Water purification cartridge

Abstract

To provide a highly reliable water purification cartridge capable of preventing false recognition of water discharge.SOLUTION: A water discharge head 8 has: (a) a regulating part RG1 that allows mutual shifting between a first state J1 and a second state J2 and, in the first state J1, regulates switching from raw water to pure water through a switching mechanism and, in the second state J2, permits switching from raw water to pure water through the switching mechanism; (b) a water purification cartridge PC1 having a regulation releasing part DR1 that shifts the regulating part RG1 from the first state J1 to the second state J2 and an impermeable tip closing outer surface 196; and (c) a cartridge mounting part. The impermeable tip closing outer surface 196 faces a raw water flow channel WG. The regulating part RG1 is located in a water purification channel WJ.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a water spout head with a water purification function, a water purification cartridge, and a water faucet device. [Background technology]

[0002] A shower head with a built-in water purification cartridge and a water purification function is known. Japanese Patent Publication No. 3454756 discloses a shower head with a water purification function that can switch between a raw water flow path that does not pass through the water purification cartridge and a purified water flow path that does pass through the water purification cartridge.

[0003] This type of water spouting head or a water faucet device equipped with such a water spouting head has an operating unit that allows switching between raw water and purified water. Examples of this operating unit include a push button, lever, dial, etc. In some cases, a display unit is also provided that indicates whether the water being spouted is raw water or purified water. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 3454756 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In order to stably hold the water purification cartridge inside the water spouting head, it is desirable to have a structure that allows a part of the water purification cartridge to be reliably pressed against the contact part on the water spouting head (referred to as the pressing part on the water spouting head) when the water purification cartridge is installed. Also, when inserting the cartridge, it is desirable that the leading tip part during insertion is thin.

[0006] One of the objects of the present invention is to provide a water purification cartridge that has a thin tip and that can press the pressing portion on the water spouting head when attached to the water spouting head. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the water purification cartridge has an intermediate portion that is a water purification function portion, a connection end portion located at the front end of the intermediate portion, and a rear forming portion located at the rear end of the intermediate portion. The connection end portion includes a first cylindrical portion that is the tip of the connection end portion and constitutes the tip end of the water purification cartridge, a second cylindrical portion located upstream of the first cylindrical portion and arranged coaxially with the first cylindrical portion, and a purified water outlet hole. The outer diameter of the first cylindrical portion is smaller than the outer diameter of the second cylindrical portion. The first cylindrical portion has an end face that constitutes the tip end surface of the water purification cartridge. The second cylindrical portion has a downstream end face. By using the first cylindrical portion as the tip end and making the outer diameter of the first cylindrical portion smaller than that of the second cylindrical portion located upstream, an end face (downstream end face) is formed on the downstream side of the second cylindrical portion, and this downstream end face can press against the pressing portion on the water spout head. Furthermore, by using the first cylindrical portion with a smaller outer diameter than the second cylindrical portion, the tip end of the water purification cartridge can be made thinner.

