Water treatment device management system and household water treatment device

Abstract

To provide a water treatment device management system, a household water treatment device, and a water treatment system that can deal with even abrupt population increase or decrease without accompanying a large scale construction and allow a waste water treatment and supply of water for use even in a district with restricted water resource.SOLUTION: This disclosure relates to a system comprising: a water treatment device arranged at a water use place or its neighborhood for treatment of pretreatment water using a filter unit having at least one kind of a filter to prepare post-treatment water to be supplied to the water use place; and a computer having a memory device that stores a water type estimation program. The computer estimates a water type of pretreatment water corresponding to a detection result, etc., of a sensor included in the water treatment device, and performs a process for transmitting information of an exchange filter corresponding to the estimated water type of pretreatment water and information relating to an operational method to the water treatment device, or a process for transmitting the information to be displayed on a display device of the computer.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a management system for a domestic water treatment device, a domestic water treatment device, and a water treatment system that treats untreated water using at least one type of filter and supplies treated water to a water use location. [Background technology]

[0002] There is an impression that water supply and sewerage systems in Japan are well-maintained. Most of the current water supply and sewerage systems in countries such as Japan are large-scale, and these systems are based on piping networks that have been planned over several decades (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-177060 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The water supply and sewerage systems described above require large-scale construction work to be carried out, as the piping network must be laid underground, etc. For this reason, in Japan and other countries, the current water supply and sewerage systems have been developed over decades of construction time and at enormous cost. However, underground pipe networks require maintenance after several decades, and this maintenance is becoming necessary even before the water supply and sewerage system is complete. This maintenance requires large-scale construction work, which increases the maintenance costs.

[0005] On the other hand, countries that do not have as well-developed water supply and sewerage systems as Japan will have to develop them in the future, but as mentioned above, this will require large-scale construction work, the associated costs, and large-scale construction and maintenance work for decades to come, along with the associated costs. Furthermore, the current water supply and sewerage system is unable to accommodate rapid population changes, making it unsuitable for the future. Furthermore, the current water supply and sewerage systems are suited to areas with abundant water resources, and do not function in areas with limited water resources, or there is no thought of developing them.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a water treatment device management system, a domestic water treatment device, and a water treatment system that can respond to sudden changes in population without large-scale construction work, and that can treat wastewater and supply water for use even in areas with limited water resources. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention employs the following means. A first aspect of the present invention is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water usage location and treats untreated water using at least one type of filter to produce treated water to be supplied to the water usage location, and includes a filter information storage unit that stores information on filters in use used in the domestic water treatment device, an information receiving unit that receives information on performance changes of the filters in use from the domestic water treatment device, and a water type estimation means that estimates the water type of the untreated water based on the information on performance changes and the filter information in use, and the filter information in use includes performance change standard information for filters that are the same or of the same type as the filter in use for each of a plurality of types of standard untreated water.

[0008] In this aspect, performance change reference information for filters that are the same as or of the same type as the filters in use for each of multiple types of reference untreated water is used, and information on performance changes for filters that are actually being used is also used. Therefore, although the usage conditions of household water treatment devices, the uses of treated water, and the type of untreated water vary and naturally fluctuate, it is possible to improve the accuracy of water type estimation for each of various usage conditions and uses of treated water.

[0009] In other words, typical water treatment facilities are large-scale facilities that can accommodate a variety of uses for treated water, types of raw water, etc., and can also accommodate changes in these. In other words, the same water treatment is performed on all types of raw water, and therefore, facilities tend to be large-scale facilities in order to provide a water treatment process that can accommodate all types of raw water.

[0010] In contrast, this type of household water treatment device can improve the accuracy of estimating the water type of the pre-treated water regardless of the usage conditions, the purpose of the treated water, the type of the pre-treated water, etc., which is extremely advantageous for performing water treatment according to the type of pre-treated water and also enables the miniaturization of the water treatment unit. This eliminates the need for large-scale construction work, which has the advantage of being able to respond to sudden population fluctuations. Furthermore, it enables wastewater treatment and water supply for use in areas with limited water resources.

[0011] A second aspect of the present invention is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water usage location and treats untreated water using at least one type of filter to produce treated water to be supplied to the water usage location, and includes a filter information storage unit that stores information on filters in use used in the domestic water treatment device, an information receiving unit that receives information on performance changes of the filters in use from the domestic water treatment device, and a water type estimation means that estimates the water type of the untreated water based on the information on performance changes and the filter information in use, wherein the filter information in use includes at least one of filter type identification information in use that identifies at least one of the type, specifications, product number, and name of the filter in use, and filter function identification information in use that indicates at least one of the functions and performance of the filter in use.

[0012] In this embodiment, at least one of the filter type identification information and the filter function identification information is used, and information on changes in the performance of the filter that is actually being used is also used. Therefore, although there are various usage conditions of the household water treatment device, uses of the treated water, and types of untreated water, and these naturally fluctuate, it is possible to improve the accuracy of water type estimation for each of various usage conditions and uses of the treated water.

[0013] For example, information on various performance changes of the filter in use for various types of untreated water may already be obtained, or accurate simulations of the performance changes may have been performed, and some or all of the specifications for the filter in use may be created based on the information on the various performance changes and the results of the simulations. Alternatively, the information on the various performance changes and the results of the simulations may be linked to the type, product number, and name of the filter in use. The more performance data on the filter in use is accumulated, the more accurately the performance changes of the filter in use can be estimated using the type, product number, name, and specifications, and the accuracy of the filter function identification information in use will also improve.

[0014] A third aspect of the present invention is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water usage location and uses a filter unit to treat untreated water to produce treated water to be supplied to the water usage location, and includes a filter information storage unit that stores information on filter units in use used in the domestic water treatment device, an information receiving unit that receives information on performance changes of the filter units in use from the domestic water treatment device, and a water type estimation means that estimates the water type of the untreated water based on the information on performance changes and the filter unit information in use, and the filter unit information in use includes performance change standard information for filter units that are the same or of the same type as the filter unit in use for each of a plurality of types of standard untreated water.

[0015] Because a filter unit is not a single component but is composed of multiple components, the performance of the entire filter unit often changes depending on how the components are combined. For example, even if a filter unit has two filters and the performance and performance change trends of each filter are known, the performance and performance change trends of the filter unit often cannot be predicted from the performance and performance change trends of each filter. In addition, the performance and performance change trends of the filter unit vary depending on the usage conditions of the household water treatment device, the use of the treated water, the type of water before treatment, etc.

[0016] In this aspect, performance change reference information for filter units that are the same or of the same type as the filter units currently in use for each of multiple types of reference untreated water is used, and information on performance changes for filter units that are actually being used is also used. Therefore, although the usage conditions of household water treatment devices, the uses of treated water, and the type of untreated water vary and naturally fluctuate, it is possible to improve the accuracy of water type estimation for each of various usage conditions and uses of treated water.

[0017] A fourth aspect of the present invention is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water usage location and uses a filter unit to treat untreated water to produce treated water to be supplied to the water usage location, and includes a filter information storage unit that stores information about filter units in use used in the domestic water treatment device, an information receiving unit that receives information about performance changes of the filter units in use from the domestic water treatment device, and a water type estimation means that estimates the water type of the untreated water based on the information about the performance changes and the filter unit information in use, wherein the filter unit information in use includes at least one of filter unit type identification information in use that identifies at least one of the type, specifications, product number, and name of the filter unit in use, and filter unit function identification information in use that indicates at least one of the functions and performance of the filter unit in use.

[0018] In this embodiment, at least one of the filter unit type identification information and the filter unit function identification information in use is used, and information on changes in the performance of the filter unit that is actually being used is also used. Therefore, although the usage conditions of household water treatment devices, the uses of treated water, and the type of untreated water vary and naturally fluctuate, it is possible to improve the accuracy of water type estimation for each of various usage conditions and uses of treated water.

[0019] In each of the above aspects, it is preferable that the filter information storage unit stores replacement filter information, which is information on a replacement filter or replacement filter unit that can be replaced with the filter or filter unit in use, and the replacement filter information includes performance change standard information for at least one replacement filter or replacement filter unit for each of the multiple types of standard untreated water, and that the household water treatment device further includes an information supply means that refers to at least the replacement filter information and, if there is a replacement filter or replacement filter unit that can improve performance change more than the filter or filter unit in use for the water type estimated by the water type estimation means, transmits filter replacement information including information on the filter or filter unit to the household water treatment device or a computer owned by the user.

[0020] In this aspect, if there is a replacement filter or filter unit that can improve the water type estimated by the water type estimation means, information about the filter or filter unit is sent to the household water treatment device or the user's computer, so that the user can improve the filter performance by replacing the filter or filter unit in accordance with the information.

[0021] In each of the above aspects, it is preferable to further provide an information supply means that performs at least one of transmitting information regarding operating methods corresponding to the water type estimated by the water type estimation means to the domestic water treatment device or a computer owned by the user, and transmitting maintenance information corresponding to the water type estimated by the water type estimation means to the domestic water treatment device or the user's computer.

[0022] In this case, for example, a control signal for controlling the domestic water treatment device is transmitted as information regarding the operating method according to the estimated water type, and when the pump, valves, and other components of the domestic water treatment device are controlled in accordance with the control signal, the domestic water treatment device operates appropriately according to the water type before treatment. In addition, the user can take appropriate measures by viewing the information regarding the operating method and maintenance information displayed on the display device of the domestic water treatment device or the display device of a computer.

[0023] In each of the above aspects, it is preferable to further provide a filter information creation means that accumulates at least one of information regarding performance changes of the filter in use and information regarding performance changes of the filter unit in use, and the water type estimated by the water type estimation means, and uses the accumulated information to create at least one of the filter in use performance change standard information, the filter unit in use performance change standard information, and the replacement filter information.

[0024] In this case, the usage conditions of household water treatment devices, the uses of treated water, the types of untreated water, etc. vary, but if there are a large number of household water treatment devices in use, data on actual usage conditions for each of the usage conditions, uses of treated water, and types of untreated water will be collected, and actual in-use filter performance change standard information, in-use filter unit performance change standard information, and replacement filter information will be created.

[0025] In each of the above aspects, it is preferable that the water treatment device management system receives user input information from the domestic water treatment device or a user's computer, the user input information including at least one of the purpose of water at the water usage location, the properties of the untreated water, and the source of the untreated water, and the water type estimation means estimates the water type using the user input information as well. The presence of user input information is advantageous in improving the accuracy of water type estimation.

[0026] A fifth aspect of the present invention provides a domestic water treatment device comprising: a raw water inlet; a filter unit or filter through which raw water entering through the raw water inlet passes; a pump arranged upstream or downstream of the filter unit or filter and introducing the raw water into the filter unit or filter; a treated water outlet through which treated water that has been treated by passing through the filter unit exits; and a control unit that receives filter replacement information from the water treatment device management system.

[0027] A sixth aspect of the present invention provides a domestic water treatment device comprising an untreated water inlet, a filter unit or filter through which untreated water entering through the untreated water inlet passes, a pump arranged upstream or downstream of the filter unit or filter and introducing the untreated water into the filter unit or filter, a treated water outlet from which treated water that has been treated by passing through the filter unit exits, and a control unit that controls at least the pump, wherein the control unit is configured to control the pump based on information regarding the operating method received from the water treatment device management system.

[0028] A seventh aspect of the present invention is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that can treat untreated water and supply treated water, and is configured to include an information storage unit that receives and stores information such as whether or not water treatment components such as filters and pumps are installed in the domestic water treatment device, the type of each component, the rated function of each component, and the function currently being performed, and to receive detection results or estimated results of the amount of water to be treated by the domestic water treatment device, water quality, etc. from the domestic water treatment device, and to maintain optimal operation of the components or control them to achieve optimal operating conditions based on the detection results or estimated results and the information stored in the information storage unit.

[0029] In this embodiment, a household water treatment device is managed by a water treatment device management system, and the household water treatment device treats raw water and supplies treated water. Therefore, if each water usage location, such as each home or commercial facility, has the household water treatment device and the household water treatment device is managed by the water treatment device management system, it becomes possible to treat wastewater in each home and supply water for use in each home without large-scale construction. Because no large-scale construction is required, it can respond to sudden population changes and can treat raw water and supply treated water, making it suitable for areas with limited water resources.

[0030] The eighth aspect of the present invention is related to the seventh aspect. This aspect is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water usage location, treats untreated water using at least one type of filter, and supplies treated water to a predetermined location such as the water usage location, a filter information storage unit that stores information on filters currently in use in the household water treatment device and information on replacement filters that can be replaced with the currently in use filters; an information supply means for transmitting filter replacement information based on the in-use filter information and / or the replacement filter information to the household water treatment device or a user's computer; an information receiving unit that receives information about a change in performance of the filter during use from the household water treatment device; a water type estimation means for estimating the water type of the untreated water based on the information on the performance change and / or the in-use filter information, the in-use filter information includes performance degradation reference information of a filter that is the same as or of the same type as the in-use filter for each of a plurality of types of reference untreated water, and the replacement filter information includes performance degradation reference information of at least one replacement filter for each of the plurality of types of reference untreated water, The information supply means is configured to refer to at least the performance degradation standard information of the replacement filter, to refer to the performance degradation standard information of a filter that is the same or similar type as the filter in use and the performance degradation standard information of the replacement filter, or to refer to information regarding the performance change and the performance degradation standard information of the replacement filter, and if there is a replacement filter that can delay performance degradation more than the filter in use for the water type estimated by the water type estimation means, to send the filter replacement information including information about the filter to the domestic water treatment device or the computer.

[0031] For example, in a case where a domestic water treatment device is configured to use water after showering as untreated water and supply the treated water to a shower nozzle, and shower water is repeatedly treated by the domestic water treatment device, if some filters are not suitable for a certain type of soap or shampoo used by the user, the quality of the treated water after treatment by the filter may be poor.

[0032] In this aspect, the filter information includes performance degradation reference information for filters that are the same or of the same type as the filter in use for each of the multiple types of reference untreated water, and the replacement filter information references the performance degradation reference information for at least one replacement filter for each of the multiple types of reference untreated water, or references information on the performance change and the performance degradation reference information for the replacement filter.If there is a replacement filter that can improve the water type estimated by the water type estimation means, information about that filter is sent to the household water treatment device or the computer.This allows the user to slow down the performance degradation of the filter by replacing the filter in accordance with the information.

[0033] A ninth aspect of the present invention is related to the seventh aspect. This aspect is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water usage location, treats untreated water using at least one type of filter, and supplies treated water to a predetermined location such as the water usage location, a filter information storage unit that stores information on filters currently in use in the household water treatment device and information on replacement filters that can be replaced with the currently in use filters; an information supply means for transmitting filter replacement information based on the in-use filter information and / or the replacement filter information to the household water treatment device or a user's computer; an information receiving unit that receives information about a change in performance of the filter during use from the household water treatment device; a water type estimation means for estimating the water type of the untreated water based on the information on the performance change and / or the in-use filter information, the in-use filter information includes at least one of in-use filter type identification information that identifies the type of the in-use filter, such as the type, specifications, product number, and name of the filter, and in-use filter function identification information that indicates the function, performance, etc. of the filter, and the replacement filter information includes performance degradation standard information of at least one replacement filter for each of the plurality of types of standard untreated water, The information supply means is configured to refer to either or both of the filter type identification information in use and the filter function identification information in use, and the performance degradation standard information for the replacement filter, or to refer to information regarding the performance change and the performance degradation standard information for the replacement filter, and if there is a replacement filter that can delay performance degradation more than the filter in use for the water type estimated by the water type estimation means, to send the filter replacement information including information about the filter to the domestic water treatment device or the computer.

[0034] In this embodiment, the water type estimation unit also refers to one or both of the filter type identification information and the filter function identification information, and the performance degradation criteria information for the replacement filter, or refers to the information on performance changes and the performance degradation criteria information for the replacement filter, and if there is a replacement filter that can improve the water type estimated by the water type estimation unit, information on the filter is transmitted to the household water treatment device or the computer. Therefore, the user can slow down the performance degradation of the filter by replacing the untreated water in accordance with the information.

[0035] A tenth aspect of the present invention is related to the seventh aspect. This aspect is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water usage location, treats untreated water using at least one type of filter, and supplies treated water to a predetermined location such as the water usage location, an information receiving unit that receives information about a change in performance of a filter in use from the household water treatment device; a filter information storage unit that stores information on filters currently in use in the household water treatment device; a water type estimation means for estimating the water type of the untreated water based on the information on the performance change and / or the in-use filter information, The in-use filter information includes performance degradation reference information of a filter that is the same as or of the same type as the in-use filter for each of a plurality of types of reference untreated water, The system further includes an information supply means for performing at least one of the following: transmitting information regarding operating methods for the domestic water treatment device according to the water type estimation result of the water type estimation means; and transmitting maintenance information to the domestic water treatment device or a computer owned by the user according to the water type estimation result of the water type estimation means.

[0036] In this aspect, information on operating methods and maintenance information are transmitted in accordance with the water type estimation result of the water type estimation means. While users can only subjectively judge the condition of the water they are using, as described above, the system objectively estimates the type of water the user is using and transmits the information based on this estimation. Therefore, for example, as an improvement in operating methods, the user can improve the performance and durability of the household water treatment device by replacing untreated water in accordance with the information.

[0037] In the above aspect, the household water treatment device further has a pump that sends water to the filter in use, and the information supply means is configured to transmit information regarding an operating method of the pump according to the water type estimation result of the water type estimation means. In addition, in the above aspect, the information supply means is configured to transmit information regarding an operating method of the pump that is suitable for delaying performance degradation of the filter in use based on the water type estimation result of the water type estimation means.

[0038] Each filter has an allowable water pressure and water volume, and among these, there is a point at which the water pressure and water volume will extend the filter's lifespan. This point varies depending on the type and size of the filter, as well as the water type. Meanwhile, each household water treatment device is used in a different location and for a different purpose, so the condition of the water before treatment varies greatly. Therefore, this aspect, which provides information on operating methods that enable a longer filter lifespan based on the water type estimation results, is extremely effective in extending the filter's lifespan.

[0039] In order to transmit information about the pump operation method based on the water type estimation result, for example, the water treatment device management system stores data on the appropriate water pressure range or appropriate water volume range for each of multiple water types in a memory device corresponding to the filter type. By referring to this data, it becomes possible to provide information about the operation method according to the estimated water type for each filter type.

[0040] Furthermore, in the above aspect, more specifically, the at least one type of filter has two or more filters to form a filter unit in use, the domestic water treatment device further has a pump that sends water to the filter unit in use, and the information supply means is configured to transmit information regarding a method of operating the pump in accordance with the water type estimation result of the water type estimation means. In addition, in the above aspect, the information supply means is configured to transmit information regarding an operating method of the pump that is suitable for delaying performance degradation of some or all of the filter units in use based on the water type estimation result of the water type estimation means.

