Water hydrant device

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to suppress discomfort to a user due to driving sound of an actuator for controlling a valve body. A water hydrant device according to an embodiment includes a water discharge unit, a hot and cold water mixing unit, an actuator, a control device, and an operation unit. The cold / hot water mixing unit has a main body case, a temperature-sensitive biasing unit, and a valve body. When the control device receives the information of the set temperature, the control device drives the actuator to a predetermined position corresponding to the set temperature or drives the actuator by a predetermined drive amount corresponding to the set temperature, thereby adjusting the position of the valve body in the axial direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to a faucet device. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a water faucet device that performs feedback control to adjust the spouting water temperature (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-113579

[0006] Conventional temperature control based on feedback control may cause the actuator to be driven to control the valve even when the set temperature of the discharged water is constant. This can cause discomfort to the user due to the driving sound of the actuator. Summary of the Invention

[0007] One aspect of the embodiment has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a faucet device capable of suppressing a user's discomfort caused by the driving sound of an actuator for controlling a valve body.

[0008] A faucet device according to one embodiment includes: a water spouting portion for spouting water into a bathroom; a hot and cold water mixing portion for mixing hot and cold water to be supplied to the water spouting portion; an actuator for operating the hot and cold water mixing portion; a control device for controlling the driving of the actuator; and an operation portion for transmitting set temperature information to the control device in response to a user's operation. The hot and cold water mixing portion includes: a main body housing having a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet, and a mixed hot and cold water outlet; a temperature-sensing force-applying portion whose applying force varies according to the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water and is capable of adjusting the openings of the hot and cold water inlets; and a valve body assembled to slide axially within the main body housing and capable of adjusting the openings of the hot and cold water inlets. Upon receiving the set temperature information, the control device drives the actuator to a predetermined position corresponding to the set temperature or drives the actuator by a predetermined driving amount corresponding to the set temperature, thereby adjusting the axial position of the valve body.

[0009] Because the water faucet device adjusts temperature using the temperature-sensing force-applying unit, the actuator that controls the valve body is not actuated except when the set temperature is being changed. Consequently, the water faucet device can minimize user discomfort caused by the actuator's driving sound. Furthermore, if feedback control based on the results of the temperature adjustment is performed while the temperature-sensing force-applying unit is performing autonomous temperature adjustment, this could hinder autonomous temperature adjustment, leading to unstable water discharge temperature. The temperature adjustment control according to the present invention fully utilizes the autonomous temperature adjustment performance of the temperature-sensing force-applying unit.

[0010] Furthermore, the control device fixes the opening of the valve body after the set temperature is changed and before the set temperature is changed next.

[0011] The water faucet device can further suppress the discomfort caused by the driving sound of the actuator after the set temperature setting is changed and before the instruction for the next setting change arrives.

[0012] Furthermore, after the set temperature is changed and before the set temperature is changed next, the control device does not drive the actuator to change the opening of the valve body.

[0013] The water faucet device can further suppress the discomfort caused by the driving sound (operation sound) of the actuator after the setting temperature is changed and before the instruction for the next setting change arrives.

[0014] Furthermore, the actuator is a motor, and the control device turns off excitation of the motor after driving the motor to the predetermined position or driving the motor at the predetermined driving amount.

[0015] The water faucet device stops energizing the motor after the motor is driven, thereby suppressing an increase in power consumption and heating of the motor.

[0016] Furthermore, the motor is a stepping motor, and the stepping motor and the valve body are fixed in an aligned state.

[0017] In the water faucet device, the stepping motor and valve body are pre-aligned, so even without feedback control, water can be accurately discharged at the target set temperature. This improves the user experience of the water faucet device.

[0018] In addition, the faucet device is provided with a temperature sensor for sensing the water temperature, and the water spouting portion has a first water spouting portion and a second water spouting portion, wherein the second water spouting portion is arranged at a position lower than the first water spouting portion. When the water temperature sensed by the temperature sensor in the spouted water is above a specified temperature, the control device controls the spouting of water from the second water spouting portion.

[0019] In a water faucet device, when the temperature sensor detects a high temperature, the user can more easily recognize whether the water faucet device has malfunctioned or whether the temperature is temporarily unstable, compared to when the water supply is stopped. Furthermore, because the water faucet device discharges water from the second water spouting unit, which is located lower than the first water spouting unit, the user can be prevented from being splashed with a large amount of hot water from the water spouting unit when the temperature sensor detects a high temperature.

[0020] In addition, the faucet device is equipped with a temperature sensor for sensing water temperature. When the water temperature sensed by the temperature sensor in the discharged water is above a specified temperature, the control device operates the actuator in a manner that moves the valve body in a direction in which the opening of the hot water inlet becomes smaller.

[0021] In a water faucet device, when the temperature sensor detects a high temperature, the user can more easily determine whether the water faucet device has malfunctioned or whether the temperature is temporarily unstable, compared to when the water supply is stopped. Furthermore, because the water faucet device discharges water from the second water discharge unit, which is located lower than the first water discharge unit, the user can be prevented from being splashed with a large amount of hot water from the water discharge unit when the temperature sensor detects a high temperature.

[0022] Furthermore, when the operation unit is continuously operated within a predetermined time period so as to increase the set temperature, the set temperature is restricted from being changed to a predetermined temperature or higher.

[0023] When the user changes the set temperature, the water faucet device does not send a setting change signal from the operating unit to the control device to continuously operate the setting temperature to increase within a predetermined time, thereby preventing the set temperature from rising to an undesirable temperature. This improves the safety of the water faucet device.

[0024] In addition, the control device can execute the following calibration mode: adjusting the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined drive amount according to at least one of the set environment and product deviation, the actuator is a motor, and the calibration mode is executed by the control device driving the motor while spouting water from the water spouting part. In the calibration mode, the control device disconnects the excitation of the motor after driving the motor.

[0025] The water faucet device stops energizing the motor after driving the motor.

[0026] Effects of the Invention

[0027] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to suppress the user from feeling uncomfortable due to the driving sound of the actuator for controlling the valve body. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a bathroom unit equipped with a faucet device according to an embodiment.

[0029] Figure 2 It is a front view of the remote control of the embodiment.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing an outline of the water faucet device according to the embodiment.

[0031] Figure 4 It is a three-dimensional diagram of the faucet body.

[0032] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a mixing faucet unit.

[0033] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line VI-VI.

[0034] Figure 7 It is a side view of the spindle.

[0035] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 This is a view of the interior of the temperature control-side motor unit as viewed from the arrow VIII.

[0036] Figure 9 This is a flowchart showing the temperature control processing procedure.

[0037] Figure 10 This is a flowchart showing the processing procedures of the initialization process and the hot water supply temperature determination process in the calibration mode.

[0038] Figure 11 This is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of normal optimization processing in calibration mode.

[0039] Figure 12 This is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the temperature control table allocation process in the calibration mode.

[0040] Figure 13 This is a diagram for explaining the calculation of the distribution coefficient.

[0041] Figure 14 This is a diagram for explaining the calculation of the distribution coefficient.

[0042] Figure 15 This is a diagram for explaining the calculation of the distribution coefficient.

[0043] Description of Reference Numerals

[0044] 1: Water faucet device; 2: Water spouting part; 4: Remote control (operating part); 7: Control device; 10: Bathroom unit; 21: Faucet (water spouting part); 22: Hand-held shower (water spouting part); 23: Overhead shower (water spouting part); 24: Warm water column device (water spouting part); 25a: Waiting hot water spouting port (water spouting part); 49: Temperature sensor; 50: Mixing faucet unit; 51: Unit body; 62: Motor (actuator); 80: Hot and cold water mixing part; 81: Main body shell; 82: Temperature regulating valve (valve body); 83: Temperature sensing spring (temperature sensing force applying part); 87: First main body shell; 87a: Hot water inlet; 87b: Cold water inlet; 88: Second main body shell; 88a: Mixed hot and cold water outflow. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] like Figure 1 As shown, the faucet device 1 according to the embodiment is provided in a bathroom unit 10 , for example. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of bathroom unit 10 provided with faucet device 1 according to the embodiment.

