Faucet device

Abstract

To provide a faucet device enabling improvement of the use feeling at the start of water discharge.SOLUTION: A faucet device according to an embodiment comprises a flow control valve, an actuator, a control device, an operation portion, and a water discharge / stop valve. The flow control valve adjusts the flow volume of hot water discharged from a discharge portion. The actuator drives the flow control valve. The control device controls a drive position of the flow control valve by controlling driving of the actuator. The operation portion receives flow volume adjustment operation of the hot water performed by a user and transmits an operation signal corresponding to the adjustment operation to the control device. The water discharge / stop valve shuts off hot water from the discharge portion. The flow control valve can be driven from a minimum opening degree at which the flow volume of the hot water is minimum to a maximum opening degree at which the flow volume of the hot water is maximum. The control device sets a position of the actuator at which the flow control valve becomes the maximum opening degree as an origin position, and controls the driving of the actuator.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, there is known a water faucet device that can adjust the flow rate by adjusting the opening degree of a valve using an actuator such as a motor (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-7821 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the prior art left room for improvement in terms of improving the user experience when the faucet device starts to dispense water. Specifically, in an actuator connected to a flow regulation valve, an origin position is set as the reference position for controlling the flow regulation valve. With such an actuator, a deviation may occur between the origin position and the predetermined drive position of the flow regulation valve due to aging or environmental changes. Therefore, it is necessary to set (adjust) the origin position of the actuator periodically or irregularly.

[0005] In setting this origin position, the drive position when the flow regulation valve is in a stopped state may be set to the origin position of the actuator. In such cases, when water discharge begins after the origin position has been set, it takes time for the flow regulation valve to move from the drive position in the stopped state to the drive position corresponding to the flow rate desired by the user (for example, a relatively large flow rate), which may result in a poor usability.

[0006] An object of one aspect of the embodiment is to provide a faucet device that can improve the usability when water discharge begins. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A faucet device according to one aspect of the embodiment comprises a flow control valve that adjusts the flow rate of hot and cold water discharged from a water discharge portion, an actuator that drives the flow control valve, a control device that controls the drive position of the flow control valve by controlling the drive of the actuator, an operation unit that accepts an adjustment operation of the hot and cold water flow rate by a user and sends an operation signal corresponding to the adjustment operation to the control device, and a water discharge / stop valve that stops the discharge of hot and cold water from the water discharge portion, wherein the flow control valve is configured to be operable from a minimum opening degree at which the flow rate of hot and cold water is minimum to a maximum opening degree at which the flow rate of hot and cold water is maximum, and the control device sets the position of the actuator at which the flow control valve is at the maximum opening degree as an origin position and controls the drive of the actuator.

[0008] In this way, the faucet device includes a flow regulation valve that adjusts the flow rate of hot and cold water discharged from the discharge portion, as well as a discharge / stop valve that stops the discharge of hot and cold water from the discharge portion. The control device also sets the actuator position at which the flow regulation valve is at its maximum opening as the origin position. By keeping the discharge / stop valve in a stopped state when the origin position is set, hot and cold water will not be discharged from the discharge portion even if the flow regulation valve is driven to its maximum opening position. Furthermore, when water discharge begins after the origin position is set, the flow regulation valve is driven from its maximum opening position to a position corresponding to the user's desired flow rate (e.g., a relatively large flow rate), allowing hot and cold water to be discharged at the desired flow rate quickly. In other words, the time required to adjust the water discharge rate after setting the origin position can be shortened, resulting in an improved user experience of the faucet device.

[0009] The flow regulation valve is set so that the flow rate of hot and cold water is greater than 0 when the valve is at the minimum opening.

[0010] In other words, the flow regulation valve is set so that it does not stop flow even at the minimum opening. This reduces the load on the flow regulation valve. For example, when a flow regulation valve is set so that the hot and cold water flow rate is 0 at the minimum opening and the flow is stopped, a relatively large amount of water pressure acts as a load on the flow regulation valve. As the load acting on the flow regulation valve increases, the driving force of the actuator that drives the flow regulation valve also increases. Therefore, the flow regulation valve is set so that the hot and cold water flow rate is greater than 0 at the minimum opening, thereby reducing the load on the flow regulation valve compared to when the flow is stopped. By reducing the load on the flow regulation valve, the driving force of the actuator that drives the flow regulation valve can also be reduced.

[0011] The water discharge / stop valve is an electromagnetic valve, and the control device controls the electromagnetic valve to control the discharge / stop of hot and cold water from the water discharge portion.

[0012] This makes it possible to control the discharge / stop valve and the flow regulation valve with a single control device, making the faucet device more compact. Also, by using a solenoid valve as the discharge / stop valve, the discharge / stop of hot and cold water from the discharge section can be controlled with good responsiveness, so that hot and cold water with the flow rate adjusted by the flow regulation valve can be discharged instantly.

[0013] Furthermore, after driving the actuator to the origin position, the control device controls the driving of the actuator so that the drive position of the flow regulation valve is the drive position before driving the actuator to the origin position.

[0014] In this way, the drive position of the flow regulation valve is returned to the drive position before it was driven to the origin position, so that the user who uses the faucet device after setting the origin position does not feel uncomfortable. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to improve the feeling of use when water discharge starts. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a bathroom unit in which a water faucet device according to an embodiment is installed. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view of the remote controller according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an outline of the water faucet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the faucet body. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the mixer faucet unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a front view of the mixer faucet unit. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view taken along the line VII-VII in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating the transmission mechanism. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the setting of the origin position of the motor. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the timing of executing the process of returning the motor to its origin. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing executed by the control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing executed by the control device according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0023] The following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the present invention will be given with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the following preferred embodiments.

[0018] A faucet device 1 according to an embodiment is provided, for example, in a bathroom unit 1000 as shown in Figure 1. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a bathroom unit 1000 in which a faucet device 1 according to an embodiment is provided.

[0019] Bathroom unit 1000 includes a bathtub 1001, a first counter 1002, a second counter 1003, and a faucet device 1. In the following description, when there is no need to distinguish between water discharged by faucet device 1, hot water, and mixed water discharged by faucet device 1 after water has been mixed, they will be referred to as "hot water."

[0020] In the following, the direction in which the second counter 1003 protrudes from the wall 1004a of the bathroom unit 1000 is referred to as the front, and the opposite side of the front is referred to as the rear, and the vertical direction is referred to as the down, and the opposite side of the down is referred to as the up, and the direction perpendicular to the front, back, and up, and down is referred to as the left, right, and left directions.

[0021] The first counter 1002 is attached to the wall portion 1004a of the bathroom unit 1000. The first counter 1002 protrudes from the wall portion 1004a into the bathroom. The first counter 1002 is provided above the washing area floor 1005 of the bathroom unit 1000. The faucet body 3 of the faucet device 1 is housed in the first counter 1002.

[0022] The second counter 1003 is attached to the wall 1004a. The second counter 1003 protrudes from the wall 1004a into the bathroom. The second counter 1003 is provided higher than the first counter 1002. For example, the second counter 1003 is provided so as to extend above the bathtub 1001. Note that the second counter 1003 does not have to extend above the bathtub 1001.

