Bathroom system

Abstract

The present invention provides a bathroom system that can improve the comfort of bathers when performing microbubble supply operation. The bathroom system has a first circulating water path, a water injection path, a heating device, a storage tank, a microbubble discharge nozzle, and a control device. The control device is configured to be able to perform hot water supply operation and microbubble supply operation. In the hot water supply operation, in a state where there is no water remaining in the bathtub, water in an amount of the hot water supply volume heated to the hot water supply set temperature by the heating device is supplied to the bathtub via the water injection path, the first circulating water path, and the storage tank; in the microbubble supply operation, the water in the bathtub is supplied to the storage tank provided on the first circulating water path, and the gas-dissolved pressurized water generated in the storage tank is discharged into the bathtub via the microbubble discharge nozzle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to a bathroom system. Background Art

[0002] In Patent Document 1, a bathroom system is disclosed, which includes: a circulating water path for circulating the water in the bathtub; a water injection path with one end connected to a water supply source and the other end connected to the circulating water path; a heating device provided on the water injection path; a storage tank provided on the circulating water path; a microbubble discharge nozzle provided on the circulating water path; and a control device. The control device is configured to be able to execute a microbubble supply operation, that is, supply the water in the bathtub to the storage tank provided on the circulating water path, dissolve the gas in the storage tank in the supplied water to generate gas-dissolved pressurized water, and discharge the generated gas-dissolved pressurized water to the bathtub through the microbubble discharge nozzle.

[0003] [Prior Art Documents]

[0004] [Patent Documents]

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2008-164233 Summary of the Invention

[0006] [Technical Problems to be Solved by the Invention]

[0007] For the bathroom system of Patent Document 1, a hot water supply operation can be performed, that is, in a state where there is no water left in the bathtub, supply the amount of hot water supply water supplied from the water supply source and heated by the heating device to the hot water supply set temperature to the bathtub without passing through the storage tank. In this case, during the hot water supply operation, the high-temperature water is not stored in the storage tank. Therefore, at the start time of the microbubble supply operation, sometimes the temperature of the water in the storage tank is lower than the temperature of the water in the bathtub. If the microbubble supply operation is performed in such a situation, then immediately after the start of the microbubble supply operation, the relatively low-temperature water (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "low-temperature water") stored in the storage tank will be discharged into the bathtub. If this low-temperature water directly impacts the bather, the bather may feel uncomfortable.

[0008] The present invention provides a technology that can improve the comfort of bathers when performing a microbubble supply operation.

[0009] [Technical Solutions for Solving the Technical Problems]

[0010] The bathroom system disclosed in this specification has a first circulating water path, a water injection path, a heating device, a storage tank, a microbubble discharge nozzle, and a control device. Among them, the first circulating water path circulates the water in the bathtub; one end of the water injection path is connected to a water supply source, and the other end is connected to the first circulating water path; the heating device is arranged on the water injection path; the storage tank is arranged on the first circulating water path; the microbubble discharge nozzle is arranged on the first circulating water path. The control device is configured to be able to execute a hot water supply operation and a microbubble supply operation. In the hot water supply operation, in a state where there is no water remaining in the bathtub, the amount of hot water supply water that is supplied from the water supply source and heated to the hot water supply set temperature by the heating device is supplied to the bathtub via the water injection path, the first circulating water path, and the storage tank; in the microbubble supply operation, the water in the bathtub is supplied to the storage tank arranged on the first circulating water path, the gas in the storage tank is dissolved in the supplied water in the storage tank to generate gas-dissolved pressurized water, and the generated gas-dissolved pressurized water is discharged into the bathtub via the microbubble discharge nozzle.

[0011] According to the above structure, in the hot water supply operation, the water heated to the hot water supply set temperature by the heating device is supplied to the bathtub via the first circulating water path and the storage tank. Therefore, at the time point when the hot water supply operation ends, the water heated to the hot water supply set temperature is stored in the first circulating water path and the storage tank. In this case, after that, at the time point when the microbubble supply operation is executed, the possibility of raising the temperature of the water in the first circulating water path and the temperature of the water in the storage tank to a relatively high temperature can be increased. Therefore, immediately after the microbubble supply operation starts, even if the water supplied to the bathtub directly impacts the bather, the situation where the bather may feel discomfort can be suppressed, thereby improving the comfort of the bather.

[0012] The bathroom system may also have a first row of outlets, a second row of outlets, a suction inlet, and a second circulating water path. Among them, the first row of outlets is provided on the wall of the bathtub, and in the amount of water discharged from the first row of outlets, the amount of water in the vertical component perpendicular to the wall where the first row of outlets is provided is more than the amount of water in the parallel component parallel to the wall where the first row of outlets is provided; the second row of outlets is provided on the wall of the bathtub, and in the amount of water discharged from the second row of outlets, the amount of water in the parallel component parallel to the wall where the second row of outlets is provided is more than the amount of water in the vertical component perpendicular to the wall where the second row of outlets is provided; the suction inlet sucks the water in the bathtub; the second circulating water path connects the suction inlet and the second row of outlets. A first circulating water path may connect the suction inlet and the first row of outlets. A part of the first circulating water path and a part of the second circulating water path may be shared. The control device may be configured to, during the microbubble supply operation, suck the water in the bathtub from the suction inlet and discharge the water passing through the first circulating water path, the storage tank, and the microbubble discharge nozzle from the first row of outlets into the bathtub. The control device may also be configured to be able to perform a drainage operation, that is, suck the water in the bathtub from the suction inlet and discharge the water in the second circulating water path from the second row of outlets into the bathtub. The control device may be configured to, before the determination time elapses since the end of the hot water supply operation, in the case of obtaining an instruction for performing the microbubble supply operation, that is, an operation execution instruction, perform the microbubble supply operation without performing the drainage operation, and after the determination time elapses since the end of the hot water supply operation, in the case of obtaining the operation execution instruction, perform the drainage operation and then perform the microbubble supply operation.

