JP7736991B2 - Hot Water Systems and Servers - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a hot water supply system including a hot water supply apparatus and a server, and to a server capable of communicating with the hot water supply apparatus via an external communication network.

In recent years, subscription (leasing) businesses for water heaters have become popular. In these subscription businesses, customers can use the water heater by paying a monthly fee to the business owner.

Patent Document 1 describes an equipment management system that manages rented (leased) equipment such as water heaters using a server that can communicate with the equipment via a network.

Patent No. 4141769

It is possible that users may fall behind on paying the usage fees for the leased water heater. If users do not pay the usage fees properly, the business owner will not be able to make a fair profit, which could make it difficult to smoothly run the subscription business.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a hot water supply system and a server that can make it easier for users to pay overdue usage fees.

A first aspect of the present invention relates to a hot water supply system including a hot water supply device that can be used by paying a usage fee, and a server that can communicate with the hot water supply device via an external communication network. In the hot water supply system according to this aspect, the server includes a restriction request sending unit that sends a restriction request to the hot water supply device for which the usage fee is overdue, to cause the hot water supply device to perform hot water supply operation with restricted functions. The hot water supply device includes an input unit that accepts input for setting the hot water supply temperature in hot water supply operation, and a function restriction unit. Upon receiving the restriction request, the function restriction unit changes the hot water supply temperature that was set by input to the input unit and fixes it at the changed temperature.
A second aspect of the present invention relates to a hot water supply system including a hot water supply device that can be used by paying a usage fee and a server that can communicate with the hot water supply device via an external communication network. In the hot water supply system according to this aspect, the server includes a restriction request sending unit that sends a restriction request to the hot water supply device for which the usage fee is overdue, to cause the hot water supply device to perform hot water supply operation with restricted functions. The hot water supply device includes a function restriction unit. Based on the reception of the restriction request, the function restriction unit reduces the hot water outlet flow rate during hot water supply operation.

In the hot water supply systems according to the first and second aspects, a server sends a restriction request to a hot water supply device for which the usage fee is overdue, and the hot water supply device operates with its functions restricted based on the restriction request. This inconvenience to the user makes it more likely that the overdue usage fee will be paid. Moreover, because the hot water supply operation itself continues, it is unlikely to cause significant inconvenience to the user.

Furthermore, in the hot water supply system according to the first aspect , in a hot water supply device for which the usage fee is overdue, the functionality is restricted and the hot water temperature during hot water supply operation is changed and fixed at the changed temperature, making it difficult for the user to obtain hot water at the desired temperature, which is inconvenient. This makes it easier for the user to pay the overdue usage fee.

Furthermore, in the hot water supply system according to the second aspect , in a hot water supply device for which the usage fee is overdue, the functionality is restricted and the hot water flow rate during hot water supply operation is reduced, making it difficult for the user to obtain hot water at the desired flow rate, which is inconvenient. This makes it easier for the user to pay the overdue usage fee.

In the hot water supply system of the first or second aspect, the server may be configured to further include a stop request sending unit that sends a stop request to the hot water supply device for which the overdue usage fee has been paid, to cause the hot water supply device to stop performing hot water supply operation with the function restricted.

With the above configuration, once the overdue usage fee is paid, the water heater will return to a state in which its functions are restricted and it does not perform hot water heating operation, allowing the user to use the water heater as usual.

A third aspect of the present invention relates to a hot water supply system including a water heater that can be used by paying a usage fee and a server that can communicate with the water heater via an external communication network. In the hot water supply system according to this aspect, the water heater includes an input unit that accepts input for setting a hot water temperature during hot water supply operation, and a temperature setting unit that sets the hot water temperature based on the input accepted by the input unit. The server includes a change command sending unit that sends a temperature change command to change the hot water temperature to the water heater for which the usage fee is overdue. The temperature setting unit changes the hot water temperature that was set by the input to the input unit based on the temperature change command.

In the hot water supply system according to this aspect, a temperature change command is sent from the server to a hot water supply device for which usage fees are overdue, causing the hot water temperature during hot water supply operation to change from the temperature set by input into the input unit. This makes it difficult for users to obtain hot water at the desired temperature, which is inconvenient. This makes it easier for users to pay overdue usage fees.

In the hot water supply system according to this aspect, the temperature setting unit may be configured to send a temperature setting notification to the server when the hot water temperature is set by inputting into the input unit. In this case, the change command sending unit may be configured to send the temperature change command to the hot water supply device each time it receives the temperature setting notification from the hot water supply device for which the usage fee is overdue.

With the above configuration, in a water heater device where usage fees are overdue, each time the hot water temperature is set by inputting into the input unit, a temperature change command is sent from the server and the hot water temperature is changed. This effectively prohibits setting the hot water temperature by inputting into the input unit. This makes it more likely that the user will feel inconvenienced, and therefore more likely to pay the overdue usage fees.

In the above configuration, the change command transmission unit may be configured to terminate transmission of the temperature change command based on the temperature setting notification to the water heating device for which the overdue usage fee has been paid.

With this configuration, once the overdue usage fee is paid, the server will stop sending temperature change commands based on the temperature setting notification, and the water heater will return to a state where the hot water temperature can be set by inputting information into the input unit. This allows the user to use the water heater as usual.

A fourth aspect of the present invention relates to a water heating apparatus that can be used by paying a usage fee, and a server that can communicate with the water heating apparatus via an external communication network. The water heating apparatus includes an input unit that accepts input for setting the hot water temperature during hot water operation. The server includes a change command transmission unit that transmits a temperature change command to the water heating apparatus for which the usage fee is overdue, to forcibly change the hot water temperature that was set by input to the input unit.

The server according to this aspect can achieve the same effects as the third aspect.

As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a hot water supply system and a server that can make it easier for users to pay overdue usage fees.

The effects and significance of the present invention will become more apparent from the description of the embodiments shown below. However, the embodiment shown below is merely an example of how the present invention may be put into practice, and the present invention is in no way limited to the embodiments described below.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a hot water supply system according to the first embodiment. 2A and 2B are diagrams showing the configurations of a bathroom remote control and a kitchen remote control, respectively, according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing circuit blocks of each device constituting the hot water supply system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of a combustion system and piping of the water heater according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the control unit of the server to execute the function of dealing with overdue usage fees according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the process performed by the control unit of the kitchen remote controller of the water heater to execute the function of dealing with overdue charges according to the first embodiment. Fig. 7(a) is a flowchart showing the processing performed in the control unit of the kitchen remote control and the control unit of the bathroom remote control of the water heater to execute the function of dealing with overdue usage fees according to embodiment 1. Fig. 7(b) is a diagram showing an example of a notification screen according to embodiment 1. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing processing performed in the control unit of the water heater of the water heater in order to execute a function for dealing with non-payment of a usage fee according to the first embodiment. 9A is a flowchart showing a process performed in the control unit of the kitchen remote control and the control unit of the bathroom remote control of the water heater to execute a function for dealing with overdue charges according to embodiment 1. FIG. 9B is a diagram showing an example of a notification screen according to embodiment 1. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing circuit blocks of each device constituting the hot water supply system according to the first modified example. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the control unit of the server to execute the function of dealing with overdue usage fees according to the first modification. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing circuit blocks of each device constituting the hot water supply system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the control unit of the server to execute the function of dealing with non-payment of usage fees according to the second embodiment. Fig. 14(a) is a flowchart showing a forced temperature change process according to embodiment 2. Fig. 14(b) is a flowchart showing a process performed in a control unit of a water heater of a water heating device to execute a function for dealing with non-payment of a usage fee according to embodiment 2.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

<Embodiment 1>
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a hot water supply system 1 according to the first embodiment.

In this embodiment, a business model in which a water heating apparatus 10 is leased to a user is established in the water heating system 1. The leased water heating apparatus 10 is managed by the server 50.

