Faucet device

Abstract

To inhibit unpleasantness from being given to users by the driving sound of an actuator for controlling a valve element.SOLUTION: A faucet device in the embodiment includes a water discharge part, a hot water and water mixture part, the actuator, a control device, and an operation part, the hot water and water mixture part having a body casing, a temperature sensing energization part, and a valve element. The control device regulates the position in the axial direction of the valve element with an actuator driven to a predetermined position corresponding to a set temperature or by a predetermined drive amount when receiving information of the set temperature.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, a water faucet device is known that performs feedback control to adjust the temperature of discharged water (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-113579 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In conventional technology, when temperature regulation is performed using feedback control, the actuator may be driven to control the valve even when the set temperature for water discharge is constant, which can cause discomfort to the user due to the driving noise of the actuator.

[0005] One aspect of the embodiment has been made in consideration of the above, and aims to provide a faucet device that can suppress discomfort to users caused by the driving noise of the actuator for controlling the valve body. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A faucet device according to one aspect of the embodiment comprises a water discharge section that discharges water into the bathroom, a hot and cold water mixing section that mixes the hot and cold water supplied to the water discharge section, an actuator that operates the hot and cold water mixing section, a control device that controls the operation of the actuator, and an operating section that sends set temperature information to the control device in response to operation by the user.The hot and cold water mixing section comprises a main casing in which a water inlet, a hot water inlet, and a mixed hot and cold water outlet are formed, a temperature-sensitive biasing section whose biasing force changes according to the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water and which can adjust the opening of the hot water inlet and the water inlet, and a valve body that is slidably incorporated in the axial direction within the main casing and can adjust the opening of the hot water inlet and the water inlet.When the control device receives the set temperature information, it adjusts the axial position of the valve body by driving the actuator to a predetermined position or by a predetermined drive amount corresponding to the set temperature.

[0007] Because the faucet device uses a temperature-sensing actuator to adjust the temperature, the actuator for controlling the valve element is not activated except when changing the set temperature. Therefore, the faucet device can prevent the actuator's driving noise from causing discomfort to the user. Furthermore, even if the temperature-sensing actuator performs spontaneous temperature adjustment, feedback control based on the results of that temperature adjustment may hinder the spontaneous temperature adjustment and result in an unstable discharged water temperature. The temperature control of the present invention allows the temperature-sensing actuator to fully utilize its spontaneous temperature adjustment capabilities.

[0008] Furthermore, after the set temperature is changed, the control device fixes the opening of the valve body until the next change in the set temperature is made.

[0009] The water faucet device can further reduce the discomfort caused by the actuator's driving noise after the set temperature is changed until the next command to change the setting is received.

[0010] Furthermore, after the set temperature is changed, the control device does not drive the actuator to change the opening of the valve element until the set temperature is next changed.

[0011] The water faucet device can further reduce discomfort caused by the driving noise (operating noise) of the actuator after the set temperature is changed until the next command to change the setting is received.

[0012] The actuator is a motor, and the control device de-energizes the motor after driving the motor to the predetermined position or by the predetermined driving amount.

[0013] The water faucet device stops the power supply to the motor after it has been driven, thereby preventing an increase in power consumption and heat generation by the motor.

[0014] The motor is a stepping motor, and the stepping motor and the valve body are fixed in an aligned state.

[0015] Because the stepping motor and valve body are pre-aligned, the faucet device can accurately dispense water at the desired set temperature without feedback control, improving the user experience.

[0016] It also has a temperature sensor that detects water temperature, and the water discharge section has a first water discharge section and a second water discharge section that is located at a lower position than the first water discharge section, and the control device controls the water to be discharged from the second water discharge section when the water temperature detected by the temperature sensor during water discharge is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature.

[0017] When the temperature sensor detects a high temperature, the user can easily determine whether the faucet device is malfunctioning or whether the temperature is temporarily unstable, compared to when the water supply is stopped. Furthermore, because the faucet device discharges water from the second water discharge section, which is located lower than the first water discharge section, the user can be prevented from being showered with a large amount of hot water from the water discharge section when the temperature sensor detects a high temperature.

[0018] It also has a temperature sensor that detects the water temperature, and when the water temperature detected by the temperature sensor during water discharge is above a predetermined temperature, the control device operates the actuator so that the valve body moves in a direction that reduces the opening of the hot water inlet.

[0019] When the temperature sensor detects a high temperature, the user can easily check whether the faucet device is malfunctioning or whether the temperature is temporarily unstable, compared to when the water is stopped. Also, because the faucet device discharges water from the second water discharge section, which is located lower than the first water discharge section, the user can be prevented from being showered with a large amount of hot water from the water discharge section when the temperature sensor detects a high temperature.

[0020] Furthermore, when the operation unit is continuously operated so as to increase the set temperature within a predetermined time, the operation unit restricts the set temperature from being changed above the predetermined temperature.

[0021] When a user changes the set temperature, the operating unit does not send a signal to the control device indicating that the set temperature has been continuously increased within a specified time, preventing the set temperature from rising to an unintended temperature. This improves the safety of the faucet device.

[0022] In addition, the control device is capable of executing a calibration mode in which the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined drive amount is adjusted according to at least one of the installation environment and product variations, the actuator is a motor, and the calibration mode is executed by the control device by driving the motor while discharging water from the water discharge section, and during the calibration mode, the control device drives the motor and then de-energizes the motor.

[0023] The water faucet device stops powering the motor after it has been driven, thereby preventing an increase in power consumption and heat generation by the motor in the calibration mode. [Effects of the Invention]

[0024] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to suppress the driving noise of the actuator for controlling the valve body from causing discomfort to the user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0025] [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 cross-sectional perspective view taken along line VI-VI shown in FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a side view of the spindle. [Figure 8] 8 is a view of the inside of the temperature adjustment side motor unit as seen in the direction of the arrow VIII shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the temperature adjustment control. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the initial processing and the hot water supply temperature determination processing in the calibration mode. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the normal optimization process in the calibration mode. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the temperature control table allocation process in the calibration mode. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of calculation of allocation coefficients. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram of calculation of allocation coefficients. [Figure 15]FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram of calculation of allocation coefficients. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026] A faucet device 1 according to the embodiment is provided, for example, in a bathroom unit 10 as shown in Figure 1. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a bathroom unit 10 in which a faucet device 1 according to the embodiment is provided.

[0027] In a Cartesian coordinate system, the positive direction of the X-axis is defined as "left" and the negative direction of the X-axis is defined as "right." In addition, the Cartesian coordinate system defines the positive direction of the Y-axis as "backward" and the negative direction of the Y-axis as "forward." In addition, the Cartesian coordinate system defines the positive direction of the Z-axis as "upward" and the negative direction of the Z-axis as "downward." For this reason, in the following description, the X-axis direction may be referred to as the left-right direction, the Y-axis direction as the front-back direction, and the Z-axis direction as the up-down direction.

