Water hydrant device

Abstract

Provided is a water hydrant device capable of suppressing the occurrence of condensation inside a waterproof case that accommodates a motor and a controller, and capable of suppressing an increase in size of a water hydrant main body. A faucet device according to an embodiment is provided with: a water discharge unit that discharges hot and cold water; and a faucet main body which is disposed inside the bathroom and supplies cold and hot water to the water spraying part. The water hydrant main body is provided with: a flow rate-temperature adjustment unit that adjusts the flow rate and temperature of the hot and cold water discharged from the water discharge unit; a motor that drives the flow rate / temperature adjustment unit; a controller that controls the driving of the motor; a first waterproof case that accommodates the motor and isolates the motor from the internal space of the bathroom; and a second waterproof case that accommodates the controller and isolates the controller from the internal space of the bathroom. The first waterproof case and the second waterproof case communicate with an external space of the bathroom.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a faucet device. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a faucet device in which a motor driving a temperature adjustment unit and a flow adjustment unit for hot and cold water, and a controller controlling the driving of the motor are housed in a waterproof casing and isolated from the external space of the bathroom (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 3-275822

[0004] However, such conventional water faucet devices may generate condensation inside the waterproof housing that houses the motor and the controller. In addition, such conventional water faucet devices house the motor and the controller in a single waterproof housing, so the size of the waterproof housing becomes larger than necessary, which may increase the size of the water faucet body. Summary of the Invention

[0005] An object of one aspect of the embodiment is to provide a water faucet device that can suppress condensation inside a waterproof case that houses a motor and a controller and that can suppress an increase in the size of a water faucet main body.

[0006] A faucet device according to one embodiment includes: a water spray portion that sprays hot and cold water; and a faucet main body that is arranged inside a bathroom and supplies hot and cold water to the water spray portion, the faucet main body including: a flow-temperature adjustment portion that adjusts the flow rate and temperature of the hot and cold water sprayed from the water spray portion; a motor that drives the flow-temperature adjustment portion; a controller that controls the drive of the motor; a first waterproof casing that accommodates the motor and isolates the motor from the interior space of the bathroom; and a second waterproof casing that accommodates the controller and isolates the controller from the interior space of the bathroom, the first waterproof casing and the second waterproof casing being connected to the external space of the bathroom.

[0007] According to the structure described above, the first waterproof shell and the second waterproof shell are connected to the external space of the bathroom (for example, the space inside the wall of the bathroom), whereby the air outside the bathroom flows into the first waterproof shell and the second waterproof shell, and the air flows out from the first waterproof shell and the second waterproof shell to the outside of the bathroom. The air outside the bathroom enters and exits relative to the first waterproof shell and the second waterproof shell, thereby enabling the first waterproof shell and the second waterproof shell to perform the so-called "breathing". As described above, the first waterproof shell and the second waterproof shell "breathe", thereby enabling the temperature inside the first waterproof shell and the second waterproof shell to be set to the same as the temperature outside the bathroom. Thus, condensation inside the first waterproof shell and the second waterproof shell can be suppressed. In addition, the motor is covered by the first waterproof shell, and the controller is covered by the second waterproof shell, that is, the motor and the controller are covered by the waterproof shell respectively, thereby enabling the size of each waterproof shell to be suppressed to a minimum. Thus, the enlargement of the faucet main body can be suppressed.

[0008] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned faucet device, any one of the first waterproof housing and the second waterproof housing communicates with the external space of the bathroom, and any other waterproof housing communicates with the one waterproof housing.

[0009] With this structure, one of the first and second waterproof housings communicates with the bathroom's exterior, and the other communicates with the first, thereby indirectly connecting the other waterproof housing to the bathroom's exterior via the first waterproof housing. This reduces the number of holes formed in the bathroom wall, etc., to connect the waterproof housings to the bathroom's exterior, increasing the flexibility in the placement of the motor and controller. This also prevents the faucet from becoming larger. Furthermore, if the cross-sectional area of ​​the holes formed in the bathroom wall, etc. is the same, using a single large hole improves air exchange efficiency compared to using multiple small holes, effectively preventing condensation.

[0010] Furthermore, the above-mentioned water faucet device includes a wiring harness for connecting the electric motor and the controller, and the wiring harness passes through a communication hole for connecting the first waterproof case and the second waterproof case.

[0011] According to the above structure, when a wiring harness is used to electrically connect the motor and the controller, a dedicated hole for passing the wiring harness is not required. Thus, the electrical connection of the motor and the controller can be completed inside the first waterproof housing and the second waterproof housing, and the waterproof performance is improved.

[0012] In addition, in the above-mentioned faucet device, the motor has a first motor for adjusting the temperature of hot and cold water and a second motor for adjusting the flow rate of hot and cold water, the first waterproof housing respectively accommodates the first motor and the second motor, the second waterproof housing is connected to the external space of the bathroom, and the first motor is arranged near the part connected to the external space of the bathroom compared to the second motor.

[0013] With this structure, even when the first waterproof housing housing the electric motor is indirectly connected to the bathroom's exterior, the first electric motor for temperature control, which is more susceptible to condensation than the second electric motor for hot and cold water flow control, can be positioned near a portion of the bathroom wall or other portion of the bathroom's exterior. This effectively prevents condensation and facilitates replacement of the first electric motor.

[0014] In addition, in the above-mentioned faucet device, the motor has a first motor for adjusting the temperature of hot and cold water and a second motor for adjusting the flow of hot and cold water, the first waterproof housing includes a first motor housing for accommodating the first motor and a second motor housing for accommodating the second motor, and the first motor housing is connected to the external space of the bathroom.

[0015] According to the above configuration, the first motor for temperature adjustment, which is more susceptible to condensation than the second motor for hot and cold water flow adjustment, is placed near a portion of the bathroom wall or the like that communicates with the outside space of the bathroom. This effectively suppresses condensation.

[0016] In addition, in the above-mentioned faucet device, any one of the first waterproof shell and the second waterproof shell is connected to the external space of the bathroom, and any other waterproof shell is connected to the one waterproof shell, and the one waterproof shell is connected to the external space of the bathroom via a hose component.

