Water-saving device

Abstract

This water-saving device features a flow rate adjustment function that allows for flow rate settings across a wide range due to its simple structure. [Solution] A water-saving device according to one aspect of the present invention is a water-saving device connected to a water supply device and adjusting the discharge flow rate, comprising a water supply unit, a water-saving adjustment unit and a discharge unit, wherein the water-saving adjustment unit comprises a water-passing member having a plurality of water-passing holes and a water-controlling member disposed opposite to the water-passing member, wherein the water-passing member alternately comprises n water-passing regions and n water-stopping regions, wherein the water-passing regions include a first water-passing region and a second water-passing region having a second water-passing hole whose radial opening width changes continuously along the circumferential direction, wherein the water-passing member and the water-controlling member are rotatably movable relative to each other and can be set as at least m types of flow rate setting patterns, and the flow rate discharged from the discharge unit is adjusted according to the setting of the flow rate setting pattern.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a water-saving device.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, from the viewpoints of energy conservation and environmental consideration, a water-saving function has been required for water supply devices. As a conventional technique for obtaining an appropriate amount of water even when a water-saving function is provided in a water supply device, for example, a water-saving device with a flow rate adjustment function disclosed in Patent Document 1 can be cited. In the water-saving device with a flow rate adjustment function of Patent Document 1, a closing wall having a water passage hole and a water-saving plate are provided to face each other, the water-saving plate is rotatable with respect to the closing wall, and the area where the water passage hole of the closing wall and the water passage hole of the water-saving plate overlap is adjusted to set the flow rate of the water-saving device. The shape of the water passage hole of the water-saving plate of the water-saving device with a flow rate adjustment function in Patent Document 1 is an oval shape extending in the circumferential direction.

[0003] Further, as the shape of the water passage hole of the water-saving plate of the water-saving device with a flow rate adjustment function, for example, in the water-saving device of Patent Document 2, the water passage hole is composed of a plurality of holes arranged in the circumferential direction.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the water-saving device with a flow rate adjustment function disclosed in the above Patent Document 1, since the shape of the water passage hole of the water-saving plate is an oval shape extending in the circumferential direction, there is a problem that it is difficult to set a small flow rate or a very small flow rate.

[0006] In the water-saving device disclosed in Patent Document 2 mentioned above, the shape of the water passage holes in the water-saving plate consists of multiple holes arranged in the circumferential direction. This makes it easy to set small flow rates, but it has the problem that it is difficult to set flow rates in the range of large flow rates.

[0007] The objective of the present invention is to provide a water-saving device with a flow rate adjustment function that allows for flow rate setting over a wide range of flow rates through a simple structure. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A water-saving device according to a first aspect of the present invention is a water-saving device connected to a water supply device and adjusting the discharge flow rate, comprising: a water supply unit connected to the water supply device; a water-saving adjustment unit supplied with water from the water supply unit and adjusting the discharge flow rate; and a discharge unit that discharges the flow rate adjusted by the water-saving adjustment unit, wherein the water-saving adjustment unit comprises a water-passing member having a plurality of water-passing holes and a water-controlling member disposed opposite to the water-passing member, wherein the water-passing member alternately comprises n (n is an integer of 2 or more) water-passing regions and n water-stopping regions in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment unit, wherein the water-passing region includes a first water-passing region in which m (m is an integer) first water-passing holes are arranged in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment unit, and a second water-passing region in which at least one second water-passing hole is arranged in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment unit and the water-stopping region is The water control member is provided with an alternating circumferential configuration of n water-hole-closing regions having a radial dimension larger than the region where the first, second, and third water-holes exist, and n water-hole-open regions that do not overlap with the region where the first, second, and third water-holes exist. The water-passing member and the water control member are rotatably movable relative to each other in the rotational direction about the axis of the water-saving adjustment unit, and the relative rotational movement positions of the water-passing member and the water control member can be set as at least m flow rate setting patterns. Each flow rate setting pattern is set as a pattern in which the number of water-hole-closing regions that block the first water-hole differs, and the flow rate discharged from the discharge unit is adjusted according to the setting of the flow rate setting pattern.

[0009] In the water-saving device according to the second aspect of the present invention, in the water-saving device according to the first aspect, the first water passage holes arranged in the first water passage region include a plurality of types of water passage holes having different opening areas, or in the second water passage region, k (k is an integer, k < m) third water passage holes are arranged in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment part.

