Shower device

Abstract

Provided is a more suitable shower device based on a combination of continuous water discharge flow and water mist discharge. The present invention is a switching shower device having a plurality of water discharge modes including a first water discharge mode and a second water discharge mode, the shower device being provided with: a grip part for a user to grip; a first water discharge path for discharging hot water or cold water in the first water discharge mode; a second water discharge path that discharges hot water or cold water in the second water discharge mode; a switching operation unit for switching between the first water discharge mode and the second water discharge mode; and a switching member that switches between a water-guiding state to the first water discharge flow path and a water-guiding state to the second water discharge flow path in conjunction with the operation of the switching operation unit, the water discharged from the first water discharge flow path being continuous water discharged without granulation during a certain distance or more. The spouted water from the second spouted water flow path is mist-like spouted water. The switching operation unit passes through another water discharge mode when switching from the second water discharge mode to the first water discharge mode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a shower device which utilizes water spraying with a fine particle diameter, namely, water mist spraying. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there has been known a shower device that utilizes water jetting with a fine particle diameter, that is, water mist jetting (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Shower devices that use water mist spray are less irritating to the skin and have a high rate of removing sebum. Therefore, they are excellent for face washing.

[0004] Such characteristics are due to the characteristics of water mist discharge, that is, compared with the usual spray discharge, the water droplets are finer, the number of water droplets is greater, and the water droplet distribution is more uniform.

[0005] To explain in more detail, in normal showering, large water droplets randomly hit dirt, while in misting, a large number of small water droplets evenly hit dirt. Thus, misting can achieve both better skin feel and higher cleaning power.

[0006] Patent Literature Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-013839 Summary of the invention

[0007] As described above, the mist spouting can achieve a higher cleaning power than the normal shower spouting.

[0008] However, since the particle size of water mist is relatively small, the temperature tends to drop after being ejected from the opening (water mist nozzle). On the other hand, in a continuous water jet flow such as a rectified water jet, the temperature drop after being ejected from the opening is smaller, and after hitting the body, it flows along the surface. Therefore, even if the water jet temperature is the same, it will be easy to feel like a higher temperature.

[0009] Therefore, at a certain temperature setting, after just receiving the mist water discharge, if you receive a continuous water discharge flow such as rectifier water discharge at the same temperature setting (without changing the temperature setting), the difference in perceived temperature will be sudden and you may feel the unpleasant sensation of "very hot water".

[0010] The inventors of the present invention have studied an improved solution for solving this problem in a shower device that combines a continuous water jetting flow such as a straight-flow jetting and a mist jetting.

[0011] Furthermore, it was found to be effective to set restrictions on the switching order of the water spouting modes so that, at a certain temperature setting, just after receiving the mist spouting, a continuous water spouting flow such as rectifier spouting would not be received at the same temperature setting (without performing an operation to change the temperature setting).

[0012] The present invention was completed based on such knowledge. The purpose of the present invention is to provide a shower device that combines continuous water jetting and mist water jetting, and in a certain temperature setting, after mist water jetting is received, a continuous water jetting such as rectified water jetting is not received at the same temperature setting (without performing an operation to change the temperature setting).

[0013] The present invention is a shower device, which is a switchable shower device having a plurality of water jetting modes including a first water jetting mode, a second water jetting mode, and a third water jetting mode, and is characterized in that it comprises: a grip portion for a user to grip; a first water jetting flow path for jetting hot water or cold water in the first water jetting mode; a second water jetting flow path for jetting hot water or cold water in the second water jetting mode; a third water jetting flow path for jetting hot water or cold water in the third water jetting mode; a switching operation portion for switching the first water jetting mode, the second water jetting mode, and the third water jetting mode; and a switching member for switching the first water jetting mode, the second water jetting mode, and the third water jetting mode in conjunction with an operation of the switching operation portion. The switching operation unit is configured to switch a water guide state to the first water jetting flow path, a water guide state to the second water jetting flow path, and a water guide state to the third water jetting flow path, wherein the water jetted from the first water jetting flow path is continuous water jetted without being granulated for a period of more than a certain distance, the water jetted from the second water jetting flow path is mist-like water jetted, and the water jetted from the third water jetting flow path is water jetted which is different from the continuous water jetted without being granulated for a period of more than a certain distance and is different from the mist-like water jetted, and the switching operation unit is configured to switch from the second water jetting mode to the first water jetting mode without fail through the third water jetting mode.

[0014] According to the present invention, when switching from the mist water jetting mode (the second water jetting mode) to the continuous water jetting mode (the first water jetting mode), it is configured to pass through the third water jetting mode, thereby more reliably preventing a continuous water jetting flow such as rectified water jetting from being received at the same temperature setting (without performing an operation to change the temperature setting) just after receiving the mist water jetting at a certain temperature setting.

[0015] The certain distance is preferably 10 cm at a water discharge rate of 1.0 L / min. That is, in this specification, continuous water discharge is preferably water discharge that does not granulate for more than 10 cm (after discharge from the opening) at a water discharge rate of 1.0 L / min.