[0046] In an orthogonal coordinate system, the positive direction of the X-axis is defined as "left," and the negative direction of the X-axis is defined as "right." Furthermore, in an orthogonal coordinate system, the positive direction of the Y-axis is defined as "backward," and the negative direction of the Y-axis is defined as "forward." Furthermore, in an orthogonal coordinate system, the positive direction of the Z-axis is defined as "upward," and the negative direction of the Z-axis is defined as "downward." Therefore, in the following description, the X-axis direction may be referred to as the left-right direction, the Y-axis direction may be referred to as the front-back direction, and the Z-axis direction may be referred to as the up-down direction.

[0047] Bathroom unit 10 includes a bathtub 11, a first unit 12, a second unit 13, and a faucet device 1. In the following description, cold water discharged from faucet device 1 and mixed cold and hot water discharged from faucet device 1 will be referred to as "cold and hot water" without distinguishing between cold water and mixed cold and hot water.

[0048] The first platform 12 is mounted on the wall 14a of the bathroom unit 10. It protrudes from the wall 14a into the bathroom. It is located above the bathroom floor 15 of the bathroom unit 10. The first platform 12 houses the faucet body 3 of the faucet device 1. A hot water standby outlet 25a is provided at the lower end of the first platform 12. The hot water standby outlet 25a is positioned so that both hot and cold water are dispensed downward.

[0049] Second stand 13 is mounted on wall portion 14a. Second stand 13 protrudes from wall portion 14a into the bathroom. Second stand 13 is positioned above first stand 12. For example, second stand 13 may extend above bathtub 11. It should be noted that second stand 13 does not necessarily need to extend above bathtub 11.

[0050] The second stand 13 houses a portion of the faucet device 1. Specifically, the second stand 13 houses a portion of the faucet 21 and a portion of the hand shower 22 of the faucet device 1. The spout 21a of the faucet 21 is exposed on the second stand 13. The spout 21a of the faucet 21 is positioned on the second stand 13 so that the direction of hot and cold water discharge is downward.

[0051] Furthermore, a shower hose 22 a of the hand shower 22 of the faucet device 1 is connected to the second station 13 . The shower hose 22 a is connected to a shower conduit housed in the second station 13 .

[0052] An overhead shower head 23 of the faucet device 1 and a warm water pillar 24 of the faucet device 1 are mounted on the ceiling 16 of the bathroom unit 10. The overhead shower head 23 and the warm water pillar 24 are integrally provided.

[0053] The overhead showerhead 23 dispenses hot and cold water over a wider range than the hand showerhead 22. For example, the overhead showerhead 23 is configured to spray the user's entire body with hot and cold water. The warm water column 24 concentrates and rectifies the hot and cold water into a single stream and dispenses it. In other words, the warm water column 24 rectifies and dispenses the hot and cold water in a continuous columnar stream.

[0054] A remote controller 4 (operating unit) of the faucet device 1 is mounted on the wall portion 14b of the bathroom unit 10. The remote controller 4 may be mounted on the wall portion 14a where the first unit 12 and the second unit 13 are mounted.

[0055] The remote controller 4 accepts various operations of the user on the faucet body 3. Specifically, the remote controller 4 accepts the setting operation of the temperature (set temperature) of the hot and cold water in the faucet body 3. The remote controller 4 accepts the setting operation of the flow rate of the hot and cold water in the faucet body 3. The remote controller 4 accepts the switching operation of the water spouting and water stopping of the hot and cold water. The remote controller 4 accepts the switching operation of the water spouting destination of the hot and cold water. The remote controller 4 has a sound output unit, and outputs sound. When the user performs an operation, the remote controller 4 sends the operation signal corresponding to each operation to the control device 7 of the faucet device 1 (see Figure 3 ).

[0056] like Figure 2 As shown, the remote controller 4 includes, for example, a temperature adjustment button 41 , a water volume adjustment button 42 , and a switching button 43 . Figure 2 It is a front view of the remote controller 4 according to the embodiment.

[0057] The temperature adjustment buttons 41 are used to adjust the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water in the faucet body 3. The temperature adjustment buttons 41 include a high temperature button 41a and a low temperature button 41b. The high temperature button 41a is used to increase the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water. The low temperature button 41b is used to decrease the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water. It should be noted that the remote control 4 displays the set temperature of the mixed hot and cold water on the first display 45a. When the high temperature button 41a or the low temperature button 41b is operated, the display on the first display 45a changes according to the operation of the respective buttons 41a and 41b.

[0058] It should be noted that the temperature of the mixed cold and hot water in the faucet body 3 can be adjusted within a predetermined temperature range. If the low temperature button 41b is operated to set the mixed cold and hot water temperature below the lowest temperature in the predetermined temperature range, the faucet body 3 does not mix the hot water with the cold water, and cold water is discharged.

[0059] The water volume adjustment buttons 42 are used to adjust the flow rate of hot and cold water discharged from the faucet device 1. The water volume adjustment buttons 42 include a water volume increase button 42a and a water volume decrease button 42b. The water volume increase button 42a is used to increase the flow rate of hot and cold water. The water volume decrease button 42b is used to decrease the flow rate of hot and cold water. It should be noted that the remote control 4 displays the set state of the hot and cold water volume on the second display unit 45b. When the water volume increase button 42a or the water volume decrease button 42b is operated, the display on the second display unit 45b changes according to the operation of the respective buttons 42a and 42b. It should be noted that the flow rate of hot and cold water discharged from the faucet device 1 can be adjusted within a specified flow rate range.

[0060] The switch button 43 is used to switch between dispensing and stopping hot and cold water in the faucet device 1. Furthermore, the switch button 43 is used to switch the destination of the hot and cold water dispensed by the faucet device 1. The switch button 43 includes a faucet button 43a, a hand shower button 43b, an overhead shower button 43c, and a warm water jet button 43d. Each button 43a-43d is switched between "on" and "off" by the user when pressed.

[0061] When the buttons 43a to 43d of the switching button 43 are in "off", hot or cold water is not dispensed. That is, the water faucet device 1 is in a water stop state.

[0062] When any of the switch buttons 43a to 43d is pressed from the "off" state and the pressed switch button 43 is turned "on", hot and cold water are dispensed.

[0063] When any one of the switching buttons 43 is in the “ON” state and the other switching button 43 is pressed, the switching button 43 that is in the “ON” state is changed, and the water spouting destination of the hot and cold water is switched.

[0064] For example, when hand shower button 43b is on, hot and cold water is dispensed from hand shower 22. If faucet button 43a is pressed in this state, hand shower button 43b switches to off, and faucet button 43a switches to on. This changes the destination of hot and cold water from hand shower 22 to faucet 21, and hot and cold water is dispensed from faucet 21.

[0065] When the switch button 43 in the "ON" state is pressed again, the pressed switch button 43 is turned "OFF", and the buttons 43a to 43d of the switch button 43 are turned "OFF", and the hot and cold water supply is stopped. In other words, the faucet device 1 changes from the water spouting state to the water stopping state.

[0066] It should be noted that the buttons 43a to 43d are arranged so that the user can recognize the "on" and "off" states. For example, the switch button 43 in the "on" state is lit, and the switch button 43 in the "off" state is unlit.

[0067] It should be noted that, while the water faucet device 1 is described here as an example, the device can dispense hot and cold water from the overhead showerhead 23, the warm water jet 24, the overhead showerhead 22, and the faucet 21, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the water faucet device 1 may also be configured without the overhead showerhead 23 and the warm water jet 24.