[0017] With this structure, the first or second waterproof housing, whichever is connected to the bathroom's exterior, communicates with the exterior via the hose component. This increases the flexibility of the motor and controller. In particular, the hose component is flexible enough to bend freely to a certain degree, thereby increasing the flexibility of the waterproof housing's placement. Furthermore, the hose component's flexibility eliminates the application of force to the waterproof housing, ensuring watertightness.

[0018] In addition, the above-mentioned faucet device has: a plurality of solenoid valves that switch the flow paths of hot and cold water; and a plurality of wiring harnesses that respectively connect the plurality of solenoid valves to the controller, the second waterproof shell has a wiring harness hole for the wiring harness to be inserted through, the plurality of wiring harnesses are bundled by a bundling component and inserted through the wiring harness hole, and the wiring harness hole has a sealing component that watertightly seals the gap between the wiring harness hole and the wiring harness when the wiring harness is inserted through it.

[0019] According to the above structure, multiple wire harnesses are bundled together by the bundling member (rubber insulation) and inserted through the harness hole, thereby reducing the path for cold water to flow into the controller. In addition, when multiple wire harnesses are bundled, a large harness hole is required. However, in this case, the harness hole is sealed by the sealing member (grommet), thereby also preventing cold water from flowing along the wire harnesses and infiltrating into the interior of the waterproof housing.

[0020] Furthermore, the above-mentioned water faucet device includes a cover member that covers the first waterproof case and the second waterproof case.

[0021] According to the above structure, during construction and maintenance, for example, it is possible to prevent a worker from touching the waterproof housing, causing the relative position of the first waterproof housing and the second waterproof housing to shift and thus losing waterproofness. In this case, by making the cover member soft, it is possible to more effectively prevent the worker from grasping the cover member.

[0022] Effects of the Invention

[0023] According to the water faucet device according to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to suppress condensation from occurring inside the waterproof case that houses the motor and the controller, and to suppress an increase in the size of the water faucet main body. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing an example of a bathroom unit in which the faucet device according to the embodiment is arranged.

[0025] Figure 2 This is a front view of the remote control.

[0026] Figure 3 This is a block diagram schematically showing a water faucet device according to the embodiment.

[0027] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing a faucet main body (part 1).

[0028] Figure 5 It is a perspective view showing a mixing faucet unit.

[0029] Figure 6It is a front view showing the mixing faucet unit.

[0030] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Oblique view of section VII-VII.

[0031] Figure 8 This is an oblique view of the faucet body (part 2).

[0032] Figure 9 It is a perspective view showing the first waterproof case and the second waterproof case.

[0033] Figure 10 It is a perspective view showing a modified example of the first waterproof case and the second waterproof case.

[0034] Figure 11 It is a cross-sectional view showing the binding member and the sealing member.

[0035] Figure 12 It is a perspective view showing the binding member and the sealing member.

[0036] Figure 13 It is a perspective view showing a cover member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments of the water faucet device disclosed in the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0038] The water faucet device 1 according to the embodiment is, for example, Figure 1 As shown, it is provided in bathroom unit 1000 serving as a bathroom. Figure 1 This is a diagram showing an example of a bathroom unit 1000 in which the faucet device 1 according to the embodiment is arranged.

[0039] Bathroom unit 1000 includes a bathtub 1001, a first basin 1002, a second basin 1003, and a faucet device 1. In the following description, cold water dispensed from faucet device 1 and mixed water obtained by mixing hot and cold water and dispensed from faucet device 1 are referred to as "cold and hot water" without distinguishing between them.

[0040] In the following description, the front-to-back direction is sometimes used, where the direction in which the second basin 1003 protrudes from the wall portion 1004a of the bathroom unit 1000 is defined as the front, and the side opposite to the front is defined as the rear. Furthermore, the vertical direction is sometimes used as the downward direction, and the side opposite to the downward direction is defined as the upward direction. Furthermore, the description may sometimes use the direction perpendicular to the front-to-back direction and the upward-to-downward direction as the left-to-right direction.

[0041] First basin 1002 is attached to wall 1004a of bathroom unit 1000. First basin 1002 protrudes from wall 1004a toward the interior of the bathroom. First basin 1002 is located above bathroom floor 1005 of bathroom unit 1000. First basin 1002 houses faucet body 3 of faucet device 1.

[0042] Second basin 1003 is mounted on wall 1004a. It protrudes from wall 1004a toward the interior of the bathroom. Second basin 1003 is positioned above first basin 1002. For example, second basin 1003 may extend above bathtub 1001. Alternatively, second basin 1003 may not extend above bathtub 1001.

[0043] The second basin 1003 houses a portion of the faucet device 1. Specifically, the second basin 1003 houses a portion of the faucet 10 and a portion of the hand shower 11 of the faucet device 1. The water spout 10a provided for the faucet 10 is exposed in the second basin 1003. The water spout 10a of the faucet 10 is positioned in the second basin 1003 so that the direction of hot and cold water spray is downward.

[0044] Moreover, the shower hose 11a of the hand shower 11 of the faucet device 1 is connected to the second basin 1003. The shower hose 11a is connected to the shower water conduit accommodated in the second basin 1003.

[0045] An overhead showerhead 12 of the faucet device 1 and a warm pillar 13 of the faucet device 1 are mounted on the ceiling 1006 of the bathroom unit 1000. The overhead showerhead 12 and the warm pillar 13 are integrally provided.

[0046] Compared to the handheld showerhead 11, the overhead showerhead 12 sprays hot and cold water over a wider area of ​​the user. For example, the overhead showerhead 12 is configured to shower the user's entire body with hot and cold water. The warm column 13 combines the hot and cold water into a single stream, rectifying it and spraying it. In other words, the warm column 13 rectifying the hot and cold water is sprayed in such a way that the hot and cold water falls in an uninterrupted columnar flow.

[0047] A remote controller 4 (operating unit) of the faucet device 1 is mounted on a wall portion 1004b of the bathroom unit 1000. The remote controller 4 can be mounted on a wall portion 1004a to which the first basin 1002 and the second basin 1003 are mounted.