[0023] The second counter 1003 houses a portion of the faucet device 1. Specifically, the second counter 1003 houses a portion of the faucet 10 of the faucet device 1 and a portion of the hand shower 11 of the faucet device 1. The second counter 1003 is provided so that the spout 10a of the faucet 10 is exposed. The spout 10a of the faucet 10 is provided on the second counter 1003 so that the direction of hot and cold water spouting is downward.

[0024] In addition, the shower hose 11a of the hand shower 11 of the faucet device 1 is connected to the second counter 1003. The shower hose 11a is connected to a shower water conduit housed in the second counter 1003.

[0025] An overhead shower 12 of the faucet device 1 and a warm pillar 13 of the faucet device 1 are attached to the ceiling 1006 of the bathroom unit 1000. The overhead shower 12 and the warm pillar 13 are provided integrally.

[0026] The overhead shower 12 sprays hot water over a wider area of ​​the user than the hand shower 11. For example, the overhead shower 12 is configured so that hot water hits the entire body of the user. The warm pillar 13 collects hot water into a single stream and sprays it straight. In other words, the warm pillar 13 straightens and sprays the hot water so that it flows down in a continuous column.

[0027] A remote control 4 (operating unit) for the faucet device 1 is attached to a wall portion 1004b of the bathroom unit 1000. The remote control 4 may be attached to the wall portion 1004a on which the first counter 1002 and the second counter 1003 are attached.

[0028] The remote control 4 accepts various operations by the user on the faucet main body 3. Specifically, the remote control 4 accepts operations to adjust (set) the hot and cold water temperature in the faucet main body 3. The remote control 4 accepts operations to adjust (set) the hot and cold water flow rate in the faucet main body 3. The remote control 4 accepts operations to switch between discharging hot and cold water and stopping the water. The remote control 4 accepts operations to switch the destination of hot and cold water discharge. When operated by the user, the remote control 4 transmits an operation signal corresponding to each operation to the control device 7 of the faucet device 1 (see Figure 3).

[0029] 2, the remote control 4 includes, for example, a temperature adjustment button 41, a water volume adjustment button 42, and a switching button 43. Fig. 2 is a front view of the remote control 4 according to the embodiment.

[0030] The temperature adjustment button 41 is a button for adjusting the temperature of the mixed water in the faucet body 3. The temperature adjustment button 41 includes a high temperature button 41a and a low temperature button 41b. The high temperature button 41a is a button for increasing the temperature of the mixed water. The low temperature button 41b is a button for decreasing the temperature of the mixed water. The remote control 4 displays the set temperature of the mixed water on the first display unit 45a. When the high temperature button 41a or the low temperature button 41b is operated, the display on the first display unit 45a changes in accordance with the operation of each button 41a, 41b.

[0031] The temperature of the mixed water in the faucet body 3 can be adjusted within a predetermined temperature range. When the low temperature button 41b is operated and the set temperature of the mixed water becomes lower than the lowest temperature in the predetermined temperature range, the faucet body 3 does not mix hot water with cold water and instead dispenses cold water.

[0032] The water volume adjustment button 42 is a button for adjusting the flow rate of hot and cold water dispensed from the faucet device 1. The water volume adjustment button 42 includes an increase water button 42a and a decrease water button 42b. The increase water button 42a is a button for increasing the flow rate of hot and cold water. The decrease water button 42b is a button for decreasing the flow rate of hot and cold water. The remote control 4 displays the set status of the hot and cold water volume on the second display unit 45b. When the increase water button 42a or the decrease water button 42b is operated, the display on the second display unit 45b changes in accordance with the operation of each button 42a, 42b. The flow rate of hot and cold water dispensed from the faucet device 1 can be adjusted within a predetermined flow rate range.

[0033] The switching button 43 is a button for switching between discharging hot and cold water and stopping the water supply in the faucet device 1. The switching button 43 is also a button for switching the destination of the hot and cold water supply in the faucet device 1. The switching buttons 43 include a faucet button 43a, a hand shower button 43b, an overhead shower button 43c, and a warm pillar button 43d. Each of the buttons 43a to 43d can be switched between "ON" and "OFF" when pressed by the user.

[0034] When each of the buttons 43a to 43d of the switching button 43 is set to "OFF," hot or cold water is not discharged. In other words, the water faucet device 1 is in a water stop state.

[0035] When any one of the switching buttons 43, 43a to 43d, is pressed from the "OFF" state, and the pressed switching button 43 becomes "ON," hot or cold water is discharged. In other words, the water faucet device 1 changes from a water stop state to a water discharge state.

[0036] When one of the switching buttons 43 is "ON" and another switching button 43 is pressed, the switching button 43 that is "ON" is changed, and the destination of hot and cold water is switched.

[0037] For example, when hand shower button 43b is "ON," hot and cold water is discharged from hand shower 11. When faucet button 43a is pressed in this state, hand shower button 43b turns "OFF" and faucet button 43a turns "ON." This changes the destination of hot and cold water discharge from hand shower 11 to faucet 10, and hot and cold water is discharged from faucet 10.

[0038] When the "ON" switch button 43 is pressed again, the pressed switch button 43 turns "OFF," and each of the buttons 43a to 43d of the switch button 43 turns "OFF," stopping the flow of hot and cold water. In other words, the water faucet device 1 changes from a water discharge state to a water stop state.

[0039] Each of the buttons 43a to 43d is configured so that the user can distinguish between the "ON" and "OFF" states. For example, a switching button 43 that is "ON" lights up, and a switching button 43 that is "OFF" lights up.

[0040] Although the faucet device 1 capable of discharging hot and cold water from the overhead shower 12, warm pillar 13, hand shower 11, and faucet 10 has been described as an example here, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the faucet device 1 may be configured without the overhead shower 12 and warm pillar 13.

[0041] Next, an overview of the faucet device 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an overview of the faucet device 1 according to the embodiment. In Fig. 3, the flow of hot and cold water is indicated by solid arrows, and communication lines are indicated by dashed lines.

[0042] The faucet device 1 comprises a plurality of water discharge units 2, a faucet body 3, a remote control 4, and a communication unit 5.

[0043] The plurality of water discharge units 2 include a faucet 10, a hand shower 11, an overhead shower 12, and a warm pillar 13.

[0044] The faucet body 3 includes a mixer faucet unit 20, a water discharge switching section 30, and a control device 7.

[0045] The mixing faucet unit 20 includes a hot and cold water mixing section 50 and a flow rate adjusting section 60. Hot water is supplied to the hot and cold water mixing section 50 from a hot water supply source 80. Water is also supplied to the hot and cold water mixing section 50 from a water supply source 81. A stop valve 84 is provided in the flow path between the hot and cold water mixing section 50 and the hot water supply source 80. A stop valve 85 is also provided in the flow path between the hot and cold water mixing section 50 and the water supply source 81.

[0046] The hot and cold water mixing unit 50 mixes hot water supplied from the hot water supply source 80 with cold water supplied from the cold water supply source 81. Specifically, the hot and cold water mixing unit 50 switches whether or not to mix hot water with cold water. The hot and cold water mixing unit 50 also adjusts the ratio of hot water to be mixed with cold water, thereby adjusting the temperature of the mixed water.

