional device is a microbubble gas device: Case 2".

[0137] Next, the first control unit 11 proceeds to step S313. Based on the determination result "Case 2" in step S312, the first control unit 11 performs an assignment process and assigns each of the operation functions for operating the hot water supply device 90 to the respective function switches F1 to F5.

[0138] Specifically, in step S313, the first control unit 11 refers to "Case 2" in the data table DT1 and assigns higher-priority operation functions to function switches F1 to F5, which have higher ranks.

[0139] As a result, the "CALL" switch is assigned to function switch F1. The "Auto" switch is assigned to function switch F2. The "Reheat" switch is assigned to function switch F3. The "Bath Reservation" switch is assigned to function switch F4.

[0140] Note that function switch F5 has no switch assignment. Also, in "Case 2," there is no switch assignment on page 2.

[0141] Next, the first control unit 11 proceeds to step S314. Based on the determination result "Case 2" in step S312, the first control unit 11 executes the operation name display process and displays the operation name representing the operation function assigned by the assignment process in a position adjacent to each of the function switches F1 to F5 on the first display unit 13.

[0142] Specifically, the first control unit 11 displays the operation name "CALL" in the "Name 1" area, the operation name "Automatic" in the "Name 2" area, the operation name "Reheat" in the "Name 3" area, and the operation name "Bath Reservation" in the "Name 4" area. Nothing is displayed in the "Name 5" area. After that, the first control unit 11 returns to step S304.

[0143] When the first control unit 11 moves from step S311 shown in Figure 7 to step S315 shown in Figure 8, it determines whether or not it has received optional device installation information, such as "bathroom heating and drying unit installed" and "microbubble bath device not installed".

[0144] If the answer to step S315 is "Yes", the first control unit 11 proceeds to step S316. On the other hand, if the answer to step S315 is "No", the first control unit 11 proceeds to step S321.

[0145] When the first control unit 11 moves from step S315 to step S316, it determines that "the connected optional device is a bathroom heater / dryer: Case 3".

[0146] Next, the first control unit 11 proceeds to step S317. Based on the determination result "Case 3" in step S316, the first control unit 11 performs an assignment process and assigns each of the operation functions for operating the hot water supply device 90 and the bathroom heating and drying machine 70 to the respective function switches F1 to F5.

[0147] Specifically, in step S317, the first control unit 11 refers to "Case 3" in the data table DT1 and assigns higher-priority operation functions to function switches F1 to F5, which have higher ranks.

[0148] As a result, on page 1, the "CALL" switch is assigned to function switch F1. The "Auto" switch is assigned to function switch F2. The "Reheat" switch is assigned to function switch F3. The "Bathroom Heating" switch is assigned to function switch F4. The "Switch" switch is assigned to function switch F5.

[0149] Additionally, on page 2, function switch F1 is assigned the "bath reservation" switch. Function switch F5 is assigned the "selection" switch. Note that on page 2, function switches F2 to F4 are not assigned any switches.

[0150] Next, the first control unit 11 proceeds to step S318. Based on the determination result "Case 3" in step S316, the first control unit 11 executes the operation name display process and displays the operation name representing the operation function assigned by the assignment process in a position adjacent to each of the function switches F1 to F5 on the first display unit 13.

[0151] Specifically, on page 1, the first control unit 11 displays the operation name "CALL" in the "Name 1" area, the operation name "Auto" in the "Name 2" area, the operation name "Reheat" in the "Name 3" area, the operation name "Bathroom Heating" in the "Name 4" area, and the operation name "Switch" in the "Name 5" area.

[0152] Furthermore, on page 2, the first control unit 11 displays the operation name "Bath Reservation" in the "Name 1" area and the operation name "Switch" in the "Name 5" area. Note that nothing is displayed in the "Name 2" to "Name 4" areas on page 2. After that, the first control unit 11 returns to step S304 shown in Figure 7.

[0153] When the first control unit 11 moves from step S315 to step S321, it determines that it has received information about the installation of optional devices, namely "a bathroom heating and drying unit is installed" and "a microbubble bath device is installed."

[0154] Then, the first control unit 11 moves to step S322 and determines that "the connected optional device is a bathroom heating and drying machine and a microbubble bath device: Case 4".

[0155] Next, the first control unit 11 proceeds to step S323. Based on the determination result "Case 4" in step S322, the first control unit 11 performs an assignment process and assigns each of the operation functions for operating the hot water supply device 90 and the bathroom heating and drying machine 70 to the respective function switches F1 to F5.