The water heating apparatus 10 transmits usage information regarding the usage of the water heating apparatus 10 to the server 50 via the external communication network 40. The server 50 calculates the usage fee for the water heating apparatus 10 based on the received usage information. The usage information may be, for example, the usage time (operating time) and number of uses (number of times operated) of the water heating apparatus 10, and the usage fee increases as the usage time and number of uses increase. The usage fee is calculated, for example, on a monthly basis. Billing information including the calculated usage fee can be transmitted to a mobile terminal device 30 associated with the water heating apparatus 10. The user can check the billing information for the water heating apparatus 10 via the mobile terminal device 30. The billing information may also be transmitted to a fixed terminal device such as a stationary personal computer.

Furthermore, the hot water supply system 1 has a function for dealing with overdue usage fees to prevent continued use of the hot water supply device 10 when usage fees are overdue.

If a leased water heating apparatus 10 falls behind in payment of its usage fees, the server 50 sends notification information to the water heating apparatus 10 in question. When the water heating apparatus 10 receives the notification information, it issues a notification urging the user to pay the overdue usage fees. The notification includes the payment due date. If the usage fees are not paid by the due date, the server 50 sends a restriction request to the water heating apparatus 10 in question. When the water heating apparatus 10 receives the restriction request, it operates to supply hot water with restricted functions (for example, prohibiting changes to the hot water temperature setting). This makes it difficult for the user to use the water heating apparatus 10 until the overdue usage fees are paid.

As shown in FIG. 1, the hot water supply system 1 includes a hot water supply device 10 and a server 50. When the mobile terminal device 30 is located inside the home H10, the server 50 can communicate with the mobile terminal device 30 via the router 20 and the external communication network 40. Furthermore, when the mobile terminal device 30 is located outside the home, the server 50 can also communicate with the mobile terminal device 30 via the external communication network 40 and a communication system located outside the home (a base station or private router).

The water heater 10 includes a water heater 11 and remote controllers 12 and 13. The water heater 11 is a gas water heater that supplies hot water using gas as fuel. In other words, the water heater 10 is a combustion-type water heater that heats water with combustion gases produced by burning gas fuel. The water heater 10 may also be a combustion-type water heater that heats water with combustion gases produced by burning oil fuel.

Hot water produced by the water heater 11 is supplied to kitchen faucets, bathtubs, faucets, etc. Hot water is also supplied from the water heater 11 to the respective devices (heating terminals) that provide floor heating, room heating, and bathroom heating functions.

Remote controllers 12 and 13 are connected to water heater 11 and are used to make various settings and execute instructions for each function of water heater 10. Remote controller 12 has a display unit 121 consisting of a liquid crystal panel and an input unit 122, while remote controller 13 has a display input unit 131 consisting of a touch panel and an operation button 132. The operator can make any settings for filling the water tank, adjusting the hot water temperature, etc. by operating input unit 122 according to the screen displayed on display unit 121. The operator can also make settings for filling the water tank, etc. by operating display input unit 131.

Remote controller 12 is installed in the bathroom, and remote controller 13 is installed in the kitchen, etc. Remote controllers 12 and 13 are provided with audio windows 12a and 13a for inputting and outputting audio.

Hereinafter, the remote controller 12 installed in the bathroom will be referred to as the "bathroom remote control 12," and the remote controller 13 installed in the kitchen, etc. will be referred to as the "kitchen remote control 13."

Figures 2(a) and (b) show the configurations of the bathroom remote control 12 and kitchen remote control 13, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 2(a), the input section 122 of the bathroom remote control 12 includes an operation button 122a, an automatic bath button 122b, a reheating button 122c, a hot water temperature setting button 122d, a bath temperature setting button 122e, and a call button 122f.

The operation button 122a is a button for switching the water heater 11 between an operation on state and an operation off state. When the operation is on, if a hot water tap such as a faucet is opened and water flows at a rate greater than the reference flow rate, the hot water supply function starts operating, the water heater 11 starts combustion, and the hot water generated is supplied to the faucet. Therefore, the operation button 122a can also be said to be a button for executing the hot water supply function's hot water supply operation.

The automatic bath button 122b is a button for executing the hot water supply operation of the automatic bath function, which maintains the water temperature after filling the bathtub with hot water. The reheating button 122c is a button for executing the hot water supply operation of the reheating function, which reheats the water in the bathtub. The automatic bath function combines the hot water supply function that supplies hot water to the bathtub and the reheating function that reheats the water in the bathtub to maintain the water temperature.

The hot water temperature setting button 122d is a button for setting the hot water temperature, which is the temperature of the hot water supplied to the faucet, etc., by the hot water supply operation of the hot water supply function. The bath temperature setting button 122e is a button for setting the bath temperature, which is the temperature of the hot water stored in the bathtub. In the hot water supply operation of the automatic function, the bath temperature can also be said to be the hot water temperature when hot water is supplied to the bathtub by the hot water supply function.

The call button 122f is a button for executing the call function to make a call between the bathroom remote control 12 and the kitchen remote control 13.

As shown in FIG. 2(b), the display input section 131 of the kitchen remote control 13 includes soft buttons displayed on the screen: automatic bath button 131a, reheat button 131b, hot water temperature setting button 131c, bath temperature setting button 131d, call button 131e, floor heating button 131f, room heating button 131g, and bathroom heating button 131h. The operation button 132, automatic bath button 131a, reheat button 131b, hot water temperature setting button 131c, bath temperature setting button 131d, and call button 131e have the same functions as the operation button 122a, automatic bath button 122b, reheat button 122c, hot water temperature setting button 122d, bath temperature setting button 122e, and call button 122f, respectively. The floor heating button 131f is a button for executing the hot water supply operation of the floor heating function, which supplies hot water to the floor heater to heat the floor. The room heating button 131g is a button for executing the hot water supply operation of the room heating function, which supplies hot water to an room heater such as a panel heater to heat the room. The bathroom heating button 131h is a button for executing the hot water supply operation of the bathroom heating function, which supplies hot water to a bathroom ventilating, drying and heating unit to heat the bathroom. The bathroom heating function includes heating for drying laundry, etc., i.e., bathroom drying.

The operation button 132 is a button for switching the water heater 11 between an operation on state and an operation off state.

When the bathroom remote control 12 and kitchen remote control 13 are in the operation-off state, the display unit 121 and display input unit 131 are off, and operation of the operation buttons 122b-122f, 131a-131h other than the operation buttons 122a and 132 is not accepted. When the operation buttons 122a and 132 are operated to switch the operation on, the display unit 121 and display input unit 131 light up, the settings are displayed, and operation of each operation button becomes acceptable.

Returning to FIG. 1, the router 20 is a communication repeater that connects each device present within a building (here, home H10) to an external communication network 40. When a mobile terminal device 30 is present within home H10, the mobile terminal device 30 is connected to the router 20 via wireless communication and can communicate with the server 50. The mobile terminal device 30 is, for example, a mobile phone. Alternatively, the mobile terminal device 30 may be another portable terminal device, such as a portable tablet terminal. The external communication network 40 is, for example, the Internet.

A server 50 for managing the water heater 10 is connected to the external communication network 40. The kitchen remote control 13 communicates with the server 50 via the router 20 and the external communication network 40.

The application program for the hot water supply system 1 is downloaded from the server 50 and installed on the kitchen remote control 13. This application program includes address information (e.g., an IP address) for accessing the server 50. The kitchen remote control 13 accesses and communicates with the server 50 based on this address information.

The address information of the kitchen remote control 13 is sent to the server 50 during initial setup and registered with the server 50. Furthermore, the ID information (identification information) of the kitchen remote control 13 is sent from the kitchen remote control 13 to the server 50 and registered with the server 50.