[0048] The remote controller 4 receives various operations from the user on the faucet body 3. Specifically, the remote controller 4 receives the operation of setting the temperature of the hot and cold water in the faucet body 3. The remote controller 4 receives the operation of setting the flow rate of the hot and cold water in the faucet body 3. The remote controller 4 receives the operation of switching between the spraying and stopping of the hot and cold water. The remote controller 4 receives the operation of switching the spraying target of the hot and cold water. When the remote controller 4 is operated by the user, it transmits the operation signal corresponding to each operation to the controller 7 (refer to Figure 3 )send.

[0049] The remote controller 4 is for example Figure 2 As shown, there are a temperature adjustment button 41, a water volume adjustment button 42 and a switch button 43. Figure 2 It is a front view showing the remote controller 4.

[0050] The temperature adjustment buttons 41 are used to adjust the temperature of the mixed 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 water. The low temperature button 41b is used to decrease the temperature of the mixed water. Furthermore, the remote control 4 displays the set temperature of the mixed 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 in accordance with the operation of the respective buttons 41a and 41b.

[0051] Furthermore, the temperature of the mixed water in the faucet body 3 can be adjusted within a predetermined temperature range. When the low temperature button 41b is operated to set the mixed water temperature below the lowest temperature in the predetermined temperature range, hot water and cold water are not mixed in the faucet body 3, and cold water is ejected.

[0052] The water volume adjustment buttons 42 are used to adjust the flow rate of the hot and cold water dispensed from the faucet device 1. The water volume adjustment buttons 42 include a water increase button 42a and a water decrease button 42b. The water increase button 42a is used to increase the flow rate of the hot and cold water. The water decrease button 42b is used to decrease the flow rate of the hot and cold water. Furthermore, the remote control 4 displays the set water volume of the hot and cold water on the second display 45b. When the water increase button 42a or the water decrease button 42b is operated, the display on the second display 45b changes accordingly to the operation of the respective buttons 42a and 42b. Furthermore, the flow rate of the hot and cold water dispensed from the faucet device 1 can be adjusted within a specified flow rate range.

[0053] The switch button 43 is used to switch between the hot and cold water supply and the shutoff of the water supply in the faucet device 1. Furthermore, the switch button 43 is used to switch the target of the hot and cold water supply in 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 column button 43d. Each button 43a-43d is switched "ON" or "OFF" by the user when pressed by the user.

[0054] When the buttons 43a to 43d of the switching button 43 are turned "OFF", hot and cold water are not dispensed. In other words, the faucet device 1 is in a water-stopping state.

[0055] When any one of the switch buttons 43 is pressed from the "OFF" state, the hot and cold water is dispensed when the pressed switch button 43 is turned "ON".

[0056] When any one of the switching buttons 43 is turned “ON” and another switching button 43 is pressed, the switching button 43 turned “ON” is changed, and the spraying destination of the hot and cold water is switched.

[0057] For example, when the handheld showerhead button 43b is turned "ON," hot and cold water is dispensed from the handheld showerhead 11. In this state, if the faucet button 43a is pressed, the handheld showerhead button 43b is turned "OFF," and the faucet button 43a is turned "ON." This causes the hot and cold water to be dispensed from the handheld showerhead 11 to the faucet 10, and the faucet 10 dispenses the hot and cold water.

[0058] When the "ON" switch button 43 is pressed again, the pressed switch button 43 turns "OFF", and the buttons 43a to 43d of the switch button 43 turn "OFF", and hot and cold water flow stops. In other words, the faucet device 1 changes from the water spouting state to the water stopping state.

[0059] In addition, each button 43a to 43d is configured so that the user can recognize the "ON" and "OFF" states. For example, the switch button 43 turned "ON" is lit, and the switch button 43 turned "OFF" is turned off.

[0060] In addition, the faucet device 1 that can dispense hot and cold water from the overhead shower 12, the warming column 13, the hand shower 11, and the faucet 10 is described here as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the faucet device 1 may also be configured without the overhead shower 12 and the warming column 13.

[0061] Next, refer to Figure 3The outline of the water faucet device 1 according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 3 1 is a schematic block diagram showing the water faucet device 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 3 In FIG, the flow of hot and cold water is represented by solid arrows, and the communication lines are represented by dotted lines.

[0062] The faucet device 1 includes a plurality of water spray parts 2 , a faucet body 3 , a remote controller 4 , and a communication unit 5 .

[0063] The plurality of water spraying parts 2 include a faucet 10 , a hand-held shower 11 , an overhead shower 12 and a warming column 13 .

[0064] The faucet main body 3 includes a mixing faucet unit 20 , a water spray switching portion 30 , and a controller 7 .

[0065] The mixing faucet unit 20 includes a flow-temperature adjustment section that adjusts the flow rate and temperature of the hot and cold water sprayed from the water spray section 2. The mixing faucet unit 20 includes a hot and cold water mixing section 50, which serves as a temperature adjustment section for the hot and cold water, and a flow adjustment section 60 as the flow-temperature adjustment section. Hot water is supplied to the hot and cold water mixing section 50 from a hot water supply source 80. Cold water is also supplied to the hot and cold water mixing section 50 from a cold water supply source 81. A stopcock 84 is provided in the flow path (hot water supply pipe 82) between the hot and cold water mixing section 50 and the hot water supply source 80. A stopcock 85 is also provided in the flow path (cold water supply pipe 83) between the hot and cold water mixing section 50 and the cold water supply source 81.

[0066] The hot and cold water mixing unit 50 mixes hot water supplied from the hot water supply source 80 with cold water supplied from the cold water supply source 81. Specifically, the hot and cold water mixing unit 50 switches whether to mix hot water with cold water. Furthermore, the hot and cold water mixing unit 50 adjusts the ratio of hot water to cold water and the temperature of the mixed water.