[0013] If a long time has passed after the execution of the hot water supply operation, the temperature of the water in the first circulation water path may sometimes become lower than the temperature of the water in the bathtub. In such a situation, if the fine bubble supply operation is executed, the low-temperature water in the first circulation water path is discharged from the first discharge port into the bathtub, and thus the low-temperature water may directly impact the bather. According to the above structure, after a determination time has passed since the execution of the hot water supply operation, when the control device obtains an operation execution instruction, it executes a drainage operation and then executes the fine bubble supply operation. During the drainage operation, most of the low-temperature water is discharged in a direction parallel to the wall portion provided with the second discharge port, and thus the low-temperature water is not likely to directly impact the bather. Moreover, during the drainage operation, the low-temperature water in the second circulation water path is replaced by the bathtub water, and thus the water in the water path shared by the first circulation water path and the second circulation water path is replaced by the bathtub water. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the situation where the low-temperature water is discharged into the bathtub through the first discharge port immediately after the start of the fine bubble supply operation. In addition, before the determination time has passed since the execution of the hot water supply operation, when the control device obtains an operation execution instruction, it executes the fine bubble supply operation without executing the drainage operation. When the determination time has not passed since the execution of the hot water supply operation, the temperature of the water in the first circulation water path is maintained at a relatively high temperature. Therefore, when the fine bubble supply operation is executed without executing the drainage operation, even if the water in the first circulation water path directly impacts the bather, the bather will not feel discomfort. In this case, compared with the case of executing the drainage operation, the time from obtaining the operation execution instruction to starting the fine bubble supply operation can be shortened. Therefore, the comfort of the bather can be improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 FIG. is a diagram showing the structure of the bathroom system according to the present embodiment (water supply state).

[0015] Figure 2 FIG. is a diagram showing the structure of the bathroom system according to the present embodiment (air introduction state).

[0016] Figure 3 FIG. is a diagram showing the structure of the bathroom system according to the present embodiment (hot water supply state).

[0017] Figure 4 FIG. is a diagram showing the structure of the bathroom system according to the present embodiment (foot bath state).

[0018] Figure 5 FIG. is a diagram showing the structure of the bathroom system according to the present embodiment (reheating state, drainage state).

[0019] FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically showing the flow of water in the circulation connector in the water supply state and the air introduction state.

[0020] FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing the flow of water in the circulation connection member in a hot water supply state, a foot bath state, a reheating state, and a drainage state.

[0021] Figure 8 is a flowchart of the microbubble supply operation process according to the present embodiment.

[0022] [Description of Reference Numerals]

[0023] 2: Bathroom system; 10: Heat source unit; 12: Second heat source machine; 20: Hot water injection path; 22: First return water path; 23: Second return water path; 24: First water supply path; 26: Hot water injection valve; 30: Circulation pump; 32: Water flow switch; 50: Microbubble generation unit; 52: Storage tank; 52a: Low water level electrode; 52b: High water level electrode; 60: Third return water path; 62: Fourth return water path; 64: Jet water path; 66: Connecting water path; 68: Second water supply path; 70: Third water supply path; 74: Water supply path; 80: First switching valve; 82: Second switching valve; 84: Check valve; 86: Water supply control valve; 88: Pressure pump; 100: Air introduction path; 102: Air control valve; 130: Bathtub; 130a: Wall portion; 132: Circulation connection member; 132a: Front surface; 132b: Lower surface; 134a: First discharge port; 134b: First suction port; 134c: Second suction port; 134d: Second discharge port; 136: Upper water path; 136a: First discharge path; 136b: First suction path; 138: Lower water path; 138a: Second discharge path; 138b: Second suction path; 140a to 140d: Check portions; 142: Microbubble discharge nozzle; 150: Control device; 152: Memory; 200: Water supply source; 202: First heat source machine; 204: Water supply path; 206: Hot water outlet path; 250: Hot water outlet portion. Detailed Embodiments

[0024] (Embodiment)

[0025] (Structure of Bathroom System 2)

[0026] Refer to Figures 1 to 8 to describe the bathroom system 2. The bathroom system 2 includes a heat source unit 10, a microbubble generation unit 50, a bathtub 130, and a control device 150. The heat source unit 10 is connected to a water supply source 200, a hot water outlet portion 250, and the microbubble generation unit 50. The microbubble generation unit 50 is connected to the heat source unit 10 and the bathtub 130. In addition, hereinafter, the case where water flows in the direction of the arrow shown Figure 1 will be described as an example.

[0027] (Structure of Heat Source Unit 10)

[0028] The heat source unit 10 is a unit for heating the water supplied from the water supply source 200 and supplying the heated water to the bathtub 130. The heat source unit 10 includes a first heat source machine 202, a second heat source machine 12, a water supply path 204, a hot water outlet path 206, a hot water injection path 20, a first return water path 22, a second return water path 23, and a first water supply path 24.

[0029] The upstream end of the water supply path 204 is connected to a water supply source 200 such as a city water pipe, and the downstream end of the water supply path 204 is connected to the first heat source machine 202. The upstream end of the hot water outlet path 206 is connected to the first heat source machine 202, and the downstream end of the hot water outlet path 206 is connected to a hot water outlet part 250 (such as a faucet). The first heat source machine 202 is a gas heat source machine that heats the water passing through the first heat source machine 202. The first heat source machine 202 heats the water flowing in from the water supply path 204 and sends the heated water to the hot water outlet path 206.

[0030] The upstream end of the hot water injection path 20 is connected to the hot water outlet path 206, and the downstream end of the hot water outlet path 206 is connected to the connection part of the first return water path 22 and the second return water path 23. A hot water injection valve 26 is provided on the hot water injection path 20. The hot water injection valve 26 opens and closes the hot water injection path 20.

[0031] One end of the first return water path 22 is connected to the microbubble generating unit 50 (specifically, the third return water path 60), and the other end of the first return water path 22 is connected to the second return water path 23 and the hot water injection path 20. The upstream end of the second return water path 23 is connected to the first return water path 22 and the hot water injection path 20, and the downstream end of the second return water path 23 is connected to the second heat source machine 12. A circulation pump 30 and a water flow switch 32 are provided on the second return water path 23. The circulation pump 30 is provided at a position upstream of the water flow switch 32 and sends the water in the second return water path 23 to the downstream side. The water flow switch 32 detects the passage of water in the second return water path 23. The second heat source machine 12 is a gas heat source machine that heats the water passing through the second heat source machine 12.

