Water hydrant device

Abstract

The present invention addresses the problem of shortening the time until the water discharge temperature is stable and improving the accuracy of temperature adjustment. A water hydrant device according to an embodiment includes a water discharge unit, a bath water mixing unit, an actuator, a control device, and an operation unit. The bath water mixing part is provided with a main body shell, a temperature sensing force applying part and a valve body. The control device is capable of executing: a water discharge mode in which, upon receiving information on a set temperature, the position of the valve body in the axial direction is adjusted by driving the actuator to a predetermined position or a predetermined drive amount corresponding to the set temperature; and a calibration mode for adjusting the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined drive amount in accordance with at least one of the set environment and the product quality variation.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Conventionally, it is known that in a water faucet device including an electronic thermostatic valve in which an actuator actuates an SMA (Shape Memory Alloy) thermostatic valve, feedback control of the actuator is performed 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. 2011-21328. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] In the aforementioned faucet system, repeated temperature control via feedback control by the actuator and temperature adjustment by the SMA results in a time-consuming process until the discharged water temperature stabilizes. Furthermore, without feedback control, the hot water temperature, hot water pressure, cold water temperature, and cold water pressure of the hot and cold water supply lines at each site vary. Consequently, the SMA temperature control valve's own self-operation cannot fully adjust the temperature based on these conditions, leading to variations in the discharged water temperature.

[0008] One aspect of the embodiment has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a water faucet device capable of shortening the time until the spouted water temperature stabilizes and improving the accuracy of temperature adjustment.

[0009] Means used to solve problems

[0010] The faucet device of one embodiment includes: a water spouting portion for spouting water into a bathroom; a bath water mixing portion for mixing bath water supplied to the water spouting portion; an actuator for operating the bath water mixing portion; a control device for controlling the driving of the actuator; and an operation portion for transmitting information on a set temperature to the control device through an operation by a user, wherein the bath water mixing portion includes: a main body housing formed with a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet, and a mixed bath water outlet; a temperature-sensing force-applying portion that changes according to the temperature of the mixed bath water and can adjust the temperature of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet. the opening of the water inlet; and a valve body assembled in the main body shell in a manner that can slide freely in the axial direction of the main body shell and can adjust the opening of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet, the control device can execute the following modes: a water spouting mode, which adjusts the axial position of the valve body by driving the actuator to a predetermined position or a predetermined drive amount corresponding to the set temperature when receiving the set temperature information; and a calibration mode, which adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined drive amount according to at least one of the set environment and product quality variation.

[0011] The faucet system can adjust for site-specific variations in hot water temperature, hot water pressure, cold water temperature, and cold water pressure from the hot and cold water supply lines, as well as individual differences in temperature adjustment by the SMA thermostatic valve. Consequently, the faucet system uses an actuator to activate the SMA thermostatic valve only when the set temperature is changed, allowing the SMA to perform temperature adjustment in the discharged water, resulting in highly accurate temperature adjustment corresponding to the set temperature. Furthermore, the faucet system maximizes the ability to shorten the time required for temperature stabilization when temperature or pressure fluctuations occur in the cold or hot water supply.

[0012] Furthermore, the faucet device includes a temperature sensor provided upstream or downstream of the bath water mixing portion, and the calibration mode adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount based on information from the temperature sensor.

[0013] When the faucet device enters the calibration mode, it automatically adjusts the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount. Thus, the faucet device can improve the user's usability.

[0014] Furthermore, the control device drives the actuator while the water jetting unit jets water, thereby executing the calibration mode.

[0015] The water faucet device drives the actuator while checking the actual environment during water discharge, thereby improving the calibration accuracy of the water faucet device.

[0016] Furthermore, the calibration mode can be executed by operating the operating unit.

[0017] The water faucet device can be calibrated using the remote controller used during normal water spouting operation.

[0018] Furthermore, in the calibration mode, the control device adjusts the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount based on a temperature change point determined by searching for three or more temperature change points.

[0019] The water faucet device can improve the accuracy of calibration by utilizing three or more temperature change points.

[0020] In addition, in the calibration mode, the control device obtains: a first temperature, which is the temperature of a temperature change point determined by exploring a temperature lower than a specified temperature as a target temperature; a second temperature, which is the temperature of a temperature change point determined by exploring the specified temperature as a target temperature; and a third temperature, which is the temperature of a temperature change point determined by exploring a temperature higher than the specified temperature as a target temperature, and adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined drive amount based on the second temperature and the first temperature, and the second temperature and the third temperature.

[0021] Although the characteristics of the temperature-sensing force-applying portion sometimes change with the specified temperature as the boundary, the faucet device adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined drive amount based on the temperature range lower than the specified temperature and the temperature range higher than the specified temperature, thereby suppressing the deviation of the set temperature when performing temperature adjustment across the specified temperature.

[0022] Furthermore, in the calibration mode, the control device adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount based on the temperature change point determined by searching for the temperature change points at two points.

[0023] The water faucet device can be calibrated without taking time while maintaining the calibration accuracy near the specified temperature.

[0024] Furthermore, in the calibration mode, the control device adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount based on a temperature change point determined by searching for a temperature change point.

[0025] The faucet device can shorten the time until calibration is completed.

[0026] In addition, the actuator is a motor. In the calibration mode, the water discharge temperature is detected by a temperature sensor arranged downstream of the bath water mixing part, and the control device adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount according to the driving amount of the motor and the water discharge temperature when the motor is at the driving amount.

[0027] Since the water faucet device performs simple operation processing based on the driving amount of the motor and the spouting water temperature, software processing can be simplified.

[0028] Furthermore, in the calibration mode, the hot water supply temperature is detected by a temperature sensor provided upstream of the bath water mixing unit, and the control device determines whether the hot water supply temperature is equal to or lower than a predetermined temperature.

[0029] The faucet device can confirm whether the hot water supply temperature is appropriate, and can notify the user whether the hot water supply temperature is appropriate according to the situation.

[0030] Furthermore, in the calibration mode, when the hot water supply temperature is equal to or lower than the predetermined temperature, the control device executes the water discharge mode using a table storing the set temperature in association with the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount.