[0067] The mixing faucet unit 20 has a motor that drives the flow-temperature adjustment unit. In this embodiment, the hot and cold water mixing unit 50 has a first motor 51. The first motor 51 is, for example, a stepping motor. The hot and cold water mixing unit 50 drives the first motor 51 in response to the operation of the temperature adjustment button 41 of the remote controller 4, thereby adjusting the temperature control valve 210 (see FIG. 2 ). Figure 7 ) drive to switch whether to mix hot water and cold water.

[0068] Furthermore, the hot and cold water mixing unit 50 drives the first motor 51 in response to the operation of the temperature adjustment button 41 of the remote controller 4, thereby driving the temperature adjustment valve 210 to adjust the ratio of hot water mixed with cold water. Furthermore, even when the temperature adjustment button 41 is not operated, the hot and cold water mixing unit 50 can automatically adjust the temperature of the mixed water by adjusting the ratio of the flow rate of hot water to the flow rate of cold water in accordance with the temperature of the mixed water, for example, if the temperature of the hot water changes and the temperature of the mixed water changes.

[0069] The flow rate adjustment unit 60 allows cold and hot water to flow in from the cold and hot water mixing unit 50. When the cold and hot water are sprayed from the spray unit 2, the flow rate adjustment unit 60 adjusts the flow rate of the sprayed cold and hot water.

[0070] As described above, the mixing faucet unit 20 includes a motor for driving the flow-temperature adjustment unit. In this embodiment, the flow adjustment unit 60 includes a second motor 61. The second motor 61 is, for example, a stepping motor. The flow adjustment unit 60 drives the second motor 61 in response to the operation of the water volume adjustment button 42 of the remote controller 4, thereby adjusting the flow control valve 230 (see FIG. 2 ). Figure 7 ) drive to adjust the flow of hot and cold water.

[0071] The water spray switching unit 30 switches between spraying and stopping the hot and cold water flowing out of the mixing faucet unit 20. Specifically, the water spray switching unit 30 switches between spraying and stopping the hot and cold water flowing out of the water spray unit 2. Furthermore, the water spray switching unit 30 switches the target of the hot and cold water spray. The faucet device 1 switches between spraying and stopping the hot and cold water flowing out of the water spray unit 2 through the water spray switching unit 30, and adjusts the flow rate of the hot and cold water when spraying the hot and cold water through the flow adjustment unit 60.

[0072] The water spray switching unit 30 includes a plurality of electromagnetic valves 31 to 35. Specifically, the water spray switching unit 30 includes a first electromagnetic valve 31, a second electromagnetic valve 32, a third electromagnetic valve 33, and a fourth electromagnetic valve 34. The water spray switching unit 30 may include a fifth electromagnetic valve 35.

[0073] 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 .

[0074] When the first to fourth solenoid valves 31 to 34 are "closed," hot or cold water is not dispensed from the water spray section 2. That is, when the first to fourth solenoid valves 31 to 34 are "closed," hot or cold water is stopped. When any one of the first to fourth solenoid valves 31 to 34 is "open," hot or cold water is dispensed from the water spray section 2 corresponding to the "open" solenoid valve.

[0075] The first solenoid valve 31 switches the flow of hot and cold water from the faucet 10. The second solenoid valve 32 switches the flow of hot and cold water from the hand shower 11. The third solenoid valve 33 switches the flow of hot and cold water from the overhead shower 12. The fourth solenoid valve 34 switches the flow of hot and cold water from the warming column 13.

[0076] 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 dispensed from the faucet 10 .

[0077] The fifth solenoid valve 35 switches to "OFF" or "ON" in response to an operation performed by an external device 89 (for example, a multi-function remote controller installed in the washroom). In addition, the fifth solenoid valve 35 can switch to "OFF" or "ON" in response to an operation of the remote controller 4. The fifth solenoid valve 35 is a valve for discharging residual water in the hose and piping of the handheld showerhead 11, etc., and is normally maintained in the "closed" position. That is, the fifth solenoid valve 35 is set to "open" only when residual water treatment is being performed. When the fifth solenoid valve 35 becomes "open", the residual water is discharged from the residual water discharge flow path 88.

[0078] The controller 7 controls the first motor 51, the second motor 61, and the first to fourth solenoid valves 31 to 34 in response to the operation of the faucet body 3 received through the operation of the remote controller 4. Furthermore, the controller 7 controls the fifth solenoid valve 35 in response to the operation of, for example, an external device 89.

[0079] The controller 7 includes, for example, a microcomputer including a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and various circuits. Furthermore, the controller 7 may include hardware such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0080] The communication unit 5 receives operation signals generated by the remote controller 4 and the external device 89, and transmits the received operation signals to the controller 7. The remote controller 4 and the external device 89 are connected to the communication unit 5 via wired communication or wireless communication. The controller 7 is connected to the communication unit 5 via wired communication or wireless communication.

[0081] Next, refer to Figure 4 The faucet main body 3 will be described. Figure 4This is a perspective view showing the faucet main body 3. The faucet main body 3 is composed of a mixing faucet unit 20, a water spray switching unit 30 and a controller 7 (see Figure 3 ) is provided with a flow path unit 70. The faucet body 3 is mounted on the wall portion 1004a of the bathroom unit 1000 through the flow path unit 70 (see Figure 1 ).

[0082] The flow path unit 70 is formed so that the hot water supply source 80 (see Figure 3 ) to the flow path of the hot water supplied to the mixing faucet unit 20, so that the hot water supplied from the cold water supply source 81 (refer to Figure 3 ) flows into the mixing faucet unit 20, and flows into the mixing faucet unit 20 to flow hot and cold water into each water spraying part 2. In addition, the flow path unit 70 is provided with a water spraying switching part 30. In addition, the flow path unit 70 is provided with water stopcocks 84 and 85 (see Figure 3 ). In addition, a residual water discharge flow path 88 is provided in the flow path unit 70.

[0083] In the faucet body 3, the flow path unit 70 is provided at the rear, and the mixing faucet unit 20 is provided in front of the flow path unit 70. Furthermore, a portion of the flow path unit 70 is provided above the mixing faucet unit 20. Furthermore, a controller case 201, which serves as a second waterproof case and is described later, is provided in front of the mixing faucet unit 20 to house the controller 7.