[0068] Next, refer to Figure 3 The outline of the water faucet device 1 according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 3 1 is a block diagram showing an overview of the water faucet device 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 3 In the figure, solid arrows represent the flow of hot and cold water, and dashed lines represent communication lines.

[0069] The water faucet device 1 includes a plurality of water spouting parts 2 , a faucet body 3 , a remote controller 4 , and a communication unit 5 .

[0070] The plurality of water spouting parts 2 include a faucet 21, a hand shower 22, a top shower 23, a warm water column 24, and a hot water spout 25a connected to a residual water discharge passage 25 (see Figure 1 ).

[0071] The faucet main body 3 includes a mixing faucet unit 50 , a water spout switching portion 30 , and a control device 7 .

[0072] The mixing faucet unit 50 includes a hot and cold water mixing section 80, a flow rate adjustment section 100, a temperature sensor 48, and a temperature sensor 49. Hot water is supplied to the hot and cold water mixing section 80 from the hot water supply source 37. Furthermore, cold water is supplied to the hot and cold water mixing section 80 from the cold water supply source 44. The temperature sensor 48 is located upstream of the hot and cold water mixing section 80 and senses the temperature (water temperature) of the hot water supplied from the hot water supply source 37. The temperature sensor 49 is located downstream of the hot and cold water mixing section 80 and senses the temperature (water temperature) of the hot and cold water discharged from the hot and cold water mixing section 80. A stopcock 38 is provided in the hot water supply path 39 between the hot and cold water mixing section 80 and the hot water supply source 37. Furthermore, a stopcock 45 is provided in the cold water supply path 46 between the hot and cold water mixing section 80 and the cold water supply source 44.

[0073] The hot and cold water mixing unit 80 mixes the hot water supplied from the hot water supply source 37 with the cold water supplied from the cold water supply source 44. Specifically, the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 switches whether to mix the hot water with the cold water. Furthermore, the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 adjusts the ratio of the hot water to the cold water, thereby adjusting the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water.

[0074] The hot and cold water mixing unit 80 includes a motor 62. The motor 62 is, for example, a stepping motor, and the rotational position (driving amount) of the motor 62 is controlled by the number of steps. In the hot and cold water mixing unit 80, the motor 62 is driven by the operation of the temperature adjustment button 41 of the remote controller 4, thereby driving the temperature control valve 82 (valve body, see Figure 6 ), thereby switching whether to mix hot water with cold water.

[0075] In addition, in the hot and cold water mixing unit 80, the motor 62 is driven according to the operation of the temperature adjustment button 41 of the remote controller 4, thereby driving the temperature adjustment valve 82 (see Figure 6 ), thereby adjusting the ratio of hot water to cold water. Furthermore, even when the temperature adjustment button 41 is not operated, for example, when the temperature of the hot water changes and thus the temperature of the mixed cold and hot water changes, the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 can adjust the ratio of the flow rate of hot water to the flow rate of cold water according to the temperature of the mixed cold and hot water, thereby automatically adjusting the temperature of the mixed cold and hot water.

[0076] The flow rate adjustment unit 100 allows cold and hot water to flow in from the cold and hot water mixing unit 80. When cold and hot water are discharged from the water discharge unit 2, the flow rate adjustment unit 100 adjusts the flow rate of the discharged cold and hot water.

[0077] The flow control unit 100 includes a motor 72. The motor 72 is, for example, a stepping motor, and the rotation position (driving amount) of the motor 62 is controlled by the number of steps. In the flow control unit 100, the motor 72 is driven by the operation of the water volume adjustment button 42 of the remote controller 4, thereby driving the flow control valve 102 (see Figure 6 ) to adjust the flow of hot and cold water.

[0078] The spouting switching unit 30 switches the spouting or stopping of hot and cold water flowing from the mixing faucet unit 50. Specifically, the spouting switching unit 30 switches the spouting or stopping of hot and cold water from the spouting unit 2. Furthermore, the spouting switching unit 30 switches the destination of the hot and cold water spout. The faucet device 1 switches the spouting or stopping of hot and cold water from the spouting unit 2 using the spouting switching unit 30, and adjusts the flow rate of the hot and cold water when spouting hot and cold water using the flow rate adjustment unit 100.

[0079] The jetting switching unit 30 includes a plurality of electromagnetic valves 31 to 35 . Specifically, the jetting switching unit 30 includes a first electromagnetic valve 31 , a second electromagnetic valve 32 , a third electromagnetic valve 33 , a fourth electromagnetic valve 34 , and a fifth electromagnetic valve 35 .

[0080] The first to fourth electromagnetic valves 31 to 34 are switched to “OFF” or “ON” in response to the operation of the switching button 43 .

[0081] When the first to fourth solenoid valves 31 to 34 are "closed," hot or cold water will not be dispensed from the faucet 21, hand shower 22, overhead shower 23, or warm water jet 24. When any of the first to fourth solenoid valves 31 to 34 is "open," hot or cold water will be dispensed from the faucet 21, hand shower 22, overhead shower 23, or warm water jet 24 corresponding to the solenoid valve that is "open."

[0082] The first solenoid valve 31 switches the flow of hot and cold water from the faucet 21. The second solenoid valve 32 switches the flow of hot and cold water from the hand shower 22. The third solenoid valve 33 switches the flow of hot and cold water from the overhead shower 23. The fourth solenoid valve 34 switches the flow of hot and cold water from the hot water jet 24.

[0083] For example, when the first electromagnetic valve 31 is “open” and the second to fourth electromagnetic valves 32 to 34 are “closed”, hot and cold water are discharged from the faucet 21 .

[0084] The fifth solenoid valve 35 switches between "off" and "on" depending on the water discharge mode selected by the remote control 4 or the operation of an external device 6 (e.g., a remote control located in the bathroom). The fifth solenoid valve 35 is used to drain residual water from the hose and piping of the hand shower 22 and other devices and is normally maintained in the "closed" position. Specifically, the fifth solenoid valve 35 is set to "open" when residual water is being processed. When the fifth solenoid valve 35 is "open," residual water is discharged from the hot water waiting outlet 25a via the residual water discharge path 25.

[0085] The control device 7 controls the motors 62 and 72 and the first to fourth solenoid valves 31 to 34 based on the operation of the faucet body 3 received through the remote controller 4. The control device 7 also controls the fifth solenoid valve 35 based on the operation of the remote controller 4 or the external device 6, for example.

[0086] Control device 7 is a controller. It includes, for example, a microcomputer including a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), and RAM (Random Access Memory), as well as various circuits. It should be noted that control device 7 may also include hardware such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0087] The communication unit 5 receives operation signals from the remote controller 4 and the external device 6 and transmits the received operation signals to the control device 7. The remote controller 4 and the external device 6 are connected to the communication unit 5 via wired communication or wireless communication. The control device 7 is connected to the communication unit 5 via wired communication or wireless communication.

[0088] Next, refer to Figure 4 The faucet main body 3 will be described. Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the faucet main body 3. The faucet main body includes a mixing faucet unit 50, a water spouting switching unit 30, and a control device 7 (see Figure 3 ) is provided with a flow path unit 9. The faucet body 3 is mounted on the wall portion 14a of the bathroom unit 10 via the flow path unit 9 (see Figure 1 ).

[0089] The flow path unit 9 is formed with a hot water supply path 39 (see Figure 3 ), so that the hot water supply source 37 (refer to Figure 3 ) supplied hot water flows into the mixing faucet unit 50; cold water supply path 46 (refer to Figure 3 ), so that the cold water supply source 44 (refer to Figure 3 ) supplied cold water flows into the mixing faucet unit 50; and the flow path, so that the cold and hot water flows from the mixing faucet unit 50 into each water spouting part 2. It should be noted that the flow path unit 9 is provided with a water spouting switching part 30. In addition, the flow path unit 9 is provided with a water stopper 38 and a water stopper 45 (see Figure 3 ) In addition, a residual water discharge flow path 25 is provided in the flow path unit 9.