[0156] Specifically, in step S323, the first control unit 11 refers to "Case 4" of the data table DT1 and assigns higher-priority operation functions to function switches F1 to F5, which have higher ranks.

[0157] As a result, on page 1, the "CALL" switch is assigned to function switch F1. The "Auto" switch is assigned to function switch F2. The "Reheat" switch is assigned to function switch F3. The "Bathroom Heating" switch is assigned to function switch F4. The "Switch" switch is assigned to function switch F5.

[0158] Additionally, on page 2, function switch F1 is assigned the "bath reservation" switch. Function switch F5 is assigned the "selection" switch. Note that on page 2, function switches F2 to F4 are not assigned any switches.

[0159] Next, the first control unit 11 proceeds to step S324. Based on the determination result "Case 4" in step S322, the first control unit 11 executes the operation name display process and displays the operation name representing the operation function assigned by the assignment process at a position adjacent to each of the function switches F1 to F5 on the first display unit 13.

[0160] Specifically, on page 1, the first control unit 11 displays the operation name "CALL" in the "Name 1" area, the operation name "Auto" in the "Name 2" area, the operation name "Reheat" in the "Name 3" area, the operation name "Bathroom Heating" in the "Name 4" area, and the operation name "Switch" in the "Name 5" area.

[0161] Furthermore, on page 2, the first control unit 11 displays the operation name "Bath Reservation" in the "Name 1" area and the operation name "Switch" in the "Name 5" area. Note that nothing is displayed in the "Name 2" to "Name 4" areas on page 2. After that, the first control unit 11 returns to step S304 shown in Figure 7.

[0162] S304-S306, S311, S312, S315, S316, S321, and S322 are examples of the "discrimination process" of the present invention.

[0163] The first control unit 11 repeatedly performs discrimination processing, assignment processing, and operation name display processing immediately after the hot water supply unit 90 is started up. In the discrimination processing, the first control unit 11 determines the connected optional device (none, or at least one of the bathroom heating and drying unit 70 and the microbubble bath device 80) by communicating with the hot water supply unit 90.

[0164] In the case of Case 3 or Case 4, the first control unit 11 assigns only the operation function that needs to be remotely controlled from the kitchen R1, namely the "bathroom heating" switch, to the function switch F4 on page 1.

[0165] In case 2 or case 4, the first control unit 11 does not assign the "microbubble" switch, which is an operation function that does not need to be remotely controlled from the kitchen R1, to each function switch F1 to F5.

[0166] <Identification processing, assignment processing, and operation name display processing in bathroom remote control> When the "operation" switch S11 on the kitchen remote control 10 or the "operation" switch S21 on the bathroom remote control 20 is pressed and the hot water heater 90 switches from the operating state to the idle state, the second control unit 21 of the bathroom remote control 20 starts the program shown in Figures 7 and 8 in order to assign each of the multiple operation functions to the multiple function switches F6 to F10.

[0167] The second control unit 21 continuously executes the programs shown in Figures 7 and 8 until the hot water supply unit 90 switches from the operating state to the idle state.

[0168] In this program, the second control unit 21 refers to the data table DT2 shown in Figure 10. The data table DT2 defines the priority of each of the multiple operating functions for operating the hot water supply unit 90 and connected optional devices (none, or at least one of the bathroom heating and drying unit 70 and the microbubble bath device 80).

[0169] The data table DT2 contains the following operating functions for operating the hot water supply unit 90 and connected optional devices: Regarding the setting of the hot water temperature, there is a "priority" switch to give priority to the bathroom remote control 20. • The "reheating" switch for performing the reheating operation. • The "Automatic" switch for performing the automatic bath filling operation. • A "hot water refill" switch to perform the hot water refilling operation. • A "water top-up" switch to perform the water top-up operation. • A "microbubble" switch for performing microbubble operation using the microbubble bath device 80. • The "Bathroom Heating" switch for operating the bathroom heater / dryer 70. • A "Toggle" switch to switch between pages for switch assignments. It is registered.

[0170] Data table DT2 defines the priority for each of the above operation functions in "Case 1" through "Case 4". Operation functions located to the left of data table DT2 have higher priority.