In addition, the address information of the mobile terminal device 30 is registered in the server 50 in association with the ID information of the kitchen remote control 13. For example, the address information (email address) of emails that the mobile terminal device 30 can receive is registered as the address information of the mobile terminal device 30. The server 50 uses this address information as the destination address to send billing information for the water heating apparatus 10 (kitchen remote control 13) associated with the mobile terminal device 30.

Figure 3 shows the circuit blocks of each device that makes up the hot water supply system 1.

The water heater 11 includes a control unit 111, a memory unit 112, a communication unit 113, and a detection unit 114. The control unit 111 includes a microcomputer and controls each unit within the water heater 11 in accordance with a program stored in the memory unit 112. The memory unit 112 includes memory and stores a predetermined control program.

In this embodiment, the control unit 111 is given the functions of the function restriction unit 111a by a control program stored in the memory unit 112. As described below, the function restriction unit 111a performs function restriction processing to cause the water heater 10 to operate in a function-restricted state based on receiving a restriction request from the server 50. Specifically, as part of the function restriction processing, the function restriction unit 111a changes the hot water temperature set by input to the input unit 122 (hot water temperature setting button 122d) or the display input unit 131 (hot water temperature setting button 131c) and fixes it at the changed temperature. Furthermore, as part of the function restriction processing, the function restriction unit 111a reduces the hot water outlet flow rate during hot water operation.

The communication unit 113 communicates with the bathroom remote control 12 and the kitchen remote control 13 in accordance with control from the control unit 111. The communication unit 113 is connected to the communication unit 125 of the bathroom remote control 12 and the communication unit 135 of the kitchen remote control 13 via two-core communication lines L1 and L2. The two-core communication lines L1 and L2 are also connected to each other inside the communication unit 113. Therefore, the communication unit 125 of the bathroom remote control 12 and the communication unit 135 of the kitchen remote control 13 are connected to each other via the two-core communication lines L1 and L2. Therefore, a signal transmitted from any of the communication units 113, 125, and 135 is simultaneously transmitted to the other communication units.

The detection unit 114 includes various sensors arranged in the water heater 11. For example, the detection unit 114 includes a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of hot and cold water, a flow rate sensor for detecting the supply of hot and cold water, etc.

Figure 4 is a diagram showing the combustion system and piping configuration of the water heater 11.

The water heater 11 is equipped with a first supply unit 210 and a second supply unit 220 within a housing 200 that forms its outer shell. The first supply unit 210 generates hot water for hot water supply and supplies it to hot water supply terminals such as faucets and bathtubs for the hot water supply function. The second supply unit 220 generates hot water for heating and supplies it to heating terminals such as floor heaters for the heating function, which includes floor heating, room heating, and bathroom heating. Furthermore, the second supply unit 220 generates hot water for reheating and supplies it to the bathtub for the reheating function.

Furthermore, the housing 200 houses a can body 250 that forms the combustion chamber, and a fan 260 that supplies air for combustion to the inside of the can body 250. The exhaust port 251 of the can body 250 is led to the outside from the top surface of the housing 200.

The first supply unit 210 includes a primary heat exchanger 211, a secondary heat exchanger 212, and a combustor 213. The combustor 213 is a gas burner that burns fuel gas. The primary heat exchanger 211 and the secondary heat exchanger 212 recover heat from the combustion gas generated in the combustor 213 and heat the water flowing through the water inlet pipe 214. Water is supplied to the water inlet pipe 214 from a water source. Hot water generated by heat exchange in the primary heat exchanger 211 and the secondary heat exchanger 212 is discharged from the hot water outlet pipe 215. The discharged hot water is supplied to kitchen and bathroom faucets and bathtubs.

A bypass pipe 216 is provided between the water inlet pipe 214 and the hot water outlet pipe 215. A flow rate control valve 217 controlled by the control unit 111 is installed in this bypass pipe 216. When the flow rate control valve 217 is opened, water flows from the water inlet pipe 214 to the hot water outlet pipe 215 via the bypass pipe 216. In this way, the water mixes with the hot water flowing through the hot water outlet pipe 215, adjusting the temperature of the hot water. The hot water temperature can also be adjusted by adjusting the flow rate of hot water flowing through the water inlet pipe 214 and the hot water outlet pipe 215 using the flow rate control valve 218 provided in the hot water outlet pipe 215. The flow rate control valve 218 may be provided in the water inlet pipe 214.

Fuel gas is supplied to the combustor 213 via a gas pipe 271. A main gas solenoid valve 272 is installed in the gas pipe 271 to switch the supply and cut-off of fuel gas. The main gas solenoid valve 272 is controlled by the control unit 111. The gas pipe 271 branches into two flow paths 271a and 271b downstream of the main gas solenoid valve 272. Proportional valves 273 and 274 are installed in flow paths 271a and 271b, respectively, to control the flow rate of fuel gas. The proportional valves 273 and 274 are controlled by the control unit 111.

Flow paths 271a and 271b are connected to combustors 213 and 223, respectively. When the main gas solenoid valve 272 is opened, fuel gas is supplied to the combustors 213 and 223 at a flow rate determined by the proportional valves 273 and 274. This allows the combustors 213 and 223 to perform combustion at a predetermined combustion rate.

The second supply section 220 includes a primary heat exchanger 221, a secondary heat exchanger 222, and a combustor 223. The combustor 223 is a gas burner that burns fuel gas. The primary heat exchanger 221 and the secondary heat exchanger 222 each recover heat from the combustion gas generated in the combustor 223 and heat the water flowing through the flow pipes 234 and 233.

For the heating function, hot water dispensed from circulation pipe 231 is supplied to heating terminals that require relatively high temperature water (for example, around 80°C), i.e., an indoor heater and a bathroom ventilation/dryer/heater. Hot water dispensed from circulation pipe 232 is supplied to heating terminals that require relatively low temperature water (for example, around 60°C), i.e., a floor heater. The hot water circulated through these heating terminals is returned to circulation pipe 233. In other words, a circulation path between the heating terminals is formed by circulation pipes 231, 232, and 233, the piping connecting these circulation pipes to the heating terminals, and circulation pipes 234 and 235.

An expansion tank 236 and pump 237 are installed to circulate hot water between the heating flow path and the heating terminals. When the pump 237 is driven by the control unit 111, the hot water in the expansion tank 236 is introduced into each heating terminal through the circulation pipes 231 and 232, and the hot water that has passed through each heating terminal is returned to the circulation pipe 233. The hot water returned to the circulation pipe 233 is heated in the secondary heat exchanger 222 and stored in the expansion tank 236.

The low-temperature hot water stored in the expansion tank 236 is supplied to the low-temperature heating terminal through the circulation pipe 232. The low-temperature hot water stored in the expansion tank 236 is also circulated through the circulation pipe 234 to the primary heat exchanger 221, where it is heated to high temperature. The high-temperature hot water is then supplied to the high-temperature heating terminal through the circulation pipe 231. At this time, the flow control valve 238 installed in the circulation pipe 235 is opened by the control unit 111 as appropriate. This allows the low-temperature hot water in the expansion tank 236 to mix with the high-temperature hot water flowing through the circulation pipe 231, adjusting the temperature of the hot water dispensed from the circulation pipe 231. In this way, low-temperature or high-temperature hot water is circulated between each heating terminal and the primary heat exchanger 221 and secondary heat exchanger 222. The circulation pipes 231 and 232 are equipped with on-off valves (not shown); when supplying hot water only to the high-temperature heating terminal, the on-off valve of the low-temperature circulation pipe 232 is closed, and when supplying hot water only to the low-temperature heating terminal, the on-off valve of the high-temperature circulation pipe 231 is closed.