[0031] When the hot water supply temperature is below the appropriate temperature, the water faucet device can suppress the discharge of hot water. Thus, the water faucet device can suppress a decrease in user usability.

[0032] Furthermore, the actuator is a motor, and in the calibration mode, the control device does not release the excitation of the motor.

[0033] After the motor is driven in small steps and then its excitation is released, the load applied to the motor may cause the motor to rebound to its original position. However, the water faucet device can eliminate the influence of this rebound, thereby accurately performing temperature control during calibration. This improves the accuracy of the water faucet device calibration.

[0034] Furthermore, in the calibration mode, the hot water supply temperature is detected by a temperature sensor provided upstream of the bath water mixing unit, and the control device starts adjusting the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount after the hot water supply temperature is stabilized.

[0035] The water faucet device can suppress the influence of heat absorption by the cooled casting or the heating response of the water heater, and accurately perform temperature control during calibration. As a result, the water faucet device can improve the accuracy of calibration.

[0036] Effects of the Invention

[0037] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the time until the discharge water temperature stabilizes can be shortened, and the accuracy of temperature adjustment can be improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a bathroom unit provided with a faucet device according to an embodiment;

[0039] Figure 2 is a front view of a remote control according to an embodiment;

[0040] Figure 3 This is a block diagram schematically showing a water faucet device according to an embodiment;

[0041] Figure 4 It is a three-dimensional diagram of the main body of the faucet;

[0042] Figure 5 It is a perspective view of a mixing faucet unit;

[0043] Figure 6 It is used Figure 5 A sectional perspective view taken along line VI-VI shown;

[0044] Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing the processing sequence of temperature adjustment control in the water spouting mode;

[0045] Figure 8 This is a flowchart showing the processing procedures of the initialization process and the hot water supply temperature determination process in the calibration mode;

[0046] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the processing sequence of a general optimization process in calibration mode;

[0047] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of temperature control table allocation processing in calibration mode;

[0048] Figure 11 This is an explanatory diagram for calculating the distribution coefficient;

[0049] Figure 12 This is an explanatory diagram for calculating the distribution coefficient;

[0050] Figure 13 This is an explanatory diagram of the calculation of the distribution coefficient. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] For example, Figure 1 As shown, the faucet device 1 according to the embodiment is provided in a bathroom unit 10 . Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of bathroom unit 10 in which faucet device 1 according to the embodiment is installed.

[0052] 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.

[0053] The bathroom unit 10 includes a bathtub 11, a first bathroom cabinet 12, a second bathroom cabinet 13, and a faucet device 1. It should be noted that, hereinafter, the term "bath water" will be used without distinguishing between cold water discharged from the faucet device 1 and mixed bath water, a mixture of hot and cold water, discharged from the faucet device 1.

[0054] The first bathroom cabinet 12 is attached to 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. It houses the faucet body 3 of the faucet device 1. A hot water waiting spout 25a is provided at the lower end of the first bathroom cabinet 12. This spout 25a is positioned so that the bath water is discharged downward.

[0055] The second bathroom cabinet 13 is mounted on the wall 14a. The second bathroom cabinet 13 protrudes from the wall 14a into the bathroom. The second bathroom cabinet 13 is positioned above the first bathroom cabinet 12. For example, the second bathroom cabinet 13 may extend above the bathtub 11. However, the second bathroom cabinet 13 does not necessarily need to extend above the bathtub 11.

[0056] A portion of the faucet device 1 is housed in the second bathroom cabinet 13. Specifically, a portion of the faucet 21 and a portion of the hand shower 22 of the faucet device 1 are housed in the second bathroom cabinet 13. The spout 21a of the faucet 21 is exposed in the second bathroom cabinet 13. The spout 21a of the faucet 21 is positioned in the second bathroom cabinet 13 so that the bath water is directed downward.

[0057] Furthermore, the shower hose 22a of the hand shower 22 of the faucet device 1 is connected to the second bathroom cabinet 13. The shower hose 22a is connected to a shower water conduit housed in the second bathroom cabinet 13.

[0058] The overhead shower head 23 of the faucet device 1 and the warm water column shower head 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 column shower head 24 are provided integrally.

[0059] Compared to the hand shower 22, the overhead shower 23 dispenses bath water over a wider area. For example, the overhead shower 23 is designed to drench the user's entire body with bath water. The warm water jet shower 24 collects and straightens the bath water into a single stream before dispensing it. In other words, the warm water jet shower 24 straightens and dispenses the bath water in a continuous columnar stream.

[0060] A remote controller 4 (operating unit) of the faucet device 1 is mounted on the wall 14b of the bathroom unit 10. The remote controller 4 can be mounted on the wall 14a where the first bathroom cabinet 12 and the second bathroom cabinet 13 are mounted.

[0061] 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 bath water in the faucet body 3. The remote controller 4 accepts the setting operation of the flow rate of the bath water in the faucet body 3. The remote controller 4 accepts the switching operation of the spouting and stopping of the bath water. The remote controller 4 accepts the switching operation of the spouting port of the bath water. When operated by the user, the remote controller 4 sends the operation signal corresponding to each operation to the control device 7 of the faucet device 1 (refer to Figure 3 ).

[0062] For example, Figure 2 As shown, the remote controller 4 includes 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.

[0063] The temperature adjustment buttons 41 are used to adjust the temperature of the mixed bath 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 bath water. The low temperature button 41b is used to decrease the temperature of the mixed bath water. It should be noted that the remote control 4 displays the set temperature of the mixed bath 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.

[0064] It should be noted that the temperature of the mixed bath water in the faucet body 3 can be adjusted within a predetermined temperature range. If the set temperature of the mixed bath water is lower than the lowest temperature in the predetermined temperature range by operating the low temperature button 41b, the faucet body 3 does not mix hot water with cold water, but instead dispenses cold water.