[0090] In the faucet body 3, the flow path unit 9 is provided at the rear, and the mixing faucet unit 50 is provided in front of the flow path unit 9. Note that a portion of the flow path unit 9 is provided above the mixing faucet unit 50. Furthermore, a control box 7a housing the control device 7 is provided in front of the mixing faucet unit 50.

[0091] Next, refer to Figures 5 to 8 The mixing faucet unit 50 will be described in detail. Figure 5 It is a perspective view of the mixing faucet unit 50 . Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line VI-VI.

[0092] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the mixing faucet unit 50 includes a unit body 51, a temperature control motor 60, a flow control motor 70, a hot and cold water mixing unit 80, and a flow rate adjustment unit 100. The mixing faucet unit 50 has a water spout 52 on the unit body 51, and spouts hot and cold water from the spout 52.

[0093] The unit body 51 extends in the left-right direction. The hot and cold water mixing unit 80 and the flow rate adjustment unit 100 are inserted in the left-right direction into the unit body 51. That is, the insertion direction of the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 and the flow rate adjustment unit 100 coincides with the left-right direction.

[0094] On the left side of the unit main body 51, a hot water supply path 39 (see Figure 3 ) is connected to the hot water supply port 53. A hot water supply port 53 connected to the cold water supply path 46 (see Figure 3 ) is connected to the cold water supply port 54. The hot water supply port 53 and the cold water supply port 54 of the unit body 51 are formed adjacent to each other in the left-right direction.

[0095] The temperature control motor unit 60 includes a cover 61 and a motor 62, and is located at the left end of the unit body 51. The cover 61 is located at the left end of the unit body 51 via a spacer 55. The motor 62 is located inside the cover 61. The flow control motor unit 70 includes a cover 71 and a motor 72, and is located at the right end of the unit body 51. The cover 71 is located at the right end of the unit body 51 via a spacer 56. The motor 72 is located inside the cover 71.

[0096] Motor 62 is an actuator that operates the hot and cold water mixing unit 80. Motor 62 switches between mixing cold and hot water based on its rotational position (drive amount). Furthermore, when dispensing mixed hot and cold water, motor 62 sets the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water based on its rotational position (drive amount). Motor 72 adjusts the flow rate of the hot and cold water based on its rotational position (drive amount).

[0097] The hot and cold water mixing unit 80 includes a main body casing 81 , a temperature regulating valve 82 , a temperature-sensitive spring 83 (temperature-sensitive urging portion), a biasing spring 84 , a bushing 85 , and a main shaft 86 .

[0098] The main body housing 81 includes a first main body housing 87 and a second main body housing 88. A hot water inlet 87a, serving as the hot water inlet into the interior space of the main body housing 81, and a cold water inlet 87b, serving as the cold water inlet into the interior space, are formed on the peripheral wall of the first main body housing 87. A mixed hot and cold water outlet 88a is formed at the right end of the second main body housing 88. The hot water inlet 87a, the cold water inlet 87b, and the mixed hot and cold water outlet 88a are holes that connect the interior space of the main body housing 81 to the outside. The hot water inlet 87a and the cold water inlet 87b are formed in the middle portion of the main body housing 81 in the left-right direction, with the hot water inlet 87a located to the left of the cold water inlet 87b.

[0099] The outer peripheral space of the main body housing 81 is divided by O-rings 89a, 89b, and 89c as sealing members. Thus, the outer peripheral space of the main body housing 81 forms a hot water annular flow path 89 facing the hot water inlet 87a and a cold water annular flow path 90 facing the cold water inlet 87b.

[0100] A water spouting passage 91 is formed in the internal space of the main body housing 81 . The water spouting passage 91 is communicable with the water spouting port 52 via the mixed cold and hot water outlet 88 a and the flow regulating valve 102 .

[0101] The temperature-sensitive spring 83 is housed in the second main body case 88 and is provided in the water discharge passage 91. The temperature-sensitive spring 83 is a spring whose spring constant changes with temperature and is made of, for example, a shape memory alloy (SMA). The temperature-sensitive spring 83 biases the thermostatic valve 82 leftward.

[0102] The bias spring 84 is housed in the first main body case 87, which is located to the left of the second main body case 88. The bias spring 84 is provided in the water discharge passage 91. The bias spring 84 has a spring constant that is substantially constant with temperature. The bias spring 84 biases the thermostatic valve 82 rightward.

[0103] The thermostatic valve 82 is located inside the right side of the first main body housing 87. The thermostatic valve 82 is assembled so as to be freely slidable in the axial direction (left-right direction) of the first main body housing 87. The thermostatic valve 82 moves in the left-right direction based on the biasing force of the biasing spring 84 and the biasing force of the temperature-sensing spring 83, thereby adjusting the communication between the hot water annular flow path 89, the cold water annular flow path 90, and the discharge water flow path 91.

[0104] Specifically, the thermostatic valve 82 is maintained in a position where the biasing force of the biasing spring 84 and the biasing force of the temperature-sensing spring 83 are balanced. As the thermostatic valve 82 moves further to the right, the opening of the hot water inlet 87a increases, while the opening of the cold water inlet 87b decreases. Consequently, the amount of hot water supplied to the water discharge passage 91 increases, while the amount of cold water decreases, raising the temperature of the mixed cold and hot water. As the thermostatic valve 82 moves further to the left, the opening of the hot water inlet 87a decreases, while the opening of the cold water inlet 87b increases. Consequently, the amount of hot water supplied to the main body housing 81 decreases, while the amount of cold water increases, lowering the temperature of the mixed cold and hot water.

[0105] The bushing 85 abuts against the end of the bias spring 84 on the side opposite to the thermostatic valve 82 and is connected to the motor 62 via the main shaft 86. The main shaft 86 converts the rotational motion of the motor 62 into the left-right linear motion of the bushing 85. Therefore, the bushing 85 moves in the left-right direction in accordance with the rotation of the motor 62.

[0106] In the hot and cold water mixing unit 80, the bushing 85 moves left and right in accordance with the rotational position of the motor 62, changing the position of the left end of the bias spring 84. Consequently, the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 can adjust the position of the thermostatic valve 82 in accordance with the rotational position of the motor 62 to balance the applied force of the bias spring 84 with the applied force of the temperature-sensing spring 83. Consequently, when dispensing mixed hot and cold water, the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 can set the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water to a temperature corresponding to the rotational position of the motor 62.

[0107] Furthermore, when dispensing mixed hot and cold water, for example, if the temperature of the hot water changes, and thus the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water changes, the temperature-sensitive spring 83 expands and contracts according to the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water, causing the thermostatic valve 82 to move left and right, thereby automatically changing the equilibrium position of the thermostatic valve 82. This adjusts the amount of hot water and cold water flowing into the water dispensing passage 91, and automatically adjusts the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water.

[0108] The flow rate adjustment unit 100 includes a main shaft 101 and a flow regulating valve 102. One end of the main shaft 101 is connected to the motor 72, and the other end is connected to the flow regulating valve 102.

[0109] A flow regulating valve 102 is provided in the water discharge flow path 91. The flow regulating valve 102 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the motor 72. A communication port 102a is formed in the flow regulating valve 102. The flow regulating valve 102 is positioned opposite the water discharge port 52 of the unit body 51. The flow regulating valve 102 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the motor 72 to change the communication area between the communication port 102a and the water discharge port 52, thereby varying the flow rate.