[0171] For example, in "Case 1," the priority of each operation function is "Priority" switch > "Reheat" switch > "Auto" switch > "Add Hot Water" switch > "Add Cold Water" switch. In "Case 4," the priority of each operation function is "Priority" switch > "Reheat" switch > "Auto" switch > "Microbubble" switch > "Switch" switch > "Add Hot Water" switch > "Add Cold Water" switch > "Bathroom Heating" switch. In other words, the priority differs depending on the case. Also, the priority in data table DT2 is different from the priority in data table DT1.

[0172] In data table DT2, the operating functions whose names are written in hatched squares are the "microbubble" switch and the "bathroom heating" switch. The "microbubble" switch is a switch that is activated in accordance with the connected optional device, the microbubble bath device 80. The "bathroom heating" switch is a switch that is activated in accordance with the connected optional device, the bathroom heating and drying unit 70.

[0173] First, in step S301, the second control unit 21 makes a provisional setting: "No connected optional devices: Case 1".

[0174] Next, the second control unit 21 proceeds to step S302. The second control unit 21 then performs an assignment process based on the provisionally set "Case 1" and assigns each of the operation functions for operating the hot water supply device 90 to the respective function switches F6 to F10.

[0175] Specifically, in step S302, the second control unit 21 refers to "Case 1" in the data table DT2 and assigns higher-priority operation functions to function switches F6 to F10, which have higher ranks.

[0176] As a result, the "Priority" switch is assigned to function switch F6. The "Reheat" switch is assigned to function switch F7. The "Auto" switch is assigned to function switch F8. The "Add Hot Water" switch is assigned to function switch F9. The "Add Cold Water" switch is assigned to function switch F10.

[0177] Note that in "Case 1," the switch assignment on page 2 does not exist.

[0178] Next, the second control unit 21 proceeds to step S303. The second control unit 21 then executes the operation name display process based on the provisionally set "Case 1" and displays the operation name representing the operation function assigned by the assignment process in the position adjacent to each of the function switches F6 to F10 on the second display unit 23.

[0179] Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, the second display unit 23 has multiple areas designated as "Name 6," "Name 7," "Name 8," "Name 9," and "Name 10." Each of the areas designated as "Name 6" to "Name 10" is located adjacent to each of the function switches F6 to F10 on the second display unit 23, from above.

[0180] The second control unit 21 displays the operation name "Priority" in the area labeled "Name 6", the operation name "Reheat" in the area labeled "Name 7", the operation name "Automatic" in the area labeled "Name 8", the operation name "Add Hot Water" in the area labeled "Name 9", and the operation name "Add Cold Water" in the area labeled "Name 10".

[0181] Of the processes performed by the second control unit 21 in steps S304 to S324 shown in Figures 7 and 8, the discrimination processes S304 to S306, S311, S312, S315, S316, S321, and S322 are the same as the processes performed by the first control unit 11 described above.

[0182] On the other hand, among those processes, the allocation processes S307, S313, S317, and S323, and the operation name display processes S308, S314, S318, and S324 differ from the processing content of the first control unit 11 described above. These differences will be explained below, and explanations of the same parts will be omitted as appropriate.

[0183] As shown in Figure 7, when the second control unit 21 proceeds to step S307 via steps S304 to S306, it executes an assignment process based on the determination result "Case 1" in step S306, and assigns each of the operation functions for operating the hot water supply device 90 to the respective function switches F6 to F10. The assignment details are the same as in step S302, so the explanation is omitted.

[0184] Next, the second control unit 21 proceeds to step S308. Based on the determination result "Case 1" in step S306, the second control unit 21 performs the operation name display process and displays the operation name representing the operation function assigned by the assignment process in the position adjacent to each of the function switches F6 to F10 on the second display unit 23. The content of the operation name display is the same as in step S303, so the explanation is omitted. After that, the second control unit 21 returns to step S304.

[0185] When the second control unit 21 proceeds to step S313 via steps S304, S305, S311, and S312, it executes an assignment process based on the determination result "Case 2" in step S312, and assigns each of the operation functions for operating the hot water supply device 90 and the microbubble bath device 80 to the respective function switches F6 to F10.

[0186] Specifically, in step S313, the second control unit 21 refers to "Case 2" in the data table DT2 and assigns higher-priority operation functions to function switches F6 to F10, which have higher ranks.

[0187] As a result, on page 1, the "Priority" switch is assigned to function switch F6. The "Reheat" switch is assigned to function switch F7. The "Auto" switch is assigned to function switch F8. The "Microbubble" switch is assigned to function switch F9. The "Switch" switch is assigned to function switch F10.