[0008] Another aspect may be a water spout head with a water purification function to which the water purification cartridge is attached, and a water faucet device equipped with the same. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] In one aspect, a water purification cartridge can be provided that has a thin tip and that can press a pressing portion on the water spouting head when attached to the water spouting head. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a water faucet device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view of the water spouting head in the faucet device of FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3(a) is a cross-sectional view of the water-spouting head taken along line aa in FIG. 3(b), and FIG. 3(b) is a cross-sectional view of the water-spouting head taken along line bb in FIG. 3(a). [Figure 4]FIG. 4(a) is a cross-sectional view of the water-spouting head taken along line aa in FIG. 4(b), and FIG. 4(b) is a cross-sectional view of the water-spouting head taken along line bb in FIG. 4(a). [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the water-spouting head of FIG. [Figure 6] Figure 6(a) is a perspective view of the regulating member, Figure 6(b) is a perspective view seen from a different angle than Figure 6(a), Figure 6(c) is a side view of the regulating member, and Figure 6(d) is a plan view of the regulating member. [Figure 7] Figure 7(a) is an oblique view of the ball holder of the purified water shutoff valve, Figure 7(b) is an oblique view from a different angle than Figure 7(a), Figure 7(c) is a side view of the ball holder, and Figure 7(d) is a plan view of the ball holder. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the water purification cartridge. [Figure 9] Figure 9(a) is a side view of the water purification cartridge, Figure 9(b) is a front view of the water purification cartridge, Figure 9(c) is a cross-sectional view along line cc in Figure 9(b), and Figure 9(d) is a cross-sectional view along line dd in Figure 9(b). [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of FIG. 9(c). [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of FIG. 9(d). [Figure 12] 12(a) is a perspective view of the transmission member, FIG. 12(b) is a perspective view from another angle, FIG. 12(c) is a front view of the transmission member, and FIG. 12(d) is a side view of the transmission member. [Figure 13] 13(a) is a perspective view of the receiving portion forming member, FIG. 13(b) is a side view of the receiving portion forming member, and FIG. 13(c) is a front view of the receiving portion forming member. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of FIG. 4(b). [Figure 15] Figure 15(a) is a side view showing the transmission member, regulating member, interlocking abutment portion, etc. in the non-attached state, and Figure 15(b) is a side view showing the state in which the operating portion is pressed from the state of Figure 15(a). [Figure 16]Figure 16(a) is a side view showing the transmission member, regulating member, interlocking abutment portion, etc. in the attached state, and Figure 16(b) is a side view showing the state in which the operating portion is pressed from the state of Figure 16(a). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail based on preferred embodiments, with appropriate reference to the drawings.

[0012] Unless otherwise specified, the radial direction in this application means the radial direction of the water purification cartridge when it is installed in the correct position. Unless otherwise specified, the axial direction in this application means the axial direction of the water purification cartridge when it is installed in the correct position.

[0013] Unless otherwise specified, the upstream side in this application refers to the upstream side in the water flow, and the downstream side refers to the downstream side in the water flow. Furthermore, in the water purification cartridge, the upstream side and downstream side are determined based on the axial direction. That is, in the water purification cartridge, the leading end side in the axial direction is the downstream side, and the trailing end side in the axial direction is the upstream side. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the downstream side is also referred to as the front, and the upstream side is also referred to as the rear.

[0014] In this application, the state in which the water purification cartridge is not attached to the cartridge attachment portion is also referred to as the "detached state." The state in which the water purification cartridge PC1 is attached to the cartridge attachment portion is also referred to as the "attached state." In the attached state, the water purification cartridge PC1 is attached in the correct position.

[0015] [Findings that formed the basis of this disclosure] In the above-mentioned type of faucet, the water purification cartridge is installed for a long time. As long as the water purification cartridge is installed, the restricting member and the derestriction unit do not move. In the faucet disclosed in PCT / JP2018 / 000349, the restricting member and the derestriction unit are kept in an immobile state (immobile state) for a long period of time.

[0016] When the device is left immobile for a long period of time, limescale and dirt easily accumulate on the restricting member, the deregulating portion, and their surrounding areas. This prolonged immobility also makes it easy for adhesion to occur between the restricting member and the deregulating portion, and between the restricting member and the support portion that supports it. This adhesion can lead to malfunction.

[0017] The present disclosure is based on this finding and discloses a configuration that can suppress malfunctions.

[0018] [First embodiment] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a faucet device 2 according to the first embodiment. The faucet device 2 is attached to a sink (not shown). In FIG. 1, parts that are not visible, i.e., parts inside the sink, are omitted. In addition to the sink, examples of places where the faucet device 2 can be installed include a washbasin and a bathroom.