[0084] Next, refer to Figures 5-7 , the mixing faucet unit 20 will be described. Figure 5 It is a perspective view showing the mixing faucet unit 20. Figure 6 It is a front view showing the mixing faucet unit 20 . Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Oblique view of section VII-VII.

[0085] The mixing faucet unit 20 is provided so as to extend in the left-right direction. A first motor housing 200a, which serves as a first waterproof housing and is described later, is provided at one end of the mixing faucet unit 20 in the left-right direction, specifically the left end. A second motor housing 200b, which serves as a first waterproof housing and is described later, is provided at the other end of the mixing faucet unit 20 in the left-right direction, specifically the right end. The second motor housing 200b, which serves as a first waterproof housing and is described later, is provided at the other end of the mixing faucet unit 20 in the left-right direction, specifically the right end.

[0086] The hot and cold water mixing unit 50 switches whether to mix the hot water supplied from the hot water supply path 203 and the cold water supplied from the cold water supply path 202 by moving the temperature regulating valve 210 (regulating valve) in the left-right direction.

[0087] For example, the thermostatic valve 210 abuts against the housing 211 provided on the left side of the thermostatic valve 210 , thereby shutting off the supply of hot water through the thermostatic valve 210 , thereby preventing the hot water from mixing with the cold water supplied from the cold water supply path 202 .

[0088] Furthermore, since the thermostatic valve 210 is separated from the housing 211 , the supply of hot water is not shut off by the thermostatic valve 210 , and therefore the hot water supplied from the hot water supply path 203 and the cold water supplied from the cold water supply path 202 are mixed.

[0089] The thermostatic valve 210 is biased toward separation from the housing 211 by the thermostatic spring 212. Furthermore, the thermostatic valve 210 is biased toward contact with the housing 211 by the bias spring 213. Specifically, the thermostatic valve 210 moves left and right based on the magnitude relationship between the preload force of the thermostatic spring 212 and the preload force of the bias spring 213.

[0090] The temperature-sensitive spring 212 is a spring whose spring constant changes according to temperature and is made of, for example, a shape memory alloy. The bias spring 213 is a spring whose spring constant remains substantially constant with respect to temperature.

[0091] When the biasing force of the biasing spring 213 is greater than the biasing force of the temperature-sensing spring 212, the thermostatic valve 210 moves leftward toward the housing 211. When the thermostatic valve 210 abuts the housing 211, the thermostatic valve 210 remains in contact with the housing 211.

[0092] When the preload force of the temperature-sensitive spring 212 is greater than the preload force of the biasing spring 213 , the thermostatic valve 210 moves rightward to separate from the housing 211 .

[0093] When the preload force of the temperature-sensing spring 212 is equal to the preload force of the bias spring 213 , the thermostatic valve 210 does not move leftward or rightward, and remains at a position where the preload force of the temperature-sensing spring 212 and the preload force of the bias spring 213 are balanced.

[0094] The temperature-sensing spring 212 abuts against a liner 214 at its other end, opposite the end abutting the thermostatic valve 210. The liner 214 is connected to a rotational shaft 216 via a main shaft 215. The main shaft 215 is rotatably supported by the housing 211, converting the rotational motion of the rotational shaft 216 into horizontal linear motion of the liner 214. Consequently, the liner 214 moves horizontally in response to the rotation of the rotational shaft 216.

[0095] The rotating shaft 216 is connected to the first motor 51 via a transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism is housed in the first motor housing 200a. The transmission mechanism includes a first gear connected to the rotating shaft of the first motor 51 and a second gear connected to the rotating shaft 216. The first gear and the second gear mesh with each other. The rotating shaft 216 transmits the rotation of the rotating shaft of the first motor 51 via the transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism is the same as the transmission mechanism in the flow rate adjustment unit 60 described later.

[0096] In the hot and cold water mixing unit 50, the gasket 214 moves left and right in accordance with the rotational position of the rotating shaft 216, that is, the rotational position of the rotating shaft of the first motor 51. Specifically, the hot and cold water mixing unit 50 can adjust the position of the thermostatic valve 210 to a position where the preload force of the temperature-sensitive spring 212 and the preload force of the bias spring 213 are balanced, in accordance with the rotational position of the rotating shaft of the first motor 51. Thus, when the hot and cold water mixing unit 50 dispenses mixed water, the temperature of the mixed water can be set to the set temperature corresponding to the rotational position of the rotating shaft of the first motor 51.

[0097] Furthermore, when mixed water is being dispensed, if, for example, the temperature of the hot water changes and the temperature of the mixed water changes, the temperature-sensing spring 212 expands and contracts in accordance with the temperature of the mixed water, causing the thermostatic valve 210 to move left and right, automatically changing the equilibrium position of the thermostatic valve 210. This automatically adjusts the amount of hot and cold water in the mixed water, thereby automatically adjusting the temperature of the mixed water.

[0098] The hot and cold water mixing unit 50 is in communication with the flow rate regulating unit 60 via the communication hole 220 . Hot and cold water flows from the hot and cold water mixing unit 50 into the flow rate regulating unit 60 via the communication hole 220 .

[0099] The flow rate adjustment unit 60 rotates the flow rate adjustment valve 230 (adjustment valve) about a virtual axis extending in the left-right direction, thereby changing the area of ​​communication between the opening of the restriction member 221 and the opening of the flow rate adjustment valve 230, thereby changing the opening of the flow rate adjustment valve 230. By changing the opening of the flow rate adjustment valve 230, the flow rate of the cold and hot water flowing out of the mixing faucet unit 20, that is, the flow rate of the hot and cold water flowing out of the water spraying unit 2 (see FIG. 2 ) Figure 3 ) to adjust the flow rate of hot and cold water sprayed out.

[0100] Next, refer to Figures 8 to 13 , the faucet main body 3 is further explained. Figure 8 It is a perspective view of the faucet main body 3. Figure 9 It is a perspective view showing the first waterproof cases 200a and 200b and the second waterproof case 201. Figure 10It is a perspective view showing a modified example of the first waterproof case 200a, 200b and the second waterproof case 201. Figure 11 It is a cross-sectional view showing the binding member 306 and the sealing member 307 . Figure 12 It is a perspective view showing the binding member 306 and the sealing member 307. Figure 13 It is a perspective view showing the cover member 400.