[0188] Additionally, on page 2, function switch F6 is assigned the "Add Hot Water" switch. Function switch F7 is assigned the "Add Cold Water" switch. Function switch F10 is assigned the "Selector" switch. Note that on page 2, function switches F8 and F9 have no switch assignments.

[0189] Next, the second control unit 21 proceeds to step S314. Based on the determination result "Case 2" in step S312, the second control unit 21 executes the operation name display process and displays the operation name representing the operation function assigned by the assignment process in a position adjacent to each of the function switches F6 to F10 on the second display unit 23.

[0190] Specifically, on page 1, the second control unit 21 displays the operation name "Priority" in the area labeled "Name 6", the operation name "Reheat" in the area labeled "Name 7", the operation name "Automatic" in the area labeled "Name 8", the operation name "Microbubble" in the area labeled "Name 9", and the operation name "Switch" in the area labeled "Name 10".

[0191] Furthermore, on page 2, the second control unit 21 displays the operation name "Add Hot Water" in the "Name 6" area, the operation name "Add Cold Water" in the "Name 7" area, and the operation name "Switch" in the "Name 10" area. Note that nothing is displayed in the "Name 8" and "Name 9" areas on page 2. After that, the second control unit 21 returns to step S304.

[0192] The second control unit 21 proceeds to step S317 via steps S304, S305, and S311 shown in Figure 7, and steps S315 and S316 shown in Figure 8. Based on the determination result "Case 3" in step S316, it performs an assignment process and assigns each of the operation functions for operating the hot water supply device 90 and the bathroom heating and drying machine 70 to the respective function switches F6 to F10.

[0193] Specifically, in step S317, the second control unit 21 refers to "Case 3" in the data table DT2 and assigns higher-priority operation functions to function switches F6 to F10, which have higher ranks.

[0194] As a result, on page 1, the "Priority" switch is assigned to function switch F6. The "Reheat" switch is assigned to function switch F7. The "Auto" switch is assigned to function switch F8. The "Add Hot Water" switch is assigned to function switch F9. The "Switch" switch is assigned to function switch F10.

[0195] Additionally, on page 2, function switch F6 is assigned the "Water Refill" switch. Function switch F7 is assigned the "Bathroom Heater" switch. Function switch F10 is assigned the "Selector" switch. Note that on page 2, function switches F8 and F9 are not assigned any switches.

[0196] Next, the second control unit 21 proceeds to step S318. Based on the determination result "Case 3" in step S316, the second control unit 21 executes the operation name display process and displays the operation name representing the operation function assigned by the assignment process in the position adjacent to each of the function switches F6 to F10 on the second display unit 23.

[0197] Specifically, on page 1, the second control unit 21 displays the operation name "Priority" in the area labeled "Name 6", the operation name "Reheat" in the area labeled "Name 7", the operation name "Automatic" in the area labeled "Name 8", the operation name "Add Hot Water" in the area labeled "Name 9", and the operation name "Switch" in the area labeled "Name 5".

[0198] Furthermore, on page 2, the second control unit 21 displays the operation name "Add Water" in the "Name 6" area, the operation name "Bathroom Heating" in the "Name 7" area, and the operation name "Switch" in the "Name 10" area. Note that nothing is displayed in the "Name 8" and "Name 9" areas on page 2. After that, the second control unit 21 returns to step S304 shown in Figure 7.

[0199] The second control unit 21 proceeds to step S323 via steps S304, S305, and S311 shown in Figure 7, and steps S315, S321, and S322 shown in Figure 8. Based on the determination result "Case 4" in step S322, it performs an assignment process and assigns each of the operation functions for operating the hot water supply device 90, the bathroom heating and drying device 70, and the microbubble bath device 80 to the respective function switches F6 to F10.

[0200] Specifically, in step S323, the second control unit 21 refers to "Case 4" in the data table DT2 and assigns higher-priority operation functions to function switches F6 to F10, which have higher ranks.

[0201] As a result, on page 1, the "Priority" switch is assigned to function switch F6. The "Reheat" switch is assigned to function switch F7. The "Auto" switch is assigned to function switch F8. The "Microbubble" switch is assigned to function switch F9. The "Switch" switch is assigned to function switch F10.

[0202] Also, on page 2, the "Add Hot Water" switch is assigned to function switch F6. The "Add Cold Water" switch is assigned to function switch F7. The "Bathroom Heater" switch is assigned to function switch F8. The "Selector" switch is assigned to function switch F10. Note that on page 2, function switch F9 has no switch assigned.