[0010] In the water-saving device according to the third aspect of the present invention, in the water-saving device according to the first aspect, the circumferential width dimension of the water-saving adjustment part in the water passage hole closing region is a width dimension capable of closing the existing regions of the n first water passage holes arranged in one first water passage region.

[0011] In the water-saving device according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, in the water-saving device according to the first aspect, the water supply part and the discharge part are integrally formed as a water-saving device main body, and either one of the water passage member and the water control member is integrally formed or fixed to the water-saving device main body, and the other of the water passage member and the water control member is rotatably movable in the rotational direction around the axis of the water-saving adjustment part with respect to the one.

Effects of the Invention

[0012] According to the water-saving device of the first aspect of the present invention, flow rate setting over a wide flow rate range is possible with a simple structure. The water-saving adjustment unit has a simple configuration including a water passage member having a plurality of water passage holes and a water control member arranged to face the water passage member. Further, the water passage member and the water control member are relatively rotatable in the rotational direction about the axis of the water-saving adjustment unit, and the relative rotational positions of the water passage member and the water control member can be set as at least m types of flow rate setting patterns. Each flow rate setting pattern is set such that the water passage hole closing region has different numbers of the first water passage holes closed. Depending on the setting of the flow rate setting pattern, the flow rate discharged from the discharge portion is adjusted, enabling flow rate setting over a wide flow rate range. Also, the water passage region includes a first water passage region in which m (m is an integer) first water passage holes are arranged in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment unit, and a second water passage region in which at least one second water passage hole with a continuously changing radial opening width along the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment unit is arranged. Therefore, the configuration of the water passage region is simple, and since the opening patterns of each water passage hole can be set in various ways, flow rate setting over a wide flow rate range is possible. By being able to set the opening patterns of each water passage hole in various ways, each pattern can be continuously set from a small flow rate to a large flow rate, that is, each pattern can be set according to linear characteristics over a wide flow rate range.

[0013] Also, according to the water-saving device of the second aspect, the first water passage holes arranged in the first water passage region include a plurality of types of water passage holes with different opening areas, or in the second water passage region, further k (k is an integer, k < m) third water passage holes are arranged in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment unit. Thus, the configuration of the water passage region is simple, and the opening patterns of each water passage hole can be set in more diverse ways, enabling flow rate setting over a wide flow rate range.

[0014] According to the water-saving device of the third aspect of the present invention, the circumferential width dimension of the water-saving adjustment section of the water passage blockage region is such that it can block the area where the n first water passages arranged in one of the first water passage regions exist. Therefore, the water passage blockage region can block each water passage to an appropriate extent, allowing for diverse opening patterns for each water passage and enabling flow rate settings over a wide flow rate range. Moreover, the configuration of the water passage blockage region and each water passage can be simplified.

[0015] According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the water supply section and the discharge section are integrally molded as the main body of the water-saving device, and either the water-conducting member or the water-controlling member is integrally molded or fixed to the main body of the water-saving device, thereby reducing the number of components and simplifying the structure. Furthermore, because either the water-conducting member or the water-controlling member is integrally molded or fixed to the main body of the water-saving device, the manufacturing method can be selected, and this also improves the degree of design freedom. For example, integral molding has the effect of reducing the number of parts. Also, for example, when mounting and fixing, multiple specifications of water-conducting members and water-controlling members can be prepared for a common main body of the water-saving device, and by selecting and mounting the water-conducting member and water-controlling member that have been prepared in advance as stock according to the use of the water-saving device, it is possible to realize water-saving devices with diverse specifications in a simple structure and an easy manufacturing method. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1] This is a cross-sectional view of the water-saving device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a plan view of the water-conducting member. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a plan view of the water control member. [Figure 4] This is an explanatory diagram of the flow rate setting pattern of the water-saving device of Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] This is a plan view of the water-conducting member of Comparative Example 1. [Figure 6] This shows the measurement results of the flow rate setting characteristics of the water-saving device of Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] This is an explanatory diagram of the flow rate setting pattern of the water-saving device according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 8] It is a graph showing the change characteristics of the water passage area of the water-saving device of Embodiment 2. [Figure 9] It is a cross-sectional view of the water-saving device of Embodiment 3.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] Hereinafter, the water-saving device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the embodiments shown below are examples of water-saving devices for embodying the technical idea of the present invention, and do not specify the present invention thereto, and can be equally applied to other embodiments included in the claims.