[0110] Specifically, when the motor 72 is at the predetermined water stop position, the communication port 102a is not in communication with the water spouting port 52. Therefore, when the motor 72 is at the predetermined water stop position, hot or cold water is not spouted from the water spouting unit 2.

[0111] When the motor 72 rotates from the water stopping position toward the water spouting position, for example, the communication port 102a communicates with the water spouting port 52. As a result, hot and cold water are spouted from the water spouting port 52.

[0112] The flow regulating valve 102 can change the area of ​​the communication port 102a communicating with the water spout 52 according to the rotational position of the motor 72. That is, the flow regulating unit 100 can adjust the flow rate of the hot and cold water spouted from the water spout 2 according to the rotational position of the motor 72.

[0113] It should be noted that the control device 7 does not perform fine adjustments based on feedback control during the temperature and flow rate adjustment control of the faucet device 1. Furthermore, when transitioning from the water-discharging state to the water-stopping state, since the motors 62 and 72 are not reset to their origin positions (the position that serves as the control reference) each time the water stops, step loss can occur. As a result, the accumulated flow may cause the opening positions of the motors 62 and 72 to deviate. To prevent this, the control device 7 performs a process called "origin alignment" to return the motors 62 and 72 to their origin positions at regular intervals.

[0114] Here, refer to Figures 5 to 8 , the alignment of the motor 62 and the thermostatic valve 82 will be described. Figure 7 It is a side view of the main shaft 86. Figure 8 yes Figure 5 The interior of the temperature control-side motor unit 60 is viewed from an arrow VIII direction.

[0115] The motor 62 has a Figure 7 The spline 86a formed on the left end of the main shaft 86 shown and the tip 86b having a shape obtained by flattening a portion of the circumferential surface (so-called D-cut) fit into the recess, and the main shaft 86 is connected via the recess.

[0116] The spacer 55 has a convex portion on the surface that is joined to the unit body 51, and is engaged with the concave portion of the unit body 51 to perform positioning (limitation) in the rotation direction with the left and right directions as the axis. The cover 61 has a convex portion on the surface that is joined to the spacer 55, and is engaged with the concave portion of the spacer 55 to perform positioning in the rotation direction. Figure 8As shown, the motor 62 is positioned by being mounted on the cover 61 with screws 63, thereby positioning the motor in the rotational direction. The spindle 86 and the spacer 55 are assembled using an assembly receiving jig (jig), thereby restricting the rotational direction between the spindle 86 and the spacer 55.

[0117] In this manner, the unit body 51, spacer 55, cover 61, motor 62, and main shaft 86 are each rotationally positioned, so that the motor 62 and main shaft 86 rotate in the same direction. Therefore, in the mixing faucet unit 50, the main shaft 86 is connected to the recessed portion of the motor 62 up to the tip 86b, and the motor 62 is positioned to the thermostatic valve 82. In this manner, the motor 62 and thermostatic valve 82 are fixed in the aligned state.

[0118] In the water faucet device 1, the motor 62 and the temperature regulating valve 82 are pre-positioned, so even if feedback control is not performed during water spouting, water can be accurately spouted at the target set temperature.

[0119] Next, refer to Figure 9 The temperature adjustment control of the water faucet device 1 will be described. Figure 9 This is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of temperature adjustment control.

[0120] like Figure 9 As shown, the control device 7 receives a request for changing the temperature adjustment setting from the remote controller 4 (step S101).

[0121] Next, the control device 7 acquires the temperature adjustment setting value from the remote controller 4 (step S102 ). The temperature adjustment setting value is the value of the set temperature transmitted from the remote controller 4 .

[0122] Next, the control device 7 acquires the temperature adjustment correction value from the remote controller 4 (step S103). The temperature adjustment correction value is a value used to adjust the temperature setting value to a higher or lower temperature. The temperature adjustment correction value is preset by the remote controller 4.

[0123] Next, the control device 7 drives the motor 62 to a predetermined rotational position based on the temperature adjustment opening table (step S104), and then terminates the process. The temperature adjustment opening table is, for example, data that stores a correlation between the set temperature and the rotational position of the motor 62. For example, if the temperature adjustment set value is 40°C and the temperature adjustment correction value is +1°C, the control device 7 refers to the table value (rotational position) of 41°C in the temperature adjustment opening table.

[0124] As described above, in the faucet device 1, the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 includes: a main body housing 81 having a cold water inlet 87b, a hot water inlet 87a, and a mixed hot and cold water outlet 88a; a temperature-sensitive spring 83 whose biasing force varies according to the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water, and which adjusts the openings of the hot and cold water inlets 87a and 87b; and a thermostatic valve 82 slidably mounted in the main body housing 81 along the axial direction, which adjusts the openings of the hot and cold water inlets 87a and 87b. Upon receiving information about a set temperature, the control device 7 drives the motor 62 to a predetermined rotational position corresponding to the set temperature, or drives the motor 62 by a predetermined amount corresponding to the set temperature, thereby adjusting the axial position of the thermostatic valve 82.

[0125] Because the water faucet device 1 uses the temperature-sensing spring 83 to adjust the temperature, the motor 62 that controls the temperature-regulating valve 82 is not driven except when the set temperature is being changed. Consequently, the water faucet device 1 can minimize user discomfort caused by the driving sound of the motor 62. Furthermore, if feedback control based on the results of the temperature adjustment is performed while the temperature-sensing spring 83 is automatically adjusting the temperature, this automatic temperature adjustment may be hindered, resulting in unstable water discharge temperature. The temperature adjustment control according to the present invention fully utilizes the automatic temperature adjustment performance of the temperature-sensing spring 83.

[0126] Furthermore, according to the temperature control of the present invention, the water faucet device 1 does not need to constantly check the current output as in the feedback control. In addition, the plugging device 1 does not perform a process cycle, so it can be implemented with a simple process.

[0127] Furthermore, after the motor 62 is driven in step S104 and before the temperature adjustment setting change request is received in step S101, the control device 7 stops the power supply to the motor 62 and de-energizes the motor 62. Thus, after the motor 62 is driven in step S104 and before the temperature adjustment setting change request is received in step S101, the opening of the temperature adjustment valve 82 is fixed.

[0128] By performing such control, the water faucet device 1 can further suppress the discomfort caused by the driving sound of the motor 62 between the time when the set temperature is changed and the time when the next setting change instruction arrives. In addition, the water faucet device 1 can suppress an increase in power consumption and heat generation of the motor 62.

[0129] Alternatively, after a set temperature change is made and before the next set temperature change is made, the controller 7 does not drive (energize) the motor 62 to change the opening of the thermostatic valve 82. Thus, after the motor 62 is driven in step S104 and before a request to change the temperature setting is received in step S101, the opening of the thermostatic valve 82 is fixed.

[0130] By performing control in this manner, the water faucet device 1 can further suppress the discomfort caused by the driving sound (operation sound) of the motor 62 after the setting temperature is changed and before the next setting change instruction arrives.

[0131] Furthermore, the upper limit of the set temperature range (e.g., 45°C) is set in the remote control 4. Here, when the temperature sensor 49 detects a first predetermined temperature (e.g., 55°C) or higher for a predetermined time (e.g., 3 seconds), the control device 7 switches water spouting to a spouting unit 2 (the second spouting unit) located lower than the currently spouting spouting unit 2 (the first spouting unit). The second spouting unit can be located at a position lower than the first spouting unit, without particular limitation, but is preferably located at the lowest position, the waiting hot water spouting port 25a.

[0132] Furthermore, the control device 7 may also perform fault diagnosis on the faucet device 1 after switching water discharge to the second water discharge unit. Specifically, the control device 7 drives the motor 62 to a normal temperature range (or a low temperature range) and checks whether the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 49 has been moderated. For example, if the temperature sensor 49 detects a temperature below a second predetermined temperature (e.g., 42°C), the control device 7 performs origin alignment on the motor 62 and returns to normal control. If the temperature sensor 49 continues to detect a temperature exceeding the second predetermined temperature, the control device 7 stops water discharge from the second water discharge unit and displays an error message on the remote control 4 indicating that a high temperature has been detected.

