Water dispenser, its control method, program, recording medium, and control device

JP7933415B2Active Publication Date: 2026-10-13PURPOSE CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2025120746
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-07-17
Publication Date
2026-10-13
Estimated Expiration
2041-08-11

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

【0018】 本開示によれば、次の何れかの効果が得られる。 (1) 汎用性の高い温水需要に応じることができるとともに、高温出湯が必要な場合など、適時に高温出湯が可能であり、即席麺などの温水加熱食品の温水調理などにも適用可能なウォーターサーバーの利便性を向上させ、幅広い温水需要に応じることができる。

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Abstract

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

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates, for example, to control of a water dispenser that is capable of discharging hot water at a temperature of less than 90°C as well as discharging high-temperature hot water exceeding 90°C.

Background Art

[0002] Water dispensers are generally capable of discharging regular hot water at a temperature of less than 90°C. When higher-temperature hot water is required for such hot water discharge, the hot water is heated by another heating means.

[0003] Regarding such a water dispenser capable of discharging high-temperature hot water, it is known that an electric pot is attached to the main body of the water dispenser, the hot water from the water dispenser main body is heated by the electric pot, and means for discharging water vapor generated during high-temperature heating into the atmosphere is provided (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] By the way, even for the discharge of hot water at a temperature of less than 90°C from a water dispenser, there is no problem at all as a hot water discharge function for drinking such as tea or milk. However, in hot water heating cooking such as instant noodles, it has been pointed out that at a normal hot water temperature, it takes time to soften the food, which impairs the speed of cooking and reduces the palatability and freshness of the food, and in such cases, there is a problem that high-temperature hot water at a temperature higher than the normal hot water temperature is required.

[0006] However, when hot water reaches its boiling point, a large amount of steam is generated, causing discomfort due to the bubbles and vibrations associated with boiling. It takes a considerable amount of time to reach the boiling point from normal hot water temperature. Even for cooking instant noodles, extremely hot water that reaches boiling point is not required. Furthermore, the boiling point is affected by the altitude at which the water dispenser is installed. Providing extremely hot water becomes difficult at altitudes above 2000m, and if the boiling point is considered the upper limit of hot water temperature, this upper limit will differ depending on the altitude. This is not a problem with the water dispenser itself, but rather a problem with the altitude at which it is installed.

[0007] From the perspective of a water dispenser's hot water function, increasing the water temperature to a level suitable for cooking instant noodles presents the challenge of increased power consumption.

[0008] In response to these challenges, the inventors of this disclosure have found that by providing hot water at the user's required temperature, from normal hot water to high-temperature heating before boiling, as needed, it is possible to enhance the convenience of a water server while suppressing power consumption, making it suitable for applications such as heating various foods like instant noodles.

[0009] Therefore, in light of the above-mentioned problems and findings, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a water dispenser that enhances convenience by enabling hot water control and, when necessary, high-temperature hot water output. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] To achieve the above objective, according to one aspect of the water server of this disclosure, a water server equipped with a water supply function including hot water, comprising: a hot water tank for storing the hot water; a heating device for heating the hot water in the hot water tank; and a hot water switch assigned a high-temperature heating mode start function that starts high-temperature heating mode operation by a long press operation, A temperature sensor detects the temperature of the hot water, and the heating device is activated by switching to the high-temperature heating mode when the hot water switch is pressed and held down. During the operation of the heating device in the high-temperature heating mode,If the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is equal to or above the reference temperature, when the operating time of the heating device reaches the boiling time, the operation of the heating device will be stopped, or , during the operation of the heating device in the high-temperature heating mode, If the detected temperature is less than the reference temperature, Continue Determine the temperature rise of the hot water within a predetermined time, Within the aforementioned predetermined time period If the temperature of the hot water rises, the heating device continues to operate. Within the aforementioned predetermined time period The system includes a control unit that terminates the operation of the heating device if the temperature of the hot water does not rise.

[0011] This water dispenser is further equipped with a high-temperature mode display unit that switches from a display indicating that the heating device is operating in the high-temperature heating mode to a display indicating that high-temperature hot water is available.

