Faucet

Abstract

To allow for timely replacement of water purification cartridges.SOLUTION: A faucet includes a sensor unit 10 having independent first and second sensor surfaces with different detection directions. The sensor unit 10 detects an operation input related to the discharge of raw water on a first sensor surface 11, and detects an operation input related to the discharge of purified water on the second sensor surface. The sensor unit 10 also includes a raw water discharge display unit 41 that outputs a display related to the discharge of raw water to the first sensor surface 11. The sensor unit 10 also includes a purified water discharge display unit that outputs a display related to the discharge of purified water to the second sensor surface. The sensor unit 10 includes an exchange display unit 60 that outputs a display to the first and second sensor surfaces to encourage the replacement of a purified water cartridge used for producing purified water.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a water faucet. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there are faucets that can selectively discharge purified water produced by a water purifier and raw water. For example, the faucet shown in Patent Document 1 is equipped with a sensor device that detects, in a non-contact manner, an operation input related to the discharge of raw water and an operation input related to the discharge of purified water.

[0003] Specifically, the sensor device detects an input operation related to the discharge of raw water from one side of the discharge pipe, which is the right side when viewed from the front. The sensor device also detects an input operation related to the discharge of purified water from the other side of the discharge pipe, which is the left side when viewed from the front. This allows the faucet of the prior art to selectively start and stop the discharge of raw water and the discharge of purified water based on the direction in which the user holds their hand near the discharge pipe. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2007-138574 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, most water purifiers require periodic replacement of the water purification cartridge used to purify the water. For this reason, it is desirable to replace the water purification cartridge of the above-mentioned faucet at an appropriate time. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Various aspects of a faucet that solves the above problems will be described. Aspect 1 is a faucet comprising a sensor unit having independent first and second sensor surfaces with different detection directions, the sensor unit detects an operational input related to the discharge of raw water on the first sensor surface and detects an operational input related to the discharge of purified water on the second sensor surface, and is equipped with a raw water discharge display unit that performs a display output related to the discharge of the raw water on the first sensor surface, a purified water discharge display unit that performs a display output related to the discharge of the purified water on the second sensor surface, and a replacement display unit that performs a display output related to the first and second sensor surfaces to encourage the replacement of a water purification cartridge used to purify the purified water.

[0007] According to the above configuration, a display output is executed not only on the second sensor surface that detects the operation input related to the discharge of purified water, but also on the first sensor surface that detects the operation input related to the discharge of raw water, urging the user of the faucet to replace the water purification cartridge. As a result, regardless of the type of water to be discharged, a display output can be effectively executed in the direction of the operation input to urge the user of the faucet to replace the water purification cartridge. This allows the user of the faucet to properly replace the water purification cartridge.

[0008] Aspect 2 is a faucet of Aspect 1, which is provided with a sensor unit provided on a water outlet pipe, and in which, when viewed from the front of the water outlet pipe, the first side direction of the sensor unit is the detection direction of the first sensor surface, and the second side direction is the detection direction of the second sensor surface.

[0009] According to the above configuration, when viewed from the front of the discharge pipe, operation input related to the discharge of raw water can be made without contact on one of the left and right sides of the discharge pipe, and operation input related to the discharge of purified water can be made without contact on the other of the left and right sides of the discharge pipe. Furthermore, even for users who often use the faucet at a position on the second side direction where the first sensor face is difficult to see, when using raw water, a display output is executed on the first sensor face, which is more easily visible, to encourage replacement of the purified water cartridge. This makes it possible to effectively notify users of the faucet that replacement of the purified water cartridge is recommended.

[0010] Aspect 3 is a faucet of Aspect 2, in which the sensor unit is provided at the rear position of the discharge pipe when viewed from the front, and the width dimension when viewed from the front is equal to or smaller than that of the discharge pipe.

[0011] According to the above configuration, the sensor unit is easily hidden in the water discharge pipe. This allows for an excellent design. However, on the other hand, depending on the positional relationship with the user, it becomes even more difficult to see either the first or second sensor surface. Therefore, by applying the configuration of the above aspect 1 to such a configuration, a more significant effect can be obtained.

[0012] Aspect 4 is a faucet of any one of Aspects 1 to 3, wherein the replacement display unit performs the display output for the second sensor surface in conjunction with the purified water discharge display unit, and performs the display output for the first sensor surface in conjunction with the raw water discharge display unit.

[0013] That is, a user of purified water is likely to pay attention to the display output related to the discharge of purified water executed on the second sensor surface, and a user of raw water is likely to pay attention to the display output related to the discharge of raw water executed on the first sensor surface. Therefore, according to the above configuration, it is possible to effectively notify a user of the faucet that replacement of the purified water cartridge is recommended.

[0014] A fifth aspect is the faucet according to the fourth aspect, wherein the replacement display unit executes a flashing output synchronized with the purified water discharge display unit and the raw water discharge display unit as the display output. That is, the blinking output makes it easier for the user of the faucet to notice the display output. By synchronizing the blinking output of the replacement display unit with the blinking outputs of the purified water discharge display unit and the raw water discharge display unit, it is possible to more effectively notify the user of the faucet that the replacement of the water purification cartridge is recommended.