[0047] The hot and cold water mixing unit 50 includes a motor 51. The motor 51 is, for example, a stepping motor. When the temperature adjustment button 41 on the remote control 4 is operated, the hot and cold water mixing unit 50 drives the temperature control valve 210 (see FIG. 7) to switch whether or not to mix hot water with cold water.

[0048] Furthermore, in response to operation of the temperature adjustment button 41 on the remote control 4, the hot and cold water mixing unit 50 drives the temperature control valve 210 by driving the motor 51, thereby adjusting the ratio of hot water to be mixed with water. Furthermore, even if the temperature adjustment button 41 is not operated, when the temperature of the hot water changes and the temperature of the mixed water changes, the hot and cold water mixing unit 50 can automatically adjust the temperature of the mixed water by adjusting the ratio of the flow rate of hot water to the flow rate of water according to the temperature of the mixed water.

[0049] In this way, the temperature adjustment valve 210 is a valve that adjusts the temperature of hot and cold water discharged from the water discharger 2. The temperature adjustment valve 210 is also an example of an adjustment valve that adjusts the temperature of hot and cold water discharged from the water discharger 2.

[0050] Hot and cold water flows into the flow rate adjusting unit 60 from the hot and cold water mixing unit 50. When hot and cold water is discharged from the water discharge unit 2, the flow rate adjusting unit 60 adjusts the flow rate of the discharged hot and cold water.

[0051] The flow rate adjustment unit 60 includes a motor 61. The motor 61 is, for example, a stepping motor. In response to operation of the water volume adjustment button 42 on the remote control 4, the motor 61 is driven to drive the flow regulation valve 230 (see FIG. 7), thereby adjusting the flow rate of hot and cold water.

[0052] In this way, flow adjustment valve 230 is a valve that adjusts the flow rate of hot and cold water discharged from water discharger 2. Flow adjustment valve 230 is also an example of an adjustment valve that adjusts the flow rate of hot and cold water discharged from water discharger 2.

[0053] The motors 51 and 61 described above are examples of actuators. While the above example shows the actuator being a stepping motor, the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the actuator may be any actuator capable of driving the temperature adjustment valve 210 or the flow adjustment valve 230, and when combined with an SMA (Shape Memory Alloy) valve or a cylinder valve, motors such as geared motors, DC motors, and servo motors may be considered. Alternatively, the actuator may be a needle valve or other valve and drive means.

[0054] The water discharge switching unit 30 switches between discharging and stopping the hot and cold water flowing out of the mixer faucet unit 20. In other words, the water discharge switching unit 30 switches between discharging and stopping the hot and cold water from the water discharge unit 2. The water discharge switching unit 30 also switches the destination of the hot and cold water to be discharged. The faucet device 1 switches between discharging and stopping the hot and cold water from the water discharge unit 2 using the water discharge switching unit 30, and adjusts the flow rate of the hot and cold water when it is being discharged using the flow rate adjustment unit 60.

[0055] The water discharge switching unit 30 includes a plurality of solenoid valves 31 to 35. Specifically, the water discharge switching unit 30 includes a first solenoid valve 31, a second solenoid valve 32, a third solenoid valve 33, and a fourth solenoid valve 34. The water discharge switching unit 30 may also include a fifth solenoid valve 35. The first solenoid valve 31 to the fourth solenoid valve 34 are examples of water discharge / stop valves that stop the discharge of hot and cold water from the water discharge unit 2.

[0056] The first solenoid valve 31 to the fourth solenoid valve 34 are switched between "closed (OFF)" and "open (ON)" in response to the operation of the switching button 43.

[0057] When the first solenoid valve 31 to the fourth solenoid valve 34 are "closed," hot or cold water is not discharged from the water discharge section 2. In other words, when the first solenoid valve 31 to the fourth solenoid valve 34 are "closed," hot or cold water is stopped. When any one of the first solenoid valve 31 to the fourth solenoid valve 34 is "open," hot or cold water is discharged from the water discharge section 2 corresponding to the solenoid valve that is "open."

[0058] The first solenoid valve 31 switches between discharging hot and cold water at the faucet 10 and stopping the water flow. The second solenoid valve 32 switches between discharging hot and cold water at the hand shower 11 and stopping the water flow. The third solenoid valve 33 switches between discharging hot and cold water at the overhead shower 12 and stopping the water flow. The fourth solenoid valve 34 switches between discharging hot and cold water at the warm pillar 13 and stopping the water flow.

[0059] For example, when the first solenoid valve 31 is "open" and the second solenoid valve 32 to the fourth solenoid valve are "closed", hot and cold water is discharged from the faucet .

[0060] The fifth solenoid valve 35 is switched to "closed (OFF)" or "open (ON)" in response to operation by an external device 89 (for example, a multi-remote control provided in the bathroom). The fifth solenoid valve 35 may also be switched to "closed" or "open" in response to operation by the remote control 4. The fifth solenoid valve 35 is a valve for discharging residual water from the hose of the hand shower 11 or the like and from the piping, and is normally kept "closed." In other words, the fifth solenoid valve 35 is "open" only when residual water treatment is performed. When the fifth solenoid valve 35 is "open," residual water is discharged from the residual water discharge flow path 88.

[0061] The control device 7 is a controller. The control device 7 includes, for example, a microcomputer having a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc., and various circuits. The control device 7 may also include hardware such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0062] The control device 7 controls the motors 51 and 61 in response to an operation of the faucet body 3 received by operating the remote control 4. For example, the control device 7 controls the drive position of the temperature control valve 210 and adjusts the temperature of the hot and cold water by controlling the drive of the motor 51 in response to an operation to adjust the temperature of the hot and cold water received by operating the remote control 4. The control device 7 also controls the drive position of the flow control valve 230 and adjusts the flow rate of the hot and cold water by controlling the drive of the motor 61 in response to an operation to adjust the flow rate of the hot and cold water received by operating the remote control 4.

[0063] The control device 7 controls the first solenoid valve 31 to the fourth solenoid valve 34 in response to the operation of the faucet main body 3 received by operating the remote control 4. The control device 7 also controls the fifth solenoid valve 35 in response to the operation of an external device 89, for example.

[0064] The control device 7 is equipped with a timer capable of measuring time. For example, the control device 7 can use the timer to measure the elapsed time since the execution of the origin reset process described below. Specifically, the control device 7 can measure the elapsed time from the execution of the previous origin reset process (more precisely, from the completion of the previous origin reset process) to the current time. The control device 7 can also use the timer to measure the water stop duration, which indicates the time that the water stop state has continued. Specifically, the control device 7 can measure the time that the water discharger 2 has continued to be in the water stop state since it changed from the water discharge state to the water stop state (the time from when the water stopped state was entered to the current time) as the water stop duration.

[0065] The communication unit 5 receives operation signals from the remote control 4 and the external device 89, and transmits the received operation signals to the control device 7. The remote control 4 and the external device 89 are connected to the communication unit 5 by wired communication or wireless communication. The control device 7 is connected to the communication unit 5 by wired communication or wireless communication.