[0012] To achieve the above objective, according to one aspect of the control method for a water server of this disclosure, a control method for a water server equipped with a water supply function including hot water, comprising the steps of: storing the hot water in a hot water tank; starting a high-temperature heating mode operation by pressing and holding a hot water switch, and heating the hot water in the hot water tank with a heating device; acquiring temperature information from a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the hot water in the hot water tank; and starting the heating device by switching to the high-temperature heating mode triggered by pressing and holding the hot water switch. During the operation of the heating device in the high-temperature heating mode, If the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is equal to or above the reference temperature, when the operating time of the heating device reaches the boiling time, the operation of the heating device will be stopped, or , during the operation of the heating device in the high-temperature heating mode, If the detected temperature is less than the reference temperature, Continue Determine the temperature rise of the hot water within a predetermined time, Within the aforementioned predetermined time period If the temperature of the hot water rises, the heating device continues to operate. Within the aforementioned predetermined time period The process includes the step of terminating the operation of the heating device if the temperature of the hot water does not rise.

[0013] In this water dispenser control method, the step of switching from an indication that the heating device is operating in the high-temperature heating mode to an indication that high-temperature hot water is available may be included.

[0014] To achieve the above objective, according to one aspect of the program of this disclosure, a program to be executed by a computer includes a function to start high-temperature heating mode operation by pressing and holding a hot water switch, and to heat the hot water in a hot water tank with a heating device, a function to acquire temperature information from a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the hot water in the hot water tank, and a function to start the heating device by switching to the high-temperature heating mode triggered by pressing and holding the hot water switch. During the operation of the heating device in the high-temperature heating mode, If the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is equal to or above the reference temperature, when the operating time of the heating device reaches the boiling time, the operation of the heating device will be stopped, or , during the operation of the heating device in the high-temperature heating mode, If the detected temperature is less than the reference temperature, Continue Determine the temperature rise of the hot water within a predetermined time, Within the aforementioned predetermined time period If the temperature of the hot water rises, the heating device continues to operate. Within the aforementioned predetermined time period If the temperature of the hot water does not rise, the computer is instructed to execute a function to terminate the operation of the heating device.

[0015] In this program, the computer may also be instructed to execute a function that switches the display from "The heating device is operating" to "High-temperature hot water supply is possible" in the high-temperature heating mode.

[0016] To achieve the above objective, according to one aspect of the recording medium of this disclosure, it is a recording medium storing the program.

[0017] To achieve the above objective, according to one aspect of the control device for a water server of this disclosure, the control device for a water server includes a hot water tank for storing hot water, a heating device for heating the hot water in the hot water tank, a hot water switch assigned a high-temperature heating mode start function that starts high-temperature heating mode operation by a long press operation, and a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the hot water, and is equipped with a water supply function including the hot water, wherein the control device switches to the high-temperature heating mode and starts the heating device when the hot water switch is long pressed, During the operation of the heating device in the high-temperature heating mode,If the detected temperature of the temperature sensor is equal to or higher than the reference temperature, when the operation time of the heating device reaches the boiling completion time, the operation of the heating device is stopped, or , during the operation of the heating device in the high-temperature heating mode, If the detected temperature is less than the reference temperature, Continue determine the temperature rise of the hot water within a predetermined time, Within the aforementioned predetermined time period if there is a temperature rise of the hot water, continue the operation of the heating device, Within the aforementioned predetermined time period if there is no temperature rise of the hot water, the control unit terminates the operation of the heating device. [Advantageous Effects of Invention]

[0018] According to the present disclosure, any of the following effects can be obtained. (1) It is possible to meet highly versatile hot water demands, enable hot water discharge at high temperature in a timely manner when high-temperature hot water discharge is required, improve the convenience of the water dispenser that can also be applied to hot water cooking of hot water heated foods such as instant noodles, and meet a wide range of hot water demands.

