Water discharge control system

Abstract

To provide a washing system capable of preventing overflow from a wash basin while omitting an overflow hole in the wash basin.SOLUTION: A water discharge control system 100 comprises: a discharge device 10 including a discharge pipe 13 extending from a base end part 11 to be supplied with water 5 to a distal end part 12 and provided with a discharge port 14 in the distal end part 12; a discharge-side state detection unit 20 provided in the discharge device 10 and capable of either receiving or transmitting a signal for detecting a state of the water 5 in a wash basin 62 that receives the water 5 discharged from the discharge port 14; and a control unit 30 that determines whether the state of the water 5 in the wash basin 62 detected by the discharge-side state detection unit 20 is in a full water state or not and, if having determined that the state of the water 5 is a full water state, performs control so that a discharge of the water 5 from the discharge port 14 is halted.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a water discharge control system. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a washbasin that includes a bowl portion capable of receiving and storing water guided from a water pipe and discharged from a discharge port, and an overflow drainage channel for draining the water in the bowl portion before it overflows from the bowl portion. An overflow hole is formed in the bowl portion at a predetermined height within the bowl portion, and the water in the bowl portion is guided to the overflow drainage channel through the overflow hole. The overflow drainage channel is formed by a space between an inner bowl wall portion on the inner side of the bowl portion and a rear bowl wall portion on the rear side of the bowl portion. The water guided to the overflow drainage channel passes through this space and is discharged from the drain pipe. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-089263 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Washbasins with an overflow hole and overflow drainage channel formed in the bowl section have various problems, including hygiene problems, aesthetic problems, and problems with the manufacturing process. Hygiene problems include, for example, pests entering through the overflow hole, and the space from the overflow hole to the overflow drainage channel being difficult to clean. Aesthetic problems include, for example, the overflow drainage channel bulging at the rear of the bowl section. Manufacturing process problems are caused by the fact that bowl sections with spaces such as overflow drainage channels are generally manufactured using the sludge removal method, which requires a large number of steps and results in a heavy washbasin.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a water discharge control system that can suppress overflow from a washbasin while omitting an overflow hole in the washbasin. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The first aspect of the present invention is A water discharge device having a water discharge pipe extending from a base end to a tip end, the tip end being provided with a water discharge port; A water discharge side state detection unit is disposed in the water discharge device and is capable of at least one of receiving and transmitting a signal for detecting the state of water in a washbasin that receives water discharged from the water outlet; a control unit that determines whether the state of water in the washbasin detected by the water discharge side state detection unit is full or not, and when it determines that the state of water is full, controls to stop the discharge of water from the water outlet; The water discharge control system is provided with:

[0007] In the second aspect of the present invention, The water discharge side state detection unit is an image capturing unit capable of capturing an image of the state of the water in the washbasin, It is preferable that the control unit judges whether the water state is full or not based on the image captured by the imaging unit.

[0008] In the third aspect of the present invention, It is preferable that the imaging surface of the imaging unit is approximately parallel to the surface of the water in the washbasin.

[0009] In the fourth aspect of the present invention, The discharge-side state detection unit is capable of transmitting a signal toward the inner surface of the washbasin, and is capable of receiving a reflected signal that is a result of the signal transmitted toward the inner surface of the washbasin being reflected by the inner surface of the washbasin; It is preferable that the control unit judges whether the water state is a full water state or not based on the reception state of the reflected signal at the water discharge side state detection unit.

[0010] In the fifth aspect of the present invention, The washing machine further includes a facing portion side state detection portion that is disposed in a facing portion facing the water discharge device and is capable of at least one of receiving and transmitting a signal for detecting the state of the water in the washing machine. The discharge side state detection unit is capable of at least one of receiving and transmitting a signal between the discharge side state detection unit and the opposed side state detection unit, It is preferable that the control unit determines whether the water state is full based on the reception state by the discharge side state detection unit of the signal transmitted from the opposing side state detection unit, or the reception state by the opposing side state detection unit of the signal transmitted from the discharge side state detection unit.

[0011] In the sixth aspect of the present invention, Further comprising a washbasin side state detection unit arranged on the inner surface of the washbasin and capable of transmitting a signal for detecting the state of the water in the washbasin; The water discharge side state detection unit is capable of receiving a signal from the washbasin side state detection unit, It is preferable that the control unit judges whether the water state is full or not based on the reception state of the signal transmitted from the washbasin side state detection unit by the water discharge side state detection unit.

[0012] In the seventh aspect of the present invention, A facing section side state detection section is disposed in a facing section facing the water discharge device and is capable of at least one of receiving and transmitting a signal for detecting the state of the water in the washbasin; A washbasin side state detection unit that is arranged on the inner surface of the washbasin and is capable of at least one of receiving and transmitting a signal for detecting the state of water in the washbasin; A control unit that determines whether the water state is full or not based on the reception state by the washbasin side state detection unit of the signal transmitted from the opposite side state detection unit, or the reception state by the opposite side state detection unit of the signal transmitted from the washbasin side state detection unit; The water discharge control system includes: Effect of the Invention

[0013] According to the present invention as described above, it is possible to provide a water discharge control system that can suppress overflow from a washbasin while omitting an overflow hole in the washbasin.

[0014] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, which refers to the drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is a side view showing a configuration of a water discharge unit having a water discharge control system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process flow in the water discharge control system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example (1) of a water discharge control system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example (2) of the water discharge control system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example (1) of a water discharge control system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example (2) of a water discharge control system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example (3) of a water discharge control system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0016] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. An embodiment of the present invention relates to a water discharge control system for preventing water from overflowing from a washbasin that receives water discharged from a water outlet. The water discharge control system includes at least a water discharge device that discharges water, a state detection unit that detects the state of the water in the washbasin (a water discharge side state detection unit, an opposing side state detection unit, and a washbasin side state detection unit, which will be described later), and a control unit that stops water discharge when it is determined that the washbasin is full of water.

[0017] In the first embodiment, a water discharge control system in which at least the water discharge side state detection unit is provided in the water discharge device will be described. Meanwhile, in the second embodiment, a water discharge control system in which at least one of the opposing part side state detection unit and the washbasin side state detection unit is not provided in the water discharge device will be described.

[0018] <First embodiment> The water discharge control system 100 according to the first embodiment will be described below. (1) Overview of the water discharge unit and water discharge control system Fig. 1 is a side view showing the configuration of a water discharge unit having a water discharge control system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a flow chart showing an example of a process flow in the water discharge control system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] The water discharge unit 1 includes a washbasin 62 that receives water 5 discharged from a water outlet 14 of the water discharge device 10 described later, and a water discharge control system 100. The washbasin 62 is disposed on a pedestal 60. In the example of FIG. 1, the washbasin 62 is disposed on the pedestal 60. A drain port 62b is provided at approximately the bottom of the inner surface 62a of the washbasin 62, and is connected to a drain pipe (not shown) to drain the water in the washbasin 62. Unlike the example of FIG. 1, the washbasin 62 may be disposed in such a manner that a part or the whole of it is embedded in the pedestal 60. In addition, in the example of FIG. 1, the washbasin 62 is hemispherical in side view, but the shape of the washbasin 62 is not limited, and may be rectangular in side view, for example. The pedestal 60 is provided with a back support part 61 that is erected along the wall surface at the rear of the washbasin 62. A mirror 63 is disposed on the back support part 61 so as to face a user positioned in front of the washbasin 62.