[0015] Aspect 6 is a faucet as described in aspect 5, wherein the replacement display unit has a first alarm period during which the synchronized flashing output is executed, and a second alarm period after the first alarm period has elapsed, during which the flashing output is executed faster than the first alarm period.

[0016] That is, by having the first and second notification periods, different meanings can be imparted to the display output that encourages replacement of the water purification cartridge during the first and second notification periods. For example, during the first notification period, a notice can be given in advance that replacement of the water purification cartridge is recommended, and during the second notification period that follows, a notice can be given that the water purification cartridge should be replaced early. In particular, a sense of urgency can be created by flashing the output during the second notification period more quickly than during the first notification period. This makes it possible to more effectively notify the user of the faucet that replacement of the water purification cartridge is recommended. Effect of the Invention

[0017] According to the present invention, the water purification cartridge can be appropriately replaced. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a faucet. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a right side view of the discharge pipe. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a left side view of the discharge pipe. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front view of the discharge pipe. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a faucet. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a right side view of the vicinity of the sensor unit. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a left side view of the vicinity of the sensor unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram of a display output relating to the discharge of raw water. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of the display output regarding the discharge of purified water. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a display output that urges replacement of the water purification cartridge in conjunction with the display output regarding the discharge of purified water. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a display output that urges replacement of the water purification cartridge in conjunction with the display output regarding the discharge of raw water. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a time chart showing the display output during the non-notification period. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a time chart showing a display output mode in the first notification period. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a time chart showing a display output mode in the second notification period. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0019] Hereinafter, one embodiment of a faucet will be described with reference to the drawings. (Gooseneck faucet) As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the faucet 1 of this embodiment has a configuration as a so-called gooseneck faucet, which has a faucet body 2 and a substantially U-shaped discharge pipe 3 provided above the faucet body 2.

[0020] More specifically, in the faucet 1 of this embodiment, the faucet body 2 has a generally cylindrical outer shape and is erected on a wall 4 constituting, for example, a kitchen cabinet counter. The discharge pipe 3 has a base end 3b that extends upward by being fixed to the faucet body 2, a curved portion 3c that is continuous with the base end 3b, and a tip end 3a that is continuous with the curved portion 3c and extends downward. The faucet 1 of this embodiment is provided with a water discharge unit 6 that forms the water outlet 5 of the discharge pipe 3 while being fixed to the tip end 3a of the discharge pipe 3.

[0021] That is, in the faucet 1 of this embodiment, when the tip 3a of the discharge pipe 3 is located on the front side and the base end 3b is located on the back side, the position where the tip 3a and base end 3b of the discharge pipe 3 overlap is defined as the "front" of the discharge pipe 3 (see FIG. 4). In addition, in the faucet 1 of this embodiment, the faucet body 2 is provided with a lever handle 7 that protrudes to the side of the faucet body 2. Note that the lever handle 7 of this embodiment is configured as a rotating lever having a rotation axis that intersects with the axis of the faucet body 2, which is substantially cylindrical. Furthermore, inside the faucet body 2, a valve mechanism is provided that is configured to be able to switch the connection state between the discharge flow path 8 formed inside the discharge pipe 3 and the water supply pipe based on the operation state of the lever handle 7 (both are not shown). Note that the discharge flow path 8 of this embodiment is configured by a hose (not shown) built into the discharge pipe 3. The faucet 1 of this embodiment is configured so that a user of the faucet 1 can manually adjust the discharge state of water flowing out from the water outlet 5 set at the tip 3a of the water outlet pipe 3.

[0022] (Automatic faucet with sensor) The faucet 1 of this embodiment is configured as an automatic faucet with a sensor, which includes a sensor unit 10 that detects the water discharge operation by a user in a non-contact manner.

[0023] More specifically, in the faucet 1 of this embodiment, the sensor unit 10 is provided integrally with the water discharge pipe 3. Furthermore, the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment detects the hand or the like of a user that is in close proximity to the sensor unit 10. Thus, the faucet 1 of this embodiment is configured to be able to discharge water according to the user's request based on the user's non-contact operation.

[0024] Specifically, the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment is provided at the back position of the water discharge pipe 3 in a front view of the water discharge pipe 3. More specifically, the sensor unit 10 is fixed to the tip 3a constituting the water outlet 5 of the water discharge pipe 3 of this embodiment having a substantially U-shaped external shape, and to the back position βa on the water discharge side formed at the boundary between the tip 3a and the curved portion 3c. Furthermore, the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment is designed so that, when fixed to the back position βa of the water discharge pipe 3, its widthwise dimension D1 in a front view is substantially equal to the dimension D0 of the water discharge pipe 3 in the front view (D1 ≒ D0). More specifically, the dimension D0 of the water discharge pipe 3 and the dimension D1 of the sensor unit 10 are substantially equal, and the sensor unit 10 is slightly wider. Thus, the faucet 1 of this embodiment is configured so that the sensor unit 10 is easily hidden by the water discharge pipe 3 in a front view of the water discharge pipe 3.