[0065] The water volume adjustment buttons 42 are buttons for adjusting the flow rate of the bath water discharged 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 a button for increasing the flow rate of the bath water. The water decrease button 42b is a button for decreasing the flow rate of the bath water. It should be noted that the remote control 4 displays the set state of the bath water volume on the second display unit 45b. When the water increase button 42a or the water decrease button 42b is operated, the display on the second display unit 45b changes according to the operation of each button 42a or 42b. It should be noted that the flow rate of the bath water discharged from the faucet device 1 can be adjusted within a specified flow rate range.

[0066] The switch button 43 is used to switch between the dispensing and stopping of bath water in the faucet device 1. Furthermore, the switch button 43 is used to switch the outlet for bath water 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 water jet shower button 43d. Each button 43a-43d can be switched between "ON" and "OFF" by the user by pressing it.

[0067] When the buttons 43a to 43d of the switching button 43 are "off", bath water is not discharged. That is, the faucet device 1 is in a water-stopping state.

[0068] When the buttons 43a to 43d of the switch buttons 43 are in the "off" state, if any of the switch buttons 43 is pressed and the pressed switch button 43 is turned "on", bath water is discharged. In other words, the faucet device 1 changes from the water stopping state to the water discharging state.

[0069] When any one of the switch buttons 43 is in the “on” state, pressing the other switch button 43 changes the switch button 43 in the “on” state, thereby enabling switching of the bath water spout.

[0070] For example, when hand shower button 43b is on, bath water flows from hand shower 22. In this state, pressing faucet button 43a switches hand shower button 43b to off, and faucet button 43a to on. This switches the bath water outlet from hand shower 22 to faucet 21, and bath water flows from faucet 21.

[0071] 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", thereby stopping the supply of bath water. In other words, the faucet device 1 changes from the water spouting state to the water stopping state.

[0072] It should be noted that each button 43a to 43d is configured so that the user can recognize the state of "on" and "off." For example, the switch button 43 in the "on" state is lit, and the switch button 43 in the "off" state is unlit.

[0073] It should be noted that, while the faucet device 1 is described here as an example in which bath water is dispensed from the overhead shower head 23, the warm water jet shower head 24, the hand shower head 22, and the faucet 21, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the faucet device 1 may be configured without the overhead shower head 23 and the warm water jet shower head 24.

[0074] Next, for an overview of the water faucet device 1 according to the embodiment, refer to Figure 3 Provide explanation. Figure 3 1 is a schematic block diagram showing the water faucet device 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 3 In the figure, the solid arrows represent the flow of bath water, and the dotted lines represent the communication lines.

[0075] 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 .

[0076] The plurality of water spouting parts 2 include a faucet 21, a hand shower 22, an overhead shower 23, a warm water jet shower 24, and a hot water waiting spouting port 25a connected to a surplus water discharge passage 25 (see Figure 1 ).

[0077] The faucet main body 3 includes a mixing faucet unit 50 , a water spouting switching portion 30 , and a control device 7 .

[0078] The mixing faucet unit 50 includes a bath 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 bath water mixing section 80 from the hot water supply source 37. Cold water is supplied to the bath water mixing section 80 from the cold water supply source 44. The temperature sensor 48 is located upstream of the bath water mixing section 80 and detects the temperature of the hot water supplied from the hot water supply source 37. The temperature sensor 49 is located downstream of the bath water mixing section 80 and detects the temperature of the bath water discharged from the bath water mixing section 80. A stopcock 38 is provided in the hot water supply passage 39 between the bath water mixing section 80 and the hot water supply source 37. A stopcock 45 is provided in the cold water supply passage 46 between the bath water mixing section 80 and the cold water supply source 44.

[0079] The bath water mixing unit 80 mixes hot water supplied from the hot water supply source 37 with cold water supplied from the cold water supply source 44. Specifically, the bath water mixing unit 80 switches whether to mix hot water with cold water. Furthermore, the bath water mixing unit 80 adjusts the ratio of hot water to cold water and the temperature of the mixed bath water.

[0080] The bath water mixing unit 80 includes a motor 62. The motor 62 is, for example, a stepping motor, and the rotation position (driving amount) of the motor 62 is controlled by the number of steps. The bath water mixing unit 80 drives the motor 62 in response to 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 ), toggle whether to mix hot water with cold water.

[0081] Furthermore, the bath water mixing unit 80 drives the motor 62 in response to the operation of the temperature adjustment button 41 of the remote controller 4, thereby driving the temperature adjustment valve 82 (see FIG. Figure 6 ) to adjust the ratio of hot water to cold water. Furthermore, even when the temperature adjustment button 41 is not operated, if, for example, the temperature of the hot water changes and the temperature of the mixed bath water changes, the bath 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 bath water, thereby automatically adjusting the temperature of the mixed bath water.

[0082] Bath water flows from the bath water mixing unit 80 into the flow rate adjustment unit 100. When bath water is discharged from the discharge unit 2, the flow rate adjustment unit 100 adjusts the flow rate of the discharged bath water.

[0083] 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. The flow control unit 100 drives the flow regulating valve 102 ( Figure 6 Refer to), adjust the flow of bath water.

[0084] The spouting switching unit 30 switches the spouting or stopping of bath water flowing from the mixing faucet unit 50. Specifically, the spouting switching unit 30 switches the spouting or stopping of bath water from the spouting unit 2. Furthermore, the spouting switching unit 30 switches the spouting port for bath water. The faucet device 1 switches the spouting or stopping of bath water from the spouting unit 2 using the spouting switching unit 30, and adjusts the flow rate of bath water during spouting using the flow adjustment unit 100.

[0085] 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 .

[0086] The first to fourth electromagnetic valves 31 to 34 can be switched to “OFF” or “ON” by operating the switching button 43 .

[0087] When the first to fourth solenoid valves 31 to 34 are "closed," bath water is not dispensed from the faucet 21, hand shower 22, overhead shower 23, and warm water jet shower 24. When any of the first to fourth solenoid valves 31 to 34 is "open," bath water is dispensed from any of the faucet 21, hand shower 22, overhead shower 23, and warm water jet shower 24 corresponding to the solenoid valve that is "open."

[0088] The first solenoid valve 31 switches the flow of bath water from the faucet 21 on and off. The second solenoid valve 32 switches the flow of bath water from the hand shower 22 on and off. The third solenoid valve 33 switches the flow of bath water from the overhead shower 23 on and off. The fourth solenoid valve 34 switches the flow of bath water from the warm water jet shower 24 on and off.