[0020] The water discharge control system 100 includes a water discharge device 10, a water discharge side state detection unit 20, and a control unit 30. The water discharge device 10 includes a water discharge pipe 13 extending from a base end 11 on the base 60 side to a tip end 12 away from the base 60, and a handle 15 for adjusting the start, stop, and amount of discharge of water 5 from the water discharge pipe 13. A water outlet 14 is provided at the tip end 12 of the water discharge pipe 13. When the handle 15 is operated, water 5 supplied to the base end 11 from a water supply unit (not shown) is discharged from the water outlet 14. Note that adjustment of the start, stop, and amount of discharge of water 5 is not limited to the operation of the handle 15, and may be performed, for example, by sensing the user's hands and conversation in a non-contact state. In this case, instead of the handle 15, a water discharge operation detection unit capable of detecting instructions regarding water discharge by the user's hands, conversation, etc. can be provided in the water discharge device 10.

[0021] By covering the drain outlet 62b with a drain outlet cover (not shown), the water 5 discharged from the water outlet 14 can be collected in the washbasin 62. Also, water 5 discharged from the water outlet 14 may collect in the washbasin 62 due to clogging of the drain outlet 62b, rather than being covered with a drain outlet cover. In Fig. 1, the state in which water 5 has collected in the washbasin 62 is shown, with the water surface 5a, which is the uppermost surface of the collected water 5, being shown.

[0022] The discharge-side condition detection unit 20 is disposed in the water discharge device 10. The discharge-side condition detection unit 20 is capable of at least either receiving or transmitting a signal for detecting the condition of the water 5 in the washbasin 62. In other words, the discharge-side condition detection unit 20 is capable of receiving a signal for detecting the condition of the water 5 in the washbasin 62, capable of transmitting the signal, or capable of both transmitting and receiving the signal.

[0023] The control unit 30 is disposed in the water discharge device 10. The control unit 30 judges whether or not the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62 detected by the water discharge side state detection unit 20 is full. Then, when the control unit 30 judges that the state of the water 5 is full, it controls the discharge of the water 5 from the water outlet 14 to stop.

[0024] The flow for stopping water discharge when the tank is full is, for example, performed according to the flow shown in FIG. Step S1: By operating the handle 15 or the like, the water 5 starts to be discharged from the water outlet 14. When the drain outlet 62b is covered with a drain outlet cover, water accumulates in the washbasin 62.

[0025] Step S2: When water starts to be discharged from the water outlet 14, the control unit 30 sends an instruction to the water outlet side state detection unit 20 to start detecting the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62. The method by which the control unit 30 determines whether water has started to be discharged is not limited. For example, when an operation to start water discharge is performed on the handle 15, a signal based on this operation to start water discharge may be sent to the control unit 30, so that the control unit 30 may determine whether water has started to be discharged from the water outlet 14. Also, for example, when the water discharge operation detection unit described above instead of the handle 15 detects an operation by the user to start water discharge, a signal based on this operation to start water discharge may be sent to the control unit 30, so that the control unit 30 may determine whether water has started to be discharged from the water outlet 14.

[0026] Furthermore, the control unit 30 may instruct the discharge side status detection unit 20 to start detecting the status of the water 5 when water discharge begins from the water outlet 14, or when a separate drain detection unit determines that the drain outlet 62b is covered by a drain cover.

[0027] The discharge-side condition detection unit 20 starts detecting the condition of the water 5 in the washbasin 62, and transmits a signal including the detection result to the control unit 30. For example, the discharge-side condition detection unit 20 detects the condition of the water 5 by transmitting a signal into the washbasin 62 and receiving a reflected signal from the water 5.

[0028] Step S3: Control unit 30 judges whether or not the water 5 in basin 62 is full based on a signal including a detection result indicating the state of water 5 sent from discharge-side state detection unit 20. If control unit 30 judges that the water is full, it proceeds to step S4, and if it judges that the water is not full, it returns to step S2.

[0029] Step S4: When the control unit 30 determines that the state of the water 5 transmitted from the water discharge side state detection unit 20 is a full water state, it controls to stop water discharge from the water discharge port 14. Water discharge is stopped, for example, by the control unit 30 transmitting an instruction to stop water discharge to a separately provided automatic operation unit that automatically operates the handle 15, and the automatic operation unit operates the handle 15 to the water discharge stop side in response to this. Alternatively, the control unit 30 transmits an instruction to stop water discharge to a separately provided automatic operation unit that automatically operates a main water supply faucet that starts and stops water supply, and the automatic operation unit operates the water supply faucet to the water discharge stop side in response to this. Alternatively, the control unit 30 may prompt the user to stop water discharge by notifying the user to stop water discharge. Note that the method of stopping water discharge is not limited to these as long as it is possible to stop water discharge.

[0030] In addition, when the control unit 30 controls the water discharge from the water discharge port 14 to stop, it may instruct the water discharge side state detection unit 20 to stop detecting the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62.

[0031] In step S2 above, the discharge-side condition detection unit 20 starts detecting the condition of the water 5 in the washbasin 62 based on an instruction from the control unit 30. However, the discharge-side condition detection unit 20 may always be detecting the condition of the water 5 in the washbasin 62. In this case, the control unit 30 does not need to instruct the discharge-side condition detection unit 20 to stop detecting the condition of the water 5 in the washbasin 62 in step S4 above.

[0032] According to the above configuration, the discharge side state detection unit 20 detects the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62, and when the control unit 30 determines that the washbasin 62 is full, the discharge of water from the water outlet 14 is stopped. Therefore, the washbasin 62 can be provided with no overflow hole and no overflow drainage channel, and water overflowing from the washbasin 62 can be prevented. According to the above water discharge control system 100, the overflow hole and the overflow drainage channel can be omitted, so that pests do not enter through the overflow hole, there is no need to clean the overflow drainage channel, aesthetic problems caused by the provision of an overflow drainage channel can be eliminated, and it is not necessary to adopt a sludge removal method that involves many steps and tends to make the washbasin heavy, and various other problems can be solved. In addition, in the case of a vessel type in which the washbasin 62 is provided in an exposed state on the top of the base 60, the shape of the washbasin 62 greatly affects the aesthetic appearance, but the above-mentioned water discharge control system 100 can be adopted to further eliminate aesthetic problems.

[0033] In addition, since the discharge side state detection unit 20 is disposed in the water discharge device 10, there is no need to provide the discharge side state detection unit 20 in a separate part from the water discharge device 10, and the water discharge control system 100 can be configured compactly and simply. Furthermore, since the control unit 30 is also disposed in the water discharge device 10, the water discharge control system 100 can be configured even more compactly and simply.

[0034] Unlike the above, the control unit 30 may be provided separately from the water discharge device 10. In this case, the control unit 30 receives a signal including the detection result from the water discharge side state detection unit 20 by remote communication, and when it determines that the water is full based on the received signal including the detection result, it controls the water discharge 5 from the water outlet 14 by remote communication to stop. However, if the control unit 30 is provided in the water discharge device 10, the water discharge side state detection unit 20 and the control unit 30 can be configured integrally with the water discharge device 10, making it possible to configure the water discharge control system 100 more compactly and more simply.