[0066] The water faucet device 1 also includes a notification unit 4a. The notification unit 4a is provided in the remote control 4. The notification unit 4a includes at least one of a display device such as a display and an audio output device such as a speaker, and notifies the user of various information. The information notified to the user includes, for example, information indicating that the water faucet device 1 is currently executing a home position setting process, which will be described later. Note that while FIG. 3 shows an example in which the notification unit 4a is provided in the remote control 4, this is not limiting and the notification unit 4a may be provided separately from the remote control 4.

[0067] Next, the faucet body 3 will be described with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the faucet body 3. The faucet body 3 comprises a mixer faucet unit 20, a water discharge switching unit 30, and a control device 7 (see Figure 3), as well as a flow path unit 70. The faucet body 3 is attached to the wall 1004a (see Figure 1) of the bathroom unit 1000 by the flow path unit 70.

[0068] The flow path unit 70 is formed with a flow path that allows hot water supplied from a hot water supply source 80 (see Figure 3) to flow into the mixer tap unit 20, a flow path that allows water supplied from a water supply source 81 (see Figure 3) to flow into the mixer tap unit 20, and a flow path that allows hot and cold water to flow from the mixer tap unit 20 to each water discharge section 2. The flow path unit 70 is also provided with a water discharge switching section 30. The flow path unit 70 is also provided with stop valves 84, 85 (see Figure 3). The flow path unit 70 is also provided with a residual water discharge flow path 88.

[0069] In the faucet body 3, a flow path unit 70 is provided at the rear, and a mixer faucet unit 20 is provided in front of the flow path unit 70. A part of the flow path unit 70 is provided above the mixer faucet unit 20. Also, a control box 7a that houses the control device 7 is provided in front of the mixer faucet unit 20.

[0070] Next, the mixer faucet unit 20 will be described with reference to Figures 5 to 7. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the mixer faucet unit 20. Figure 6 is a front view of the mixer faucet unit 20. Figure 7 is a perspective view of the VII-VII cross section of Figure 6.

[0071] The mixer faucet unit 20 is provided so as to extend in the left-right direction. A motor case 200 that houses the motor 51 of the hot and cold water mixing section 50 is provided at one left-right end of the mixer faucet unit 20, specifically the left end. A motor case 201 that houses the motor 61 of the flow rate adjustment section 60 is provided at the other left-right end of the mixer faucet unit 20, specifically the right end.

[0072] The hot and cold water mixing unit 50 switches whether or not to mix the hot water supplied from the hot water supply channel 203 with the water supplied from the water supply channel 202 by moving the temperature adjustment valve 210 (adjustment valve) in the left-right direction.

[0073] For example, when the temperature control valve 210 abuts against the case 211 provided to the left of the temperature control valve 210, the supply of hot water is blocked by the temperature control valve 210, and the hot water is not mixed with the water supplied from the water supply path 202.

[0074] Furthermore, by separating the temperature control valve 210 from the case 211, the supply of hot water is not blocked by the temperature control valve 210, and the hot water supplied from the hot water supply path 203 is mixed with the water supplied from the water supply path 202.

[0075] The temperature control valve 210 is biased by the temperature sensitive spring 212 in a direction away from the case 211. The temperature control valve 210 is also biased by the bias spring 213 in a direction toward contact with the case 211. That is, the temperature control valve 210 moves left and right depending on the magnitude relationship between the biasing force of the temperature sensitive spring 212 and the biasing force of the bias spring 213.

[0076] The temperature-sensitive spring 212 is a spring whose spring constant changes depending on the temperature, and is made of, for example, a shape memory alloy. The bias spring 213 is a spring whose spring constant is almost constant regardless of the temperature.

[0077] When the biasing force of the bias spring 213 is greater than the biasing force of the temperature-sensing spring 212, the temperature control valve 210 moves leftward toward the case 211. When the temperature control valve 210 is in contact with the case 211, the temperature control valve 210 is maintained in contact with the case 211.

[0078] When the biasing force of the temperature-sensing spring 212 is greater than the biasing force of the bias spring 213, the temperature adjustment valve 210 moves to the right so as to move away from the case 211.

[0079] When the biasing force of the temperature sensitive spring 212 and the biasing force of the bias spring 213 are equal, the temperature adjustment valve 210 does not move left or right and is held in a position where the biasing force of the temperature sensitive spring 212 and the biasing force of the bias spring 213 are balanced.

[0080] The temperature-sensing spring 212 abuts against the liner 214 at one end opposite to the end that abuts against the temperature control valve 210. The liner 214 is connected to a rotating shaft 216 via a spindle 215. The spindle 215 is rotatably supported by the case 211, and converts the rotational movement of the rotating shaft 216 into linear movement of the liner 214 in the left-right direction. Therefore, the liner 214 moves left-right in response to the rotation of the rotating shaft 216.

[0081] The rotating shaft 216 is connected to the motor 51 via a transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism is housed in the motor case 200. The transmission mechanism includes a first gear connected to the rotating shaft of the motor 51 and a second gear connected to the rotating shaft 216. The first gear and the second gear mesh with each other. The rotation of the rotating shaft of the motor 51 is transmitted to the rotating shaft 216 by the transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism is the same as the transmission mechanism in the flow rate adjustment unit 60, which will be described later.

[0082] In the hot and cold water mixing unit 50, the liner 214 moves left and right in accordance with the rotational position of the rotating shaft 216, i.e., in accordance with the rotational position of the rotating shaft of the motor 51. That is, the hot and cold water mixing unit 50 can change the position of the temperature control valve 210 to a position where the biasing force of the temperature sensitive spring 212 and the biasing force of the bias spring 213 are balanced in accordance with the rotational position of the rotating shaft of the motor 51. As a result, when discharging mixed water, the hot and cold water mixing unit 50 can set the temperature of the mixed water to a set temperature that corresponds to the rotational position of the rotating shaft of the motor 51.

[0083] Furthermore, when discharging mixed water, if the temperature of the hot water changes and the temperature of the mixed water changes, for example, the temperature-sensitive spring 212 expands and contracts according to the temperature of the mixed water, and the temperature control valve 210 moves left and right, automatically changing the equilibrium position of the temperature control valve 210. This adjusts the amount of hot water and cold water in the mixed water, and automatically adjusts the temperature of the mixed water.

[0084] The hot and cold water mixer 50 is in communication with the flow rate adjuster 60 via a communication hole 220. Hot and cold water flows into the flow rate adjuster 60 from the hot and cold water mixer 50 via the communication hole 220.

[0085] The flow rate adjustment unit 60 changes the area of ​​communication between the opening of the restricting member 221 and the opening of the flow rate adjustment valve 230 by rotating the flow rate adjustment valve 230 (adjustment valve) around an imaginary axis extending in the left-right direction, thereby changing the opening degree of the flow rate adjustment valve 230. By changing the opening degree of the flow rate adjustment valve 230, the flow rate adjustment unit 60 adjusts the flow rate of hot and cold water flowing out of the mixer faucet unit 20, i.e., the flow rate of hot and cold water discharged from the water discharge unit 2 (see FIG. 3). The flow rate adjustment valve 230 is set to a minimum opening degree at which the flow rate of hot and cold water from the water discharge unit 2 is minimum, and a maximum opening degree at which the flow rate of hot and cold water is maximum. The flow rate adjustment valve 230 is configured to be drivable (rotatable) from this minimum opening degree to this maximum opening degree.