For the reheating function, hot water dispensed from circulation pipe 241 is supplied to the bathtub and then returned from the bathtub to circulation pipe 243. In other words, circulation pipes 241 and 242 and the piping connecting these circulation pipes to the bathtub form a circulation path between the bathtub and the hot water. A pump 244 is installed in circulation pipe 242 to circulate the hot water between the bathtub and the circulation pipe. Furthermore, a liquid-liquid heat exchanger 245 is installed in circulation pipe 242 to exchange heat with the hot water flowing through circulation pipe 243.

When reheating water, the control unit 111 drives the pump 237 and opens the on-off valve 246. As a result, hot water heated in the primary heat exchanger 221 flows through the circulation pipe 243, and the hot water flowing through the circulation pipe 242 is heated by the liquid-liquid heat exchanger 245. The heated hot water is supplied to the bathtub by driving the pump 244. In this way, the hot water circulating between the bathtub and the circulation pipes 241 and 242 is heated by the liquid-liquid heat exchanger 245, thereby reheating the hot water in the bathtub.

In addition, various sensors for executing the hot water supply operation are installed inside the housing 200. Specifically, seven thermistors S1 to S7 (temperature sensors) are installed inside the housing 200.

Thermistor S1 detects the temperature of the hot water just before it is dispensed from the hot water outlet pipe 215, and thermistor S2 detects the temperature of the hot water flowing through the hot water outlet pipe 215 near the outlet of the water heater body 250 as the hot water supply temperature. Thermistors S3 and S4 detect the temperature of the hot water just before it is dispensed from the circulation pipes 231 and 232 to each heating terminal, respectively, and thermistor S5 detects the temperature of the hot water returned from each heating terminal to the circulation pipe 233. Thermistor S6 detects the temperature of the hot water just before it is dispensed from the circulation pipe 241 into the bathtub, and thermistor S7 detects the temperature of the hot water returned from the bathtub to the circulation pipe 242.

In addition, a flow rate sensor S8 is installed inside the housing 200 to detect the flow rate of hot water flowing through the hot water outlet pipe 215. When the operation is on, the control unit 111 activates the first supply unit 210 when the flow rate sensor S8 detects a flow rate above a predetermined amount. This starts the hot water supply function.

Thermistors S1 to S7 and flow sensor S8 are included in the detection unit 114 in Figure 3.

Returning to Figure 3, the bathroom remote control 12 includes the display unit 121 and input unit 122 described above, as well as a control unit 123, a memory unit 124, a communication unit 125, a microphone 126, and a speaker 127.

The control unit 123 includes a microcomputer and performs predetermined control according to a program stored in the storage unit 124. The storage unit 124 includes memory and stores predetermined control programs.

The communication unit 125 communicates with the water heater 11 and the kitchen remote control 13 under control of the control unit 123.

The microphone 126 collects audio through the audio window 12a and outputs an audio signal. The speaker 127 outputs audio based on the audio signal through the audio window 12a. In the call function, audio input to the microphone 126 is transmitted to the kitchen remote control 13, and audio received from the kitchen remote control 13 is output from the speaker 127.

In addition to the display input unit 131 and operation button 132 described above, the kitchen remote control 13 also includes a control unit 133, a memory unit 134, a communication unit 135, a microphone 136, a speaker 137, and a wireless communication unit 138.

The control unit 133 includes a microcomputer and performs predetermined control according to a program stored in the memory unit 134. The memory unit 134 includes memory and stores predetermined control programs. The communication unit 135 communicates with the water heater 11 and bathroom remote control 12 according to control from the control unit 133.

The microphone 136 collects sound through the audio window 13a and outputs an audio signal. The speaker 137 outputs sound based on the audio signal through the audio window 13a. In the call function, sound input to the microphone 136 is transmitted to the bathroom remote control 12, and sound received from the bathroom remote control 12 is output from the speaker 137.

The wireless communication unit 138 is a wireless communication module capable of wireless communication with the router 20. The address information and ID information of the wireless communication unit 138 are registered in the server 50 as the address information and ID information of the kitchen remote control 13 (hot water heater 10).

In this embodiment, in the bathroom remote control 12 and the kitchen remote control 13, the functions of the notification processing units 123a and 133a are given to the control units 123 and 133 by a control program stored in the memory units 124 and 134. In the kitchen remote control 13, the functions of the notification mode setting unit 133b are given to the control unit 133 by a control program stored in the memory unit 134. The notification mode setting unit 133b sets the notification mode based on receiving notification information from the server 50, as described below. While set in the notification mode, the notification processing units 123a and 133a cause the notification units, the display unit 121 and the display input unit 131, to issue a notification urging payment of the usage fee based on the establishment of predetermined notification conditions, as described below.

The server 50 comprises a control unit 501, a storage unit 502, and a communication unit 503. The control unit 501 comprises a CPU and performs predetermined control in accordance with programs stored in the storage unit 502. The storage unit 502 comprises memory and a hard disk, and stores predetermined control programs and databases. The communication unit 503 performs predetermined control in accordance with control from the control unit 501.

In this embodiment, the control program stored in the memory unit 502 provides the control unit 501 with the functions of a restriction request transmission unit 501a, a stop request transmission unit 501b, a notification information transmission unit 501c, and a notification cancellation information transmission unit 501d.

As described below, the restriction request sending unit 501a sends a restriction request to a water heating apparatus 10 for which usage fees are in arrears and the overdue usage fees have not been paid by the due date, in order to cause the water heating apparatus 10 to operate in a restricted function state.

As described below, the stop request sending unit 501b sends a stop request to the water heating apparatus 10 for which the overdue usage fee has been paid, in order to stop the water heating apparatus 10 from performing hot water supply operation with limited functionality.

As described below, the notification information transmission unit 501c transmits notification information to a water heating apparatus 10 for which the usage fee is overdue, causing the display unit 121 of the water heating apparatus 10 to issue a notification urging the user to pay the usage fee.

The notification cancellation information transmission unit 501d transmits cancellation information to cancel the notification mode to water heating devices 10 for which the overdue usage fee has been paid, as described below.

The hot water supply system 1 has a function for dealing with overdue usage fees to prevent continued use of the hot water supply device 10 when usage fees are overdue.

Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the control unit 501 of the server 50 to execute the function of dealing with non-payment of usage fees. This processing is performed by the functions of the restriction request transmission unit 501a, the stop request transmission unit 501b, the notification information transmission unit 501c, and the notification cancellation information transmission unit 501d shown in Figure 3.

The control unit 501 monitors whether delinquent payment information indicating that a usage fee has been delinquent has been acquired (S101). The control unit 501 also monitors whether payment information indicating that a delinquent usage fee has been paid has been acquired (S102). The control unit 501 also monitors whether a water heating device 10 has passed the payment due date for a delinquent usage fee (S103).

When a usage fee becomes overdue, a server (not shown) that manages the collection of usage fees sends overdue payment information to server 50 via external communications network 40. Furthermore, once the overdue usage fee is paid, the server sends payment information to server 50. The overdue payment information and payment information include the ID information of the water heating apparatus 10 (kitchen remote control 13) in question so that the relevant water heating apparatus 10 can be identified. The overdue payment information also includes the payment due date. The overdue payment information and payment information may be sent from a terminal device such as a personal computer connected to server 50 via a LAN or the like, or may be entered directly into server 50 via an input unit such as a keyboard.

The server 50's memory unit 502 stores the payment due date extracted from the delinquency information in association with ID information. The control unit 501 can determine whether the payment due date has passed by referencing the payment due date stored in the memory unit 502. It may also be possible to determine whether the payment due date has passed by receiving overdue information indicating the overdue date from a server that manages the collection of usage fees. In this case, the overdue information includes the ID information of the water heating apparatus 10 whose payment due date has passed.

When the control unit 501 acquires the delinquency information (S101: YES), it identifies the water heating apparatus 10 for which the usage fee is overdue from the ID information included in the delinquency information, and transmits notification information to that water heating apparatus 10 to notify the water heating apparatus 10 of the usage fee payment (S104). For example, the notification information may be a notification request requesting a notification. In this case, the payment due date is added to the notification request. Alternatively, the notification information may be notification data such as image data, text data, or audio data containing content (including the payment due date) urging the user to pay the usage fee.