[0203] Next, the second control unit 21 proceeds to step S324. Based on the determination result "Case 4" in step S322, the second control unit 21 executes the operation name display process and displays the operation name representing the operation function assigned by the assignment process in a position adjacent to each of the function switches F6 to F10 on the second display unit 23.

[0204] Specifically, on page 1, the second control unit 21 displays the operation name "Priority" in the area labeled "Name 6", the operation name "Reheat" in the area labeled "Name 7", the operation name "Automatic" in the area labeled "Name 8", the operation name "Microbubble" in the area labeled "Name 9", and the operation name "Switch" in the area labeled "Name 10".

[0205] Furthermore, on page 2, the second control unit 21 displays the operation name "Add Hot Water" in the "Name 6" area, the operation name "Add Cold Water" in the "Name 7" area, the operation name "Bathroom Heating" in the "Name 8" area, and the operation name "Switch" in the "Name 10" area. Note that nothing is displayed in the "Name 9" area on page 2. After that, the second control unit 21 returns to step S304 shown in Figure 7.

[0206] The second control unit 21 repeatedly performs discrimination processing, assignment processing, and operation name display processing immediately after the hot water heater 90 is started up. In the discrimination processing, the second control unit 21 determines the connected optional device (none, or at least one of the bathroom heating and drying unit 70 and the microbubble bath device 80) by communicating with the hot water heater 90.

[0207] <Effects and Effects> In the hot water supply system 1 of the embodiment, the first control unit 11 of the kitchen remote control 10 and the second control unit 21 of the bathroom remote control 20, which remotely operate the hot water supply device 90, respectively, execute the program discrimination process (steps S304-S306, S311, S312, S315, S316, S321, S322), assignment process (steps S307, S313, S317, S323), and operation name display process (steps S308, S314, S318, S324) shown in Figures 7 and 8.

[0208] As a result, in "Case 3" or "Case 4" of the data table DT1 shown in Figure 9, when a user wants to perform "heating operation" on the bathroom heater / dryer 70, which is an optional device connected later, using the kitchen remote control 10, they can activate the "bathroom heater" switch assigned to the function switch F4 by pressing the function switch F4 which displays the function name "bathroom heating," thereby causing the bathroom heater / dryer 70 to perform "heating operation."

[0209] Furthermore, in "Case 2" of the data table DT2 shown in Figure 10, when a user wants to perform "microbubble operation" on the microbubble bath device 80, which is an optional device connected later, using the bathroom remote control 20, they can activate the "microbubble" switch assigned to function switch F9 by pressing function switch F9 on page 1, where the function name "microbubble" is displayed, thereby causing the microbubble bath device 80 to perform "microbubble operation".

[0210] Furthermore, in "Case 3" of the data table DT2 shown in Figure 10, when a user wants to perform "heating operation" on the bathroom heater / dryer 70, which is an optional device connected later, using the bathroom remote control 20, they can activate the "bathroom heating" switch assigned to that function switch F7 by pressing the function switch F7 on page 2, which displays the function name "bathroom heating," thereby causing the bathroom heater / dryer 70 to perform "heating operation."

[0211] Furthermore, in "Case 4" of the data table DT2 shown in Figure 10, when a user wants to perform "microbubble operation" on the microbubble bath device 80, which is an optional device connected later, using the bathroom remote control 20, they can activate the "microbubble" switch assigned to function switch F9 by pressing the function switch F9 on page 1, where the function name "microbubble" is displayed, thereby causing the microbubble bath device 80 to perform "microbubble operation".

[0212] Furthermore, in "Case 4" of the data table DT2 shown in Figure 10, when a user wants to perform "heating operation" on the bathroom heater / dryer 70, which is an optional device connected later, using the bathroom remote control 20, they can activate the "bathroom heating" switch assigned to that function switch F8 by pressing the function switch F8 on page 2, which displays the function name "bathroom heating," thereby causing the bathroom heater / dryer 70 to perform "heating operation."

[0213] As a result, this hot water supply system 1 can significantly reduce the number of user inputs compared to the conventional hot water supply system described above, thus minimizing the inconvenience the user may feel.

[0214] Therefore, the hot water supply system 1 of this embodiment can improve user convenience.