[0016] In addition, the water ejected from the third water ejection flow path is preferably water ejected from a fluid element nozzle. Unlike continuous water ejection, water ejected from a fluid element nozzle generally granulates at about 1 cm under a water ejection rate of 1.0 L / min (after ejection from the opening).

[0017] In addition, it is preferred that the first opening portion of the first water jetting flow path is composed of a first main component, the second opening portion of the second water jetting flow path is composed of a second main component, and the third opening portion of the third water jetting flow path is composed of a third main component, and the thermal conductivity of the third main component is lower than the thermal conductivity of the first main component.

[0018] Thus, since it is difficult to dissipate the heat of the hot water through the third main component, the temperature drop of the water discharged from the third opening (for example, the water discharged from the fluid element nozzle) can be suppressed. Therefore, even after receiving the water discharge in the third water discharge mode, when receiving a continuous water discharge flow such as rectified water discharge at the same temperature setting (without performing an operation to change the temperature setting), the temperature difference between the two is small, and the unpleasant feeling of "very hot water" can be suppressed.

[0019] In addition, at this time, it is preferred that the first opening portion is located approximately in the center of the water discharge surface, the second opening portion is dispersedly arranged in the circumferential direction of approximately the same circle surrounding the first opening portion, and the third opening portion surrounds the first opening portion and is dispersedly arranged in the circumferential direction of approximately the same circle located inside the second opening portion, and is dispersedly arranged in the circumferential direction of approximately the same circle located outside the second opening portion.

[0020] Thus, the third openings (eg, fluid element nozzles) can be dispersedly arranged in a wide area in the water discharge surface, so that water discharge from the third openings (eg, fluid element nozzles) can be comfortably received.

[0021] According to the present invention, when switching from the mist water jetting mode (the second water jetting mode) to the continuous water jetting mode (the first water jetting mode), it is configured to pass through the third water jetting mode, thereby more reliably preventing a continuous water jetting flow such as rectified water jetting from being received at the same temperature setting (without performing an operation to change the temperature setting) just after receiving the mist water jetting at a certain temperature setting. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view showing a shower device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 It is a longitudinal sectional view of the shower device of this embodiment. Figure 3 It is a partially cutaway perspective view of the shower device according to the present embodiment. Figure 4 It is an exploded perspective view of the shower device according to this embodiment. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram for explaining the opening and closing of the pilot hole. Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram for explaining the disk pressing member. Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram for explaining the rotation of the disk member. Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram for explaining the three water jetting flow paths that are switched. Fig. 9 It is a sectional perspective view showing a cross section passing through each center line of a pair of adjacent water mist nozzles. Fig.10 It is the main component of the water mist nozzle. Fig. 9 A sectional perspective view of . Fig.11 This is a longitudinal sectional view of the mist nozzle in the radial direction cross section of the shower device according to the present embodiment. Fig.12 is corresponding to Fig.11 A sectional perspective view of . Fig.13 This is a schematic diagram showing the water jetting state from a pair of adjacent water mist nozzles. Fig.14 This is a schematic diagram showing the relative positional relationship between an opening for continuous water jetting and a mist nozzle for mist water jetting in the shower device of the present embodiment. Explanation of symbols 1-shower device; 2-water supply member; 3-water supply member; 4-secondary side flow path member; 5-storage chamber; 7-shower head frame; 8-cover member; 10-disc member; 10h-communication hole; 10t-tooth; 11-press button; 11a-abutment sliding inclined portion; 11s-rotation shaft; 12-rod portion; 12a-abutment ring; 12s-sealing ring member; 13-stopper; 14-coil spring; 15-claw structure 15t-claw; 16-ratchet; 17-ratchet fixing portion; 20-diaphragm member; 21-diaphragm valve; 21b-back pressure chamber; 21c-back pressure chamber outflow hole; 21d-back pressure chamber inflow hole; 22-diaphragm valve; 22b-back pressure chamber; 22c-back pressure chamber outflow hole; 22d-back pressure chamber inflow hole; 23-diaphragm valve; 23b-back pressure chamber; 23c-back pressure chamber outflow hole; 23d-back pressure chamber inflow hole; 24- Sealing ring; 30-disc pressing member; 31-tubular portion; 31c-outflow communication passage; 32-tubular portion; 32c-outflow communication passage; 33-tubular portion; 33c-outflow communication passage; 35-coil spring; 38-spacer member; 40-main member; 40a-upper edge; 41-valve seat; 42-valve seat; 43-valve seat; 44-outflow hole; 45-outflow hole; 46-outflow hole; 47-main member; 47a -Matching hole; 48-main component; 49-main component; 51-flow-assisting flow path; 52-small hole; 53-vortex chamber; 54-flat-headed conical chamber; 55-water discharge hole (water mist nozzle); 56-water mist flow path forming component; 56a-large diameter bulge; 57-rectifying component; P-opening; PF-first water discharge area; M-water mist nozzle; MF-second water discharge area; C-circular spray nozzle; R-rectangular fluid element nozzle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Basic structure Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The shower device of the present embodiment is a shower device that can switch between a plurality of water jetting modes (can perform water jetting in a plurality of water jetting modes).