[0041] As mentioned above, each filter has its own allowable water pressure and water volume, and among these, there are certain points of water pressure and water volume that extend the filter's lifespan. However, these points become more complicated when two or more filter units are combined. In other words, these points will differ depending on the combination of filter units and also on the water type. Furthermore, as mentioned above, each household water treatment device is used in a different location and for a different purpose, and the condition of the water before treatment varies greatly. Therefore, this aspect, which provides information on operating methods that enable a longer lifespan based on the water type estimation results, is extremely effective in extending the lifespan of some or all of the filter units.

[0042] In order to transmit information about the pump operation method based on the water type estimation result, for example, the water treatment device management system stores data on the appropriate water pressure range or appropriate water volume range for each of multiple water types in a memory device corresponding to the type of filter unit. By referring to this data, it becomes possible to provide information about the operation method according to the estimated water type for each type of filter unit.

[0043] The eleventh aspect of the present invention is related to the seventh aspect. This aspect is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water use location, treats untreated water using at least one type of filter, and supplies treated water to the water use location, a water supply location information storage unit that stores information on at least one water supply location that can supply untreated water near the water use location; an information supply means for transmitting supply water-related information based on the water-supply location information to the home water treatment device or a user's computer; an information receiving unit that receives information about a change in performance of the filter during use from the household water treatment device, The water supply location information includes performance degradation criteria information for a filter that is the same as or of the same type as the filter currently in use, regarding untreated water at each water supply location; The information supply means is configured to refer to the water supply location information, and if there is pre-treated water that can slow the performance degradation of the filter in use more slowly than the rate of performance degradation estimated based on information regarding the performance changes for the current pre-treated water, to send the supply water-related information corresponding to the pre-treated water to the domestic water treatment device or the computer.

[0044] This aspect is particularly useful, for example, when there are various water supply locations around a water usage location. As a specific example, if a household water treatment device is configured to use water after showering as untreated water and supply the treated water to a shower nozzle, and the shower water is repeatedly treated by the household water treatment device, the quality of the untreated water and the treated water may gradually deteriorate in terms of the amount of certain bacteria, etc., as the water is repeatedly used. As the amount of bacteria increases, the performance of the filter that removes the bacteria decreases more quickly.

[0045] In this aspect, the information on the water supply location that can supply substitute water for the untreated water currently being used includes performance degradation standard information for a filter that is the same as or of the same type as the filter currently in use for the untreated water at the water supply location. Therefore, by referencing this information, it is possible to transmit information on untreated water that can slow down the performance degradation rate compared to the filter currently in use for the untreated water, and the user can slow down the performance degradation of the filter by replacing the untreated water in accordance with the information.

[0046] A twelfth aspect of the present invention is related to the seventh aspect. This aspect is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water use location, treats untreated water using at least one type of filter, and supplies treated water to the water use location, a filter information storage unit that stores information on filters currently in use in the household water treatment device; a water supply location information storage unit that stores information on at least one water supply location that can supply untreated water near the water use location; an information supply means for transmitting supply water-related information based on the water-supply location information to the home water treatment device or a user's computer; an information receiving unit that receives information about a change in performance of the filter during use from the household water treatment device, The water supply location information includes in-use filter evaluation comparison information that associates at least one of in-use filter type identification information that identifies the type of the in-use filter, such as the type, specifications, product number, and name of the filter, and in-use filter function identification information that indicates the function, performance, etc. of the filter, with an evaluation value for untreated water at each water treatment location; The information supply means is configured to refer to the water supply location information and the information regarding the performance change, and if there is pre-treated water that can slow the performance degradation of the filter in use more slowly than the rate of performance degradation for the current pre-treated water, to send the supply water-related information corresponding to the pre-treated water to the domestic water treatment device or the computer.

[0047] As with the above, this aspect is particularly useful when, for example, there are various water supply locations around a water usage location. In this aspect, information about a water supply location that can supply alternative water to the untreated water currently being used includes an evaluation value of the filter in use for the untreated water at that water supply location. Therefore, by referencing this information, it is possible to transmit information about untreated water that can slow the performance degradation of the filter in use compared to the rate of performance degradation of the currently used filter for the untreated water, and the user can slow the performance degradation of the filter by replacing the untreated water in accordance with the information.

[0048] A thirteenth aspect of the present invention is related to the seventh aspect. This aspect is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water use location, treats untreated water using at least one type of filter, and supplies treated water to the water use location, a water supply location information storage unit that stores information on at least one water supply location that can supply untreated water near the water use location; an information supply means for transmitting supply water-related information based on the water-supply location information to the home water treatment device or a user's computer; The water supply location information includes: in-use filter evaluation comparison information that matches at least one of in-use filter type identification information that identifies the type of in-use filter, such as the type, specifications, product number, and name of the filter, and in-use filter function identification information that indicates the function, performance, etc. of the filter, with an evaluation value for the untreated water at each water treatment location; and replacement filter evaluation comparison information that matches at least one of replacement filter type identification information that identifies the type of replacement filter that can be replaced with the in-use filter, such as the type, specifications, product number, and name of the filter, and replacement filter function identification information that indicates the function, performance, etc. of the filter, with an evaluation value for the untreated water at each water treatment location; The information supply means is configured to refer to the in-use filter evaluation comparison information and replacement filter evaluation comparison information of the water supply location information, and if there is a combination of the water supply location and the replacement filter or the in-use filter that meets a predetermined standard, transmit information regarding that combination as the supply water related information.

[0049] As with the above, this aspect is particularly useful when, for example, there are various water supply locations around a water usage location. In this embodiment, the functions of filters in use and replacement filters for untreated water at various water supply locations are stored, and if there is a combination that meets specified criteria, information about the combination is sent to the domestic water treatment device or the user's computer.The user can then refer to this information and change the untreated water and / or filter, thereby improving the quality of the treated water from the domestic water treatment device, improving the water treatment speed, etc.

[0050] In the thirteenth aspect, it is preferable that the system further comprises request receiving means for receiving a request from the user, and the information supply means is configured to determine predetermined criteria. For example, if a user requests an improvement in water treatment speed even if it means a slight decrease in water quality, and there is a combination of a water supply location and a filter in use or a combination of a water supply location and a replacement filter that satisfies the request, that combination is transmitted. The combination transmitted does not have to be one, and three combinations can be transmitted: a combination of water supply location 1 and the filter in use, a combination of water supply location 1 and replacement filter 1, and a combination of water supply location 2 and replacement filter 2.

[0051] Furthermore, each combination can be accompanied by evaluation information related to a user's request, allowing the user to compare the evaluation information and make a selection. The evaluation information can include information on the treatment speed obtained by each combination, predicted data on the quality of the treated water, information on functions such as the rate at which the filter performance deteriorates, and information on replacement costs.

[0052] The fourteenth aspect of the present invention is related to the seventh aspect. This aspect is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water usage location, treats untreated water using at least one type of filter, and supplies treated water to a predetermined location such as the water usage location, a filter information storage unit that stores information on filters currently in use in the household water treatment device and information on replacement filters that can be replaced with the currently in use filters; an information supply means for transmitting filter replacement information based on the in-use filter information and / or the replacement filter information to the household water treatment device or a user's computer; an information receiving unit that receives information about a change in performance of the filter during use from the household water treatment device; a water type estimation means for estimating the water type of the untreated water based on the information on the performance change and / or the in-use filter information, The filter information in use includes post-treatment water quality standard information using a filter that is the same as or of the same type as the filter in use for each of a plurality of types of reference untreated water, and the replacement filter information includes post-treatment water quality standard information using at least one replacement filter for each of the plurality of types of reference untreated water, The information supply means is configured to refer to at least the post-treatment water quality standard information of the replacement filter, to refer to the post-treatment water quality standard information of a filter that is the same or similar type as the filter in use and the post-treatment water quality standard information of the replacement filter, or to refer to information regarding the performance change and the post-treatment water quality standard information of the replacement filter, and if there is a replacement filter that can improve the quality of the post-treatment water more than the filter in use for the water type estimated by the water type estimation means, to send the filter replacement information including information about the filter to the domestic water treatment device or the computer.

[0053] For example, in a case where a domestic water treatment device is configured to use water after showering as untreated water and supply the treated water to a shower nozzle, and shower water is repeatedly treated by the domestic water treatment device, if some filters are not suitable for a certain type of soap or shampoo used by the user, the quality of the treated water after treatment by the filter may be poor.

[0054] In this embodiment, the system includes treated water quality standard information for a filter that is the same or similar to the filter currently in use for each of multiple types of reference raw water, and treated water quality standard information for at least one replacement filter for each of the multiple types of reference raw water, or receives information about performance changes of the filter currently in use from the household water treatment device. The system then references these information and estimates the water type as described above. If there is a replacement filter for the estimated water type that can improve the quality of the treated water more than the filter currently in use, the system transmits filter replacement information including information about the filter to the household water treatment device or the computer. Therefore, if the user replaces the filter according to the information, the quality of the treated water can be improved.

[0055] The fifteenth aspect of the present invention is related to the seventh aspect. This aspect is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water use location, treats untreated water using at least one type of filter, and supplies treated water to the water use location, a filter information storage unit that stores information on filters currently in use in the household water treatment device and information on replacement filters that can be replaced with the currently in use filters; an information supply means for transmitting filter replacement information based on the in-use filter information and / or the replacement filter information to the household water treatment device or a user's computer; an information receiving unit that receives information about a change in performance of the filter during use from the household water treatment device; a water type estimation means for estimating the water type of the untreated water based on the information on the performance change and / or the in-use filter information, The filter information in use includes at least one of filter type identification information in use that identifies the type of filter in use, such as the type, specifications, product number, and name of the filter, and filter function identification information in use that indicates the function, performance, etc. of the filter, and the replacement filter information includes post-treatment water quality standard information using at least one replacement filter for each of the plurality of types of standard untreated water, The information supply means is configured to refer to either or both of the filter type identification information in use and the filter function identification information in use, and the post-treatment water quality standard information of the replacement filter, or to refer to the information regarding the performance change and the post-treatment water quality standard information of the replacement filter, and if there is a replacement filter that can improve the quality of the post-treatment water more than the filter in use for the water type estimated by the water type estimation means, to send the filter replacement information including information about the filter to the domestic water treatment device or the computer.

[0056] In this embodiment, the system also has at least one of in-use filter type identification information and in-use filter function identification information, and treated water quality standard information for at least one replacement filter for each of multiple types of standard untreated water, or receives information about performance changes of the in-use filter from the household water treatment device. The system then references these and estimates the water type as described above. If there is a replacement filter for the estimated water type that can improve the treated water quality more than the in-use filter, the system transmits filter replacement information including information about the filter to the household water treatment device or the computer. Therefore, if the user replaces the filter according to the information, the quality of the treated water can be improved.

[0057] The sixteenth aspect of the present invention is related to the seventh aspect. This aspect is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water use location, treats untreated water using at least one type of filter, and supplies treated water to the water use location, an information receiving unit that receives information about a change in performance of a filter in use from the household water treatment device; a filter information storage unit that stores information on filters currently in use in the household water treatment device and information on replacement filters that can be replaced with the currently in use filters; a water type estimation means for estimating the water type of the untreated water based on the information on the performance change and / or the in-use filter information, The in-use filter information includes performance degradation standard information of a filter that is the same as or of the same type as the in-use filter for each of a plurality of types of reference untreated water, and the replacement filter information includes post-treatment water quality standard information by at least one replacement filter for each of the plurality of types of reference untreated water, The information supply means is configured to refer to the post-treatment water quality standard information of the replacement filter, and if there is a replacement filter that can improve the quality of the post-treatment water more than the filter in use for the water type estimated by the water type estimation means, to transmit the filter replacement information including information about the filter to the domestic water treatment device or the computer.

[0058] In this embodiment, the system also includes performance degradation standard information for filters identical or of the same type as the filter currently in use for each of multiple types of reference untreated water, and treated water quality standard information for at least one replacement filter for each of multiple types of reference untreated water, or receives information about performance changes for the filter currently in use from the household water treatment device. The system then references the treated water quality standard information for the replacement filter and estimates the water type as described above. If there is a replacement filter for the estimated water type that can improve the quality of the treated water more than the filter currently in use, the system transmits the filter replacement information, including information about the filter, to the household water treatment device or the computer. Therefore, if the user replaces the filter in accordance with the information, the quality of the treated water can be improved.

[0059] A seventeenth aspect of the present invention is related to the seventh aspect. This aspect is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water use location, treats untreated water using at least one type of filter, and supplies treated water to the water use location, a water supply location information storage unit that stores information on at least one water supply location that can supply untreated water near the water use location; an information supply means for transmitting supply water-related information based on the water-supply location information to the home water treatment device or a user's computer; The water supply location information includes quality standard information for treated water by a filter that is the same as or of the same type as the filter currently in use for untreated water at each water supply location; The information supply means is configured to refer to the treated water quality standard information, and if there is pre-treated water that can improve the quality of the treated water compared to the water quality after the pre-treated water is treated by the filter in use, to transmit the supply water-related information corresponding to the pre-treated water to the domestic water treatment device or the computer.

[0060] This embodiment is particularly useful, for example, when there are various water supply locations around a water use location. As a specific example, if a household water treatment device is configured to use water after showering as untreated water and supply the treated water to a shower nozzle at a certain time, and shower water is repeatedly treated by the household water treatment device, the quality of the untreated water and the treated water may gradually deteriorate due to repeated use of the water, for example, in terms of the amount of certain bacteria. An increase in the amount of bacteria may accelerate the deterioration of the filter's functionality or may cause a decrease in the quality of the treated water after passing through the filter.

[0061] In this aspect, the information on the water supply location that can supply substitute water for the currently used untreated water includes treated water quality standard information for a filter that is the same as or of the same type as the filter currently in use for the untreated water at the water supply location. Therefore, by referencing this information, it is possible to transmit information on untreated water that can improve the quality of the treated water compared to water treated with the currently used filter, and by the user replacing the untreated water in accordance with the information, it is possible to improve the function of the filter and the quality of the treated water.

[0062] The eighteenth aspect of the present invention is related to the seventh aspect. This aspect is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water use location, treats untreated water using at least one type of filter, and supplies treated water to the water use location, a water supply location information storage unit that stores information on at least one water supply location that can supply untreated water near the water use location; an information supply means for transmitting supply water-related information based on the water-supply location information to the home water treatment device or a user's computer; The water supply location information includes in-use filter evaluation comparison information that associates at least one of in-use filter type identification information that identifies the type of the in-use filter, such as the type, specifications, product number, and name of the filter, and in-use filter function identification information that indicates the function, performance, etc. of the filter, with an evaluation value for untreated water at each water treatment location; The information supply means is configured to refer to the water supply location information and the information related to the performance change, and if there is pre-treated water that can improve the quality of the treated water compared to the water quality after the pre-treated water is treated by the filter in use, to transmit the supply water-related information corresponding to the pre-treated water to the domestic water treatment device or the computer.

[0063] As with the above, this aspect is particularly useful when, for example, there are various water supply locations around a water usage location. In this aspect, the information on the water supply location that can supply substitute water for the untreated water currently being used includes an evaluation value of the filter in use for the untreated water at the water supply location. This makes it possible to transmit information on untreated water that can improve the quality of the treated water compared to water treated with the filter in use. By replacing the untreated water with the current untreated water according to the information, the user can improve the function of the filter and the quality of the treated water.

[0064] A nineteenth aspect of the present invention is related to the seventh aspect. This aspect is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water use location, treats untreated water using at least one type of filter, and supplies treated water to the water use location, a water supply location information storage unit that stores information on at least one water supply location that can supply untreated water near the water use location; an information supply means for transmitting supply water-related information based on the water-supply location information to the home water treatment device or a user's computer; an information receiving unit that receives information about the quality of water after passing through the in-use filter from the household water treatment device; The water supply location information includes quality standard information for treated water by a filter that is the same as or of the same type as the filter currently in use for untreated water at each water supply location; The information supply unit is configured to refer to the water supply location information and information regarding the quality of the water after passing through the filter in use, and if there is a water supply location where the quality of the water after passing through the filter in use is improved in terms of specified parameters compared to the quality of the water after passing through the filter in use, to transmit the water supply related information corresponding to the water supply location to the domestic water treatment device or the computer.

[0065] As with the above, this aspect is particularly useful when, for example, there are various water supply locations around a water usage location. In this aspect, information on water supply locations that can supply alternative water to the currently used untreated water includes information on the quality standards for treated water using the same or similar filter as the filter currently in use for the untreated water at each water supply location, and information on the quality of water that has passed through the filter currently in use is received from the household water treatment device. This makes it possible to transmit information on untreated water that can improve the quality of the treated water compared to water treated with the currently used filter, and by the user replacing the untreated water in accordance with the information, it is possible to improve the function of the filter and the quality of the treated water.

[0066] In the seventh to nineteenth aspects, more specifically, the at least one type of filter comprises two or more filters to form a filter unit in use. Preferably, the first and second filters each have an information element (such as an RFID tag) or information display (such as a two-dimensional code) that stores in-use filter type identification information that identifies the type of the in-use filter, such as its type, specifications, product number, and name, and the household water treatment device further comprises reading means for reading the in-use filter type identification information from the information element or information display of the first and second filters attached to the household water treatment device.

[0067] On the other hand, the water treatment device management system is configured to receive compatibility-related data from the household water treatment device indicating whether all of the filters in use are compatible with the household water treatment device, and if the received results meet the criteria, the information supply means transmits the various information to the household water treatment device or the computer. The compatibility-related data may be information read directly from the information element or information display. In this case, if the water treatment device management system stores information about filters compatible with the household water treatment device in a memory device, the water treatment device management system can refer to the information to determine whether the criteria are met.

[0068] The function and durability of a filter unit made up of multiple filters cannot be easily estimated from the individual filters that make it up, so it is desirable to combine filter units that are backed up by experience and data. This embodiment is extremely useful for maintaining the function and durability of the filter unit in good condition. According to the above aspect, if a user replaces a filter with a different type at their own discretion, there is a disadvantage in that the user will no longer be able to receive the various information transmitted by the information supply means. Therefore, such decisions and actions are suppressed, which is extremely useful in maintaining the functionality and durability of each filter and filter unit in good condition.

[0069] In the twentieth to twenty-third aspects, more specifically, the domestic water treatment device includes a pump for flowing untreated water through the at least one type of filter, and an operating status information storage means for detecting information relating to the operating status of the pump and storing the information in a memory device of the domestic water treatment device. Examples of information related to the operating status of the pump include the cumulative operating time of the pump, information related to the pump output (power consumption of the pump, pump discharge volume, cumulative power consumption of the pump, cumulative discharge volume of the pump, water pressure inside the pump, water pressure of water discharged from the pump, etc.), information related to pump vibration (noise generated by the pump, vibration generated by the pump, etc.), and information related to the pump environment (pump temperature, ambient temperature where the pump is located, etc.). In other words, sensors for detecting these items are attached to the domestic water treatment device.

[0070] The domestic water treatment device then sends information about the operating status to the water treatment management system, or creates data about the pump status based on the information about the operating status and sends the data about the status to the water treatment management system. The data relating to the condition may be data derived based at least on the accumulated operating time of the pump and the reference operating time of the pump (such as the operating time for which durability is guaranteed to a certain extent), or data based at least on pump vibration-related information. For example, if the sound from the pump is gradually increasing, this data indicates a decrease in pump performance based on the change in the loudness of the sound compared to when the pump was first used, and if there is a sudden change, this data indicates an abnormality in the pump.