[0101] As described above, the faucet body 3 is arranged in the bathroom unit 1000 (see Figure 1 ) inside. Figure 8 As shown, in the faucet body 3, the first motor 51 that drives the hot and cold water mixing unit 50 is housed in a first motor housing 200a, which serves as a first waterproof housing. In the faucet body 3, the second motor 61 that drives the flow rate adjustment unit 60 is housed in a second motor housing 200b, which serves as the first waterproof housing. In other words, the first waterproof housing includes the first motor housing 200a and the second motor housing 200b.

[0102] like Figure 9 As shown, first motor housing 200a houses first motor 51, thereby isolating first motor 51 from the internal space of bathroom unit 1000. Second motor housing 200b houses second motor 61, thereby isolating second motor 61 from the internal space of bathroom unit 1000. As described above, first motor housing 200a and second motor housing 200b, which serve as the first waterproof housing, house first motor 51 and second motor 61, respectively.

[0103] In addition, in faucet main body 3, controller 7 is housed in controller case 201 as a second waterproof case. Controller case 201 houses controller 7, thereby isolating controller 7 from the internal space of bathroom unit 1000.

[0104] Any one of first motor housing 200 a and second motor housing 200 b as the first waterproof housing and controller housing 201 as the second waterproof housing communicates with the external space of bathroom unit 1000 .

[0105] Furthermore, any other of first motor housing 200 a as the first waterproof housing, second motor housing 200 b as the second waterproof housing, and controller housing 201 as the second waterproof housing communicates with one waterproof housing communicating with the external space of bathroom unit 1000 .

[0106] exist Figure 9In the illustrated example, controller housing 201, serving as a second waterproof housing, communicates with the exterior of bathroom unit 1000, while first motor housing 200a and second motor housing 200b, serving as first waterproof housings, communicate with the controller housing. First motor 51 is positioned closer to the portion communicating with the exterior of bathroom unit 1000 than second motor 61.

[0107] return Figure 8 Any one of first motor housing 200a, second motor housing 200b, and controller housing 201, which serves as a first waterproof housing, communicates with the exterior of the bathroom unit. In this case, any one of the waterproof housings communicates with the exterior of bathroom unit 1000 via hose member 300.

[0108] Hose member 300 is flexible. One end of hose member 300 is connected to faucet body 3, and the other end is connected to the wall (wall surface WS) of bathroom unit 100. Any one of first motor housing 200a, second motor housing 200b, and controller housing 201 (for example, controller housing 201) is connected to the space within the wall of bathroom unit 1000.

[0109] like Figure 9 As shown, when the air inside the waterproof housing flows out to the space outside bathroom unit 1000, air A1 from first motor housing 200a of the first waterproof housing flows from communication hole 301 through controller housing 201, which serves as the second waterproof housing, toward wall surface WS through hose member 300. Communication hole 301 is a hole for connecting first motor housing 200a, which serves as the first waterproof housing, and controller housing 201, which serves as the second waterproof housing.

[0110] Furthermore, when the air inside the waterproof housing flows out to the space outside bathroom unit 1000, air A2 from second motor housing 200b, which serves as the first waterproof housing, flows from communication hole 302 through controller housing 201, which serves as the second waterproof housing, toward wall surface WS and out to hose member 300. Communication hole 302 is a hole for connecting second motor housing 200b, which serves as the first waterproof housing, and controller housing 201, which serves as the second waterproof housing.

[0111] Air A3 obtained by combining air A1 from first motor case 200 a and air A2 from second motor case 200 b flows out from hose member 300 to the external space of bathroom unit 1000 .

[0112] In addition, when air flows from the external space of bathroom unit 1000 into the interior of the waterproof housing, air A4 from the external space of bathroom unit 1000 flows into hose component 300, and flows from hose component 300 through controller housing 201 serving as the second waterproof housing to first motor housing 200a and second motor housing 200b serving as the first waterproof housing.

[0113] With the above-described structure, first waterproof cases 200a, 200b, and second waterproof case 201 communicate with external space, such as the space within the walls of bathroom unit 1000. This allows air A4 outside bathroom unit 1000 to flow into first waterproof cases 200a, 200b, and second waterproof case 201, while air A3 flows out of first waterproof cases 200a, 200b, and second waterproof case 201 to the outside of bathroom unit 1000. This flow of air A4 outside bathroom unit 1000 into and out of first waterproof cases 200a, 200b, and second waterproof case 201 allows first waterproof cases 200a, 200b, and second waterproof case 201 to "breathe." As described above, the "breathing" of first waterproof cases 200a, 200b, and second waterproof case 201 allows the temperatures inside first waterproof cases 200a, 200b, and second waterproof case 201 to be the same as the temperature outside bathroom unit 1000. This prevents condensation from forming inside the first waterproof cases 200a, 200b and the second waterproof case 201. Furthermore, by covering the motors 51, 61 with the first waterproof cases 200a, 200b and the controller 7 with the second waterproof case 201—that is, by covering the motors 51, 61 and the controller 7 with the waterproof cases—the size of each waterproof case can be minimized. This prevents the faucet body 3 from becoming larger.

[0114] Furthermore, one of first waterproof housings 200a, 200b and second waterproof housing 201 communicates with the exterior of bathroom unit 1000, and the other communicates with the first waterproof housing, thereby indirectly communicating the other waterproof housing with the exterior of bathroom unit 1000 via the one waterproof housing. This reduces the number of holes formed in the wall of bathroom unit 1000, etc., for communication with the exterior of bathroom unit 1000, thereby increasing the flexibility in the placement of motors 51, 61, and controller 7. This also prevents an increase in the size of faucet body 3. Furthermore, when the cross-sectional area of ​​the holes formed in the wall of bathroom unit 1000, etc., is the same, using a single large hole improves air exchange efficiency compared to using multiple small holes, effectively suppressing condensation. Furthermore, using a single large hole allows for a single connection, compared to connecting multiple small holes individually, thereby improving manufacturability and ease of construction.