[0089] For example, when the first electromagnetic valve 31 is “open” and the second to fourth electromagnetic valves 32 to 34 are “closed”, bath water is discharged from the faucet 21 .

[0090] The fifth solenoid valve 35 switches between "off" and "on" depending on whether the remote control 4 switches the water discharge mode or whether an external device 6 (e.g., a remote control installed in the bathroom) is operated. The fifth solenoid valve 35 is used to drain excess water from the hose or piping of the hand shower 22 and other devices and is normally maintained in the "closed" position. Specifically, the fifth solenoid valve 35 is opened to handle excess water. When the fifth solenoid valve 35 is open, excess water is discharged from the hot water waiting outlet 25a via the excess water discharge path 25.

[0091] 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 operation of the remote controller 4. Furthermore, the control device 7 controls the fifth solenoid valve 35 based on the operation of the remote controller 4 or the external device 6, for example.

[0092] The control device 7 is a controller. For example, the control device 7 includes a microcomputer or various circuits including a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), and RAM (Random Access Memory). It should be noted that the control device 7 may include hardware such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0093] 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.

[0094] Next, refer to Figure 4 , the faucet main body 3 is described. Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the faucet main body 3. The faucet main body 3 includes a mixing faucet unit 50, a water spouting switching unit 30, and a control device 7 (see Figure 3 ) is further provided with a flow path unit 9. The faucet body 3 is attached to the wall portion 14a of the bathroom unit 10 through the flow path unit 9 (see Figure 1 ).

[0095] The flow path unit 9 is formed with a hot water supply path 39 (see Figure 3 ), which is supplied by the hot water source 37 (refer to Figure 3 ) supplied hot water flows into the mixing faucet unit 50; cold water supply passage 46 (refer to Figure 3 ), which is supplied by the cold water source 44 (refer to Figure 3 ) supplied cold water flows into the mixing faucet unit 50; and a flow path that allows bath water to flow from the mixing faucet unit 50 into each water spouting unit 2. It should be noted that the flow path unit 9 is provided with a water spouting switching unit 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, the flow path unit 9 is provided with a surplus water discharge flow path 25.

[0096] 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.

[0097] Next, refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the mixing faucet unit 50 is described in detail. Figure 5 It is a perspective view of the mixing faucet unit 50 . Figure 6 It is used Figure 5 The sectional perspective view is taken along the line VI-VI shown.

[0098] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the mixing faucet unit 50 includes a unit body 51, a temperature control motor 60, a flow control motor 70, a bath water mixing unit 80, and a flow rate adjustment unit 100. The unit body 51 of the mixing faucet unit 50 is provided with a spout 52, from which bath water is spouted.

[0099] The unit body 51 extends in the left-right direction. The bath water mixing unit 80 and the flow rate adjustment unit 100 are inserted into the unit body 51 in the left-right direction. That is, the insertion direction of the bath water mixing unit 80 and the flow rate adjustment unit 100 coincides with the left-right direction.

[0100] The left side of the unit body 51 is formed with a hot water supply passage 39 (see Figure 3 ) is connected to the hot water supply port 53. The middle part of the unit body 51 in the left-right direction is formed with a cold water supply passage 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.

[0101] 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 attached to the left end of the unit body 51 via a gasket 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 attached to the right end of the unit body 51 via a gasket 56. The motor 72 is located inside the cover 71.

[0102] Motor 62 is the actuator that operates bath water mixing unit 80. Motor 62 switches between mixing cold and hot water depending on its rotational position (drive amount). Furthermore, when dispensing mixed bath water, motor 62 sets the temperature of the mixed bath water based on its rotational position (drive amount). Motor 72 adjusts the flow rate of the bath water based on its rotational position (drive amount).

[0103] The bath water mixing unit 80 includes a main body housing 81 , a temperature regulating valve 82 , a temperature-sensitive spring 83 (temperature-sensitive urging portion), a biasing spring 84 , a packing 85 , and a main shaft 86 .

[0104] The main body housing 81 includes a first main body housing 87 and a second main body housing 88. A hot water inlet 87a, which serves as a hot water inlet for the interior space of the main body housing 81, and a cold water inlet 87b, which serves as a cold water inlet for the interior space, are formed on the peripheral wall of the first main body housing 87. A mixed bath 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 bath 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.

[0105] The outer peripheral space of the main body housing 81 is divided by sealing members, namely O-rings 89a, 89b, and 89c. As a result, 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.

[0106] A spouting flow path 91 is formed in the internal space of the main body housing 81 . The spouting flow path 91 is communicable with the spouting port 52 via the mixed bath water outflow port 88 a and the flow regulating valve 102 .

[0107] The temperature-sensitive spring 83 is housed in the second main body housing 88. It is located in the water discharge passage 91. The temperature-sensitive spring 83 is a spring whose spring constant changes depending on temperature and is made of, for example, a shape memory alloy (SMA). The temperature-sensitive spring 83 biases the thermostatic valve 82 leftward.

[0108] The bias spring 84 is housed in the first main body housing 87, which is located to the left of the second main body housing 88. The bias spring 84 is located 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.

[0109] The thermostatic valve 82 is disposed within 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 left-right in response to 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.

[0110] 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 and the opening of the cold water inlet 87b decreases. Consequently, the amount of hot water supplied to the water discharge passage 91 increases and the amount of cold water decreases, causing the temperature of the mixed bath water to rise. As the thermostatic valve 82 moves further to the left, the opening of the hot water inlet 87a decreases and the opening of the cold water inlet 87b increases. Consequently, the amount of hot water supplied to the main body casing 81 decreases and the amount of cold water increases, causing the temperature of the mixed bath water to drop.

[0111] The gasket 85 abuts against one end of the bias spring 84 on the side opposite to the thermostatic valve 82 and is connected to the motor 62 via the spindle 86. The spindle 86 converts the rotational motion of the motor 62 into horizontal linear motion of the gasket 85. Therefore, the gasket 85 moves in the horizontal direction in response to the rotation of the motor 62.