[0133] Alternatively, when the temperature sensor 49 detects a temperature equal to or higher than a first predetermined temperature for a predetermined period of time, the controller 7 may operate the motor 62 to move the thermostatic valve 82 in a direction that reduces the opening of the hot water inlet 87a. This allows the controller 7 to lower the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water discharge unit 2.

[0134] By performing the control described above, in faucet device 1, when temperature sensor 48 detects a high temperature, the user can more easily determine whether faucet device 1 has malfunctioned or whether the temperature is temporarily unstable, compared to when water is stopped. Furthermore, because faucet device 1 discharges water from the second spouting unit, which is located lower than the first spouting unit, this prevents the user from being splashed with a large amount of hot water from spouting unit 2 when temperature sensor 48 detects a high temperature.

[0135] Furthermore, if the remote controller 4 is operated continuously within a predetermined time to increase the set temperature, the limit set temperature is changed to a third predetermined temperature (e.g., 42° C.) or higher. For example, the continuous operation is an operation of continuously pressing a button or an operation of holding the button (long press operation).

[0136] For example, if the user continuously presses the high temperature button 41a within a predetermined time, the remote controller 4 will disable the operation (e.g., the operation of increasing the temperature from 42°C to 43°C) when the set temperature is changed to the third predetermined temperature. Thereafter, if the user presses the high temperature button 41a again, the operation is enabled.

[0137] For example, if the user continues pressing the high temperature button 41a for a specified period of time, the remote controller 4 disables the operation (e.g., increasing the temperature from 42°C to 43°C) when the set temperature is changed to the third specified temperature. Furthermore, if the user temporarily stops pressing the high temperature button 41a and then resumes pressing the button 41a, the remote controller 4 enables the set temperature to be changed to a temperature higher than the third specified temperature. It should be noted that the remote controller 4 may also output a sound to notify the user of the invalidation of the operation to increase the set temperature.

[0138] By performing the control described above, when the user changes the set temperature, the water faucet device 1 does not send a setting change signal from the remote controller 4 to the control device 7 for continuous operation within a predetermined time, thereby preventing the set temperature from rising to an undesired temperature. Thus, the water faucet device 1 can improve safety.

[0139] In addition, the control device 7 can execute a calibration mode. The calibration mode is a mode in which a predetermined rotational position or a predetermined drive amount setting is adjusted according to at least one of the environment in which the faucet device 1 is installed and product deviations. In the calibration mode, the control device 7 sets, for example, a plurality of target temperatures and performs a process for making the spouted water temperature consistent with the target temperature for each target temperature. In this process, the control device 7 drives the motor 62 so that the spouted water temperature becomes the target temperature while spouting water from the spouting portion 2 (for example, the hot water spouting port 25a), and searches for the rotational position or drive amount of the motor 62 for each target temperature. The control device 7 can adjust the setting of the predetermined rotational position or the predetermined drive amount based on the rotational position or drive amount of the motor 62 that has been found.

[0140] In the calibration mode, the control device 7 stops the power supply to the motor 62 and turns off the excitation before the next drive of the motor 62. Thus, the water faucet device 1 can suppress an increase in power consumption and heat generation of the motor 62 in the calibration mode.

[0141] Next, refer to Figures 10 to 15 The calibration mode is explained. Figure 10 This is a flowchart showing the processing procedures of the initialization process and the hot water supply temperature determination process in the calibration mode. Figure 11 This is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of normal optimization processing in calibration mode. Figure 12 This is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the temperature control table allocation process in the calibration mode. Figures 13 to 15 This is a diagram for explaining the calculation of the distribution coefficient.

[0142] It should be noted that, in addition to the aforementioned "calibration mode," the control device 7 can also execute a "water discharge mode." In the "water discharge mode," upon receiving temperature setting information from the remote controller 4, the motor 62 is driven to a predetermined rotational position corresponding to the temperature setting, or driven at a predetermined drive amount corresponding to the temperature setting, thereby adjusting the axial position of the thermostatic valve 82.

[0143] The processing procedure of the temperature adjustment control in the "water discharge mode" is the same as the processing from step S101 to step S104 described above.

[0144] Next, the "calibration mode" will be described in detail. The "calibration mode" is executed by the user's operation of the remote control 4. Specifically, when the user simultaneously presses and holds the low temperature button 41b and the water volume increase button 42a of the remote control 4 for three seconds and selects "calibration" from the transition setting screen, the first display unit 45a or the second display unit 45b displays whether the "calibration mode" needs to be executed. Then, when the user selects "Execute calibration mode" in the remote control 4, the calibration mode is executed. In addition, during the execution of the calibration mode, the remote control 4 displays "Calibration mode is being executed" on the first display unit 45a or the second display unit 45b. The faucet device 1 can perform calibration by the remote control 4 used in normal water spouting operations, so there is no need for a dedicated setting remote control. It should be noted that it can also be set that during the execution of the calibration mode, the user can temporarily interrupt or cancel the execution of the calibration mode by operating the remote control 4.

[0145] In the "calibration mode", first, an initialization process (steps S201 to S204) and a hot water supply temperature determination process (steps S205 to S209) are performed.

[0146] like Figure 10 As shown, the control device 7 performs origin alignment on motors 62 and 72 and opens the fifth solenoid valve 35 (step S201). By opening the fifth solenoid valve 35, the faucet device 1 dispenses water from the hot water outlet 25a, simultaneously performing calibration. The control device 7 drives the motor 62 while confirming the actual water dispensing environment, thereby improving calibration accuracy.

[0147] Next, the control device 7 drives the motor 62 so as to reach a first predetermined temperature (step S202). For example, the first predetermined temperature is set to 42 degrees Celsius.

[0148] Next, the control device 7 determines whether a first predetermined time has passed after the motor 62 is driven (step S203). For example, the first predetermined time is set to 5 minutes.

[0149] If it is determined that the first predetermined time has elapsed after the motor 62 is driven (step S203: YES), the controller 7 ends the calibration process. In this case, the controller 7 ends the process without updating the temperature adjustment opening table.

[0150] If it is determined that the first predetermined time has not elapsed since the motor 62 was driven (step S203: No), the control device 7 determines whether the temperature of the hot water sensed by the temperature sensor 48 (hot water temperature) is greater than a second predetermined temperature (step S204). For example, the second predetermined temperature is set to 32°C. The purpose of the determination in steps S203 and S204 is to determine whether the power supply of the hot water supply device serving as the hot water supply source 37 is on.

[0151] When it is determined that the temperature of the hot water detected by the temperature sensor 48 is equal to or lower than the second predetermined temperature (step S204 : No), the control device 7 returns to step S203 .

[0152] If the temperature of the hot water detected by the temperature sensor 48 is determined to be greater than the second predetermined temperature (step S204: YES), the control device 7 determines whether the hot water supply temperature is stable at or above the third predetermined temperature (step S205). For example, the control device 7 can determine whether the hot water supply temperature is stable based on the fact that the temperature of the hot water detected by the temperature sensor 48 falls within a predetermined range for a certain period of time.

[0153] When it is determined that the hot water supply temperature is stable at or above the third predetermined temperature (step S205: Yes), the control device 7 performs origin alignment of the motor 62 (step S206), and then proceeds to step S207. Figure 11 As shown in the normal optimization process. In this way, the control device 7 starts adjusting the setting of the rotation position of the motor 62 after the hot water supply temperature is stabilized. The faucet device 1 can suppress the flow path unit 9 (refer to Figure 4 ) is configured to include the heat absorption of the cold casting in the case of casting, the influence of the start-up of the hot water supplier, and accurately perform temperature control during calibration. As a result, the control device 7 can improve the accuracy of calibration.