[0071] It is more preferable that the information and data are stored in association with the cumulative operating time of the pump, the cumulative power consumption of the pump, the cumulative discharge volume of the pump, etc., and sent to the water treatment management system. In the water treatment management system, the information supply means judges the performance degradation and predicted lifespan of the pump based on this information and data, and transmits information regarding the performance degradation and predicted lifespan to the domestic water treatment device or a computer owned by the user.

[0072] This allows the user to prepare a replacement pump before the pump breaks down and stops working, improving user convenience. In addition, the information supply means can create information regarding the performance degradation and predicted lifespan using various information such as the estimation results of the water type estimation means and information regarding changes in performance of the filter during use, in addition to information and data regarding the pump.

[0073] Furthermore, since information regarding the operating status of the pump is detected until the pump is replaced or breaks down, it is also possible to analyze whether the data immediately prior to that time shows any signs of the pump needing replacement or breaking down.

[0074] In addition, information about the pump's operating status is received from multiple household water treatment devices. Therefore, the information is collected about various types of pumps, including pumps with different configurations of the filter unit that delivers water, even if the pump is the same. Based on this information, criteria for warning signs of pump replacement or damage can be created for each type of pump and stored in a memory device. When the information supplying means receives information about the pump's operating status or data on its condition from a household water treatment device, it refers to the criteria to determine whether warning signs exist and sends the results to the household water treatment device or the user's computer.

[0075] Furthermore, when detecting the information relating to the operating conditions, it is also possible to control the valve unit so that the water discharged from the pump does not pass through any of the filters. In this way, the information relating to the operating conditions can be detected without being affected by clogged filters, which is advantageous in terms of increasing accuracy.

[0076] In the seventh to nineteenth aspects, more specifically, the at least one type of filter comprises two or more filters to form a filter unit in use, and the information regarding the performance change of the in-use filter information, the type identification information, and the function identification information can also be information regarding the performance change of the entire in-use filter unit, the type identification information (in-use filter unit type identification information), and the function identification information (in-use filter unit function identification information).

[0077] Furthermore, the performance degradation standard information of a filter that is the same as or of the same type as the filter currently in use for each of the multiple types of standard pre-treated water can be set as the performance degradation standard information of a filter unit that is the same as or of the same type as the filter unit currently in use for each of the multiple types of standard pre-treated water (performance degradation standard information of a filter unit currently in use), and the performance degradation standard information of a filter that is the same as or of the same type as the filter currently in use for the pre-treated water at each water supply location can be set as the performance degradation standard information of a filter unit that is the same as or of the same type as the filter unit currently in use for the pre-treated water at each water supply location (performance degradation standard information of a filter unit currently in use).

[0078] In addition, post-treatment water quality standard information using a filter that is the same or of the same type as the filter currently in use for each of the multiple types of standard pre-treatment water can be treated as post-treatment water quality standard information using a filter unit that is the same or of the same type as the filter unit currently in use for each of the multiple types of standard pre-treatment water (post-treatment water quality standard information using a filter that is the same or of the same type as the filter currently in use for the pre-treatment water at each water supply location, and post-treatment water quality standard information using a filter that is the same or of the same type as the filter currently in use for the pre-treatment water at each water supply location can be treated as post-treatment water quality standard information using a filter unit that is the same or of the same type as the filter unit currently in use for the pre-treatment water at each water supply location (post-treatment water quality standard information using a filter unit currently in use).

[0079] In addition, the in-use filter evaluation comparison information can be the in-use filter evaluation comparison information (in-use filter unit evaluation comparison information) regarding the entire in-use filter unit, and the information regarding the quality of the passed water can be information regarding the quality of the passed water regarding the entire in-use filter unit. By receiving or storing various information about the filter unit in this manner, information that takes into account the overall configuration of the filter unit is provided to the domestic water treatment device or the user's computer, further improving convenience.

[0080] Furthermore, in the seventh to nineteenth aspects, more specifically, the type identification information and the function identification information of the replacement filter can be the type identification information (replacement filter unit type identification information) and the function identification information (replacement filter unit function identification information) relating to the entire replacement filter unit that can be replaced with the filter unit in use.

[0081] In addition, the performance degradation standard information of the replacement filter for each of the multiple types of standard pre-treated water can be set as the performance degradation standard information of the replacement filter unit for each of the multiple types of standard pre-treated water (replacement filter unit performance degradation standard information), and the performance degradation standard information of the replacement filter for the pre-treated water at each water supply location can be set as the performance degradation standard information of the replacement filter unit for the pre-treated water at each water supply location (replacement filter unit performance degradation standard information).

[0082] In addition, the post-treatment water quality standard information using a replacement filter for each of multiple types of standard pre-treatment water can be set as post-treatment water quality standard information using a replacement filter unit for each of the multiple types of standard pre-treatment water (post-treatment water quality standard information using a replacement filter unit), and the post-treatment water quality standard information using the replacement filter for pre-treatment water at each water supply location can be set as post-treatment water quality standard information using the replacement filter unit for pre-treatment water at each water supply location (post-treatment water quality standard information using a replacement filter unit).

[0083] The replacement filter evaluation and comparison information may also be replacement filter evaluation and comparison information relating to the entire replacement filter unit (replacement filter unit evaluation and comparison information). By receiving or storing various information about the replacement filter unit in this manner, information that takes into account the overall configuration of the filter unit is provided to the household water treatment device or the user's computer, further improving convenience. At this time, it is also possible to provide information on replacement filter units having a different number of filters from the filter unit currently in use, or information on replacement filter units that include a valve unit, intermediate tank, etc. in addition to filters.

[0084] For example, if the filter unit in use has a first filter that removes foreign matter (here meaning things other than water) that is larger than a certain size or length in the water before treatment, and a second filter that removes smaller foreign matter and molecules from the water after treatment with the first filter, the replacement filter unit information can also provide the above information about a replacement filter unit that has the first filter, the second filter, and an intermediate tank in which water that has passed through the first filter is stored.

[0085] Because the second filter tends to have a slower water treatment speed than the first filter, the presence of the intermediate tank makes it possible to differentiate the treatment speed of the first filter from the treatment speed of the second filter. This makes it possible to set the treatment speed of the second filter to an appropriate speed without being bound by the treatment speed of the first filter, thereby improving the quality of water treated by the second filter and slowing down the deterioration of the performance of the second filter. The replacement filter unit may also include a second filter pump for passing the water in the intermediate tank through the second filter.

[0086] In addition, the replacement filter unit information can also provide the above information about a replacement filter unit that includes the first filter, the second filter, a first flow path that flows water treated by the first filter to the user side (shower nozzle, faucet, etc.) or a user side storage tank (a tank that supplies water to the shower nozzle, faucet, etc.), a second flow path that flows to the intermediate tank, a detection means that can detect the quality of untreated water flowing into the first filter or water that has passed through the first filter, and a flow path switching means that switches the destination of the water treated by the first filter between the first flow path and the second flow path depending on the detection result of the detection means, and is configured so that water after treatment by the second filter is also supplied to the user side or the user side storage tank.

[0087] As a result, for example, if the measurement result of the electrical conductivity sensor on the untreated water is within a predetermined standard value and the quality of the untreated water is determined to be above a predetermined value, the water treated by the first filter will flow directly to the user side or the user side storage tank via the first flow path. Since the second filter is not always used and the first filter often processes water faster than the second filter, it becomes easier to ensure the amount of water supplied to the user side. On the other hand, if the quality of the untreated water temporarily drops below a predetermined value, for example, the water treated by the first filter will be sent to the intermediate tank, and the water in the intermediate tank will be treated by the second filter. Therefore, even if the quality of the untreated water deteriorates, the quality of the treated water can be maintained. Examples of temporary changes in the quality of untreated water include when treating shower wastewater, kitchen wastewater, and toilet sewage.

[0088] Furthermore, the replacement filter unit information can also provide information about a replacement filter unit that has a sludge filter that is located upstream of the first filter and removes sludge from the untreated water, or a replacement filter unit that has the sludge filter instead of the first filter. In this case, having the information about multiple types of replacement filter units that have various sludge filters further improves user convenience.

[0089] Furthermore, the replacement filter unit information can also provide information about a replacement filter unit that has a biological filter that is located upstream of the first filter and treats the untreated water using organisms, or a replacement filter unit that has the biological filter instead of the first filter. In this case, having the information about multiple types of replacement filter units that have various sludge filters further improves user convenience.

[0090] In each of the above aspects, at least one domestic water treatment device managed by the water treatment device management system comprises a filter unit having at least a first filter, a second filter of a different type from the first filter, and a valve unit that switches the flow state between a first flow state in which the untreated water is circulated only through the first filter to produce the treated water, and a second flow state in which the untreated water that has passed through the first filter is also passed through the second filter to produce the treated water, and a pump that circulates the untreated water through the filter unit, and the water treatment device management system further comprises a replacement filter information creation means that creates the replacement filter information to be used in other domestic water treatment devices using at least one of the in-use filter type identification information and the in-use filter function identification information for each of the first and second filters, the treatment flow rate information in the first flow state, the treatment flow rate information in the second flow state, and pump operating status information. The replacement filter information creation means may be configured to store at least information on the estimated water type for the filter in use and information on performance changes of the filter in use, and use the stored information to create the replacement filter information that can be used in other household water treatment devices. Naturally, it may also be configured to store at least information on performance changes of the filter unit in use and information on the estimated water type, and use the stored information to create information on replacement filter units that can be used in other household water treatment devices. It is preferable to store the information in chronological order in accordance with usage, pump operating conditions, etc.

[0091] The first filter 11 and the second filter 12 do not necessarily have to be different types. For example, even if the first filter 11 and the second filter 12 are the same filter or the same type of filter, the valve unit can be used to switch between a first flow state in which only the first filter 11 passes through, a second flow state in which the first filter 11 passes through the second filter 12, and a third flow state in which untreated water flows in parallel through the first filter 11 and the second filter 12. This allows for changes in the treatment capacity (treatment speed) and pump output in each flow state, thereby enabling reduced pump output, thereby saving power, and preserving the second filter 12. Depending on the type of filter, performance may deteriorate even if not used subsequently due to recent growth, etc., after one use. However, by preserving the second filter 12 as much as possible, for example, it is possible to delay the timing of filter unit maintenance.

[0092] In this embodiment, the replacement filter information used in the household water treatment device is created based on the operating conditions of other household water treatment devices that are actually in use, so the more household water treatment devices are managed, the more the variety and quality of replacement filter information will improve, further improving user convenience.

[0093] In order to later analyze the causes of success or failure of water treatment, the water treatment management systems of the 7th to 19th aspects may acquire data detected by environmental sensors that have traditionally been considered to be unrelated to water treatment (such as a GPS installed in each domestic water treatment device, a sound sensor that detects sounds inside or outside each domestic water treatment device, an odor sensor that detects odors outside each domestic water treatment device, a vibration sensor that detects vibrations inside or outside each domestic water treatment device, and a temperature sensor that detects the air temperature inside or outside each domestic water treatment device), and store this data in a memory device. In this way, it becomes possible to derive the relationship between these data and the success or failure of water treatment, the relationship between these data and the function and durability of each filter or filter unit, and the relationship between these data and the function and durability of the pump, and the information supply means can create and transmit each piece of information based on the derived relationships.

[0094] The water treatment management system of the seventh to nineteenth aspects may be configured to accept and store user-input information input by the user from a user's computer or a home water treatment device. The user may input information related to the device configuration of the home water treatment device or data used for estimating the water type, and the information may be stored in the water treatment management system. For example, if the user notifies the water treatment management system in advance of information such as the use of the water at the water usage location as a shower, the accuracy of predictions of how the water type will change over time can be improved, enabling more optimal operation.

[0095] In the water treatment management systems of the eighth, ninth, tenth, fourteenth, fifteenth, and sixteenth aspects, the water type estimation means may also use the user-input information to estimate the water type. For example, if the user-input information includes information on the properties of the raw water to be treated by the domestic water treatment device (information on the soap used) and the source of the raw water (e.g., a shower room, a kitchen sink, etc.), the water treatment management system can estimate that the raw water is water whose quality repeatedly changes over a short period of time, and more accurately estimate the water type based on, for example, information on the performance change, which is the detected operating state value.

[0096] The user's computer or the home treatment device may be configured to present the user-input information as options, and when the user selects one of the options, the selected option is sent to the water treatment management system as the user-input information. This configuration improves the accuracy of water type estimation while reducing the user's input effort.

[0097] With regard to "capable of delaying performance degradation" in the eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, and twelfth aspects, the water treatment management system of the aspects may further comprise a request receiving means for receiving a request from a user from a computer owned by the user or the household water treatment device, and the information supply means may determine the criteria for "capable of delaying performance degradation" based on the user request. For example, if the user requests that the flow rate per unit time passing through the filter be maintained even if the quality of the water after passing through the filter is significantly deteriorated, the information supply means may provide information on a replacement filter that can maintain a higher absolute value of the flow rate per unit time passing through the filter as the performance degradation, based on the absolute value of the flow rate per unit time passing through the filter.

[0098] On the other hand, with regard to "the quality of treated water can be improved" in the above-mentioned embodiments 14 to 18, the water treatment management system of the embodiment may further include a request receiving means for receiving a request from a user from a computer owned by the user or the household water treatment device, and the information supply means may determine the criteria for "the quality of treated water can be improved" based on the request from the user. For example, if the user requests that the transparency of the water after passing through the filter may be reduced but that the odor of the water be improved, the odor will be used as the standard for the quality of the treated water, and supply water-related information that can improve the odor more than the filter currently in use will be provided.

[0099] Similarly, with regard to "improved in a predetermined parameter" in the 19th aspect, the water treatment management system of this aspect may further include a request receiving means for receiving a request from a user from the user's computer or the home water treatment device, and the information supply means may determine the criteria for "improved in a predetermined parameter" based on the user's request. For example, if the user requests a low value for the parameter related to the clarity of water after passing through the filter, but a high value for the parameter related to the amount of soap contained in the water after passing through the filter, then water-related information corresponding to the water supply location where the predetermined parameter is improved is provided based on the parameter.

[0100] In the eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, and twelfth aspects, the water treatment management system of the aspect may further include a stock filter information receiving means for receiving information (stock filter information) of filters that the user owns but are not in use from the user's computer or the household water treatment device, and the information supply means may be configured to also refer to the stock filter information to provide the filter replacement information. In this case, the information supplying means may provide the filter replacement information only from the stock filter information, or may provide the filter replacement information from the stock filter information and the replacement filter information.

[0101] Here, it is preferable that the stock filter information is linked to ID information (such as a serial number) of each filter. It is also preferable that the information regarding performance changes is linked to the ID information of the corresponding filter. In this way, even if each stock filter is not currently being used, if it was used in the past, it is possible to provide filter replacement information that takes into account information regarding performance changes when each stock filter was in use, thereby improving the accuracy of the information.

[0102] On the other hand, the stock filters and the filters currently in use may each have an information element such as an RFID tag, and the information element may store information about the performance change at the time of the previous use. Even in this case, when the stock filter information receiving means receives the information read from the information element, the same processing as above becomes possible.

[0103] Furthermore, the water treatment management systems of the seventh to nineteenth aspects may retain sanitation management information when the water treatment system is not in use and transmit it to the domestic water treatment system. For example, the domestic water treatment system may maintain the sanitary condition of the system by disinfecting the system with chlorine or periodically circulating the water within the system based on this information. If an event such as water spoilage occurs in the domestic water treatment system, the system may transmit a message to that effect to the management system. This allows the management system to improve and refine sanitation management.

[0104] In the water treatment management systems of the seventh to nineteenth aspects, operational data such as water temperature, water pressure, flow rate, and water quality is stored as information on the filter in use. This data may be of two types: data recommended by a third party such as a filter manufacturer, and data created based on data accumulated in the management system. The data created based on data accumulated in the management system contains operational data under various conditions and environments such as water temperature, water pressure, flow rate, and water quality. The water type is estimated by taking these two types of data into consideration. For example, when there is little data accumulated in the management system and filters are just starting to be distributed, emphasis is placed on the data recommended by a third party such as a filter manufacturer. When there is a lot of data accumulated in the management system and a high accuracy in estimating water type detection can be obtained, emphasis is placed on the data created based on the data accumulated in the management system.

[0105] The water treatment management systems of the seventh to nineteenth aspects may receive one or more of operating status information of the domestic water treatment device, filter performance change information, and sensor acquired information, and provide the information to an external third party. The operating status information includes information on the operating period and operating time, as well as information on the output water pressure and flow rate. The filter performance change information includes performance information such as water quality measured before and after the filter and water pressure changes. The sensor acquired information includes environmental information such as the water pressure and flow rate measured by the sensor in addition to sensor values. For example, by acquiring this data and performing a filtering process to remove abnormal values, etc., and then providing the data to the manufacturer, it is possible to verify how the device will be used in a real environment and its effectiveness, which is extremely advantageous for developing components.

[0106] The water treatment management systems of the seventh to nineteenth aspects can also control at least one component of a household water treatment device, such as a pump or valve, prior to controlling the household water treatment device itself. For example, by directly controlling the pump and valve of a household water treatment device, users of the household water treatment device can obtain appropriately treated water without knowing the device's internals or specific operating procedures. Furthermore, when a component, such as a filter, is worn out, the water treatment management system can detect this and send information to a designated computer, display device, delivery system, etc. so that the necessary component can be delivered in advance. Furthermore, because the management system has knowledge of operating methods based on the latest data, it can always operate using the latest data, and it can detect and predict malfunctions due to changes in data or performance, thereby remotely shutting down the system. Furthermore, the water treatment management system can also control multiple household water treatment devices at once. For example, if an abnormality occurs in a certain type of filter or if a disaster occurs, household water treatment devices that use the filter and water treatment devices located in the disaster area can be controlled in the same way.

[0107] In the water treatment management systems of the seventh to nineteenth aspects, an application interface for providing a window for executing applications using a program for predicting water types, etc., may be provided to an external third party. For example, in a shower system, an external third party can create an application program that changes the water pressure to what the user in each area deems appropriate.

[0108] A twentieth aspect of the present invention is a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water usage location, treats untreated water using at least one type of filter, and supplies treated water to the water usage location, and performs processing to optimize the configuration of the filter unit and the operation of the pump depending on the required water volume and quality received by the domestic water treatment device, the quality of the untreated water, etc.

[0109] In this embodiment, the domestic water treatment device optimizes the configuration of the filter unit and the operation of the pump, and this optimization is performed according to the required water volume, required water quality, the quality of the water before treatment, etc., so that it can be used in a variety of regions.

[0110] The 21st aspect of the present invention is related to the 20th aspect. The household water treatment device according to this aspect includes: a raw water inlet; a filter unit through which the untreated water entering from the untreated water inlet passes; a pump disposed upstream or downstream of the filter unit and configured to introduce the untreated water into the filter unit; a treated water outlet from which treated water that has been treated by passing through the filter unit is discharged, the filter unit has a first filter and a second filter, The pump further includes a control unit that controls the pump and the valve unit.