As described below, the water heater 10 sets the notification mode based on the reception of notification information, and during the notification mode, it issues notifications prompting the user to pay the usage fee as appropriate.

When the control unit 501 acquires the payment information (S102: YES), it identifies the water heating apparatus 10 for which the usage fee has been paid from the ID information included in the payment information, and determines whether the payment deadline for that water heating apparatus 10 has arrived by referencing the payment due date in the memory unit 502 (S105).

If the payment deadline is not yet reached (S105: YES), the control unit 501 transmits cancellation information to the water heating apparatus 10 for which payment has been made to cancel the notification mode (S106). For example, the cancellation information may be a cancellation request requesting cancellation. Alternatively, the cancellation information may be a payment completion notification notifying that payment of the usage fee has been completed.

As described below, the water heater 10 will cancel the notification mode upon receiving the cancellation information, and will no longer issue notifications urging payment of usage fees.

As described below, when the payment due date has passed, the water heating apparatus 10 executes a function restriction process based on a restriction request from the server 50, causing the water heating apparatus 10 to operate with restricted functions. Therefore, if the control unit 501 determines that the payment is not yet due (the payment due date has passed) (S105: NO), it sends a stop request to the water heating apparatus 10 that has paid, causing the water heating apparatus 10 to stop operating with restricted functions, i.e., to remove the restrictions imposed by the function restriction process (S107).

As described below, upon receiving the stop request, the water heater 10 will remove the restrictions imposed by the function restriction process, allowing normal water heater operation.

When a water heating apparatus 10 for which the payment due date for overdue usage fees has passed (S103: YES), the control unit 501 sends a restriction request to the water heating apparatus 10 for which the payment due date has passed (S108).

As described below, the water heater 10 executes a function restriction process upon receiving the restriction request, and the water heater 10 enters a state in which it operates to supply hot water with its functions restricted.

Furthermore, the control unit 501 transmits cancellation information to cancel the notification mode to the water heating apparatus 10 whose payment due date has passed (S109). This causes the notification mode to be canceled in the water heating apparatus 10.

Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the control unit 133 of the kitchen remote control 13 of the water heater 10 to execute the function of dealing with overdue usage fees. This processing is for setting and canceling the alarm mode, and is executed by the function of the alarm mode setting unit 133b in Figure 3.

The control unit 133 monitors whether notification information has been received from the server 50 (S201). When a water heating apparatus 10 falls behind on its usage fee, notification information is sent to the water heating apparatus 10 by processing step S104 in FIG. 5. When the control unit 133 receives notification information (S201: YES), it sets the control unit 133 to a notification mode in which a notification urging payment of the usage fee is issued (S202).

Next, control unit 133 monitors whether notification mode cancellation information has been received from server 50 (S203). When the overdue usage fee is paid, cancellation information is sent to water heating apparatus 10 by processing step S106 in FIG. 5. Furthermore, when the due date for payment of the overdue usage fee has passed, cancellation information is sent to water heating apparatus 10 by processing step S109 in FIG. 5. When control unit 133 receives cancellation information (S203: YES), it cancels the notification mode (S204).

Figure 7(a) is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the control unit 133 of the kitchen remote control 13 and the control unit 123 of the bathroom remote control 12 of the water heater 10 to execute a function for dealing with overdue usage fees. This processing is a notification processing for issuing a notification to prompt payment of the usage fee. The notification processing in the kitchen remote control 13 is executed by the function of the notification processing unit 133a in Figure 3, and the notification processing in the bathroom remote control 12 is executed by the function of the notification processing unit 123a in Figure 3.

The following describes the notification process performed by the kitchen remote control 13, but the same applies to the notification process performed by the bathroom remote control 12.

When the notification mode is set by the processing in Figure 6, the notification processing in Figure 7(a) begins.

The control unit 133 monitors whether a predetermined notification condition has been met (S301). For example, the notification condition may be that the operation button 132 and the operation buttons 131a to 131h displayed on the display input unit 131 have been pressed. Alternatively, the notification condition may be that the hot water supply operation of each function, such as the hot water supply function, has started. If notifications are made at regular time intervals, the notification condition may also be that a certain amount of time has passed. There may be one or more notification conditions.

When the notification condition is met, for example, when a button on the kitchen remote control 13 is operated (S301: YES), the control unit 133 causes the display input unit 131, which is the notification unit, to display a notification screen 610 as a notification urging the user to pay the usage fee (S302). When the user sees the notification screen 610, they can recognize that the usage fee is overdue and that payment is required.

Figure 7(b) is a diagram showing an example of a notification screen 610. The notification screen 610 includes a message 611 prompting payment of the usage fee and a payment due date 612. If the notification information sent from the server 50 is a notification request, image data (notification data) of the notification screen 610 including the payment due date added to the notification request is generated and stored in the memory unit 134. If the notification information is image data (notification data) itself, the image data is stored in the memory unit 134. This image data (notification data) is output to the display input unit 131, and the notification screen 610 is displayed.

After a predetermined time has elapsed, the notification screen 610 will close. Alternatively, if the notification screen 610 includes a confirmation button, the notification screen 610 will close when the confirmation button is pressed.

In addition to or instead of the notification via the notification screen 610, the control unit 133 may output a message urging payment of the usage fee and the payment due date by voice from the notification unit, speaker 137. Furthermore, the notification (such as notification screen 610) may include a notification that if the usage fee is not paid by the due date, the water heating apparatus 10 will operate with limited functionality.

If the notification mode is canceled by the processing in FIG. 6 while the notification conditions are being monitored (S303: YES), the control unit 133 terminates the notification processing.

In this way, in the water heater 10, while the notification mode is set on the kitchen remote control 13 and bathroom remote control 12, a notification urging payment of the usage fee is issued each time the notification conditions are met.

Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the control unit 111 of the water heater 11 of the water heating apparatus 10 to execute the function of dealing with overdue usage fees. This processing is performed by the function of the function restriction unit 111a in Figure 3.

Control unit 111 monitors whether a restriction request has been received from server 50 (S401). If the overdue usage fee remains unpaid and the payment due date has passed, a restriction request is sent to water heating apparatus 10 by the processing of step S108 in FIG. 5. When control unit 111 receives the restriction request (S401: YES), it performs the processing of steps S402 and S403 as a function restriction process. That is, control unit 111 changes the hot water temperature set by operating hot water temperature setting buttons 122d, 131c to a predetermined temperature and fixes it at the predetermined temperature, i.e., prohibits setting changes by operating hot water temperature setting buttons 122d, 131c (S402). The predetermined temperature can be, for example, a temperature that is higher or lower by a predetermined value than the previously set hot water temperature. The predetermined temperature can also be a random temperature.

Furthermore, the control unit 111 reduces the hot water outlet flow rate from the hot water outlet pipe 215 of the hot water supply device 10 by narrowing (reducing) the opening amount of the flow rate control valve 218 of the first supply unit 210 of the hot water heater 11 more than usual (S403).

This function restriction process causes the water heater 10 to enter a state where it operates the hot water supply function with its functions restricted.

In addition, as a function restriction process, for example, the bath temperature (which is also the hot water supply temperature when the bath is filled) set by operating the bath temperature setting buttons 122e and 131d may be changed and fixed at the changed temperature. Also, the bath water level set by the bath water level setting buttons (not shown) on the input unit 122 and display input unit 131 may be changed and fixed at the changed water level. Furthermore, by fixing the temperature of the hot water supplied to the heating terminal, the output of the heating terminal may be fixed and may not be changed by operating the input unit 122, display input unit 131, etc.