[0086] The flow regulation valve 230 is connected to a rotating shaft portion 231. As shown in FIG. 8, the rotating shaft portion 231 is connected to the motor 61 (see FIG. 3) via a transmission mechanism 240. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating the transmission mechanism 240. The transmission mechanism 240 includes a first gear 241 connected to the rotating shaft 61a of the motor 61, and a second gear 242 connected to the rotating shaft portion 231. The first gear 241 and the second gear 242 mesh with each other. The transmission mechanism 240 is housed in a motor case 201 (see FIG. 5, etc.).

[0087] The second gear 242 is provided with a position detector 250 that detects the drive position of the second gear 242. The position detector 250 can detect that the second gear 242 is in a predetermined position (predetermined drive position). Specifically, the position detector 250 includes a magnet 251 and a sensor 252.

[0088] Magnet 251 is attached to second gear 242. Magnet 251 is attached to the outer circumferential side of side surface 242a of second gear 242, for example, near the root circle of second gear 242. More specifically, magnet 251 is attached so as to be located in front of the sensor surface of sensor 252 when second gear 242 is in a predetermined position.

[0089] The sensor 252 is provided in the motor case 201 (see FIG. 7 ). A Hall IC may be used as the sensor 252. Hereinafter, the sensor 252 may be referred to as the “Hall IC 252.” The Hall IC 252 is provided to face the outer periphery of the side surface 242a of the second gear 242. The Hall IC 252 detects whether the magnet 251 is located in front of the detection surface and the second gear 242 is in a predetermined position, or whether the magnet 251 is not located in front of the detection surface and the second gear 242 is not in a predetermined position. Since the second gear 242 is connected to the flow regulation valve 230 via the rotating shaft 231, the Hall IC 252 can be said to detect whether the flow regulation valve 230 is in a predetermined position (a predetermined drive position) or not in a predetermined position. The Hall IC 252 outputs the detection result to the control device 7.

[0090] Here, the "predetermined position" mentioned above is the drive position of the second gear 242 (flow regulation valve 230) that corresponds to the origin position of the motor 61. More specifically, the "predetermined position" is the drive position of the second gear 242 (flow regulation valve 230) that should correspond to the origin position, and is a drive position that is determined in advance. The origin position of the motor 61 is the reference position for control of the flow regulation valve 230. For example, the motor 61 is set as step 0, with the origin position being the control reference. When the motor 61 is in the origin position (i.e., in the step 0 state), if the target opening of the flow regulation valve 230 is set in accordance with the adjustment of the hot and cold water flow rate, the motor 61 is driven by the number of steps that corresponds to the motor drive amount that rotates the drive position of the flow regulation valve 230 from the origin position (step 0) to the target opening. Driving this motor 61 rotates the first gear 241 via the rotary shaft 61a, and the rotation of the first gear 241 is transmitted to the second gear 242, which also rotates. The rotation of the second gear 242 is transmitted to the flow regulation valve 230 via the rotary shaft portion 231. As a result, the flow regulation valve 230 rotates to a drive position where the opening degree becomes the target opening degree.

[0091] The origin position of the motor 61 is where the position detection mechanism of the motor 61 is located, and where there is a rotation restricting part such as a stopper on the valve side (here, the flow regulation valve 230 side or the second gear 242 side).

[0092] In this embodiment, the "predetermined position" is set to the drive position of the second gear 242 (flow regulation valve 230) at which the flow regulation valve 230 is at its maximum opening. In other words, the "predetermined position" is the drive position of the second gear 242 that should correspond to the origin position of the motor 61, and therefore the drive position of the second gear 242 at which the flow regulation valve 230 is at its maximum opening is set as the drive position of the second gear 242 that should correspond to the origin position of the motor 61.

[0093] Setting the origin position of the motor 61 will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a diagram for explaining setting the origin position of the motor 61. Fig. 9 also shows a graph illustrating the relationship between the position of the motor 61 and the opening degree of the flow regulation valve 230. In this graph, the horizontal axis represents the motor angle (rotation angle) indicating the position of the motor 61, and the vertical axis represents the opening degree of the flow regulation valve 230.

[0094] 9, the position of the motor 61 where the flow regulation valve 230 is at its maximum opening is set as the origin position of the motor 61 (the position where the motor angle is 0 (0 step)). Note that in the process of setting (adjusting) the origin position of the motor 61, the motor 61 is controlled to drive the flow regulation valve 230, which will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0095] The control device 7 controls the motor 61, whose origin position is set in this manner, so that the opening of the flow adjustment valve 230 becomes the target opening. Specifically, the flow adjustment valve 230 rotates within a predetermined rotation range in response to the user's operation of the water volume adjustment buttons 42 (increase button 42a, decrease button 42b) on the remote control 4. More specifically, when the user operates the water volume adjustment button 42, an operation signal corresponding to the operation of the water volume adjustment button 42 is transmitted to the control device 7. The control device 7 sets the target opening of the flow adjustment valve 230 in response to the received operation signal, sets the drive amount of the motor 61 such that the opening of the flow adjustment valve 230 becomes the target opening, and outputs a pulse signal corresponding to the set drive amount to the motor 61. As a result, the motor 61 rotates the first gear 241 in response to the pulse signal, thereby rotating the flow adjustment valve 230. As a result, the opening of the flow adjustment valve 230 becomes the target opening, and hot or cold water at the flow rate desired by the user via the water volume adjustment button 42 is discharged from the water discharge unit 2.

[0096] Furthermore, the motor 61 and the flow adjustment valve 230 are set so that the flow adjustment valve 230 is at its minimum opening when the motor angle is at its maximum angle. Here, the flow adjustment valve 230 is set so that the flow rate of hot and cold water at its minimum opening is greater than 0. In other words, the flow adjustment valve 230 is set so that it does not stop the flow of water even at its minimum opening. In this embodiment, the flow adjustment valve 230 does not stop the flow of water even at its minimum opening, but by keeping the first solenoid valve 31 to the fourth solenoid valve 34 (see FIG. 3) in their stopped states, hot and cold water is not discharged from the water discharger 2 (water is stopped).

[0097] 9 shows an example in which the flow regulation valve 230 is set to the minimum angle when the motor angle is the maximum angle, but this is not limiting. For example, the flow regulation valve 230 may be set to the minimum angle when the motor angle is a value smaller than the maximum angle.

[0098] 8, when the Hall IC 252 detects that the magnet 251 is located in front of the detection surface and the second gear 242 is in a predetermined position, in other words, that the flow regulation valve 230 is at its maximum opening, it outputs a "Low" signal. On the other hand, when the Hall IC 252 detects that the magnet 251 is not located in front of the detection surface and the second gear 242 is not in a predetermined position, in other words, that the flow regulation valve 230 is not at its maximum opening, it outputs a "High" signal.