[0019] (2) Since high-temperature hot water discharge is performed when requested, waste of power consumption can be suppressed, and high-temperature hot water discharge can be realized without using a heating device such as an electric pot intended only for high-temperature heating. (3) High-temperature hot water discharge can be realized while suppressing high-temperature boiling inside the water dispenser. [Brief Description of Drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing the water dispenser according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing the heating control function according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of heating control. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing the heating time and the temperature transition of hot water. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing the heating control function of the water dispenser according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6]This is a flowchart showing the heating control process. [Figure 7] This figure shows the heating time and the temperature change of the hot water. [Figure 8] This is a diagram showing a water dispenser according to the third embodiment. [Figure 9] This diagram shows the heating control function of a water dispenser according to the third embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure A shows the relationship between outside air temperature and water heating time, and Figure B shows a water heating time database. [Figure 11] This is a perspective view showing a water dispenser according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a diagram showing the functional components of a water dispenser. [Figure 13] Figure A shows the raw water supply operation, and Figure B shows the raw water supply operation to the hot water tank. [Figure 14] This is a diagram showing an example of the control panel. [Figure 15] This diagram shows the control unit for the water dispenser. [Figure 16] This flowchart shows the heating control procedure according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] This is a diagram showing heating control and information presentation. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0021] [First Embodiment] Figure 1 shows a water server 2 according to the first embodiment. The configuration shown in Figure 1 is an example, and this disclosure is not limited to such a configuration.

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

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

[0024] The high-temperature heating mode switch 10 is used by the control unit 12 to instruct the start of high-temperature heating mode control.

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

[0026] The information display unit 14, under the control of the control unit 12, displays temperature information such as hot water control and high-temperature heating control.

[0027] <Control by control unit 12> Figure 2 shows the heating control function of the water dispenser 2. This control function includes hot water control 18, high-temperature heating control 20, and information display control 22. Hot water control 18 is a control that maintains the raw water W, which is the basic function of the water dispenser 2, at a constant temperature, for example, a constant temperature of less than 90°C.

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

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

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

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

[0032] d) Monitoring and determination of boiling time tm: Monitoring and determination of boiling time tm is performed by the control unit 12. Monitoring of boiling time tm starts the timer 16 from the time of the reference temperature Tref, and the progression of boiling time tm starts based on that timing. Determination of boiling time tm is to determine whether the measured time t has reached the boiling time tm.

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

[0034] In this heating control, the information display control 22 causes the control unit 12 to display one of the following to the information display unit 14: hot water display, heating in progress display, or high temperature display. The hot water display displays the temperature information of the hot water HW while the hot water mode is running. The heating in progress display displays the temperature information while the high temperature heating mode is running. The high temperature display displays the temperature information of the hot water HW or high temperature water hHW after it has been heated to a high temperature in the high temperature heating mode.

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

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

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

[0038] When the high-temperature heating mode switch 10 is operated (YES in S102), the control unit 12 shifts to the high-temperature heating mode (S103). The heating device 6 starts a high-temperature heating operation under the control of the control unit 12 (S104). If the transition is to the high-temperature heating operation during the ongoing hot water control, continuing the heating operation of the heating device 6 is an example of the high-temperature heating operation.

[0039] The control unit 12 acquires temperature information of the hot water temperature HT from the temperature sensor 8, and determines whether the hot water temperature HT is equal to or higher than the reference temperature Tref (S105). If HT<Tref (NO in S105), the process enters a standby state until the point when HT≧Tref is satisfied. At the point when HT≧Tref is satisfied (YES in S105), the timer 16 starts timing under the control of the control unit 12 (S106).

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

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

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

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

[0044] <Water heating time and temperature changes> Figure 4 shows the change in hot water temperature HT, with heating time on the horizontal axis and water temperature on the vertical axis. When the high-temperature heating mode switch 10 is turned on at time t0, the high-temperature heating mode is started. Under the control of the control unit 12, the heating control of the heating device 6 transitions from the hot water control range (hot water control) to the high-temperature heating control range.

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

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

[0047] Even after this high-temperature heating operation ends, the hot water HW continues to be heated by the residual heat from the heating device 6 and the hot water tank 4. In other words, the temperature transitions to a maximum temperature Tmax that is higher than the temperature at the end of the high-temperature heating mode (t2).

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

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

[0050] (2) With conventional water dispensers, the need for high-temperature water was met by using kettles or electric kettles, but this hassle is eliminated.