Next, control unit 111 monitors whether a stop request has been received from server 50 (S404). When the overdue usage fee is paid, a stop request is sent to water heating apparatus 10 by the processing of step S107 in FIG. 5. When control unit 111 receives a stop request (S404: YES), it removes the restrictions imposed by the function restriction processing by the processing of steps S405 and S406.

That is, the control unit 111 releases the fixed hot water temperature (S405) and allows the setting to be changed by operating the hot water temperature setting buttons 122d and 131c. At this time, the hot water temperature may be returned to the temperature set before the restriction. Furthermore, the control unit 111 releases the reduction in the hot water outlet flow rate by returning the opening amount of the flow rate adjustment valve 218 to its original value (S406).

In this way, the water heater 10 stops performing hot water supply operation with limited functionality and enters a state where it can perform normal hot water supply operation.

Figure 9(a) is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the control unit 133 of the kitchen remote control 13 and the control unit 123 of the bathroom remote control 12 of the water heater 10 to execute a function to deal with non-payment of usage fees. This processing is a notification processing to notify that functional restrictions are being imposed due to non-payment of usage fees, and is executed by the function of the notification processing units 123a and 133a.

The following describes the notification process performed by the kitchen remote control 13, but the same applies to the notification process performed by the bathroom remote control 12.

When a restriction request is received from the server 50, the notification process shown in Figure 9(a) is initiated.

The control unit 133 monitors whether a predetermined notification condition has been met (S501). For example, the notification condition may be that the operation button 132 and the operation buttons 131a to 131h displayed on the display input unit 131 have been pressed. Alternatively, the notification condition may be that the hot water supply operation of each function, such as the hot water supply function, has started. If notifications are made at regular time intervals, the notification condition may also be that a certain amount of time has elapsed. There may be one or more notification conditions.

When the notification condition is met, for example, when a button on the kitchen remote control 13 is operated (S501: YES), the control unit 133 causes the display input unit 131, which is the notification unit, to display a notification screen 620 as a notification that functionality is being restricted due to unpaid usage fees (S502). A user who sees the notification screen 620 can recognize that the water heater 10 cannot be used as before due to unpaid usage fees.

Figure 9(b) shows an example of a notification screen 620. The notification screen 620 includes a message 621 informing users that functionality has been restricted due to unpaid usage fees.

After a predetermined time has elapsed, the notification screen 620 will close. Alternatively, if the notification screen 620 includes a confirmation button, the notification screen 620 will close when the confirmation button is pressed.

In addition to or instead of notifying the user via the notification screen 620, the control unit 133 may output a voice message from the speaker 137, which serves as the notification unit, informing the user that functionality has been restricted due to non-payment of usage fees.

If a stop request is received from the server 50 while the notification conditions are being monitored (S503: YES), the control unit 133 terminates the notification process.

In this way, the water heater 10 will issue a notification each time the notification conditions are met that functionality is being restricted due to unpaid usage fees.

<Effects of First Embodiment>
According to the first embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

A restriction request is sent from the server 50 to the water heater 10 for which the usage fee is overdue, and based on the restriction request, the water heater 10 operates to provide hot water with limited functionality. This inconvenience to the user makes them more likely to pay the overdue usage fee. Furthermore, because the hot water operation itself continues, it is unlikely to cause significant inconvenience to the user.

Furthermore, in a water heater 10 for which the usage fee is overdue, the functionality is restricted, and the hot water temperature during hot water supply operation is changed and fixed at the changed temperature. This makes it difficult for users to obtain hot water at the desired temperature, which is inconvenient. This makes it easier for users to pay the overdue usage fee.

Furthermore, in a water heater 10 where the usage fee is overdue, the functionality is restricted, reducing the hot water flow rate during hot water supply operation, making it difficult for the user to obtain hot water at the desired flow rate, which can be inconvenient. This makes it easier for the user to pay the overdue usage fee.

Furthermore, once the overdue usage fee is paid, the water heater 10 will return to a state in which its functions are restricted and it does not perform hot water supply operation, allowing the user to use the water heater 10 as usual.

<Modification 1>
In the above-mentioned embodiment 1, the server 50 sends notification information to the water heating device whose usage fee is overdue to prompt the user to pay the usage fee, and then the server 50 sends a restriction request to the water heating device 10 whose overdue usage fee has not been paid by the due date, requesting the water heating device 10 to operate in a water heating mode with restricted functions.

In contrast, in this modified example 1, a notification specifying a payment due date is sent and a restriction request is sent from the server 50 to the water heater 10 for which the usage fee is overdue, without waiting for the usage fee to be paid by the due date.

Figure 10 is a diagram showing the circuit blocks of each device that makes up the hot water supply system 1 according to Modification Example 1.

As shown in FIG. 10, in this modified example 1, in the kitchen remote control 13 of the water heating apparatus 10, the functions of the alarm processing unit 133a and the alarm mode setting unit 133b are not assigned to the control unit 133. Furthermore, in the bathroom remote control 12 of the water heating apparatus 10, the function of the alarm processing unit 123a is not assigned to the control unit 123. Furthermore, in the server 50, the functions of the alarm information transmission unit 501c and the alarm cancellation information transmission unit 501d are not assigned to the control unit 501.

Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the control unit 501 of the server 50 to execute the function of dealing with non-payment of usage fees according to Modification Example 1. This processing is performed by the functions of the restriction request transmission unit 501a and the stop request transmission unit 501b shown in Figure 10.

In this modified example 1, the processing shown in Figure 11 is executed instead of the processing shown in Figure 5 in the first embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 11, when the control unit 501 acquires the delinquency information (S601: YES), it identifies the water heating apparatus 10 for which the delinquency occurred based on the ID information included in the delinquency information, and sends a restriction request to that water heating apparatus 10 (S603). Furthermore, when the control unit 501 acquires the payment information (S602: YES), it identifies the water heating apparatus 10 for which payment has been completed based on the ID information included in the payment information, and sends a stop request to that water heating apparatus 10 (S604).

In the water heating apparatus 10, as in the first embodiment, the process for restricting functions shown in FIG. 8 and the notification process shown in FIG. 9(a) are executed. As a result, in the case of a water heating apparatus 10 for which the usage fee is unpaid, the user is prevented from using the water heating apparatus 10 as usual, and is notified that functionality has been restricted due to unpaid usage fees.

On the other hand, the water heater 10 does not execute the notification mode setting and cancellation process shown in Figure 6, nor does it execute the notification process shown in Figure 7(a).

The configuration of this modified example 1 can also achieve the same effects as the above-mentioned embodiment 1.

<Embodiment 2>
In the second embodiment, a temperature change command to forcibly change the hot water temperature is sent from server 50 to water heating apparatus 10 for which the usage fee is overdue, and the hot water temperature set by operating input unit 122 (hot water temperature setting button 122d) or display input unit 131 (hot water temperature setting button 131c) is changed. Thereafter, every time the hot water temperature is changed by operating input unit 122 or display input unit 131, a temperature change command is sent from server 50, and the hot water temperature is changed. This essentially results in a state in which setting of the hot water temperature by input to input unit 122 (hot water temperature setting button 122d) or the like is prohibited.

Figure 12 is a diagram showing the circuit blocks of each device that constitutes the hot water supply system 1 according to embodiment 2.

As shown in FIG. 12 , in the second embodiment, in the water heater 11 of the water heating apparatus 10, the control program stored in the memory unit 112 assigns the function of the temperature setting unit 111b to the control unit 111 instead of the function of the function restriction unit 111a in the first embodiment. The temperature setting unit 111b sets the hot water temperature based on button operation input received by the input unit 122 and the display input unit 131. Furthermore, when the hot water temperature is set by input to the input unit 122 and the display input unit 131, the temperature setting unit 111b transmits a temperature setting notification to the server 50. Furthermore, the temperature setting unit 111b changes the hot water temperature set by input to the input unit 122 and the display input unit 131 based on a temperature change command transmitted from the server 50.

Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the control program stored in the memory unit 502 of the server 50 assigns the function of a change command transmission unit 501e to the control unit 501, instead of the functions of the limit request transmission unit 501a and the stop request transmission unit 501b of the first embodiment. The change command transmission unit 501e transmits a temperature change command to a water heating apparatus 10 for which the usage fee is overdue. After transmitting the first temperature change command, the change command transmission unit 501e transmits a temperature change command to the water heating apparatus 10 each time it receives a temperature setting notification from the water heating apparatus 10 for which the usage fee is overdue.

Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the control unit 501 of the server 50 to execute the function of dealing with overdue usage fees. This processing is performed by the functions of the change command transmission unit 501e, the notification information transmission unit 501c, and the notification cancellation information transmission unit 501d shown in Figure 12.

As in the first embodiment above, when the control unit 501 acquires delinquency information in step S701 (S701: YES), it transmits notification information to the water heating apparatus 10 for which the usage fee is overdue (S704). Furthermore, when the control unit 501 determines in step S702 that payment information has been acquired (S702: YES) and further determines in step S705 that the payment is within the deadline (S705: YES), it transmits cancellation information to cancel the notification mode to the water heating apparatus 10 for which payment has been made (S706).

Next, in this embodiment 2, if the control unit 501 determines in step S703 that there is a water heating apparatus 10 for which the payment due date for overdue usage fees has passed (S703: YES), it sends notification mode cancellation information to the water heating apparatus 10 for which the payment due date has passed (S708) and starts the forced temperature change process (S709).

Figure 14(a) is a flowchart showing the forced operation stop process.

The control unit 501 sends a temperature change command to the water heating apparatus 10 whose payment due date has passed (S801). The control unit 501 then monitors whether a temperature setting notification has been received from the water heating apparatus 10 whose payment due date has passed (S802). As described below, when the water heating temperature is set by input to the input unit 122 or display input unit 131 (by operating the water heating temperature setting buttons 122d, 131c), the water heating apparatus 10 sends a temperature setting notification to the server 50.

When the control unit 501 receives a temperature setting notification from a water heating apparatus 10 whose payment due date has passed (S802: YES), it sends a temperature change command to the water heating apparatus 10 (S803). In this way, every time the hot water temperature setting is changed in the water heating apparatus 10 whose payment due date has passed, a temperature change command is sent from the server 50 to the water heating apparatus 10.

Returning to FIG. 13, in step S702, the control unit 501 determines that payment information has been acquired (S702: YES), and if it further determines in step S705 that the payment deadline is not yet reached (S705: NO), it stops the forced temperature change process being performed on the water heating device 10 for which payment has been made (S707).

Figure 14(b) is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the control unit 111 of the water heater 11 of the water heating apparatus 10 to execute the function of dealing with overdue usage fees. This processing is performed by the function of the temperature setting unit 111b in Figure 12.

Referring to FIG. 14(b), the control unit 111 monitors whether a hot water temperature setting has been input using the display unit 121 (hot water temperature setting button 122d) or the like (S901). If a setting has been input (S901: YES), the control unit 111 sets the hot water temperature based on the setting input (S902). Furthermore, the control unit 111 transmits a temperature setting notification to the server 50 (S903).

In addition to monitoring in step S901, the control unit 111 also monitors whether a temperature change command has been received from the server 50 (S904).

If the water heater 10 is not past due for payment of the usage fee, the server 50 will not send a temperature change command. Therefore, the control unit 111 repeats the processing of steps S901 to S903.

On the other hand, if the water heating apparatus 10 exceeds the payment due date for the usage fee, the server 50 first sends a temperature change command, and thereafter, the server 50 promptly sends a temperature change command each time the water heating apparatus 10 sends a temperature setting notification. When the control unit 111 receives the temperature change command (S904: YES), it changes the hot water temperature to the specified temperature (S905).

The temperature to be changed, i.e., the predetermined temperature, may be included in the temperature change command, or may be stored in advance in the memory unit 112 and acquired by the control unit 111 from the memory unit 112. The predetermined temperature may be, for example, a temperature that is higher or lower by a predetermined value than the set hot water supply temperature. The predetermined temperature may also be a random temperature.

In this way, in a water heater 10 whose payment due date has passed, the hot water temperature is changed to a predetermined temperature, and thereafter, the user is effectively prohibited from setting the hot water temperature. Therefore, the water heater 10 enters a state in which hot water operation is performed with the hot water temperature setting restricted.

In addition, the process shown in Figure 14(b) may forcibly change the bath temperature (which is also the hot water temperature when the bath is filled) set by operating the bath temperature setting buttons 122e and 131d in a hot water heating device 10 for which the usage fee is overdue.

In the water heater 10, as in the first embodiment, the notification mode setting and cancellation process of FIG. 6 is executed, and the notification process of FIG. 7(a) is also executed. Meanwhile, the bathroom remote control 12 and the kitchen remote control 13 do not execute the notification process shown in FIG. 9(a). Instead, when the hot water supply temperature is forcibly changed in step S905 of FIG. 14(b), the control unit 111 may instruct the control unit 123 of the bathroom remote control 12 and the control unit 133 of the kitchen remote control 13 to display a notification screen similar to notification screen 620 of FIG. 9(b) on the display unit 121 and the display input unit 131 as a notification that functionality is restricted due to non-payment of usage fees, or to issue the above notification by voice from the speakers 127 and 137.

<Effects of the Second Embodiment>
According to the second embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

When a temperature change command is sent from the server 50 to a water heater 10 for which usage fees are overdue, the hot water temperature during hot water supply operation is changed from the temperature set by input to the input unit 122 or display input unit 131. This makes it difficult for users to obtain hot water at the desired temperature, which is inconvenient for them. This makes it easier for users to pay their overdue usage fees.

Furthermore, in a water heating device 10 where the usage fee is overdue, each time the hot water temperature is set by inputting into the input unit 122 or display input unit 131, a temperature change command is sent from the server 50 and the hot water temperature is changed, so that the setting of the hot water temperature by inputting into the input unit 122, etc. is essentially prohibited. This makes it more likely that the user will feel inconvenienced, and therefore more likely to pay the overdue usage fee.

Furthermore, once the overdue usage fee is paid, the server 50 will stop sending temperature change commands based on the temperature setting notification, and the water heater 10 will return to a state where the hot water temperature can be set by inputting information into the input unit 122 or the display input unit 131. This allows the user to use the water heater 10 as usual.

Note that modifications similar to those in Modification Example 1 may be applied to this second embodiment. In this case, in this second embodiment, the processes of steps S603 and S604 in FIG. 11 are replaced with the processes of steps S709 and S707 in FIG. 13. In the water heating apparatus 10, the processes for setting and canceling the alarm stop mode in FIG. 6 and the alarm process in FIG. 7(a) are no longer executed.

<Other changes>
In the first and second embodiments, if a service stop date later than the payment due date is set in the server 50 and the water heating apparatus 10 fails to pay the service charge before the service stop date, the server 50 may transmit operation prohibition information to the water heating apparatus 10 prohibiting hot water supply operation. In this case, the water heating apparatus 10 may be set to an operation prohibition mode based on the operation prohibition information, and button operations on the kitchen remote control 13 and the bathroom remote control 12 may be disabled, thereby disabling hot water supply operation for all functions, including the hot water supply function, or disabling hot water supply operation for some functions. Once the service charge is paid, the server 50 transmits cancellation information to the water heating apparatus 10 for which payment has been made, disabling the operation prohibition mode, and allowing normal hot water supply operation. In such a configuration, the service stop date may be notified in advance via the notification screen 620 shown in FIG. 9(b). Similarly, in the first modification, the hot water supply operation may be prohibited when the payment due date has passed.