[0035] (2) An example of the water discharge control system according to the first embodiment An example of the water discharge control system 100 according to the first embodiment will be described below using an example of a water discharge control system (1) and an example of a water discharge control system (2). Note that the water discharge control system 100 according to the first embodiment is not limited to the following examples, as long as at least the water discharge side state detection unit 20 is provided in the water discharge device 10 and water discharge can be stopped when the water 5 in the washbasin 62 is full. Moreover, the description of the same points as those of the water discharge control system 100 described above with reference to Figs. 1 and 2 will be omitted or simplified.

[0036] (2-1) An example of a water discharge control system (1) An example (1) of the water discharge control system 100 according to the first embodiment will be described below. Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example (1) of the water discharge control system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] The water discharge control system 100 includes a water discharge device 10, a water discharge side state detection unit 20, and a control unit 30. In the example of FIG. 3, a photographing unit 21 capable of photographing the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62 is provided as the water discharge side state detection unit 20. The photographing unit 21 is disposed in the water discharge device 10, and in the example of FIG. 3, it is disposed in the water discharge pipe 13. The position of the photographing unit 21 in the water discharge device 10 is not limited, but for example, it is disposed in the water discharge pipe 13 so that the photographing surface 21a faces the washbasin 62 side. In addition, the photographing unit 21 may be attached to the water discharge pipe 13 in a state spaced apart above the water discharge pipe 13, for example, as long as it is possible to photograph the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62. In addition, it is preferable that the photographing surface 21a is approximately parallel to the water surface 5a of the water 5 in the washbasin 62. When the photographing surface 21a and the water surface 5a are roughly parallel to each other in this manner, it is easier to grasp the state of the water 5, including the water level in the washbasin 62 and the waves of the water in the washbasin 62, more accurately than when photographing from a direction tilted relative to the water surface 5a.

[0038] The photographing unit 21 may photograph the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62 in a state in which all of the water 5 in the washbasin 62 can be photographed. Alternatively, if it is possible to determine whether the water 5 is full or not, the photographing unit 21 may photograph only a part of the water 5 in the washbasin 62. Furthermore, the photographing unit 21 may photograph not only the water in the washbasin 62, but also the surroundings of the washbasin 62.

[0039] When the photographing unit 21 receives an instruction to start photographing from the control unit 30 based on the start of water discharge from the water outlet 14, the photographing unit 21 may start photographing the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62. Alternatively, the photographing unit 21 may be constantly photographing.

[0040] By capturing an image by the image capturing unit 21, it is possible to obtain, as detection results, the position of the water surface 5a in the washbasin 62, the state of the waves on the water surface 5a, and the like. The image capturing unit 21 transmits a signal including the detection result to the control unit 30. The image as the detection result may be a still image or a video.

[0041] The control unit 30 is disposed in the water discharge device 10, and in the example of FIG. 3, is disposed in the water discharge pipe 13. The control unit 30 receives a signal including the detection result photographed by the photographing unit 21 from the photographing unit 21. The control unit 30 judges whether the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62 is full or not based on the detection result, i.e., the image. When the control unit 30 judges that the state is full, it controls to stop the discharge of water from the water outlet 14. For example, the control unit 30 judges the full water state as follows. Images in the case of the full water state, such as various images of the water 5 in the washbasin 62 according to different wave states, various images of the water 5 in the washbasin 62 according to different water discharge states such as different water discharge amounts and different water discharge speeds from the water outlet 14, and various images of the water 5 in the washbasin 62 according to different lighting strengths, are acquired in advance and stored in a separate storage unit. Note that images in the case of a state that is not full may be stored in the storage unit. The control unit 30 compares the image captured by the image capture unit 21 with various images in the storage unit, and for example, compares the detection result with various images in the full water state, and if they roughly match, determines that the water is full. On the other hand, if they roughly do not match, the control unit 30 determines that the water is not full.

[0042] When the control unit 30 determines that the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62 is full, it controls to stop the discharge of the water 5 from the water outlet 14. For example, but not limited to, the control unit 30 controls to stop the discharge of water by sending an instruction to a separately provided automatic operation unit that automatically operates the handle 15, a separately provided automatic operation unit that automatically operates the water supply faucet, or the like.

[0043] Furthermore, the control unit 30 may control the water discharge to stop, and may also instruct the photographing unit 21 to stop photographing the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62. Alternatively, the photographing unit 21 may always be photographing.

[0044] According to the above configuration, the control unit 30 can determine whether the basin is full based on the image captured by the image capture unit 21. If the basin is full, the discharge of water 5 from the water outlet 14 is stopped. This makes it possible to omit an overflow hole and an overflow drainage path in the washbasin 62, and prevents water from overflowing from the washbasin 62. Furthermore, according to the above configuration, various problems such as the above-mentioned hygiene problems, aesthetic problems, and problems in the manufacturing process can be prevented.

[0045] In addition, in the above configuration, since the photographing unit 21 arranged in the water discharge device 10 photographs the state of the water 5, there is no need to provide the photographing unit 21 in a separate location from the water discharge device 10, and the water discharge control system 100 can be configured compactly and simply. Furthermore, since the control unit 30 is also arranged in the water discharge device 10, the water discharge control system 100 can be configured even more compactly and simply.

[0046] Unlike the above, the control unit 30 may be provided separately from the water discharge device 10. The control unit 30 may perform remote communication with the photographing unit 21 and control the stopping of water discharge through remote communication. However, if the control unit 30 is provided in the water discharge device 10, the photographing unit 21 and the control unit 30 can be configured integrally with the water discharge device 10, making it possible to configure the water discharge control system 100 more compactly and more simply.

[0047] (2-2) An example of a water discharge control system (2) An example (2) of the water discharge control system 100 according to the first embodiment will be described below. Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example (2) of the water discharge control system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] The water discharge control system 100 includes a water discharge device 10, a water discharge side state detection unit 20, and a control unit 30. In the example of FIG. 4, the water discharge side state detection unit 20 is configured to be capable of transmitting a signal toward the inner surface 62a of the washbasin 62 and to be capable of receiving a reflected signal from the inner surface 62a. The reflected signal is a signal transmitted from the water discharge side state detection unit 20 toward the inner surface 62a of the washbasin 62 and reflected by a specific part of the inner surface 62a in the washbasin 62. The specific part is a part of the inner surface 62a to which the signal transmitted from the water discharge side state detection unit 20 reaches without being affected by the water 5 in the washbasin 62 when the water in the washbasin 62 is not full. The water discharge side state detection unit 20 is disposed at a position where it is possible to transmit and receive a signal to the inner surface 62a. As long as such transmission and reception of signals is possible, the position is not limited. In the example of FIG. 4, the water discharge side state detection unit 20 is disposed at the tip 12 of the water discharge pipe 13. Moreover, examples of signals that can be transmitted and received include infrared rays and ultrasonic waves.

[0049] Note that the material of the washbasin 62 is not limited as long as the signal transmitted from the discharge-side status detection unit 20 can be reflected by the inner surface 62a. For example, the washbasin 62 may be made of ceramic, stainless steel, glass, or the like. Also, only the specific portion of the inner surface 62a may be processed so as to be able to reflect the signal. For example, a reflective material capable of reflecting a signal may be attached only to the specific portion.

[0050] When the discharge-side status detection unit 20 receives an instruction to start transmitting and receiving signals from the control unit 30 based on the start of water discharge from the water outlet 14, the discharge-side status detection unit 20 may start transmitting and receiving signals toward the inner surface 62a inside the washbasin 62. Alternatively, the discharge-side status detection unit 20 may always be transmitting and receiving signals.