[0025] More specifically, the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment is configured so that the external shape of the sensor unit 10 fixed to the discharge pipe 3 is approximately symmetrical when viewed from the front of the discharge pipe 3. The sensor unit 10 also has a first sensor surface 11 facing a first side direction α1, which is the right side of the discharge pipe 3 (right side in FIG. 4), when viewed from the front of the discharge pipe 3. The sensor unit 10 also has a second sensor surface 12 facing a second side direction α2, which is the left side of the discharge pipe 3 (left side in FIG. 4), when viewed from the front of the discharge pipe 3. The sensor unit 10 of this embodiment is thus configured so that the first and second sensor surfaces 11, 12 have different detection directions that are independent of each other.

[0026] That is, the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment detects an object located to the right of the water discharge pipe 3 on the first sensor surface 11. The sensor unit 10 also detects an object located to the left of the water discharge pipe 3 on the second sensor surface 12. The faucet 1 of this embodiment is thus configured so that a user can perform independent and different operational inputs by holding his / her hand over the sensor unit 10 provided on the water discharge pipe 3 from either the right or left side when viewed from the front of the water discharge pipe 3.

[0027] (Raw water and purified water discharge operation) As shown in Fig. 5, in the faucet 1 of this embodiment, the discharge pipe 3 forms a discharge flow path 8, to which a raw water flow path 21 extending from a water supply source (not shown) and a purified water flow path 22 branching off from the raw water flow path 21 are connected. The raw water flow path 21 and the purified water flow path 22 are each provided with an electromagnetic valve 25. For ease of explanation, detailed descriptions of the individual pipes constituting the raw water flow path 21 and the purified water flow path 22, and the individual valve mechanisms constituting each electromagnetic valve 25 are omitted in Fig. 5. The faucet 1 of this embodiment is provided with a controller 28 that controls the operation of each electromagnetic valve 25.

[0028] That is, a water purifier 30 is provided in the middle of the purified water flow path 22, which purifies the purified water by treating the raw water flowing in from the raw water flow path 21. In the faucet 1 of this embodiment, the water purifier 30 is installed, for example, below the wall 4 on which the faucet body 2 is erected, inside a kitchen cabinet, etc. (see FIG. 1). Furthermore, the raw water solenoid valve 25a provided in the raw water flow path 21 is controlled by the controller 28 to block or allow the inflow of raw water through the raw water flow path 21 to the discharge flow path 8 formed by the discharge pipe 3. Similarly, the purified water solenoid valve 25b provided in the purified water flow path 22 is also controlled by the controller 28 to block or allow the inflow of purified water through the purified water flow path 22 to the discharge flow path 8 formed by the discharge pipe 3. The faucet 1 of this embodiment is thus configured to selectively discharge from its outlet 5 either the raw water flowing through its raw water flow path 21 or the purified water flowing through its purified water flow path 22 based on the operation of each of these solenoid valves 25a, 25b.

[0029] In the faucet 1 of this embodiment, a manually operated valve 26 is provided in series with the raw water solenoid valve 25a in the raw water flow path 21. Furthermore, this manually operated valve 26 is operated by its lever handle 7 while built into the faucet body 2 as described above (see FIG. 1). Thus, the faucet 1 of this embodiment is configured such that the raw water is discharged with both this manually operated valve 26 and the raw water solenoid valve 25a open.

[0030] Furthermore, in the faucet 1 of this embodiment, the sensor unit 10 provided on the discharge pipe 3 as described above outputs operation input signals Sc1 and Sc2 to the controller 28. Specifically, when the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment detects an object to be detected on the right side of the discharge pipe 3 on the first sensor surface 11, it outputs an operation input signal Sc1 related to the discharge of raw water to the controller 28. Also, when the sensor unit 10 detects an object to be detected on the left side of the discharge pipe 3 on the second sensor surface 12, it outputs an operation input signal Sc2 related to the discharge of purified water to the controller 28. That is, the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment detects a user's operation input related to the discharge of the raw water on the first sensor surface 11. Also, the sensor unit 10 detects a user's operation input related to the discharge of the purified water on the second sensor surface 12. In the faucet 1 of this embodiment, the controller 28 controls the operation of the solenoid valves 25a, 25b for raw water and purified water based on the user's operational input detected by the sensor unit 10.

[0031] In more detail, when the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment detects a user's hand or the like on the right side of the discharge pipe 3 in a non-discharge state, it outputs an operation input signal Sc1 to the controller 28 to indicate that raw water should be discharged. Also, when the sensor unit 10 detects a user's hand or the like on the right side of the discharge pipe 3 again while raw water is being discharged, it outputs an operation input signal Sc1 to the controller 28 to indicate that the discharge of the raw water should be stopped. In this operation input signal Sc1, the discharge request and the stop request are represented by changes in the signal level. In the faucet 1 of this embodiment, the controller 28 controls the operation of the raw water solenoid valve 25a based on this operation input signal Sc1, so that the discharge of raw water through the discharge pipe 3 and the stop of the discharge are performed in a non-contact manner.