[0154] If the hot water supply temperature is determined to be not stable above the third predetermined temperature (step S205: No), the control device 7 determines that the hot water supply temperature is below the appropriate hot water supply temperature and assigns a fixed table to the temperature adjustment table (step S207). The fixed table is pre-set based on evaluation data under predetermined conditions (for example, a water temperature of 15°C in the cold water supply line 46, a water temperature of 40°C in the hot water supply line 39, and a pressure of 0.2 MPa). Thus, the control device 7 uses a dedicated table for control when the hot water supply temperature falls below the third predetermined temperature. This allows the faucet device 1 to confirm whether the hot water supply temperature is appropriate and, depending on the situation, to display the appropriate temperature on the remote control 4, thereby notifying the user. The faucet device 1 can prevent the dispensing of lukewarm water when the hot water supply temperature falls below the third predetermined temperature. This prevents a reduction in user convenience.

[0155] Next, the control device 7 performs origin alignment of the motor 62 (step S208 ).

[0156] Next, the controller 7 drives the motors 62 and 72 to their default positions (step S209), and the calibration process ends. For example, the default position of the motor 62 is the rotational position of the motor 62 corresponding to the median value of the set temperature (e.g., 40°C). The default position of the motor 72 is the rotational position of the motor 72 corresponding to the median value of the flow rate.

[0157] Next, the processing procedure of the normal optimization process in the "calibration mode" will be described.

[0158] like Figure 11 As shown, the control device 7 performs PID (Proportional Integral Derivative) control based on the first target temperature (step S210). Specifically, the control device 7 uses PID control to calculate the rotational position of the motor 62 based on the first target temperature and drives the motor 62 according to the calculated rotational position. For example, the first target temperature is set to 35°C. It should be noted that while PID control is used to ensure that the discharged water temperature is consistent with the target temperature, this is not particularly limited and various control methods may be used to ensure that the discharged water temperature is consistent with the target temperature.

[0159] Next, the control device 7 determines whether or not a third predetermined time has continued since the start of the PID control in step S210 (step S211). For example, the third predetermined time is set to 60 seconds.

[0160] When it is determined that the PID control from the start of step S210 has not continued for the third prescribed time (step S211: No), the control device 7 determines whether the deviation e in the PID control is below the fourth prescribed temperature, and whether this state (hereinafter referred to as "the state below the fourth prescribed temperature") has continued for the fourth prescribed time (step S212).

[0161] When it is determined that the state of the fourth predetermined temperature or lower has not continued for the fourth predetermined time (step S212 : No), the control device 7 returns to step S211 .

[0162] Next, if it is determined that the third predetermined time has continued since the start of PID control for the first target temperature in step S210 (step S211: Yes), or if it is determined that the state below the fourth predetermined temperature has continued for the fourth predetermined time (step S212: Yes), the control device 7 records data based on the search results (step S213). Specifically, the control device 7 records the driving amount (number of steps) of the motor 62 at the timing of step S213 and the temperature of the mixed cold and hot water (first temperature) sensed by the temperature sensor 49 as temperature change points.

[0163] Next, the control device 7 performs PID control at the second target temperature (step S214). Specifically, the control device 7 uses PID control to calculate the rotational position of the motor 62 with the second target temperature as the target temperature, and drives the motor 62 according to the calculated rotational position. For example, the second target temperature is set to 40°C.

[0164] Next, the control device 7 determines whether or not the third predetermined time has continued since the start of the PID control in step S214 (step S215 ).

[0165] When it is determined that the third predetermined time has not continued since the start of the PID control in step S214 (step S215 : No), the control device 7 determines whether the state of the fourth predetermined temperature or less has continued for a fourth predetermined time (step S216 ).

[0166] When it is determined that the state of the fourth predetermined temperature or lower has not continued for the fourth predetermined time (step S216 : No), the control device 7 returns to step S215 .

[0167] If it is determined that the third predetermined time has continued since the start of PID control in step S214 (step S215: Yes), or if it is determined that the state below the fourth predetermined temperature has continued for the fourth predetermined time (step S216: Yes), the control device 7 records data based on the search results (step S217). Specifically, the control device 7 records the driving amount (number of steps) of the motor 62 at the timing of step S217 and the temperature of the mixed cold and hot water (second temperature) sensed by the temperature sensor 49 as temperature change points.

[0168] Next, the control device 7 performs PID control at the third target temperature (step S218). Specifically, the control device 7 uses PID control to calculate the rotational position of the motor 62 at the third target temperature and drives the motor 62 to achieve the calculated rotational position. For example, the third target temperature is set to 45°C.

[0169] Next, the control device 7 determines whether or not the third predetermined time has continued since the start of the PID control in step S218 (step S219).

[0170] When it is determined that the third predetermined time has not continued since the start of the PID control in step S218 (step S219 : NO), the control device 7 determines whether the rotation position of the motor 62 has reached the upper limit rotation position (step S220 ).

[0171] When determining that the rotational position of the motor 62 has not reached the upper limit rotational position (step S220 : NO), the control device 7 determines whether a state of a fourth predetermined temperature or less continues for a fourth predetermined time (step S221 ).

[0172] When it is determined that the state of the fourth predetermined temperature or lower has not continued for the fourth predetermined time (step S221 : No), the control device 7 returns to step S219 .

[0173] If it is determined that the third predetermined time has continued since the PID control of step S218 was started (step S219: Yes), or if it is determined that the state below the fourth predetermined temperature has continued for the fourth predetermined time (step S221: Yes), the control device 7 records data based on the search result (step S222), and proceeds to Figure 12 Specifically, in step S222 , the control device 7 records the driving amount (number of steps) of the motor 62 and the temperature (third temperature) of the mixed cold and hot water sensed by the temperature sensor 49 at the timing of step S222 .

[0174] If it is determined that the upper limit rotation position has been reached (step S220: YES), the control device 7 waits for a fifth predetermined time (step S223). For example, the fifth predetermined time is set to 30 seconds.

[0175] Next, the control device 7 sets the upper limit rotation position to the rotation position at the third target temperature (step S224).

[0176] Next, the control device 7 records data based on the search results (step S222), and proceeds to Figure 12 In step S222 , specifically, the control device 7 records the upper limit rotation position of the motor 62 and the temperature (third temperature) of the mixed cold and hot water sensed by the temperature sensor 49 as temperature change points.

[0177] like Figure 13 As shown, on a curve graph with the rotation position of the motor 62 as the horizontal axis and the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water sensed by the temperature sensor 49 as the vertical axis, the temperature change point recorded in step S213 is set as point A, the temperature change point recorded in step S217 is set as point B, and the temperature change point recorded in step S222 is set as point C, and the temperature change points can be drawn.

[0178] Next, the processing procedure of the temperature control table allocation process in the "calibration mode" will be described.

[0179] like Figure 12 As shown, the control device 7 calculates the distribution coefficient (step S225). Specifically, the control device 7 calculates the connection coefficient. Figure 14 The slope and intercept of the linear equation of the straight line AB between point A (s1, t1) and point B (s2, t2) are calculated, and the connection Figure 15 The slope and intercept of the linear equation of line BC between points B (s2, t2) and C (s3, t3) are shown. The distribution coefficient is the slope and intercept of the linear equation of line AB and the slope and intercept of the linear equation of line BC.

[0180] Next, the control device 7 closes the fifth electromagnetic valve 35 (step S226). By closing the fifth electromagnetic valve 35, the control device 7 stops the water spouting from the waiting hot water spouting port 25a.