[0028] Bathroom unit 10 includes bathtub 11, first counter 12, second counter 13, and faucet device 1. In the following, when there is no need to distinguish between water discharged by faucet device 1, hot water, and mixed hot and cold water discharged by faucet device 1, they will be referred to as "hot and cold water."

[0029] The first counter 12 is attached to the wall portion 14a of the bathroom unit 10. The first counter 12 protrudes from the wall portion 14a into the bathroom. The first counter 12 is provided above the washing area floor 15 of the bathroom unit 10. The first counter 12 houses the faucet body 3 of the faucet device 1. A hot water waiting outlet 25a is provided at the lower end of the first counter 12. The hot water waiting outlet 25a is provided on the first counter 12 so that the hot water is discharged downward.

[0030] The second counter 13 is attached to the wall portion 14a. The second counter 13 protrudes from the wall portion 14a into the bathroom. The second counter 13 is provided higher than the first counter 12. For example, the second counter 13 is provided so as to extend above the bathtub 11. However, the second counter 13 does not have to extend above the bathtub 11.

[0031] The second counter 13 houses a portion of the faucet device 1. Specifically, the second counter 13 houses a portion of the faucet 21 of the faucet device 1 and a portion of the hand shower 22 of the faucet device 1. The second counter 13 is provided with the spout 21a of the faucet 21 exposed. The spout 21a of the faucet 21 is provided on the second counter 13 so that the direction of hot and cold water spouting is downward.

[0032] In addition, a shower hose 22a of a hand shower 22 of the faucet device 1 is connected to the second counter 13. The shower hose 22a is connected to a shower water conduit housed in the second counter 13.

[0033] An overhead shower 23 of the faucet device 1 and a warm pillar 24 of the faucet device 1 are attached to the ceiling 16 of the bathroom unit 10. The overhead shower 23 and the warm pillar 24 are provided integrally.

[0034] The overhead shower 23 sprays hot water over a wider area of ​​the user than the hand shower 22. For example, the overhead shower 23 is configured so that hot water hits the entire body of the user. The warm pillar 24 collects hot water into a single stream and sprays it straight. In other words, the warm pillar 24 sprays straightened hot water so that it flows down in a continuous column.

[0035] Remote control 4 (operating unit) for faucet device 1 is attached to wall portion 14b of bathroom unit 10. Remote control 4 may be attached to wall portion 14a to which first counter 12 and second counter 13 are attached.

[0036] The remote control 4 accepts various operations by the user on the faucet main body 3. Specifically, the remote control 4 accepts operations to set the hot and cold water temperature (set temperature) in the faucet main body 3. The remote control 4 accepts operations to 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 hot and cold water discharge destination. The remote control 4 has a sound output unit and outputs sound. 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).

[0037] 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.

[0038] The temperature adjustment button 41 is a button for adjusting the temperature of the mixed hot water in the faucet main 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 hot water. The low temperature button 41b is a button for decreasing the temperature of the mixed hot water. The remote control 4 displays the set temperature of the mixed hot 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 according to the operation of each button 41a, 41b.

[0039] The temperature of the mixed hot and cold 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 hot and cold 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 cold water is discharged.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] For example, when hand shower button 43b is "ON," hot and cold water is discharged from hand shower 22. When faucet button 43a is pressed in this state, hand shower button 43b turns "OFF" and faucet button 43a turns "ON." This changes the discharge destination of hot and cold water from hand shower 22 to faucet 21, and hot and cold water is discharged from faucet 21.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] Although the faucet device 1 described here is capable of discharging hot and cold water from the overhead shower 23, warm pillar 24, hand shower 22, and faucet 21, it is not limited to this. For example, the faucet device 1 may be configured without the overhead shower 23 and warm pillar 24.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] The plurality of water dischargers 2 include a faucet 21, a hand shower 22, an overhead shower 23, a warm pillar 24, and a hot water waiting outlet 25a connected to a residual water discharge flow path 25 (see FIG. 1).

[0052] The faucet body 3 includes a mixer faucet unit 50, a water discharge switching section 30, and a control device 7.

[0053] The mixer faucet unit 50 includes a hot and cold water mixing section 80, a flow rate adjustment section 100, and temperature sensors 48 and 49. Hot water is supplied to the hot and cold water mixing section 80 from a hot water supply source 37. In addition, water is supplied to the hot and cold water mixing section 80 from a water supply source 44. The temperature sensor 48 is provided upstream of the hot and cold water mixing section 80 and detects the temperature (water temperature) of the hot water supplied from the hot water supply source 37. The temperature sensor 49 is provided downstream of the hot and cold water mixing section 80 and detects the temperature (water temperature) of the hot water discharged from the hot and cold water mixing section 80. A stop valve 38 is provided in the hot water supply path 39 between the hot and cold water mixing section 80 and the hot water supply source 37. In addition, a stop valve 45 is provided in the water supply path 46 between the hot and cold water mixing section 80 and the water supply source 44.

[0054] The hot and cold water mixing unit 80 mixes hot water supplied from the hot water supply source 37 and cold water supplied from the cold water supply source 44. Specifically, the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 switches whether or not to mix hot water with cold water. The hot and cold water mixing unit 80 also adjusts the ratio of hot water to be mixed with cold water, thereby adjusting the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water.

[0055] The hot and cold water mixing unit 80 includes a motor 62. The motor 62 is, for example, a stepping motor, and the rotational position (drive amount) of the motor 62 is controlled by the number of steps. In response to operation of the temperature adjustment button 41 on the remote control 4, the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 drives the motor 62 to drive a temperature control valve 82 (valve body, see FIG. 6) to switch whether or not to mix hot water with cold water.

[0056] Furthermore, in response to operation of the temperature adjustment button 41 on the remote control 4, the hot water / cold water mixing unit 80 drives the temperature control valve 82 (see FIG. 6) by driving the motor 62, 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 hot water / cold water changes, the hot water / cold water mixing unit 80 can automatically adjust the temperature of the mixed hot water / cold water by adjusting the ratio of the hot water flow rate to the water flow rate according to the temperature of the mixed hot water / cold water.

[0057] Hot and cold water flows into the flow rate adjusting unit 100 from the hot and cold water mixing unit 80. When hot and cold water is discharged from the water discharge unit 2, the flow rate adjusting unit 100 adjusts the flow rate of the discharged hot and cold water.

[0058] The flow rate adjustment unit 100 includes a motor 72. The motor 72 is, for example, a stepping motor, and the rotational position (drive amount) of the motor 72 is controlled by the number of steps. In response to operation of the water volume adjustment button 42 on the remote control 4, the motor 72 is driven to drive a flow regulation valve 102 (see FIG. 6), thereby adjusting the flow rate of hot and cold water.

[0059] The water discharge switching unit 30 switches between discharging and stopping the hot and cold water flowing out of the mixer faucet unit 50. 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 100.