[0032] The upstream end of the first water supply path 24 is connected to the second heat source machine 12, and the downstream end of the first water supply path 24 is connected to the microbubble generating unit 50 (specifically, the second water supply path 68).

[0033] (Structure of the microbubble generating unit 50)

[0034] The microbubble generating unit 50 includes a storage tank 52, a third return water path 60, a communication water path 66, a fourth return water path 62, a water jet path 64, a second water supply path 68, a third water supply path 70, a water supply water path 74, and an air introduction path 100.

[0035] The storage tank 52 can store water inside. A low water level electrode 52a and a high water level electrode 52b are provided inside the storage tank 52 for detecting the water level of the water stored in the storage tank 52. The water level detected by the low water level electrode 52a (hereinafter referred to as "lower limit water level") is lower than the water level detected by the high water level electrode 52b (hereinafter referred to as "upper limit water level"). When the low water level electrode 52a and the high water level electrode 52b come into contact with the water surface of the water stored in the storage tank 52, the low water level electrode 52a and the high water level electrode 52b output an on signal to the control device 150. The storage tank 52 is used to generate air-dissolved pressurized water in which air is dissolved in water.

[0036] One end of the third return water path 60 is connected to the communication water path 66, and the other end of the third return water path 60 is connected to the heat source unit 10 (specifically, the first return water path 22). The communication water path 66 connects the first switching valve 80 and the second switching valve 82. One end of the fourth return water path 62 is connected to the first switching valve 80, and the other end of the fourth return water path 62 is connected to the bathtub 130 (specifically, the circulation connector 132). The upstream end of the water jet path 64 is connected to the lower part of the storage tank 52, and the downstream end of the water jet path 64 is connected to the first switching valve 80. A check valve 84 is provided on the water jet path 64 to prevent water from flowing from the first switching valve 80 side to the storage tank 52 side. The first switching valve 80 can be switched between a first connection state ( Figure 1 and Figure 3 state), a second connection state ( Figure 2 state), and a third connection state ( Figure 4 and Figure 5 state). In the first connection state, the water jet path 64 is connected to the fourth return water path 62; in the second connection state, the water jet path 64 is connected to the communication water path 66; in the third connection state, the fourth return water path 62, the water jet path 64, and the communication water path 66 are connected.

[0037] The upstream end of the second water supply path 68 is connected to the heat source unit 10 (specifically, the first water supply path 24), and the downstream end of the second water supply path 68 is connected to the second switching valve 82. One end of the third water supply path 70 is connected to the bathtub 130 (specifically, the circulation connector 132), and the other end of the third water supply path 70 is connected to the second switching valve 82. The second switching valve 82 can be in a fourth connection state ( Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4the state) and the fifth connection state ( Figure 2 and Figure 5 the state), and switch between them. In the fourth connection state, the third water supply path 70 is connected to the communication water path 66; in the fifth connection state, the second water supply path 68 is connected to the third water supply path 70.

[0038] The second water supply path 68 is connected to the storage tank 52 through the water supply path 74. A water supply control valve 86 and a pressure pump 88 are provided on the water supply path 74. The water supply control valve 86 is provided at a position upstream of the pressure pump 88. The pressure pump 88 sends the water in the water supply path 74 to the downstream side.

[0039] When the first switching valve 80 is in the first connection state, the second switching valve 82 is in the fourth connection state, the hot water injection valve 26 is in the closed state, and the water supply control valve 86 is in the open state, when the circulation pump 30 is driven, as Figure 1 shown, the water flows. Specifically, the water reaches the second heat source machine 12 from the bathtub 130 via the third water supply path 70, the communication water path 66, the third return water path 60, the first return water path 22, and the second return water path 23. Then, the water passing through the second heat source machine 12 reaches the storage tank 52 via the first water supply path 24, the second water supply path 68, and the water supply path 74. Then, the water passing through the storage tank 52 reaches the bathtub 130 via the water spraying path 64 and the fourth return water path 62. Hereinafter, sometimes the Figure 1 state of the bathroom system 2 is referred to as the "water supply state". In addition, hereinafter, sometimes the Figure 1 state in which the water flows through the respective water paths 70, 66, 60, 22, 23, 24, 68, 74, 64, 62 is collectively referred to as the "first circulating water path".

[0040] In addition, when the first switching valve 80 is in the second connection state, the second switching valve 82 is in the fifth connection state, the hot water injection valve 26 is in the closed state, the water supply control valve 86 is in the closed state, and the air control valve 102 described later is in the open state, when the circulation pump 30 is driven, as Figure 2 shown, the water flows. Specifically, the water reaches the second heat source machine 12 from the storage tank 52 via the water spraying path 64, the communication water path 66, the third return water path 60, the first return water path 22, and the second return water path 23. Then, the water passing through the second heat source machine 12 reaches the bathtub 130 via the first water supply path 24, the second water supply path 68, and the third water supply path 70. Hereinafter, sometimes the Figure 2 state of the bathroom system 2 is referred to as the "air introduction state".

[0041] In addition, in a state where the first switching valve 80 is in the first connection state, the second switching valve 82 is in the fourth connection state, the hot water injection valve 26 is in the open state, and the water supply control valve 86 is in the open state, as Figure 3 shown, water flows. Specifically, water reaches the hot water injection path 20 from the water supply source 200 via the water supply path 204, the first heat source machine 202, and the hot water outlet path 206. Then, the water reaching the hot water injection path 20 branches into a water flow toward the first return water path 22 and a water flow toward the second return water path 23. The water flowing toward the first return water path 22 reaches the bathtub 130 via the third return water path 60, the communication water path 66, and the third water supply path 70. In addition, the water flowing toward the second return water path 23 reaches the bathtub 130 via the second heat source machine 12, the first water supply path 24, the second water supply path 68, the water supply water path 74, the storage tank 52, the water jet path 64, and the fourth return water path 62. Hereinafter, the state of the bathroom system 2 of Figure 3 may sometimes be referred to as the "hot water supply state". In addition, hereinafter, the first return water path 22, the third return water path 60, the communication water path 66, and the third water supply path 70 in the state of Figure 3 may sometimes be collectively referred to and denoted as the "first hot water injection water path". In addition, hereinafter, the second return water path 23, the first water supply path 24, the second water supply path 68, the water supply water path 74, the water jet path 64, and the fourth return water path 62 in the state of Figure 3 may sometimes be collectively referred to and denoted as the "second hot water injection water path".