[0112] In the bath water mixing unit 80, the gasket 85 moves left and right depending on the rotational position of the motor 62, thereby changing the position of the left end of the bias spring 84. Therefore, depending on the rotational position of the motor 62, the bath water mixing unit 80 can adjust the position of the thermostatic valve 82 so that the applied force of the bias spring 84 and the applied force of the temperature-sensing spring 83 are balanced. Therefore, when dispensing mixed bath water, the bath water mixing unit 80 can set the temperature of the mixed bath water to a temperature corresponding to the rotational position of the motor 62.

[0113] Furthermore, when dispensing mixed bath water, for example, if the temperature of the hot water and the mixed bath water changes, the temperature-sensitive spring 83 expands and contracts according to the temperature of the mixed bath water, causing the thermostatic valve 82 to move left and right, thereby automatically changing the equilibrium position of the thermostatic valve 82. This allows the amount of hot water and cold water flowing into the water dispensing passage 91 to be adjusted, and the temperature of the mixed bath water to be automatically adjusted.

[0114] 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.

[0115] The flow regulating valve 102 is provided in the water discharge flow path 91. The flow regulating valve 102 rotates in response to the rotation of the motor 72. The flow regulating valve 102 has a communication port 102a formed therein. The flow regulating valve 102 is provided so as to face the water discharge port 52 of the unit body 51. The flow regulating valve 102 rotates in response to the rotation of the motor 72, thereby varying the flow rate by changing the area of ​​communication between the communication port 102a and the water discharge port 52.

[0116] 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, bath water is not spouted from the spouting unit 2.

[0117] For example, when the motor 72 rotates from the water stopping position to the water spouting position, the communication port 102a communicates with the water spouting port 52. As a result, bath water is spouted from the water spouting port 52.

[0118] The flow regulating valve 102 can change the area of ​​the communication port 102a communicating with the spouting port 52 according to the rotational position of the motor 72. That is, the flow rate adjustment unit 100 can adjust the flow rate of the bath water spouted from the spouting unit 2 according to the rotational position of the motor 72.

[0119] It should be noted that the control device 7 does not perform fine-tuning via feedback control during the temperature and flow control of the faucet device 1. Furthermore, even when transitioning from the water-discharging state to the water-stopping state, the motors 62 and 72 are not restored to their home positions (the control reference position) every time the water stops. Therefore, it is conceivable that a loss of synchronism, etc., could occur, and the gradual accumulation of such events could lead to a shift in the opening position of the motors 62 and 72. To prevent this, the control device 7 performs a "home return" process, which returns the motors 62 and 72 to their home positions, at regular intervals or during calibration.

[0120] Next, refer to Figures 7 to 13 , the temperature control of the faucet device 1 is described. Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of temperature adjustment control in the water discharge mode. Figure 8 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 9 This is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the normal optimization process in the calibration mode. Figure 10 This is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the temperature control table allocation process in the calibration mode. Figures 11 to 13 This is a diagram illustrating the calculation of the distribution coefficient.

[0121] The control device 7 can execute a "water discharge mode" and a "calibration mode." In the "water discharge mode," upon receiving a set temperature from the remote controller 4, the motor 62 is driven to a predetermined rotational position or a predetermined drive amount corresponding to the set temperature, thereby adjusting the axial position of the thermostatic valve 82. In the "calibration mode," the predetermined rotational position or drive amount is adjusted based on at least one of the set environment (water pressure, hot water supply temperature) and product quality variations.

[0122] First, the processing procedure of the temperature adjustment control in the "water discharge mode" will be described.

[0123] like Figure 7 As shown, the control device 7 receives a request to change the temperature adjustment setting from the remote controller 4 (step S101).

[0124] 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 .

[0125] Next, the control device 7 obtains the temperature adjustment correction value from the remote controller 4 (step S103). The temperature adjustment correction value is a value used to correct the temperature adjustment set value to a higher or lower temperature. The temperature adjustment correction value is preset by the remote controller 4.

[0126] 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. For example, the temperature adjustment opening table is data that associates set temperatures with the rotational positions 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.

[0127] According to such temperature control, the water faucet device 1 does not need to constantly check the current output as in feedback control. In addition, since the water faucet device 1 does not repeatedly execute processing, it can be installed with a simple process.

[0128] 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 selects "Calibration" from the setting screen entered by simultaneously pressing and holding the low temperature button 41a and the water increase button 42a of the remote control 4 for three seconds, the display unit displays whether the "calibration mode" is to be executed. Then, when the user selects "Execute calibration mode" with the remote control 4, the calibration mode is executed. In addition, during the execution of the calibration mode, the display unit of the remote control 4 displays "Calibration mode in execution". Since calibration can be performed by the remote control 4 used in normal water spouting operations, the faucet device 1 does not require a dedicated setting remote control. It should be noted that it can be set so 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.

[0129] 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 executed.

[0130] like Figure 8As shown, the control device 7 returns the motors 62 and 72 to their origins and opens the fifth solenoid valve 35 (step S201). By opening the fifth solenoid valve 35, the faucet device 1 performs calibration while discharging water from the hot water standby outlet 25a. The control device 7 drives the motor 62 while confirming the actual discharging environment, thereby improving calibration accuracy.

[0131] Next, the control device 7 drives the motor 62 to reach a first predetermined temperature (step S202). For example, the first predetermined temperature is set to 42 degrees Celsius.

[0132] Next, the control device 7 determines whether a first predetermined time has elapsed since the motor 62 was driven (step S203). For example, the first predetermined time is set to 5 minutes.

[0133] If it is determined that the first predetermined time has elapsed since the motor 62 was driven (step S203: YES), the control device 7 ends the calibration process. In this case, the control device 7 ends the process without updating the temperature adjustment opening degree table.

[0134] 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 detected by the temperature sensor 48 (hot water temperature) is higher 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 source 37, i.e., the water heater, is on.

[0135] 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 .

[0136] If the temperature of the hot water detected by the temperature sensor 48 is determined to be higher 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 by determining whether the temperature of the hot water detected by the temperature sensor 48 is within a predetermined range for a predetermined period of time.