[0051] The discharge side state detection unit 20 transmits a signal toward the inner surface 62a of the washbasin 62. The position of the inner surface 62a from which the signal is transmitted is a position where it is possible to determine whether the water 5 is full or not. For example, A is the full water position when the water 5 is full in the washbasin 62, and P B is the under-full position when the tank is under-full. A This is a position above which the water 5 may overflow from the washbasin 62 if the water 5 is discharged into the washbasin 62. B is the full water position P A This is a position lower than the full water position P , and is a position where there is little possibility of overflowing even if the water 5 continues to be discharged. B If water 5 continues to be discharged, the full water position P A This is also the position where the water level reaches the water outlet position P A It is below the full water level P A In the example of FIG. 4, the discharge-side state detection unit 20 transmits a signal toward the inner surface 62a at a position near the full-water position P A and the less than full water position P B The signal is transmitted to a location between the

[0052] Here, when the discharge side state detection unit 20 transmits a signal toward the inner surface 62a, if the water 5 is not full, the signal reaches a specific portion of the inner surface 62a without being blocked by the water 5, and the reflected signal from the inner surface 62a reaches the discharge side state detection unit 20. For example, when the water 5 is at a position P B In the following cases, the transmission of signals and the reception of reflected signals by the water discharge side state detection unit 20 are not substantially affected by the water 5.

[0053] On the other hand, for example, water 5 is at full water position P A If the signal reaches the full water position P, the transmission of the signal and the reception of the reflected signal by the discharge side state detection unit 20 are affected by the water 5. In this case, the signal transmitted from the discharge side state detection unit 20 reaches a specific part of the inner surface 62a in a state attenuated by the influence of the water 5, or reaches the inner surface 62a but does not reach the full water position P. A and the less than full water position P B The reflected signal is affected by the water 5, for example, the signal reaches a position different from the specific portion between the inner surface 62a and ...

[0054] The control unit 30 is disposed in the water discharge device 10, and in the example of FIG. 4, is disposed in the water discharge pipe 13. The control unit 30 receives a reflected signal from the water discharge side state detection unit 20. The control unit 30 judges whether the state of the water 5 is full or not based on the reception state of the reflected signal. If the control unit 30 judges that the state is full, it controls to stop the discharge of water from the water discharge port 14. For example, the control unit 30 judges the full water state as follows.

[0055] Water 5 is at full water position P A If the water level is full, the reflected signal will be attenuated by the water 5 or will not reach the discharge side state detection unit 20. Therefore, the control unit 30 determines that the water level is full when the reflected signal from the discharge side state detection unit 20 is attenuated by the water 5 or when the control unit 30 cannot receive a reflected signal from the discharge side state detection unit 20. BEven if the tank is closer to being full, the reflected signal is likely to be affected by the water 5. Therefore, in this case as well, the control unit 30 may determine that the tank is full if the reflected signal is attenuated by the influence of the water 5, or if the reflected signal cannot be received.

[0056] On the other hand, water 5 is less than full at position P B or less and not in a full-water state, the reflected signal is not affected by the water 5. In this case, the reflected signal reaches the discharge-side condition detection unit 20 without being affected by the water 5 and without being attenuated or the like. Therefore, when the control unit 30 receives a reflected signal that is not attenuated from the discharge-side condition detection unit 20, it determines that the water is not full.

[0057] When the control unit 30 determines that the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62 is full, it controls to stop the discharge of the water 5 from the water outlet 14. For example, but not limited to, the control unit 30 controls to stop the discharge of water by sending an instruction to a separately provided automatic operation unit that automatically operates the handle 15, a separately provided automatic operation unit that automatically operates the water supply faucet, or the like.

[0058] Furthermore, the control unit 30 may perform the water discharge stop control and instruct the water discharge side state detection unit 20 to stop transmitting and receiving signals. Alternatively, the water discharge side state detection unit 20 may always transmit and receive signals.

[0059] According to the above configuration, the discharge side state detection unit 20 transmits and receives a signal, and the control unit 30 receives a reflected signal from the discharge side state detection unit 20, and the control unit 30 can determine whether the basin is full based on the state of the reflected signal. If the basin is full, the discharge of water 5 from the outlet 14 is stopped. This makes it possible to omit an overflow hole and an overflow drainage path in the washbasin 62, and prevents water from overflowing from the washbasin 62. Furthermore, according to the above configuration, various problems such as the above-mentioned hygiene problems, aesthetic problems, and problems in the manufacturing process can be prevented.

[0060] Furthermore, in the above configuration, since the water discharge side state detection unit 20 arranged in the water discharge device 10 transmits and receives signals to acquire the state of the water 5, there is no need to provide the water discharge side state detection unit 20 in a separate part from the water discharge device 10, and the water discharge control system 100 can be configured compactly and simply. Furthermore, since the control unit 30 is also arranged in the water discharge device 10, the water discharge control system 100 can be configured even more compactly and simply.

[0061] Unlike the above, the control unit 30 may be provided separately from the water discharge device 10. The control unit 30 may perform remote communication with the water discharge side state detection unit 20 and control the stop of water discharge via remote communication. However, if the control unit 30 is provided in the water discharge device 10, the water discharge side state detection unit 20 and the control unit 30 can be configured integrally with the water discharge device 10, making it possible to configure the water discharge control system 100 more compactly and more simply.

[0062] <Second embodiment> The water discharge control system 100 according to the second embodiment will be described below. The description of the same configuration as the first embodiment will be omitted or simplified. Note that in the first embodiment, at least the water discharge side state detection unit 20 is provided in the water discharge device 10, but in the second embodiment, at least either the opposing part side state detection unit 40 or the washbasin side state detection unit 50 is not provided in the water discharge device 10.

[0063] (1) Overview of the water discharge unit and water discharge control system 1, the water discharge unit 1 includes a washbasin 62 and a water discharge control system 100. The water discharge control system 100 includes a water discharge device 10 and a control unit 30. Furthermore, the water discharge control system 100 includes at least one of a water discharge side state detection unit 20, an opposing part side state detection unit 40, and a washbasin side state detection unit 50 as a means for detecting the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62.

[0064] In the first embodiment, the water discharge side state detection unit 20, which is a means for detecting the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62, is provided only in the water discharge device 10. However, in the second embodiment, the opposing side state detection unit 40 and the washbasin side state detection unit 50, which are among the means for detecting the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62, are provided in a location other than the water discharge device 10. Then, based on the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62 detected by at least one of the water discharge side state detection unit 20, the opposing side state detection unit 40, and the washbasin side state detection unit 50, the control unit 30 judges whether or not the water is full. If the control unit 30 judges that the water is full, it stops water discharge.

[0065] (2) An example of a water discharge control system according to the second embodiment An example of the water discharge control system 100 according to the second embodiment will be described below using the following water discharge control system example (1), water discharge control system example (2), and water discharge control system example (3). Note that the water discharge control system 100 according to the second embodiment is not limited to the following examples as long as it can stop water discharge when the water 5 in the washbasin 62 is full.