[0099] Here, the rotation directions of the first gear 241, the second gear 242, the motor 61, and the flow regulation valve 230 will be described. As described above, the first gear 241 is connected to the motor 61. The origin position of the motor 61 is set to a position where the flow regulation valve 230 is at its maximum opening. Therefore, as shown by the solid arrow in FIG. 8, when the motor 61 rotates toward the origin (i.e., the direction in which the motor angle decreases) and the first gear 241 rotates clockwise, the second gear 242 rotates counterclockwise, and the flow regulation valve 230 rotates in the valve opening direction. On the other hand, as shown by the dashed arrow in FIG. 8, when the motor 61 rotates toward the opposite origin (i.e., the direction in which the motor angle increases) and the first gear 241 rotates counterclockwise, the second gear 242 rotates clockwise, and the flow regulation valve 230 rotates in the valve closing direction.

[0100] While the above description is directed to the motor 61 that drives the flow adjustment valve 230, this description also generally applies to the motor 51 that drives the temperature adjustment valve 210. That is, as an example, the position of the motor 51 when the temperature adjustment valve 210 is at an angle that maximizes the amount of water is set as the origin position of the motor 51. Furthermore, the motor 51 and the temperature adjustment valve 210 are set so that the angle at which the temperature adjustment valve 210 maximizes the amount of hot water when the motor angle is at its maximum.

[0101] Next, the timing of executing the origin reset process for driving the motor 61 to the origin position will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a diagram for explaining the timing of executing the origin reset process for the motor 61. Note that, although the origin reset process for the motor 61 will be described below, this description generally also applies to the origin reset process for the motor 51.

[0102] Figure 10 shows an example in which the origin reset process is performed at time T11, followed by hot and cold water being dispensed at time T12 when the user uses the faucet device 1, and then hot and cold water is stopped at time T13 when the user stops using the faucet device 1. In this usage situation, as shown by the X mark and the two-dot chain line in Figure 10, if the origin reset process is performed between times T12 and T13 when the user is using the faucet device 1, an event such as the flow adjustment valve 230 being actuated and the flow rate changing may occur, causing the user to feel uncomfortable. Therefore, in this embodiment, the origin reset process can be performed at the appropriate timing.

[0103] Specifically, the control device 7 executes the origin reset process when the water discharger 2 changes from a water discharge state to a water stop state and the water stop state continues for a certain period of time. More specifically, the control device 7 executes the origin reset process when a predetermined time has passed since the previous execution of the origin reset process (see time T11) and the water discharger 2 changes from a water discharge state to a water stop state and the water stop state continues for a certain period of time.

[0104] The above-mentioned predetermined time is set to a time (e.g., 720 hours) when a certain amount of time has passed since the previous origin reset process and it is estimated that the origin reset process is now necessary. Hereinafter, the predetermined time may be referred to as the "adjustment required time A1." Also, the above-mentioned fixed time is set to a time (e.g., 3 hours) during which the origin reset process cannot be performed, because there is a possibility that a user will use the faucet device 1 after the water supply has been stopped. Hereinafter, the fixed time may be referred to as the "non-adjustable time A2." Note that, although specific numerical values ​​are given above for the adjustment required time and non-adjustable time, these are merely examples and are not limiting, and can be set to any value.

[0105] Specifically, the control device 7 uses a timer to measure the elapsed time since the origin reset process was executed at time T11 (more precisely, since the origin reset process was completed). The control device 7 also uses a timer to measure the water stop duration, which indicates the time that the water stop state has continued since the water discharger 2 changed from the water discharge state to the water stop state (see times T13 and T17).

[0106] In the example of Figure 10, at time T14, the duration of water stoppage exceeds the non-adjustable time A2, so it is unlikely that the user will use the faucet device 1, and the origin reset process can be executed. However, because the time elapsed since the previous origin reset process has not exceeded the adjustment required time A1, the control device 7 does not execute the origin reset process at time T14. In other words, the control device 7 does not execute the origin reset process until the origin reset process is necessary for the motor 61 (i.e., until the elapsed time exceeds the adjustment required time A1).

[0107] Next, at time T15, it is assumed that the time elapsed since the previous origin setting process exceeds the adjustment required time A1. Next, at time T16, hot and cold water is discharged by using the faucet device 1, and the hot and cold water is stopped at time T17. Then, at time T18, it is assumed that the duration of the water stoppage exceeds the non-adjustable time A2. The control device 7 executes the origin setting process when the time elapsed since the previous origin setting process exceeds the adjustment required time A1 and the duration of the water stoppage exceeds the non-adjustable time A2 (see time T18).

[0108] In this way, the control device 7 according to this embodiment executes the origin reset process when it is estimated that the user has finished using the faucet device 1 and that the execution of the origin reset process will not cause discomfort to the user (i.e., when the duration of water stoppage exceeds the non-adjustable time A2). The control device 7 according to this embodiment also executes the origin reset process when it is estimated that the origin reset process is necessary (i.e., when the time elapsed since the previous origin reset process exceeds the adjustment required time A1). As a result, in this embodiment, the origin reset process can be executed at an appropriate timing that is unlikely to cause discomfort to the user and when the origin reset process becomes necessary.

[0109] Next, an origin setting process (origin setting process) according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 11 and Fig. 12. Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 are flowcharts showing an example of a process executed by the control device 7 according to the embodiment. This process is repeatedly executed while the control device 7 is running.

[0110] As shown in Fig. 11, the control device 7 measures the time elapsed since the previous execution of the origin reset process and the duration for which the water stop state of the water discharger 2 has continued (step S10). Next, the control device 7 determines whether the measured elapsed time has exceeded the adjustment required time A1 (step S11). If the control device 7 determines that the elapsed time has not exceeded the adjustment required time A1 (step S11, No), it skips the subsequent process.

[0111] On the other hand, if the control device 7 determines that the elapsed time has exceeded the adjustment-requiring time A1 (step S11, Yes), it determines whether the measured water-stop duration has exceeded the non-adjustable time A2 (step S12). If the control device 7 determines that the water-stop duration has not exceeded the non-adjustable time A2 (step S12, No), it skips the subsequent processing.

[0112] When the control device 7 determines that the water stop duration has exceeded the non-adjustable time A2 (step S12, Yes), it determines that the condition for executing the origin reset process is met, and executes the processes from step S13 onwards.

[0113] The control device 7 stores the current settings for the flow regulation valve 230 and the temperature regulation valve 210 (step S13). For example, the control device 7 stores setting information indicating the current drive position of the flow regulation valve 230 and setting information indicating the current drive position of the temperature regulation valve 210. Such setting information includes information such as the drive amount of the motor 61 for moving the flow regulation valve 230 to its current drive position and the drive amount of the motor 51 for moving the temperature regulation valve 210 to its current drive position. As will be described later, this setting information is used during post-origin reset processing, which returns the flow regulation valve 230 and the temperature regulation valve 210 to their states before the origin reset processing.

[0114] Next, the control device 7 executes an origin setting process. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the origin setting process.

[0115] 12, the control device 7 determines whether the signal output from the Hall IC 252 is "Low" (step S100). That is, step S100 is a process of determining whether the second gear 242 (flow regulation valve 230) is in a drive position where the flow regulation valve 230 is at the maximum opening.