[0215] Furthermore, this hot water supply system 1 does not require replacing the kitchen remote control 10 with one that has dedicated operation switches for optional devices (bathroom heater / dryer 70 or microbubble bath device 80) in addition to the normal operation switches of the kitchen remote control 10, nor does it require replacing the bathroom remote control 20 with one that has dedicated operation switches for optional devices (bathroom heater / dryer 70 or microbubble bath device 80) in addition to the normal operation switches of the bathroom remote control 20. Moreover, this hot water supply system 1 reduces the need to separately install a remote control device dedicated to optional devices (bathroom heater / dryer 70 or microbubble bath device 80). For example, by assigning all of the multiple operation functions of the bathroom heater / dryer remote control 73 installed in the dressing room R3 in the embodiment to the respective function switches F1 to F10 of the kitchen remote control 10 or bathroom remote control 20, it is possible to eliminate the bathroom heater / dryer remote control 73. As a result, this hot water supply system 1 can reduce the installation cost of optional devices (bathroom heater / dryer 70 or microbubble bath device 80).

[0216] Furthermore, in this hot water supply system 1, each function switch F1 to F5 of the kitchen remote control 10 is assigned a priority order according to the frequency of use. In the kitchen remote control 10, the first control unit 11, during the assignment process, refers to the data table DT1 and assigns higher-priority operation functions to the function switches F1 to F5 with higher priority. Similarly, each function switch F6 to F10 of the bathroom remote control 20 is assigned a priority order according to the frequency of use. In the bathroom remote control 20, the second control unit 21, during the assignment process, refers to the data table DT2 and assigns higher-priority operation functions to the function switches F6 to F10 with higher priority. As a result, the user can operate the function switch that is most frequently used among the function switches F1 to F10 to execute high-priority operation functions. Consequently, this hot water supply system 1 can further improve user convenience.

[0217] Furthermore, in this hot water supply system 1, the second control unit 21 of the bathroom remote control 20 assigns, during the assignment process, an operating function corresponding to the function that the connected optional devices (bathroom heater / dryer 70 and microbubble bath device 80) perform in the bathroom R2 to at least one of the function switches F6 to F10 of the bathroom remote control 20. This allows the user to easily perform "heating operation" of the bathroom heater / dryer 70 and "microbubble operation" of the microbubble bath device 80 using the bathroom remote control 20 while in the bathroom R2.

[0218] Furthermore, in this hot water supply system 1, the first control unit 11 of the kitchen remote control 10 assigns to one of the function switches F1 to F5 of the kitchen remote control 10 only the operation function that needs to be remotely controlled from the kitchen R1 among the operation functions that the connected optional devices (bathroom heater / dryer 70 and microbubble bath device 80) perform in the bathroom R2, namely the "bathroom heating" switch of the bathroom heater / dryer 70. This allows the user to activate the "bathroom heating" switch while in the kitchen R1 and have the kitchen remote control 10 perform "heating operation," and the "microbubble" switch, which is not needed, is not assigned to the function switches F1 to F5 of the kitchen remote control 10, thus further improving user convenience.

[0219] Furthermore, in this hot water supply system 1, the first control unit 11 of the kitchen remote control 10 and the second control unit 21 of the bathroom remote control 20 each determine whether a connected optional device (none, or at least one of the bathroom heating and drying unit 70 and the microbubble bath device 80) is connected by communicating with the connected optional device via the hot water supply unit 90 during the determination process. The first control unit 11 and the second control unit 21 then repeatedly execute the determination process, assignment process, and operation name display process, respectively, immediately after the hot water supply unit 90 starts up. As a result, if a malfunction or other problem occurs with an optional device that was determined by the hot water supply unit 90 immediately after startup, the first control unit 11 and the second control unit 21 can exclude the malfunctioning optional device by repeatedly executing the determination process, assignment process, and operation name display process. Consequently, this hot water supply system 1 can prevent the user from mistakenly believing that they can operate the malfunctioning optional device, thereby further improving user convenience.

[0220] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to examples, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above examples and can be applied with appropriate modifications without departing from its spirit.

[0221] In this embodiment, the first control unit 11 of the kitchen remote control 10 and the second control unit 21 of the bathroom remote control 20 each identify the connected optional device by communicating with the connected optional device via the hot water supply device 90 during the identification process. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the first control unit 11 and the second control unit 21 may each execute the programs shown in Figures 5 and 6 instead of the hot water supply control unit 91, and identify the connected optional device by communicating directly with the connected optional device.