[0066] (2-1) An example of a water discharge control system (1) An example (1) of the water discharge control system 100 according to the second embodiment will be described below. Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example (1) of the water discharge control system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] The water discharge control system 100 includes a water discharge device 10, a water discharge side state detection unit 20, an opposing part side state detection unit 40, and a control unit 30. The water discharge side state detection unit 20 is disposed in the water discharge device 10, and in the case of the example of FIG. 5, it is disposed in the water discharge pipe 13. The water discharge side state detection unit 20 is disposed in a position in the water discharge pipe 13 where it can detect whether the water 5 in the washbasin 62 is full or not. The opposing part side state detection unit 40 is disposed in a position facing the water discharge side state detection unit 20 in the opposing part 70 facing the water discharge device 10, and is disposed in a position where it can detect whether the water 5 in the washbasin 62 is full or not. The opposing part 70 is a part facing the water discharge device 10, and is, for example, a wall of a washroom where the water discharge device 10 and the washbasin 62 are disposed.

[0068] The facing side condition detection unit 40 is capable of at least one of receiving and transmitting a signal for detecting the condition of the water 5 in the washbasin 62. In addition, the discharge side condition detection unit 20 is capable of at least one of receiving and transmitting a signal for detecting the condition of the water 5 in the washbasin 62 between the facing side condition detection unit 40. The discharge side condition detection unit 20 and the facing side condition detection unit 40 cooperate to detect the condition of the water 5 in the washbasin 62. In addition, examples of signals transmitted and received include infrared rays, ultrasonic waves, etc.

[0069] The discharge side condition detection section 20 and the opposing portion side condition detection section 40 will be described in more detail below.

[0070] In a first aspect, the discharge side status detection unit 20 can transmit a signal toward the water surface 5a of the washbasin 62. The facing side status detection unit 40 can receive a reflected signal that is the signal transmitted by the discharge side status detection unit 20 reflected by the water surface 5a. When the discharge side status detection unit 20 receives an instruction from the control unit 30 to start transmitting a signal based on the start of water discharge from the spout 14, the discharge side status detection unit 20 may start transmitting a signal toward the water 5 in the washbasin 62. Alternatively, the discharge side status detection unit 20 and the facing side status detection unit 40 may constantly transmit and receive signals.

[0071] Water 5 is full at the full water position P A When the water 5 is located at the full water position P, a signal transmitted from the discharge side status detection unit 20 to the water surface 5a is reflected by the water surface 5a and travels toward the facing side status detection unit 40. The facing side status detection unit 40 is able to receive this reflected signal. For example, this reflected signal may be slightly attenuated when reflected by the water surface 5a, but it travels toward the facing side status detection unit 40 with roughly a predetermined signal strength. Therefore, the facing side status detection unit 40 is able to determine whether the water 5 is at the full water position P A When the radar is located at a position, it is possible to receive a reflected signal with approximately a predetermined signal strength.

[0072] On the other hand, the water 5 is not full and the water surface 5a is at the full water position P AWhen the water surface 5a is not located at the full water position P, the signal transmitted from the discharge side state detection unit 20 to the water surface 5a is reflected by the inner surface 62a of the washbasin 62, for example, by passing through the water 5 or not passing through the water 5, and the reflected signal is not directed to the opposite side state detection unit 40. A If the water surface 5a is not located at the full water position P, for example, even if a signal transmitted from the discharge side state detection unit 20 to the water surface 5a is reflected by the water surface 5a, the reflected signal will not be directed to the opposite side state detection unit 40. A If the water 5 is not located at the full water position P, for example, the reflected signal of the signal transmitted from the discharge side state detection unit 20 to the water surface 5a is not received by the facing side state detection unit 40 with a predetermined signal strength. A If the reflected signal is not received, the reflected signal may not be received at a predetermined signal strength.

[0073] In this way, the full water position P A The discharge side state detection unit 20 and the opposing side state detection unit 40 are arranged so that the opposing side state detection unit 40 can receive a signal reflected by the water surface 5a. A The water discharge side state detection unit 20 is disposed in the water discharge device 10 so that the incident angle θa of the water discharger 10 to the water surface 5a is about 10° or more and about 40° or less. A The incident angle θa is reflected by the water surface 5a as a reflected signal with a reflection angle θa. The incident angle θa and the reflection angle θa are approximately equal. The facing portion side state detection unit 40 is disposed at a position in the facing portion 70 where it can receive the reflected signal with the reflection angle θa.

[0074] As a second aspect, the facing side condition detection unit 40 can transmit a signal toward the water surface 5a of the washbasin 62. The discharge side condition detection unit 20 can receive a reflected signal that is the signal transmitted by the facing side condition detection unit 40 reflected by the water surface 5a. When the facing side condition detection unit 40 receives an instruction from the control unit 30 to start transmitting a signal based on the start of water discharge from the spout 14, the facing side condition detection unit 40 may start transmitting a signal toward the water 5 in the washbasin 62. Alternatively, the discharge side condition detection unit 20 and the facing side condition detection unit 40 may constantly transmit and receive signals.

[0075] Water 5 is full at the full water position P A When the water 5 is located at the full water position P, a signal transmitted from the facing side condition detection unit 40 to the water surface 5a is reflected by the water surface 5a and travels toward the discharge side condition detection unit 20. The discharge side condition detection unit 20 is able to receive this reflected signal. For example, this reflected signal may be slightly attenuated when reflected by the water surface 5a, but it travels toward the discharge side condition detection unit 20 with roughly a predetermined signal strength. Therefore, the discharge side condition detection unit 20 determines whether the water 5 is at the full water position P A When the radar is located at a position, it is possible to receive a reflected signal with approximately a predetermined signal strength.

[0076] On the other hand, the water 5 is not full and the water surface 5a is at the full water position P A When the water level 5a is not at the full water position P, the signal transmitted from the facing side state detection unit 40 into the washbasin 62 is reflected by the inner surface 62a of the washbasin 62, for example, by passing through the water 5 or not passing through the water 5, and the reflected signal does not go to the discharge side state detection unit 20. A If the water surface 5a is not located at the full water position P, for example, even if a signal transmitted from the facing side state detection unit 40 to the water surface 5a is reflected by the water surface 5a, the reflected signal will not be directed to the discharge side state detection unit 20. A If the water 5 is not located at the full water position P, for example, the reflected signal of the signal transmitted from the facing side state detection unit 40 to the water surface 5a is not received by the discharge side state detection unit 20 with a predetermined signal strength. AIf the reflected signal is not received, the reflected signal may not be received at a predetermined signal strength.

[0077] In this way, the full water position P A The discharge side state detection unit 20 and the opposing side state detection unit 40 are arranged so that the discharge side state detection unit 20 can receive a signal reflected by the water surface 5a. A The opposing part side state detection unit 40 is disposed in the opposing part 70 so that the incident angle θa of the signal to the water surface 5a is about 10° or more and about 40° or less. A The reflected signal is reflected at the water surface 5a at a reflection angle θa. The incident angle θa and the reflection angle θa are approximately equal. The water discharge side state detection unit 20 is disposed at a position in the water discharge device 10 where it can receive the reflected signal at the reflection angle θa.

[0078] The control unit 30 is disposed in the water discharge device 10, and in the example of FIG. In the case of the first aspect described above, the control unit 30 receives a reflected signal from the opposing part side state detection unit 40. The control unit 30 judges whether the state of the water 5 is full or not based on the reception state of the reflected signal. If the control unit 30 judges that the water is full, it controls the water outlet 14 to stop discharging water. For example, if the control unit 30 does not receive a reflected signal from the opposing part side state detection unit 40, or if it receives a reflected signal with less than a predetermined signal strength, it judges that the water is not full. On the other hand, if the control unit 30 receives a reflected signal with approximately the predetermined signal strength from the opposing part side state detection unit 40, it judges that the water is full.