[0116] When the control device 7 determines that the signal output from the Hall IC 252 is not "Low" (No in step S100), it rotates the motor 61 toward the origin (step S101). As a result, the second gear 242 and the flow regulation valve 230 rotate in a direction that opens the flow regulation valve 230. Then, the control device 7 returns to the processing of step S100. That is, the control device 7 rotates the motor 61 toward the origin until the signal output from the Hall IC 252 becomes "Low."

[0117] When the control device 7 determines that the signal output from the Hall IC 252 is "Low" (Yes in step S100), it stops driving the motor 61 (step S102). Note that if the motor 61 is not driving, the control device 7 does not perform the process of step S102.

[0118] Next, the control device 7 slightly drives the motor 61 in the direction opposite to the origin (step S103). The processing of step S103 will be described with reference to FIG. 8. As shown in FIG. 8, when the signal output from the Hall IC 252 is "Low," that is, when the second gear 242 is in the drive position where the flow regulation valve 230 is at its maximum opening, the tooth 241a of the first gear 241 is positioned between the tooth 242x of the second gear 242 and the tooth 242y that is located in the valve closing direction of the flow regulation valve 230 relative to the tooth 242x. There is backlash (gap; play) between the tooth 241a of the first gear 241 and the tooth 242x and tooth 242y of the second gear 242. The processing in step S103 is processing for moving tooth 241a of first gear 241 from the position indicated by the dashed line to the position indicated by the solid line, and bringing tooth 241a into contact with tooth 242y of second gear 242 that is in the valve closing direction of flow regulation valve 230; in other words, processing for absorbing backlash. In this way, by bringing tooth 241a of first gear 241 into contact with tooth 242y of second gear 242, when first gear 241 is rotated in the direction opposite to the origin from a state in which motor 61 is in the origin position, the rotation of first gear 241 can be immediately transmitted to second gear 242, and the responsiveness from motor 61 to flow regulation valve 230 can be improved.

[0119] 12, in step S103, the control device 7 outputs a pulse signal of a preset number of infinitesimal steps to the motor 61 to drive the motor 61. The number of infinitesimal steps is set to be smaller than or approximately equal to the number of steps by which the meshing teeth of the second gear 242 and the first gear 241 are changed.

[0120] Next, the control device 7 determines whether the signal output from the Hall IC 252 has become "High" (step S104). If the control device 7 determines that the signal output from the Hall IC 252 is not "High" (step S104, No), that is, if the signal output from the Hall IC 252 is "Low", the control device 7 returns to step S103 and repeats the above process. The control device 7 repeats the minute driving until the signal output from the Hall IC 252 becomes "High".

[0121] When the control device 7 determines that the signal output from the Hall IC 252 has become "High" (Yes in step S104), it stops driving the motor 61 (step S105). Then, the control device 7 sets the origin position of the motor 61 (step S106). For example, the control device 7 sets the position of the motor 61 immediately before the signal output from the Hall IC 252 switches to "High" as the origin position. This allows the control device 7 to set the position of the motor 61 where the flow adjustment valve 230 is at its maximum opening as the origin position.

[0122] In the above example, the control device 7 sets the position of the motor 61 immediately before the signal output from the Hall IC 252 switches to "High" as the origin position, but this is not limited to this, and the control device 7 may set the position of the motor 61 when the signal output from the Hall IC 252 switches to "High" as the origin position.

[0123] Returning to the explanation of FIG. 11 , upon completion of the origin reset process in step S14, the control device 7 executes a post-origin reset process (step S15). Specifically, after executing the origin reset process, the control device 7 controls the driving of the motor 61 and the motor 51 so that the drive positions of the flow adjustment valve 230 and the temperature adjustment valve 210 return to the drive positions before executing the origin reset process. More specifically, the control device 7 reads out the setting information for the flow adjustment valve 230 and the temperature adjustment valve 210 stored in step S13 from the storage unit, and controls the driving of the motor 61 and the motor 51 so that the flow adjustment valve 230 and the temperature adjustment valve 210 return to the states before the origin reset process. That is, after driving the motor 61 and the motor 51 to the origin position in the origin reset process, the control device 7 controls the driving of the motor 61 and the motor 51 so that the drive positions of the flow adjustment valve 230 and the temperature adjustment valve 210 return to the drive positions before driving them to the origin position.

[0124] Furthermore, when an adjustment operation is received on the remote controller 4 (operation unit) during the execution of the origin reset process in step S14, the control device 7 continues the origin reset process. In other words, when an adjustment operation is received during the execution of the origin reset process, the control device 7 continues the origin reset process without controlling the flow regulation valve 230 or the temperature regulation valve 210 in accordance with the adjustment operation.

[0125] In addition, if the control device 7 receives an adjustment operation while the origin setting process is being executed, it may notify the user via the notification unit 4a by displaying or audibly stating that "the faucet device 1 is being adjusted (the origin setting process is being executed) and therefore control according to the adjustment operation cannot be performed."

[0126] As described above, the control device 7 according to the embodiment includes the flow regulation valve 230, the control device 7, an operation unit (remote control 4), and discharge / stop valves (first solenoid valve 31 to fourth solenoid valve 34). The flow regulation valve 230 adjusts the flow rate of hot and cold water discharged from the water discharge unit 2. The actuator (motor 61) drives the flow regulation valve 230. The control device 7 controls the drive position of the flow regulation valve 230 by controlling the drive of the actuator. The operation unit accepts an adjustment operation of the hot and cold water flow rate by the user and sends an operation signal corresponding to the adjustment operation to the control device 7. The discharge / stop valve stops the discharge of hot and cold water from the water discharge unit 2. The flow regulation valve 230 is configured to be operable from a minimum opening degree at which the flow rate of hot and cold water is minimum to a maximum opening degree at which the flow rate of hot and cold water is maximum. The control device 7 sets the position of the actuator at which the flow regulation valve 230 is maximum opened as an origin position, and controls the drive of the actuator.

[0127] Thus, the faucet device 1 includes a flow regulation valve 230 that adjusts the flow rate of hot and cold water discharged from the water discharge portion 2, as well as a discharge / stop valve that stops the discharge of hot and cold water from the water discharge portion 2. The control device 7 also sets the actuator position at which the flow regulation valve 230 is at its maximum opening as the origin position. By keeping the discharge / stop valve in a stopped state when the origin position is set, hot and cold water will not be discharged from the water discharge portion 2 even if the flow regulation valve 230 is driven to its maximum opening position. Furthermore, when water discharge begins after the origin position is set, the flow regulation valve 230 is driven from its maximum opening position to a position corresponding to the flow rate desired by the user (e.g., a relatively large flow rate). This allows hot and cold water to be discharged at the desired flow rate quickly. This shortens the time required to adjust the water discharge rate after setting the origin position, thereby improving the usability of the faucet device 1.

[0128] Furthermore, the flow regulation valve 230 is set so that the flow rate of hot and cold water is greater than zero when the valve is at its minimum opening.