[0032] In addition, when the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment detects a user's hand or the like on the left side of the water discharge pipe 3 while in a non-discharge state, it outputs an operation input signal Sc2 to the controller 28 to indicate that purified water should be discharged. In addition, when the sensor unit 10 detects a user's hand or the like on the left side of the water discharge pipe 3 while discharging purified water, it outputs an operation input signal Sc2 to the controller 28 to indicate that the discharge of the purified water should be stopped. In addition, in this operation input signal Sc2, the discharge request and the stop request are also represented by changes in the signal level. In the faucet 1 of this embodiment, the controller 28 controls the operation of the solenoid valve 25b for purified water based on this operation input signal Sc2, so that the discharge of purified water through the water discharge pipe 3 and the stop of the discharge are performed in a non-contact manner.

[0033] (Infrared sensor) More specifically, as shown in Figs. 6 and 7, in the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment, the first and second sensor surfaces 11 and 12 are each formed of a resin material having optical transparency. Furthermore, a light-emitting element 31 and a light-receiving element 32 are arranged side by side on the inside of the first and second sensor surfaces 11 and 12, respectively. Furthermore, in the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment, the light-emitting element 31 outputs infrared light as sensor light, and the light-receiving element 32 receives the reflected light of the infrared light, independently of each other, on the first and second sensor surfaces 11 and 12. Thus, the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment has a configuration as a so-called infrared sensor that detects an object close to the sensor unit 10, such as a user's hand, in two directions in which the first and second sensor surfaces 11 and 12 face.

[0034] (Indication of discharge of raw water and purified water) The sensor unit 10 of this embodiment also includes a raw water discharge display unit 41 that displays and outputs information about the discharge of raw water to the first sensor surface 11, and a purified water discharge display unit 42 that displays and outputs information about the discharge of purified water to the second sensor surface 12. Specifically, in the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment, the raw water discharge display unit 41 is configured using an LED 45 provided on a substrate 43 together with the light emitting element 31 and the light receiving element 32 that constitute the infrared sensor. The purified water discharge display unit 42 is also configured using an LED 45 provided on a substrate 43 together with the light emitting element 31 and the light receiving element 32 that constitute the infrared sensor.

[0035] That is, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, when the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment detects an operation input on the first sensor surface 11, an LED 45a on a substrate 43a provided on the inside of the first sensor surface 11 lights up in accordance with the discharge of raw water due to this operation input. When the sensor unit 10 detects an operation input by the user on the second sensor surface 12, an LED 45b on a substrate 43b provided on the inside of the second sensor surface 12 lights up in accordance with the discharge of purified water due to this operation input. In the faucet 1 of this embodiment, the turning on and off of these LEDs 45a and 45b, that is, the operation of the raw water discharge display unit 41 and the purified water discharge display unit 42, is controlled based on the display signals Sd1 and Sd2 output by the controller 28. The faucet 1 of this embodiment is configured to output a discharge display of raw water in the first side direction α1 where a request for discharge of raw water is input, and to output a discharge display of purified water in the second side direction α2 where a discharge operation of purified water is input.

[0036] (Water purification cartridge and its replacement indication) As shown in FIG. 5, in the faucet 1 of this embodiment, the water purifier 30 provided in the middle of the purified water flow path 22 has a configuration in which filters used for purifying the purified water are detachably integrated as a water purification cartridge 50. Specifically, the water purification cartridge 50 holds, for example, hollow filters and activated carbon as the filters. Furthermore, the water purification cartridge 50 has a recommended usage period set in advance, such as one year from the start of use. The faucet 1 of this embodiment is configured to stably discharge high-quality purified water purified by the water purifier 30 by periodically replacing the water purification cartridge 50.

[0037] More specifically, as shown in Figs. 6 and 7, in the faucet 1 of this embodiment, the sensor unit 10 is provided with an exchange display unit 60 that executes an indication output to encourage the replacement of the water purification cartridge 50 on the first and second sensor surfaces 11 and 12, respectively. In the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment, each of these exchange display units 60 is also configured using an LED 65 provided on the substrate 43 together with the light-emitting element 31 and the light-receiving element 32 that constitute the infrared sensor, and the above-mentioned LED 45. In addition, the turning on and off of the LED 65 of each of these exchange display units 60 is also controlled based on the display signals Sd1 and Sd2 output by the controller 28. In addition, in the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment, when replacement of the water purification cartridge 50 is recommended, each of these exchange display units 60 is configured to display a so-called "replacement mark" on the first and second sensor surfaces 11 and 12.

[0038] Specifically, as shown in Fig. 10, in the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment, when replacement of the water purification cartridge 50 is recommended, a display output is executed on the second sensor surface 12 by the replacement display unit 60 in conjunction with the purified water discharge display unit 42 to encourage replacement. The faucet 1 of this embodiment is thus configured to effectively notify the user of purified water that replacement of the water purification cartridge 50 is recommended by executing a display output regarding the discharge of purified water as well as a display output encouraging replacement of the water purification cartridge 50.