[0115] Furthermore, first waterproof casings 200a and 200b house first motor 51 and second motor 61, respectively. Second waterproof casing 201 communicates with the exterior of bathroom unit 1000, and first motor 51 is positioned closer to the portion communicating with the exterior of bathroom unit 1000 than second motor 61. Consequently, even when first waterproof casings 200a and 200b, which house motors 51 and 61, are indirectly communicating with the exterior of bathroom unit 1000, first motor 51, which is used for temperature adjustment and is more susceptible to condensation than second motor 61, which is used for adjusting the flow rate of hot and cold water, can be positioned closer to a portion communicating with the exterior of bathroom unit 1000, such as a wall of bathroom unit 1000. This effectively suppresses condensation and facilitates replacement of first motor 51.

[0116] Furthermore, the waterproof housings of first waterproof housings 200a, 200b and second waterproof housing 201 that communicate with the exterior of bathroom unit 1000 communicate with the exterior of bathroom unit 1000 via hose member 300. This increases the degree of freedom in the placement of motors 51, 61 and controller 7. In particular, by providing hose member 300 with a certain degree of flexibility, allowing for a certain degree of free bending, the degree of freedom in the placement of the waterproof housings is increased. Furthermore, the flexibility of hose member 300 eliminates the application of force to the waterproof housings, ensuring watertightness.

[0117] In addition, return Figure 8 Second motor housing 200b, which houses second motor 61, is connected to controller housing 201, which serves as a second waterproof housing and houses controller 7, via hose member 310. Second motor housing 200b communicates with the exterior of bathroom unit 1000, i.e., the space within the wall of bathroom unit 1000, via hose member 300, controller housing 201, and hose member 310.

[0118] Hose member 310, like hose member 300 described above, is flexible. This increases the flexibility of the second motor 61 and controller 7. In this case, as with hose member 300 described above, by providing hose member 310 with a certain degree of flexibility, the flexibility of the waterproof housing is increased. Furthermore, watertightness can be ensured without applying force to the waterproof housing.

[0119] In addition, the harness 303 (see Figure 11 ) are inserted through the communicating holes 301 and 302, thereby passing through these communicating holes 301 and 302. The wire harness 303 electrically connects the motors (the first motor 51 and the second motor 61) and the controller 7.

[0120] According to the above structure, when the harness 303 is used to electrically connect the motors 51 and 61 and the controller 7, there is no need for a dedicated hole for passing the harness 303. As a result, the electrical connection between the motors 51 and 61 and the controller 7 can be completed inside the first waterproof housings 200a and 200b and the second waterproof housing 201, thereby improving waterproofness.

[0121] In addition, if Figure 10 As shown, in the case where the first motor housing 200a and the second motor housing 200b as the first waterproof housing respectively accommodate the first motor 51 and the second motor 61, for example, the first motor housing 200a accommodating the first motor 51 in the first waterproof housing can also be connected to the bathroom unit 1000 (see Figure 1 ) is connected to the external space.

[0122] With the above configuration, since hot water and cold water flow into the mixed hot and cold water, first motor 51 for temperature adjustment, where condensation is more likely to form near the cold water, can be positioned near a portion of bathroom unit 1000, such as a wall, that communicates with the outside space of bathroom unit 1000. This effectively suppresses condensation.

[0123] like Figure 11 and 12 As shown, controller housing 201, serving as the second waterproof housing, has a harness hole 305 through which multiple harnesses 304 are inserted. These harnesses 304 electrically connect the multiple solenoid valves that switch the flow paths of hot and cold water to controller 7. These harnesses 304 are bundled together by a binding member 306. Binding member 306 is, for example, a rubber insulating member covering the harnesses 304 with rubber or the like.

[0124] The harness hole 305 through which the plurality of harnesses 304 are inserted has a sealing member 307. When the harness hole 305 is penetrated by the harness 304, the gap between the harness hole 305 and the harness 304 is watertightly sealed by the sealing member 307. The sealing member 307 is, for example, a grommet.

[0125] According to the above structure, the plurality of wire harnesses 304 are bundled by the bundling member (rubber insulation) 306 and inserted through the harness hole 305, thereby reducing the path for cold water to flow to the controller 7. In addition, when the plurality of wire harnesses 304 are bundled, a large harness hole 305 is required. However, in the above case, the harness hole 305 is sealed by the sealing member (wire cover) 307, thereby also preventing cold water from flowing along the wire harness 304 and infiltrating into the interior of the waterproof housing.

[0126] like Figure 13As shown, the faucet body 3 further includes a cover member 400. The cover member 400 is a soft member that covers the first waterproof housing (first motor housing 200a, second motor housing 200b) and the second waterproof housing (controller housing 201) from the front side.

[0127] With the above-described structure, during construction and maintenance, for example, it is possible to prevent a worker from touching the waterproof housing, thereby causing the relative positions of the first waterproof housing 200a, 200b and the second waterproof housing 201 to shift and thus losing waterproofness. In this case, by making the cover member 400 soft, it is possible to more effectively prevent a worker from gripping the cover member 400.

[0128] Furthermore, a display label 401 may be provided on the cover member 400, for example, facing the construction worker. The display label 401 is preferably provided in a conspicuous location, such as on the front or top surface of the cover member 400. The display label 401 may display, for example, a message or illustration reminding the worker not to move the waterproof housing.

[0129] <Note> (1)

[0131] A water faucet device, comprising:

[0132] a water spraying portion that sprays hot and cold water; and

[0133] The faucet body is arranged inside the bathroom and supplies hot and cold water to the water spray part.