[0024] Figure 1 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a shower device 1 according to the present embodiment. Figure 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of the shower device 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 3 is a partially cutaway perspective view of the shower device 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 4 : is an exploded perspective view of the shower device 1 of this embodiment. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram for explaining the opening and closing of the pilot hole. Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram for explaining the disk pressing member.

[0025] like Figures 1 to 3As shown, the shower device 1 of this embodiment includes a storage room 5 (also referred to as a chamber) to which water is supplied from a water supply source (not shown) via water supply members 2 and 3 and stored.

[0026] A secondary flow path member 4 composed of four substantially disk-shaped main members 40, 47, 48, and 49 is provided on the water discharge surface side of the shower device 1 relative to the storage chamber 5. The secondary flow path member 4 has three (one example of a plurality) water discharge flow paths corresponding to three (one example of a plurality) water discharge modes.

[0027] See also Figures 4 to 6 In the secondary side flow path member 4, on the main member 40 facing the storage chamber 5, three valve seats 41 to 43 are formed which bulge toward the storage chamber 5 side, and a communication hole connected to the corresponding flow path is provided at the center of each valve seat 41 to 43. The three valve seats 41 to 43 (and the corresponding flow paths) are evenly arranged at 120 degrees in the circumferential direction in an annular shape.

[0028] The diaphragm valves 21 to 23 are provided in an annular shape so as to correspond to the three valve seats 41 to 43 , respectively. The three diaphragm valves 21 to 23 are formed integrally with the diaphragm member 20 as one part, but each of the diaphragm valves 21 to 23 can be independently operated.

[0029] A seal ring 24 is formed on the outer periphery of the diaphragm member 20. The seal ring 24 is watertightly sandwiched by the upper edge 40a of the main member 40 and the cover member 8. On the other hand, the center region of the diaphragm member 20 is supported on the upper surface of the main member 40 via the spacer member 38.

[0030] In addition, coil springs (not shown) are provided between the diaphragm valves 21 to 23 and the lower surface of the cover member 8 , respectively, and the diaphragm valves 21 to 23 are biased in the blocking direction by the coil springs.

[0031] In addition, the three diaphragm valves 21 to 23 of the present embodiment are arranged in a ring shape, and the pilot holes (part of which are the back pressure chamber outflow holes 21c to 23c formed on the lower side of the cover member 8) for connecting the back pressure chambers 21b to 23b of each diaphragm valve 21 to 23 with the outer space of the storage chamber 5, that is, the space below the main member 40, are concentrated in the center side area where the three diaphragm valves 21 to 23 are arranged, and are opened and closed by the disc member 10 that functions as a common pilot valve. (When there are two diaphragm valves, the pilot holes for connecting the back pressure chambers of each diaphragm valve with the outer space of the storage chamber 5, that is, the space below the main member 40, can be concentrated in the area on the middle side where the two diaphragm valves are arranged.)

[0032] The disk member 10 is made of resin, supported so as to be rotatable about its own rotation axis, and has 12 teeth 10t (also refer to the following) on ​​the outer periphery. Figure 7 ).

[0033] Especially refer to Figure 4 The disc member 10 has four (an example of a plurality) communicating holes 10h, and the four communicating holes 10h are selectively connected to the back pressure chamber outflow holes 21c to 23c provided in the back pressure chambers 21b to 23b of the diaphragm valves 21 to 23 in accordance with the rotational position of the disc member 10, thereby opening the pilot holes of the diaphragm valves 21 to 23. More specifically, when the back pressure chamber outflow holes 21c to 23c and the outflow holes 44 to 46 provided on the main member 40 in a manner corresponding to the back pressure chamber outflow holes 21c to 23c are selectively connected by the communicating holes 10h of the disc member 10, the pilot holes of the diaphragm valves 21 to 23 are opened. The four communicating holes 10h are evenly arranged at 90 degrees in the circumferential direction. The back pressure chamber outflow holes 21c to 23c and the outflow holes 44 to 46 are evenly arranged at 120 degrees in the circumferential direction.

[0034] Next, refer especially to Figure 5 The disk pressing member 30 is located between the back pressure chamber outflow holes 21c to 23c and the disk member 10, and is pressed against the disk member 10 by the coil spring 35 in a direction away from the back pressure chamber outflow holes 21c to 23c (toward the main member 40).

[0035] In addition, the disk pressing member 30 is provided with outflow communication passages 31c to 33c that are connected to the back pressure chamber outflow holes 21c to 23c of each diaphragm valve 21 to 23. In the present embodiment, the outflow communication passages 31c to 33c are respectively composed of tubular portions 31 to 33, and each tubular portion 31 to 33 is inserted into the corresponding back pressure chamber outflow hole 21c to 23c. Moreover, there is a gap remaining between each tubular portion 31 to 33 and the back pressure chamber outflow hole 21c to 23c, and the gap functions as the back pressure chamber inflow hole. Or, as Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , a configuration may be adopted in which the back pressure chamber inflow holes 21 d to 23 d are provided in a part of the diaphragm valves 21 to 23 .