[0111] In the above aspect, it is preferable that the filter unit has a valve unit that can switch between a first flow state in which the untreated water is circulated only through the first filter, and a second flow state in which the untreated water is circulated within the filter unit via a route different from the first flow state.

[0112] The first filter 11 and the second filter 12 may be the same or the same type, or may be different types, and are not necessarily different types. For example, even if the first filter 11 and the second filter 12 are the same or the same type, the valve unit can be used to switch between a first flow state in which only the first filter 11 passes through, a second flow state in which the first filter 11 passes through the second filter 12, and a third flow state in which untreated water flows through the first filter 11 and the second filter 12 in parallel. This allows for changes in the treatment capacity (treatment speed) and pump output in each flow state, thereby reducing pump output and thereby saving power and preserving the second filter 12. Depending on the type of filter, performance may deteriorate even if not used subsequently due to recent growth, etc., after one use. However, by preserving the second filter 12 as much as possible, for example, it is possible to delay the timing of filter unit maintenance.

[0113] In the above aspect, preferably, the first and second filters each have an information element (such as an RFID tag) or information display (such as a two-dimensional code) that stores in-use filter type identification information that identifies the type of the in-use filter, such as its type, specifications, product number, and name, and the household water treatment device further comprises a reading means that reads the in-use filter type identification information from the information element or information display of the first and second filters attached to the household water treatment device, and a compatibility determination means that determines whether the in-use filter type identification information read by the reading means is compatible with the household water treatment device.

[0114] Therefore, if a filter not intended for use with the household water treatment device is installed as the first filter, it can be determined that the filter is incompatible. For example, this determination is made when a user installs a different filter of their own volition. The first filter and second filter each have their own roles, and it is preferable to select the most suitable type and combination of filters as possible to ensure the functionality and durability of the filter unit.

[0115] Furthermore, since the function and durability of a filter unit made up of multiple filters cannot be easily estimated from the individual filters that make it up, it is desirable to combine filter units that are backed up by experience and data. This aspect is extremely useful for maintaining the function and durability of each filter and filter unit in good condition. For example, if the attached first filter does not have the information element or information display, the reading cannot be performed and the filter is determined to be incompatible.

[0116] Since it is equipped with a valve unit that can switch between a first flow state and a second flow state, for example, when the required processing speed is high and the required water quality is low, the first flow state can be used in which the untreated water passes only through the first filter, and when the required water quality is high, the state can be changed so that the untreated water passes through both the first filter and the second filter, allowing for flexible response depending on the required processing speed and quality.

[0117] In a 21st aspect, the household water treatment device preferably further comprises an operating state detection means for detecting an operating state detection value relating to a performance degradation of all or part of the filter unit, and an operating state information output means for outputting the detected operating state detection value or operating state information based on the detected operating state detection value to at least one of a display device and a voice generating device provided in the household water treatment device, or to an external device, such as an information receiving unit of the water treatment device management system or a computer owned by a user, and also including the external devices described below.

[0118] In the 21st aspect, the domestic water treatment device more preferably further comprises a reference water distribution means for flowing reference water through all or part of the filter unit, the reference water distribution means being configured to flow the treated water through all or part of the filter unit, or to flow external reference water supplied from outside the domestic water treatment device through all or part of the filter unit, and the operating state detection means being configured to detect the operating state detection value while the reference water is flowing through all or part of the filter unit by the reference water distribution means.

[0119] Since the operating state detection value is detected by flowing reference water, quantitative detection can be performed. In addition, when treated water is used as the reference water, there is an advantage that quantitative measurement can be performed any number of times without replenishing the reference water.

[0120] In a 21st aspect, the operating condition detection means of the household water treatment device preferably detects, as the operating condition detection value, one or a combination of the water pressure of all or part of the filter unit, the flow rate of water exiting all or part of the filter unit, the turbidity of water exiting all or part of the filter unit, the odor of water exiting all or part of the filter unit, and the electrical conductivity of the untreated water. In other words, the operating condition detection value indicates what kind of water quality is being used, at what pressure or flow rate the water of that quality is being used, at what flow rate or pressure, etc.

[0121] In the 21st aspect, the operating state detection means of the domestic water treatment device more preferably controls the pump so as to be in a predetermined operating state when detecting the operating state detection value. The operating state detection value can be detected in a predetermined operating state, which is advantageous for quantitative detection.

[0122] In the 21st aspect, the domestic water treatment device preferably further comprises a performance change information output means for creating performance change information by correlating the operating state detection value or the operating state information with the treated water volume of all or part of the filter unit, and outputting the created performance change information to at least one of a display device and a sound generating device provided in the domestic water treatment device, or to an external device.

[0123] In the 21st aspect, preferably, the household water treatment device stores in its memory device, as in-use filter information, in-use filter performance degradation standard information that indicates how the entire or part of the filter unit being used will deteriorate depending on the amount of water treated by all or part of the filter unit, for each of a plurality of types of standard untreated water, and further comprises a water type estimation means for estimating the water type of the untreated water based at least on the in-use filter performance degradation standard information and / or information on performance changes (the operating state detection value, the operating state information, or the performance change information).

[0124] In the 21st aspect, another example of the water type estimation means is configured to estimate the water type based on one or a combination of the water pressure of the entire or part of the filter unit, the flow rate of water exiting the entire or part of the filter unit, the turbidity of water exiting the entire or part of the filter unit, the odor of water exiting the entire or part of the filter unit, and the electrical conductivity of the untreated water, which are detected as the operating state detection values.

[0125] In the 21st aspect, as yet another example of a water type estimation means, a memory device stores, as in-use filter information, at least one of in-use filter type identification information that identifies the type of all or part of the filter unit, such as the filter type, specifications, product number, and name, and in-use filter function identification information that indicates the functions and performance of all or part of the filter unit, and is provided with a water type estimation means that estimates the water type of the untreated water based on information regarding the performance change and / or the in-use filter information.

[0126] In a 21st aspect, the second filter is a filter that produces the treated water using, for example, a reverse osmosis membrane (RO membrane), the first filter is a filter that removes foreign matter (here meaning things other than water) that is coarser than the second filter from the water flowing into the first filter, the first filter is used to filter the water flowing into the second filter, and the reference water distribution means is configured to supply the reference water to the filter unit while controlling the valve unit so that the water flowing through the filter unit by the pump passes only through the second filter without passing through the first filter.

[0127] In a 21st aspect, the second filter is a filter that produces the treated water using, for example, a reverse osmosis membrane (RO membrane), the first filter is a filter that removes foreign matter (here meaning things other than water) that is coarser than that of the second filter from the water flowing into the first filter, and the first filter is used to filter the water flowing into the second filter, and the reference water distribution means is configured to supply the reference water to the filter unit for a predetermined time or a predetermined flow rate while controlling the valve unit so that the water flowing through the filter unit by the pump passes through the first filter and then the second filter, and then supply the reference water to the filter unit while controlling the valve unit so that the water flowing through the filter unit by the pump passes only through the second filter without passing through the first filter.

[0128] Since a state in which the reference water flows only through the second filter is created, all water from the pump flows through the second filter, which is advantageous for quantitatively detecting the performance of the second filter. Furthermore, since the water that has flowed through the first filter for a predetermined time flows through the second filter before the reference water flows only through the second filter, even if untreated water that should be treated by the first filter remains in front of or inside the filter unit, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the performance of the second filter due to the residual water directly entering the filter unit.

[0129] In the 21st aspect, preferably, the household water treatment device stores, in its memory device, replacement filter information, which indicates how at least one replacement filter that can replace all or part of the filter unit in use will deteriorate depending on the amount of water being treated, for each of a plurality of types of standard untreated water, and further includes an information output means that references at least the filter unit in use performance deterioration reference information and the replacement filter performance deterioration reference information, or at least references information regarding performance changes and the replacement filter performance deterioration reference information, and if there is a replacement filter that can delay performance deterioration for the water type estimated by the water type estimation means more than the entire or part of the filter unit in use, outputs filter replacement information including information about the filter to at least one of a display device and a sound generating device provided in the household water treatment device, or to an external device.

[0130] In the 21st aspect, preferably, the household water treatment device stores in its memory device, as the filter information in use, at least one of filter type identification information in use that identifies the type of all or part of the filter unit, such as the filter type, specifications, product number, and name, and filter function identification information in use that indicates the functions and performance of the all or part of the filter unit, and as replacement filter information, replacement filter performance degradation standard information that shows how at least one replacement filter that can replace all or part of the filter unit in use will deteriorate according to the amount of water to be treated, for each of multiple types of standard untreated water.The household water treatment device further includes an information output means that references either or both of the filter type identification information in use and the filter function identification information in use, and the performance degradation standard information for the replacement filter, or references information regarding performance changes and the performance degradation standard information for the replacement filter, and if there is a replacement filter that can delay performance degradation compared to the all or part of the filter unit in use for the water type estimated by the water type estimation means, outputs filter replacement information including information about the filter to at least one of a display device and a sound generating device provided in the household water treatment device, or to an external device.

[0131] In a 21st aspect, the domestic water treatment device preferably includes a component control means for controlling at least one of the pump and the valve included in the filter unit based on the estimation result of the water type estimation means. For example, if the electrical conductivity of the untreated water is detected as the operating state detection value, and the water type estimation means estimates the water type in real time based on this detection value, and the untreated water is wastewater from a shower room and the concentration of soap or shampoo changes over time, it is possible to change the pump output in accordance with the change in concentration, or to switch valves in accordance with the change in concentration to change the combination of filters through which the untreated water passes.

[0132] In the 21st aspect, preferably, the domestic water treatment device has in its memory device information on at least one water supply location that can supply untreated water, and the information on the water supply location has in-use filter performance degradation standard information that indicates, for the untreated water at each water supply location, how all or part of the filter unit being used will deteriorate depending on the amount of water treated by all or part of the filter unit, and the domestic water treatment device further has an information output means that references the water supply location information and, if there is untreated water that can slow the performance degradation of all or part of the filter unit compared to the current untreated water estimated based on the information on the performance change, outputs supplied water-related information including information on the filter to at least one of a display device and an audio generating device provided in the domestic water treatment device, or to an external device.

[0133] In the 21st aspect, preferably, the household water treatment device has in its memory device information on at least one water supply location that can supply untreated water, and the information on the water supply location includes at least one of in-use filter type identification information that identifies the type of all or part of the filter unit, such as the type of filter, specifications, product number, name, etc., and in-use filter function identification information that indicates the functions and performance of all or part of the filter unit, and in-use filter evaluation comparison information that matches the evaluation value for the untreated water at each water treatment location, and further includes an information output means that references the water supply location information and information on performance changes, and, if there is untreated water that can slow the performance degradation of all or part of the filter unit more slowly than the rate of performance degradation estimated based on the information on performance changes for the current untreated water, outputs supplied water-related information including information on the filter to at least one of a display device and a sound generating device provided in the household water treatment device, or to an external device.

[0134] In a 21st aspect, preferably, the household water treatment device has information on at least one water supply location to which untreated water can be supplied, in its memory device, and the information on the water supply location includes at least one of in-use filter type identification information that identifies the type of all or part of the filter unit, such as the type, specifications, product number, and name of the filter, and in-use filter function identification information that indicates the function, performance, etc. of all or part of the filter unit, in-use filter evaluation comparison information that corresponds an evaluation value for the untreated water at each water treatment location, and replacement filter information that identifies the type of all or part of a replacement filter unit that can be replaced with the filter unit, such as the type, specifications, product number, and name of the filter. The household water treatment device further includes an information output means that refers to the in-use filter evaluation comparison information and the replacement filter evaluation comparison information of the water supply location information, and if there is a combination of the water supply location and the replacement filter or the in-use filter that meets a predetermined standard, outputs information regarding the combination as supply water-related information to at least one of a display device and a sound generating device provided in the household water treatment device, or to an external device.

[0135] In a 21st aspect, the domestic water treatment device preferably further comprises a request receiving means for receiving a request from a user, and is configured to determine the predetermined criteria based on the request from the user. For example, if a user requests an improvement in water treatment speed even if it means a slight decrease in water quality, and there is a combination of a water supply location and a filter in use or a combination of a water supply location and a replacement filter that satisfies the request, that combination is output. The combination output does not have to be one, and three combinations can also be transmitted: a combination of water supply location 1 and the filter in use, a combination of water supply location 1 and replacement filter 1, and a combination of water supply location 2 and replacement filter 2.

[0136] In the above-mentioned aspect, it is also possible to add evaluation information related to the request from the user, in which case the user can compare the evaluation information and make a selection. The evaluation information can include information on the treatment speed obtained by each combination, predicted data on the quality of the treated water, information on functions such as the rate at which the filter performance deteriorates, and information on replacement costs.

[0137] In the 21st aspect, preferably, the household water treatment device includes, in its memory device, as in-use filter information, treated water quality standard information for all or part of the in-use filter unit for each of a plurality of types of standard pre-treatment water, and as replacement filter information, treated water quality standard information for all or part of a replacement filter unit that can be replaced with the in-use filter unit for each of the plurality of types of standard pre-treatment water, and further includes an information output means that refers to the in-use filter information and the replacement filter information, or refers to information regarding performance changes and the replacement filter information, and if there is a replacement filter unit that can improve the quality of the treated water more than the whole or part of the in-use filter unit for the water type estimated by the water type estimation means, outputs filter replacement information including information about the filter to at least one of a display device and a sound generating device provided in the household water treatment device, or to an external device.

[0138] In the 21st aspect, preferably, the household water treatment device includes in its memory device at least one of in-use filter type identification information that identifies the type of all or part of the in-use filter unit, such as the type of filter, specifications, product number, and name, and in-use filter function identification information that indicates the functions and performance of all or part of the in-use filter unit, as the in-use filter information, and in-use filter function identification information that is data predicting the quality of water treated by all or part of the replacement filter unit for each of multiple types of standard pre-treatment water, and further includes an information output means that references either or both of the in-use filter type identification information and the in-use filter function identification information, and the in-use filter function identification information, and the in-use filter function identification information, or references information regarding performance changes and the in-use filter function identification information, and if there is a replacement filter unit that can improve the quality of the treated water more than the in-use filter unit for the water type estimated by the water type estimation means, outputs filter replacement information including information about the filter to at least one of a display device and a sound generating device provided in the household water treatment device, or to an external device.

[0139] In the 21st aspect, preferably, the household water treatment device includes, in its memory device, replacement filter information, which is post-treatment water quality standard information for all or part of a replacement filter unit that can be replaced with the filter unit in use for each of multiple types of standard pre-treatment water, and further includes an information output means that references the post-treatment water quality standard information for the replacement filter unit, and if there is a replacement filter unit in whole or in part that can improve the quality of the post-treatment water more than the whole or part of the filter unit in use for the water type estimated by the water type estimation means, outputs filter replacement information including information about the filter to at least one of a display device and an audio generating device provided in the household water treatment device, or to an external device.

[0140] In the 21st aspect, preferably, the domestic water treatment device has in its memory device information on at least one water supply location that can supply untreated water, and the information on the water supply location includes treated water quality standard information, which is quality prediction data for treated water by all or part of the filter units in use for the untreated water at each water supply location, and the domestic water treatment device further includes an information output means that refers to the treated water quality standard information and, if there is untreated water that can improve the quality of the treated water compared to the water quality after the untreated water is treated by all or part of the filter units in use, outputs supply water-related information corresponding to the untreated water to at least one of a display device and an audio generating device provided in the domestic water treatment device, or to an external device.

[0141] In the 21st aspect, preferably, the household water treatment device has in its memory device information on at least one water supply location where pre-treated water can be supplied, and the information on the water supply location includes at least one of in-use filter type identification information that identifies the type of all or part of the filter unit, such as the type of filter, specifications, product number, name, etc., and in-use filter function identification information that indicates the functions and performance of all or part of the filter unit, and in-use filter evaluation comparison information that matches the evaluation value for the pre-treated water at each water treatment location, and further includes an information output means that references the water supply location information and information regarding performance changes, and outputs supply water-related information corresponding to the pre-treated water to at least one of a display device and a voice generating device provided in the household water treatment device, or to an external device, if there is pre-treated water that can improve the quality of treated water compared to the water quality after the pre-treated water is treated by all or part of the in-use filter unit.

[0142] In the 21st aspect, preferably, the domestic water treatment device has information on at least one water supply location that can supply untreated water in its memory device, and is equipped with a detection means for detecting information regarding the quality of water after passing through the filter in use, and the information on the water supply location includes treated water quality standard information, which is quality prediction data for treated water by all or part of the filter unit in use for untreated water at each water supply location, and further comprises an information output means that refers to the water supply location information and the information regarding the quality of the passed water, and if there is a water supply location where the quality of the water after passing through the filter unit in use is improved by predetermined parameters compared to the quality of the passed water, outputs supplied water-related information corresponding to the water supply location to at least one of a display device and an audio generating device provided in the domestic water treatment device, or to an external device.

[0143] The household water treatment device of the 21st aspect may be configured to accept and store user-input information entered by the user from a user's computer, an input unit of the household water treatment device, or the like. The user may enter information related to the device configuration or data used for estimating water type as the user-input information, and the information may be stored in the household water treatment device. For example, if the user notifies the household water treatment device in advance that the water will be used for showering at the water usage location, the household water treatment device can improve the accuracy of predictions of how the water type will change over time, enabling more optimal operation.

[0144] In the domestic water treatment device of the twenty-first aspect, the water type estimation means may also use the user input information to estimate the water type. The user may be configured to display the user-entered information as options on a display or input unit of the user's computer or the household water treatment device, and when the user selects one of the options, the selected option is stored as the user-entered information in the household water treatment device. This configuration improves the accuracy of water type estimation while reducing the user's input effort.

[0145] Regarding the "ability to delay performance degradation" in the 21st aspect, the domestic water treatment device of this aspect may further include a request receiving means for receiving requests from a user from a computer owned by the user or an input unit of the domestic water treatment device, and may determine the criteria for "ability to delay performance degradation" based on the request from the user.

[0146] On the other hand, with regard to the "ability to improve the quality of treated water" in the 21st aspect, the domestic water treatment device of this aspect may also be provided with a request receiving means for receiving requests from the user from a computer owned by the user or an input unit of the domestic water treatment device, and the criteria for "ability to improve the quality of treated water" may be determined based on the request from the user.

[0147] Similarly, with regard to "improved in specified parameters" in the 21st aspect, the domestic water treatment device of this aspect may further include a request receiving means for receiving requests from the user from a computer owned by the user or an input unit of the domestic water treatment device, and the criteria for "improved in specified parameters" may be determined based on the request from the user.

[0148] In the 21st aspect, the domestic water treatment device of this aspect may further include a stock filter information receiving means for receiving information (stock filter information) of filters that the user owns and that are not in use from the user's computer or an input unit of the domestic water treatment device, and may be configured to provide the filter replacement information by also referring to the stock filter information.