[0134] The faucet body comprises:

[0135] a flow-temperature adjustment unit for adjusting the flow rate and temperature of the hot and cold water sprayed from the water spray unit;

[0136] a motor driving the flow-temperature adjustment unit;

[0137] a controller for controlling the driving of the electric motor;

[0138] a first waterproof housing that houses the motor and isolates the motor from the interior space of the bathroom; and

[0139] a second waterproof housing that houses the controller and isolates the controller from the interior space of the bathroom;

[0140] The first waterproof housing and the second waterproof housing are in communication with an external space of the bathroom. (2)

[0142] The water faucet device according to (1), wherein:

[0143] Any one of the first waterproof housing and the second waterproof housing is communicated with the external space of the bathroom, and any other waterproof housing is communicated with the one waterproof housing. (3)

[0145] The water faucet device according to (2), wherein:

[0146] A wiring harness is provided to connect the motor and the controller.

[0147] The wiring harness passes through a communication hole for connecting the first waterproof case and the second waterproof case. (4)

[0149] The water faucet device according to (2) or (3), wherein:

[0150] The motor includes a first motor for adjusting the temperature of hot and cold water and a second motor for adjusting the flow rate of hot and cold water.

[0151] The first waterproof housing accommodates the first motor and the second motor respectively.

[0152] The second waterproof housing is in communication with the external space of the bathroom.

[0153] The first motor is arranged closer to a portion communicating with an external space of the bathroom than the second motor. (5)

[0155] The water faucet device according to (2) or (3), wherein:

[0156] The motor includes a first motor for adjusting the temperature of hot and cold water and a second motor for adjusting the flow rate of hot and cold water.

[0157] The first waterproof housing includes a first motor housing for accommodating the first motor and a second motor housing for accommodating the second motor. The first motor housing communicates with an external space of the bathroom. (6)

[0159] The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein:

[0160] Any one of the first waterproof housing and the second waterproof housing is communicated with the external space of the bathroom, and any other waterproof housing is communicated with the first waterproof housing.

[0161] The one waterproof housing is in communication with an external space of the bathroom via a hose member. (7)

[0163] The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein:

[0164] A plurality of solenoid valves for switching the flow paths of hot and cold water; and

[0165] a plurality of wiring harnesses, which respectively connect the plurality of solenoid valves to the controller;

[0166] The second waterproof housing has a harness hole for the harness to be inserted through.

[0167] The plurality of wire harnesses are bundled together by a bundling member and inserted through the wire harness hole.

[0168] The harness hole includes a sealing member that watertightly seals a gap between the harness hole and the harness in a state where the harness is inserted through the harness hole. (8)

[0170] The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein:

[0171] A cover member is provided to cover the first waterproof case and the second waterproof case.

[0172] Further effects and modifications can be readily derived by 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 overarching inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0173] Description of the label

[0174] 1 Water faucet device

[0175] 2 Water spraying part

[0176] 3 main body of water faucet

[0177] 7 Controller

[0178] 31 solenoid valve (first solenoid valve)

[0179] 32 solenoid valve (second solenoid valve)

[0180] 33 solenoid valve (3rd solenoid valve)

[0181] 34 solenoid valve (4th solenoid valve)

[0182] 35 solenoid valve (5th solenoid valve)

[0183] 50 Water temperature adjustment unit (hot and cold water mixing unit)

[0184] 51 No. 1 Motor

[0185] 60 flow adjustment unit

[0186] 61 2nd motor

[0187] 200a 1st waterproof housing (1st motor housing)

[0188] 200b 1st waterproof housing (2nd motor housing)

[0189] 201 Second waterproof housing (controller housing)

[0190] 301 connecting hole

[0191] 302 connecting hole

[0192] 304 wiring harness

[0193] 305 wiring harness hole

[0194] 306 bundling parts (rubber insulation)

[0195] 307 sealing parts (wire protection sleeves)

[0196] 400 cover parts

[0197] 1000 bathrooms (bathroom units)

Claims

1. A water faucet device, comprising: a water spraying portion that sprays hot and cold water; and The faucet body is arranged inside the bathroom and supplies hot and cold water to the water spray part. The faucet body comprises: a flow-temperature adjustment unit for adjusting the flow rate and temperature of the hot and cold water sprayed from the water spray unit; a motor driving the flow-temperature adjustment unit; a controller for controlling the driving of the electric motor; a first waterproof housing that houses the motor and isolates the motor from the interior space of the bathroom; and a second waterproof housing that houses the controller and isolates the controller from the interior space of the bathroom; The first waterproof housing and the second waterproof housing are in communication with an external space of the bathroom.

2. The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein: Any one of the first waterproof housing and the second waterproof housing is communicated with the external space of the bathroom, and any other waterproof housing is communicated with the one waterproof housing.

3. The water faucet device according to claim 2, wherein: A wiring harness is provided to connect the motor and the controller. The wiring harness passes through a communication hole for connecting the first waterproof case and the second waterproof case.

4. The water faucet device according to claim 2, wherein: The motor includes a first motor for adjusting the temperature of hot and cold water and a second motor for adjusting the flow rate of hot and cold water. The first waterproof housing accommodates the first motor and the second motor respectively. The second waterproof housing is in communication with the external space of the bathroom. The first motor is arranged closer to a portion communicating with an external space of the bathroom than the second motor.

5. The water faucet device according to claim 2, wherein: The motor includes a first motor for adjusting the temperature of hot and cold water and a second motor for adjusting the flow rate of hot and cold water. The first waterproof housing includes a first motor housing for accommodating the first motor and a second motor housing for accommodating the second motor. The first motor housing communicates with an external space of the bathroom.

6. The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein: Any one of the first waterproof housing and the second waterproof housing is communicated with the external space of the bathroom, and any other waterproof housing is communicated with the first waterproof housing. The one waterproof housing is in communication with an external space of the bathroom via a hose member.

7. The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein: have: A plurality of solenoid valves for switching the flow paths of hot and cold water; and a plurality of wiring harnesses, which respectively connect the plurality of solenoid valves to the controller; The second waterproof housing has a harness hole for the harness to be inserted through. The plurality of wire harnesses are bundled together by a bundling member and inserted through the wire harness hole. The harness hole includes a sealing member that watertightly seals a gap between the harness hole and the harness in a state where the harness is inserted through the harness hole.

8. The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein: A cover member is provided to cover the first waterproof case and the second waterproof case.

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