[0079] Furthermore, in the case of the second aspect described above, the control unit 30 receives a reflected signal from the discharge side state detection unit 20. The control unit 30 judges whether the state of the water 5 is full or not based on the reception state of the reflected signal. If the control unit 30 judges that the water is full, it controls to stop the discharge of water from the water outlet 14. For example, if the control unit 30 does not receive a reflected signal from the discharge side state detection unit 20, or if it receives a reflected signal of less than a predetermined signal strength, it judges that the water is not full. On the other hand, if the control unit 30 receives a reflected signal of approximately the predetermined signal strength from the discharge side state detection unit 20, it judges that the water is full.

[0080] Furthermore, the control unit 30 may control the water discharge to stop, and may instruct the water discharge side state detection unit 20 and the opposing side state detection unit 40 to stop transmitting and receiving signals. Alternatively, the water discharge side state detection unit 20 and the opposing side state detection unit 40 may always transmit and receive signals.

[0081] According to the above configuration, signals are sent and received by the discharge side status detection unit 20 and the opposing side status detection unit 40. The control unit 30 can determine whether the basin is full or not based on the reception state of the reflected signal received from the discharge side status detection unit 20 or the opposing side status detection unit 40. If the basin is full, the discharge of water 5 from the spout 14 is stopped. This makes it possible to omit an overflow hole and an overflow drainage path in the washbasin 62, and prevents water from overflowing from the washbasin 62. Furthermore, according to the above configuration, various problems such as the above-mentioned hygiene problems, aesthetic problems, and problems in the manufacturing process can be prevented.

[0082] In addition, in the case of the above configuration, since the discharge side state detection unit 20 is disposed in the water discharge device 10, it is possible to configure the water discharge control system 100 in a compact and simple manner. Furthermore, since the control unit 30 is also disposed in the water discharge device 10, it is possible to configure the water discharge control system 100 in an even more compact and simple manner.

[0083] Unlike the above, the control unit 30 may be provided separately from the water discharge device 10. The control unit 30 may perform remote communication with either the water discharge side state detection unit 20 or the opposing side state detection unit 40, and control the stop of water discharge via remote communication. However, if the control unit 30 is provided in the water discharge device 10, the water discharge side state detection unit 20 and the control unit 30 can be configured integrally with the water discharge device 10, making it possible to configure the water discharge control system 100 more compactly and more simply.

[0084] (2-2) An example of a water discharge control system (2) An example (2) of the water discharge control system 100 according to the second embodiment will be described below. Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example (2) of the water discharge control system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] The water discharge control system 100 includes a water discharge device 10, a water discharge side state detection unit 20, a washbasin side state detection unit 50, and a control unit 30. The water discharge side state detection unit 20 is disposed in the water discharge device 10, and in the example of FIG. 6, it is disposed in a position facing the washbasin side state detection unit 50 in the water discharge pipe 13, and is disposed in a position capable of receiving a signal from the washbasin side state detection unit 50. Here, the water discharge side state detection unit 20 is disposed in the tip 12 of the water discharge pipe 13. The washbasin side state detection unit 50 is disposed in a position facing the water discharge side state detection unit 20 of the water discharge device 10 in the inner surface 62a of the washbasin 62. In addition, the washbasin side state detection unit 50 is disposed in a position capable of detecting whether the water 5 in the washbasin 62 is full on the inner surface 62a of the washbasin 62. For example, the washbasin-side state detection unit 50 detects the full water position P A and the less than full water position P B It is located in the position between.

[0086] The washbasin-side state detection unit 50 can transmit a signal to detect the state of the water 5. In addition, the discharge-side state detection unit 20 can receive a signal to detect the state of the water 5 from the washbasin-side state detection unit 50. Specifically, the washbasin-side state detection unit 50 transmits a signal to the discharge-side state detection unit 20 to detect the state of the water 5, and the discharge-side state detection unit 20 receives the transmitted signal. The discharge-side state detection unit 20 and the washbasin-side state detection unit 50 cooperate to detect the state of the water 5. In addition, examples of signals transmitted and received include infrared rays and ultrasonic waves.

[0087] The water 5 in the washbowl 62 is not full and the water level 5a is at a position P B When the washbasin-side status detection unit 50 is in the lower position, the washbasin-side status detection unit 50 is not immersed in the water 5. Therefore, signals can be transmitted and received between the washbasin-side status detection unit 50 and the discharge-side status detection unit 20 without being affected by the water 5 and in a state where the signals are not attenuated at all.

[0088] On the other hand, the water 5 in the washbasin 62 is in a full water state and the water surface 5a is at a less than full water position P B Above full water level P A , the basin-side status detection unit 50 is immersed in the water 5. Therefore, the signal transmitted from the basin-side status detection unit 50 is attenuated by the influence of the water as it passes through the water 5. Therefore, the discharge-side status detection unit 20 is unable to receive a signal from the basin-side status detection unit 50, or even if it receives a signal from the basin-side status detection unit 50, it receives a signal that is attenuated by the influence of the water 5.

[0089] When the water discharge side state detection unit 20 and the washbasin side state detection unit 50 receive an instruction to start transmitting and receiving signals from the control unit 30 based on the start of water discharge from the water outlet 14, they may start transmitting and receiving signals between the water discharge side state detection unit 20 and the washbasin side state detection unit 50. Alternatively, the water discharge side state detection unit 20 and the washbasin side state detection unit 50 may always be transmitting and receiving signals.

[0090] The control unit 30 is disposed in the water discharge device 10, and in the example of FIG. 6, is disposed in the water discharge pipe 13. The control unit 30 receives from the water discharge side state detection unit 20 a signal that the water discharge side state detection unit 20 has received from the washbasin side state detection unit 50. The control unit 30 judges whether the state of the water 5 is full or not based on the reception state of this signal. If the control unit 30 judges that the water is full, it controls to stop the discharge of water from the water outlet 14. For example, if the control unit 30 receives a signal from the water discharge side state detection unit 20 in a state where the signal is not substantially attenuated, it judges that the water is not full. On the other hand, if the control unit 30 does not receive a signal from the water discharge side state detection unit 20, or if it receives an attenuated signal, it judges that the water is full.

[0091] Furthermore, the control unit 30 may control the water discharge to stop, and may instruct the washbasin-side condition detection unit 50 to stop sending signals. Alternatively, the washbasin-side condition detection unit 50 may always send signals.

[0092] According to the above configuration, signals are sent and received by the discharge side status detection unit 20 and the washbasin side status detection unit 50. The control unit 30 can determine whether the basin is full or not based on the reception status of the signal received from the discharge side status detection unit 20. If the basin is full, the discharge of water 5 from the spout 14 is stopped. This makes it possible to omit an overflow hole and an overflow drainage path in the washbasin 62, and prevents water from overflowing from the washbasin 62. Furthermore, according to the above configuration, various problems such as the above-mentioned hygiene problems, aesthetic problems, and problems in the manufacturing process can be prevented.