[0036] return Figures 1 to 3 A push button 11 is provided at the lower part of the shower head frame 7 as a switching operation part for the user to apply an operating force. (Instead of the push button 11, other types of buttons or sliding switches may also be provided.)

[0037] Each time the user performs a pressing operation (each time the user applies a pressing force as an operating force), the push button 11 rotates around the rotation axis 11s. In conjunction with the rotation of the push button 11, the push button 11 is pressed by the contact sliding inclined portion 11a (see Figure 4 ) and the contact ring 12a (see Figure 4) abuts (and slides) against the rod 12, and the rod 12 reciprocates in its own axial direction.

[0038] The tip of the rod 12 is exposed in the storage chamber 5 (in the water) (see Figure 6 ), which is made of a metal rod such as stainless steel having the property of not rusting. In this embodiment, the rod portion 12 can slide through the main component 40 which is fixed integrally to the shower head frame 7. In order to maintain watertightness, a sealing ring component 12s (see Figure 4 ). The rod portion 12 may be made not only of a rigid body but also of a plastic body such as a string or an elastic body such as rubber.

[0039] Figure 7 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining the rotation of the disk member 10. Figure 7 As shown, a coil spring 14 is disposed around the tip of the rod 12 located in the storage chamber 5. The base end of the coil spring 14 is fixed to the main member 40, thereby being fixed to the shower head frame 7 (rotation shaft 11s of the push button 11).

[0040] A claw member 15 is fixed at the top end of the coil spring 14, and a stopper 13 for the claw member 15 is installed at the top end of the rod portion 12. Through the deformation of the coil spring 14 in the axial direction, the top end of the coil spring 14 and the claw member 15 can move relative to the stopper 13 in the axial direction in the area on the root end side of the rod portion 12.

[0041] Furthermore, the tip of the coil spring 14 and the claw member 15 can be deformed in a direction inclined with respect to the axial direction of the coil spring 14 and can move in the inclined direction (can change their posture).

[0042] The claw member 15 is provided with a claw 15t that engages with the teeth 10t of the disc member 10 on the side surface of the claw member 15 on the disc member 10. When the rod 12 moves, the claw 15t engages with the teeth 10t, so that the disc member 10 rotates.

[0043] In addition, the pawl 16 is held by the pawl fixing portion 17 provided on the main member 40 , and the pawl 16 prevents the disk member 10 (teeth 10 t ) from rotating in the reverse direction.

[0044] The role of basic structure When the user presses the push button 11, the contact sliding inclined portion 11a of the push button 11 rotates around the rotation axis 11s due to the pressing force (operation force), and the rod portion 12 moves toward the root end side in the axial direction via the contact ring 12a.

[0045] Figure 7The state corresponds to the state before the pressing operation. If the rod 12 starts to move from this state, the claw 15t of the claw member 15 will be attracted by the teeth 10t of the disk member 10, so that the disk member 10 rotates. When the push button 11 is located at the innermost part and the rod 12 moves to the root end, the pawl 16 is in contact with the tooth 10t of the disk member 10. Figure 7 The state is stopped compared to the tooth 10t one before. By such a single pressing operation of the push button 11, the disk member 10 rotates 30 degrees.

[0046] When the push button 11 is located at the innermost part and the rod 12 is moved to the root end, the coil spring 14 is compressed between the stopper 13 and the claw member 15 at the tip of the rod 12 and the main member 40. If the pressing force on the push button 11 is released in this state, the rod 12 and the push button 11 return to their original positions due to the restoring force of the coil spring 14 ( Figure 7 During this process, the claw 15t does not engage with the tooth 10t, and the disc member 10 does not reverse due to the existence of the ratchet 16. In addition, during this process, the claw member 15 can also move in the inclined direction (possessing a change of posture) due to deformation in the direction inclined relative to the axial direction of the coil spring 14, thereby effectively avoiding the resistance (interference) from the disc member 10. Furthermore, if the claw member 15 returns to its original position ( Figure 7 state), the restoring force of the coil spring 14 causes the tooth 10t next to the tooth introduced last time to engage with the tooth 10t next to the tooth introduced last time.

[0047] As described above, four communication holes 10h are evenly arranged at 90 degrees in the circumferential direction, and the back pressure chamber outflow holes 21c to 23c and the outflow holes 44 to 46 are evenly arranged at 120 degrees in the circumferential direction. Therefore, by rotating the disc member 10 by 30 degrees, the first water jetting mode in which the back pressure chamber outflow hole 21c is connected to the outflow hole 44 and the back pressure chamber outflow holes 22c and 23c are not connected to the outflow holes 45 and 46, the second water jetting mode in which the back pressure chamber outflow hole 22c is connected to the outflow hole 45 and the back pressure chamber outflow holes 21c and 23c are not connected to the outflow holes 44 and 46, and the third water jetting mode in which the back pressure chamber outflow hole 23c is connected to the outflow hole 46 and the back pressure chamber outflow holes 21c and 22c are not connected to the outflow holes 44 and 45.