[0042] In addition, in a state where the first switching valve 80 is in the third connection state, the second switching valve 82 is in the fourth connection state, the hot water injection valve 26 is in the open state, and the water supply control valve 86 is in the closed state, as Figure 4 shown, water flows. Specifically, water reaches the hot water injection path 20 from the water supply source 200 via the water supply path 204, the first heat source machine 202, and the hot water outlet path 206. Then, the water reaching the hot water injection path 20 reaches the communication water path 66 via the first return water path 22 and the third return water path 60. The water reaching the communication water path 66 branches into a water flow toward the fourth return water path 62 and a water flow toward the third water supply path 70. The water flowing toward the fourth return water path 62 reaches the bathtub 130 via the fourth return water path 62. In addition, the water flowing toward the third water supply path 70 reaches the bathtub 130 via the third water supply path 70. Hereinafter, the state of the bathroom system 2 of Figure 4 may sometimes be referred to as the "foot bath state". In addition, hereinafter, the first return water path 22, the third return water path 60, the communication water path 66, the fourth return water path 62, and the third water supply path 70 in the state of Figure 4 may sometimes be collectively referred to and denoted as the "connection water path".

[0043] In addition, in a state where the first switching valve 80 is in the third connection state, the second switching valve 82 is in the fifth connection state, the hot water injection valve 26 is in the closed state, and the water supply control valve 86 is in the closed state, when the circulation pump 30 is driven, as Figure 5 shown, water flows. Specifically, water reaches the second heat source machine 12 from the bathtub 130 via the fourth return water path 62, the communication water path 66, the third return water path 60, the first return water path 22, and the second return water path 23. Then, the water passing through the second heat source machine 12 reaches the bathtub 130 via the first water supply path 24, the second water supply path 68, and the third water supply path 70. Hereinafter, the Figure 5 state of the bathroom system 2 will sometimes be referred to as the "reheat state" or the "drain state". Hereinafter, sometimes the Figure 5 water flow paths 62, 66, 60, 22, 23, 24, 68, and 70 through which water flows in the

[0044] state will be collectively referred to as the "second circulating water path".

[0044] The upstream end side of the air introduction path 100 is open to the atmosphere, and the downstream end of the air introduction path 100 is connected to the storage tank 52. The air introduction path 100 introduces air into the storage tank 52. An air control valve 102 and a check valve (not shown) are provided on the air introduction path 100. When the air control valve 102 is driven and the circulation pump 30 is driven, air is introduced into the storage tank 52.

[0045] (Structure of the control device 150)

[0046] The control device 150 controls the operations of the respective structural elements of the heat source unit 10 and the microbubble generation unit 50. The control device 150 is configured to be able to communicate with a remote controller (not shown) operable by the user. The control device 150 has a memory 152. Stored in the memory 152 are various information (for example, the end times of the hot water supply operation and the foot bath operation) used by the subsequent operation process (refer to FIG. 7). The control device 150 can execute a hot water supply operation, a foot bath operation, a reheat operation, a drain operation, a microbubble supply operation, etc. in response to an operation by the user on the remote controller. In addition, the user can set the hot water supply set temperature, the hot water supply water volume, the foot bath set temperature, the foot bath water volume, the reheat set temperature, etc. by operating the remote controller.

[0047] (Structure of the circulation connector 132: FIGS. 6 and 7)

[0048] Next, the circulation connector 132 connected to the wall portion 130a of the bathtub 130 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. FIGS. 6 and 7 are diagrams schematically showing the cross section of the circulation connector 132. The arrows in FIGS. 6 and 7 indicate the flow of water. FIG. 6(a) shows the bathroom system 2 in the water supply state (i.e., Figure 1The water flow in the case of (state of), (b) of FIG. 6 shows that the bathroom system 2 is in an air-introducing state (i.e., Figure 2 The water flow in the case of (state of). In addition, (a) of FIG. 7 shows that the bathroom system 2 is in a hot water supply state (i.e., Figure 3 The state of) and a foot bath state (i.e., Figure 4 The state of), and (b) of FIG. 7 shows that the bathroom system 2 is in a reheating state and a drainage state (i.e., Figure 5 The state of). In addition, hereinafter, the up-down direction of FIGS. 6 and 7 is referred to as the up-down direction, and the left-right direction of FIGS. 6 and 7 is referred to as the front-back direction.

[0049] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the circulation connecting member 132 has an upper water path 136 and a lower water path 138. The upper water path 136 communicates with the fourth water path 62, and the lower water path 138 communicates with the third water supply path 70. The upper water path 136 branches into a first discharge path 136a and a first suction path 136b. The first discharge path 136a communicates with a first discharge port 134a provided on the front surface 132a of the circulation connecting member 132. The water discharged from the first discharge port 134a is discharged forward of the wall portion 130a of the bathtub 130, that is, in a direction perpendicular to the wall portion 130a. In addition, most of the water discharged from the first discharge port 134a is discharged in a direction perpendicular to the wall portion 130a, but a part of the water is discharged in a direction inclined to the wall portion 130a and in a direction parallel to the wall portion 130a (see (a) of FIG. 6, (a) of FIG. 7). That is, in the amount of water discharged from the first discharge port 134a, the amount of water in the vertical component perpendicular to the wall portion 130a is larger than the amount of water in the parallel component parallel to the wall portion 130a. In addition, in a modified example, in the amount of water discharged from the first discharge port 134a, if the amount of water in the vertical component perpendicular to the wall portion 130a is larger than the amount of water in the parallel component parallel to the wall portion 130a, the amount of water discharged in a direction inclined to the direction perpendicular to the wall portion 130a can be larger than the amount of water discharged in a direction perpendicular to the wall portion 130a. A check portion 140a and a microbubble discharge nozzle 142 are provided on the first discharge path 136a, and the check portion 140a prevents water from flowing from the front side to the rear side. The check portion 140a is provided at a position forward of the microbubble discharge nozzle 142. The microbubble discharge nozzle 142 decompresses the water passing through the microbubble discharge nozzle 142. The first suction path 136b communicates with a first suction port 134b provided on the front surface 132a of the circulation connecting member 132. A check portion 140b is provided on the first suction path 136b, and the check portion 140b prevents water from flowing from the rear side to the front side.