[0222] In this embodiment, the first control unit 11 and the second control unit 21 repeatedly perform discrimination processing, assignment processing, and operation name display processing, respectively, immediately after the hot water heater 90 is started up. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and for example, these processes may be performed only once immediately after the hot water heater 90 is started up.

[0223] In this embodiment, the heating means 99 is of the gas combustion type, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and may be of the electric heater type or heat pump type, for example.

[0224] In this embodiment, only the "bathroom heating" switch, which controls the "heating operation" of the bathroom heating and drying unit 70, is assigned to one of the function switches F1 to F10. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the "bathroom ventilation" switch, which controls the "ventilation operation" of the bathroom heating and drying unit 70, and the "bathroom drying" switch, which controls the "drying operation," may also be assigned to at least one of the function switches F1 to F10.

[0225] In this embodiment, the storage unit 11M stores data table DT1 and the storage unit 21M stores data table DT2, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the storage unit 91M of the hot water heater 90 stores data tables DT1 and DT2, and the first control unit 11 and the second control unit 21 may refer to data tables DT1 and DT2 by communication. [Industrial applicability]

[0226] This invention can be used, for example, in hot water supply systems installed in homes, facilities, and the like. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0227] 1…Hot water supply system 99...Heating means 90... Hot water supply system 10, 20... Remote control devices (10... Kitchen remote control, 20... Bathroom remote control) 70, 80…Multiple optional devices (70…Bathroom heater / dryer, 80…Microbubble bath device) 13, 23...display section (13...first display section, 23...second display section) 13E, 23E... outer edge of the display unit F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6, F7, F8, F9, F10... Multiple function switches 11, 21... Control Units (11... First Control Unit, 21... Second Control Unit) S304-S306, S311, S312, S315, S316, S321, S322... Discrimination process S307, S313, S317, S323... Allocation process S308, S314, S318, S324... Operation name display process DT1, DT2…Data Tables 11M, 21M…Storage section R1... Kitchen R2…Bathroom

Claims

[Claim 1] A hot water supply device having a heating means, which heats supplied water with the heating means and dispenses hot water, The hot water supply system is further equipped with a remote control device for remotely operating the hot water supply system, A hot water supply system to which multiple optional devices can be connected, The remote control device includes a dot matrix type display unit, A plurality of function switches are arranged along the outer edge of the display unit, to which multiple operating functions for operating the hot water supply device and the optional device can be assigned, It includes a control unit that controls the display unit and receives operation inputs from the plurality of function switches, The control unit performs a determination process to identify the connected optional device, Based on the results of the discrimination process, an assignment process is performed to assign each of the multiple operating functions for operating the hot water supply device and the connected optional device to the multiple function switches, The system is configured to perform an operation name display process, which displays an operation name representing the operation function assigned by the assignment process at a position adjacent to each of the plurality of function switches in the display unit, The system further includes a storage unit that stores a data table in which priority is defined for each of the aforementioned multiple operation functions, The aforementioned multiple function switches are assigned a priority order according to their frequency of operation. The control unit, in the assignment process, refers to the data table and assigns the operation functions with higher priority to the function switches with higher ranks. The remote control device includes a bathroom remote control installed in the bathroom and a kitchen remote control installed in the kitchen. When the optional device having a function to be performed in the bathroom is connected to the hot water supply system, the control unit, in the assignment process, assigns the operation function corresponding to the function to be performed in the bathroom to at least one of the plurality of function switches of the bathroom remote control. Furthermore, the control unit assigns to at least one of the multiple function switches on the kitchen remote control only the operation functions that need to be remotely controlled from the kitchen among the operation functions corresponding to the optional device that has functions to be performed in the bathroom, The optional devices that can be connected to the hot water supply system are a bathroom heating and drying system and a microbubble bath system. The functions that the aforementioned bathroom heating and drying unit performs in the bathroom are a heating operation to warm the bathroom, a ventilation operation to expel the air from the bathroom to the outside, and a drying operation to dry the bathroom. The function that the microbubble bath device performs in the bathroom is a microbubble operation that transforms the air dissolved in the hot water sprayed into the bathtub installed in the bathroom into fine bubbles. A hot water supply system characterized in that, of the operating functions corresponding to the bathroom heating and drying machine and the microbubble bath device, the operating function that needs to be remotely controlled from the kitchen is a "bathroom heating" switch that causes the heating operation to be performed.

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