[0048] Figure 4 and Figure 5 The state on the right side is an example of a state where the back pressure chamber outflow hole is not connected to the outflow hole, that is, an example of a state where the pilot hole of the corresponding diaphragm valve is not open. Figure 4 and Figure 5In the state on the right side of the back pressure chamber, the back pressure chamber outflow holes 22c, 23c and the outflow holes 45, 46 are blocked by the disk member 10. On the other hand, the back pressure chamber inflow holes 22d, 23d ( Figure 4 ) or the gaps between the tubular portions 32, 33 and the back pressure chamber outflow holes 22c, 23c function as back pressure chamber inflow holes ( Figure 5 ), the water pressure in the storage chamber 5 becomes equal to the water pressure in the back pressure chambers 23b and 23c. Thus, the diaphragm valves 22 and 23 are in a blocked state due to the biasing force of the coil spring (not shown).

[0049] on the other hand, Figure 4 and Figure 5 The state on the left side is an example of a state where the outflow hole of the back pressure chamber is connected to the outflow hole, that is, an example of a state where the pilot hole of the corresponding diaphragm valve is opened. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the state on the left side of the back pressure chamber, the back pressure chamber outflow hole 21c and the outflow hole 44 are connected (opened) by the communication hole 10h of the disc member 10. In this state, water flows out from the back pressure chamber 21b through the back pressure chamber outflow hole 21c and the outflow hole 44, so the water pressure in the storage chamber 5 is greater than the water pressure in the back pressure chamber 21b. Although the diaphragm valve 21 is urged by the coil spring (not shown), it is still in an open state.

[0050] As described above, according to the shower device 1 of this embodiment, the three diaphragm valves 21 to 23 control the communication or interruption between the three flow paths and the storage chamber 5 , so that the operation force for switching the flow paths can be significantly reduced.

[0051] Three water jetting channels in this embodiment The three valve seats 41 to 43 opened and closed by the three diaphragm valves 21 to 23 are connected to the secondary side flow path member 4 (such as Figure 4 As shown, the first water jetting flow path, the second water jetting flow path and the third water jetting flow path are formed by four overlapping roughly circular plate-shaped main components 40, 47, 48, 49 and three water mist flow path forming components 56 that are arc-shaped when viewed from above.

[0052] Figure 8 Schematic diagram for explaining the three water jetting channels that are switched. Figure 7 ) Figure 8 The opening of the central region (the region shown in hatching) of the first jetting water flow path is connected to the first jetting water flow path, and the first jetting water flow path reaches the opening P for rectifying the jetting water (see Figure 1 ). Valve seat 43 (refer to Figure 7 ) by being adjacent to Figure 8The opening of the central region of the substantially inverted C-shaped region (the region shown in dashed cross-section) when viewed from above is connected to the third water jetting flow path, which reaches the circular spray nozzle C and the rectangular fluid element nozzle R (refer to Figure 1 ). Valve seat 42 (refer to Figure 7 ) Figure 8 The opening of the annular region (the region shown in the pear skin pattern) adjacent to the substantially inverted C-shaped region is connected to the second water jetting flow path, and the second water jetting flow path reaches the water mist nozzle M (refer to Figure 1 ).

[0053] like Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, the opening P (φ16.1) for rectifying the water discharge is composed of a group of openings on the lower end side of the rectifying member 57 located in the center of the water discharge surface side, and the total area of ​​the opening P is 203.6 mm 2 . On the circumference of φ55, 18 water mist nozzles M (φ1.05) for spraying water are arranged at roughly equal intervals, with a total area of ​​15.6mm 2 . On the circumference of φ37 on the inner side of the water mist nozzle M, 12 circular spray nozzles C (first circle) are arranged, of which 3 on the lower side (on the push button side) are φ0.8 respectively, and the remaining 9 are φ0.6 respectively. On the same circumference as the circular spray nozzle C on the inner side of the water mist nozzle M, 4 rectangular fluid element nozzles R (1mm×3mm) are arranged. Moreover, on the circumference of φ71 on the outer side of the water mist nozzle M, 16 circular spray nozzles C (second circle) are arranged, of which φ0.5 respectively. On the circumference of φ87 closer to the outside than the 16 circular spray nozzles C (second circle) of φ0.5, 20 circular spray nozzles C (third circle) are also arranged, of which 4 on the lower side (on the push button side) are φ1.25, and the remaining 16 are φ0.5. The total area of ​​these circular spray nozzles C and rectangular fluid element nozzles R is 27.2mm 2 .