[0039] 11, in the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment, when replacement of the water purification cartridge 50 is recommended, a display output is executed on the first sensor surface 11 by the replacement display unit 60 in conjunction with the raw water discharge display unit 41 to encourage replacement. The faucet 1 of this embodiment is thus configured to notify people other than the user of the purified water that replacement of the water purification cartridge 50 is recommended by executing a display output regarding the discharge of raw water as well as a display output encouraging replacement of the water purification cartridge 50.

[0040] In the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment, the display color of the LED 45a constituting the raw water discharge display section 41 is "white." The display color of the LED 45b constituting the purified water discharge display section 42 is "blue." And the display color of the LED 65 constituting the replacement display section 60 is "orange."

[0041] (Replacement display linked to discharge display) As shown in Fig. 11 and Fig. 12, the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment blinks the LED 45a constituting the raw water discharge display unit 41 at a predetermined cycle as a display output regarding the discharge of raw water by the raw water discharge display unit 41. Also, as shown in Fig. 10 and Fig. 12, the sensor unit 10 blinks the LED 45b constituting the purified water discharge display unit 42 at a predetermined cycle as a display output regarding the discharge of purified water by the purified water discharge display unit 42. Specifically, the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment blinks the LED 45 for the discharge display at a relatively fast cycle, for example, at "1 second intervals", during raw water discharge and purified water discharge, respectively, for a predetermined time from the start of the water discharge, for example, until "10 seconds" has elapsed. Furthermore, after the predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the water discharge, the LED 45 for the discharge display blinks at a relatively slow cycle, for example, at "2 second intervals". In addition, the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment is configured such that, when replacement of the water purification cartridge 50 is not necessary, the replacement display section 60 does not output a display encouraging replacement.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 13, in the faucet 1 of this embodiment, when the remaining period until the expiration date becomes shorter than a preset period, replacement of the water purification cartridge 50 is recommended. For example, if the recommended period of use of the water purification cartridge 50 is "one year", the period "up to the 11th month" after the replacement of the water purification cartridge 50 is a non-notification period T0 in which the replacement of the water purification cartridge 50 is not required (see FIG. 12). Furthermore, the "one month" before the expiration date of "one year" has elapsed, that is, the period "from the 11th month to the 12th month" after the replacement of the water purification cartridge 50, is the first notification period T1 in which the replacement is again notified in advance that the replacement is recommended. In this first notification period T1, the flashing output of the replacement display unit 60 synchronized with the raw water discharge display unit 41 and the purified water discharge display unit 42 is executed as a display output to encourage the replacement of the water purification cartridge 50. That is, the sensor unit 10 is configured to blink the replacement indicator LED 65 constituting the replacement indicator 60 in synchronization with the discharge indicator LED 45 that blinks at a predetermined cycle as described above.

[0043] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 14, in the faucet 1 of this embodiment, when the recommended period of use of the water purification cartridge 50 has elapsed, that is, after the first notification period T1 has elapsed, the period exceeding the expiration date is set as the second notification period T2. That is, for example, if the recommended period of use of the water purification cartridge 50 is "one year", the period "12 months" after the replacement of the water purification cartridge 50 becomes the second notification period T2. Furthermore, during the second notification period T2, the replacement display unit 60 blinks at a faster cycle, that is, at a high speed, than the first notification period T1 as a display output to encourage the replacement of the water purification cartridge 50. Specifically, for example, the sensor unit 10 is configured to blink the replacement display LED 65 at a cycle half that of the blinking of the discharge display LED 45. The faucet 1 of this embodiment is thus configured to more strongly urge users of the faucet 1 to replace the water purification cartridge 50 whose recommended period of use has already expired.

[0044] (Reset operation after replacing the water purification cartridge) As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment has a push switch 70 provided at a position between the first and second sensor surfaces 11, 12. Specifically, the push switch 70 is provided at a position facing downward when the sensor unit 10 is fixed to the rear position βa of the water discharge pipe 3. Furthermore, in the faucet 1 of this embodiment, the push switch 70 is pressed and held after the water purification cartridge 50 is replaced. The time for this press and hold is set to, for example, about several seconds. In this way, the faucet 1 of this embodiment resets the count of the usage period of the replaced water purification cartridge 50. In other words, after this reset, a timer (not shown) built into the sensor unit 10 starts counting the usage period anew.

[0045] (Sound output at the start of discharge) In addition, the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment has a function of outputting a sound through a speaker (not shown) when starting to discharge either raw water or purified water upon detection of an operation input. Furthermore, the sensor unit 10 outputs different sounds when starting to discharge raw water and when starting to discharge purified water. In the sensor unit 10 of this embodiment, different values ​​are set for the output time of the start sound when discharging raw water and when discharging purified water. Specifically, when starting to discharge raw water, a short output time of about 0.1 seconds is set to output a sound of "beep", while when starting to discharge purified water, a relatively long output time of about 0.3 seconds is set to output a sound of "beep". The faucet 1 of this embodiment is configured so that the user can easily identify whether raw water or purified water is being discharged by the sound output at the start of discharge.