[0137] 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 returns the motor 62 to its original position (step S206) and enters the process of Figure 9 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 cooling casting in the case of the casting, or the influence of the heating response of the water heater, so that the temperature control is accurately performed during calibration. As a result, the control device 7 can improve the accuracy of calibration.

[0138] If it is determined that the hot water supply temperature is not stable above the third predetermined temperature (step S205: No), the control device 7 determines that the hot water supply temperature is below the suitable 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 passage 46, a water temperature of 40°C in the hot water supply passage 39, and a pressure of 0.2 MPa). Thus, when the hot water supply temperature is lower than the third predetermined temperature, the control device 7 uses a dedicated table for control. This allows the faucet device 1 to confirm whether the hot water supply temperature is the suitable temperature and, depending on the situation, to display the appropriate temperature on the remote control 4 to notify the user. When the hot water supply temperature is lower than the third predetermined temperature, the faucet device 1 can suppress the dispensing of warm water. This allows the faucet device 1 to minimize degradation in user usability.

[0139] Next, the control device 7 performs origin return of the motor 62 (step S208 ).

[0140] Next, the controller 7 drives the motors 62 and 72 to their default positions (step S209), and then terminates the calibration process. For example, the default position of the motor 62 is the rotational position of the motor 62 corresponding to the midpoint 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 midpoint of the flow rate.

[0141] Next, the processing procedure of the normal optimization process in the "calibration mode" will be described.

[0142] like Figure 9 As shown, the control device 7 performs PID control according to the first target temperature (step S210). Specifically, the control device 7 uses PID control to calculate the rotational position of the motor 62 that sets the first target temperature as the 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 a limitation. Various control methods can be used to ensure that the discharged water temperature is consistent with the target temperature.

[0143] 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.

[0144] When it is determined that the PID control since 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).

[0145] When it is determined that the state at 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 .

[0146] 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 drive amount (number of steps) of the motor 62 and the temperature (first temperature) of the mixed bath water detected by the temperature sensor 49 at the time of step S213 as the temperature change point.

[0147] Next, the control device 7 performs PID control according to the second target temperature (step S214). Specifically, the control device 7 uses PID control to calculate the rotational position of the motor 62 that sets 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.

[0148] 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 ).

[0149] 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 ).

[0150] 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 .

[0151] 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 and the temperature (second temperature) of the mixed bath water detected by the temperature sensor 49 at the time of step S217 as the temperature change point.

[0152] Next, the control device 7 performs PID control based on the third target temperature (step S218). Specifically, the control device 7 uses PID control to calculate the rotational position of the motor 62 that would set the third target temperature as the target temperature, and drives the motor 62 to reach the calculated rotational position. For example, the third target temperature is set to 45°C.

[0153] 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 ).

[0154] 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 ).

[0155] When it is determined that the rotation position of the motor 62 has not reached the upper limit rotation 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 ).

[0156] 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 .

[0157] If it is determined that the third predetermined time has continued since the start of the PID control in step S218 (step S219: Yes), or if 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 enters the Figure 10 In step S222 , specifically, the control device 7 records the driving amount (number of steps) of the motor 62 and the temperature (third temperature) of the mixed bath water detected by the temperature sensor 49 at the time of step S222 .

[0158] If it is determined that the rotation upper limit 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.

[0159] Next, the control device 7 sets the rotation upper limit position as the rotation position for the third target temperature (step S224 ).

[0160] Next, the control device 7 records data based on the exploration results (step S222), and enters Figure 10 In step S222, specifically, the control device 7 records the rotation upper limit position of the motor 62 and the temperature (third temperature) of the mixed bath water detected by the temperature sensor 49 as temperature change points.

[0161] like Figure 11 As shown, on a graph with the rotation position of the motor 62 as the horizontal axis and the temperature of the mixed bath water detected by the temperature sensor 49 as the vertical axis, the temperature change point recorded in step S213 is marked as point A, the temperature change point recorded in step S217 is marked as point B, and the temperature change point recorded in step S222 is marked as point C.

[0162] Next, the processing procedure of the temperature adjustment table allocation process in the "calibration mode" will be described.

[0163] like Figure 10 As shown in FIG. 2 , the control device 7 calculates the distribution coefficient (step S225). Specifically, the control device 7 calculates Figure 12 The slope and intercept of the linear equation of the straight line AB connecting point A (s1, t1) and point B (s2, t2) are calculated, and Figure 13 The slope and intercept of the linear equation of the line BC connecting point B (s2, t2) and point 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.

[0164] Next, the control device 7 closes the fifth electromagnetic valve 35 (step S226). The control device 7 stops the water spouting from the hot water standby spouting port 25a by closing the fifth electromagnetic valve 35.

[0165] 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 control 4). For example, when the set temperature is 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, when the set temperature is higher than 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.

[0166] It should be noted that the rotational position of the motor 62 is calculated based on three temperature change points. However, this is not particularly limited to the present invention. 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 order of increasing target temperatures. Similarly to the three-point case, the rotational position of the motor 62 may be calculated for each set temperature. By utilizing three or more temperature change points, the control device 7 can improve calibration accuracy.

[0167] 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 using the rotation position of the motor 62 calculated in step S227.

[0168] Next, the control device 7 performs origin return of the motor 62 (step S229 ).

[0169] Next, the control device 7 drives the motor 62 and the motor 72 to the default position (step S230 ), and then ends the process.

[0170] As shown above, in the faucet device 1, when the control device 7 receives the information of the set temperature, it can drive the motor 62 to a predetermined rotation position or a predetermined drive amount corresponding to the set temperature to execute a water spouting mode for adjusting the axial position of the temperature regulating valve 82, and a calibration mode for adjusting the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined drive amount according to at least one of the set environment and product quality variation.

[0171] By implementing this control, the faucet device 1 can adjust for site-specific variations in the hot water temperature, hot water pressure, cold water temperature, and cold water pressure from the hot water supply line 39 and the cold water supply line 46, as well as individual differences in temperature control by the SMA thermostatic valve. Consequently, the faucet device 1 operates the thermostatic valve 82 using the motor 62 only when the set temperature is changed, and only the temperature of the discharged water is adjusted by the temperature-sensing spring 83, enabling highly accurate temperature adjustment corresponding to the set temperature. Furthermore, the faucet device 1 maximizes the ability to shorten the time required for temperature stabilization when changes in the temperature or pressure of the cold or hot water supply occur.