[0018] [Embodiment 1] The water-saving device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of the water-saving device of Embodiment 1. The water-saving device 10 is connected to a water supply device (not shown) and adjusts the discharge flow rate. The water-saving device 10 includes a water supply unit 11 connected to the water supply device, a water-saving adjustment unit 13 that is supplied with water from the water supply unit 11 and adjusts the discharge flow rate, and a discharge unit 12 that discharges the flow rate adjusted by the water-saving adjustment unit 13. The water supply unit 11 is provided with, for example, an internal thread 11a as a connecting means for detachably connecting to the water supply device. Further, the discharge unit 12 is provided with, for example, an external thread 12a as a connecting means for connecting to a supply device (not shown) that is supplied with water from the water-saving device.

[0020] The water-saving adjustment unit 13 includes a water passage member 30 having a plurality of water passages, and a water control member 20 disposed opposite to the water passage member 30. In FIG. 1, the water supply unit 11, the discharge unit 12, and the water passage member 30 are integrally formed to constitute the water-saving device body. The water control member 20 is held by the rotation holding unit 15 so as to be rotatable in the rotational direction about the axis of the water-saving adjustment unit 13 with respect to the water passage member 30.

[0021] In this embodiment, it is preferable to have a large diameter in the water-conducting member 30 so that various types of water-conducting holes (arrangement, shape, and number) can be arranged. Accordingly, a configuration is adopted in which the water-conducting member 30 is integrally molded with the water-saving device body. As a method for processing the water-conducting holes in the integrally molded water-conducting member 30, for example, cutting is used. Furthermore, as a result of the integral molding of the water-conducting member 30, the water-saving device of this embodiment has the advantages of reducing the number of parts, omitting manufacturing processes, and improving strength and durability due to integration.

[0022] However, this embodiment is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 1. For example, the water control member 20, the water supply section 11, and the discharge section 12 may be integrally molded to form the main body of the water-saving device, and the water passage member 30 may be held by the rotating holding section 15 so as to be rotatable relative to the water control member 20 in a rotational direction about the axis of the water-saving adjustment section 13. Furthermore, in any of the above configurations, either the water control member 20 or the water passage member 30 may be positioned on the discharge section side.

[0023] Figure 2 is a plan view of the water-conducting member shown in Figure 1. The water-conducting member 30 has n (n is an integer of 2 or more) water-conducting regions 32, 33 and n water-blocking regions 34 arranged alternately in the circumferential direction (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "circumferential direction") with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment section 13. In the example in Figure 2, n=2. A retaining hole 31 for holding the rotating retaining section 15 is provided at the center of the water-conducting member 30.

[0024] The water passage regions 32 and 33 include a first water passage region 32 in which m (m is an integer) first water passage holes are arranged circumferentially with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment unit 13, and a second water passage region 33 in which at least one second water passage hole is arranged in which the radial opening width changes continuously along the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment unit 13. The water-blocking region 34 is a region in which no water passage holes are provided. In the example in Figure 2, m = 8. The first water passage holes arranged in the first water passage region 32 consist of, for example, small-diameter water passage holes 32a and large-diameter water passage holes 32b, and the small-diameter water passage holes 32a and large-diameter water passage holes 32b have different opening areas. Thus, the first water passage holes can include multiple types of water passage holes 32a and 32b with different opening areas. In Figure 2, both the small-diameter water passage holes 32a and large-diameter water passage holes 32b are circular in shape and can be, for example, drilled holes. However, the shape of the first water passage hole in the embodiment is not limited to a circular shape; any shape such as an ellipse or polygon can be adopted as long as it can be separated in the circumferential direction and an opening area can be secured. Although not particularly limited, in the example in Figure 2, the opening area of ​​the large-diameter water passage hole 32b (e.g., diameter 1.2 mm) is set to be larger than that of the small-diameter water passage hole 32a (e.g., diameter 0.9 mm).

[0025] The second water passage region 33 is provided with a second water passage hole 33a whose radial opening width continuously changes along the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment unit 13. The shape of the second water passage hole 33a is designed so that the radial opening width continuously changes along the circumferential direction, as the water-saving adjustment unit 13 is composed of curved surfaces with a continuous geometric shape. Therefore, although the second water passage hole 33a is a single water passage hole, it is not a simple circular shape formed by drilling, like the small-diameter water passage hole 32a and large-diameter water passage hole 32b which are the first water passage holes, but a geometric shape in which the radial opening width and radial opening position are continuously set in the circumferential direction. Therefore, the manner in which the amount of overlap with the water passage hole closure region of the water control member 20 described later can be freely set according to the specifications of the geometric shape in which the radial opening characteristics are set along the circumferential direction, making it possible to set the flow rate over a wide flow rate range with a simple structure.