[0050] The lower water path 138 branches into a second discharge path 138a and a second suction path 138b. The second suction path 138b communicates with a second suction port 134c provided on the front surface 132a of the circulation connector 132. A check portion 140c is provided on the second suction path 138b to prevent water from flowing from the rear side to the front side. The second discharge path 138a communicates with a second discharge port 134d provided on the lower surface 132b of the circulation connector 132. The water discharged from the second discharge port 134d is discharged downward, that is, in a direction parallel to the wall portion 130a. In addition, most of the water discharged from the second discharge port 134d is discharged in a direction parallel to the wall portion 130a, but a part of the water is discharged in a direction inclined to the wall portion 130a and a direction perpendicular to the wall portion 130a (see (b) of FIG. 6, (a) of FIG. 7, and (b) of FIG. 7). That is, in the amount of water discharged from the second discharge port 134d, the amount of water having a parallel component parallel to the wall portion 130a is larger than the amount of water having a perpendicular component perpendicular to the wall portion 130a. In addition, in a modified example, in the amount of water discharged from the second discharge port 134d, if the amount of water having a parallel component parallel to the wall portion 130a is larger than the amount of water having a perpendicular component perpendicular to the wall portion 130a, the amount of water discharged in a direction inclined with respect to the direction parallel to the wall portion 130a can be larger than the amount of water discharged in a direction parallel to the wall portion 130a. A check portion 140d is provided on the second discharge path 138a to prevent water from flowing from the lower side to the upper side. In addition, the second discharge port 134d may be provided on a side surface (for example, a left side surface, a right side surface, etc.) of the circulation connector 132 other than the front surface 132a. Generally, as long as the second discharge port 134d is provided such that most of the water discharged from the second discharge port 134d is discharged in a direction parallel to the wall portion 130a.

[0051] (Operation of the bathroom system 2)

[0052] Next, the operation of the bathroom system 2 will be described. Hereinafter, the hot water supply operation, the foot bath operation, the reheating operation, the drainage operation, and the microbubble supply operation implemented by the bathroom system 2 will be described in this order. At the time points when the hot water supply operation, the foot bath operation, the reheating operation, the drainage operation, and the microbubble supply operation start, the first switching valve 80 and the second switching valve 82 are in the third connection state and the fifth connection state, respectively (see Figure 5 ). In addition, the driving of the circulation pump 30 and the pressurizing pump 88 is stopped, and the hot water injection valve 26, the water supply control valve 86, and the air control valve 102 are in the closed state.

[0053] (Hot water supply operation)

[0054] The hot water supply operation is an operation that heats the water supplied from the water supply source 200 to the hot water supply set temperature and supplies water with a hot water supply volume (e.g., 200 liters) to the bathtub 130. Generally, the hot water supply operation is an operation performed before bathing, in a state where there is no water remaining in the bathtub 130. When the user performs an operation on the remote controller to indicate the execution of the hot water supply operation, the hot water supply operation starts. When the hot water supply operation starts, the control device 150 switches the hot water injection valve 26 and the water supply control valve 86 from the closed state to the open state, switches the first switching valve 80 from the third connection state to the first connection state, switches the second switching valve 82 from the fifth connection state to the fourth connection state, and starts heating by the first heat source machine 202. Thus, as Figure 3 shown, the water heated to the hot water supply set temperature by the first heat source machine 202 flows into the hot water injection path 20 from the hot water outlet path 206. The water in the hot water injection path 20 that flows toward the first return water path 22 reaches the bathtub 130 via the first hot water injection water path (water paths 22, 60, 66, 70) and the circulation connector 132. In addition, the water in the hot water injection path 20 that flows toward the second return water path 23 reaches the bathtub 130 via the second hot water injection water path (water paths 23, 24, 68, 74, 64, 62) and the circulation connector 132. When the cumulative flow rate of the water supplied to the bathtub 130 reaches the hot water supply volume, the control device 150 ends the hot water supply operation. The control device 150 switches the hot water injection valve 26 and the water supply control valve 86 from the open state to the closed state, switches the first switching valve 80 from the first connection state to the third connection state, switches the second switching valve 82 from the fourth connection state to the fifth connection state, and stops the drive of the first heat source machine 202. In addition, the control device 150 stores the end time of the hot water supply operation in the memory 152. As described above, during the hot water supply operation, the water heated by the first heat source machine 202 is supplied to the storage tank 52, but there is no air in the storage tank 52, so air-dissolved pressurized water is not generated.

[0055] (Foot bath operation)

[0056] The foot bath operation is an operation that heats the water supplied from the water supply source 200 to the foot bath set temperature and supplies water with a foot bath volume (e.g., 20 liters) to the bathtub 130. Generally, the foot bath operation is an operation performed during bathing, in a state where there is water remaining in the bathtub 130. When the user performs an operation on the remote controller to indicate the execution of the foot bath operation, the foot bath operation starts. When the foot bath operation starts, the control device 150 switches the hot water injection valve 26 from the closed state to the open state, maintains the first switching valve 80 in the third connection state, switches the second switching valve 82 from the fifth connection state to the fourth connection state, and starts heating by the first heat source machine 202. Thus, asFigure 4 As shown, the water heated by the first heat source machine 202 flows from the hot water outlet path 206 into the hot water injection path 20. The water flowing into the hot water injection path 20 reaches the bathtub 130 via the connecting water path (water paths 22, 60, 66, 62, 70) and the circulation connector 132. When the cumulative flow rate of the water supplied to the bathtub 130 reaches the foot bath water volume, the control device 150 ends the foot bath operation. The foot bath water volume is smaller than the hot water supply volume. The control device 150 switches the hot water injection valve 26 from the open state to the closed state, maintains the first switching valve 80 in the third connection state, switches the second switching valve 82 from the fourth connection state to the fifth connection state, and stops the driving of the first heat source machine 202.