[0172] Furthermore, the control device 7 includes a temperature sensor 48 and a temperature sensor 49 provided upstream and downstream of the bath water mixing unit 80 . The calibration mode adjusts the setting of the predetermined rotation position or the predetermined drive amount based on information from the temperature sensor 48 .

[0173] By performing such control, the water faucet device 1 automatically adjusts a predetermined position or a predetermined driving amount when it enters the calibration mode.

[0174] In addition, in the calibration mode, the control device 7 obtains: a first temperature, which is the temperature of a temperature change point determined by exploring a temperature lower than the second target temperature as a target temperature; a second temperature, which is the temperature of a temperature change point determined by exploring the second target temperature as a target temperature; and a third temperature, which is the temperature of a temperature change point determined by exploring a temperature higher than the second target temperature as a target temperature, and adjusts the setting of the predetermined rotation position or the predetermined drive amount based on the second temperature and the first temperature, and the second temperature and the third temperature.

[0175] By controlling in this way, although the characteristics of the temperature-sensitive spring 83 sometimes change with the second target temperature (40°C) as the boundary, the faucet device 1 adjusts the setting of the predetermined rotation position or the predetermined drive amount based on the temperature range lower than the second target temperature (the temperature in the straight line AB) and the temperature range higher than the second target temperature (the temperature in the straight line BC), thereby suppressing the deviation of the set temperature when performing temperature adjustment across the specified temperature.

[0176] In addition, the actuator is a motor 62. In the calibration mode, the water discharge temperature is detected by a temperature sensor 49 arranged downstream of the bath water mixing section 80. The control device 7 adjusts the setting of the predetermined rotation position or the predetermined drive amount according to the drive amount (number of steps) of the motor 62 and the water discharge temperature when the motor 62 is at the drive amount (number of steps).

[0177] By performing control in this manner, the water faucet device 1 performs simple operation processing based on the driving amount (number of steps) of the motor 62 and the spouting water temperature, and therefore software processing can be simplified.

[0178] In addition, in the calibration mode, the control device 7 does not open the excitation of the motor 62. In other words, in the calibration mode, the control device 7 maintains the energized state of the motor 62.

[0179] By performing such control, after the motor 62 is driven in small steps and then the excitation of the motor 62 is released, although the load applied to the motor 62 may cause the motor 62 to rebound to its original position, the water faucet device 1 can eliminate the influence of this rebound and accurately perform temperature control during calibration. As a result, the water faucet device 1 can improve the accuracy of calibration.

[0180] The temperature change points in the above calibration mode are three, but this is not particularly limited and can be two or one.

[0181] Specifically, in calibration mode, the control device 7 can adjust the predetermined rotational position or predetermined drive amount based on the temperature change points determined by searching for two temperature change points. For example, the two temperature change points can be temperatures near the second target temperature (40°C). Similar to calibration with three temperature change points, the control device 7 calculates the distribution coefficient for the two temperature change points and calculates the rotational position of the motor 62 for each set temperature.

[0182] By performing control in this manner, the water faucet device 1 can perform calibration without taking time while maintaining the accuracy of calibration near the second target temperature.

[0183] Alternatively, in calibration mode, the control device 7 can adjust the predetermined rotational position or predetermined drive amount based on a temperature change point determined by searching for a single temperature change point. For example, the single temperature change point can be a temperature corresponding to the second target temperature (40°C). Based on the single temperature change point and a pre-set distribution coefficient, the control device 7 calculates the rotational position of the motor 62 for each set temperature.

[0184] By performing control in this manner, the water faucet device 1 can shorten the time until calibration is completed.

[0185] Further effects or 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 general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0186] <Note>

[0187] (1) A water faucet device comprising:

[0188] a water spouting unit for spouting water into the bathroom;

[0189] a bath water mixing unit for mixing bath water supplied to the water spouting unit;

[0190] an actuator for actuating the bath water mixing unit;

[0191] a control device that controls driving of the actuator; and

[0192] an operating unit that transmits information on the set temperature to the control device through an operation by a user,

[0193] The bath water mixing unit comprises:

[0194] The main body shell is formed with a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet, and a mixed bath water outlet;

[0195] a temperature-sensitive force-applying portion whose opening varies according to the temperature of the mixed bath water and is capable of adjusting the opening degrees of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet; and

[0196] The valve body is assembled in the main body shell in a manner that can slide freely in the axial direction of the main body shell and can adjust the opening of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet.

[0197] The control device can execute the following modes:

[0198] a water spouting mode, which adjusts the axial position of the valve body by driving the actuator to a predetermined position or a predetermined driving amount corresponding to the set temperature when receiving the set temperature information; and

[0199] A calibration mode adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount according to at least one of a set environment and a product quality variation.

[0200] (2) The water faucet device according to (1), wherein:

[0201] The faucet device includes a temperature sensor, which is provided upstream or downstream of the bath water mixing portion.

[0202] The calibration mode adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined drive amount based on information from the temperature sensor.

[0203] (3) The water faucet device according to (1) or (2), wherein:

[0204] The control device drives the actuator while the water jetting unit jets water, thereby executing the calibration mode.

[0205] (4) The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein:

[0206] The calibration mode can be executed by operating the operating unit.

[0207] (5) The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein:

[0208] In the calibration mode,

[0209] The control device adjusts the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount based on a temperature change point determined by searching for three or more temperature change points.

[0210] (6) The water faucet device according to (5), wherein:

[0211] In the calibration mode,

[0212] The control device acquires: a first temperature, which is a temperature of a temperature change point determined by searching for a temperature lower than a specified temperature as a target temperature; a second temperature, which is a temperature of a temperature change point determined by searching for the specified temperature as a target temperature; and a third temperature, which is a temperature of a temperature change point determined by searching for a temperature higher than the specified temperature as a target temperature, and

[0213] The setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount is adjusted based on the second temperature and the first temperature, and the second temperature and the third temperature.