[0019] The faucet device 2 has a main body 4, a lever handle 6, and a water discharge head 8. The faucet device 2 is a so-called single-lever faucet. The temperature of the water discharged can be adjusted by turning the lever handle 6 left and right. The amount of water discharged can be adjusted by turning the lever handle 6 up and down. A valve mechanism is built into the main body 4 that allows the temperature and amount of water discharged to be adjusted. This valve mechanism is well known.

[0020] Although not shown, a plumbing fixture having the plumbing device 2 has a hot water inlet pipe and a water inlet pipe. The hot water inlet pipe is connected to a pipe extending from a water heater, for example. The water inlet pipe is connected to a water supply pipe, for example, without passing through a water heater.

[0021] Heated hot water is introduced into the hot water inlet pipe. Heating is performed by a water heater. Unheated water is introduced into the water inlet pipe. The valve mechanism adjusts the mixing ratio of hot water and cold water. This mixing ratio achieves temperature control of the discharged water. In the following, heated hot water, unheated water, and their mixed liquid are also simply referred to as "water."

[0022] The water discharge head 8 has a water conducting section 10, a switching section 12, an operating section 14, a water shape adjusting section 16, a display section 20, and a discharge port 22. In this embodiment, the operating section 14 is a push button. The water conducting section 10 also functions as a grip. Examples of operating sections 14 other than push buttons include levers and dials. Lever operating sections and dial operating sections are well known.

[0023] The water shape adjustment unit 16 can change the shape of the water being discharged (water shape). The water shape adjustment unit 16 has a water shape adjustment lever 18. The water shape can be changed by operating the water shape adjustment lever 18. Two or more water shapes can be selected by operating the water shape adjustment lever 18. In a configuration where two water shapes can be selected, it is preferable to be able to choose between straight water shape and shower water shape. In a configuration where three water shapes can be selected, it is preferable to be able to choose between straight water shape and first and second shower water shapes with different shower water discharge modes, and this configuration is adopted in this embodiment. The shower water discharge mode refers to the shower water discharge range, shower water discharge volume, shower water discharge force, etc.

[0024] The water discharge head 8 has a raw water flow path and a purified water flow path. When the raw water flow path is selected, raw water is discharged from the discharge port 22. The state in which raw water is discharged is also referred to as the raw water discharge state. When the purified water flow path is selected, purified water is discharged from the discharge port 22. The state in which purified water is discharged is also referred to as the purified water discharge state.

[0025] The switching unit 12 has a switching mechanism that can switch between purified water and raw water by operating the operating unit 14. The details of this switching mechanism will be described later.

[0026] Fig. 2 is a front view of the water-spouting head 8. Figs. 3(a) and 3(b) are cross-sectional views of the water-spouting head 8 in an unattached state. Figs. 4(a) and 4(b) are cross-sectional views of the water-spouting head 8 in an attached state.

[0027] FIG. 3(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line aa in FIG. 3(b). FIG. 3(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line bb in FIG. 3(a). In FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b), the operating unit 14 is in the protruding position. FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b) show the raw water discharge state. Although not shown, raw water is discharged even when the water purification cartridge PC1 is attached when the operating unit 14 is in the protruding position. In normal use, the water purification cartridge PC1 is attached even in the raw water discharge state.

[0028] Figures 4(a) and 4(b) are cross-sectional views of the water-spouting head 8. Figure 4(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line aa in Figure 4(b). Figure 4(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line bb in Figure 4(a). In Figures 4(a) and 4(b), the operating unit 14 is in the pressed-in position. Figures 4(a) and 4(b) show the purified water discharging state.

[0029] The operating unit 14 functions as a switching button. When switching the flow path, the operating unit 14 is pressed. Each time the operating unit 14 is pressed, the flow path is switched between the raw water flow path and the purified water flow path. In other words, each time the operating unit 14 is pressed, the flow path is switched between the raw water discharge state and the purified water discharge state. As will be described later, the switching mechanism has an alternate operation type thrust lock mechanism. This thrust lock enables the push button operation of the operating unit 14. Each time the push button 14 is pressed, it moves between the extended position and the depressed position.