[0060] 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, a fourth solenoid valve 34, and a fifth solenoid valve 35.

[0061] 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.

[0062] When the first solenoid valve 31 to the fourth solenoid valve 34 are "closed," hot or cold water is not discharged from the faucet 21, hand shower 22, overhead shower 23, or warm pillar 24. 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 faucet 21, hand shower 22, overhead shower 23, or warm pillar 24 that corresponds to the solenoid valve that is "open."

[0063] The first solenoid valve 31 switches between discharging hot and cold water at the faucet 21 and stopping the water flow. The second solenoid valve 32 switches between discharging hot and cold water at the hand shower 22 and stopping the water flow. The third solenoid valve 33 switches between discharging hot and cold water at the overhead shower 23 and stopping the water flow. The fourth solenoid valve 34 switches between discharging hot and cold water at the warm pillar 24 and stopping the water flow.

[0064] 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 .

[0065] Fifth solenoid valve 35 is switched between "closed (OFF)" and "open (ON)" in response to switching of the water discharge mode using remote control 4 or operation by external device 6 (for example, a remote control installed in the bathroom). Fifth solenoid valve 35 is a valve for discharging residual water from hoses such as hand shower 22 and from pipes, and is normally kept "closed." In other words, fifth solenoid valve 35 is "open" when residual water treatment is performed. When fifth solenoid valve 35 is "open," residual water is discharged from hot water waiting outlet 25a via residual water discharge flow path 25.

[0066] The control device 7 controls the motors 62, 72 and the first solenoid valve 31 to the fourth solenoid valve 34 in response to the operation of the faucet 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 the remote control 4 or the external device 6, for example.

[0067] 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).

[0068] The communication unit 5 receives operation signals from the remote control 4 and the external device 6, and transmits the received operation signals to the control device 7. The remote control 4 and the external device 6 are connected to the communication unit 5 via wired communication or wireless communication. The control device 7 is connected to the communication unit 5 via wired communication or wireless communication.

[0069] Next, the faucet body 3 will be described with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the faucet body 3. In addition to a mixer faucet unit 50, a water discharge switching unit 30, and a control device 7 (see Figure 3), the faucet body 3 comprises a flow path unit 9. The faucet body 3 is attached to the wall 14a of the bathroom unit 10 (see Figure 1) by the flow path unit 9.

[0070] The flow path unit 9 is formed with a hot water supply path 39 (see Figure 3) that allows hot water supplied from a hot water supply source 37 (see Figure 3) to flow into the mixer tap unit 50, a water supply path 46 (see Figure 3) that allows water supplied from a water supply source 44 (see Figure 3) to flow into the mixer tap unit 50, and flow paths that allow hot and cold water to flow from the mixer tap unit 50 to each water discharge section 2. The flow path unit 9 is also provided with a water discharge switching section 30. The flow path unit 9 is also provided with stop valves 38, 45 (see Figure 3). The flow path unit 9 is also provided with a residual water discharge flow path 25.

[0071] In the faucet body 3, a flow path unit 9 is provided at the rear, and a mixer faucet unit 50 is provided in front of the flow path unit 9. A part of the flow path unit 9 is provided above the mixer faucet unit 50. Also, a control box 7a that houses the control device 7 is provided in front of the mixer faucet unit 50.

[0072] Next, the mixer faucet unit 50 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 5 to 8. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the mixer faucet unit 50. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line VI-VI shown in Figure 5.

[0073] 5 and 6, the mixer faucet unit 50 includes a unit body 51, a temperature adjustment motor section 60, a flow adjustment motor section 70, a hot and cold water mixing section 80, and a flow rate adjustment section 100. The mixer faucet unit 50 has a water outlet 52 provided in the unit body 51, and discharges hot and cold water from the water outlet 52.

[0074] The unit body 51 extends in the left-right direction. The hot and cold water mixer 80 and the flow rate adjuster 100 are inserted in the left-right direction into the unit body 51. That is, the insertion directions of the hot and cold water mixer 80 and the flow rate adjuster 100 coincide with the left-right direction.

[0075] A hot water inlet 53 connected to the hot water supply passage 39 (see FIG. 3) is formed on the left side of the unit body 51. A water inlet 54 connected to the water supply passage 46 (see FIG. 3) is formed in the middle of the unit body 51 in the left-right direction. The unit body 51 has the hot water inlet 53 and the water inlet 54 formed adjacent to each other in the left-right direction.

[0076] The temperature adjustment-side motor section 60 includes a cover 61 and a motor 62, and is provided at the left end of the unit body 51. The cover 61 is provided at the left end of the unit body 51 via a spacer 55. The motor 62 is provided inside the cover 61. The flow adjustment-side motor section 70 includes a cover 71 and a motor 72, and is provided at the right end of the unit body 51. The cover 71 is provided at the right end of the unit body 51 via a spacer 56. The motor 72 is provided inside the cover 71.

[0077] Motor 62 is an actuator that operates hot and cold water mixing section 80. Motor 62 switches whether or not to mix cold and hot water depending on the rotational position (drive amount) of motor 62. Furthermore, when discharging mixed hot and cold water, motor 62 sets the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water depending on the rotational position (drive amount) of motor 62. Motor 72 adjusts the flow rate of hot and cold water depending on the rotational position (drive amount) of motor 72.

[0078] The hot and cold water mixing unit 80 includes a main body casing 81, a temperature control valve 82, a temperature-sensitive spring 83 (temperature-sensitive biasing unit), a bias spring 84, a liner 85, and a spindle 86.

[0079] The main body casing 81 comprises a first main body casing 87 and a second main body casing 88. A hot water inlet 87a, which is a hot water inlet for the internal space of the main body casing 81, and a water inlet 87b, which is a cold water inlet for the same internal space, are formed in the peripheral wall of the first main body casing 87. A mixed hot water outlet 88a is formed in the right end of the second main body casing 88. The hot water inlet 87a, the water inlet 87b, and the mixed hot water outlet 88a are holes that connect the internal space of the main body casing 81 to the outside. The hot water inlet 87a and the water inlet 87b are formed in the middle part of the main body casing 81 in the left-right direction, so that the hot water inlet 87a is located to the left of the water inlet 87b.

[0080] The outer space of the main casing 81 is divided by O-rings 89a, 89b, and 89c, which are sealing members, so that the outer space of the main casing 81 is formed with an annular hot water flow path 89 facing the hot water inlet 87a and an annular water flow path 90 facing the cold water inlet 87b.

[0081] A water discharge flow path 91 is formed in the internal space of the main body casing 81. The water discharge flow path 91 can be communicated with the water discharge port 52 via the mixed hot and cold water outlet 88a and the flow adjustment valve .

[0082] The temperature sensitive spring 83 is housed in the second main body casing 88. The temperature sensitive spring 83 is provided in the water discharge flow path 91. The temperature sensitive spring 83 is a spring whose spring constant changes depending on the temperature, and is made of, for example, a shape memory alloy (SMA). The temperature sensitive spring 83 urges the temperature adjustment valve 82 leftward.

[0083] The bias spring 84 is housed in the first main body casing 87, which is provided to the left of the second main body casing 88. The bias spring 84 is provided in the water discharge flow path 91. The bias spring 84 is a spring whose spring constant is approximately constant with respect to temperature. The bias spring 84 biases the temperature control valve 82 to the right.

[0084] The temperature control valve 82 is provided inside the right side of the first main body casing 87. The temperature control valve 82 is incorporated so as to be slidable in the axial direction (left-right direction) of the first main body casing 87. The temperature control valve 82 moves left-right in response to the biasing force of the bias spring 84 and the biasing force of the temperature-sensing spring 83, and adjusts the state of communication between the hot water annular flow path 89 and the cold water annular flow path 90 and the discharge water flow path 91.

[0085] Specifically, the temperature control valve 82 is held in a position where the biasing force of the bias spring 84 and the biasing force of the temperature sensing spring 83 are balanced. As the temperature control valve 82 moves to the right, the opening of the hot water inlet 87a increases and the opening of the water inlet 87b decreases, so that the amount of hot water supplied to the water discharge flow path 91 increases and the amount of water decreases, and the temperature of the mixed hot water rises. As the temperature control valve 82 moves to the left, the opening of the hot water inlet 87a decreases and the opening of the water inlet 87b increases, so that the amount of hot water supplied into the main casing 81 decreases and the amount of water increases, and the temperature of the mixed hot water drops.

[0086] The liner 85 abuts against the end of the bias spring 84 opposite the temperature control valve 82, and is connected to the motor 62 via a spindle 86. The spindle 86 converts the rotational motion of the motor 62 into linear motion in the left-right direction of the liner 85. Therefore, the liner 85 moves left-right in response to the rotation of the motor 62.

[0087] In the hot and cold water mixing unit 80, the liner 85 moves left and right in accordance with the rotational position of the motor 62, and the position of the left end of the bias spring 84 is changed. Therefore, the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 can change the position of the temperature control valve 82 where the biasing force of the bias spring 84 and the biasing force of the temperature-sensing spring 83 are balanced in accordance with the rotational position of the motor 62. Therefore, when discharging mixed hot and cold water, the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 can set the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water to a temperature that corresponds to the rotational position of the motor 62.

[0088] Furthermore, when discharging mixed hot water, if the temperature of the hot water changes and the temperature of the mixed hot water changes, the temperature-sensitive spring 83 expands and contracts according to the temperature of the mixed hot water, the temperature control valve 82 moves left and right, and the equilibrium position of the temperature control valve 82 is automatically changed. This adjusts the amount of hot water and cold water flowing into the water discharge flow path 91, and the temperature of the mixed hot water is automatically adjusted.

[0089] The flow rate adjusting unit 100 includes a spindle 101 and a flow regulation valve 102. One end of the spindle 101 is connected to the motor 72, and the other end is connected to the flow regulation valve 102.

[0090] The flow regulation valve 102 is provided in the water discharge flow path 91. The flow regulation valve 102 rotates in accordance with the rotation of the motor 72. A communication port 102a is formed in the flow regulation valve 102. The flow regulation valve 102 is provided so as to face the water discharge port 52 of the unit main body 51. The flow regulation valve 102 rotates in accordance with the rotation of the motor 72, thereby changing the communication area between the communication port 102a and the water discharge port 52 and thereby changing the flow rate.

[0091] Specifically, when the motor 72 is in a predetermined water stop position, the communication port 102a does not communicate with the water discharge port 52. Therefore, when the motor 72 is in the predetermined water stop position, hot or cold water is not discharged from the water discharger 2.

[0092] When the motor 72 rotates from the water stop position to the water discharge position, for example, the communication port 102a communicates with the water discharge port 52. As a result, hot and cold water is discharged from the water discharge port 52.

[0093] The flow regulation valve 102 can change the area of ​​communication between the communication port 102a and the water discharge port 52 according to the rotational position of the motor 72. In other words, the flow rate adjustment unit 100 can adjust the flow rate of hot and cold water discharged from the water discharge unit 2 according to the rotational position of the motor 72.

[0094] Note that the control device 7 does not perform fine adjustments through feedback control in the temperature and flow regulation control of the faucet device 1. Furthermore, even when the water flow state transitions from a discharge state to a stopped state, the process of returning the motors 62 and 72 to their origin positions (the control reference position) is not performed each time the water flow is stopped, so it is expected that step-outs and the like will occur, and as these gradually accumulate, the opening positions of the motors 62 and 72 will shift. To prevent this from happening, the control device 7 performs a "return to origin" process, which returns the positions of the motors 62 and 72 to their origin positions, at regular intervals, for example.

[0095] Here, the alignment of the motor 62 and the temperature adjustment valve 82 will be described with reference to Figures 5 to 8. Figure 7 is a side view of the spindle 86. Figure 8 is a view of the inside of the temperature adjustment motor section 60 as seen in the direction of arrow VIII shown in Figure 5.

[0096] The motor 62 has a spline 86a formed on the left end of the spindle 86 shown in Figure 7 and a recess that can be engaged with the tip 86b, which has a shape in which part of the circumferential surface has been flattened (so-called D-cut), and is connected to the spindle 86 at the recess.

[0097] The spacer 55 has a convex portion on the surface that joins with the unit body 51, which fits into a concave portion of the unit body 51, thereby positioning (restricting) the rotational direction around the left-right axis. The cover 61 has a convex portion on the surface that joins with the spacer 55, which fits into a concave portion of the spacer 55, thereby positioning the motor 62 in the rotational direction. As shown in FIG. 8, the motor 62 is attached to the cover 61 with screws 63, which determines its position, thereby positioning the motor 62 in the rotational direction. The spindle 86 and spacer 55 are assembled using an assembly mold (jig), thereby restricting the rotational direction between the spindle 86 and spacer 55.

[0098] In this way, the unit body 51, spacer 55, cover 61, motor 62, and spindle 86 are each positioned in the rotational direction, so that the rotational directions of the motor 62 and spindle 86 are the same. Therefore, in the mixer faucet unit 50, the spindle 86 is connected to the recessed part of the motor 62 up to its tip 86b, and the motor 62 to the temperature control valve 82 are positioned. In this way, the motor 62 and the temperature control valve 82 are fixed in an aligned state.

[0099] Because the motor 62 and temperature control valve 82 are pre-aligned, the faucet device 1 can accurately discharge water at the desired set temperature without feedback control during water discharge. This improves the user experience when using the faucet device 1.

[0100] Next, the temperature adjustment control of the water faucet device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure for temperature adjustment control.

[0101] As shown in FIG. 9, the control device 7 receives a request to change the temperature adjustment setting from the remote control 4 (step S101).

[0102] Next, the control device 7 acquires a temperature control setting value from the remote control 4 (step S102). The temperature control setting value is the value of the set temperature transmitted from the remote control 4.

[0103] Next, the control device 7 acquires a temperature adjustment correction value from the remote control 4 (step S103). The temperature adjustment correction value is a value for correcting the temperature adjustment set value to a higher or lower temperature. The temperature adjustment correction value is set in advance by the remote control 4.

[0104] Next, the control device 7 drives the motor 62 to a predetermined rotation position based on the temperature control opening table (step S104), and ends the process. The temperature control opening table is, for example, data that associates the set temperature with the rotation position of the motor 62. For example, when the temperature control set value is 40°C and the temperature control correction value is +1°C, the control device 7 refers to the table value (rotation position) of 41°C in the temperature control opening table.

[0105] As described above, in the faucet device 1, the hot and cold water mixer 80 includes a main casing 81 in which a water inlet 87b, a hot water inlet 87a, and a mixed hot and cold water outlet 88a are formed, a temperature-sensitive spring 83 whose biasing force changes depending on the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water and which can adjust the opening of the hot water inlet 87a and the cold water inlet 87b, and a temperature control valve 82 that is slidably mounted in the axial direction within the main casing 81 and can adjust the opening of the hot water inlet 87a and the cold water inlet 87b. Upon receiving information about the set temperature, the control device 7 adjusts the axial position of the temperature control valve 82 by driving the motor 62 to a predetermined rotational position or by a predetermined drive amount that corresponds to the set temperature.

[0106] Because the faucet device 1 uses the temperature-sensitive spring 83 to adjust temperature, the motor 62 that controls the temperature control valve 82 is not driven except when the set temperature is changed. Therefore, the faucet device 1 can prevent the driving noise of the motor 62 from causing discomfort to the user. Furthermore, even if the temperature is adjusted automatically by the temperature-sensitive spring 83, if feedback control is performed based on the results of that temperature adjustment, the automatic temperature adjustment may be hindered, and the discharged water temperature may not be stable. The temperature adjustment control of the present invention allows the temperature-sensitive spring 83 to fully utilize its automatic temperature adjustment performance.

[0107] Furthermore, with the temperature regulation control of the present invention, the faucet device 1 does not need to constantly check the current output, as is the case with feedback control. Also, because the faucet device 1 does not loop processing, it can be implemented with simple processing.

[0108] Furthermore, after driving the motor 62 in step S104, the control device 7 stops the power supply to the motor 62 and de-energizes the motor 62 until it receives a request to change the temperature adjustment setting in step S101 again. As a result, after driving the motor 62 in step S104, the opening of the temperature adjustment valve 82 is fixed until it receives a request to change the temperature adjustment setting in step S101 again.

[0109] By controlling in this way, the faucet device 1 can further reduce the discomfort caused by the driving noise of the motor 62 after the set temperature is changed until the next command to change the setting is received. The faucet device 1 can also reduce increases in power consumption and heat generation by the motor 62.

[0110] Alternatively, after the set temperature is changed, the control device 7 does not drive (excite) the motor 62 to change the opening of the temperature control valve 82 until the next change in the set temperature. As a result, after the motor 62 is driven in step S104, the opening of the temperature control valve 82 is fixed until the next request to change the temperature control setting is received in step S101.

[0111] By performing control in this manner, the faucet device 1 can further reduce discomfort caused by the driving noise (operating noise) of the motor 62 after the set temperature is changed until the next command to change the setting is received.

[0112] Additionally, the upper limit of the temperature range for the set temperature (for example, 45°C) is set in remote control 4. Here, when temperature sensor 49 detects a first predetermined temperature (for example, 55°C) or higher for a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds), control device 7 switches water discharge to water discharge section 2 (second water discharge section) located lower than the water discharge section 2 (first water discharge section) currently discharging water. The second water discharge section is not particularly limited as long as it is located lower than the first water discharge section, but hot water waiting outlet 25a, which is located in the lowest position, is preferred.

[0113] Furthermore, the control device 7 may perform a fault diagnosis of the faucet device 1 after switching water discharge to the second water discharge portion. Specifically, the control device 7 drives the motor 62 to bring the temperature into the normal temperature range (or low temperature range) and checks whether the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 49 has been alleviated. For example, if the temperature sensor 49 detects a temperature equal to or lower than a second predetermined temperature (e.g., 42°C), the control device 7 resets the motor 62 to its original position and returns to normal control. If the temperature sensor 49 continues to detect a temperature higher than the second predetermined temperature, the control device 7 stops water discharge from the second water discharge portion and displays an error message on the remote control 4 indicating that a high temperature has been detected.

[0114] Alternatively, when the temperature sensor 49 detects a temperature equal to or higher than the first predetermined temperature for a predetermined time, the control device 7 may operate the motor 62 so that the temperature control valve 82 moves in the direction that decreases the opening of the hot water inlet 87a. This allows the control device 7 to lower the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water discharger 2.

[0115] By controlling in this manner, when temperature sensor 48 detects a high temperature, the user can easily check whether faucet device 1 is malfunctioning or whether the temperature is temporarily unstable, compared to when the water supply is stopped. Furthermore, because faucet device 1 discharges water from second water discharge section, which is located lower than first water discharge section, the user can be prevented from being showered with a large amount of hot water from water discharge section 2 when temperature sensor 48 detects a high temperature.

[0116] Furthermore, when a continuous operation is performed within a predetermined time period to increase the set temperature, the remote control 4 restricts the set temperature from being changed to a third predetermined temperature or higher (for example, 42°C). For example, a continuous operation is an operation of repeatedly pressing a button or an operation of holding down a button (long press operation).

[0117] For example, if the user repeatedly presses the high temperature button 41a within a predetermined time, the remote control 4 invalidates the operation (for example, an operation to raise the temperature from 42°C to 43°C) only once the set temperature has been changed to the third predetermined temperature. After that, if the user presses the high temperature button 41a, the operation is validated.

[0118] For example, if the user continues to press the high temperature button 41a within a predetermined time, the remote control 4 will invalidate the operation (for example, an operation to increase the set temperature from 42°C to 43°C) once the set temperature has been changed to the third predetermined temperature. If the user stops continuing to press the high temperature button 41a and then resumes pressing the high temperature button 41a, the remote control 4 will allow the set temperature to be changed to a temperature higher than the third predetermined temperature. Note that when the remote control 4 has invalidated the operation to increase the set temperature, it may output a sound to notify the user of this.

[0119] By performing the above control, when the user changes the set temperature, the faucet device 1 prevents the signal for consecutive setting changes made within a specified time from the remote control 4 from being sent to the control device 7, preventing the set temperature from rising to an unintended temperature. This improves the safety of the faucet device 1.

[0120] The control device 7 can also execute a calibration mode. The calibration mode adjusts the setting of a predetermined rotation position or a predetermined drive amount in accordance with at least one of the environment in which the faucet device 1 is installed and product variations. In the calibration mode, for example, multiple target temperatures are set in the control device 7, and the control device 7 performs a process to adjust the discharged water temperature to the target temperature for each target temperature. In this process, the control device 7 drives the motor 62 so that the discharged water temperature becomes the target temperature while discharging water from the water discharge section 2 (for example, hot water waiting outlet 25a), and searches for the rotation position or drive amount of the motor 62 for each target temperature. The control device 7 can adjust the setting of the predetermined rotation position or drive amount based on the searched rotation position or drive amount of the motor 62.

[0121] In the calibration mode, after driving the motor 62, the control device 7 stops the power supply to the motor 62 and releases the excitation until the next time the motor 62 is driven. This allows the faucet device 1 to suppress an increase in power consumption and heat generation by the motor 62 in the calibration mode.

[0122] Next, the calibration mode will be described with reference to Fig. 10 to Fig. 15. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing the processing procedures for the initial processing and hot water supply temperature determination processing in the calibration mode. Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing the processing procedures for the normal optimization processing in the calibration mode. Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing the processing procedures for the temperature control table allocation processing in the calibration mode. Figs. 13 to 15 are explanatory diagrams for calculating allocation coefficients.

[0123] In addition to the above-mentioned "calibration mode," the control device 7 can also execute a "water discharge mode." The "water discharge mode" is a mode in which, upon receiving set temperature information from the remote control 4, the axial position of the temperature control valve 82 is adjusted by driving the motor 62 to a predetermined rotational position or by a predetermined drive amount that corresponds to the set temperature.

[0124] The temperature adjustment control procedure in the "water discharge mode" is the same as the process from step S101 to step S104 described above.

[0125] Next, the "calibration mode" will be described in detail. The "calibration mode" is executed by the user operating the remote control 4. Specifically, when the user simultaneously presses and holds the low temperature button 41b and the high water button 42a on the remote control 4 for three seconds to access a settings screen, the first display unit 45a or the second display unit 45b displays whether or not to execute the "calibration mode." Then, when the user selects "Execute calibration mode" on the remote control 4, the calibration mode is executed. Furthermore, while the calibration mode is being executed, the remote control 4 displays "Calibration mode in progress" on the first display unit 45a or the second display unit 45b. Because the faucet device 1 can perform calibration using the remote control 4 used for normal water dispensing operations, a dedicated setting remote control is not required. The user may be able to temporarily interrupt or cancel the calibration mode by operating the remote control 4 during the calibration mode.

[0126] In the "calibration mode," first, an initial process (steps S201 to S204) and a hot water supply temperature determination process (steps S205 to S209) are performed.

[0127] 10, the control device 7 returns the motors 62 and 72 to their original positions and opens the fifth solenoid valve 35 (step S201). By opening the fifth solenoid valve 35, the water faucet device 1 performs calibration while discharging water from the hot water waiting outlet 25a. The control device 7 can improve the accuracy of the calibration by driving the motor 62 while checking the environment during actual water discharge.

[0128] Next, the control device 7 drives the motor 62 so as to reach a first predetermined temperature (step S202). For example, the first predetermined temperature is set to 42°C.

[0129] Next, the control device 7 determines whether or not a first predetermined time has elapsed since the motor 62 was driven (step S203). For example, the first predetermined time is set to 5 minutes.

[0130] When the control device 7 determines that the first predetermined time has elapsed since the motor 62 was driven (step S203: Yes), the control device 7 ends the calibration process. In this case, the control device 7 ends the process without updating the temperature control opening degree table.

[0131] If the control device 7 determines that the first predetermined time has not elapsed since the motor 62 was driven (step S203: No), it determines whether the hot water temperature detected by the temperature sensor 48 is higher than a second predetermined temperature (step S204). For example, the second predetermined temperature is set to 32°C. The determinations in steps S203 and S204 are intended to determine whether the power of the hot water heater, which is the hot water supply source 37, is turned on.

[0132] When the control device 7 determines that the temperature of the hot water detected by the temperature sensor 48 is equal to or lower than the second predetermined temperature (step S204: No), the process returns to step S203.

[0133] When the control device 7 determines that the hot water temperature detected by the temperature sensor 48 is higher than the second predetermined temperature (step S204: Yes), it determines whether the hot water temperature is stable at or above the third predetermined temperature (step S205). For example, the control device 7 can determine whether the hot water temperature is stable when the hot water temperature detected by the temperature sensor 48 falls within a predetermined range for a certain period of time.

[0134] If the control device 7 determines that the hot water temperature has stabilized at or above the third predetermined temperature (step S205: Yes), it performs an origin reset for the motor 62 (step S206) and proceeds to the normal optimization process shown in FIG. 11. In this way, the control device 7 starts adjusting the rotational position setting of the motor 62 after the hot water temperature has stabilized. The faucet device 1 can suppress the heat absorption of cooled castings when the flow path unit 9 (see FIG. 4) is configured including castings, and the influence of the start-up of the hot water heater, thereby accurately controlling the temperature during calibration. This allows the control device 7 to improve the accuracy of calibration.

[0135] If the control device 7 determines that the hot water temperature is not stable above the third predetermined temperature (step S205: No), it determines that the hot water temperature is below the appropriate temperature and assigns a fixed table to the temperature control opening table (step S207). The fixed table is preset based on evaluation data under predetermined conditions (e.g., a water temperature of 15°C in the water supply line 46, a hot water temperature of 40°C in the hot water supply line 39, both at a pressure of 0.2 MPa). In this way, when the hot water temperature is lower than the third predetermined temperature, the control device 7 controls using a dedicated table. This allows the faucet device 1 to confirm whether the hot water temperature is appropriate and to notify the user whether the oil supply temperature is appropriate depending on the situation by displaying this on the remote control 4. The faucet device 1 can prevent lukewarm water from being discharged when the hot water temperature is lower than the third predetermined temperature. This allows the faucet device 1 to prevent a decrease in usability for the user.

[0136] Next, the control device 7 performs origin search for the motor 62 (step S208).

[0137] Next, the control device 7 drives the motors 62 and 72 to their default positions (step S209), and ends the calibration process. For example, the default position of the motor 62 is the rotational position of the motor 62 that corresponds to the median set temperature (e.g., 40°C). The default position of the motor 72 is the rotational position of the motor 72 that corresponds to the median flow rate.

[0138] Next, the procedure for the normal optimization process in the "calibration mode" will be described.

[0139] As shown in Fig. 11, the control device 7 performs PID control at the first target temperature (step S210). Specifically, the control device 7 uses PID control to calculate the rotational position of the motor 62 that sets the first target temperature as the target temperature, and drives the motor 62 at the calculated rotational position. For example, the first target temperature is set to 35°C. Note that, although PID control is employed as the control for adjusting the discharged water temperature to the target temperature, this is not particularly limited, and various control methods may be used to adjust the discharged water temperature to the target temperature.

[0140] Next, the control device 7 determines whether or not the PID control has continued for a third predetermined time period since the start of the PID control in step S210 (step S211). For example, the third predetermined time period is set to 60 seconds.

[0141] If the control device 7 determines that the PID control has not continued for the third predetermined time since it started in step S210 (step S211: No), it determines whether the deviation e in the PID control is equal to or lower than the fourth predetermined temperature and whether this state (hereinafter simply referred to as the "state below the fourth predetermined temperature") has continued for the fourth predetermined time (step S212).

[0142] When the control device 7 determines that the state where the temperature is equal to or lower than the fourth predetermined temperature has not continued for the fourth predetermined time (step S212: No), the control device 7 returns to step S211.

[0143] Next, if the control device 7 determines that the PID control of the first target temperature has continued for a third predetermined time since the start of PID control of the first target temperature in step S210 (step S211: Yes), or if the control device 7 determines that the temperature has remained at or below the fourth predetermined temperature for a fourth predetermined time (step S212: Yes), it records data based on the search results (step S213). Specifically, the control device 7 records the drive amount (number of steps) of the motor 62 and the temperature of the mixed water (first temperature) detected by the temperature sensor 49 at the timing of step S213 as the temperature change point.

[0144] Next, the control device 7 performs PID control at the second target temperature (step S214). Specifically, the control device 7 uses PID control to calculate the rotation position of the motor 62 to set the second target temperature as the target temperature, and drives the motor 62 at the calculated rotation position. For example, the second target temperature is set to 40°C.

[0145] Next, the control device 7 determines whether or not the PID control has continued for a third predetermined time period since the start of the PID control in step S214 (step S215).

[0146] If the control device 7 determines that the third predetermined time has not elapsed since the start of PID control in step S214 (step S215: No), it determines whether the state where the temperature is equal to or lower than the fourth predetermined temperature has continued for the fourth predetermined time (step S216).

[0147] When the control device 7 determines that the state where the temperature is equal to or lower than the fourth predetermined temperature has not continued for the fourth predetermined time (step S216: No), the control device 7 returns to step S215.

[0148] When the control device 7 determines that the third predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the PID control in step S214 (step S215: Yes), or when the control device 7 determines that the temperature has remained below the fourth predetermined temperature for the fourth predetermined time (step S216: Yes), the control device 7 records data based on the search results (step S217). Specifically, the control device 7 records the drive amount (number of steps) of the motor 62 and the temperature (second temperature) of the mixed water detected by the temperature sensor 49 at the timing of step S217 as the temperature change point.

[0149] Next, the control device 7 performs PID control at the third target temperature (step S218). Specifically, the control device 7 uses PID control to calculate the rotation position of the motor 62 to set the third target temperature as the target temperature, and drives the motor 62 to the calculated rotation position. For example, the third target temperature is set to 45°C.

[0150] Next, the control device 7 determines whether the PID control has continued for a third predetermined time period since the start of the PID control in step S218 (step S219).

[0151] If the control device 7 determines that the PID control has not continued for the third predetermined time since it started in step S218 (step S219: No), it determines whether the rotation position of the motor 62 has reached the upper limit rotation position (step S220).

[0152] If the control device 7 determines that the rotation position of the motor 62 has not reached the upper limit rotation position (step S220: No), it determines whether the state where the temperature is equal to or lower than the fourth predetermined temperature has continued for a fourth predetermined time (step S221).

[0153] When the control device 7 determines that the state where the temperature is equal to or lower than the fourth predetermined temperature has not continued for the fourth predetermined time (step S221: No), the control device 7 returns to step S219.

[0154] If the control device 7 determines that the PID control has continued for a third predetermined time since the start of PID control in step S218 (step S219: Yes), or if the temperature has remained below the fourth predetermined temperature for a fourth predetermined time (step S221: Yes), it records data based on the search results (step S222) and proceeds to the normal optimization process shown in Fig. 12. Specifically, in step S222, the control device 7 records the drive amount (number of steps) of the motor 62 and the temperature of the mixed hot water (third temperature) detected by the temperature sensor 49 at the timing of step S222.

[0155] When it is determined that the upper limit rotation position has been reached (step S220: Yes), the control device 7 waits for a fifth predetermined time (step S223). For example, the fifth predetermined time is set to 30 seconds.

[0156] Next, the control device 7 sets the upper limit rotation position to the rotation position at the third target temperature (step S224).

[0157] Next, the control device 7 records data based on the search results (step S222), and proceeds to the normal optimization process shown in Fig. 12. Specifically, in step S222, the control device 7 records the upper limit rotation position of the motor 62 and the temperature (third temperature) of the mixed hot water detected by the temperature sensor 49 as temperature change points.

[0158] As shown in Figure 13, the temperature change points can be plotted on a graph with the rotational position of motor 62 on the horizontal axis and the temperature of the mixed hot water detected by temperature sensor 49 on the vertical axis, with the temperature change point recorded in step S213 as point A, the temperature change point recorded in step S217 as point B, and the temperature change point recorded in step S222 as point C.

[0159] Next, the procedure for the temperature control table allocation process in the "calibration mode" will be described.

[0160] As shown in Fig. 12, the control device 7 calculates allocation coefficients (step S225). Specifically, the control device 7 calculates the slope and intercept of the linear equation of a line AB connecting point A (s1, t1) and point B (s2, t2) shown in Fig. 14, and also calculates the slope and intercept of the linear equation of a line BC connecting point B (s2, t2) and point C (s3, t3) shown in Fig. 15. The allocation coefficients are the slope and intercept of the linear equation of the line AB and the slope and intercept of the linear equation of the line BC.

[0161] Next, the control device 7 closes the fifth electromagnetic valve 35 (step S226). By closing the fifth electromagnetic valve 35, the control device 7 stops the discharge of water from the hot water standby discharge outlet 25a.

[0162] Next, the control device 7 interpolates the table values ​​(step S227). Specifically, the control device 7 calculates the rotational position of the motor 62 for each set temperature (each temperature that can be set by the remote control 4) based on the allocation coefficient calculated in step S225. For example, the control device 7 calculates the rotational position of the motor 62 based on the linear equation of the line AB for a set temperature that is equal to or lower than the second target temperature. Furthermore, the control device 7 calculates the rotational position of the motor 62 based on the linear equation of the line BC for a set temperature that is higher than the second target temperature.

[0163] Although the rotation position of motor 62 is calculated based on three temperature change points, this is not particularly limited, and three or more temperature change points may be searched for, a linear equation for a line between two temperature change points may be calculated in order of the height of the target temperature, and the rotation position of motor 62 may be calculated for each set temperature in the same way as in the case of three points. By using three or more temperature change points, control device 7 can improve the accuracy of calibration.