[0026] In the second water passage region 33, k (k is an integer, k < m) third water holes 33b may be further arranged in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment part 13. In the example of FIG. 2, k = 2. Also, the third water hole 33b can be set to have the same opening area (circular shape with the same diameter) as the small-diameter water hole 32a as the first water hole. The opening area of the third water hole 33b is not limited to the example of FIG. 2, and may be, for example, a different opening area from the small-diameter water hole 32a and the large-diameter water hole 32b as the first water hole.

[0027] In the water passage member 30 illustrated in FIG. 2, since n = 2, the first water passage region 32 and the second water passage region 33 are arranged to face each other with a water stop region 34 sandwiched therebetween. Here, in order to realize a wide flow rate characteristic, it is desirable to set the radial angular range α of the first water passage region 32 and the second water passage region 33 as shown in the following formula 1. 0° < α ≦ 180° / n (Formula 1)

[0028] When n = 2, the angular range of α is 90° or less. By setting the first water passage region 32 and the second water passage region 33 as in Formula 1, as the radial angular range β of the water stop region 34, at least 180° / n (90° in the case of FIG. 2) can be ensured.

[0029] Figure 3 is a plan view of the water control member shown in Figure 1. The water control member 20 has n water passage blockage regions 25 having a radial dimension larger than the region where the first water passage holes 32a, 32b, the second water passage hole 33a, and the third water passage hole 33b are located, and n water passage open regions 27 having a radial dimension that does not overlap with the region where the first water passage holes 32a, 32b, the second water passage hole 33a, and the third water passage hole 33b are located, which are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction. In the example of Figure 3, the water control member 20 has a butterfly wing shape with the central part 21 at its center, resembling butterfly wings spreading in opposite directions, and has two water passage blockage regions 25, while the portion where there are no water passage blockage regions 25 functions as a water passage open region 27. In the example of Figure 3, n=2. The central part 21 of the water control member 20 is provided with a retaining hole 22 into which the rotating retaining part 15 is inserted. The radial angular range of the water passage hole blocking region 25 is set in the same way as the range of α in Equation 1. That is, in the case of Figure 3, the radial angular range of the water passage hole blocking region 25 corresponds to n=2 in Figure 2, so it is designed to be greater than 0° and less than or equal to 90°.

[0030] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram of the flow rate setting patterns of the water-saving device of Embodiment 1. The water-conducting member 30 and the water-controlling member 20 are rotatably movable relative to each other in the rotational direction about the axis of the water-saving adjustment unit 13, and the relative rotational movement positions of the water-conducting member 30 and the water-controlling member 20 can be set as at least m types of flow rate setting patterns. Each flow rate setting pattern is set as a pattern in which the number of water-conducting hole blocking regions 25 that block the first water-conducting hole 32a differs, and the flow rate discharged from the discharge unit is adjusted according to the setting of the flow rate setting pattern. In the example in Figure 4, m=8, and eight types of patterns are set.

[0031] In this embodiment, we will describe an example in which m=8 patterns, from pattern a1 to pattern a8, can be set as shown in Figure 4. Pattern a1 has one of the small-diameter first water passage holes 32a open, and the discharge flow rate is set to the minimum. Next, pattern a2 has two of the small-diameter first water passage holes 32a open, and since the opening area of ​​the water passage holes is larger than in pattern a1, the discharge flow rate is set to be higher than in pattern a1. Similarly, patterns a3 to a7 have three to seven of the small-diameter first water passage holes 32a open, and the discharge flow rate is set to increase sequentially from pattern a3 to pattern a7. Pattern a8 has the large-diameter first water passage hole 32b and all seven small-diameter first water passage holes 32a open, and the discharge flow rate is set to the maximum.

[0032] Furthermore, the opening conditions for each pattern of one second water passage hole 33a and k (k=2 in Figure 4) third water passage holes 33b are also shown in Figure 4. Specifically, in patterns a1 and a2, one of the third water passage holes 33b is open. In pattern a3, both of the third water passage holes 33b are open. In pattern a4, both of the third water passage holes 33b and the second water passage holes begin to open, with the ends of the second water passage holes slightly open. Similarly, as we progress from pattern a5 to pattern a7, in addition to the opening of both of the third water passage holes 33b, the degree of opening of the second water passage holes increases sequentially. Finally, in pattern a8, in addition to the opening of both of the third water passage holes 33b, the entire second water passage hole is open, resulting in the maximum opening area.