[0030] The position of the operating unit 14 when raw water is discharged is also referred to as the raw water discharge position. In this embodiment, the raw water discharge position is the pop-out position. The position of the operating unit 14 when purified water is discharged is also referred to as the purified water discharge position. In this embodiment, the purified water discharge position is the push-in position.

[0031] In this application, the operation direction of the push button 14 is the forward / backward direction. When pressed, the push button 14 moves rearward. The protruding position is forward of the depressed position. When moving between the protruding position and the depressed position, the maximum depression position is passed through. The maximum depression position is behind the depressed position. When the push button 14 is pressed in the protruding position, it passes through the maximum depression position and stops at the depressed position. A switching operation position is set at or just before the maximum depression position. When this switching operation position is reached, switching is enabled and the button moves to the depressed position. Even if the operation is released, the depressed position is maintained. When the push button 14 is pressed in the depressed position, it passes through the maximum depression position (switching operation position) and stops at the protruding position. Even if the operation is released, the protruding position is maintained.

[0032] In the water spouting head 8, when the push button 14 is in the extended position, the raw water flow path is selected. In the water spouting head 8, when the push button 14 is in the extended position, raw water is discharged. Conversely, when the push button 14 is in the extended position, purified water may be discharged. In the water spouting head 8, when the push button 14 is in the pressed-in position, the purified water flow path is selected. In the water spouting head 8, when the push button 14 is in the pressed-in position, purified water is discharged. Conversely, when the push button 14 is in the pressed-in position, raw water may be discharged.

[0033] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the water spouting head 8.

[0034] As shown in Figure 5, the water spouting head 8 has a water purification cartridge PC1. The water purification cartridge PC1 is arranged inside the outer cylinder portion 24. The water guide portion (holding portion) 10 described above has the outer cylinder portion 24 and the water purification cartridge PC1.

[0035] A raw water flow path WG is formed on the outside of the water purification cartridge PC1 (see Figure 4(a)). A purified water flow path WJ is formed inside the water purification cartridge PC1 (see Figure 4(a)). When in the raw water discharge state, raw water that has passed through the raw water flow path WG passes through the raw water flow path WG in the switching mechanism and is discharged from the discharge port 22. On the other hand, when in the purified water discharge state, the raw water is filtered as it passes from the outside to the inside of the water purification cartridge PC1 and becomes purified water. The purified water passes through the purified water flow path WJ inside the water purification cartridge PC1 and the purified water flow path WJ in the switching mechanism and is discharged from the discharge port 22.

[0036] Returning to FIG. 5, the water-spouting head 8 has a head main body 28 , an upper head cover 30 , and a lower head cover 32 .

[0037] The switching unit 12 of the water spout head 8 has a thrust lock mechanism 34. The thrust lock mechanism 34 is housed in the head body 28. The thrust lock mechanism 34 has a first switching top 36, a second switching top 38, a switching ring 40, a switching shaft 42, a coil spring 44, a switching cover 46, and an O-ring 48. The switching shaft 42 has push rods 50, 51, and a button holder 52. The switching cover 46 has a rear bottom 56 and a slit 58. The switching ring 40 is fixed to the front side of the switching cover 46. The switching shaft 42 moves in the front-to-rear direction while being guided by the slit 58. The second switching top 38 moves together with the switching shaft 42. The second switching top 38 and the switching shaft 42 move in the front-to-rear direction (reciprocating movement) in conjunction with the pressing operation of the operating unit 14. The coil spring 44 biases the switching cover 46 and the switching shaft 42 in directions separating them from each other. The first switching top 36 rotates every time the button is pressed, and can be held in two different positions.

[0038] The thrust lock mechanism 34 achieves alternate operation. The aforementioned Japanese Patent No. 3454756 also employs a thrust lock mechanism similar to that of this embodiment. Commonly known alternate operation thrust lock mechanisms include heart-shaped cam mechanisms, rotary cam mechanisms, and ratchet cam mechanisms. All of these mechanisms are well known. For example, any of these mechanisms can be employed as the thrust lock mechanism 34.