[0093] In addition, in the case of the above configuration, since the discharge side state detection unit 20 is disposed in the water discharge device 10, it is possible to configure the water discharge control system 100 in a compact and simple manner. Furthermore, since the control unit 30 is also disposed in the water discharge device 10, it is possible to configure the water discharge control system 100 in an even more compact and simple manner.

[0094] Unlike the above, the control unit 30 may be provided separately from the water discharge device 10. The control unit 30 may perform remote communication with the water discharge side state detection unit 20 and control the stop of water discharge via remote communication. However, if the control unit 30 is provided in the water discharge device 10, the water discharge side state detection unit 20 and the control unit 30 can be configured integrally with the water discharge device 10, making it possible to configure the water discharge control system 100 more compactly and more simply.

[0095] (2-3) An example of a water discharge control system (3) An example (3) of the water discharge control system 100 according to the second embodiment will be described below. Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example (3) of the water discharge control system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] The water discharge control system 100 includes a water discharge device 10, an opposing part side state detection unit 40, a washbasin side state detection unit 50, and a control unit 30. The opposing part side state detection unit 40 is located at a position facing the washbasin side state detection unit 50 in the opposing part 70 facing the water discharge device 10, and is arranged at a position where it can detect whether the water 5 in the washbasin 62 is full or not. The opposing part 70 is a part facing the water discharge device 10, for example, a wall of a washroom where the water discharge device 10 and the washbasin 62 are arranged. In addition, the washbasin side state detection unit 50 is located at a position facing the opposing part side state detection unit 40 of the opposing part 70 on the inner surface 62a of the washbasin 62. In addition, the washbasin side state detection unit 50 is located at a position where it can detect whether the water 5 in the washbasin 62 is full or not on the inner surface 62a of the washbasin 62. For example, the washbasin-side state detection unit 50 detects the full water position P A is placed higher.

[0097] The facing side condition detection unit 40 is capable of at least one of receiving and transmitting a signal for detecting the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62. In addition, the washbasin side condition detection unit 50 is capable of at least one of receiving and transmitting a signal for detecting the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62 between the facing side condition detection unit 40. The washbasin side condition detection unit 50 and the facing side condition detection unit 40 cooperate to detect the state of the water 5 in the washbasin 62. In addition, examples of signals transmitted and received include infrared rays, ultrasonic waves, etc.

[0098] The opposing part-side status detection unit 40 and the washbasin-side status detection unit 50 will be described in more detail below.

[0099] In a first aspect, the basin-side status detection unit 50 can transmit a signal toward the water surface 5a of the basin 62. The opposing-side status detection unit 40 can receive a reflected signal that is the signal transmitted by the basin-side status detection unit 50 and reflected by the water surface 5a. When the basin-side status detection unit 50 receives an instruction to start transmitting a signal from the control unit 30 based on the start of water discharge from the spout 14, the basin-side status detection unit 50 may start transmitting a signal toward the water 5 in the basin 62. Alternatively, the basin-side status detection unit 50 and the opposing-side status detection unit 40 may constantly transmit and receive signals.

[0100] Water 5 is full at the full water position P A When the water 5 is located at the full water position P, a signal transmitted from the basin-side status detection unit 50 to the water surface 5a is reflected by the water surface 5a and travels toward the opposing-side status detection unit 40. The opposing-side status detection unit 40 is able to receive this reflected signal. For example, this reflected signal may be slightly attenuated when reflected by the water surface 5a, but it travels toward the opposing-side status detection unit 40 with roughly a predetermined signal strength. Therefore, the opposing-side status detection unit 40 is able to determine whether the water 5 is at the full water position P. A When the radar is located at a position, it is possible to receive a reflected signal with approximately a predetermined signal strength.

[0101] On the other hand, the water 5 is not full and the water surface 5a is at the full water position P AWhen the water surface 5a is not at the full water position P, the signal transmitted from the basin-side state detection unit 50 to the water surface 5a is reflected by the inner surface 62a of the basin 62, for example, by passing through the water 5 or not passing through the water 5, and the reflected signal is not directed to the opposite-side state detection unit 40. A If the water surface 5a is not located at the full water position P, for example, even if a signal transmitted from the washbasin side state detection unit 50 to the water surface 5a is reflected by the water surface 5a, the reflected signal will not be directed to the opposite side state detection unit 40. A If the water 5 is not located at the full water position P, for example, the reflected signal of the signal transmitted from the washbasin side state detection unit 50 to the water surface 5a is not received by the opposing side state detection unit 40 with a predetermined signal strength. A If the reflected signal is not received, the reflected signal may not be received at a predetermined signal strength.

[0102] In this way, the full water position P A The washbasin-side state detector 50 and the opposing-side state detector 40 are arranged so that the opposing-side state detector 40 can receive a signal reflected by the water surface 5a of the washbasin. A The washbasin-side state detector 50 is disposed on the inner surface 62a of the washbasin 62 so that the incident angle θa of the washbasin-side state detector 50 to the water surface 5a is between about 10° and about 40°. A The incident angle θa is reflected by the water surface 5a as a reflected signal with a reflection angle θa. The incident angle θa and the reflection angle θa are approximately equal. The facing portion side state detection unit 40 is disposed at a position in the facing portion 70 where it can receive the reflected signal with the reflection angle θa.

[0103] As a second aspect, the facing part side status detection unit 40 can transmit a signal toward the water surface 5a of the basin 62. The basin side status detection unit 50 can receive a reflected signal that is the signal transmitted by the facing part side status detection unit 40 reflected by the water surface 5a. When the facing part side status detection unit 40 receives an instruction to start transmitting a signal from the control unit 30 based on the start of water discharge from the water outlet 14, the facing part side status detection unit 40 may start transmitting a signal toward the water 5 in the basin 62. Alternatively, the basin side status detection unit 50 and the facing part side status detection unit 40 may constantly transmit and receive signals.

[0104] Water 5 is full at the full water position P A When the water 5 is located at the full water position P, the signal transmitted from the facing part side status detection unit 40 to the water surface 5a is reflected by the water surface 5a and travels to the basin side status detection unit 50. The basin side status detection unit 50 is able to receive this reflected signal. For example, this reflected signal may be slightly attenuated when reflected by the water surface 5a, but it travels to the basin side status detection unit 50 with roughly a predetermined signal strength. Therefore, the basin side status detection unit 50 determines whether the water 5 is at the full water position P A When the radar is located at a position, it is possible to receive a reflected signal with approximately a predetermined signal strength.

[0105] On the other hand, the water 5 is not full and the water surface 5a is at the full water position P A When the water surface 5a is not at the full water position P, the signal transmitted from the counter side status detection unit 40 into the washbasin 62 is reflected by the inner surface 62a of the washbasin 62, for example, by passing through the water 5 or not passing through the water 5, and the reflected signal does not go to the washbasin side status detection unit 50. A If the water surface 5a is not located at the full water position P, even if a signal transmitted from the facing side state detection unit 40 to the water surface 5a is reflected by the water surface 5a, the reflected signal will not be directed to the washbasin side state detection unit 50. A If the water 5 is not located at the full water position P, for example, the reflected signal of the signal transmitted from the facing part side state detection unit 40 to the water surface 5a is not received by the washbasin side state detection unit 50 with a predetermined signal strength. AIf the reflected signal is not received, the reflected signal may not be received at a predetermined signal strength.