[0033] In the water-saving device of this embodiment, the flow rate setting pattern can be set by sequentially rotating the water control member 20 in the same direction each time the pattern progresses from pattern a1 to pattern a8. Therefore, unlike the conventional technology, it is not necessary to rotate the water control member 20 clockwise or counterclockwise, or to move back and forth multiple times when progressing through the patterns, enabling a flow rate setting pattern with a simple procedure. This improves the design flexibility of the flow rate setting pattern and makes it easier to set the shape and arrangement of the water passage holes according to the flow rate setting pattern.

[0034] In this embodiment, the flow rate setting pattern is also designed from the following perspective. In a large, undivided area, even a slight misalignment of the water control member can result in a large difference in flow rate. Therefore, small-diameter water passages 32a (0.9 mm in diameter) are regularly arranged in a position symmetrical to the second water passage hole 33a. The water passages serve not only to increase the area of ​​the water passage holes, but also as a guide when positioning the end of the water passage hole blocking region 25 of the water control member between adjacent water passages, i.e., they can serve as a scale for setting the flow rate.

[0035] In this embodiment, the flow rate setting pattern is also designed from the following perspective. The second water passage hole 33a, which has an undivided geometric shape, is designed so that a large opening area can be set from pattern a6 onwards. Because the radial opening width is large, the opening area is set by utilizing a large range from the inner diameter to the outer diameter of the water passage hole closure region 25. On the other hand, in patterns a4 and a5, the design results in a small water passage hole area. Therefore, by setting the geometric shape of the second water passage hole 33a to be closer to the inner diameter side of the water passage hole closure region 25, that is, the inner diameter side where the operating range of the water passage hole closure region 25 becomes smaller, a smooth and nearly linear area increase transition characteristic is achieved.

[0036] In the water-saving device of this embodiment, cutting is used as a method for processing the water passage holes in the integrally molded water passage member 30. For example, in the case of drilled holes, a decrease in flow rate is expected compared to pressed holes, so the flow rate setting pattern is designed taking into consideration this decrease in flow rate according to the proportion of the discharge flow rate flowing through the drilled holes. The first water passage holes 32a, 32b and k small-diameter water passage holes 33b are drilled holes, and the geometrically shaped second water passage hole 33a is a pressed hole.

[0037] Figure 5 is a plan view of the water-conducting member of Comparative Example 1 of Embodiment 1. The water-conducting member 50 of Comparative Example 1 is provided with two water-conducting regions and two water-blocking regions alternately. The water-conducting member 50 has four large-diameter water-conducting holes 52a along the circumferential direction. In addition, two small-diameter water-conducting portions 52b are provided at the ends of the large-diameter water-conducting holes 52a, spaced radially apart and at the same angular position in the circumferential direction. Note that the diameter of the water-conducting member of Comparative Example 1, which corresponds to the prior art, is smaller than that of the water-conducting member 30 of Embodiment 1.

[0038] Figure 5 is a plan view of the water-conducting member of Comparative Example 1 of Embodiment 1. Comparative Example 1 corresponds to the prior art Patent Document 2, and the water-conducting member 50 is provided with two water-conducting regions and two water-blocking regions alternately. The water-conducting member 50 has four large-diameter water-conducting holes 52a provided along the circumferential direction. In addition, two small-diameter water-conducting portions 52b are provided at the ends of the large-diameter water-conducting holes 52a, spaced radially apart, and at the same angular position in the circumferential direction.

[0039] The opening patterns (patterns a1' to a9') of the water passage member 50 in Figure 5, which is Comparative Example 1, will be explained. The water passage member 50 of the water-saving device in the comparative example has a structure that allows for nine different flow rate setting patterns, patterns a1' to a9', by combining three types of large-diameter water passage holes 52a (completely closed, half-open, and fully open) with two types of small-diameter water passage sections 52b (fully open and completely closed).

[0040] In the water-saving device of Embodiment 1, the flow rate setting pattern can be set by sequentially rotating the water control member 20 in the same direction each time the pattern progresses from pattern a1 to pattern a8. However, in Comparative Example 1, which corresponds to the prior art, the water control member 20 needs to be rotated clockwise, counterclockwise, and moved back and forth many times when progressing through the patterns.