[0054] Moreover, under the water discharge pressure of 0.1MPa, the rectified water discharge volume from the opening P is 5.5L / min, the mist water discharge volume from the 18 water mist nozzles M is 3.9L / min, the particle size is about 410μm, the flow rate is about 2.9m / s, and the water discharge volume from the 52 spray nozzles C and the fluid element nozzles R is 5.9L / min, the particle size is about 1500μm, and the flow rate is about 3.3m / s. Of course, these are just simple examples, and the rectified water discharge can be continuous water discharge that does not granulate over a certain distance (for example, at least 10cm) under the water discharge volume condition of 1.0L / min (the water discharged from the ordinary spray nozzles or fluid element nozzles will granulate at about 1cm). In addition, the third water discharge which is not mist water discharge and rectifying water discharge does not necessarily need to include water discharge from the fluid element nozzle, but can be the commonly used conventional spray water discharge or air mixing type spray water discharge, or can be water discharge only from the fluid element nozzle.

[0055] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The spray nozzle C and the fluid element nozzle R are composed of the main component 48, which is made of rubber, has a low thermal conductivity and is not easy to dissipate heat. In addition, the water mist nozzle M is composed of the main component 47, and the main component 47 and the rectifying component 57 are made of resin, which have a higher thermal conductivity than the main component 48.

[0056] Details of the second water jetting flow path (water mist flow path) in this embodiment Fig. 9 1 is a sectional perspective view showing a cross section passing through the center lines of each of a pair of adjacent water mist nozzles M. Fig.10 The main component 47 of the water mist nozzle M corresponds to Fig. 9 See the sectional view of Figures 8 to 10 , the 18 water mist nozzles M of this embodiment are arranged in 3 groups of 6 each, and each group includes 3 pairs of water mist nozzles M. Also, refer to Figure 4 A water mist flow path forming component 56 is arranged in each group.

[0057] and, Fig.11 is a longitudinal sectional view of the water mist nozzle M in the diameter direction section of the shower device 1, Fig.12 is corresponding to Fig.11 A sectional view of a Figures 8 to 12 As shown, by Figure 8The hot water or cold water flowing through the opening of the annular region (the region shown in the figure in the shape of pear skin) flows downward in the gap (guide flow path) between the water mist flow path forming member 56 and the main member 47, and reaches the flow-assisting flow path 51. The flow-assisting flow path 51 is a straight flow path extending in a plane substantially perpendicular to the water spouting direction of the water mist nozzle M and slightly inclined with respect to the tangential direction of the circumferential direction (see in particular Figure 8 , Figure 8 The illustration of the water mist flow path forming component 56 is omitted).

[0058] Reference Figure 8 The right end of the flow-assisting flow path 51 as viewed from above is smoothly connected to the end of the swirl chamber 53, which is a roughly cylindrical space, on the radial outside of the shower device, through the small hole 52. With 180° rotational symmetry, the left end of the flow-assisting flow path 51 as viewed from above is smoothly connected to the end of the swirl chamber 53, which is a roughly cylindrical space, on the radial inside of the shower device, through the small hole 52.

[0059] Moreover, refer to Figures 9 to 12 A water jet hole 55 (water mist nozzle M) is provided at the lower side of each swirl chamber 53 through the flat-top conical chamber 54. Thus, the water jet hole 55 (water mist nozzle M) is connected to the left and right sides of one flow-assisting channel 51 to form a pair of water mist nozzles M.

[0060] In addition, refer to Figures 9 to 12 The upper side of the swirl chamber 53 is divided by the water mist flow path forming member 56, while the flow-assisting flow path 51, the small hole 52, the swirl chamber 53, the flat-headed conical chamber 54 and the water discharge hole 55 (water mist nozzle M) are divided by the main member 47. The water mist flow path forming member 56 is made of soft resin, and its large-diameter bulging portion 56a is pressed into the corresponding fitting hole 47a of the main member 47, thereby forming the swirl chamber 53 watertightly.

[0061] Through the above structure, the hot water or cold water flowing from the guide flow path into the flow-aiding flow path 51 reaches the vortex chamber 53 through the small hole 52 after flowing through the flow-aiding flow path 51, and flows toward the water discharge hole 55 while swirling inside the vortex chamber 53 and the flat-headed conical chamber 54, and is discharged from the water discharge hole 55 (water mist nozzle M) in the form of mist.

[0062] An example of specific dimensions is that the width of the small hole 52 (the width observed from the extension direction of the flow-aiding flow path 51) is 1.1m, the height of the small hole 52 is 1.2m, the diameter of the vortex chamber 53 is 3.3mm, the height of the vortex chamber 53 is 1.5mm, the height of the flat-headed conical chamber 54 is 1.5mm, the height (length) of the water spouting hole 55 is 0.5mm, and the diameter of the water spouting hole 55 is 1.05mm.

[0063] The layout (position, shape, size, etc.) of the guide flow path is configured so that hot water or cold water can be evenly (symmetrically) supplied to a pair of water discharge holes 55 (water mist nozzles M) through the flow-assisting flow path 51 (see Fig.13 ). Specifically, the guide flow path of the present embodiment is arranged so as to be located between a pair of water ejection holes 55 (water mist nozzles M) when viewed from above.