[0046] (action) When replacement of the water purification cartridge 50 is recommended, during purified water discharge, the replacement display unit 60 outputs a display to the second sensor surface 12 in conjunction with the purified water discharge display unit 42, encouraging the user to replace the water purification cartridge 50. Also during raw water discharge, the replacement display unit 60 outputs a display to the first sensor surface 11 in conjunction with the raw water discharge display unit 41, encouraging the user to replace the water purification cartridge 50.

[0047] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be described. (1) The faucet 1 is provided with a sensor unit 10 having independent first and second sensor surfaces 11, 12 with different detection directions. The sensor unit 10 detects an operation input related to the discharge of raw water on the first sensor surface 11, and detects an operation input related to the discharge of purified water on the second sensor surface 12. The sensor unit 10 also includes a raw water discharge display unit 41 that outputs a display related to the discharge of raw water to the first sensor surface 11. The sensor unit 10 also includes a purified water discharge display unit 42 that outputs a display related to the discharge of purified water to the second sensor surface 12. The sensor unit 10 also includes an exchange display unit 60 that outputs a display to the first and second sensor surfaces 11, 12 to encourage the replacement of a water purification cartridge 50 used to produce purified water.

[0048] According to the above configuration, a display output is executed not only on the second sensor surface 12 that detects the operation input related to the discharge of purified water, but also on the first sensor surface 11 that detects the operation input related to the discharge of raw water, urging the user of the faucet 1 to replace the water purification cartridge 50. As a result, regardless of the type of water to be discharged, a display output can be executed in the direction of the operation input to effectively urge the user of the faucet 1 to replace the water purification cartridge 50. This enables the user of the faucet 1 to properly replace the water purification cartridge 50.

[0049] (2) The faucet 1 includes a sensor unit 10 provided on the discharge pipe 3. When viewed from the front of the discharge pipe 3, the sensor unit 10 has a first side direction α1 which is the detection direction of a first sensor surface 11, and a second side direction α2 which is the detection direction of a second sensor surface 12.

[0050] According to the above configuration, when viewed from the front of the discharge pipe 3, operation input related to the discharge of raw water can be made without contact on one of the left and right sides of the discharge pipe 3, and operation input related to the discharge of purified water can be made without contact on the other left and right side of the discharge pipe 3. Furthermore, even for users who often use the faucet 1 at a position on the second side direction α2 side where the first sensor surface 11 is difficult to see, when using raw water, a display output is executed on the first sensor surface 11, which is more easily visible, to encourage replacement of the purified water cartridge 50. This makes it possible to effectively notify the user of the faucet 1 that replacement of the purified water cartridge 50 is recommended.

[0051] (3) The sensor unit 10 is provided at a rear position βa of the water discharge pipe 3 in a front view of the water discharge pipe 3. The sensor unit 10 has a widthwise dimension D1 in a front view of the water discharge pipe 3 that is set to be equal to the dimension D0 of the water discharge pipe 3 (D1 ≈ D0).

[0052] According to the above configuration, the sensor unit 10 can be easily hidden in the water discharge pipe 3. This allows for an excellent design. However, on the other hand, depending on the positional relationship with the user, it becomes even more difficult to see either the first or second sensor surface 11, 12. Therefore, by applying the above configuration (1) to such a configuration, a more significant effect can be obtained.

[0053] (4) The replacement display unit 60, in conjunction with the purified water discharge display unit 42, executes a display output on the second sensor surface 12 to encourage replacement of the water purification cartridge 50. Then, the replacement display unit 60, in conjunction with the raw water discharge display unit 41, executes a display output on the first sensor surface 11 to encourage replacement of the water purification cartridge 50.

[0054] That is, a user of purified water is likely to pay attention to the display output related to the discharge of purified water executed on the second sensor surface 12, and a user of raw water is likely to pay attention to the display output related to the discharge of raw water executed on the first sensor surface 11. Therefore, according to the above configuration, it is possible to effectively notify a user of the faucet 1 that replacement of the purified water cartridge 50 is recommended.

[0055] (5) The replacement display unit 60 executes a flashing output synchronized with the purified water discharge display unit 42 and the raw water discharge display unit 41 as a display output to encourage replacement of the water purification cartridge 50. That is, the blinking output makes it easier for the user of the faucet 1 to notice the display output. By synchronizing the blinking output of the replacement display unit 60 with the blinking outputs of the purified water discharge display unit 42 and the raw water discharge display unit 41, the user of the faucet 1 can be more effectively notified that replacement of the purified water cartridge 50 is recommended.

[0056] (6) The replacement display unit 60 has a first alarm period T1 in which it executes a flashing output synchronized with the purified water discharge display unit 42 and the raw water discharge display unit 41, and a second alarm period T2 in which it executes a flashing output faster than the first alarm period T1 after the first alarm period T1 has elapsed.