[0149] Here, it is preferable that the stock filter information is linked to ID information (such as a serial number) of each filter. It is also preferable that the information regarding performance changes is linked to the ID information of the corresponding filter. In this way, even if each stock filter is not currently being used, if it was used in the past, it is possible to provide filter replacement information that takes into account information regarding performance changes when each stock filter was in use, thereby improving the accuracy of the information.

[0150] On the other hand, the stock filters and the filters currently in use may each have an information element such as an RFID tag, and the information element may store information about the performance change at the time of the previous use. Even in this case, when the stock filter information receiving means receives the information read from the information element, the same processing as above becomes possible.

[0151] In the 21st aspect, in one example, some or all of the information as the in-use filter information, the information as the replacement filter information, the water type estimation result, and the information as the water supply location information are received from the water treatment device management system of aspects 1 to 13 and stored in a memory device.

[0152] Since the information is sent to the domestic water treatment device from the water treatment device management system, which contains a wide variety of useful information, and stored therein, even in an environment where communication with the water treatment device management system is not possible, user convenience can be improved in the same way as when information is received from the water treatment device management system.

[0153] In the 21st aspect, the memory device stores replacement filter information for a replacement filter unit having a different number of filters from the filter unit currently in use, or replacement filter information for a replacement filter unit that includes a valve unit, an intermediate tank, etc. in addition to a filter, and it is also possible to configure the memory device to output the above information based on the replacement filter information.

[0154] For example, if the filter unit in use has a first filter that removes foreign matter (here meaning things other than water) that is larger than a certain size or length in the water before treatment, and a second filter that removes smaller foreign matter and molecules from the water after treatment with the first filter, the replacement filter information can also provide the above information about a replacement filter that has the first filter, the second filter, and an intermediate tank in which water that has passed through the first filter is stored.

[0155] Because the second filter tends to have a slower water treatment speed than the first filter, the presence of the intermediate tank makes it possible to differentiate the treatment speed of the first filter from the treatment speed of the second filter. This makes it possible to set the treatment speed of the second filter to an appropriate speed without being bound by the treatment speed of the first filter, thereby improving the quality of water treated by the second filter and slowing down the deterioration of the performance of the second filter. The replacement filter unit may also include a second filter pump for passing the water in the intermediate tank through the second filter.

[0156] In addition, the replacement filter information can also provide the above information about a replacement filter unit that includes the first filter, the second filter, a first flow path that flows water treated by the first filter to the user side (shower nozzle, faucet, etc.) or a user side storage tank (a tank that supplies water to the shower nozzle, faucet, etc.), a second flow path that flows to the intermediate tank, a detection means that can detect the quality of untreated water flowing into the first filter or water that has passed through the first filter, and a flow path switching means that switches the destination of the water treated by the first filter between the first flow path and the second flow path depending on the detection result of the detection means, and is configured so that water after treatment by the second filter is also supplied to the user side or the user side storage tank.

[0157] As a result, for example, if the measurement result of the electrical conductivity sensor on the untreated water is within a predetermined standard value and the quality of the untreated water is determined to be above a predetermined value, the water treated by the first filter will flow directly to the user side or the user side storage tank via the first flow path. Since the second filter is not always used and the first filter often processes water faster than the second filter, it becomes easier to ensure the amount of water supplied to the user side. On the other hand, if the quality of the untreated water temporarily drops below a predetermined value, for example, the water treated by the first filter will be sent to the intermediate tank, and the water in the intermediate tank will be treated by the second filter. Therefore, even if the quality of the untreated water deteriorates, the quality of the treated water can be maintained. Examples of temporary changes in the quality of untreated water include when treating shower wastewater, kitchen wastewater, and toilet sewage.

[0158] Furthermore, the replacement filter information can also be provided for a replacement filter unit having a sludge filter that is located upstream of the first filter and removes sludge from the untreated water, or for a replacement filter unit that has the sludge filter instead of the first filter. In this case, having the information for multiple types of replacement filter units that have various sludge filters further improves user convenience.

[0159] Furthermore, the replacement filter information can also be provided for a replacement filter unit having a biological filter that is located upstream of the first filter and treats the untreated water using organisms, or for a replacement filter unit that has the biological filter instead of the first filter. In this case, having the information for multiple types of replacement filter units with various sludge filters further improves user convenience.

[0160] In the 21st aspect, the household water treatment device may further include an additive component storage unit that stores one or more additive components, an additive component supplying means that supplies the additive components from the additive component storage unit to the treated water, and an additive component control unit that controls the additive component supplying means in accordance with the water quality request. For example, in a mineral addition system having a water quality request receiving unit that receives a user's water quality request, these components can provide hard water or soft water according to the user's preferences, or water containing nutrients (mineral components) according to the user's request. Furthermore, the shelf life of water can be extended by injecting chlorine, hypochlorous acid, or the like to disinfect it.

[0161] In addition, in the 21st aspect, the domestic water treatment device may further include a water quality request receiving unit that receives a water quality request from a user, a mineral component storage unit that stores one or more types of mineral components, a mineral component supply means that supplies the mineral components in the mineral component storage unit to the treated water, and a mineral component control unit that controls the mineral component supply means in accordance with the water quality request. This makes it possible to provide hard water or soft water according to the user's preference, and to provide water containing nutrients (mineral components) according to the user's request.

[0162] A 22nd aspect of the present invention is a water treatment system that uses at least one type of filter to treat pre-treatment water (various types of wastewater such as shower wastewater, toilet wastewater, laundry wastewater, cooking wastewater, dishwashing wastewater, and washroom wastewater) and supplies the treated water to a water inlet (various types of water inlet such as a shower head or faucet), The untreated water is treated using the domestic water treatment device of the twentieth or twenty-first aspect, and the treated water is supplied to the water supply port.

[0163] In a 22nd aspect, the water treatment system preferably has a treated water use main body section into which a user enters and uses treated water from the water supply inlet, and a display device or audio generating device is provided within the treated water use main body section, for example in a position visible to the user, to display or report the quality of the treated water being supplied by the domestic water treatment device or the treated water that is to be supplied. This allows users to check the condition of the water they are using, so they can use water with peace of mind. Also, since each user has different preferences, users will know the water quality they desire, and this will serve as an indicator for replacing or improving the filter unit.

[0164] In the 22nd aspect, the water treatment system preferably has a treated water use main body part into which a user enters and uses treated water from the water supply inlet, and the treated water use main body part and the domestic water treatment device are configured to be detachably connected. In this embodiment, the treated water-using main body and the household water treatment device are detachably connected, so that, for example, the household water treatment device can be removed and the treated water can be used for other purposes, making it possible to determine the number of household water treatment devices required for each household as desired.In addition, it is also possible to take the household water treatment device to a temporary location and use it there.

[0165] In the 22nd aspect, the water treatment system preferably includes at least one connecting pipe containing a pre-treated water piping for sending pre-treated water from the treated water-using main body to the domestic water treatment device, a treated water piping for sending treated water from the domestic water treatment device to the body wash main body, and a communication line connecting the treated water-using main body and the domestic water treatment device, and one end of the connecting pipe is removably connected to the treated water-using main body, and the other end of the connecting pipe is removably connected to the domestic water treatment device, thereby allowing the treated water-using main body and the domestic water treatment device to be removably connected.

[0166] In this embodiment, a single connecting pipe contains the untreated water piping, the treated water piping, and the communication line, and the treated water using main body unit and the domestic water treatment device can be connected simply by connecting one end and the other end of the connecting pipe to the treated water using main body unit and the domestic water treatment device, which is advantageous in improving user convenience.

[0167] Furthermore, a power supply cable may be provided in the single connecting pipe together with or instead of the communication line. In this case, for example, if the household water treatment device has a battery, when the other end of the connecting pipe is detachably connected to the household water treatment device as described above, power from the battery is supplied to the treated water use main body of the household water treatment device via the power supply cable of the connecting pipe, and the lights and various electrical devices of the treated water use main body will operate even if the treated water use main body does not have a battery. Conversely, if the treated water use main body has a power supply source such as a battery, the household water treatment device can operate without using the power that the household water treatment device has.

[0168] The treated water-using main unit may also store information about the operating method of the domestic water treatment device and data used for the water type estimation. For example, if a treated water-using main unit is located in a desert region or the like and discharges shower wastewater as untreated water, where the untreated water contains a large amount of sand, information about the pump operating speed (output) may be stored as information about the operating method, depending on the specific circumstances, and data indicating the type and content of sand as data used for the water type estimation. For example, data about past wastewater (such as detection results regarding water quality using an electrical conductivity sensor or the like, detection results using an odor sensor, and their changes over time) may be stored as data used for the water type estimation.

[0169] The system may also store operational information about the treated water-using main unit. For example, if a showerhead equipped with sensors such as a flow rate sensor, water quality sensor, and acceleration sensor is used, time-series data about these sensors can be stored in the household water treatment device or the treated water-using main unit. Knowing the actual usage conditions in a real-world environment is extremely useful in developing a showerhead.

[0170] The treated water-using main unit may also include components such as sensors related to water temperature and water quality, dedicated pumps, and other components, and may store information on recommended component control methods and data used for the water type estimation. For example, if the treated water-using main unit is part of a shower system equipped with a scale, image sensor, thermography, and a dedicated pump for outputting a predetermined flow rate and water pressure from the shower head, information on the number and type of these sensors and actuators and their usage methods can be communicated to the household water treatment device via the connecting pipe, enabling appropriate component selection and operating method selection. For example, if the shower head manufacturer recommends a desired flow rate and water pressure, but the pump in the household water treatment device cannot achieve these values, a dedicated pump installed in the treated water-using main unit can meet these requirements. Furthermore, an image sensor can output and store body shape data each time the user takes a shower. Based on this information, the user can check changes in their body shape over time and compare it with other people's shapes, contributing to improving their health. Furthermore, by detecting cold areas of the body using thermography and notifying the user, the user can concentrate hot water on the cold areas of the body, improving the user's comfort. Note that the cold areas may be sent to a control unit, and the shower head may automatically concentrate the shower on the cold areas.

[0171] The stored information on the operating method and data used for estimating the water type can be sent to the household water treatment device by connecting the connecting pipe. Alternatively, regardless of whether or not the connecting pipe is connected, the information can be sent wirelessly from the treated water use main unit to the household water treatment device or a user's computer. This allows the household water treatment device to adapt to the specific conditions of the treated water-using main body, which is extremely advantageous in maintaining the function and lifespan of the filter and pump.

[0172] Furthermore, the treated water using main body may be configured to transmit information about the operating method and data used for the water type estimation to the water treatment management system. In this case, the water treatment management system will be able to add the information and data and have the information supply means create and transmit the various types of information.

[0173] In addition, by sending type identification information, function identification information, etc. of the filter (filter unit) in use, type identification information, function identification information of the pump in use, etc. of the domestic water treatment device from the domestic water treatment device or the user's terminal to the water treatment management system, and sending information about temporary stay locations, it is possible for the treated water use main body unit to receive the various types of information from the information supply means. In this case, it is possible to change the configuration of the filter, pump, etc. of the domestic water treatment device in advance so that it is suitable for the temporary stay location before going to the temporary stay location.

[0174] It is preferable that the connecting portion of the treated water-using main body to which the connecting pipe is connected has a common shape and specifications. In other words, it is preferable that not only the connecting portion of the treated water-using main body, but also the connecting portions of other treated water-using main bodies have the same shape and specifications. On the other hand, it is preferable that the connecting portion at the end of the connecting pipe connected to the treated water-using main body is also configured to fit the common connecting portion. This allows users to use various treated water-using main bodies using the connecting line that houses the water piping and the power supply cable or communication line, thereby improving user convenience.

[0175] A 23rd aspect of the present invention is a water treatment system that uses at least one type of filter to treat untreated water (various types of wastewater such as shower wastewater, toilet wastewater, laundry wastewater, cooking wastewater, dishwashing wastewater, and washroom wastewater) and supplies the treated water to a water inlet (various types of water inlet such as a shower head or faucet), At least one treated water use room where a user enters and uses treated water from the water supply port; a locking means for locking the door of each of the post-body treatment water use rooms; The system has an unlocking information providing means that receives application information from a user's computer or an input device provided in the water treatment system, and sends unlocking information to the corresponding locking mechanism to unlock the door of a specified treated water use room during at least the time period corresponding to the application information.

[0176] In this embodiment, it is possible to create an environment in which a water treatment system placed in a shared space or the like can only be used by specific users. In other words, since use is not possible unless permission is granted from the computer in response to a use application, for example, unregistered persons cannot use the water treatment system without permission, and only registered persons can utilize the water treatment system. In other words, it is also possible to have a system in which maintenance costs are shared among registered persons or a fee is charged each time the system is used.

[0177] In the 23rd aspect, the water treatment system preferably has a usage status information storage means for storing usage status information of the treated water use room each time the treated water use room is used, and the usage status information is data corresponding to at least the usage time and amount of water used with the user who used the room. In this aspect, the usage status of each user can be grasped, so that it becomes possible to implement progressive charges according to the usage status, to call the user's attention regarding the usage status, and so on.

[0178] The 20th to 23rd aspects of the household water treatment device or water treatment system preferably include a first pipe through which water of a first quality flows, a second pipe arranged alongside the first pipe through which water of a second quality flows, and a pipe body that houses the first and second pipes together, wherein the pipe walls of the first and second pipes further include piping members formed from an expandable material such as rubber, and the first and second pipes are configured to expand within the pipe body as water flows through them.

[0179] In this embodiment, the first and second pipes are combined into one by the pipe body, and whether water flows through the first and second pipes or not, the thickness and shape of the pipe body itself do not change, which makes it easier for users to make changes to the pipes, etc.

[0180] A 24th aspect of the present invention is a water treatment device management system for managing a domestic water treatment device that treats untreated water and supplies treated water to the water use location using a filter unit that is arranged at or near a water use location and has at least one filter, and a pump that sends water to the filter during use, comprising: a filter information storage unit that stores information on filter units currently in use in the household water treatment device; The water treatment device further includes an information supplying unit that transmits information about a method of operating the pump to the water treatment device based at least on the information about the filter unit in use stored in the filter information storage unit.

[0181] In addition, in the above aspect, the information supply means is configured to transmit information regarding an operating method of the pump that is suitable for delaying performance deterioration of the filter in use, based at least on the information of the filter unit in use.

[0182] Each filter unit has an allowable water pressure and water volume, and among these, a water pressure and water volume point that extends the unit's lifespan. These points vary depending on the type of filter unit, i.e., the type and combination of individual filters that make up the filter unit, as well as the size. Meanwhile, household water treatment devices are used in different locations, for different purposes, and produce different types of untreated water. For this reason, even if two household water treatment devices use the same filter unit and use the same pump with the same output to pump water through the filter unit, the water pressure applied to the filter unit will be different. In this case, if the household water treatment device is equipped with a pressure sensor that detects the water pressure applied to all or part of the filter unit, information regarding the operating method will be transmitted so that the detected water pressure falls within a predetermined range.

[0183] Therefore, in one example, the water treatment device management system can store data on the appropriate water pressure range or appropriate water volume range for each of multiple types of filter units in a memory device, and can transmit information regarding the operating method based on that data. [Effects of the Invention]

[0184] According to the present invention, it is possible to respond to sudden increases and decreases in population without large-scale construction work, and it is possible to treat wastewater and supply water for use even in areas with limited water resources. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0185] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a water treatment device management system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a domestic water treatment device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3]4 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by a control unit of the domestic water treatment device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram of a water treatment device management system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram of a water treatment system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram of a control unit of a domestic water treatment device according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram of a home water treatment device according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 1. FIG. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram of a modified example of a home water treatment device used in the water treatment device management system according to the embodiment of FIG. [Figure 9] 9 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the domestic water treatment device of FIG. 8. FIG. [Figure 10] 9 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the domestic water treatment device of FIG. 8. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0186] A home water treatment device according to a first embodiment of the present invention and a water treatment device management system for managing the same will be described below with reference to the drawings. As shown in Figure 2, this household water treatment device comprises, for example, a raw water inlet 1, a filter unit 10 through which the raw water entering through the raw water inlet 1 passes, a pump 20 arranged upstream or downstream of the filter unit 10 and introducing the raw water into the filter unit 10, and a treated water outlet 2 through which treated water that has passed through the filter unit 10 exits.The filter unit 10 has at least a first filter 11, a second filter 12 of a different type from the first filter, and a valve unit that can switch between a first flow state in which the raw water is circulated only through the first filter 11 and a second flow state in which the raw water is circulated within the filter unit 10 via a route different from the first flow state, and further comprises a control unit 30 that controls the pump 20 and the filter unit 10.

[0187] The control unit 30 consists of a computer having a CPU, a memory device, a display device, a transceiver, etc., and ideally the memory device of the control unit 30 stores all of the information described below (information on filters in use, information on replacement filters, information on water supply locations) stored in the memory device of the water treatment management system described below, but it is also possible for it to only store some of the information.

[0188] In this embodiment, the pump 20 is located upstream of the filter unit 10, but it is also possible to locate the pump 20 downstream of the filter unit 10. This domestic water treatment device is placed at or near a point of water use, treats raw water using the filter unit 10, and supplies treated water to the point of water use.

[0189] Specifically, places where water is used include places where body washing equipment such as shower rooms, bathrooms, hand washing areas, foot washing areas, and animal body washing areas are located, places where clothing washing equipment such as washing machines and laundry utensils are located, places where excrement disposal equipment such as toilets are located, places where food and dish washing equipment such as kitchens are located, and places where water supply equipment for providing drinking water, cooking water, etc. is located, as well as various other places where water is used.

[0190] Shower rooms, bathrooms, washing machine rooms, toilets, kitchens, water supply equipment, etc. may be used by a small number of people, such as one or two people, at a time, or by a large number of people, such as ten or more people, at a time. These may be installed inside a house, or may be temporarily installed outdoors near a house or outdoors, such as at a campsite, away from a house.

[0191] Specifically, untreated water includes water that has been used at the water usage location, and naturally collected water such as water from rivers, swamps, lakes, and oceans, well water, rainwater, etc. In addition to these, water that has been treated through a filter before being used is also considered untreated water. Supplying treated water to the water usage location includes supplying treated water to a water supply port such as a faucet within the water usage location, and supplying treated water to equipment such as body washing equipment, clothing washing equipment, excrement processing equipment, and food and tableware washing equipment located at the water usage location.

[0192] A household water treatment device may be installed in one house, in two or more houses, or in one house with multiple units. For this reason, they may be installed in apartment buildings. Furthermore, if a household water treatment device is designed to be large and light enough to be portable, it can be easily moved by providing it with wheels or other means for easy transportation. Such portable household water treatment devices are also used at campsites, travel destinations, temporary stays, etc., and are placed at or near the water usage locations at campsites, travel destinations, and other temporary stay locations. The domestic water treatment device is not limited to use in homes, but can also be used in commercial establishments such as restaurants.