[0039] The water spout head 8 has a water shape switching section 70. The water shape switching section 70 has the water shape adjustment section 16, the water shape adjustment lever 18, and the discharge port 22. Furthermore, the water shape switching section 70 has a valve seat forming section 80.

[0040] The switching mechanism of the water spouting head 8 has the above-mentioned operating unit 14, a first valve V1, and a second valve V2. The water spouting is switched by opening and closing the two valves.

[0041] The first valve V1 has a valve seat 101a, a first valve body 101b, a ball holder 101c, and an elastic body 101d. The first valve V1 is a ball valve. The first valve body 101b is a ball. The valve seat 101a is the opening edge of a circular hole. The valve seat 101a is formed in the valve seat forming portion 80. The ball 101b is held by the ball holder 101c. The ball 101b and the elastic body 101d are housed in the ball holder 101c. The ball holder 101c is open downward. The elastic body 101d is arranged between the top of the ball holder 101c and the ball 101b. This elastic body 101d is a coil spring. The ball 101b is always biased toward the valve seat 101a by the elastic body 101d.

[0042] The second valve V2 has a valve seat 102a, a second valve body 102b, a ball holder 102c, and an elastic body 102d. The second valve V2 is a ball valve. The second valve body 102b is a ball. The valve seat 102a is the opening edge of a circular hole. The valve seat 102a is formed in the valve seat forming portion 80. The ball 102b is held by the ball holder 102c. The ball 102b and the elastic body 102d are housed in the ball holder 102c. The ball holder 102c is open downward. The elastic body 102d is disposed between the upper part of the ball holder 102c and the ball 102b. This elastic body 102d is a coil spring. The ball 102b is always biased toward the valve seat 102a by the elastic body 102d.

[0043] An end of the push rod 50 of the switching shaft 42 is connected to the ball holder 101c. An end of the push rod 51 of the switching shaft 42 is connected to the ball holder 102c. The ball holders 101c and 102c move in the front-rear direction together with the switching shaft 42. Furthermore, the ball 101b moves in the front-rear direction together with the ball holder 101c. The ball 102b moves in the front-rear direction together with the ball holder 102c. The switching shaft 42 moves in the front-rear direction together with the operating unit 14.

[0044] The valve seat 101a and the valve seat 102a are arranged side by side in a direction substantially perpendicular to the front-rear direction, but their positions in the front-rear direction are (slightly) different. The valve seat 101a is located behind the valve seat 102a.

[0045] When the operating unit 14 is in the extended position, the ball 102b fits into the valve seat 102a, and the second valve V2 closes. At this time, the center of the ball 101b is offset from the center of the valve seat 101a, so the first valve V1 is open. In this state, raw water is discharged. The second valve V2 is a purified water shutoff valve that closes the purified water flow path.

[0046] When the operating unit 14 is in the pressed position, the ball 101b fits into the valve seat 101a, and the first valve V1 closes. At this time, the center of the ball 102b is offset from the center of the valve seat 102a, so the second valve V2 is open. In this state, purified water is discharged. The first valve V1 is a raw water shutoff valve that closes the raw water flow path.

[0047] The water spouting head 8 has a regulating member RG1. The regulating member RG1 is arranged in the purified water flow path WJ. The regulating member RG1 is rotatably fixed. This regulating member RG1 serves to regulate switching to the purified water discharge state when the water purification cartridge PC1 is not installed.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 3(b), when the water purification cartridge PC1 is not attached, the regulating member RG1 is in a first state J1. As shown in FIG. 4(b), when the water purification cartridge PC1 is attached, the regulating member RG1 is in a second state J2. The mutual transition between the first state J1 and the second state J2 is achieved by the rotation of the regulating member RG1. The posture of the regulating member RG1 differs between the first state J1 and the second state J2. The first state J1 is the first posture of the regulating member RG1. The second state J2 is the second posture of the regulating member RG1.