[0041] Figure 6 shows the measurement results of the flow rate setting characteristics of the water-saving device of Embodiment 1. This is a comparison of the water-saving device of this embodiment with the water-saving device of the comparative example (Figure 5). Figure 6A shows the water-through hole area [mm²] of the water-through hole. 2Figure 6B shows the comparison of the transition characteristics of the discharge flow rate [L / min] when the water supply equipment pressure is 0.08 MPa, and Figure 6C shows the comparison of the discharge flow rate [L / min] when the water supply equipment pressure is 0.30 MPa.

[0042] As shown in the comparison results of Figures 6A, 6B, and 6C, the water-saving device of this embodiment has a wider flow rate setting range for both the minimum and maximum set flow rates compared to Comparative Example 1 (similar to Figure 5, Patent Document 2). Furthermore, the transition of the discharge flow rate corresponding to the flow rate setting for each flow rate setting pattern is smoother, and it is shown that each flow rate setting pattern can be set continuously from small to large flow rates, that is, each pattern can be set according to linear characteristics over a wide flow rate range. In contrast, in Comparative Example 1, which corresponds to the prior art, the flow rate transition characteristics are jagged and do not have linear characteristics. Therefore, with the water-saving device of this embodiment, the configuration of the water passage area is simple and various opening patterns for each water passage hole can be set, making it possible to set flow rates over a wide flow rate range. The ability to set various opening patterns for each water passage hole makes it possible to set each pattern continuously from small to large flow rates, that is, each pattern can be set according to linear characteristics over a wide flow rate range.

[0043] [Second Embodiment] A water-saving device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 7 and 8. Components similar to those in Figures 1 to 6 will be given the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0044] Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram of the flow rate setting pattern of the water-saving device of Embodiment 2. Compared with the flow rate setting pattern of the water-saving device of Embodiment 1, the direction in which the water passage hole blocking region 25 of the water control member 20 rotates is the opposite direction in the radial direction (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "reverse mode"). In other words, the structure of the water-saving device of this embodiment is the same as that of Embodiment 1, but the flow rate setting pattern is set by reversing only the direction in which the water passage hole blocking region 25 of the water control member 20 rotates. The flow rate setting patterns of this embodiment are the seven types of patterns b1 to b7 shown in Figure 7.

[0045] In pattern b1, one large-diameter water passage hole 32b is opened. In pattern b2, in addition to one large-diameter water passage hole 32b, one of the seven small-diameter water passage holes 32a (m=7 in Figure 7) is opened. Similarly, in patterns b3 to b7, two to six of the seven small-diameter water passage holes 32a are opened.

[0046] Furthermore, the opening conditions for each pattern of one second water passage hole 33a and k (k=2 in Figure 7) third water passage holes 33b are also shown in Figure 7. Specifically, in pattern b1, the opening of one second water passage hole 33a begins, the end of the second water passage hole is slightly open, and the opening area is set to the minimum (discharge flow rate is minimum). Similarly, in patterns b2 to b4, the opening area of ​​one second water passage hole 33a increases in order. In pattern b5, the entire second water passage hole 33a is open. In pattern b6, in addition to the entire second water passage hole 33a being open, one of the two third water passage holes is also open. In pattern b7, in addition to the entire second water passage hole 33a being open, both of the two third water passage holes are also open, and the opening area is set to the maximum (discharge flow rate is maximum).

[0047] Figure 8 is a graph showing the transition characteristics of the water passage area of ​​the water-saving device of Embodiment 2. In Figure 8, the transition characteristics of the water passage opening area of ​​the water-saving device of Embodiment 2 are shown in comparison with the water-saving device of Embodiment 1. Figure 8 shows that, like Embodiment 1, the water-saving device of this embodiment can smoothly set the transition of the water passage opening area in accordance with each flow rate setting pattern, and that each flow rate setting pattern can be set continuously from small flow rates to large flow rates, that is, each pattern can be set according to a linear characteristic over a wide flow rate range. Here, in both this embodiment and Embodiment 1, it is possible to smoothly set the transition of the water passage opening area in accordance with each flow rate setting pattern, but the transition characteristics differ between the two. That is, the water-saving device of Embodiment 2 has a transition characteristic that is slightly convex upwards. In contrast, the water-saving device of Embodiment 1 has a transition characteristic that is slightly convex downwards.