[0193] The raw water inlet 1 is connected to a location where the raw water is present by a pipe such as a hose. As the pump 20, various types of well-known water pumps can be used. As an example, the first filter 11 is a filter for removing foreign matter (here meaning anything other than water) of a predetermined size or length or more from the water before treatment, such as garbage, stones, soil, sand, sludge, hair, dirt, excrement, and food, and the second filter 12 can be a filter using a reverse osmosis membrane (RO membrane) that also removes metal molecules and pesticide molecules from the water before treatment. Note that the first filter 11 and the second filter 12 can be other filters depending on the application and requirements. It is also possible to provide three or more filters instead of two, or to provide only one filter using a reverse osmosis membrane. A filter using a reverse osmosis membrane is generally a device that passes raw water through the membrane and produces clean water and water with concentrated impurities, so the function and detailed illustration of the filter will be omitted.

[0194] The valve unit includes a first pipe 51 for distributing water from the pump 20 to the inlet of the first filter 12, a first three-way valve 41 provided on the first pipe 51 and switchable between a first state for distributing water flowing through the first pipe 51 to the inlet of the first filter 11 and a second state for distributing water toward the inlet of the second filter 12, a second pipe 52 through which water flows from the first three-way valve 41 toward the inlet of the second filter 12, a third pipe 53 for distributing water coming out of the outlet of the first filter 11 toward the treated water outlet 2, a fourth pipe 54 connecting the middle of the second pipe 52 and the middle of the third pipe 53, and a first pipe 55 for distributing water flowing through the first pipe 51 to the inlet of the second filter 12. The system includes a second three-way valve 42 that can be switched between a first state in which water flowing from the three-way valve 41 into the second pipe 52 is circulated to the inlet of the second filter 12 and a second state in which water is circulated to the fourth pipe 54; a third three-way valve 43 that can be switched between a first state in which water flowing from the outlet of the first filter 11 into the third pipe 43 is circulated to the fourth pipe 54 and a second state in which water is circulated toward the treated water outlet 2; and a fourth three-way valve 44 that can be switched between a first state in which water from the third three-way valve 53 is circulated toward the treated water outlet 2 and a second state in which water from the outlet of the second filter 12 is circulated toward the treated water outlet 2.

[0195] In other words, by controlling the first to fourth three-way valves 41 to 44 with a control unit 50 consisting of a computer, the valve unit can switch between a state in which untreated water passes only through the first filter 11 and flows to the treated water outlet 2, a state in which untreated water passes only through the second filter 12 and flows to the treated water outlet 2, a state in which untreated water passes through the first filter 11 and then the second filter 12 and flows to the treated water outlet 2, and a state in which untreated water flows to the treated water outlet 2 without passing through either the first filter 11 or the second filter 12.

[0196] This household water treatment device also includes a reference water flow path 57 that circulates the treated water flowing from the outlet of the second filter 12 toward the treated water outlet 2 through the raw water piping 55 between the raw water inlet 1 and the pump 20, a fifth three-way valve 45 that can switch between a first state in which raw water from the raw water inlet 1 flows to the pump 20 and a second state in which water from the reference water flow path 57 flows to the pump 20, and a detection means that can detect pressure changes or water volume of water sent by the pump 20, and the control unit 30 is configured to also control the fifth three-way valve 45, and the control unit 30 is configured to perform processes of controlling the fifth three-way valve 45 to the second state and controlling the valve unit so that water from the pump 20 passes only through the second filter 12 and flows toward the treated water outlet 2, and then output the detection result (operating state detection value) of the pressure detection means, operating state information of the second filter 12 based on the detection result, or performance change information of the second filter 12 estimated based on the detection result.

[0197] The detection result, operating state information, and performance change information are information relating to the performance change of the second filter. In addition, in this embodiment, a sixth three-way valve 46 is provided which can be switched between a first state in which treated water heading from the fourth three-way valve 44 to the treated water outlet 2 flows toward the treated water outlet 2, and a second state in which treated water flows toward the reference water flow path 57, but there are cases in which operation is possible without the sixth three-way valve 46. Furthermore, each of the first to sixth three-way valves can be replaced by one or two on-off valves, and can also be replaced by other on-off valves.

[0198] The output includes sending the detection results, operating status information, or performance change information to a predetermined display device for display, or transmitting the information to a water treatment device management system (described later). The display device may be provided in the home water treatment device. The detection means may be one that detects the rotational torque of the pump, or may be a pressure sensor that measures the pressure between the pump 20 and the second filter 12 when the pump 20 is operating in a certain predetermined operating state, or may be a flow rate sensor for water passing through the second filter 12 when the pump 20 is operating in a certain predetermined operating state.

[0199] In this embodiment, a treated water pipe 56 is provided that flows treated water from the fourth three-way valve 44 to a treated water outlet 2, and a flow control valve 2a is provided in the treated water outlet 2 that can adjust the flow rate of the water flowing out to the outside. In this embodiment, a reference water container 57a is provided midway along the reference water flow path 57. Then, while treated water is being supplied from the fourth three-way valve 44 toward the treated water outlet 2, a predetermined amount of reference water can be stored in the reference water container 57a by closing or throttling the flow rate adjustment valve 2a. In addition, in this embodiment, the treated water is stored in the reference water container 57a as reference water, but it is also possible to instead put external reference water such as drinking water into the reference water container 57a through its inlet 57b and use the external reference water as reference water.

[0200] In this embodiment, as the detection means, a pressure sensor 61 is provided in the second pipe 52, and a flow rate sensor 62 is provided in the treated water pipe 56. Furthermore, an electrical conductivity sensor 63 is provided in the untreated water pipe 55, and an odor sensor 64 is provided in the treated water pipe 56.

[0201] With regard to the operating state information, for example, data based on the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 61 or the flow rate detected by the flow rate sensor 62, and the discharge capacity of the pump 20 in the predetermined operating state, which is used as the basis for estimating or calculating the clogging state of the second filter 12, as described above, can be used as the operating state information. In addition, data based on the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 61 or the flow rate detected by the flow rate sensor 62, and other factors, which is used as the basis for estimating or calculating the performance of the second filter 12, can be used as the operating state information.

[0202] An example of the operation of the control unit 30 when the control unit 30 outputs the detection results, operating state information, or performance change information based on the stored program will be described below with reference to FIG. First, when treated water is not being supplied from the treated water outlet 2, the control unit 30 receives a trigger signal by a user operating the control unit 30 or receiving a signal from outside, or when a predetermined time arrives and the treatment start condition is met (step S1), it controls the fifth three-way valve 45 to the second state and also controls the sixth three-way valve 46 to the second state (step S2).

[0203] Next, the first to fourth three-way valves 41 to 44 are controlled to a state in which the untreated water passes through the first filter 11, then the second filter 12, and flows to the treated water outlet 2 (step S3), and the pump 20, which was stopped in this state, is set to the predetermined operating state (step S4). As a result, the reference water in the reference water flow path 57 passes through the first filter 11 and then flows to the second filter 12. When a predetermined time has passed in this state and a criterion is met that only reference water is present between the fifth three-way valve 45 and the first three-way valve 41, such as the supply of reference water at a predetermined flow rate (step S5), the pump 20 is temporarily stopped (step S6).

[0204] Next, the first to fourth three-way valves 41 to 44 are controlled to a state in which the untreated water passes only through the second filter 12 and flows to the treated water outlet 2 (step S7), and in this state the pump 20 is set to the predetermined operating state (step S8). In this state, for example, the detection result of the pressure sensor 61 is stored in memory (step S9). Step S9 is preferably performed after a predetermined time has elapsed since step S8 was performed.

[0205] In step S9, the detection results of the flow rate sensor 62 may be stored instead, or the operating state information based on the detection results may be stored in memory instead of these detection results. When step S9 is performed, the amount of treated water in the second filter 12 is also stored in memory as part of the detection results and operating state information so as to correspond to the detection results and operating state information (step S10).

[0206] It is assumed that steps S1 to S10 have been performed multiple times in the past at intervals, and the detection results have been stored in memory each time. Next, based on the detection results and treated water volume stored in memory over the multiple times, performance change information of the second filter indicating how the performance of the second filter 12 changes with respect to the treated water volume is calculated, and the performance change information is output (step S11).

[0207] In the above example, steps S3 to S6 are performed, which makes it possible to prevent untreated water accumulated in the pump 20, etc. from flowing into the second filter 12. Note that steps S3 to S6 may be omitted depending on conditions such as the quality of the untreated water and the performance of the second filter. In addition, in the above example, performance change information is output in step S11, but it is also possible to output detection results or operating status information that include the treated water volume as part of it instead of performance change information, and it is also possible to output detection results or operating status information that include the treated water volume detected multiple times.

[0208] Next, a water treatment device management system for managing the above-described domestic water treatment device will be described. As shown in Figure 1, this water treatment management system is a water treatment device management system that manages a domestic water treatment device that is placed at or near a water usage location, treats untreated water using at least one type of filter, and supplies treated water to the water usage location. In the case of managing the aforementioned domestic water treatment device, the at least one type of filter means the filter unit 10 itself, or the first filter 11 and the second filter 12 of the filter unit 10.

[0209] This water treatment management system has at least one computer having a CPU, memory device, display device, transceiver unit, etc., and has a filter information storage unit 100 in the memory device that stores information 110 about filters in use and information 120 about replacement filters used in the domestic water treatment device. The memory device may be configured from a plurality of memories respectively arranged in a plurality of computers.

[0210] The in-use filter information 110 includes performance degradation reference information (in-use filter performance degradation reference information) for each of a plurality of types of reference untreated water for the second filter 12 in use in the target domestic water treatment device. For example, it is preferable to have performance degradation standard information for the second filter 12 for each of various types of pre-treated water, such as pre-treated water after water containing dissolved type 1 surfactant (soap) is filtered through a filter that is the same as or the same type as the first filter 11, pre-treated water after water containing dissolved type 2 surfactant (a different type of soap) is filtered through a filter that is the same as or the same type as the first filter 11, pre-treated water after water containing dissolved type 3 surfactant (dishwashing detergent) is filtered through a filter that is the same as or the same type as the first filter 11, pre-treated water after water containing mixed type 1 food is filtered through a filter that is the same as or the same type as the first filter 11, pre-treated water after water containing mixed type 2 food is filtered through a filter that is the same as or the same type as the first filter 11, pre-treated water after water from a type 1 swamp is filtered through a filter that is the same as or the same type as the first filter 11, and pre-treated water after water from a type 2 swamp is filtered through a filter that is the same as or the same type as the first filter 11.

[0211] It is also possible to measure the performance degradation of the second filter 12 when various standard untreated waters are actually filtered through the second filter 12, and create performance degradation standard information based on the measurement data, or to create performance degradation standard information based on calculations or simulations using the basic characteristics (catalog values, etc.) of the second filter 12. It is also preferable that the in-use filter information 110 also includes similar performance degradation criteria information for the first filter 11.

[0212] The filter in use information 110 also includes at least one of filter in use type identification information that identifies the type of the first and second filters 11, 12 currently in use, such as the type, specifications, product number, and name of the first and second filters 11, 12, and filter in use function identification information that indicates the function, performance, etc. of the first and second filters 11, 12.

[0213] In this embodiment, the in-use filter information 110 further includes performance degradation standard information (in-use filter unit performance degradation standard information) for each of a plurality of types of reference pre-treatment water for the filter unit in which the second filter 12 performs filtration after the first filter 11. For example, it is preferable to include filter unit performance degradation standard information for each of various types of pre-treatment water, such as pre-treatment water containing a type 1 surfactant (soap), a type 2 surfactant (a different type of soap), a type 3 surfactant (dishwashing detergent), a type 1 food mixed in, a type 2 food mixed in, a type 1 swamp water, and a type 2 swamp water, as each reference pre-treatment water.

[0214] The in-use filter information 110 also includes in-use filter function identification information indicating the function, performance, etc. of the filter unit in which the second filter 12 performs filtration after the first filter 11 performs filtration. The replacement filter information 120 includes performance degradation standard information (replacement filter performance degradation standard information) for each of the multiple types of standard untreated water used in the performance degradation standard information of the second filter 12 for multiple replacement filters that can be replaced by the second filter 12. It is preferable that similar performance degradation standard information be included for multiple replacement filters that can be replaced by the first filter 11.

[0215] In addition, in this embodiment, the replacement filter information 120 includes performance degradation standard information (replacement filter unit performance degradation standard information) for each of the multiple types of standard untreated water used in the performance degradation standard information of the filter unit in use, for various replacement filter units such as a replacement filter unit consisting of a replacement filter 1-1 different from the first filter 11 in use and a second filter 12 in use, a replacement filter unit consisting of a replacement filter 1-2 different from the first filter 11 in use and the second filter 12 in use, a replacement filter unit consisting of a replacement filter 1-1 and a replacement filter 2-1 different from the second filter 12 in use, and a replacement filter unit consisting of the first filter 11 in use, the second filter 12 in use, and a third filter placed between the two filters.

[0216] This water treatment management system has an information receiving means for receiving information about changes in the performance of filters in use from the target household water treatment device. The information receiving means has a CPU controlling the transmitter / receiver unit according to an information receiving program stored in a memory device. For example, the information receiving means receives the performance change information transmitted by the household water treatment device in step S11 via a communication path such as a wired, wireless, or combination thereof, and stores the information in memory in association with the target household water treatment device. At this time, the filter type identification information and filter function identification information in use can be received and stored in memory.

[0217] Alternatively, if the household water treatment device transmits the detection results or operational status information, including the treated water volume as part of the detection results or operational status information in step S11, the detection results or operational status information is received and stored in memory in association with the target household water treatment device. The detection results or operational status information is also information regarding performance changes.

[0218] In addition, the water treatment management system operates the CPU according to a water type estimation program stored in memory, and estimates the water type of the untreated water based on in-use filter information 110 and information related to the performance change. Examples of in-use filter information 110 include in-use filter unit performance degradation criteria information, in-use filter unit type identification information, and in-use filter unit function identification information. In-use filter unit function identification information includes the rated filtration performance of the in-use filter unit, etc.

[0219] For example, by comparing the information on the performance change with the rate and pattern of performance degradation for each reference untreated water in the in-use filter unit performance degradation reference information, an estimation can be made based on which reference untreated water the untreated water being treated by the in-use filter unit 10 is closest to. It is also possible to estimate that the untreated water being treated by the in-use filter unit 10 corresponds to a combination of multiple reference untreated waters, rather than estimating that the untreated water corresponds to a single reference untreated water. The water treatment device management system may also receive user input information from a user's computer or household water treatment device, including at least one of the purpose of water at the water usage location, the properties of the untreated water, and the source of the untreated water, and use the user input information to estimate the water type.

[0220] Instead of estimating water type using the above method, a water type estimation program stored in memory can be used to operate the CPU, receive sensor detection results (operating state detection values) transmitted by the target household water treatment device, and store them in memory in association with the household water treatment device. The water type of the untreated water can be estimated based on these detection results. In this case, the household water treatment device is configured to transmit detection results from the pressure sensor 61, flow rate sensor 62, electrical conductivity sensor 63, odor sensor 64, etc. For example, estimation can be made based on the composition of the untreated water estimated by the electrical conductivity sensor 63 and the odor detected by the odor sensor 64.

[0221] Furthermore, it is possible to estimate the water type based solely on information related to the performance changes. For example, a household water treatment device or a water treatment management system running an estimation program can correlate the treatment flow rate derived from the detection results of the pressure sensor 61, electrical conductivity sensor 63, odor sensor 64, etc. and the detection result of the flow rate sensor 62 with the treatment time to obtain data that can grasp the change in each detected value over time. As a result, if the pressure changes significantly over time, it indicates that the quality of the untreated water fluctuates greatly, so it can be inferred that the untreated water is obtained from a place with consistent water quality, such as a river or a swamp. On the other hand, if the detection values ​​of the electrical conductivity sensor 63 and odor sensor 64 vary significantly over time, it can be inferred that multiple types of wastewater, such as water mixed with detergent or food, is being used as the untreated water.

[0222] In addition, the water treatment management system operates the CPU using an information supply program stored in memory, and provides filter replacement information to the domestic water treatment device or the user's computer via a communication path such as a wired, wireless, or combination thereof. At this time, the CPU refers to, for example, the performance degradation standard information of the second filter 12 in the in-use filter information 110 and the performance degradation standard information of multiple replacement filters that can be replaced by the second filter 12 in the replacement filter information 120, and if there is a replacement filter that can delay performance degradation more than the second filter 12 in use for the water type estimated by the water type estimation means, performs a process to send the filter replacement information including information about that filter to the domestic water treatment device or the computer. This filter replacement information is transmitted as maintenance information for the domestic water treatment device.

[0223] The user's computer includes a computer with a display function installed in the home, a tablet terminal such as a user's smartphone, a user's mobile phone, a user's desktop or laptop computer, etc. Any device that can receive information such as filter replacement information and convey that information to the user is considered to be included in the user's computer.

[0224] The water treatment management system can also operate the CPU using an information supply program stored in memory to transmit maintenance information for the home water treatment device according to the water type estimation result. For example, if the estimated water type is a predetermined type or the estimated water type is a water type that changes in a predetermined pattern, and a priority order of recommended filters has been determined for the predetermined water type, the system can transmit information on replacement filters according to the estimated water type.

[0225] Furthermore, as maintenance information, the current performance level of the filter unit or individual filter in use can be estimated based on the performance information and the filter in use information 110, and the replacement time of the filter unit or individual filter in use can be estimated based on the performance information and the filter in use information 110 for the estimated type of water type and change pattern, and the current performance level and replacement time can be transmitted.

[0226] On the other hand, in the water treatment management system, the CPU operates according to an information supply program stored in the memory, and transmits optimal operating method information for the operation of the pump 20 and the valve unit based on the estimated water type and change pattern and / or the filter information 110 in use as information on the operating method.

[0227] For example, in a certain household water treatment device, if the valve unit operates so that untreated water always passes through the first filter 11 and then the second filter 12, and if the water type is such that foreign matter of a certain size or length or larger can be removed using the first filter 11 to obtain treated water of a certain level or higher, information regarding the operating method will be sent to the household water treatment device or the computer, stating that the above-mentioned operation will obtain the above-mentioned treated water quality at the current location of use, and the operating pattern data required for that operation will be sent to the control unit 30 of the household water treatment device.

[0228] Depending on environmental factors such as the place, location, situation, temperature, humidity, vibration, and air pressure where the water is used, usage factors such as the method and purpose of using the water, and temporal factors such as the frequency of water use and the duration of each use, information on various types of performance changes and performance degradation standard information created with various situations in mind (filter performance degradation standard information in use, filter unit performance degradation standard information in use, replacement filter performance degradation standard information, replacement filter unit performance degradation standard information) can be used to more accurately estimate the water type.

[0229] For example, let us consider a case where water is used in a desert environment. Desert sand is easily moved by wind and contains many fine particles. This means that sand easily finds its way into the water-using area, and tends to be mixed into the untreated water. In this situation, if a sediment filter designed to remove larger particles is used as the first filter 110, the performance of the first filter 110 will deteriorate quickly.