[0057] (Reheating operation)

[0058] The reheating operation is an operation in which the bathtub water is heated by the second heat source machine 12 when the first switching valve 80 is in the third connection state and the second switching valve 82 is in the fifth connection state ( Figure 5 state). When the user performs an operation on the remote controller to indicate the execution of the reheating operation, the reheating operation starts. The control device 150 drives the circulation pump 30 and the second heat source machine 12. Thus, as Figure 5 shown, the bathtub water circulates in the second circulating water path (water paths 62, 66, 60, 22, 23, 24, 68, 70). Specifically, the bathtub water is supplied to the second heat source machine 12 via the circulation connector 132, the fourth return water path 62, the communicating water path 66, the third return water path 60, the first return water path 22, and the second return water path 23. Then, the water heated by the second heat source machine 12 is supplied to the bathtub 130 via the first water supply path 24, the second water supply path 68, the third water supply path 70, and the circulation connector 132. When the temperature in the bathtub 130 reaches the reheating set temperature or after the reheating operation time has elapsed, the control device 150 stops the driving of the second heat source machine 12 and the circulation pump 30. Thus, the reheating operation ends.

[0059] (Microbubble supply operation process: Figure 8 )

[0060] Next, with reference to Figure 8 the microbubble supply operation process executed by the control device 150 of the bathroom system 2 will be described. In the microbubble supply operation process, the control device 150 executes a drainage operation and a microbubble supply operation as preparatory operations. The microbubble supply operation consists of an air introduction operation (S30 - S34) and a water supply operation (S40 - S44) described later. When the user performs an operation on the remote controller to indicate the execution of the microbubble supply operation, the control device 150 obtains the operation execution instruction from the remote controller and starts Figure 8 the process.

[0061] In S10, the control device 150 determines whether the standby time, which is the time from the end time of the hot water supply operation to the current time, is longer than the first specified time. If the standby time is longer than the first specified time, the control device 150 determines "Yes" in S10, and the process proceeds to S20. On the other hand, if the standby time is equal to or less than the first specified time, the control device 150 determines "No" in S10, and the process proceeds to S30.

[0062] In S20, the control device 150 drives the circulation pump 30 to start the drainage operation. Thereby, as Figure 5 shown, the bathtub water circulates in the second circulating water path (water paths 62, 66, 60, 22, 23, 24, 68, 70). Specifically, the bathtub water is supplied to the bathtub 130 via the circulation connector 132, the fourth return water path 62, the communication water path 66, the third return water path 60, the first return water path 22, the second return water path 23, the second heat source machine 12, the first water supply path 24, the second water supply path 68, the third water supply path 70, and the circulation connector 132. Thus, the high-temperature water in the bathtub 130 flows into the second circulating water path, and the low-temperature water in the second circulating water path is drained from the second drain outlet 134d on the lower surface 132b of the circulation connector 132 to the bathtub 130. In addition, in S20 of the modification, the control device 150 may also drive the circulation pump 30 and drive the second heat source machine 12.

[0063] In S22, the control device 150 monitors whether the drainage operation time, which is the time from the start of the drainage operation, has passed the second specified time. If the drainage operation time is longer than the second specified time, the control device 150 determines "Yes" in S22, and the process proceeds to S24.

[0064] In S24, the control device 150 stops driving the circulation pump 30 to end the drainage operation. When S24 ends, the process proceeds to S30.

[0065] In S30, the control device 150 starts the air introduction operation. The control device 150 switches the air control valve 102 from the closed state to the open state, switches the first switching valve 80 from the third connection state to the second connection state, maintains the second switching valve 82 in the fifth connection state, and maintains the water supply control valve 86 in the closed state. Thereby, the bathroom system 2 becomes the air introduction state (refer to Figure 2 ). Then, the control device 150 drives the circulation pump 30. Accordingly, as Figure 2As shown, water is sucked out from the storage tank 52, and air is introduced into the storage tank 52 via the air introduction path 100. The water sucked out from the storage tank 52 is discharged to the bathtub 130 via the water jet path 64, the communication water path 66, the third return water path 60, the first return water path 22, the second return water path 23, the second heat source machine 12, the first water supply path 24, the second water supply path 68, the third water supply path 70, and the circulation connector 132.

[0066] In S32, the control device 150 monitors the situation where the water level in the storage tank 52 is lower than the lower limit water level. When the water level in the storage tank 52 is lower than the lower limit water level, the control device 150 determines "Yes" in S32, and the process proceeds to S34.

[0067] In S34, the control device 150 switches the air control valve 102 to the closed state and ends the air introduction operation.

[0068] In S40, the control device 150 starts the water supply operation. The control device 150 switches the first switching valve 80 from the second connection state to the first connection state, switches the second switching valve 82 from the fifth connection state to the fourth connection state, and switches the water supply control valve 86 to the open state. Thus, the bathroom system 2 becomes the water supply state (refer to Figure 1 ). Then, the control device 150 drives the pressure pump 88. Thus, as Figure 1 shown, the bathtub water circulates in the first circulating water path (water paths 70, 66, 60, 22, 23, 24, 68, 74, 64, 62). Specifically, the bathtub water is supplied to the storage tank 52 via the circulation connector 132, the third water supply path 70, the communication water path 66, the third return water path 60, the first return water path 22, the second return water path 23, the second heat source machine 12, the first water supply path 24, the second water supply path 68, and the water supply water path 74. At this time, the water pressurized by the pressure pump 88 is supplied to the storage tank 52 from the water supply water path 74. Inside the storage tank 52, air is pressurized and dissolved in the water, thereby generating air-dissolved pressurized water. Then, the air-dissolved pressurized water is supplied from the storage tank 52 to the bathtub 130 via the water jet path 64, the fourth return water path 62, and the circulation connector 132. When the air-dissolved pressurized water passes through the microbubble discharge nozzle 142 inside the circulation connector 132, it is depressurized below atmospheric pressure and pressurized to atmospheric pressure when sprayed into the bathtub 130. Accordingly, microbubbles are generated in the water of the bathtub 130.