[0048] Depending on the water-saving equipment to which the water-saving device of this embodiment is installed, the pressure characteristics may change depending on the water supply amount. For this reason, in addition to being able to smoothly set the transition of the water passage opening area in accordance with each flow rate setting pattern, the transition characteristics can be selected without changing the structure of the water-saving device. That is, by simply setting the flow rate setting pattern with only the direction of rotational movement of the water passage closing region 25 of the water control member 20 reversed, the transition characteristics of the water passage opening area for each flow rate setting pattern can be selected without changing the structure of the water-saving device, thus expanding the range of application for the target water-saving equipment. Furthermore, it is possible to select the transition characteristics of the water passage opening area for each flow rate setting pattern in order to reduce the influence of pressure fluctuations according to the water-saving setting flow rate, with a simple configuration.

[0049] In the water-saving device of Embodiment 1, flow rate adjustment is possible simply by moving the water control member sequentially in the same direction, in order to avoid complicating the setting of the flow rate setting pattern. Similarly, in this embodiment, the water flow area of ​​the flow rate setting pattern can be set by rotating the water control member in the opposite direction to that of Embodiment 1. The water pressure of the local water supply differs for each facility using the water-saving device. Furthermore, the water pressure varies greatly depending on whether it is a lower floor or a higher floor. According to the flow rate setting pattern of Embodiment 1, the rate of increase in area is large from pattern a5 onwards, but it is conceivable that some facilities may want to further reduce the discharge flow rate from pattern a5 onwards. In such cases, the flow rate setting pattern in this embodiment, which rotates the water control member 20 in the opposite direction, becomes effective. For example, the interval between patterns a5 and a6 in Embodiment 1 can be complemented by pattern b2 in this embodiment, the interval between patterns a6 and a7 in Embodiment 1 can be complemented by pattern b3 in this embodiment, and the interval between patterns a7 and a8 in Embodiment 1 can be complemented by patterns b5, b6, and b7 in this embodiment. Thus, in this embodiment, by changing the structure of the water-saving device and setting the operating mode to a hidden mode, it is possible to set a larger number of flow rate setting patterns. As a result, fine-tuned flow rate setting is possible over a wide flow rate range with a simple structure.

[0050] [Third Embodiment] A water-saving device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 9. The same reference numerals are used for components similar to those in Figures 1 to 8, and their descriptions are omitted. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the water-saving device of Embodiment 3. In the water-saving device of Embodiment 1 (Figure 1), the water supply section 11, the discharge section 12, and the water-conducting member 30 were integrally molded to form the main body of the water-saving device. In contrast, in this embodiment, the water supply section 11 and the discharge section 12 are integrally molded to form the main body of the water-saving device, and the water-conducting member 30A, which is made of a separate component in the form of a water-saving plate, is attached to this main body of the water-saving device. This is the difference between this embodiment and the water-saving device of Embodiment 1.

[0051] In Figure 9, the water supply section 11 and the discharge section 12 are integrally molded to form the main body of the water-saving device, and a water-conducting member 30A, which is made as a separate part in the form of a water-saving plate, is attached to this main body of the water-saving device. The water control member 20A is held by the rotating holding section 15 so as to be able to rotate freely relative to the water-conducting member 30A in the rotational direction about the axis of the water-saving adjustment section 13.

[0052] However, this embodiment is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 9. For example, a water control member 20A, which is a separate component in the form of a water control plate, may be attached to the main body of the water-saving device, and the water-conducting member 30A may be held by the rotating holding part 15 so that it can rotate freely in the rotational direction about the axis of the water-saving adjustment part 13 relative to the water control member 20A. Furthermore, in any of the above configurations, either the water control member 20A or the water-conducting member 30A may be positioned on the discharge side.

[0053] In the water-saving device of this embodiment, in Embodiment 1, the water supply section 11 and the discharge section 12 were integrally molded as the water-saving device body, and furthermore, either the water-passing member 30 or the water-controlling member 20 was integrally molded with the water-saving device body. In addition to this structure, in this embodiment, as a different manufacturing method from Embodiment 1, either the water-passing member 30A or the water-controlling member 20A is made as a separate part in the form of a water-saving plate, and this separate part can be attached to the water-saving device body by an attachment method such as press-fitting. This makes it possible to select a manufacturing method in addition to the integral molding method in Embodiment 1, and this also improves the degree of design freedom. Furthermore, in this embodiment, multiple specifications of water-passing members and water-controlling members are prepared for a common water-saving device body, and by selecting and attaching the water-passing member 30A and water-controlling member 20A that have been prepared in advance as stock according to the specifications of the water-saving device, it is possible to realize water-saving devices with diverse specifications in a simple structure and an easy manufacturing method.

[0054] Although water-saving devices have been described above in the embodiments of the present invention, the above embodiments are merely examples of water-saving devices that embody the technical concept of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. It can be equally applied to other embodiments, such as modifications of each embodiment or combinations of each embodiment.