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

[0052] (4) Even if the hot water HW is boiled for the set boiling time tm after reaching the reference temperature Tref, the temperature of the high-temperature water hHW will be, for example, around 92 [°C]. Even after ending the high-temperature heating mode, the residual heat of the heating device 6 can raise the temperature of the high-temperature water hHW to, for example, around 1 [°C]. Using such high-temperature water hHW allows for the rapid preparation of instant noodles and other simple dishes without compromising the taste or freshness of the noodles.

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

[0054] (6) In hot water control mode, a hot water display is shown, and in the transition from hot water control to high-temperature heating mode, a heating progress display is shown during the process, and after the water is heated to a high temperature, a high temperature display is shown, so that consumers can easily know the heating status of the water server 2.

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

[0056] [Second Embodiment] The water dispenser 2 of the second embodiment has the same configuration as the water dispenser 2 shown in Figure 1.

[0057] Figure 5 shows the control function of the water dispenser 2 according to the second embodiment. In this control function, the same parts as in Figure 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

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

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

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

[0061] f) Stopping the heating operation of the heating device 6: Even before reaching the boiling time tm, the control unit 12 stops the heating operation of the heating device 6.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0069] Even after this high-temperature heating operation is completed, the hot water HW is heated by the residual heat of the heating device 6 and the hot water tank 4, and has reached a temperature Tmax higher than the temperature of the hot water HW at the point when the continuous fixed time tq elapses.

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

[0071] (2) It is possible to prevent excessive high-temperature heating, suppress power consumption, and quickly provide high-temperature water hHW before the boiling time tm is reached.

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

[0073] This water dispenser 2 is equipped with a temperature sensor 24 that detects the ambient temperature. The temperature sensor 24 detects the ambient temperature in the environment in which the water dispenser 2 is installed. The control unit 12 acquires ambient temperature information from the temperature sensor 24 as temperature information for calculating the water heating time tm.

[0074] The control unit 12 is a computer and, in addition to the control described above, performs calculation control of the boiling time tm related to the ambient temperature Td. This calculation control uses measured values ​​of the ambient temperature Td and boiling time tm to calculate the boiling time tm related to the ambient temperature Td and generates a boiling time database 25. This boiling time database 25 is stored in the storage unit 54 of the control unit 12.

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

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

[0077] The high-temperature heating control 20 includes setting the reference temperature Tref for boiling, acquiring the ambient temperature Td, acquiring the boiling time tm, setting the boiling time tm, high-temperature heating control of the heating device 6, monitoring and determining the boiling time tm, monitoring and determining the temperature rise of the high-temperature water hHW, and terminating the heating operation of the heating device 6.

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

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

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

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

[0082] e) High-temperature heating control of heating device 6, f) Monitoring and determination of boiling time tm, and g) Monitoring and determination of temperature rise of high-temperature water hHW: The same as described above, so the explanation will be omitted.

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

[0084] The calculation control 26 for the boiling time tm is an example of the method for calculating the boiling time tm described herein. This calculation control 26 for the boiling time tm includes acquiring outside air temperature information, calculating the boiling time tm, and generating a boiling time database 25.

[0085] i) Acquisition of outside air temperature information: The control unit 12 acquires outside air temperature information representing multiple outside air temperatures Td measured by the temperature sensor 24.

[0086] j) Calculation of heating time tm: The control unit 12 calculates the heating time tm related to the ambient temperature Td based on actual measurements of the ambient temperature Td and heating time tm using the water server 2 product or prototype equipment.

[0087] k) Generation of the boiling time database 25: The control unit 12 stores the calculated boiling time tm, which is related to the outside air temperature Td, in the boiling time database 25.

[0088] <Relationship between ambient temperature Td and boiling time tm> Figure 10A shows a calibration curve L representing the relationship between ambient temperature Td and boiling time tm, with ambient temperature Td on the horizontal axis and boiling time tm on the vertical axis.

[0089] The boiling time tm is the time it takes to raise the temperature from warm water HW to high-temperature water hHW from the reference temperature Tref to the temperature Tmax before the high-temperature water hHW boils.