[0129] In other words, the flow regulation valve 230 is set so that it does not enter a water stop state even at the minimum opening. This reduces the load on the flow regulation valve 230. That is, for example, when the flow rate of hot and cold water is zero at the minimum opening and the flow is stopped, a relatively large water pressure acts as a load on the flow regulation valve 230. If the load acting on the flow regulation valve 230 increases, the driving force of the actuator that drives the flow regulation valve 230 also increases accordingly. Therefore, the flow regulation valve 230 is set so that the flow rate of hot and cold water is greater than zero at the minimum opening, so the load on the flow regulation valve 230 can be reduced compared to when the flow is stopped. By reducing the load on the flow regulation valve 230, the driving force of the actuator that drives the flow regulation valve 230 can also be reduced.

[0130] The water discharge / stop valve is an electromagnetic valve, and the control device 7 controls the discharge / stop of hot and cold water from the water discharger 2 by controlling the electromagnetic valve.

[0131] This makes it possible to control the discharge / stop valve and flow regulation valve 230 with a single control device 7, allowing for a compact configuration of the faucet device 1. Furthermore, by using a solenoid valve as the discharge / stop valve, the discharge / stop of hot and cold water from the water discharge section 2 can be controlled with good responsiveness, and therefore hot and cold water with the flow rate adjusted by the flow regulation valve 230 can be discharged instantaneously.

[0132] Furthermore, after driving the actuator to the home position, the control device 7 controls the driving of the actuator so that the drive position of the flow regulation valve 230 is the drive position before driving it to the home position.

[0133] In this way, the drive position of the flow regulation valve 230 is returned to the drive position before it was driven to the origin position, so that the user who uses the faucet device 1 after setting the origin position does not feel uncomfortable.

[0134] As described above, the faucet device 1 according to one aspect of the embodiment includes adjustment valves (flow adjustment valve 230, temperature adjustment valve 210), motors 51, 61, a control device 7, and an operation unit (remote control 4). The adjustment valves adjust the hot or cold water discharged from the water discharge unit 2. The motors 51, 61 drive the adjustment valves. The control device 7 controls the drive position of the adjustment valves by controlling the drive of the motors 51, 61. The operation unit accepts the hot or cold water adjustment operation performed by the user and sends an operation signal corresponding to the adjustment operation to the control device 7. Furthermore, when the water discharge unit 2 changes from a water discharge state to a water stop state and this water stop state continues for a certain period of time, the control device 7 executes an origin return process that drives the motors 51, 61 to the origin position.

[0135] In this way, the origin reset process is executed when the water stop state continues for a certain period of time, so the origin reset process can be executed at a timing that is estimated to be less likely to cause discomfort to the user when the user has finished using the faucet device 1. In other words, the origin reset process can be executed periodically at an appropriate timing that is less likely to cause discomfort to the user.

[0136] In addition, the control device 7 executes the origin reset process when a predetermined time has elapsed since the previous execution of the origin reset process and the water discharger 2 changes from a water discharge state to a water stop state and the water stop state continues for a certain period of time.

[0137] This reduces the power consumption associated with the origin return process. Specifically, the origin return process consumes power because it involves driving the regulating valves using motors 51 and 61. Therefore, if the origin return process is performed frequently, the power consumption increases accordingly. Therefore, the origin return process is performed when a predetermined time has passed since the previous execution of the origin return process and the water has been stopped for a certain period of time. This makes it possible to prevent the origin return process from being performed frequently, thereby reducing the power consumption associated with the origin return process.

[0138] Furthermore, after executing the origin reset process, the control device 7 controls the driving of the motors 51 and 61 so that the drive positions of the regulating valves are the drive positions before executing the origin reset process.

[0139] In this way, the driving position of the adjusting valve is returned to the driving position before the origin setting process was performed, so that the user who uses the faucet device 1 after the origin setting process is performed does not feel uncomfortable.

[0140] Furthermore, when an adjustment operation is received from the operation unit during the execution of the origin reset process, the control device 7 continues the origin reset process.

[0141] In other words, if the control device 7 receives an adjustment operation while executing the origin reset process, it continues the origin reset process without controlling the adjustment valve in accordance with the adjustment operation. This allows the origin reset process to be performed with high accuracy. Specifically, if the control device 7 controls the adjustment valve in accordance with the adjustment operation while executing the origin reset process, the adjustment valve will be driven, which could affect the accuracy of the origin reset process. Therefore, the control device 7 continues the origin reset process without controlling the adjustment valve, so the accuracy of the origin reset process does not decrease, and the origin reset process can be performed with high accuracy.

[0142] <Additional Notes> (1) a flow regulation valve for adjusting the flow rate of hot and cold water discharged from the water discharge portion; an actuator that drives the flow regulation valve; a control device that controls the drive position of the flow regulation valve by controlling the drive of the actuator; An operation unit that receives an adjustment operation of the hot and cold water flow rate by a user and transmits an operation signal corresponding to the adjustment operation to the control device; a water discharge / stop valve that stops the discharge of hot and cold water from the water discharge portion; Equipped with The flow regulation valve is The valve is configured to be operable from a minimum opening at which the flow rate of hot and cold water is minimum to a maximum opening at which the flow rate of hot and cold water is maximum, The control device a position of the actuator where the flow regulation valve has the maximum opening degree is set as an origin position, and driving of the actuator is controlled. Faucet device. (2) The flow regulation valve is The flow rate of hot and cold water at the minimum opening is set to a value greater than 0. (1) The faucet device described above. (3) The water discharge / stop valve is an electromagnetic valve, The control device By controlling the solenoid valve, the discharge of hot and cold water from the water discharge portion is controlled. A faucet device according to (1) or (2). (4) The control device After driving the actuator to the origin position, controlling the driving of the actuator so that the drive position of the flow regulation valve is the drive position before driving the actuator to the origin position. A water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (3).

[0143] Further advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0144] 1. Faucet equipment 2. Water outlet 4 Remote Control 51,61 Motor 210 Temperature control valve 230 Flow control valve

Claims

1. a flow regulation valve for adjusting the flow rate of hot and cold water discharged from the water discharge portion; an actuator that drives the flow regulation valve; a control device that controls the drive position of the flow regulation valve by controlling the drive of the actuator; An operation unit that receives an adjustment operation of the hot and cold water flow rate by a user and transmits an operation signal corresponding to the adjustment operation to the control device; a water discharge / stop valve that stops the discharge of hot and cold water from the water discharge portion; Equipped with The flow regulation valve is The valve is configured to be operable from a minimum opening at which the flow rate of hot and cold water is minimum to a maximum opening at which the flow rate of hot and cold water is maximum, The control device a position of the actuator where the flow regulation valve has the maximum opening degree is set as an origin position, and driving of the actuator is controlled. Faucet device.

2. The flow regulation valve is The flow rate of hot and cold water at the minimum opening is set to a value greater than 0. The water faucet device according to claim 1.

3. The water discharge / stop valve is an electromagnetic valve, The control device By controlling the solenoid valve, the discharge of hot and cold water from the water discharge portion is controlled. The water faucet device according to claim 1.

4. The control device After driving the actuator to the origin position, controlling the driving of the actuator so that the drive position of the flow regulation valve is the drive position before driving the actuator to the origin position. The water faucet device according to claim 1.

Images