[0064] In this embodiment, a water mist flow path forming member 56 (see FIG. 1 ) having an arc shape when viewed from above is arranged for one group (six) of water spouting holes 55 (water mist nozzles M) consisting of three pairs of water spouting holes 55 (water mist nozzles M). Figure 4 ). In addition, as a whole, three water mist flow path forming members 56 (see FIG. 5 ) are arranged in a circular arc shape when viewed from above with respect to the three groups of water jet holes 55 (water mist nozzles M). Figure 4 ).

[0065] With the above layout, the radial length occupied by the second water jetting flow path (water mist flow path) of this embodiment is very compact (specifically, Figure 8 The inner diameter of the pear-skin-shaped area is φ52 mm, and the outer diameter is φ58 mm). As a result, the design freedom of the first water jetting flow path (rectifying flow path) and the third water jetting flow path (spray nozzle and fluid element nozzle flow path) is improved (especially, as mentioned above, the spray nozzles C and fluid element nozzles R can be dispersed in a relatively large area).

[0066] Features of the switching operation in this embodiment As described above, in the present embodiment, by a single press operation of the push button 11 (an example of a switching operation unit), the disk member 10 rotates 30 degrees, thereby enabling the first water spouting mode (performing rectification water spouting), the second water spouting mode (performing mist water spouting) and the third water spouting mode (performing spray water spouting and fluid element water spouting) to be switched in this order.

[0067] That is, when switching from the first jetting mode to the second jetting mode, the mode does not pass through the third jetting mode. When switching from the second jetting mode to the first jetting mode, the mode always passes through the third jetting mode.

[0068] Such a feature can also be realized by other types of switching operation parts. For example, by rotating a part of the secondary side flow path member 4 with the lever operation part, it is configured that even in the form of switching between the first water jetting mode, the second water jetting mode and the third water jetting mode, when switching from the second water jetting mode to the first water jetting mode, it is always through the third water jetting mode. Or, even in the form of providing start buttons corresponding to the first water jetting mode, the second water jetting mode and the third water jetting mode, respectively, it can be configured that the start button corresponding to the first water jetting mode cannot be operated during the implementation of the second water jetting mode (or the operation is invalidated).

[0069] Features of the water impingement range in this embodiment Fig.14 This is a schematic diagram showing the relative positional relationship between the opening P for straight (continuous) water jetting and the mist nozzle M for mist water jetting in the present embodiment. Fig.14 (a) is a schematic diagram viewed from the side. Fig.14 (b) is a schematic diagram viewed from above.

[0070] like Fig.14 As shown, in the present embodiment, predetermined second water jetting areas MF (areas illustrated in the figure in a pear skin pattern) through which mist water jetting from two water mist nozzles M located at approximately opposite positions passes overlap with a predetermined first water jetting area PF (areas illustrated in the figure in a cross-section line) through which rectified water jetting from the opening P passes.

[0071] In addition, the region of each second jetting region MF that overlaps the first jetting region PF starts (is generated) at a position that is 3 cm away from the opening P of the first jetting flow channel.

[0072] Moreover, as from Fig.14 As the above description has made clear, in the present embodiment, each predetermined second water jetting area MF (the area illustrated in the pear skin pattern) through which the mist water jetting from all 18 water mist nozzles M passes overlaps with the predetermined first water jetting area PF (the area illustrated in the cross-section line) through which the rectified water jetting from the opening P passes.

[0073] Furthermore, each second jetting region MF may have a so-called hollow cone shape or a perfect cone shape.

[0074] Effects of this embodiment According to the shower device 1 of this embodiment, when switching from the mist water jetting mode (the second water jetting mode) to the rectified water jetting mode (the first water jetting mode), it is always through the water jetting mode (the third water jetting mode) from the fluid element nozzle, so that it is more reliably prevented from receiving rectified water jetting at the same temperature setting (without performing an operation to change the temperature setting) just after receiving the mist water jetting at a certain temperature setting. Therefore, the unpleasant feeling of "very hot water" is effectively prevented.

[0075] In addition, according to the shower device 1 of the present embodiment, the rectifying member 57 (an example of the first main member) forming the opening P of the first water jetting flow path is made of resin, and the main member 48 (an example of the third main member) forming the opening of the third opening, i.e., the shower nozzle C and the fluid element nozzle R, is made of rubber, and the thermal conductivity of the latter is lower than that of the former. As a result, since it is difficult to dissipate the heat of the hot water through the main member 48, the temperature drop of the water jetted from the shower nozzle C and the fluid element nozzle R can be suppressed. Therefore, when receiving the rectified water jetting at the same temperature setting (without changing the temperature setting) just after receiving the water jetting from the fluid element nozzle, the temperature difference between the two is small, and the unpleasant feeling of "very hot water" can be suppressed.

[0076] In addition, according to the shower device 1 of this embodiment, the opening P is located approximately in the center of the water spouting surface, the water mist nozzles M are dispersedly arranged in the circumferential direction of the approximately same circle surrounding the opening P, and the spray nozzles C and the fluid element nozzles R surround the opening P and are dispersedly arranged in the circumferential direction of the approximately same circle located inside the water mist nozzles M (the first circle), and are dispersedly arranged in the circumferential direction of the approximately same circle located outside the water mist nozzles M (the second circle and the third circle). With such a layout, the spray nozzles C and the fluid element nozzles R are dispersedly arranged in a large area within the water spouting surface. Therefore, the comfort of receiving the water spouted from the spray nozzles C and the fluid element nozzles R is extremely good.