[0090] Therefore, by measuring multiple different ambient temperatures Td (=Td1, Td2, ..., Tdx) and measuring the corresponding boil-up times tm (=tm1, tm2, ..., tmx) for these measured values, boil-up time information representing boil-up times tm related to multiple ambient temperatures Td can be obtained, as shown in Figure 10A. This calibration curve L is just one example of a method for calculating boil-up time tm for ambient temperature Td, and this disclosure is not limited to this method.

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

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

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

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

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

[0096] (5) High-temperature water hHW can be provided in a timely and short time, thus reducing power consumption and enabling the realization of a highly convenient water server 2. [Examples]

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

[0098] This water dispenser 2, for example, has a rectangular server casing 28, which is equipped with a water container mounting section 29, an operation panel section 30, a hot water / cold water dispensing cover section 32, and a water dispensing receiving section 34.

[0099] The hot / cold water injection cover section 32 is equipped with an injection port 36 used for cold water injection or cold water injection, and an injection port 38 used for hot water injection or cold water injection. The water receiving section 34 is equipped with a drain section 40.

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

[0101] This water server 2 is equipped with a server chassis 28, on which a replaceable water container 100 is installed, raw water W is supplied from this water container 100 to produce chilled water CW in the chilled water tank 102, and hot water HW is produced in the hot water tank 4.

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

[0103] The water supply nozzle 106 of the water container 100 is positioned on top of the chilled water tank 102 through the top opening 108 of the server chassis 28.

[0104] The chilled water tank 102 is equipped with a valve mechanism 110 that regulates the supply of raw water W from the water container 100. This valve mechanism 110 includes an on-off valve 112 that opens and closes the water supply nozzle section 106. This on-off valve 112 is attached to the middle of an on-off arm section 114, and a float section 116 that receives buoyancy from the chilled water CW in the chilled water tank 102 is attached to the tip of the on-off arm section 114.

[0105] The chilled water tank 102 is equipped with an evaporator 118 of a cooling device 60 controlled by the control unit 12. This evaporator 118 circulates the refrigerant cooled by the cooling device 60, cools the raw water W through heat exchange between the refrigerant and the raw water W, and generates chilled water CW in the chilled water tank 102. A temperature sensor 87 is installed in the chilled water tank 102, and the detection output of the temperature sensor 87 is provided to the control unit 12, which then acquires the temperature information of the chilled water.

[0106] A separation plate 120 is installed in the chilled water tank 102 to separate raw water W and chilled water CW. This separation plate 120 has a recess 122 for receiving raw water W, and a water supply pipe 124 extending from the central opening of this recess 122 into the hot water tank 4. Raw water W is guided into the hot water tank 4 through the recess 122 of the separation plate 120 and the water supply pipe 124.

[0107] A heating device 6 controlled by a control unit 12 is installed in the hot water tank 4. This heating device 6 generates heat under the control of the control unit 12, heating the raw water W. This generates hot water HW from the raw water W. Furthermore, under the control of the control unit 12, the heating device 6 heats the hot water HW to high-temperature water hHW in high-temperature heating mode.

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

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

[0110] A water supply pipe 130 is connected to the bottom of the chilled water tank 102, and a hot water supply pipe 132 is connected to the top of the hot water tank 4. A chilled water solenoid valve 64 is installed on the water supply pipe 130, and a hot water solenoid valve 65 is installed on the hot water supply pipe 132. The chilled water solenoid valve 64 can be opened by the chilled water button 79 (Figure 14), and the hot water solenoid valve 65 can be opened by the hot water button 80 (Figure 14).

[0111] The operation panel unit 30 connected to the control unit 12 is equipped with an information display function as well as an operation function controlled by the control unit 12, and the information display function is an example of an information display unit 14.

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

[0113] As shown in Figure 13A, the raw water W pushes down the on-off valve 112 of the valve mechanism 110. The raw water W that has passed through the on-off valve 112 falls into the recess 122 of the separation plate 120 and flows into the chilled water tank 102 through multiple water passages 136 opened around the water supply hole 134 of the water supply pipe 124, while some of the raw water W flows into the hot water tank 4 through the water supply pipe 124 from the water supply hole 134.