[0230] Because environmental factors can play a major role, it is preferable that performance degradation criteria information be created for various reference untreated water samples with varying particle sizes. On the other hand, if multiple household water treatment devices are installed in the same desert and the water treatment device management system knows the installation location of each household water treatment device using GPS or the like, the filter information creation means can accumulate information regarding performance conversion transmitted from each household water treatment device, thereby creating performance degradation criteria information for various filters in that environment (location). Furthermore, replacement filter information can also be created using this accumulated information.

[0231] Regarding usage factors, we will explain the case where water is used in a shower booth and soap and shampoo are mixed in the untreated water. In a shower booth, the amount of soap and other substances used varies greatly from person to person, and the soap concentration changes over time, and the manner in which this changes varies. Therefore, even if the same soap is used, the rate at which the filter's performance deteriorates will vary.

[0232] Therefore, to estimate water type, rather than simply detecting the operating status of the household water treatment device (pump) or the flow rate passing through the filter in use, for example, reference untreated water with varying soap concentrations is passed through the filter, and multiple sensors are used to detect pressure and turbidity before and after the filter, and performance degradation reference information for various filters is created using the detected values ​​of each sensor that change over time. Creating performance degradation reference information based on various concentrations, concentration change patterns, soap types, etc. enables more accurate water type estimation. In this case, information regarding performance changes of the filter or filter unit in use can be, for example, sensor detection results that change over time and operating status information based on these.

[0233] Regarding the time factor, we will explain the case where the water usage location is infrequent. For example, if the water is used only about once a week, bacteria may grow on the filter during the period of non-use, and these bacteria may cause a deterioration in the filter's performance. In this case, standard untreated water is passed through the filter, and then the detection values ​​of each sensor, which change over time during the period of non-use, are obtained to create performance deterioration reference information for various filters.

[0234] More accurate water type estimation is possible by creating performance degradation reference information based on various types of reference untreated water, the amount of reference untreated water passed through the filter at one time, the temperature and humidity of the location where the filter is placed, the type of bacteria, and changes caused by passing reference untreated water through the filter after bacteria have multiplied.In this case, the information regarding performance changes of the filter or filter unit in use can be, for example, the amount of change between the detection values ​​of each sensor when water was last used and the detection values ​​of each sensor when water was currently used, correlated with the time it took for the change to occur.

[0235] On the other hand, when obtaining information about changes in the performance of a filter or filter unit in use, the state of the pump can be taken into consideration. For example, if the pump's performance begins to deteriorate, the detected values ​​of each sensor can be corrected to take the deterioration of the pump's performance into account. Furthermore, if the pump is in an abnormal state, it may be impossible to accurately obtain information about changes in the performance of a filter or filter unit in use. Therefore, information indicating that the pump is abnormal can be displayed on the display device of the household water treatment device or transmitted to the user's computer.

[0236] To determine whether the pump is in an abnormal state, for example, a sensor that detects the sound or vibration of the pump is provided. As an example, a sound sensor is provided inside the household water treatment device. In addition, data (volume, frequency, etc.) of the pump sound during normal operation is collected, a reference range indicating normality is created, and stored in memory. If the detected value of the sound sensor falls outside the reference range, the pump is determined to be in an abnormal state.

[0237] For example, if the sound sensor does not detect the pump sound even though the pump should be operating, it may be that the pump is broken or that power is not being supplied to the pump. Also, if the sound sensor detects a sound of a frequency different from that during normal operation and the detected value of the sound sensor falls outside the reference range, it may be that water is not being passed through the pump and the pump is running idly, that the filter membrane is not being subjected to appropriate pressure, or that water is leaking from the filter or piping.

[0238] On the other hand, if the filter is experiencing a performance degradation or abnormality due to factors other than clogging, it may not be possible to accurately obtain information regarding changes in the performance of the filter or filter unit in use. For this reason, even if the filter is experiencing a performance degradation or abnormality due to factors other than clogging, information indicating that the filter is abnormal is displayed on the display device of the household water treatment device or transmitted to the user's computer.

[0239] To determine whether a filter is in an abnormal state, for example, pressure sensors provided before and after the filter can be used. A normal reference pattern is created using time-series data from each pressure sensor under normal conditions and stored in memory. If the detected values ​​of each pressure sensor or the pattern of changes in the detected values ​​of each pressure sensor over time deviates from the reference pattern, it is determined that the filter is experiencing a performance degradation or abnormality due to factors other than clogging.

[0240] For example, if the moving average of the difference between the detected values ​​of each pressure sensor when the pump is operating normally and water is passing through the filter is greater than a predetermined value, it is determined that the filter is clogged and cannot perform its required function. Furthermore, if the difference in the detected values ​​of each pressure sensor when the pump is operating normally and water is passing through the filter shows a specific change (vibration, etc.) over time, it is determined that the time until the filter will no longer be able to perform its required function is extremely short. Furthermore, if the difference between the detected values ​​of the pressure sensors drops suddenly while the pump is operating normally and water is passing through the filter, it is determined that an abnormality such as breakage has occurred in the filter.

[0241] The performance degradation criteria information is called performance degradation criteria information because a degradation in at least one of the filter's functions can be considered a performance degradation. For example, a case in which the filter's permeation resistance increases due to clogging, but the filter's ability to remove impurities improves, is also included in the "performance degradation" mentioned above. Therefore, instead of calling it performance degradation criteria information, it is also possible to call it performance change criteria information.

[0242] Furthermore, while one function of the filter may decline, other functions may improve or emerge, and this is also considered a performance decline. For example, the adsorption function of an activated carbon filter declines as the total amount of permeated water increases, but after a certain period of use, microorganisms will adhere to the activated carbon filter, and if the type and amount of microorganisms meet certain conditions, the filter will develop a new function as a biological treatment filter.

[0243] Normally, an activated carbon filter whose adsorption function has declined to the extent that it does not meet the required value must be replaced with a new one. However, if the activated carbon filter can be used as a biological treatment filter, it becomes possible to perform water treatment that could not be performed with a new activated carbon filter.

[0244] 8 includes first and second activated carbon filters 510 and 520, a first pump 530 located closer to the untreated water inlet than the filters 510 and 520, and a tank 550 into which treated water flows after being treated by the filters 510 and 520. The water treatment device is used to allow a filter to perform another function after one function has deteriorated. In this water treatment device, the first and second filters 510 and 520 are arranged in parallel, for example.

[0245] This household water treatment device has a pipe 561 connecting the untreated water inlet and a first pump 530, a pipe 562 having one end connected to the pump 530, a first three-way valve 571 connected to the other end of the pipe 562, a pipe 563 having one end connected to the first three-way valve 571 and the other end connected to a second three-way valve 572 and having a first filter 510 in the middle, a pipe 564 having one end connected to the first three-way valve 571 and the other end connected to the second three-way valve 572 and having a second filter 520 in the middle, a pipe 565 connecting the second three-way valve 572 and a tank 550, a pipe 566 having one end connected to the tank 550 and the other end having a treated water outlet and an on-off valve (not shown), and a return path 567 for returning the water in the tank 550 to the pipe 562. A second pump 540 is provided in the return path 567 to cause the water in the tank 550 to flow toward the pipe 562 , and the return path 567 is connected to the middle of the pipe 562 via a third three-way valve 573 .

[0246] A first sensor 581 and a second sensor 582 are provided on the inlet and outlet sides of the first filter 510, respectively, for detecting the performance, function, etc. of the first filter 510. In this embodiment, the first and second sensors 581, 582 are pressure sensors. A third sensor 583 is provided for detecting the environment near the first filter 510, and in this embodiment, the third sensor 583 is a temperature sensor. Furthermore, a fourth sensor 584 is provided for detecting the state of the first filter 510, for example, the surface temperature of the first filter 510.

[0247] The first and second pumps 530, 540, the first to third three-way valves 571 to 573, and the first to fourth sensors 581 to 584 are connected to a control device 590 and configured to be controlled by the control device 590. 8, in this household water treatment device, first, a control device 590 controls the flow of untreated water from an untreated water inlet through a first filter 510 by a first pump 530 to a tank 550. As a result, foreign matter such as surfactants in the untreated water is treated by the activated carbon in the first filter 510.

[0248] At this time, the first filter 510 experiences a decrease in its adsorption function and an increase in microorganisms depending on the amount of permeated water, the type of water before treatment, frequency of use, etc., but the second filter 520 is unused, so there is almost no decrease in its adsorption function or an increase in microorganisms. Therefore, compared to when the first and second filters 510, 520 are used simultaneously or alternately, it is possible to lengthen the time until the adsorption functions of both the first and second filters 510, 520 decrease to a predetermined level.

[0249] The control device 590 determines that the adsorption function of each filter 510 has decreased to a predetermined level based on the detection values ​​of the first and second sensors 581, 582. Sensors similar to those of the first filter 510 may be provided on the inlet and outlet sides of the second filter 520. When the adsorption function of the first filter 510 has decreased to a predetermined level, the control device 590 controls the first pump 530 to cause the untreated water from the untreated water inlet to pass through the second filter 520 and flow to the tank 550, as shown in FIG. 9 . This allows the untreated water to be treated by the activated carbon in the second filter 520.

[0250] When the adsorption capacity of the first filter 510 decreases in this way, the first filter 510 is normally replaced with a new filter. In response to this, the control device 590 determines whether the type and amount of microorganisms adhering to the first filter 510 satisfy predetermined conditions. For example, by utilizing the fact that microorganisms generate heat, if a predetermined difference exists between the temperatures detected by the third sensor 583 and the fourth sensor 584 when water is not flowing through the first filter 510, it is determined that the amount of microorganisms adhering to the first filter 510 satisfies the predetermined condition. Furthermore, for example, if the temperature difference changes depending on the temperature detected by the third sensor 583 and the pattern of this change differs depending on the type of microorganism, it is determined that the type of microorganism also satisfies the predetermined condition if the pattern satisfies the predetermined condition.

[0251] If it is determined that the amount and type of microorganisms satisfy predetermined conditions, the control device 590 switches the first and second three-way valves 571, 572 from the second filter 520 to the first filter 510 side while stopping the first pump 530 during times when the water in the tank 550 is not being discharged through the pipe 566, and performs control so that the water in the tank 550 passes through the first filter 510 by the second pump 540 and returns to the tank 550. As a result, bacteria and the like that could not be removed by the second filter 520 are removed by the first filter 510, which has a new function.

[0252] In this way, by utilizing the new function of the first filter 510, the household water treatment device can provide new functions, which may broaden the range of use of the household water treatment device. In addition, the household water treatment device can switch between water treatment using the first filter 510 and water treatment using the second filter 520, so that the second filter 520 can perform the original water treatment of the household water treatment device without having to replace the filters, and new water treatment can also be performed using the first filter 510.

[0253] Furthermore, even before the adsorption capacity of first filter 510 drops to the predetermined level, the adsorption capacity gradually decreases, while the ability to remove bacteria and the like gradually improves. For this reason, based on the detection values ​​of first to fourth sensors 581 to 584, control device 590 can perform water treatment using the adsorption function of first filter 510 under normal operating conditions, and can perform control such that, during times when water in tank 550 is not being discharged through piping 566, the water in tank 550 passes through first filter 510 by second pump 540 and returns to tank 550. In other words, control device 590 can manage changes in the function of each filter 510, 520 for each function, and can switch the water treatment method depending on the function that each filter 510, 520 has at that time.

[0254] The control device 590 may control the switching of the water treatment method of the household water treatment device based on a control signal received from the water treatment device management system. Alternatively, the water treatment device management system may directly send control signals to the first and second pumps 530, 540, the first to third three-way valves 571-573, and the first to fourth sensors 581-584 to directly control these components. In this case, the water treatment device management system receives information on the detected values ​​of the first to fourth sensors 581-584 and estimates the water type of the untreated water based on that information and information on the filter or filter unit in use. The control signal is then transmitted as information on the operating method corresponding to the estimated water type. Switching the water treatment method after estimating the water type enables water treatment that is more tailored to customer needs and is also advantageous for extending the life of the filters.

[0255] A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The domestic water treatment device of this embodiment has all the configurations of the domestic water treatment device of the first embodiment, and the water treatment management system of this embodiment has all the configurations of the water treatment management system of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, in the water treatment management system of this embodiment, the memory device further stores information 130 of at least one water supply location that can supply untreated water near the water usage location.

[0256] The water supply site information 130 includes basic water supply site information such as the location and name of each of the multiple water supply sites, as well as performance degradation criteria information for filters of the same or similar type as the filters in use for untreated water at each water supply site (in-use filter performance degradation criteria information). For example, it is preferable to include performance degradation criteria information for the second filter 12 for each of various types of untreated water, such as untreated water after river 1 water is filtered through a filter that is the same or similar type as the first filter 11, untreated water after river 2 water is filtered through a filter that is the same or similar type as the first filter 11, untreated water after swamp 1 water is filtered through a filter that is the same or similar type as the first filter 11, untreated water after swamp 2 water is filtered through a filter that is the same or similar type as the first filter 11, and untreated water after well 1 water is filtered through a filter that is the same or similar type as the first filter 11.

[0257] The water supply source is not limited to rivers, swamps, wells, etc., but can also be any other source, such as existing infrastructure water outlets or bottled water. For example, in some countries or regions, water pipes are partially destroyed to allow water theft, which can result in the water not coming out of the water outlet being clear. Also, if the purified water pipe and sewer pipe are located nearby, the smell of the sewer water may transfer to the purified water pipe.

[0258] It is also possible to measure the performance degradation of the second filter 12 when various standard untreated waters are actually filtered through the second filter 12, and create performance degradation standard information based on the measurement data, or to create performance degradation standard information based on calculations or simulations using the basic characteristics (catalog values, etc.) of the second filter 12. Furthermore, depending on the water supply location, the water quality may change depending on the season, etc., and may also change depending on the air temperature, water temperature, and hours of sunlight. Therefore, it is possible to constantly measure water quality data from such water supply locations and performance degradation standard information for the second filter 12 for untreated water after the water from the water supply location has been filtered by, for example, the first filter 11, and update the water supply location information 130 based on the results. Furthermore, it is preferable that the water supply location information 130 also includes similar performance degradation criteria information for the first filter 11 as in-use filter performance degradation criteria information.

[0259] The water supply location information 130 also includes filter type identification information in use that identifies the type of the first and second filters 11, 12 currently in use, such as the type, specifications, product number, and name of the first and second filters 11, 12, and filter function identification information in use that indicates the functions, performance, etc. of the first and second filters 11, 12, and filter evaluation comparison information in use that matches the evaluation value for untreated water at each water treatment location with at least one of these. For example, for untreated water from River 1, the first filter 11 has evaluation values ​​of water quality 3, treatment speed 4, and performance degradation rate 2, and for untreated water obtained by filtering River 1 water through filter 11, the second filter 12 has evaluation values ​​of water quality 1, treatment speed 2, and performance degradation rate 3, and so on.

[0260] In this embodiment, the water supply location information 130 further includes performance degradation standard information (in-use filter unit performance degradation standard information) for each of a plurality of water supply locations for the filter unit in which the second filter 12 performs filtration after the first filter 11 has performed filtration. For example, it is preferable to have filter unit performance degradation standard information for each of various water supply locations, such as untreated water that is water from River 1, untreated water that is water from River 2, etc.

[0261] The water supply location information 130 also includes filter unit in-use evaluation comparison information that corresponds, for a filter unit in which the second filter 12 filters after the first filter 11 filters, filter function identification information indicating the function, performance, etc. of the filter unit, with the evaluation value for the untreated water at each water treatment location. For example, for treated water from River 1, the filter unit may have evaluation values ​​of water quality 3, treatment speed 4, and performance degradation rate 2, while for treated water from River 2, the filter unit may have evaluation values ​​of water quality 2, treatment speed 5, and performance degradation rate 3.

[0262] From the viewpoint of replacement filters, for example, for a plurality of replacement filters that can be replaced by the second filter 12, they have replacement filter performance degradation standard information similar to the in-use filter performance degradation standard information, they have replacement filter unit performance degradation standard information similar to the in-use filter unit performance degradation standard information, they have replacement filter evaluation comparison information similar to the in-use filter evaluation comparison information, and they have replacement filter unit evaluation comparison information similar to the in-use filter unit evaluation comparison information.

[0263] In addition, the water treatment management system operates the CPU using an information supply program stored in memory, and provides water supply-related information to the domestic water treatment device or the user's computer via a communication path that may be wired, wireless, or a combination thereof. At this time, the CPU refers to, for example, the performance degradation standard information of the filter or filter unit in use in the water supply location information 130, and if there is pre-treated water that can slow the performance degradation faster than the performance degradation rate of the second filter 12 in use or the filter unit in use consisting of filters 11 and 12 for the current pre-treated water estimated based on the information on the performance change, it sends supply water-related information based on the information of the water supply location corresponding to the pre-treated water to the domestic water treatment device or the computer.

[0264] At this time, it is preferable that the water supply location information is selected based on the location information of the domestic water treatment device and the location information of each water supply location, or that the water supply location information is selected from among the water supply locations that have been set in advance, and the selection and transmission of the water supply related information is carried out. The same applies to the following processes.

[0265] In addition, the water treatment management system operates the CPU using an information supply program stored in memory, and refers to the evaluation and comparison information of the filters and filter units in use and information on the performance changes in the water supply location information 130.If there is pre-treated water that can slow the performance degradation of the second filter 12 in use or the filter unit in use consisting of filters 11 and 12 compared to the current pre-treated water estimated based on the information on the performance changes, it sends supply water-related information based on the information on the water supply location corresponding to the pre-treated water to the domestic water treatment device or the computer.

[0266] In addition, the water treatment management system operates the CPU using an information supply program stored in memory, and refers to the evaluation and comparison information of the filter in use and the evaluation and comparison information of the replacement filter in the water supply location information 130, and if there is a combination of the water supply location and the second filter 12 in use or its replacement filter that meets a specified standard, it transmits information about that combination as the supply water related information.

[0267] Furthermore, the water treatment management system refers to the evaluation and comparison information of the filter units in use and the evaluation and comparison information of the replacement filter units in the water supply location information 130, and if there is a combination of the water supply location and the filter unit consisting of the first and second filters 11, 12 in use or its replacement filter unit that meets a predetermined standard, it transmits information about that combination as the supply water related information.

[0268] In addition, the water treatment management system operates the CPU according to a request storage program stored in the memory, and receives and stores requests from users, for example, from a home water treatment device or a user's computer. For example, requests for water quality 2, treatment speed 5, etc. are received and stored as user requests. The water treatment management system then determines the predetermined criteria based on a request from the user, and if there is a combination that satisfies the criteria, transmits information about the combination as the supply water related information.

[0269] For example, if the combination of untreated water from River 1 and replacement filter unit 2 satisfies the criteria, information about the combination is transmitted. Furthermore, when transmitting the information, it is also possible to attach evaluation information related to the user's request. For example, if replacement filter unit 2 has evaluation comparison information such as water quality 2, treatment speed 5, and performance degradation rate 2 for untreated water from river 1, the evaluation comparison information can be transmitted as evaluation information for the user to evaluate. Other information may also be transmitted as evaluation information.

[0270] A third embodiment of the present invention will now be described. The domestic water treatment device of this embodiment has all the configurations of the domestic water treatment device of the second embodiment, and the water treatment management system of this embodiment has all the configurations of the water treatment management system of the second embodiment.