[0069] In S42, the control device 150 monitors the situation where the water level in the storage tank 52 becomes above the upper limit water level. When the water level in the storage tank 52 becomes above the upper limit water level, the control device 150 determines "Yes" in S42, and the process proceeds to S44.

[0070] In S44, the control device 150 switches the water supply control valve 86 to the closed state, stops the circulation pump 30 and the pressurizing pump 88, and ends the water supply operation.

[0071] In S50, the control device 150 increments the number of cycles by 1. The number of cycles is the number of executions of the air introduction operation and the water supply operation.

[0072] In S52, the control device 150 determines whether the current number of cycles has reached a specified number (e.g., 5 times). If the number of cycles has reached the specified number, the control device 150 determines "Yes" in S52 and ends Figure 8 the process. On the other hand, if the number of cycles has not reached the specified number, the control device 150 determines "No" in S52, and the process returns to S30. Further, in S30 after passing through S52, the control device 150 switches the second switching valve 82 from the fourth connection state to the fifth connection state.

[0073] As described above, in the hot water supply operation, the water heated to the hot water supply set temperature by the first heat source machine 202 is supplied to the bathtub 130 via the first circulating water path and the storage tank 52. Therefore, at the time point when the hot water supply operation ends, the water heated to the hot water supply set temperature is stored in the first circulating water path and the storage tank 52. In this case, thereafter, at the time point when the fine bubble supply operation is executed, the possibility of raising the temperature of the water in the first circulating water path and the temperature of the water in the storage tank 52 to a relatively high temperature can be increased. Therefore, immediately after the start of the fine bubble supply operation, even if the water supplied to the bathtub 130 directly impacts the bather, the situation where the bather feels discomfort can be suppressed, thereby improving the comfort of the bather.

[0074] In addition, the hot water supply operation is an operation performed before bathing, in a state where no water remains in the bathtub 130. Therefore, at the start time of the hot water supply operation, cold water remains in the first circulation water path and the storage tank 52. By performing the hot water supply operation, even if the cold water remaining in the first circulation water path and the storage tank 52 is discharged from the first outlet 134a to the bathtub 130, the cold water will not directly impact the bather. On the other hand, the foot bath operation is an operation performed after the hot water supply operation and is likely to be performed during bathing. When a long time has passed after the hot water supply operation is performed, sometimes the temperature of the water in the first circulation water path becomes lower than the temperature of the water in the bathtub 130. Therefore, in the case of the structure where the water heated by the first heat source machine 202 is supplied to the bathtub 130 via the storage tank 52 during the foot bath operation, the cold water remaining in the first circulation water path and the storage tank 52 is discharged from the first outlet 134a to the bathtub 130, and the cold water may directly impact the bather. According to the above structure, when the hot water supply operation is performed, the control device 150 supplies the water heated by the first heat source machine 202 to the bathtub 130 via the storage tank 52 (refer to Figure 3 ), and when the foot bath operation is performed, the control device 150 supplies the water heated by the first heat source machine 202 to the bathtub 130 without passing through the storage tank 52 (refer to Figure 4 ). Therefore, it is possible to replace the water in the first circulation water path with high-temperature water without directly impacting the bather with cold water and causing discomfort to the bather.

[0075] In addition, in a situation where the temperature of the water in the first circulation water path becomes lower than the temperature of the water in the bathtub 130, when the microbubble supply operation is performed, the relatively cold water in the first circulation water path is discharged from the first outlet 134a into the bathtub 130, and the cold water may directly impact the bather. According to the above structure, after the first specified time has passed since the end of the hot water supply operation, when the control device 150 obtains an operation execution instruction ( Figure 8In the case where the determination in S10 is YES, the drainage operation (S20 to S24) is performed, and then the microbubble supply operation (S30 to S44) is performed. In the drainage operation, most of the low-temperature water is discharged in a direction parallel to the wall portion 130a provided along the second row of outlets 134d. Therefore, the low-temperature water is not likely to directly impact the bather. Moreover, in the drainage operation, the low-temperature water in the second circulating water path is replaced by the bathtub water. Thus, the water in the water path shared by the first circulating water path and the second circulating water path is replaced by the bathtub water. As a result, it is possible to suppress the situation where the low-temperature water is discharged into the bathtub 130 through the first row of outlets 134a immediately after the start of the microbubble supply operation. Additionally, before the first specified time elapses since the start of the hot water supply operation, when the control device 150 obtains an operation execution instruction (NO in S10), the microbubble supply operation is performed without performing the drainage operation. When the first specified time has not elapsed since the end of the hot water supply operation, the temperature of the water in the first circulating water path is maintained at a relatively high temperature. Therefore, even if the water in the first circulating water path directly impacts the bather when the microbubble supply operation is performed without performing the drainage operation, the bather will not feel discomfort. In this case, compared with the case where the drainage operation is performed, the time from receiving the operation execution instruction to starting the microbubble supply operation can be shortened. Therefore, the comfort of the bather can be improved.

[0076] (Corresponding relationship)

[0077] The first heat source machine 202 is an example of a "heating device". Air is an example of a "gas". The water supply path 204, the hot water outlet path 206, and the hot water injection path 20 are examples of a "water injection path". The third water supply path 70, the communication water path 66, the third return water path 60, the first return water path 22, the second return water path 23, the first water supply path 24, the second water supply path 68, and the fourth return water path 62 are examples of a "water path shared by the first circulating water path and the second circulating water path". The first specified time is an example of a "determination time".

[0078] As described above in detail, the embodiments are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the technical solution. The technical features described in the scope of the technical solution include various modifications and changes to the specific examples illustrated above.

[0079] (First Modified Example) In the above-described embodiment, during the hot water supply operation, high-temperature water is supplied to the bathtub 130 via the first hot water injection water path and the second hot water injection water path. In the modified example, it may be configured that, when performing the hot water supply operation and the foot bath operation, high-temperature water is supplied to the bathtub 130 via the first hot water injection water path and the second hot water injection water path. Further, in another modified example, it may be configured that, when only performing the foot bath operation, high-temperature water is supplied to the bathtub 130 via the first hot water injection water path and the second hot water injection water path.