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

[0115] When the hot water tank 4 is full, the supply from the cold water tank 102 becomes dominant, and the water level in the cold water tank 102 rises. This rise in water level causes the float section 116 to receive buoyancy, which raises the on-off valve 112 of the valve mechanism 110. This on-off valve 112 closes the water supply nozzle section 106, stopping the supply of raw water W.

[0116] Furthermore, the water level in the chilled water tank 102 is maintained at the upper limit level by receiving a supply of raw water W from the water container 100.

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

[0118] The cold water lamp 69, weakly cold lamp 70, hot water lamp 72, high temperature lamp 74, energy-saving lamp 75, and lock lamp 76 are examples of the lamp indicator unit 30-1. The cold water lamp 69 lights up green if the water temperature is appropriate when cold water can be dispensed, and orange if it is not appropriate. The weakly cold lamp 70 lights up when weakly cold water can be dispensed. The hot water lamp 72 lights up when hot water can be dispensed. The high temperature lamp 74 lights up when high temperature hot water can be dispensed. The energy-saving lamp 75 lights up in energy-saving mode and turns off when it is deactivated. The lock lamp 76 lights up when locked and turns off when unlocked.

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

[0120] The power saving button 82 is operated when starting power saving mode. The lock / unlock button 84 can be pressed briefly or long-pressed and is used to lock or unlock the device.

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

[0122] The control unit 12 is equipped with a processor 52. This processor 52 executes the OS (Operating System) located in the memory unit 54, the hot water control program and high-temperature heating control program of this disclosure, and the like.

[0123] The memory unit 54 is an example of a recording medium of this disclosure and includes memory elements such as ROM (Read-Only Memory) and RAM (Random-Access Memory). The ROM stores the OS, the hot water control program and high-temperature heating control program of this disclosure, and various control data. The RAM constitutes the work area for information processing.

[0124] The input / output (I / O) unit 56 is controlled by the processor 52 and used for control output and information input for the heating device 6 and other devices.

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

[0126] The lamp indicator unit 30-1 includes, as an example, a cold water lamp 69, a weak cooling lamp 70, a hot water lamp 72, a high-temperature lamp 74, an energy-saving lamp 75, and a lock lamp 76. Each of the lamps 69, 70, 72, 74, 75, and 76 lights up or turns off in response to the on / off output of the lamp drive unit 78 controlled by the processor 52.

[0127] The button control unit 30-2 includes a cold water button 79, a hot water button 80, an energy-saving button 82, a lock / unlock button 84, and others. Each of the buttons 79, 80, 82, and 84 is an example of a switch that opens and closes when operated. The switch inputs from each of the buttons 79, 80, 82, and 84 are taken up by I / O 56 under the control of the processor 52.

[0128] Temperature sensor 87 detects the temperature of chilled water under the control of processor 52, and temperature sensor 8 detects the temperature of hot water under the control of processor 52. Each detection information is taken up by I / O 56 under the control of processor 52.

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

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

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

[0132] If the hot water button 80 is pressed and held (YES in S302), the system switches to high-temperature heating mode (S303) and starts the heating device 6 (S304). This startup will continue the operation of the heating device 6 if it is already operating, or start the heating operation if it is stopped.

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

[0134] The control unit 12 starts measuring with the timer 16 when it detects a hot water temperature of 92°C (YES in S305) (S306), and monitors this measurement time t. The control unit 12 determines whether the heating time tm has elapsed for the measurement time t of the timer 16 (S307).

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

[0136] In this high-temperature heating mode, the control unit 12 determines whether the hot water temperature has risen during the continuous period tq = 1 minute (S310) before detecting a hot water temperature of 92 [°C] (NO in S305). If there is a temperature rise (NO in S310), the heating operation is in progress, so the process returns to S305 and heating continues.

[0137] In contrast, if there is no temperature rise (YES in S310), it can be assumed that the high-temperature water hHW has reached a high temperature before boiling, so heating is terminated, and the process transitions to S308 to stop the operation of the heating device 6.

[0138] <Heating operation and information display> Figure 17 shows the information displayed from hot water control, the start of the high-temperature heating mode, its control, and its shutdown.

[0139] Figure 17A shows an example of the hot water indicator G1 displayed by the hot water lamp 72. This hot water indicator G1 is displayed in the hot water control 18. In this case, the hot water lamp 72 is lit green.

[0140] Figure 17B shows an example of the high-temperature heating mode start indicator G2 and the heating in progress indicator G3 indicated by the high-temperature lamp 74. This high-temperature heating mode start indicator G2 and heating in progress indicator G3 are displayed when the high-temperature heating mode is started and controlled. In this case, the hot water lamp 72 is off, and the high-temperature lamp 74 is lit orange.

[0141] Figure 17C shows an example of the high temperature indicator G4 displayed by the high temperature lamp 74. This high temperature indicator G4 is displayed in the hot water control 18. In this case, the high temperature lamp 74 is lit green.

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

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

[0144] (2) In high-temperature heating control, for example, if there is no temperature rise in the high-temperature water hHW in the hot water tank 4 within a continuous period of 1 minute, the operation of the heating device 6 can be stopped even within the boiling time tm, thereby avoiding overheating or boiling of the high-temperature water hHW.

[0145] (3) The temperature rise of the high-temperature water hHW can be restricted to below a predetermined value, thus shortening the time required to heat the high-temperature water hHW, enabling the rapid provision of high-temperature water hHW, and reducing power consumption.

[0146] (4) By displaying information on the transition from hot water (HW) to high-temperature water (hHW), it can be easily recognized, and a highly convenient water server system can be realized.

[0147] [Other embodiments] (1) The water server 2 of this disclosure may acquire GPS information and present information on the boiling temperature of the hot water HW along with altitude information representing the elevation at the installation location.

[0148] (2) The water server 2 may be equipped with an atmospheric pressure sensor to acquire atmospheric pressure information, and this atmospheric pressure information may be used to calculate the boiling temperature information of water in the installation environment and present this boiling temperature information. In other words, by using means to acquire atmospheric pressure information such as an atmospheric pressure sensor, the boiling temperature information of water can be obtained directly, so the acquisition of altitude information can be omitted.

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

[0150] (4) In this embodiment, the function of the high-temperature heating mode switch 10 is assigned to pressing and holding the hot water button 80, but the high-temperature heating mode switch 10 may be installed separately from the hot water button 80.

[0151] As described above, the most preferred embodiments of this disclosure have been explained. This disclosure is not limited to those described above. Various modifications and changes are possible for those skilled in the art based on the gist of the invention as described in the claims or disclosed in the forms for carrying out the invention. It goes without saying that such modifications and changes are within the scope of this disclosure. [Industrial applicability]

[0152] This disclosure enables the easy creation of high-temperature water in a water dispenser that is hotter than the hot water temperature, and allows the water to be heated to a high temperature without causing boiling or abnormal vibrations, thereby providing a highly convenient water dispenser. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0153] 2 Water dispenser 4. Hot water tank 6 Heating device 7 Heating drive unit 8, 24, 87 Temperature sensors 10. High-temperature heating mode switch 12 Control Unit 14 Information presentation section 16 Timer 18. Hot water control 20 High-temperature heating control 22 Information Presentation Control 25. Water boiling time database 26. Calculation and control of boiling time 28 Server Chassis 29 Water container mounting section 30 Control Panel 30-1 Lamp Indicator 30-2 Button operation section 32 Hot water / cold water injection cover section 34 Water Inlet Receiving Section 36 Water inlet 38 pouring spout 40 Drainage section 52 processors 54 Memory section 56 I / O 60 Cooling device 61 Cooling drive unit 64. Cold water solenoid valve 65 Hot water solenoid valve 67. Cold water solenoid valve drive unit 68 Hot water solenoid valve drive unit 69 Cold water lamp 70 Low Cooling Lamp 72 Hot water lamp 74 High-temperature lamp 75 Energy-saving lamps 76 Lock Lamp 78 Lamp drive unit 79 Cold water button 80 Hot water button 82 Energy-saving button 84 Lock / Unlock Buttons 100 water containers 102 Cold water tank 106 Water supply nozzle section 108 Top opening 110 Valve mechanism 112 Shut-off valve 114 Opening / closing arm section 116 Float section 118 Evaporator 120 Separation Plates 122 Recessed area 124 Water supply pipe 126 Bypass pipe 128 Bypass valve 130 Water injection pipe 132 Pouring pipe 134 Water supply hole 136 Water passage holes