Furthermore, in the above-described first embodiment, a water heating apparatus 10 for which the usage fee is overdue is placed in a state where its functions are restricted, and the hot water temperature during hot water supply operation is changed and fixed at the changed temperature. However, a water heating apparatus 10 for which the usage fee is overdue may also be placed in a state where the hot water temperature is fixed and not changed.

In the above-described first and second embodiments, notification information is sent from the server 50 to the water heating apparatus 10 for which the usage fee is overdue, and a notification urging the user to pay the usage fee is sent to the notification unit (display unit 121, display input unit 131) of the water heating apparatus 10. However, in addition to or instead of the water heating apparatus 10 for which the usage fee is overdue, notification information may also be sent from the server 50 to the mobile terminal device 30 associated with that water heating apparatus 10, and a notification urging the user to pay the usage fee may be sent to the mobile terminal device 30. Furthermore, a fixed terminal device such as a desktop personal computer located in the home H10 may be the destination of the notification information. The notification information may be sent periodically or only once.

Furthermore, in the above-described first embodiment, the water heater 10 is set to the notification mode upon receiving notification information from the server 50, and while the notification mode is set, a notification prompting payment of the usage fee is issued each time a predetermined notification condition is met. However, a notification prompting payment of the usage fee may be issued once or a predetermined number of times upon receiving notification information. In this case, the notification mode setting unit 133b is unnecessary, and the notification processing units 123a and 133a issue notifications upon receiving notification information.

Furthermore, in the above-mentioned first embodiment, the function restriction unit 111a is provided in the water heater 11, the notification processing units 123a and 133a are provided in the bathroom remote control 12 and the kitchen remote control 13, and the notification mode setting unit 133b is provided in the kitchen remote control 13, but the location of these units in the water heating apparatus 10 is not limited to this. For example, the notification processing unit and the notification mode setting unit may be provided in the water heater 11. In this case, the water heater 11 issues a notification instruction to the bathroom remote control 12 and the kitchen remote control 13, and these remote controls 12 and 13 then issue a notification encouraging payment of the usage fee. Furthermore, the notification mode setting unit may be provided in the bathroom remote control 12, and the function restriction unit may be provided in the bathroom remote control 12 or the kitchen remote control 13. Similarly, the location of the temperature setting unit in the water heating apparatus 10 in the above-mentioned second embodiment is not limited to the location in the above-mentioned second embodiment.

Furthermore, in the above-described first and second embodiments, the wireless communication unit 138 is provided in the kitchen remote control 13 that constitutes the water heating apparatus 10, but the wireless communication unit may be provided in the water heater 11 or the bathroom remote control 12, and the water heater 11 or the bathroom remote control 12 may be connected to the router 20. Alternatively, a control unit equipped with a wireless communication unit may be arranged in the water heating apparatus 10 in addition to the water heater 11, the bathroom remote control 12, and the kitchen remote control 13, and this control unit may be connected to the router 20.

Furthermore, the configuration of the water heater 10 is not limited to the configuration shown in the first and second embodiments above, and other configurations are also possible. For example, the water heater 10 may be configured without a heating function, or without a reheating function. The water heater 10 may also be configured without one or two of the heating functions, namely, floor heating, room heating, and bathroom heating. Furthermore, the water heater 10 may be configured with only a hot water supply function. Furthermore, the water heater 10 is not limited to those that use gas fuel, and may be a water heater that uses oil as fuel.

Furthermore, in the above-mentioned first embodiment, the function restriction unit, notification processing unit, notification mode setting unit, restriction request transmission unit, stop request transmission unit, notification information transmission unit, and notification cancellation information transmission unit were realized by software functions based on a control program, but these may also be realized by hardware using logic circuits. The same applies to the temperature setting unit in the above-mentioned second embodiment.

Furthermore, in the above-described first and second embodiments, the water heater 10 is a combustion-type water heater that heats water using combustion gases produced by burning fuel, but the configuration of the water heater 10 is not limited to this. For example, the water heater 10 may be a cogeneration-type water heater that generates electricity using a generator and uses the exhaust heat from the generator to generate hot water.

Furthermore, in the above-described first and second embodiments, the hot water supply system 1 is configured such that the hot water supply apparatus 10 transmits usage information regarding the usage of the hot water supply apparatus 10 to the server 50 via the external communication network 40, and the usage fee for the hot water supply apparatus 10 is calculated based on the usage information, i.e., the usage fee varies depending on the usage of the hot water supply apparatus 10. However, the hot water supply system 1 may also be configured such that the hot water supply apparatus 10 does not transmit usage information to the server 50. In this case, the usage fee may be a fixed fee.

In addition, various modifications of the present invention are possible within the scope of the claims.

1 Hot water supply system 10 Hot water supply device 40 External communication network 50 Server 111a Function restriction unit 111b Temperature setting unit 122 Input unit 131 Display input unit (input unit)
501a Restriction request transmission unit 501b Stop request transmission unit 501c Notification information transmission unit 501d Notification cancellation information transmission unit 501e Change command transmission unit

Claims (7)

A hot water supply system including a hot water supply device that can be used by paying a usage fee, and a server that can communicate with the hot water supply device via an external communication network,
the server includes a restriction request sending unit that sends a restriction request to the hot water heating device for which the usage fee is overdue, to cause the hot water heating device to perform hot water heating operation with its functions restricted;
The hot water supply device is
an input unit that receives an input for setting a hot water temperature during hot water supply operation;
a function restriction unit;
the function restriction unit, upon receiving the restriction request, changes the hot water supply temperature set by input to the input unit and fixes the changed temperature.
A hot water supply system characterized by: A hot water supply system including a hot water supply device that can be used by paying a usage fee, and a server that can communicate with the hot water supply device via an external communication network,
the server includes a restriction request sending unit that sends a restriction request to the hot water heating device for which the usage fee is overdue, to cause the hot water heating device to perform hot water heating operation with its functions restricted;
The water heater includes a function limiting unit,
The function restriction unit reduces the hot water outlet flow rate during hot water supply operation based on the reception of the restriction request.
A hot water supply system characterized by: 3. The hot water supply system according to claim 1,
The server further includes a stop request sending unit that sends a stop request to the water heating apparatus for which the overdue usage fee has been paid, to cause the water heating apparatus to stop the hot water heating operation with the function restricted.
A hot water supply system characterized by: A hot water supply system including a hot water supply device that can be used by paying a usage fee, and a server that can communicate with the hot water supply device via an external communication network,
The hot water supply device is
an input unit that receives an input for setting a hot water temperature during hot water supply operation;
a temperature setting unit that sets the hot water supply temperature based on the input received by the input unit,
the server includes a change command sending unit that sends a temperature change command to change the hot water temperature to the hot water heating device for which the usage fee is overdue;
The temperature setting unit changes the hot water temperature set by the input to the input unit based on the temperature change command.
A hot water supply system characterized by: The hot water supply system according to claim 4,
When the hot water supply temperature is set by inputting to the input unit, the temperature setting unit transmits a temperature setting notification to the server;
the change command transmission unit transmits the temperature change command to the water heating apparatus every time the temperature setting notification is received from the water heating apparatus for which the usage fee is overdue.
A hot water supply system characterized by: The hot water supply system according to claim 5,
the change command transmission unit terminates transmission of the temperature change command based on the temperature setting notification to the hot water heating device for which the overdue usage fee has been paid.
A hot water supply system characterized by: A water heater that can be used by paying a usage fee, and a server that can communicate with the water heater via an external communication network,
the hot water supply device includes an input unit that receives an input for setting a hot water supply temperature during hot water supply operation,
The server includes a change command transmission unit that transmits a temperature change command to the hot water supply device for which the usage fee is overdue, to forcibly change the hot water supply temperature set by input to the input unit.
A server characterized by: