Mist generator

Abstract

To provide a mist generator which can be easily cleaned and has high maintenance property.SOLUTION: There is provided a mist generator (1) for supplying mist to a mist retention space of a water-section appliance. The mist generator comprises: a mist generator body (8); a storage part (10) which is provided in the mist generator body, and stores hot water used for making mist; an ultrasonic transducer (12) for radiating an ultrasonic to the hot water stored in the storage part, for generating mist; a mist discharge part (14) for discharging the mist generated by the ultrasonic transducer to the mist retention space; and a control part (16) for controlling supply of the hot water generated at an external part of the mist generator body to the storage part and stop of supply of the hot water.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a mist generator, and more particularly to a mist generator that supplies mist to a mist retention space in a plumbing fixture. [Background technology]

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2023-50491 (Patent Document 1) describes a mist device and a plumbing device equipped with the same. In this mist device, water to be turned into mist is stored in a water storage section, and this water is heated by a heater disposed in the water storage section to maintain the temperature of the hot water in the water storage section within a predetermined temperature range. Then, ultrasonic waves are irradiated onto the hot water stored in the water storage section by an ultrasonic vibrator, thereby generating mist at an appropriate temperature. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-50491 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the mist device described in Patent Document 1 has a heater for heating water in the water storage section, which makes it difficult to maintain. Specifically, to generate clean mist, the water storage section for storing hot water must be regularly cleaned. However, if a heater is provided in the water storage section, dirt can accumulate behind the heater, or areas that are difficult to clean can be created in the heater's shadow, making cleaning difficult. Furthermore, when cleaning the water storage section using chemicals such as detergents, the chemicals can deteriorate or damage the heater. Furthermore, providing a heater in the mist device poses the problem of the possibility that a user could insert their fingers into the mist device and touch the heater while it is heating while mist is being generated.

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a mist generating device that is easy to clean and maintain. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a mist generating device that supplies mist to a mist retention space in a plumbing device, and is characterized by having a mist generating device main body, a storage section provided within the mist generating device main body that stores hot water to be made into mist, an ultrasonic vibrator that generates mist by irradiating the hot water stored in the storage section with ultrasonic waves, a mist discharge section that discharges the mist generated by the ultrasonic vibrator into the mist retention space, and a control section that controls the supply and stop of hot water generated outside the mist generating device main body to the storage section.

[0007] According to the present invention configured in this manner, hot water generated outside the mist generator body is supplied to the reservoir, eliminating the need to provide a heater within the mist generator body, thereby improving the ease of cleaning the reservoir, etc. Furthermore, because there is no need to provide a heater within the mist generator body, the risk of a user inserting their fingers into the mist generator body and touching the heater while the mist is being generated is reliably eliminated.

[0008] In the present invention, the mist generator body preferably includes an outside air inlet for taking outside air into the mist generator body.

[0009] According to the present invention configured in this manner, the mist generator body is equipped with an outside air inlet for taking in outside air, so when the supply of hot water to the storage section is stopped, the temperature of the hot water in the storage section can be lowered relatively quickly. Therefore, simply by using the control section to control the supply and stop of hot water generated outside the mist generator body to the storage section, the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage section can be maintained within an appropriate range relatively easily.

[0010] In the present invention, the reservoir preferably includes an overflow portion that discharges the hot water in the reservoir when the level of the hot water stored in the reservoir exceeds a predetermined height.

[0011] For example, if the temperature of the hot water supplied to the storage section is relatively low, the temperature of the hot water in the storage section does not rise easily even when hot water is supplied into the storage section, so the amount of hot water to be supplied to the storage section increases. If the amount of hot water supplied increases and the water level in the storage section becomes too high, the amount of mist generated by irradiating ultrasonic waves with the ultrasonic vibrator decreases. According to the present invention configured as described above, an overflow section is provided that discharges the hot water from the storage section when the water level stored in the storage section exceeds a predetermined height, so that the temperature of the hot water in the storage section can be increased while limiting the rise in the water level in the storage section.

[0012] In the present invention, it is preferable that the device further includes a water level detection unit that detects the level of the hot water stored in the storage unit, and when the water level detected by the water level detection unit is between a predetermined lower limit water level and a predetermined upper limit water level during mist generation, the control unit maintains the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage unit within a predetermined temperature range by repeatedly supplying and stopping the supply of hot water to the storage unit.

[0013] According to the present invention configured in this manner, when the water level in the storage section is between a predetermined lower limit water level and a predetermined upper limit water level, the control section repeatedly supplies and stops hot water, so that by simply repeatedly supplying and stopping hot water, the temperature of the hot water in the storage section can be maintained within a predetermined temperature range while mist is being generated.

[0014] In the present invention, it is preferable that the device further includes a water level detection unit that detects the level of the hot water stored in the storage unit, and if, during mist generation, the water level detected by the water level detection unit is lower than a predetermined lower limit water level, the control unit supplies hot water into the storage unit for a predetermined period of time regardless of the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage unit.

[0015] When the temperature of the hot water supplied to the storage tank is relatively high, the hot water in the storage tank is maintained at a relatively high temperature even if hot water is not supplied for a relatively long time, and the water level in the storage tank decreases. However, if the water level in the storage tank drops too low, the efficiency of mist generation by ultrasonic irradiation from the ultrasonic vibrator decreases. Furthermore, if the supply of hot water to the storage tank causes the water level in the storage tank to exceed the lower limit during mist generation and the supply of hot water is immediately stopped, the water level immediately falls below the lower limit and hot water supply resumes, and this operation is repeated many times in a short period of time. According to the present invention configured as described above, when the water level is lower than the predetermined lower limit during mist generation, hot water is supplied regardless of the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage tank, thereby preventing an excessive drop in the water level in the storage tank. Furthermore, since hot water is supplied to the storage tank for a predetermined period of time, chattering, which occurs when hot water supply is repeatedly started and stopped in a short period of time, can be prevented.

[0016] In the present invention, it is preferable that the device further includes a water level detection unit that detects the level of the hot water stored in the storage unit, and if the water level detected by the water level detection unit is higher than a predetermined upper water level during mist generation, the control unit stops the supply of hot water to the storage unit for a predetermined time regardless of the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage unit.

[0017] When the temperature of the hot water supplied to the storage tank is relatively low, even if the water level exceeds the upper limit, the temperature of the hot water in the storage tank may not rise to the appropriate temperature range. Continuing to supply hot water in this case results in the supply of hot water continuing to be discharged, resulting in a large amount of hot water being wasted. Furthermore, if the supply of hot water to the storage tank is stopped during mist generation, and the water level in the storage tank falls below the upper limit. If the temperature of the hot water in the storage tank is below the lower limit, immediately restarting the supply of hot water to bring the hot water in the storage tank to the desired temperature range will immediately cause the water level to exceed the upper limit, stopping the supply of hot water. This operation will be repeated multiple times in a short period of time. According to the present invention configured as described above, when the water level is higher than the predetermined upper limit during mist generation, the supply of hot water is stopped regardless of the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage tank, thereby preventing unnecessary hot water supply. Furthermore, in this case, the supply of hot water to the storage tank is stopped for a predetermined period of time, preventing chattering, which occurs when the supply of hot water is repeatedly started and stopped in a short period of time.

[0018] In the present invention, preferably, the mist generating device further comprises a hot water generating device provided separately from the main body of the mist generating device, for supplying hot water at a predetermined temperature to the reservoir.

[0019] According to the present invention configured in this way, since the hot water generating device is provided separately from the main body of the mist generator, there is no need to provide a heater or the like in the reservoir to heat the hot water, which improves maintainability. Also, it reliably eliminates the risk of the user coming into contact with the heater or the like inside the main body of the mist generator while the mist is being generated.

[0020] In the present invention, the hot water generating device is preferably configured to generate hot water by electrical heating.

[0021] According to the present invention configured in this manner, the hot water generating device generates hot water by electrical heating, so that hot water can be generated even at a small flow rate, and the hot water can be supplied to the storage section stably.

[0022] In the present invention, the hot water generating device is preferably configured to electrically heat the hot water stored inside the hot water generating device.

[0023] According to the present invention configured in this manner, the hot water generating device electrically heats the hot water stored inside, so that high-temperature hot water can be generated even using a relatively low-output heater, etc., and the hot water generating device can be installed inexpensively. [Effects of the Invention]

[0024] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a mist generating device that is easy to clean and has high maintainability. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0025] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a state in which a mist generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied to a bathtub apparatus, which is a plumbing device. [Figure 2] 1 is a side cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a mist generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of a mist generator body of a mist generator according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a perspective view of a main body of a mist generator according to an embodiment of the present invention, with a mist ejection unit removed. FIG. [Figure 5] 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the mist generating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 4 is a time chart showing an example of the operation of the mist generating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 4 is a time chart showing an example of the operation of the mist generating device according to the embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026] Next, a mist generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a mist generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention applied to a bathtub device, which is a plumbing device, and Fig. 2 is a side cross-sectional view showing the schematic configuration of the mist generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] As shown in Figure 1, a bathtub apparatus 2, which is a plumbing fixture incorporating a mist generator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, is installed in a bathroom 3. An operating unit 4 for operating the mist generator 1 is attached to the wall of the bathroom 3.

[0028] Bathtub apparatus 2 includes a bathtub main body 2a that forms a mist retention space 6 that receives mist supplied from mist generator 1. Examples of plumbing equipment to which mist generator 1 of this embodiment can be applied include bathrooms, toilets, washrooms, and kitchens. In these cases, mist generator 1 is installed to supply mist to the bathtub main body, bathroom wash area floor, shower room, hand-washing bowl, washbasin bowl, kitchen sink, and other plumbing equipment. Bathroom 3 is not limited to a room where only the bathtub main body 2a is located, but may also include a toilet, hand-washing equipment, washbasin, or a combination of these.

[0029] The operation unit 4 is configured to allow the user to fill the bathtub body 2a of the bathtub device 2 with water, set the temperature, etc. The operation unit 4 also has operation functions such as supplying and stopping the mist supplied from the mist generator 1, and setting the mist temperature. The operation unit 4 may be installed outside the bathroom 3, or may be a remote control or other remote operation unit.

[0030] 2, the mist generator 1 has a mist generator main body 8 in which mist is generated, a storage unit 10 that stores hot water to be turned into mist, an ultrasonic vibrator 12 that generates the mist, a mist discharge unit 14 that discharges the generated mist into the mist retention space 6, and a control unit 16. Hot water is supplied to the storage unit 10 of the mist generator 1 from an electric water heater 18, which is a hot water generating device, and mist is generated from the supplied hot water.

[0031] Mist generator main body 8 is a housing attached to the wall of bathroom 3, and has a reservoir 10 formed at the bottom. Mist is generated within this mist generator main body 8.

[0032] Storage unit 10 is provided at the bottom of mist generator main body 8 and is configured to store hot water to be made into mist. In addition, electric water heater 18 is connected to mist generator main body 8 via hot water valve 20 and hot water supply pipe 20a, so that hot water can be supplied to storage unit 10 within mist generator main body 8.

[0033] Furthermore, a drain pipe 22a is connected to the mist generator main body 8 via a drain valve 22, allowing the hot water in the storage section 10 to be drained. This drain valve 22 is closed when the mist generator 1 is in normal use, and is opened when the mist generator 1 will not be used for a certain period of time and it is desired to discard the hot water in the storage section 10. In addition, the storage section 10 is provided with an overflow flow path 24, which serves as an overflow section, and when the hot water stored in the storage section 10 exceeds a predetermined water level, the hot water is drained through the overflow flow path 24. The specific configuration of the overflow flow path 24 will be described later.

[0034] Furthermore, storage unit 10 is provided with temperature sensor 26, which is a temperature detection unit, and is configured to detect the temperature of the hot water stored in storage unit 10. Storage unit 10 is also provided with water level sensor 28, which is a water level detection unit, and is configured to detect the water level of the hot water stored in storage unit 10. Detection signals from temperature sensor 26 and water level sensor 28 are sent to control unit 16.

[0035] Ultrasonic vibrator 12 is provided on the bottom surface of storage section 10 and is configured to irradiate ultrasonic waves from below toward the surface of the hot water stored in storage section 10 to generate mist. Ultrasonic vibrator 12 is electrically driven and generates ultrasonic waves based on a control signal from control section 16. When ultrasonic waves are irradiated by ultrasonic vibrator 12, a water column is formed on the surface of the hot water stored in storage section 10, and mist is generated around it. In other words, the mist is generated above storage section 10 within mist generator main body 8.

[0036] The mist discharge section 14 is a passage that communicates with the inside of the mist generator main body 8 and is configured to guide the mist generated inside the mist generator main body 8 into the bathtub main body 2a, which is the mist retention space 6. In this embodiment, the mist discharge section 14 communicates with the side wall surface of the mist generator main body 8 and is configured to discharge the mist inside the mist generator main body 8 from the lower end that opens downward.

[0037] The control unit 16 is configured to control the ultrasonic vibrator 12, hot water valve 20, drain valve 22, etc. based on detection signals from the temperature sensor 26, water level sensor 28, etc. In other words, the control unit 16 is configured to operate the ultrasonic vibrator 12 while maintaining the hot water stored in the storage unit 10 within a predetermined temperature range and a predetermined water level range, thereby causing a desired amount of mist to be discharged from the mist discharge unit 14 at a desired temperature. Specifically, the control unit 16 is configured by a microprocessor, memory, an interface circuit, software for operating these, etc. (all not shown).

[0038] The electric water heater 18 is a hot water generating device provided separately from the mist generator main body 8, and is configured to supply hot water at a predetermined temperature to the storage unit 10. In this embodiment, the electric water heater 18 is configured to electrically heat the hot water stored therein, and is configured to supply hot water at a generally constant temperature to the storage unit 10. That is, when the hot water valve 20 is opened by a control signal from the control unit 16, hot water at the predetermined temperature is supplied to the storage unit 10 via the hot water supply pipe 20a. Any type of water heater can be used as the hot water generating device.

[0039] Next, the specific structure inside the mist generator main body 8 of the mist generator 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. Fig. 3 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the mist generator main body 8 of the mist generator 1 according to this embodiment. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the mist generator main body 8 with the mist discharge part 14 removed.

[0040] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the mist generator main body 8 of the mist generator 1 is formed in a roughly rectangular box shape, with the hot water to be turned into mist stored in its lower part, forming a storage section 10. A recess 12a is provided in the bottom of the storage section 10, and an ultrasonic vibrator 12 is attached to the bottom surface of this recess 12a, facing vertically upward. With this structure, the ultrasonic vibrator 12 irradiates ultrasonic waves toward the water surface W of the hot water stored in the storage section 10, forming a liquid column LC above the water surface W vertically above the ultrasonic vibrator 12. In this way, a liquid column LC is formed above the water surface W in the storage section 10 by the irradiation of ultrasonic waves, and mist is generated around this liquid column LC in the internal space of the mist generator main body 8.

[0041] 4, five recesses 12a are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the mist generator main body 8 at the bottom of the reservoir 10, and an ultrasonic vibrator 12 is provided at the bottom of each recess 12a. That is, the five ultrasonic vibrators 12 are arranged in a straight line at the bottom of the mist generator main body 8. Furthermore, partition walls 8b extending in the short side direction are provided between each recess 12a (ultrasonic vibrators 12) to separate the interior of the mist generator main body 8.

[0042] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 3 , an opening is provided at the top of one side of the mist generator main body 8, and a mist discharge unit 14 is attached to cover this opening. The mist discharge unit 14 is attached to one side of the mist generator main body 8 and is a duct with a roughly rectangular cross section that extends vertically downward from the mist generator main body 8. The upper end of the mist discharge unit 14 communicates with the interior of the mist generator main body 8 at the side, and a mist discharge port 14a facing vertically downward is provided at the lower end. As a result, mist generated in the internal space of the mist generator main body 8 flows into the mist discharge unit 14 and is discharged from the mist discharge port 14a at the lower end of the mist discharge unit 14. Note that, although the mist discharge unit 14 is configured as a duct extending vertically in this embodiment, the mist discharge unit 14 may be a simple opening with essentially no length.

[0043] Meanwhile, an outside air inlet 8a is provided at the top end of the mist generator main body 8, on the opposite side from the mist discharge unit 14. That is, when viewed from above, the outside air inlet 8a is provided on the opposite side of the ultrasonic vibrator 12 from the mist discharge unit 14. This outside air inlet 8a is formed on the top surface of the mist generator main body 8 and opens vertically upward. That is, the internal space of the mist generator main body 8 is connected to the outside air via the outside air inlet 8a, and outside air is taken into the mist generator main body 8 from here. The ceiling surface on the top of the mist generator main body 8 is sloped so that it is higher on the side of the mist discharge unit 14 and lower on the side of the outside air inlet 8a. This sloped ceiling surface guides the mist generated within the mist generator main body 8 toward the mist discharge unit 14.

[0044] 4, a hot water supply pipe 20a and an overflow path 24 are provided at one end of the mist generator main body 8. Hot water supplied from this hot water supply pipe 20a flows into the hot water supply chamber 20b in the mist generator main body 8, and flows into the reservoir 10 through a communication passage below the partition wall 8b provided adjacent to the hot water supply chamber 20b.

[0045] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 4, the overflow flow path 24 has a drainage channel connection portion 24a connected to the drain pipe 22a (FIG. 2), a drainage chamber 24b provided adjacent to the drainage channel connection portion 24a, and an overflow portion 24c provided between the drainage channel connection portion 24a and the drainage chamber 24b. The drainage chamber 24b is connected to the inside of the storage portion 10 through a passage (not shown) below the water level W when the ultrasonic transducer 12 is emitting ultrasonic waves. The overflow portion 24c is a weir extending horizontally to separate the drainage chamber 24b and the drainage channel connection portion 24a. When the water level in the drainage chamber 24b exceeds the height of the overflow portion 24c, the water in the drainage chamber 24b is discharged to the drainage channel connection portion 24a. Furthermore, since the storage portion 10 and the drainage chamber 24b are connected by a passage below the water level W, the maximum water level in the storage portion 10 is determined by the height of the overflow portion 24c.

[0046] The drain pipe 22a connected to the drain channel connection part 24a passes behind the wall of the bathroom 3 and extends to a drain pan (not shown) on the back side of the bathtub main body 2a, and the hot water that flows out of the storage part 10 is discharged into the drain pan. The drain chamber 24b is connected to the inside of the storage part 10 through a passage (not shown) below the water surface W, so the mist generated in the mist generator main body 8 does not flow out of the drain pipe 22a through the drain chamber 24b.

[0047] Next, the operation of the mist generator 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the mist generating device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 6 and 7 are time charts showing an example of the operation of the mist generating device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The flowchart shown in Figure 5 is repeatedly executed at predetermined time intervals while the mist generating device 1 is generating mist.

[0048] The control unit 16 executes the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 to adjust the hot water level in the reservoir 10 to a predetermined lower limit water level W L Above the specified upper water level W H When the temperature of the hot water in the reservoir 10 becomes equal to or lower than the predetermined lower limit temperature T LAbove the specified upper limit temperature T H The mist generator 1 is configured to be controlled as follows: During operation of the mist generator 1, ultrasonic waves are emitted by the ultrasonic vibrator 12, and mist is generated from the hot water in the reservoir 10.

[0049] In this embodiment, the lower limit temperature T L = 55℃, and the upper limit temperature T H = 58°C. By maintaining the temperature of the hot water in the reservoir 10 within this temperature range, mist at an appropriate temperature is discharged from the mist discharge port 14a of the mist discharge part 14. In addition, the water level in the reservoir 10 is set to the lower limit water level W L Above, upper water level W H By maintaining the temperature below this, an appropriate amount of mist can be generated.

[0050] First, in step S1 of FIG. 5, the detection signals of the temperature sensor 26 and the water level sensor 28 are read into the control unit 16, and the temperature Tt of the hot water and the water level Wt in the reservoir 10 are acquired. Next, in step S2, the temperature Tt of the hot water in the reservoir 10 is set to a predetermined lower limit temperature T L It is determined whether the temperature is lower than the lower limit temperature T L If it is lower than the lower limit temperature T L In the above cases, the process proceeds to step S8. At time t0 in the time chart shown in FIG. 6, the hot water temperature Tt is lower than the lower limit temperature T L Since this is the case, the process proceeds to step S8.

[0051] Furthermore, in step S8, the temperature Tt of the hot water in the reservoir 10 is set to a predetermined upper limit temperature T H It is determined whether the upper limit temperature T H If it is higher than the upper limit temperature T H In the following cases, the process proceeds to step S4. At time t0 in the time chart shown in FIG. 6, the hot water temperature Tt is equal to the upper limit temperature T H Since the result is as follows, proceed to step S4.

[0052] Next, in step S4, it is determined whether or not hot water is being poured into the storage section 10. If hot water is being poured, the process proceeds to step S5, and if hot water is not being poured, the process proceeds to step S10. At time t0 in the time chart shown in Figure 6, the hot water supply valve 20 (Figure 2) is closed, so hot water is not being poured, and the process proceeds to step S10.

[0053] Furthermore, in step S10, the water level Wt in the hot water reservoir 10 is set to a predetermined lower limit water level W L It is judged whether the water level is lower than the lower limit W L If it is lower than the lower limit water level W, proceed to step S11. L In the above cases, one processing cycle of the flowchart shown in Fig. 5 is completed. At time t0 in the time chart shown in Fig. 6, the hot water level Wt in the reservoir 10 is lower than the lower limit water level W L This completes one iteration of the flowchart.

[0054] As shown at time t0 in the time chart of Figure 6, when hot water is not being supplied to storage unit 10, the hot water is consumed by generating mist through the operation of ultrasonic vibrator 12, and the hot water level Wt in storage unit 10 decreases over time. The hot water temperature Tt in storage unit 10 also decreases due to the consumption of hot water, heat dissipation from storage unit 10, and the inflow of outside air from outside air inlet 8a (Figure 3). Therefore, after time t0, the process of steps S1 → S2 → S8 → S4 → S10 → return is repeatedly executed in the flowchart shown in Figure 5, and the hot water level Wt in storage unit 10 decreases over time, and the hot water temperature Tt in storage unit 10 also decreases.

[0055] Then, after time t0, at time t1, the water level Wt in the hot water reservoir 10 reaches a predetermined lower limit water level W L When the water level drops below this value, this is detected by the water level sensor 28. As a result, the process in the flowchart of FIG. 5 proceeds from step S10 to step S11. In step S11, the control unit 16 sends a control signal to the hot water valve 20 to open it. As a result, hot water is supplied from the electric water heater 18 to the storage unit 10 via the hot water valve 20.

[0056] Next, in step S12, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed since hot water valve 20 was opened, and this process is repeated until the predetermined time has elapsed. Therefore, after hot water valve 20 is opened, the open state of hot water valve 20 is maintained for at least the predetermined time. In other words, until the predetermined time has elapsed, the determination regarding the hot water temperature Tt in storage section 10 (steps S2, S8) is not made, and the open state of hot water valve 20 is maintained for the predetermined time.

[0057] Therefore, in this embodiment, when the water level detected by the water level sensor 28 is below a predetermined lower limit water level W L If the temperature Tt is lower than the upper limit temperature T, the control unit 16 supplies hot water to the storage unit 10 for a predetermined time regardless of the temperature Tt of the hot water stored in the storage unit 10. H Near or below the lower limit temperature T L When the hot water temperature Tt is near the hot water supply valve 20, the determination regarding the hot water temperature Tt changes each time the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 is executed, and the occurrence of so-called chattering, in which the hot water supply valve 20 is repeatedly opened and closed, can be suppressed.

[0058] At time t1 in Fig. 6, when the hot water valve 20 is opened and the supply of hot water begins, the amount of hot water supplied per unit time is greater than the amount of hot water consumed per unit time by the generation of mist, so the hot water level Wt in the storage unit 10 rises over time. Also, because hot water at a higher temperature than the hot water in the storage unit 10 is supplied from the electric water heater 18 to the storage unit 10, the temperature Tt of the hot water in the storage unit 10 also rises over time. In this embodiment, the temperature of the hot water supplied from the electric water heater 18 is set to an upper limit temperature T H The temperature is set to about 75°C, which is higher than the normal temperature. In this embodiment, hot water is supplied from the electric water heater 18 to the storage unit 10 at a flow rate of about 300 to 500 [cc / min]. In this embodiment, a hot water storage type electric water heater 18 that electrically heats hot water stored inside is used as the hot water generating device, so that relatively high temperature hot water can be supplied at a small flow rate.

[0059] Then, after hot water supply valve 20 is opened (hot water pouring ON) at time t1 in Fig. 6, at time t2 when a predetermined time has elapsed, the processing in the flowchart shown in Fig. 5 proceeds from step S4 to step S5 → return. Therefore, after time t2, the processing of steps S1 → S2 → S8 → S4 → S5 → return is repeatedly executed in the flowchart shown in Fig. 5, and the hot water level Wt in storage section 10 rises over time, and the hot water temperature Tt in storage section 10 also rises.

[0060] Furthermore, at time t3 in FIG. 6, the temperature Tt of the hot water in the reservoir 10 reaches the upper limit temperature T H 5 proceeds from step S8 to step S9. In step S9, control unit 16 sends a control signal to hot water valve 20 to close it. This stops the supply of hot water from electric water heater 18 to storage unit 10. Furthermore, the process in the flowchart proceeds from step S9 to S4 to S10 to return.

[0061] Therefore, after time t3, in the flowchart shown in Figure 5, the process of steps S1 → S2 → S8 → S4 → S10 → return is repeatedly executed, and as time passes, the water level Wt in the reservoir 10 decreases, and the water temperature Tt in the reservoir 10 also decreases. Thereafter, the control unit 16 performs the same control, so that the water temperature Tt in the reservoir 10 decreases to the upper limit temperature T H and the lower limit temperature T L The water level Wt in the reservoir 10 is maintained within a predetermined temperature range between H and the lower water level W L In this manner, in this embodiment, during mist generation, the water level Wt detected by the water level sensor 28 is maintained within a predetermined water level range between the predetermined lower limit water level W L and the predetermined upper water level W H If the temperature is between 0.01 and 0.1, the control unit 16 repeatedly starts and stops the supply of hot water to the storage unit 10, and the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage unit 10 is kept within a predetermined temperature range (upper limit temperature T H and the lower limit temperature T LThe time is maintained within 10 seconds.

[0062] Next, another example of operation of the mist generating device 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. First, at time t10 in Fig. 7, hot water valve 20 is opened, and hot water is supplied from electric water heater 18 into storage unit 10. In this state, the process of steps S1 → S2 → S8 → S4 → S5 → return is repeatedly executed in the flowchart shown in Fig. 5. Therefore, the hot water level Wt in storage unit 10 rises over time, and the hot water temperature Tt in storage unit 10 also rises over time.

[0063] At time t11 in FIG. 7, the water level Wt in the reservoir 10 reaches the upper limit water level W H 5 proceeds from step S5 to S6. In step S6, control unit 16 sends a control signal to hot water valve 20 to close it. This stops the supply of hot water from electric water heater 18 to storage unit 10.

[0064] In this embodiment, the water level sensor 28 detects whether the water level Wt in the reservoir 10 is equal to or lower than the upper water level W H In contrast, as a modified example, the upper limit water level W H is the height of the overflow portion 24c (FIG. 4) of the overflow passage 24, and by detecting the occurrence of overflow from the drain chamber 24b to the drain channel connection portion 24a with a sensor (not shown), the water level Wt in the storage portion 10 is set to the upper limit water level W H That is, a sensor (not shown) that detects overflow from the overflow passage 24 can also be used as the water level sensor 28.

[0065] Next, in step S6, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed since hot water valve 20 was closed, and this process is repeated until the predetermined time has elapsed. Therefore, after hot water valve 20 is closed, hot water valve 20 remains closed for at least the predetermined time. That is, until the predetermined time has elapsed, no determination is made regarding the temperature Tt of the hot water in storage section 10 (steps S2, S8), and hot water valve 20 remains open for the predetermined time.

[0066] Therefore, in this embodiment, when the water level detected by the water level sensor 28 is higher than the predetermined upper limit water level W H If the temperature Tt is higher than the upper limit temperature T, the control unit 16 stops the supply of hot water to the reservoir 10 for a predetermined time, regardless of the temperature Tt of the hot water stored in the reservoir 10. H Near or below the lower limit temperature T L When the hot water temperature Tt is near the hot water supply valve 20, the determination regarding the hot water temperature Tt changes each time the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 is executed, and the occurrence of so-called chattering, in which the hot water supply valve 20 is repeatedly opened and closed, can be suppressed.

[0067] Then, after hot water supply valve 20 is closed (hot water supply OFF) at time t11 in Fig. 7, at time t12 when a predetermined time has elapsed, the processing in the flowchart shown in Fig. 5 proceeds from step S4 to step S10 → return. Therefore, after time t12, the processing of steps S1 → S2 → S8 → S4 → S10 → return is repeatedly executed in the flowchart shown in Fig. 5, and the hot water level Wt in storage section 10 decreases over time, and the hot water temperature Tt in storage section 10 also decreases.

[0068] Furthermore, at time t13 in FIG. 7, the temperature Tt of the hot water in the reservoir 10 reaches the lower limit temperature T L5, the process proceeds from step S2 to step S3. In step S3, control unit 16 sends a control signal to hot water valve 20 to open it. This starts the supply of hot water from electric water heater 18 to storage unit 10. The process in the flowchart then proceeds in the order of steps S3 → S4 → S5 → RETURN.

[0069] Therefore, after time t13, in the flowchart shown in Figure 5, the process of steps S1 → S2 → S8 → S4 → S5 → return is repeatedly executed, and as time passes, the water level Wt in the reservoir 10 rises, and the water temperature Tt in the reservoir 10 also rises. Thereafter, the control unit 16 performs the same control, and the water temperature Tt in the reservoir 10 rises to the upper limit temperature T H and the lower limit temperature T L The water level Wt in the reservoir 10 is maintained within a predetermined temperature range between H and the lower limit water level W L In this manner, in this embodiment, during mist generation, the water level Wt detected by the water level sensor 28 is maintained within a predetermined water level range between the predetermined lower limit water level W L and the predetermined upper water level W H If the temperature is between 0 and 100°C, the control unit 16 repeatedly starts and stops the supply of hot water to the storage unit 10, and the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage unit 10 is kept within a predetermined temperature range (upper limit temperature T H and the lower limit temperature T L The time is maintained within 10 seconds.

[0070] According to the mist generator 1 of the embodiment of the present invention, hot water generated outside the mist generator main body 8 is supplied to the storage unit 10, so there is no need to provide a heater inside the mist generator main body 8, which improves the ease of cleaning the inside of the storage unit 10. Furthermore, because there is no need to provide a heater inside the mist generator main body 8, the risk of a user inserting their fingers into the mist generator main body 8 and touching the heater while the mist is being generated is reliably eliminated.

[0071] Furthermore, according to the mist generator 1 of this embodiment, the mist generator main body 8 is equipped with an outside air inlet 8a for taking in outside air, so when the supply of hot water to the storage unit 10 is stopped, the temperature of the hot water in the storage unit 10 can be lowered relatively quickly. Therefore, simply by using the control unit 16 to control the start and stop of the supply of hot water generated outside the mist generator main body 8 to the storage unit 10, the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage unit 10 can be maintained within an appropriate range relatively easily.

[0072] Furthermore, according to the mist generating device 1 of this embodiment, an overflow flow path 24 is provided that discharges the hot water in the storage section 10 when the water level stored in the storage section 10 exceeds a predetermined height, so that the temperature of the hot water in the storage section 10 can be increased while limiting the rise in the water level in the storage section 10.

[0073] Furthermore, according to the mist generating device 1 of this embodiment, the water level in the reservoir 10 is kept below a predetermined lower limit water level W L and the predetermined upper water level W H When the temperature is between 0 and 100°C, the control unit 16 repeatedly starts and stops the supply of hot water, so that the temperature of the hot water in the storage unit 10 can be maintained within a predetermined temperature range while mist is being generated simply by repeatedly starting and stopping the supply of hot water.

[0074] Furthermore, according to the mist generating device 1 of this embodiment, when the mist is being generated, the water level does not exceed a predetermined lower limit water level W L If the temperature is lower than this, hot water is supplied regardless of the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage unit 10 (steps S10 to S11 in FIG. 5), which prevents the water level in the storage unit 10 from dropping excessively. In this case, hot water is supplied into the storage unit 10 for a predetermined time (step S12 in FIG. 5), which prevents chattering, in which the supply of hot water is repeatedly started and stopped in a short period of time.

[0075] Furthermore, according to the mist generating device 1 of this embodiment, the water level does not exceed a predetermined upper limit water level W during mist generation. HIf the temperature is higher than 100°C, the supply of hot water is stopped regardless of the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage unit 10 (steps S5 to S6 in Fig. 5), thereby preventing the supply of hot water from being wasted. In this case, the supply of hot water into the storage unit 10 is stopped for a predetermined time (step S7 in Fig. 5), thereby preventing chattering, which occurs when the supply and stop of hot water is repeated in a short period of time.

[0076] Furthermore, with the mist generator 1 of this embodiment, the electric water heater 18, which is the hot water producing device, is provided separately from the mist generator main body 8, so there is no need to provide a heater or the like for heating hot water inside the reservoir 10, improving maintainability. Also, the risk of the user touching the heater or the like inside the mist generator main body 8 while mist is being generated is reliably eliminated.

[0077] Furthermore, according to the mist generating device 1 of this embodiment, the electric water heater 18 generates hot water by electrical heating, so that hot water can be generated even at a small flow rate, and the hot water can be stably supplied to the storage section 10.

[0078] Furthermore, according to the mist generating device 1 of this embodiment, the electric water heater 18 electrically heats the hot water stored inside, so that high-temperature hot water can be generated even with a relatively low-output heater, etc., and the hot water generating device can be installed at low cost.

[0079] The mist generating device according to the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, but various modifications can be made to the above-described embodiment. H When the water level reaches the upper limit water level W, the supply of hot water to the reservoir 10 is stopped. H The present invention can also be configured so that the supply of hot water continues if the temperature of the hot water in the reservoir 10 does not rise sufficiently even when the temperature reaches 10. In this case, hot water flows in and overflows from the overflow path 24, causing the temperature of the hot water in the reservoir 10 to rise. [Explanation of symbols]

[0080] 1. Mist generator 2 Bathtub equipment (water equipment) 2a Bathtub body 3 Bathroom 4 Control section 6 Mist retention space 8 Mist generator body 8a Outside air inlet 8b Partition wall 10 Storage section 12 Ultrasonic transducer 12a Recess 14 Mist discharge part 14a Mist outlet 16 Control Unit 18 Electric water heater (hot water generating device) 20 Hot water valve 20a hot water pipe 22 Drain valve 22a Drain pipe 24 Overflow channel (overflow section) 24a Drainage channel connection 24b Drain room 24c Overflow section 26 Temperature sensor (temperature detection part) 28 Water level sensor (water level detection part)

Claims

1. A mist generating device that supplies mist to a mist retention space of a plumbing device, A mist generator body; a storage section provided in the mist generating device body for storing hot water to be turned into mist; an ultrasonic vibrator that irradiates ultrasonic waves onto the hot water stored in the storage section to generate mist; a mist discharge unit that discharges the mist generated by the ultrasonic vibrator into the mist retention space; a control unit that controls supply and stop of hot water generated outside the mist generating device body to the storage unit; A mist generating device comprising:

2. 2. The mist generating device according to claim 1, wherein the mist generating device body is provided with an outside air inlet for taking outside air into the mist generating device body.

3. 2. The mist generating device according to claim 1, wherein the storage section is provided with an overflow section that discharges the hot water stored in the storage section when the water level of the hot water stored in the storage section exceeds a predetermined height.

4. A mist generating device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a water level detection unit that detects the level of the hot water stored in the storage unit, and when the water level detected by the water level detection unit is between a predetermined lower limit water level and a predetermined upper limit water level during mist generation, the control unit maintains the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage unit within a predetermined temperature range by repeatedly supplying and stopping hot water to the storage unit.

5. A mist generating device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a water level detection unit that detects the level of hot water stored in the storage unit, and if, during mist generation, the water level detected by the water level detection unit is lower than a predetermined lower limit water level, the control unit supplies hot water into the storage unit for a predetermined period of time regardless of the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage unit.

6. A mist generating device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a water level detection unit that detects the level of hot water stored in the storage unit, and if, during mist generation, the water level detected by the water level detection unit is higher than a predetermined upper water level, the control unit stops the supply of hot water to the storage unit for a predetermined time regardless of the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage unit.

7. 4. The mist generating device according to claim 1, further comprising a hot water generating device provided separately from the main body of the mist generating device, for supplying hot water at a predetermined temperature to the reservoir.

8. 8. The mist generating device according to claim 7, wherein the hot water generating device is configured to generate hot water by electrical heating.

9. 9. The mist generating device according to claim 8, wherein the hot water generating device is configured to electrically heat the hot water stored inside the hot water generating device.

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