[0077] In addition, according to the shower device 1 of this embodiment, the total area (15.6 mm 2 ) is smaller than the total area of ​​the opening P of the first jetting flow path (203.6 mm 2 ). Thus, even when receiving the mist-like hot water discharge from the water mist nozzle M with a small total area, the density of the water droplets is reduced, so that even when washing the face, the feeling of dyspnea is effectively suppressed. In addition, the discharge speed of the water droplets is also reduced for the mist-like hot water discharge from the water mist nozzle M with a small total area, so that the skin touch (irritation to the skin) can be alleviated even when washing the face.

[0078] In addition, according to the shower device 1 of this embodiment, the push button 11 as the switching operation unit is provided on the grip portion. This can shorten the time required for the switching operation and allow the body to receive the sprayed water before the body temperature warmed by the continuous sprayed water drops.

[0079] Furthermore, the present invention includes the following features (inventions). Feature 1 A shower device is a switchable shower device having a plurality of water jetting modes including a first water jetting mode, a second water jetting mode, and a third water jetting mode, wherein: It has: a gripping portion for a user to hold; a first water jetting flow path for jetting hot water or cold water in the first water jetting mode; a second water jetting flow path for jetting hot water or cold water in the second water jetting mode; a third water jetting flow path for jetting hot water or cold water in the third water jetting mode; a switching operation unit for switching the first water jetting mode, the second water jetting mode, and the third water jetting mode; and a switching member for switching the water-conducting state to the first water-conducting flow path, the water-conducting state to the second water-conducting flow path, and the water-conducting state to the third water-conducting flow path in conjunction with the operation of the switching operation portion, The jetted water from the first jetting water flow path is continuous jetted water that does not granulate over a certain distance or more. The jetted water from the second jetting water flow path is jetted water in a mist form. The jetted water from the third jetting water flow path is jetted water different from the continuous jetted water that does not granulate for a period of time longer than the predetermined distance, and is also jetted water different from the mist-like jetted water. The switching operation unit is configured to always switch from the second jetting mode to the first jetting mode via the third jetting mode. Feature 2 The shower device according to feature 1 is characterized in that the water jetted from the third water jetting flow path is water jetted from a fluid element nozzle. Feature 3 The shower device according to feature 1 or 2, wherein: The first opening of the first water jetting channel is formed by a first main member. The second opening of the second jetting water flow path is formed by a second main member. The third opening of the third water jetting channel is formed by a third main component. The thermal conductivity of the third main member is lower than the thermal conductivity of the first main member. Feature 4 The shower device according to any one of features 1 to 3, wherein: The first opening is located approximately in the center of the water discharge surface. The second openings are dispersedly arranged in a circumferential direction of a substantially same circle surrounding the first opening. The third openings surround the first opening and are dispersedly arranged in a circumferential direction of substantially the same circle located inside the second opening, and are also dispersedly arranged in a circumferential direction of substantially the same circle located outside the second opening.

Claims

1. A shower device having a plurality of switchable water jetting modes including a first water jetting mode, a second water jetting mode, and a third water jetting mode, wherein: It has: a gripping portion for a user to hold; a first water jetting flow path for jetting hot water or cold water in the first water jetting mode; a second water jetting flow path for jetting hot water or cold water in the second water jetting mode; a third water jetting flow path for jetting hot water or cold water in the third water jetting mode; a switching operation unit for switching the first water jetting mode, the second water jetting mode, and the third water jetting mode; and a switching member for switching the water-conducting state to the first water-conducting flow path, the water-conducting state to the second water-conducting flow path, and the water-conducting state to the third water-conducting flow path in conjunction with the operation of the switching operation portion, The jetted water from the first jetting water flow path is continuous jetted water that does not granulate over a certain distance or more. The jetted water from the second jetting water flow path is jetted water in a mist form. The jetted water from the third jetting water flow path is jetted water different from the continuous jetted water that does not granulate for a period of time longer than the predetermined distance, and is also jetted water different from the mist-like jetted water. The switching operation unit is configured to always switch from the second jetting mode to the first jetting mode via the third jetting mode.

2. The shower device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The water ejected from the third water ejection flow path is water ejected from the fluid element nozzle.

3. The shower device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The first opening of the first water jetting channel is formed by a first main member. The second opening of the second jetting water flow path is formed by a second main member. The third opening of the third water jetting channel is formed by a third main component. The thermal conductivity of the third main member is lower than the thermal conductivity of the first main member.

4. The shower device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The first opening is located approximately in the center of the water discharge surface. The second openings are dispersedly arranged in a circumferential direction of a substantially same circle surrounding the first opening. The third openings surround the first opening and are dispersedly arranged in a circumferential direction of substantially the same circle located inside the second opening, and are also dispersedly arranged in a circumferential direction of substantially the same circle located outside the second opening.

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