Claims

1. A water dispenser equipped with a water supply function that includes hot water, A hot water tank for storing the aforementioned hot water, A heating device for heating the hot water in the hot water tank, A hot water switch that has been assigned a high-temperature heating mode start function, which starts the high-temperature heating mode operation by pressing and holding the switch, A temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the hot water, A control unit that, upon pressing and holding the hot water switch, switches to the high-temperature heating mode and starts the heating device; if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is above the reference temperature while the heating device is operating in the high-temperature heating mode, stops the operation of the heating device when the operating time of the heating device reaches the boiling time; or, if the detected temperature is below the reference temperature while the heating device is operating in the high-temperature heating mode, determines the temperature rise of the hot water within a predetermined period of time; if the temperature of the hot water rises within the predetermined period of time, continues the operation of the heating device; and if the temperature of the hot water does not rise within the predetermined period of time, terminates the operation of the heating device. A water dispenser equipped with [features / equipment].

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

3. A control method for a water dispenser equipped with a water supply function that includes hot water, A step of storing the hot water in a hot water tank, The process involves starting the high-temperature heating mode operation by pressing and holding the hot water switch, and heating the hot water in the hot water tank with the heating device, A step of acquiring temperature information from a temperature sensor that detects the hot water temperature in the hot water tank, A water server control method comprising the steps of: switching to the high-temperature heating mode and starting the heating device when the hot water switch is pressed and held; stopping the operation of the heating device when the operating time of the heating device reaches the boiling time if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is above a reference temperature while the heating device is operating in the high-temperature heating mode; or determining the temperature rise of the hot water within a predetermined period of time if the detected temperature is below the reference temperature while the heating device is operating in the high-temperature heating mode; continuing the operation of the heating device if the temperature of the hot water rises within the predetermined period of time; and terminating the operation of the heating device if the temperature of the hot water does not rise within the predetermined period of time.

4. Furthermore, the water server control method according to claim 3, further comprising the step of switching from a display indicating that the heating device is operating in the high-temperature heating mode to a display indicating that high-temperature hot water can be supplied.

5. A program to be executed by a computer, The hot water switch can be pressed and held to initiate the high-temperature heating mode, which heats the hot water in the hot water tank using the heating device. The function includes acquiring temperature information from a temperature sensor that detects the hot water temperature in the hot water tank, The heating device is activated by pressing and holding the hot water switch, which triggers the transition to the high-temperature heating mode. During operation of the heating device in the high-temperature heating mode, if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is above a reference temperature, the heating device stops operating when the operating time reaches the boiling time. Alternatively, during operation of the heating device in the high-temperature heating mode, if the detected temperature is below the reference temperature, the heating device determines the temperature rise of the hot water within a predetermined period of time. If the temperature of the hot water rises within the predetermined period of time, the heating device continues to operate. If the temperature of the hot water does not rise within the predetermined period of time, the heating device terminates. A program that causes the aforementioned computer to execute.

6. Furthermore, the program according to claim 5, which causes the computer to execute a function to switch from a display indicating that the heating device is operating to a display indicating that high-temperature hot water supply is possible in the high-temperature heating mode.

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

8. A hot water tank for storing hot water, A heating device for heating the hot water in the hot water tank, A hot water switch that has been assigned a high-temperature heating mode start function, which starts the high-temperature heating mode operation by pressing and holding the switch, A control device for a water server, comprising a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the hot water, and having a water supply function that includes the hot water, A control device for a water server, comprising a control unit that, when the hot water switch is pressed and held, initiates the transition to the high-temperature heating mode and starts the heating device; if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is above a reference temperature while the heating device is operating in the high-temperature heating mode, stops the operation of the heating device when the operating time of the heating device reaches the boiling time; or, if the detected temperature is below the reference temperature while the heating device is operating in the high-temperature heating mode, determines the temperature rise of the hot water within a predetermined period of time; if the temperature of the hot water rises within the predetermined period of time, continues the operation of the heating device; and if the temperature of the hot water does not rise within the predetermined period of time, terminates the operation of the heating device.

Citation Information

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