[0057] That is, by having the first and second notification periods T1 and T2, different meanings can be given to the display output that prompts the replacement of the water purification cartridge 50 executed in the first and second notification periods T1 and T2. For example, in the first notification period T1, it is possible to notify in advance that the replacement of the water purification cartridge 50 is recommended, and in the second notification period T2 after the first notification period, it is possible to notify that the water purification cartridge 50 should be replaced early. In particular, by performing the blinking output in the second notification period T2 at a higher speed than in the first notification period T1, it is possible to create a sense of urgency. This makes it possible to more effectively notify the user of the faucet 1 that the replacement of the water purification cartridge 50 is recommended.

[0058] The above embodiment can be modified as follows: The above embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that no technical contradiction occurs.

[0059] In the above embodiment, the replacement display unit 60, in conjunction with the purified water discharge display unit 42, executes a display output on the second sensor surface 12 to encourage replacement of the water purification cartridge 50. The replacement display unit 60, in conjunction with the raw water discharge display unit 41, executes a display output on the first sensor surface 11 to encourage replacement of the water purification cartridge 50. However, this is not limited to the above, and may be configured to execute a display output of replacement on the second sensor surface 12 in conjunction with the purified water discharge display unit 42, and also execute a display output of replacement linked to the purified water discharge display unit 42 on the first sensor surface 11. The replacement display unit 60, in conjunction with the raw water discharge display unit 41, may be configured to execute a display output of replacement on the first sensor surface 11 in conjunction with the raw water discharge display unit 41, and also execute a display output of replacement linked to the raw water discharge display unit 41 on the second sensor surface 12.

[0060] In the above embodiment, in a front view of the discharge pipe 3, the right side of the discharge pipe 3 is the first lateral direction α1, and the left side of the discharge pipe 3 is the second lateral direction α2. However, this is not limited to this, and the left side of the discharge pipe 3 may be the first lateral direction α1, and the right side of the discharge pipe 3 may be the second lateral direction α2. In other words, the present invention may be applied to a configuration in which an operation input related to the discharge of raw water is performed on the left side of the discharge pipe 3, and an operation input related to the discharge of purified water is performed on the right side of the discharge pipe 3.

[0061] · In the above-described embodiment, in the gooseneck-shaped water discharge pipe 3 having a substantially U-shaped outer shape, the sensor unit 10 is fixed to the tip portion 3a constituting the water discharge port 5 and the back position βa on the water discharge side formed at the boundary between the tip portion 3a and the curved portion 3c. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the back position of the water discharge pipe 3 to which the sensor unit 10 is fixed may be the base end portion 3b fixed to the faucet body 2 and the back position βb on the water supply side formed at the boundary between the base end portion 3b and the curved portion 3c (see FIG. 1). Even if such a configuration is adopted, as in the above-described embodiment, since the sensor unit 10 is easily hidden by the water discharge pipe 3, high designability can be ensured. Further, the shape of the water discharge pipe 3 is not limited to the substantially U-shaped gooseneck shape and may be arbitrarily changed. And the fixing position of the sensor unit 10 is not limited to the back position of the water discharge pipe 3 and may be arbitrarily changed.

[0062] · The controller 28 that controls the operation of the electromagnetic valves 25a and 25b for raw water and purified water may be built in integrally with the sensor unit 10 or may be provided separately. · Also, the detection directions of the first and second sensor surfaces 11 and 12 are not necessarily limited to the first and second side directions α1 and α2 and may be arbitrarily changed. For example, the detection directions of the first sensor surface 11 and the second sensor surface 12 do not necessarily have to be in opposite directions. And at least one of the first and second sensor surfaces 11 and 12 may be arranged at a location other than the water discharge pipe 3.

[0063] · In the above-described embodiment, in the front view of the water discharge pipe 3, the dimension D1 of the sensor unit 10 in the width direction is set to be equivalent to the dimension D0 of the water discharge pipe 3 (D1≈D0). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the dimension D1 of the sensor unit 10 may be the same as the dimension D0 of the water discharge pipe 3 (D1 = D0) or smaller than the dimension D0 of the water discharge pipe 3 (D1 < D0). Thereby, the sensor unit 10 becomes even more easily hidden by the water discharge pipe 3. And by applying such a configuration, a more remarkable effect can be obtained.

[0064] The display colors of the raw water discharge display unit 41, the purified water discharge display unit 42, and the replacement display unit 60 may be changed as desired. Furthermore, the blinking cycle may also be changed as desired. For example, the blinking cycle may not be changed between a predetermined time after the start of water discharge and after the predetermined time has elapsed. And, for example, the blinking cycle of the raw water discharge display unit 41 and the blinking cycle of the purified water discharge display unit 42 may be configured to be different.