[0271] The in-use filter information 110 of this water treatment management system includes, for each of a plurality of types of reference untreated water, post-treatment water quality standard information (in-use filter post-treatment water quality standard information), which is quality prediction data for water treated with the same or similar filter as the in-use filter. The reference untreated water may be that shown in the first embodiment, and it is preferable to have post-treatment water quality standard information for water treated with the second filter 12 for each of the various types of untreated water. It is also preferable to have similar post-treatment water quality standard information for the first filter 11.

[0272] In this embodiment, the in-use filter information 110 further includes post-treatment water quality standard information (in-use filter unit post-treatment water quality standard information) for each of multiple types of standard pre-treatment water for the filter unit in which the second filter 12 filters after the first filter 11 filters.

[0273] Also, from the perspective of replacement filters, for example, for multiple replacement filters that can be replaced with the second filter 12, they have replacement filter post-processing water quality standard information that is similar to the in-use filter post-processing water quality standard information, and replacement filter unit post-processing water quality standard information that is similar to the in-use filter unit post-processing water quality standard information.

[0274] In addition, the water treatment management system operates the CPU according to an information supply program stored in memory, and refers to the post-treatment water quality standard information of the filter in use, the post-treatment water quality standard information of the filter unit in use, the post-treatment water quality standard information of the replacement filter, and the post-treatment water quality standard information of the replacement filter unit, or refers to information regarding performance changes and the post-treatment water quality standard information of the replacement filter and the post-treatment water quality standard information of the replacement filter unit, and if there is a replacement filter or replacement filter unit that can improve the quality of the treated water more than, for example, the filter 12 in use or a filter unit consisting of filters 11 and 12 for the water type estimated by the water type estimation means, filter replacement information including information regarding the filter or filter unit is sent to the household water treatment device or the computer.

[0275] In addition, the water treatment management system operates the CPU using an information supply program stored in memory, and refers to either or both of the filter type identification information in use and the filter (filter unit) function identification information in use, and the replacement filter (filter unit) post-treatment water quality standard information, or refers to the information regarding performance changes and the replacement filter (filter unit) post-treatment water quality standard information, and if there is a replacement filter or filter unit that can improve the quality of the treated water more than the second filter 12 currently in use or the filter unit consisting of filters 11 and 12 for the water type estimated by the water type estimation means, sends the filter replacement information including information regarding the filter or filter unit to the household water treatment device or the computer.

[0276] In addition, the water treatment management system operates the CPU using an information supply program stored in memory, and refers to the replacement filter (filter unit) treated water quality standard information.If there is a replacement filter or filter unit that can improve the quality of the treated water more than the second filter 12 currently in use for the water type estimated by the water type estimation means or the filter unit consisting of filters 11 and 12, the water treatment management system transmits the filter replacement information including information about the filter or filter unit to the domestic water treatment device or the computer.

[0277] A fourth embodiment of the present invention will now be described. The domestic water treatment device of this embodiment has all the configurations of the domestic water treatment device of the third embodiment, and the water treatment management system of this embodiment has all the configurations of the water treatment management system of the third embodiment.

[0278] The water supply site information 130 of this water treatment management system includes post-treatment water quality standard information (post-treatment water quality standard information for in-use filters) for untreated water at each water supply site, which is quality prediction data for water treated with the same or similar filter as the filter in use. The untreated water at each water supply site can be that shown in the second embodiment, and it is preferable to have post-treatment water quality standard information for water treated with the second filter 12 for each of the untreated water at various water supply sites. It is also preferable to have similar post-treatment water quality standard information for the first filter 11.

[0279] In addition, the water supply location information 130 includes post-treatment water quality standard information (post-treatment water quality standard information for filter units in use) for each of the pre-treatment water at multiple water supply locations for the filter units in which the first filter 11 performs filtration and then the second filter 12 performs filtration.

[0280] In addition, as the water supply location information 130, from the viewpoint of replacement filters, for example, for a plurality of replacement filters that can be replaced with the second filter 12, it has replacement filter post-processing water quality standard information similar to the in-use filter post-processing water quality standard information, and replacement filter unit post-processing water quality standard information similar to the in-use filter unit post-processing water quality standard information.

[0281] In addition, the water treatment management system operates the CPU using an information supply program stored in memory, and refers to the post-treatment water quality standard information for the filter (filter unit) in use.If there is pre-treatment water that can improve the quality of the post-treatment water compared to the water quality after treatment of the current pre-treatment water by the filter 12 in use or the filter unit consisting of filters 11 and 12, it sends the supply water-related information corresponding to the pre-treatment water to the domestic water treatment device or the computer.

[0282] In addition, the water treatment management system operates the CPU using an information supply program stored in memory, and refers to the evaluation and comparison information of the filters (filter units) in use and information on the performance changes in the water supply location information.If there is pre-treated water that can improve the quality of treated water compared to the water quality after the pre-treated water is treated by the filter 12 in use or the filter unit consisting of filters 11 and 12, the water supply management system sends supply water-related information corresponding to the pre-treated water to the domestic water treatment device or the computer.

[0283] The water treatment management system also includes an information receiving unit in which a CPU operates according to an information receiving program stored in memory and receives, from the household water treatment device, information about the quality of water after passing through an in-use filter unit consisting of filters 11 and 12. The household water treatment device is equipped with, for example, an electrical conductivity sensor and an odor sensor downstream of filter 12, and is configured to create information about the quality of the water after passing through based on the detection results of these sensors and send it to the water treatment management system.

[0284] In addition, the water treatment management system operates the CPU using an information supply program stored in memory, and refers to the water quality standard information after treatment by the filter (filter unit) in use and information on the quality of the water after passing through in the water supply location information 130, and if there is a water supply location where the quality of the water after passing through the filter unit in use consisting of filters 11 and 12 is improved in specified parameters compared to the quality of the water after passing through, the water supply related information corresponding to the water supply location is sent to the domestic water treatment device or the computer.

[0285] A body washing system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. An example of this body washing system is shown in Figure 5. This body washing system comprises a body washing main body unit 200 having a plurality of body washing rooms 210 equipped with shower heads 201, faucets 202, etc., which are water supply ports for body washing, doors 211 for closing each body washing room 210, and locking mechanisms 212 for locking the closed doors 211, and a domestic water treatment device 300.

[0286] The domestic water treatment device 300 partially uses the configuration used in the domestic water treatment devices of the first to fourth embodiments. Although the domestic water treatment device 300 can have the same configuration as the domestic water treatment devices of the first to fourth embodiments, in this embodiment, as an example, the domestic water treatment device 300 includes a drainage tank 310 that stores untreated water (drainage water) from each body washing room 210 of the body washing main body 200, a pump 20 that circulates the untreated water in the drainage tank 310 through a first filter 11 of a first type and also through a second filter 11 of a second type, and sends treated water that has passed through the second first filter 11 to an intermediate tank 320, a second filter pump 340 that passes the water stored in the intermediate tank 320 through a second filter 12 and into a water storage tank 330, and a treated water supply pump 350 that sends the treated water stored in the water storage tank 330 to the shower head 201, faucet 202, etc. of each body washing room 210. A concentrated water storage tank 321 may be provided to store sediment, settled water, sludge, etc. in the intermediate tank 320.

[0287] The first type first filter 11, the second type first filter 11, the second filter 12, and the pump 20 can be the same as those in the first to fourth embodiments. Note that it is possible to use, for example, a sediment filter as the first type first filter 11, a filter using activated carbon as the second type first filter 11, and a filter using a reverse osmosis membrane as the second filter 12. The second filter pump 340 and the treated water supply pump 350 can be various types of known water pumps.

[0288] The domestic water treatment device 300 is equipped with a first sensor 361 that detects the water quality, water pressure, flow rate, etc. of the untreated water flowing from the drainage tank 310 to the first type of first filter 11, a second sensor 362 that detects the water quality, water pressure, flow rate, etc. of the water flowing from the first type of first filter 11 to the second type of first filter 11, a third sensor 363 that detects the water quality, water pressure, flow rate, etc. of the water flowing from the second type of first filter 11 to the intermediate tank 320, a fourth sensor 364 that detects the water quality, water pressure, flow rate, etc. of the water flowing from the intermediate tank 320 to the second filter 12, and a fifth sensor 365 that detects the water quality, water pressure, flow rate, etc. of the treated water supplied from the water storage tank 330 to each shower head 201 and each faucet 202 of the body wash main body part 200.

[0289] Water quality detection involves detecting the type of component of foreign matter, the amount of component of foreign matter, odor, etc., and electrical conductivity sensors and odor sensors are used. Water pressure sensors are used to detect water pressure, and flow meters are used to detect flow rate. Each of the sensors 361-365 may be configured to detect water quality, water pressure, and flow rate, or each may be configured to detect one of water quality, water pressure, and flow rate. Furthermore, it is not necessary to provide all of the first through fifth sensors 361-365, and some may be omitted as appropriate depending on the required functions.

[0290] The domestic water treatment device 300 has a control unit 370 consisting of a computer having a CPU, a memory device, a display device, a transceiver unit, etc., and the control unit 370 is connected to each pump 20, 340, 350, each sensor 361 to 365, a display device 220 or a sound generating device provided in each body washing room 210, and the locking mechanism 212 of each body washing room 210, and is configured to control these components, receive information from these components, and transmit information to these components.

[0291] The body washing main body 200 has purified water piping that distributes treated water sent from the treated water supply pump 350 to the shower heads 201, faucets 202, etc. of each body washing room 210, and also has drainage piping that sends untreated water from the drains of each body washing room 210 toward the drainage tank 310 of the domestic water treatment device 300.

[0292] As shown in Fig. 6, the control unit 370 operates the CPU according to a treated water information supply program stored in its memory device, and while a user is using treated water in the body washing room 210, transmits information about the quality of the treated water detected by the fifth sensor 365 to the display device 220 or audio generating device of the body washing room 210. This allows the user to check the condition of the treated water being supplied. The fifth sensor 365 may be positioned to detect the quality of the treated water immediately after the second filter 12 or the treated water in the water storage tank 330.

[0293] The display device 220 may be provided with an input unit for controlling the domestic water treatment device, and when a user inputs instructions regarding water quality into the input unit, the instruction signal is sent to the control unit 370, which then controls the operating speed of each of the pumps 20, 340, 350, etc. in accordance with the instruction signal. If the domestic water treatment device 300 is one of the domestic water treatment devices of the first to fourth embodiments, the control unit 30 may also control the pump 20 and each of the valves 41 to 45 in accordance with the instruction signal.

[0294] For example, if the user's instruction is to increase the water treatment speed even if it means lowering the water quality because the amount of water supplied is insufficient, the control unit 30 controls the valves 41 to 44 so that the untreated water passes only through the first filter 11 without passing through the second filter 12. Alternatively, if the water treatment speed can be increased at the expense of lowering the water quality simply by increasing the speed of the pump 20, the rotational speed of the pump 20 is increased.

[0295] Furthermore, when the domestic water treatment device of the first to fourth embodiments is used, the CPU of the control unit 370 operates according to a user information supply program stored in the memory device, and transmits the detection results of each sensor, operating status information, performance change information, filter replacement information received from the water treatment device management system, water supply location information, etc. to the display device 220 or audio generating device of each body washing room 210. This information may be transmitted only when the user is using the device.

[0296] The control unit 370 also operates the CPU according to a user management program stored in the memory device, and receives application information from the user's computer or an input unit provided in the body washing system. The application information includes the user's ID, the room number of the multiple body washing rooms 210 that the user wishes to use, and the time period during which the user wishes to use the room. The control unit 370 associates the user's name, the user's ID, the billing method and destination for the user, key information possessed by the user, and other information in the memory device. When the application information is received or on the screen for entering the application information, the control unit 370 checks whether the user ID in the application information matches the user ID in the user registration information, and if they match, accepts the application information.

[0297] Then, in accordance with the received application information, the control unit 370 sends unlocking information to the locking mechanism 212 of the body washing room 210 with the corresponding room number, so that the locking mechanism 212 can be unlocked using the key information held by the user. This makes it possible to create an environment where only specific users can use a body washing system located in a shared space, etc. In other words, it is possible to share the maintenance costs among registered users, or to have a system where a fee is charged each time the system is used.

[0298] The control unit 370 also operates the CPU according to a user management program stored in the memory device, and stores usage status information for each body washing room 210 in the memory device in association with the user who used the room each time the room is used. For example, the usage status information is data that associates the usage time and amount of water used with the user. This allows the usage status of each user to be grasped, making it possible to implement progressive charges according to usage status, and to alert users regarding usage status, etc.

[0299] The body washing system is an example of a water treatment system, and can also be configured as a water treatment system for various types of wastewater, such as a toilet wastewater treatment system, a laundry wastewater treatment system, a cooking wastewater treatment system, a dishwashing wastewater treatment system, a washroom wastewater treatment system, etc. For example, in the case of a toilet wastewater treatment system, each body washing room 210 is a toilet cubicle, and in the case of a laundry wastewater treatment system, each body washing room 210 is a laundry room. The number and type of each filter can be changed as appropriate depending on the purpose of the water treatment system.

[0300] A home water treatment device according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. An example of a home water treatment device 400 is shown in Fig. 7. This home water treatment device 400 partially uses the configurations used in the home water treatment devices of the first to fifth embodiments. The household water treatment device 400 comprises a wastewater (untreated water) tank 410 that collects untreated water from excrement treatment equipment such as toilets and food and dish washing equipment such as kitchen sinks, a biological treatment tank 420 into which water flows after sludge and large foreign objects have been removed from the untreated water in the wastewater tank 410, a pump 20 that circulates the water from the biological treatment tank 420 through a first type of first filter 11 and a second type of first filter 11, and sends the treated water that has passed through the second type of first filter 11 to an intermediate tank 320, a second filter pump 340 that passes the water stored in the intermediate tank 320 through a second filter 12 and into a water storage tank 330, and a supply pipe 440 that passes the treated water stored in the water storage tank 330 through a disinfection section 430 and sends it to the excrement treatment equipment and food and dish washing equipment. A concentrated water storage tank 450 may be provided to store sediment, settled water, sludge, etc. in the wastewater tank 410 and the biological treatment tank 420.

[0301] In this embodiment, the first filter 11 is a filter using, for example, a UF membrane. The raw water tank 410 is a filter for removing sludge and large foreign matter from the raw water, so it can also be called a third type of first filter 11, and the biological treatment tank 420 is a filter for removing specific substances from the raw water using microorganisms, so it can also be called a fourth type of first filter 11.

[0302] This domestic water treatment device 400 also includes sensors 461-468 that detect water quality, water pressure, flow rate, etc. at various locations. Each of the sensors 461-468 may be configured to detect water quality, water pressure, and flow rate, or each may be configured to detect only one of water quality, water pressure, and flow rate. Furthermore, it is not necessary to provide all of the sensors 461-468, and some may be omitted as appropriate depending on the required functions.

[0303] The domestic water treatment device 400 has a control unit 470 consisting of a computer having a CPU, a memory device, a display device, a transceiver unit, etc., and the control unit 470 is connected to each pump 20, 340 and each sensor 461 to 468, and is configured to control these components, receive information from these components, and transmit information to these components.

[0304] The control unit 470 of the domestic water treatment device 400 may be configured similarly to the control unit 30 of the domestic water treatment device of any of the first to fourth embodiments. In this case, the control unit 370 displays, on the display device of the domestic water treatment device 400, filter replacement information, water supply location information, and the like, received from the water treatment device management system of any of the first to fourth embodiments. At this time, the filter replacement information includes replacement filter information regarding the first to fourth types of first filters 11, replacement filter information regarding the second filter 12, replacement filter information for a filter unit in which the first to fourth types of first filters 11 are combined with the second filter 12, etc. Moreover, the water supply location information takes into consideration the first to fourth types of first filters 11 and second filters 12.

[0305] In the domestic water treatment device 400, the control unit 470 can also control the stirring means (air blowing device, propeller rotation device, etc.) provided in the biological treatment tank 420 according to operation instruction information received from the water treatment device management system of the first to fourth embodiments. In this case, the water treatment device management system receives current filter unit configuration information and detection values ​​of each of sensors 461 to 468 from the domestic water treatment device 400, and creates the operation instruction information based on this information. [Explanation of symbols]

[0306] 1 Untreated water inlet 2. Treated water outlet 10 Filter unit 11 First Filter 12 Second Filter 20 Pump 30 Control Unit 41 First three-way valve 42 Second three-way valve 43 Third three-way valve 44 Fourth three-way valve 45 Fifth three-way valve 57 Reference water flow path 61 Pressure Sensor 62 Flow sensor 63 Electrical Conductivity Sensor 64 Odor Sensor 100 Filter information storage section 110 Filter in use information 120 Replacement Filter Information 130 Water Supply Location Information

Claims

1. A system including a water treatment device and a computer having a memory device storing a water type estimation program and post-filter unit treatment water quality standard information, the computer is configured to estimate the water type of the untreated water based on the water type estimation program and in accordance with the detection result of the sensor included in the water treatment device; The filter unit treated water quality standard information includes information regarding the quality of treated water for each of one or more types of standard untreated water for each of a filter unit attached to the water treatment device and one or more replacement filter units replaceable for the filter unit, The computer refers to the filter unit post-treatment water quality standard information, and if there is a candidate replacement filter unit among the one or more replacement filter units that is more suitable than the filter unit in terms of the quality of water after water treatment for the estimated water type, the computer performs a process of sending information about the candidate replacement filter unit to the water treatment device or a process of sending the information to be displayed on a computer display device.

2. A system including a water treatment device and a computer having a memory device storing a water type estimation program and filter unit information, the computer is configured to estimate the water type of the untreated water based on the water type estimation program and in accordance with the detection result of the sensor included in the water treatment device; the filter unit information includes filter unit performance degradation reference information, which is information on performance degradation with respect to one or more types of reference untreated water, for each of a filter unit attached to the water treatment device and one or more replacement filter units replaceable for the filter unit; The computer refers to the filter unit information, and if there is a candidate replacement filter unit among the one or more replacement filter units that is more suitable for the estimated water type than the filter unit, performs a process of transmitting information about the candidate replacement filter unit to the water treatment device or a process of transmitting information for display on a computer display device.

3. the filter unit includes a first filter and a second filter; a valve unit that can be switched between a first flow state in which the untreated water is circulated only through the first filter and a second flow state in which the untreated water is circulated within the filter unit via a route different from that of the first flow state; The system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: a control unit that controls the valve unit.

4. The untreated water includes at least one of water used in at least one of places where body washing equipment such as shower rooms, bathrooms, hand washing areas, foot washing areas, and animal body washing areas are installed, places where clothing washing equipment such as washing machines and laundry implements are installed, places where excrement treatment equipment such as toilets are installed, places where food and tableware washing equipment such as kitchens are installed, and places where water supply equipment for providing drinking water, cooking water, etc. is installed, or naturally collected water, The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the naturally collected water is water including at least one of river water, swamp water, lake water, sea water, well water, and rainwater.

Images