[0181] Next, the control device 7 interpolates the table values ​​(step S227). Specifically, based on the distribution coefficient calculated in step S225, the control device 7 calculates the rotational position of the motor 62 for each set temperature (each temperature that can be set by the remote controller 4). For example, at set temperatures below the second target temperature, the control device 7 calculates the rotational position of the motor 62 based on the linear equation of the line AB. Furthermore, at set temperatures above the second target temperature, the control device 7 calculates the rotational position of the motor 62 based on the linear equation of the line BC.

[0182] It should be noted that the rotational position of motor 62 is calculated based on three temperature change points, but this is not particularly limited. Alternatively, more than three temperature change points may be searched, and a linear equation of a straight line between two temperature change points may be calculated in descending order of target temperature. Similarly to the three-point case, the rotational position of motor 62 may be calculated for each set temperature. Using three or more temperature change points allows control device 7 to improve calibration accuracy.

[0183] Next, the control device 7 updates all the table data (step S228). Specifically, the control device 7 updates all the data in the temperature adjustment opening table according to the rotation position of the motor 62 calculated in step S227.

[0184] Next, the control device 7 performs origin alignment of the motor 62 (step S229 ).

[0185] Next, the control device 7 drives the motors 62 and 72 to the default positions (step S230 ), and ends the process.

[0186] As described above, in the faucet device 1 , the control device 7 can execute a calibration mode in which a predetermined position or a predetermined driving amount is adjusted based on at least one of the installed environment (water pressure, hot water supply temperature) and product variations.

[0187] By implementing this control, the water faucet device 1 can adjust for site-specific differences in the temperature and pressure of hot water from the hot water supply line 39, the temperature and pressure of cold water from the cold water supply line 46, and the temperature adjustment of the SMA thermal valve. Consequently, the water faucet device 1 only activates the thermostatic valve 82 via the motor 62 when the set temperature is changed, and only adjusts the temperature of the discharged water using the thermostatic spring 83, achieving highly accurate temperature adjustment corresponding to the set temperature. Furthermore, the water faucet device 1 maximizes its ability to shorten the time it takes for the discharged water to stabilize when there are temperature fluctuations or pressure changes in the cold or hot water supply.

[0188] Further effects and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the broader aspects of the present invention are not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Therefore, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the overall inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0189] Supplementary Notes

[0190] (1) A water faucet device comprising:

[0191] The water-discharging part discharges water into the bathroom;

[0192] a hot and cold water mixing unit for mixing the hot and cold water to be supplied to the water spouting unit;

[0193] an actuator for actuating the hot and cold water mixing unit;

[0194] a control device for controlling the driving of the actuator; and

[0195] The operation unit transmits the set temperature information to the control device through the operation from the user,

[0196] The hot and cold water mixing unit has:

[0197] The main body shell is formed with a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet and a mixed cold and hot water outlet;

[0198] a temperature-sensitive force-applying portion, the force applied by which varies according to the temperature of the mixed cold and hot water, and the temperature-sensitive force-applying portion can adjust the openings of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet; and

[0199] The valve body is assembled in a manner that it can slide freely along the axial direction in the main body shell, and can adjust the opening of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet.

[0200] When receiving the set temperature information, the control device drives the actuator to a predetermined position corresponding to the set temperature or drives the actuator with a predetermined driving amount corresponding to the set temperature, thereby adjusting the axial position of the valve body.

[0201] (2) The water faucet device according to (1), wherein:

[0202] The control device fixes the opening of the valve body after the set temperature is changed and before the set temperature is changed next.

[0203] (3) The water faucet device according to (1), wherein:

[0204] After the set temperature is changed and before the set temperature is changed next, the control device does not drive the actuator to change the opening degree of the valve body.

[0205] (4) The water faucet device according to (1) or (2), wherein:

[0206] The actuator is a motor,

[0207] After driving the motor to the predetermined position or driving the motor at the predetermined driving amount, the control device turns off the excitation of the motor.

[0208] (5) The water faucet device according to (4), wherein:

[0209] The motor is a stepping motor,

[0210] The stepping motor and the valve body are fixed in a state where they are aligned.

[0211] (6) The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein:

[0212] The water faucet device is provided with a temperature sensor for sensing water temperature.

[0213] The jetting unit includes a first jetting unit and a second jetting unit, wherein the second jetting unit is provided at a lower position than the first jetting unit.

[0214] The control device controls the second jetting unit to jet water when the jetted water temperature sensed by the temperature sensor is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature.

[0215] (7) The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein:

[0216] The water faucet device is provided with a temperature sensor for sensing water temperature.

[0217] When the temperature of the discharged water sensed by the temperature sensor is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature, the control device drives the actuator so as to move the valve body in a direction in which the opening degree of the hot water inlet is reduced.

[0218] (8) The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein:

[0219] When the operation unit is continuously operated within a predetermined time period so as to increase the set temperature, the set temperature is restricted from being changed to a predetermined temperature or higher.

[0220] (9) The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein:

[0221] The control device can execute the following calibration mode: adjusting the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount according to at least one of the installed environment and product deviation,

[0222] The actuator is a motor,

[0223] The calibration mode is executed by the control device driving the motor while the water jetting unit jets water.

[0224] In the calibration mode, the control device disconnects excitation of the motor after driving the motor.

Claims

1. A water faucet device comprising: The water-discharging part discharges water into the bathroom; a hot and cold water mixing unit for mixing the hot and cold water to be supplied to the water spouting unit; an actuator for actuating the hot and cold water mixing unit; a control device for controlling the driving of the actuator; as well as The operation unit transmits the set temperature information to the control device through the operation from the user, The hot and cold water mixing unit has: The main body shell is formed with a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet and a mixed cold and hot water outlet; a temperature-sensitive force-applying portion, wherein the force applied by the temperature-sensitive force-applying portion varies according to the temperature of the mixed cold and hot water, and the temperature-sensitive force-applying portion is capable of adjusting the openings of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet; as well as The valve body is assembled in a manner that it can slide freely along the axial direction in the main body shell, and can adjust the opening of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet. When receiving the set temperature information, the control device drives the actuator to a predetermined position corresponding to the set temperature or drives the actuator with a predetermined driving amount corresponding to the set temperature, thereby adjusting the axial position of the valve body.

2. The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein: The control device fixes the opening of the valve body after the set temperature is changed and before the set temperature is changed next.

3. The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein: After the set temperature is changed and before the set temperature is changed next, the control device does not drive the actuator to change the opening degree of the valve body.

4. The water faucet device according to claim 2, wherein: The actuator is a motor, After driving the motor to the predetermined position or driving the motor at the predetermined driving amount, the control device turns off the excitation of the motor.

5. The water faucet device according to claim 4, wherein: The motor is a stepper motor, The stepping motor and the valve body are fixed in a state where they are aligned.

6. The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein: The water faucet device is provided with a temperature sensor for sensing water temperature. The jetting unit includes a first jetting unit and a second jetting unit, wherein the second jetting unit is provided at a lower position than the first jetting unit. The control device controls the second jetting unit to jet water when the jetted water temperature sensed by the temperature sensor is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature.

7. The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein: The water faucet device is provided with a temperature sensor for sensing water temperature. The control device drives the actuator so as to move the valve body in a direction in which the opening degree of the hot water inlet is reduced when the water temperature of the discharged water sensed by the temperature sensor is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature.

8. The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein: When the operation unit is continuously operated within a predetermined time period so as to increase the set temperature, the set temperature is restricted from being changed to a predetermined temperature or higher.

9. The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein: The control device can execute the following calibration mode: adjusting the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount according to at least one of the installed environment and product deviation, The actuator is a motor, The calibration mode is executed by the control device driving the motor while the water jetting unit jets water. In the calibration mode, the control device disconnects excitation of the motor after driving the motor.

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