[0065] Furthermore, the lighting timing of the raw water discharge display unit 41 and the purified water discharge display unit 42 and the lighting timing of the replacement display unit 60 do not necessarily have to be completely synchronized. For example, the lighting timing of the replacement display unit 60 may be slightly delayed and synchronized with the lighting timing of the raw water discharge display unit 41 and the purified water discharge display unit 42. Furthermore, the lighting timing of the replacement display unit 60 may be slightly advanced and synchronized with the lighting timing of the raw water discharge display unit 41 and the purified water discharge display unit 42. The blinking output of the raw water discharge display unit 41 and the purified water discharge display unit 42 and the blinking output of the purified water discharge display unit 42 do not necessarily have to be synchronized.

[0066] Furthermore, the display output does not necessarily have to be a flashing output. For example, it may be configured to be continuously displayed while water is being discharged, and the form of the display output may also be text output, etc. Also, for example, at least one of the display outputs of the raw water discharge display unit 41 and the purified water discharge display unit 42 may be a flashing output, and the display output of the replacement display unit 60 may be a continuous display. And, at least one of the display outputs of the raw water discharge display unit 41 and the purified water discharge display unit 42 may be a continuous display, and the display output of the replacement display unit 60 may be a flashing output.

[0067] In the above embodiment, a first notification period T1 and a second notification period T2 that follows the first notification period T1 are set. In the second notification period T2, the flashing output of the replacement display unit 60 is executed at a higher speed than in the first notification period T1. However, this is not limited to this, and a configuration may be adopted in which the display output of the replacement display unit 60 in the first notification period T1 and the display output of the replacement display unit 60 in the second notification period T2 are changed by a method other than changing the flashing period.

[0068] The notification period may be configured to have three or more stages.Furthermore, the notification period may be configured to have a single notification period.The display output of the replacement display unit 60 may be configured to change continuously and steplessly with the passage of time.

[0069] In the above embodiment, the recommended period of use of the water purification cartridge 50 is "one year", but the recommended period of use is arbitrary. Also, the present invention may be applied to a configuration in which a display output regarding replacement of the water purification cartridge 50 is executed based on, for example, the purified water purification amount, instead of the period of use.

[0070] In the above embodiment, after replacing the water purification cartridge 50, the usage period count is reset by pressing and holding the push switch 70 provided on the sensor unit 10. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be applied to a configuration in which the usage period count is reset by an operation method other than pressing and holding the push switch 70.

[0071] In the above embodiment, different sound outputs are executed when starting to discharge raw water and when starting to discharge purified water. This difference in sound output is realized by the difference in output time. However, this is not limited to this, and for example, the difference in sound output may be realized by a method other than changing the output time. For example, the difference in sound output may be realized by changing the pitch of the sound. Furthermore, the sound output may be configured to have different melodies when starting to discharge raw water and when starting to discharge purified water. And, a configuration may be adopted in which sound output is not performed when water is discharged.

[0072] In the above embodiment, the sensor unit 10 is configured as an infrared sensor in which the light emitting element 31 and the light receiving element 32 are arranged side by side inside the first and second sensor surfaces 11, 12. However, this is not limited thereto, and as long as the sensor unit has the first and second sensor surfaces 11, 12 that are independent and have different detection directions, the sensor type does not necessarily have to be an infrared sensor. [Explanation of symbols]

[0073] 1...water faucet, 10...sensor unit, 11...first sensor surface, 12...second sensor surface, 41...raw water discharge indicator, 42...purified water discharge indicator, 50...purified water cartridge, 60...replacement indicator.

Claims

1. a sensor unit having first and second sensor surfaces each having a different detection direction; The sensor unit includes: Detecting an operation input related to the discharge of raw water on the first sensor surface; Detecting an operation input related to the discharge of purified water on the second sensor surface, a raw water discharge display unit that executes a display output regarding the discharge of the raw water to the first sensor surface; A purified water discharge display unit that executes a display output regarding the discharge of the purified water to the second sensor surface; A faucet comprising: a replacement display unit that outputs a display to the first and second sensor surfaces to encourage replacement of a water purification cartridge used to purify the water.

2. The sensor unit is provided in a discharge pipe, The sensor unit, when viewed from the front of the discharge pipe, A first side direction is defined as the detection direction of the first sensor surface, The second side direction is set as the detection direction of the second sensor surface. The faucet of claim 1.

3. The sensor unit includes: When viewed from the front of the discharge pipe, the discharge pipe is provided at a rear position of the discharge pipe, The width dimension in the front view is equal to or smaller than that of the discharge pipe. The faucet according to claim 2.

4. The replacement display unit is The display output for the second sensor surface is executed in conjunction with the purified water discharge display unit, The display output for the first sensor surface is executed in conjunction with the raw water discharge display unit. A faucet according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The replacement display unit has the following display output: A blinking output is executed in synchronization with the purified water discharge display unit and the raw water discharge display unit. The faucet according to claim 4.

6. The replacement display unit is a first notification period during which the synchronized blinking output is executed; The faucet according to claim 5 , further comprising: a second warning period, which occurs after the first warning period has elapsed, and in which the flashing output is executed at a higher speed than during the first warning period.

Images