[0214] (7) The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein:

[0215] In the calibration mode,

[0216] The control device adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount based on the temperature change point determined by searching for the temperature change points of the two points.

[0217] (8) The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein:

[0218] In the calibration mode,

[0219] The control device adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount based on a temperature change point determined by searching for a temperature change point.

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

[0221] The actuator is a motor,

[0222] In the calibration mode,

[0223] The temperature of the discharged water is detected by a temperature sensor provided downstream of the bath water mixing unit.

[0224] The control device adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount according to the driving amount of the motor and the water discharge temperature when the motor is driven at the driving amount.

[0225] (10) The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein:

[0226] In the calibration mode,

[0227] The hot water supply temperature is detected by a temperature sensor provided upstream of the bath water mixing unit.

[0228] The control device determines whether the hot water supply temperature is lower than or equal to a predetermined temperature.

[0229] (11) The water faucet device according to (10), wherein:

[0230] In the calibration mode,

[0231] When the hot water supply temperature is equal to or lower than the predetermined temperature, the control device executes the water discharge mode using a table storing the set temperature in association with the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount.

[0232] (12) The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (11), wherein:

[0233] The actuator is a motor,

[0234] In the calibration mode, the control device does not release the excitation of the motor.

[0235] (13) The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (12), wherein:

[0236] In the calibration mode,

[0237] The hot water supply temperature is detected by a temperature sensor provided upstream of the bath water mixing unit.

[0238] The control device starts adjusting the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount after the hot water supply temperature is stabilized.

[0239] Explanation of symbols:

[0240] 1 Water faucet device

[0241] 2 Water spouting part (operating part)

[0242] 4 Remote Control

[0243] 7 Control device

[0244] 10 bathroom units

[0245] 21 faucet (water spout)

[0246] 22 Hand shower (spray part)

[0247] 23 Overhead shower (spraying part)

[0248] 24 Warm water column shower head (water spray part)

[0249] 25a Hot water waiting outlet (water spouting part)

[0250] 48 Temperature Sensor

[0251] 49 Temperature Sensor

[0252] 50 Mixing faucet units

[0253] 51 unit body

[0254] 62 motor (actuator)

[0255] 80 Bath water mixing unit

[0256] 81 Main body shell

[0257] 82 Thermostatic valve (valve body)

[0258] 83 Temperature sensing spring (temperature sensing force applying part)

[0259] 87 First main body shell

[0260] 87a Hot water inlet

[0261] 87b cold water inlet

[0262] 88 second main body shell

[0263] 88a Mixed bath water outlet

[0264] Th_f hot water supply temperature.

Claims

1. A water faucet device comprising: a water spouting unit for spouting water into the bathroom; a bath water mixing unit for mixing bath water supplied to the water spouting unit; an actuator for actuating the bath water mixing unit; a control device that controls the driving of the actuator; as well as an operating unit that transmits information on the set temperature to the control device through an operation by a user, The bath water mixing unit comprises: The main body shell is formed with a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet, and a mixed bath water outlet; a temperature-sensing force-applying portion, which changes according to the temperature of the mixed bath water and is capable of adjusting the opening of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet; as well as The valve body is assembled in the main body shell in a manner that can slide freely in the axial direction of the main body shell and can adjust the opening of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet. The control device can execute the following modes: a water spouting mode, which adjusts the axial position of the valve body by driving the actuator to a predetermined position or a predetermined driving amount corresponding to the set temperature upon receiving the set temperature information; and A calibration mode adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount according to at least one of a set environment and a product quality variation.

2. The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein: The faucet device includes a temperature sensor, which is provided upstream or downstream of the bath water mixing portion. The calibration mode adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined drive amount based on information from the temperature sensor.

3. The water faucet device according to claim 2, wherein: The control device drives the actuator while the water jetting unit jets water, thereby executing the calibration mode.

4. The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein: The calibration mode can be executed by operating the operating unit.

5. The water faucet device according to claim 3, wherein: In the calibration mode, The control device adjusts the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount based on a temperature change point determined by searching for three or more temperature change points.

6. The water faucet device according to claim 5, wherein: In the calibration mode, The control device acquires: a first temperature, which is a temperature of a temperature change point determined by searching for a temperature lower than a predetermined temperature as a target temperature; a second temperature, which is a temperature of a temperature change point determined by searching for the predetermined temperature as the target temperature; and a third temperature, which is a temperature of a temperature change point determined by searching for a temperature higher than the predetermined temperature as a target temperature, and The setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount is adjusted based on the second temperature and the first temperature, and the second temperature and the third temperature.

7. The water faucet device according to claim 3, wherein: In the calibration mode, The control device adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount based on the temperature change point determined by searching for the temperature change points of the two points.

8. The water faucet device according to claim 3, wherein: In the calibration mode, The control device adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount based on a temperature change point determined by searching for a temperature change point.

9. The water faucet device according to claim 3, wherein: The actuator is a motor, In the calibration mode, The temperature of the discharged water is detected by a temperature sensor provided downstream of the bath water mixing unit. The control device adjusts the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount according to the driving amount of the motor and the water discharge temperature when the motor is driven at the driving amount.

10. The water faucet device according to claim 3, wherein: In the calibration mode, The hot water supply temperature is detected by a temperature sensor provided upstream of the bath water mixing unit. The control device determines whether the hot water supply temperature is lower than a predetermined temperature.

11. The water faucet device according to claim 10, wherein: In the calibration mode, When the hot water supply temperature is equal to or lower than the predetermined temperature, the control device executes the water discharge mode using a table storing the set temperature in association with the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount.

12. The water faucet device according to claim 3, wherein: The actuator is a motor, In the calibration mode, the control device does not release the excitation of the motor.

13. The water faucet device according to claim 3, wherein: In the calibration mode, The hot water supply temperature is detected by a temperature sensor provided upstream of the bath water mixing unit. The control device starts adjusting the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined driving amount after the hot water supply temperature is stabilized.

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