[0164] Next, the control device 7 updates all table data (step S228). Specifically, the control device 7 updates all data in the temperature control opening degree table with the rotational position of the motor 62 calculated in step S227.

[0165] Next, the control device 7 performs origin search for the motor 62 (step S229).

[0166] Next, the control device 7 drives the motors 62 and 72 to the default positions (step S230), and ends the process.

[0167] As described above, in the faucet device 1, the control device 7 can execute a calibration mode that adjusts the setting of a predetermined position or a predetermined drive amount according to at least one of the installation environment (water pressure, hot water temperature) and product variations.

[0168] By controlling in this manner, the faucet device 1 can adjust to the hot water temperature, hot water pressure, water temperature, and water pressure from the hot water supply line 39 and the water supply line 46, which vary from site to site, as well as individual differences in temperature adjustment of the SMA thermo valve. As a result, the faucet device 1 can perform highly accurate temperature adjustment according to the set temperature by simply operating the temperature control valve 82 with the motor 62 only when changing the set temperature, and adjusting the temperature with the temperature-sensitive spring 83 while water is being discharged. The faucet device 1 can also make the most of its feature of shortening the time it takes for the temperature to stabilize when there is a temperature change or pressure fluctuation in the cold water or hot water supply while water is being discharged.

[0169] 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.

[0170] <Additional Notes> (1) a water discharge unit that discharges water into the bathroom; A hot and cold water mixing unit that mixes hot and cold water to be supplied to the water discharge unit; an actuator that operates the hot and cold water mixing unit; a control device for controlling the driving of the actuator; an operation unit that transmits information about a set temperature to the control device in response to an operation by a user; A water faucet device comprising: The hot and cold water mixing section a main body casing having a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet, and a mixed hot and cold water outlet; A temperature-sensitive biasing unit whose biasing force changes according to the temperature of the mixed hot water and can adjust the opening degree of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet; a valve body that is slidably incorporated in the main casing in the axial direction and that can adjust the opening degree of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet, The control device When information on the set temperature is received, the faucet device adjusts the axial position of the valve body by driving the actuator to a predetermined position or by a predetermined drive amount corresponding to the set temperature. (2) The water faucet device according to (1), wherein the control device fixes the opening degree of the valve body after the set temperature is changed until the next change in the set temperature. (3) The faucet device described in (1) above, wherein the control device, after the set temperature is changed, does not drive the actuator to change the opening degree of the valve body until the next change in the set temperature is made. (4) the actuator is a motor, The control device de-energizes the motor after driving the motor to the predetermined position or by the predetermined driving amount. (5) the motor is a stepping motor, The water faucet device according to (4), wherein the stepping motor and the valve body are fixed in an aligned state. (6) Equipped with a temperature sensor that detects water temperature, The water discharger has a first water discharger and a second water discharger provided at a lower position than the first water discharger, The control device When the water temperature detected by the temperature sensor during discharge is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature, The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein water is controlled to be discharged from the second water discharger. (7) Equipped with a temperature sensor that detects water temperature, The control device When the water temperature detected by the temperature sensor during discharge is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature, The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the actuator is driven so that the valve element moves in a direction that reduces the opening of the hot water inlet. (8) The operating unit prevents the set temperature from being changed above a predetermined temperature when the operating unit is continuously operated so that the set temperature is higher within a predetermined time. (9) the control device is capable of executing a calibration mode in which the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined drive amount is adjusted in accordance with at least one of an installation environment and product variations; the actuator is a motor, The calibration mode is executed by the control device by driving the motor while discharging water from the water discharger, The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein during the calibration mode, the control device drives the motor and then de-energizes the motor. [Explanation of symbols]

[0171] 1. Faucet equipment 2. Water outlet 4 Remote control (operation unit) 7 Control Device 10 Bathroom unit 21 Faucet (spout) 22 Hand shower (water outlet) 23 Overhead shower (water outlet) 24 Warm pillar (water outlet) 25a Hot water outlet (water outlet) 49 Temperature Sensor 50 Mixing faucet unit 51 Unit body 62 Motor (actuator) 80 Hot water mixing section 81 Main casing 82 Temperature control valve (valve body) 83 Temperature-sensing spring (temperature-sensing biasing part) 87 First main body casing 87a Hot water inlet 87b Water inlet 88 Second main body casing 88a Mixed soup outlet

Claims

1. a water discharge unit that discharges water into the bathroom; A hot and cold water mixing unit that mixes hot and cold water to be supplied to the water discharge unit; an actuator that operates the hot and cold water mixing unit; a control device for controlling the driving of the actuator; an operation unit that transmits information about a set temperature to the control device in response to an operation by a user; A water faucet device comprising: The hot and cold water mixing section a main body casing having a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet, and a mixed hot and cold water outlet; A temperature-sensitive biasing unit whose biasing force changes according to the temperature of the mixed hot water and can adjust the opening degree of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet; a valve body that is slidably incorporated in the main casing in the axial direction and that can adjust the opening degree of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet, The control device When information on the set temperature is received, the faucet device adjusts the axial position of the valve body by driving the actuator to a predetermined position or by a predetermined drive amount corresponding to the set temperature.

2. The water faucet device according to claim 1 , wherein the control device fixes the opening of the valve body after the set temperature is changed until the next change in the set temperature.

3. The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein the control device, after the set temperature is changed, does not drive the actuator to change the opening degree of the valve body until the next change in the set temperature.

4. the actuator is a motor, The water faucet device according to claim 2 , wherein the control device de-energizes the motor after driving the motor to the predetermined position or by the predetermined driving amount.

5. the motor is a stepping motor, The water faucet device according to claim 4, wherein the stepping motor and the valve body are fixed in an aligned state.

6. Equipped with a temperature sensor that detects water temperature, The water discharger has a first water discharger and a second water discharger provided at a lower position than the first water discharger, The control device When the water temperature detected by the temperature sensor during discharge is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature, The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein water is controlled to be discharged from the second water discharge portion.

7. Equipped with a temperature sensor that detects water temperature, The control device When the water temperature detected by the temperature sensor during discharge is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature, The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein the actuator is driven so that the valve element moves in a direction that reduces the opening of the hot water inlet.

8. The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein the operating unit prevents the set temperature from being changed above a predetermined temperature when the operating unit is continuously operated so as to increase the set temperature within a predetermined time period.

9. the control device is capable of executing a calibration mode in which the setting of the predetermined position or the predetermined drive amount is adjusted in accordance with at least one of an installation environment and product variations; the actuator is a motor, The calibration mode is executed by the control device by driving the motor while discharging water from the water discharger, The water faucet device according to claim 1 , wherein, during the calibration mode, the control device drives the motor and then de-energizes the motor.

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