[0080] (Second Modified Example) The bathroom system 2 may include a water level sensor for detecting the water level in the bathtub 130. In this modified example, during the hot water supply operation, when the water level in the bathtub 130 reaches a specified water level, the control device 150 determines that the amount of water supplied to the bathtub 130 has reached the hot water supply amount, and thus ends the hot water supply operation.

[0081] (Third Modified Example) S10 of Figure 8 can be omitted. That is, it may be configured that, when receiving an operation execution instruction from the remote controller, the control device 150 must perform the drainage operation.

[0082] (Fourth Modified Example) The bathroom system 2 may include a temperature detection unit for detecting the temperature of the water in the first circulating water path or the temperature of the water in the storage tank 52. In this modified example, in S10 of Figure 8 , when the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit is below the specified temperature, the processes of S20 to S24 are executed.

[0083] (Fifth Modified Example) It may be configured that, in Figure 8In the microbubble supply operation process, after S24, the control device 150 switches the first switching valve 80 from the third connection state to the second connection state, switches the second switching valve 82 from the fifth connection state to the fourth connection state, switches the water supply control valve 86 from the closed state to the open state, and drives the circulation pump 30. In this case, water circulates in the water ejection path 64, the communication water path 66, the third return water path 60, the first return water path 22, the second return water path 23, the first water supply path 24, the second water supply path 68, and the water supply water path 74. Thus, the low-temperature water staying in the water supply water path 74, the storage tank 52, and the water ejection path 64 is mixed with the water in the second circulation water path replaced by the bathtub water during the drainage operation, so that the temperature of the water in the water supply water path 74, the storage tank 52, and the water ejection path 64 rises. Then, when the third specified time has elapsed since the time when the circulation pump 30 is driven, the control device 150 stops the drive of the circulation pump 30 and switches the water supply control valve 86 from the open state to the closed state. With such a configuration, it is possible to further suppress the situation where the low-temperature water is discharged into the bathtub 130 via the first discharge port 134a immediately after the start of the microbubble supply operation.

[0084] (Sixth Modification Example) In the above-described embodiment, air is introduced into the storage tank 52. In the modification example, instead of air, gases such as carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and oxygen can be introduced into the storage tank 52. In this case, the storage tank filled with the gas can be disposed at the upstream end of the air introduction path 100.

[0085] The technical elements described in this specification or the drawings exhibit technical usefulness either individually or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations recited in the claims at the time of application. In addition, the technologies illustrated in this specification or the drawings can achieve multiple purposes simultaneously, and achieving one of the purposes itself has technical practicality.

Claims

1. A bathroom system, characterized in that, it has a first circulating water path, a storage tank, a microbubble discharge nozzle, a second circulating water path, a water injection path, a first heating device, a second heating device, a switching unit, and a control device, wherein, the first circulating water path circulates the water in the bathtub; the storage tank is provided on the first circulating water path; the microbubble discharge nozzle is provided on the first circulating water path; the second circulating water path circulates the water in the bathtub and does not have the storage tank; one end of the water injection path is connected to a water supply source, and the other end is connected to the first circulating water path and the second circulating water path; the first heating device is provided on the water injection path; the second heating device is provided on the second circulating water path; the switching unit switches between a first switching state in which water flows in the first circulating water path and a second switching state in which water flows in the second circulating water path, the control device is configured to be able to execute a hot water supply operation, a microbubble supply operation, and a reheating operation, in the hot water supply operation, in a state where there is no water remaining in the bathtub, the switching unit is set to the first switching state, and water in the amount of the hot water supply volume, which is supplied from the water supply source and heated to the hot water supply set temperature by the first heating device, is supplied to the bathtub via the water injection path, the first circulating water path, and the storage tank; in the microbubble supply operation, the switching unit is set to the first switching state, the water in the bathtub is supplied to the storage tank provided on the first circulating water path, gas is dissolved in the water in the storage tank to generate gas-dissolved pressurized water, and the generated gas-dissolved pressurized water is discharged into the bathtub via the microbubble discharge nozzle; in the reheating operation, in a state where there is water remaining in the bathtub, the switching unit is set to the second switching state, and the water heated by the second heating device is supplied to the bathtub via the second circulating water path.

2. The bathroom system according to claim 1, characterized in that, the bathroom system further has a first discharge port, a second discharge port, and a suction port, wherein, the first discharge port is provided on the wall of the bathtub, and in the amount of water discharged from the first discharge port, the amount of water in the vertical component perpendicular to the wall on which the first discharge port is provided is more than the amount of water in the parallel component parallel to the wall on which the first discharge port is provided; the second discharge port is provided on the wall of the bathtub, and in the amount of water discharged from the second discharge port, the amount of water in the parallel component parallel to the wall on which the second discharge port is provided is more than the amount of water in the vertical component perpendicular to the wall on which the second discharge port is provided, the suction port sucks the water in the bathtub, the first circulating water path connects the suction port and the first discharge port, the second circulating water path connects the suction port and the second discharge port, a part of the first circulating water path and a part of the second circulating water path are shared, The control device is configured such that, during the microbubble supply operation, the switching unit is set to the first switching state, water in the bathtub is sucked in from the suction port, and water passing through the first circulating water path, the storage tank, and the microbubble discharge nozzle is discharged from the first discharge port into the bathtub. The control device is further configured to be able to perform a drainage operation, that is, the switching unit is set to the second switching state, water in the bathtub is sucked in from the suction port, and water in the second circulating water path is discharged from the second discharge port into the bathtub via the second circulating water path. Before the lapse of the determination time since the end of the hot water supply operation, when the control device obtains an instruction for performing the microbubble supply operation, that is, an operation execution instruction, the control device performs the microbubble supply operation without performing the drainage operation. After the lapse of the determination time since the end of the hot water supply operation, when the control device obtains the operation execution instruction, the control device performs the drainage operation and then performs the microbubble supply operation.

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