[0055] The specific shapes, dimensions, angles, etc., of the water-saving devices described in each embodiment are illustrative examples and do not limit the embodiments. For example, the shape of the water passage holes is not limited to circles; any shape, arrangement, and number of water passage holes can be adopted as long as the opening pattern of the water passage holes can be set.

[0056] In the water-saving devices described in each embodiment, an example was given where n=2, m=8, and k=2. However, this is merely an example of a specific embodiment, and the quantity, shape, and arrangement of each part are not limited to those shown in the drawings. For example, they can be arbitrarily set under the conditions n≧2, m≧1, and k≧1. In Embodiment 1, m>k is used, but this embodiment is not limited to this, and m and k can be any integers.

[0057] The drawings of the water-saving devices described in each embodiment are illustrative and do not limit this embodiment to the form shown in the drawings. For example, the shape, structure, and arrangement of each water passage hole are arbitrary as long as the flow rate setting pattern can be realized. Similarly, the shape and structure of the water control member are also arbitrary as long as the flow rate setting pattern can be realized. Furthermore, the type and characteristics of the flow rate setting pattern are not limited to the drawings and can be arbitrarily set by designing the specifications of the water-saving device of this embodiment. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0058] 10 Water saving device 11 Water supply section 12 Discharge part 13 Water saving adjustment section 15 Rotating holding part 20 Water control components 20A water control component 21 Central part 22 Retaining hole 25 Water hole blockage area 27 Water hole open area 30 Water-conducting member 30A Water-conducting component 31 Retaining hole 32 1st water flow area 33 2nd water flow area 32a Small diameter water hole 32b Large diameter water passage 33a 2nd water hole 33b 3rd water hole 34 Water stop area 50 Water-conducting member (Comparative Example 1) 52 Water flow area (Comparative Example 1) 52a Large-diameter water passage hole (Comparative Example 1) 52b Small diameter water passage hole (Comparative Example 1) 54. Water-stopping area (Comparative Example 1)

Claims

1. A water-saving device connected to a water supply system that adjusts the discharge flow rate, A water supply unit connected to the aforementioned water supply device, A water-saving adjustment unit that receives water from the aforementioned water supply unit and adjusts the flow rate of the discharged water, A discharge unit that discharges the flow rate adjusted by the water-saving adjustment unit, Equipped with, The water-saving adjustment unit comprises a water-passing member having a plurality of water-passing holes and a water-controlling member positioned opposite the water-passing member. The water-conducting member is provided with n water-conducting regions and n water-blocking regions alternately arranged in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment section, where n (where n is an integer of 2 or more) are arranged. The water passage area is, A first water passage region in which m (where m is an integer) first water passage holes are arranged circumferentially with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment section, A second water passage region is provided in which at least one second water passage hole is arranged such that the radial opening width changes continuously along the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment section, Includes, The water-blocking region is the region where the water passage holes are not provided. The aforementioned water control member is n water passage blockage regions having a radial dimension larger than the region in which the first water passage, the second water passage, and the third water passage exist, n water passage opening regions that do not overlap with the regions where the first water passage, the second water passage, and the third water passage exist, They are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction, The water-conducting member and the water-controlling member are rotatable relative to each other in a rotational direction about the axis of the water-saving adjustment section, and the relative rotational positions of the water-conducting member and the water-controlling member can be set to at least m types of flow rate setting patterns. Each of the flow rate setting patterns is set as a pattern in which the number of water passage hole blocking regions that block the first water passage hole differs. A water-saving device characterized in that the flow rate discharged from the discharge unit is adjusted according to the setting of the flow rate setting pattern.

2. The first water passage holes arranged in the first water passage region include multiple types of water passage holes with different opening areas, or The water-saving device according to claim 1, characterized in that k (where k is an integer, k < m) third water passage holes are further arranged in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment section in the second water passage area.

3. The water-saving device according to claim 1, characterized in that the circumferential width dimension of the water passage hole blocking region with respect to the axis of the water-saving adjustment portion is a width dimension that can block the area where n first water passage holes arranged in one first water passage region exist.

4. The water supply section and the discharge section are integrally molded as the main body of the water-saving device. Either the water-conducting member or the water-controlling member is integrally molded or fixed to the water-saving device body. The water-saving device according to claim 1, characterized in that the other of the water-conducting member and the water-controlling member is rotatable relative to the other in a rotational direction about the axis of the water-saving adjustment section.

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