[0106] In this way, the full water position P A The basin-side state detector 50 and the opposing-side state detector 40 are arranged so that the basin-side state detector 50 can receive a signal reflected by the water surface 5a of the basin. A The opposing part side state detection unit 40 is disposed in the opposing part 70 so that the incident angle θb of the signal to the water surface 5a is between about 10° and about 40°. A The signal is reflected at the water surface 5a at the full water position P at the full water position θb. The incident angle θa and the reflection angle θa are approximately equal. The basin-side condition detector 50 is disposed at a position in the water discharge device 10 where it can receive the signal reflected at the reflection angle θb. In particular, the basin-side condition detector 50 is disposed at the full water position P at the full water position θb on the inner surface 62a. A is placed higher than

[0107] The control unit 30 is disposed in the water discharge device 10, and in the example of FIG. In the case of the first aspect described above, the control unit 30 receives a reflected signal from the opposing part side state detection unit 40. The control unit 30 judges whether the state of the water 5 is full or not based on the reception state of the reflected signal. If the control unit 30 judges that the water is full, it controls the water outlet 14 to stop discharging water. For example, if the control unit 30 does not receive a reflected signal from the opposing part side state detection unit 40, or if it receives a reflected signal with less than a predetermined signal strength, it judges that the water is not full. On the other hand, if the control unit 30 receives a reflected signal with approximately the predetermined signal strength from the opposing part side state detection unit 40, it judges that the water is full.

[0108] Furthermore, in the case of the second aspect described above, the control unit 30 receives a reflected signal from the washbasin-side state detection unit 50. The control unit 30 judges whether the state of the water 5 is full or not based on the reception state of the reflected signal. If the control unit 30 judges that the water 5 is full, it controls the water outlet 14 to stop discharging water. For example, if the control unit 30 does not receive a reflected signal from the washbasin-side state detection unit 50, or if it receives a reflected signal with a signal strength less than a predetermined value, it judges that the water is not full. On the other hand, if the control unit 30 receives a reflected signal with approximately the predetermined signal strength from the washbasin-side state detection unit 50, it judges that the water is full.

[0109] The control unit 30 may control the water discharge to stop and instruct the washbasin side condition detection unit 50 and the opposing part side condition detection unit 40 to stop sending and receiving signals. Alternatively, the washbasin side condition detection unit 50 and the opposing part side condition detection unit 40 may always send and receive signals.

[0110] According to the above configuration, signals are sent and received by the washbasin-side status detection unit 50 and the opposing-side status detection unit 40. The control unit 30 can determine whether the basin is full or not based on the reception state of the reflected signal received from the washbasin-side status detection unit 50 or the opposing-side status detection unit 40. If the basin is full, the discharge of water 5 from the spout 14 is stopped. This makes it possible to omit an overflow hole and an overflow drainage path in the washbasin 62, and prevents water from overflowing from the washbasin 62. Furthermore, according to the above configuration, various problems such as the above-mentioned hygiene problems, aesthetic problems, and problems in the manufacturing process can be prevented.

[0111] In addition, in the case of the above configuration, the facing part side condition detection unit 40 can be provided in the facing part 70, and the washbasin side condition detection unit 50 can be provided on the inner surface 62a of the washbasin 62, thereby forming a water discharge control system 100.

[0112] Unlike the above, the control unit 30 may be provided separately from the water discharge device 10. The control unit 30 may perform remote communication with either the washbasin side state detection unit 50 or the opposing side state detection unit 40, and may control the stopping of water discharge via remote communication. However, if the control unit 30 is provided in the water discharge device 10, the water discharge control system 100 can be configured more compactly and more simply.

[0113] As described above, the embodiment of the present invention has been disclosed in the above description, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0114] For example, in the above-described embodiment and each modification, the water discharge control system according to the present invention can be modified in various ways depending on the object to be implemented and the performance required. The present invention also includes appropriate combinations of all or part of the configurations of the above-described embodiment and each modification.

[0115] In other words, various modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments and each modified example in terms of mechanism, shape, material, quantity, position, arrangement, etc. without departing from the scope of the technical idea and purpose of the present invention, and such modifications are included in the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0116] 1: Water discharge unit 5:Water 5a: Water surface 10: Water discharge device 11: Proximal end 12:Tip 13: Water pipe 14: Water outlet 15: Handle 20: Water discharge side status detection unit 21: Photography Department 21a: Shooting surface 30: Control section 40: Opposing side status detection unit 50: Washbasin side status detection unit 60: Pedestal 61: Back support part 62:Wash basin 62a: Inner surface 62b: Drain port 63: Mirror 70: Opposing part 100: Water discharge control system PA: Full water position PB: Less than full water position

Claims

1. A water discharge device having a water discharge pipe extending from a base end to which water is supplied to a tip end, and a water discharge port provided at the tip end; A water discharge side state detection unit is disposed in the water discharge device and is capable of at least one of receiving and transmitting a signal for detecting the state of water in a washbasin that receives water discharged from the water outlet; A control unit that determines whether the state of the water in the washbasin detected by the water discharge side state detection unit is full or not, and when it determines that the state of the water is full, controls to stop the discharge of water from the water discharge port; A water discharge control system comprising:

2. The water discharge side state detection unit is an image capturing unit capable of capturing an image of the state of the water in the washbasin, The water discharge control system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit determines whether the water state is a full water state based on the image captured by the image capture unit.

3. The water discharge control system according to claim 2 , wherein the photographing surface of the photographing unit is approximately parallel to the water surface in the washbasin.

4. The water discharge side state detection unit is capable of transmitting a signal toward the inner surface of the washbasin, and is capable of receiving a reflected signal obtained by reflecting the signal transmitted toward the inner surface of the washbasin by the inner surface of the washbasin, The water discharge control system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit determines whether the water state is a full water state based on a reception state of the reflected signal at the water discharge side state detection unit.

5. The washing machine further includes a facing portion side state detection unit that is disposed in a facing portion facing the water discharge device and is capable of at least one of receiving and transmitting a signal for detecting the state of the water in the washing machine, The water discharge side state detection unit is capable of at least one of receiving and transmitting the signal between the water discharge side state detection unit and the opposing side state detection unit, The control unit of the water discharge control system described in claim 1 determines whether the water state is full or not based on the reception state by the discharge side state detection unit of the signal transmitted from the opposing side state detection unit, or the reception state by the opposing side state detection unit of the signal transmitted from the discharge side state detection unit.

6. The washbasin further includes a washbasin-side state detection unit that is arranged on the inner surface of the washbasin and is capable of transmitting a signal to detect the state of the water in the washbasin; The water discharge side state detection unit is capable of receiving the signal from the washbasin side state detection unit, The water discharge control system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines whether the water state is full or not based on the reception state of the signal transmitted from the washbasin side state detection unit by the water discharge side state detection unit.

7. An opposed-side state detection unit that is disposed in an opposed portion opposed to the water discharge device and is capable of at least one of receiving and transmitting a signal for detecting the state of the water in the washbasin; A washbasin side state detection unit that is arranged on the inner surface of the washbasin and is capable of at least one of receiving and transmitting a signal for detecting the state of the water in the washbasin; A control unit that determines whether the water state is full or not based on the reception state of the signal transmitted from the opposite side state detection unit by the washbasin side state detection unit, or the reception state of the signal transmitted from the washbasin side state detection unit by the opposite side state detection unit; A water discharge control system comprising:

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