[0049] The water spouting head 8 has a biasing member 104. The biasing member 104 biases the regulating member RG1 so that the regulating member RG1 is in a first state J1 (described below). In this embodiment, the biasing member 104 is a torsion spring (torsion coil spring). In this way, the regulating member RG1 is biased so that it is in the first state J1.

[0050] The ball holder 102c has an interlocking abutment portion LC1. The interlocking abutment portion LC1 is a rod-shaped portion. The rear end of the interlocking abutment portion LC1 is a free end. The interlocking abutment portion LC1 is interlocked with the movement of the operating unit 14. The interlocking abutment portion LC1 moves in the front-to-rear direction together with the operation of the operating unit 14. When the movement of the interlocking abutment portion LC1 is stopped, the operating unit 14 cannot be moved. When the movement of the interlocking abutment portion LC1 is stopped, the operating unit 14 cannot be operated.

[0051] The water spout head 8 has a transmission member TR1. The transmission member TR1 can move in the front-to-rear direction. When the water purification cartridge PC1 is attached, the transmission member TR1 moves forward. As the transmission member TR1 moves forward, it abuts against the regulating member RG1. This abutment causes the regulating member RG1 to transition from the first state J1 to the second state J2. The transmission member TR1 transmits to the regulating member RG1 that the water purification cartridge PC1 is attached (in the correct position).

[0052] The water spouting head 8 has a receiving portion forming member 106. The receiving portion forming member 106 is open toward the rear. A connection end (described later) of the water purification cartridge PC1 is watertightly connected to this receiving portion forming member 106. The receiving portion forming member 106 has a connection receiving portion (described later) that can be watertightly connected to the water purification cartridge PC1.

[0053] The water-spouting head 8 has a water-permeable member 108. The water-permeable member 108 is disposed in front of the tip surface of the water purification cartridge PC1. In this embodiment, the water-permeable member 108 is a net. This net is a metal net (mesh metal net).

[0054] Fig. 6(a) is a perspective view of the restricting member RG1. Fig. 6(b) is a perspective view of the restricting member RG1 seen from a different direction than Fig. 6(a). Fig. 6(c) is a side view of the restricting member RG1. Fig. 6(d) is a plan view of the restricting member RG1.

[0055] The restricting member RG1 has a shaft portion 110, a restricting release abutment portion 112, and a switching restricting portion 114. Furthermore, the restricting member RG1 has a first state maintaining portion 116. The shaft portion 110 is a rotation axis of the restricting member RG1.

[0056] The deregulation abutment 112 is located on one side of the shaft portion 110, and the switching restrictor 114 is located on the other side of the shaft portion 110. The deregulation abutment 112 is the end of a protrusion extending from the shaft portion 110 to one side. The switching restrictor 114 is the end of a protrusion extending from the shaft portion 110 to the other side. In the first state J1 (see FIG. 3(b)), the deregulation abutment 112 is located on the upstream side (rear) of the shaft portion 110, and the switching restrictor 114 is located on the downstream side (front) of the shaft portion 110.

[0057] FIG. 7(a) is a perspective view of the ball holder 102c. The ball holder 102c has a ball accommodating portion 130 and the interlocking abutment portion LC1 described above. The ball accommodating portion 130 is a cylindrical portion that is open at the bottom. The ball 102b is accommodated in the ball accommodating portion 130. The interlocking abutment portion LC1 is a rod-shaped portion that protrudes from the ball accommodating portion 130. The interlocking abutment portion LC1 extends in the front-rear direction. The interlocking abutment portion LC1 has an end face 132. The end face 132 is the rear end face of the interlocking abutment portion LC1.

[0058] Ball holder 102c has a connection part 134. Connection part 134 is connected to (the rear end part of) push rod 51 (see FIG. 5). Ball holder 101c also has a connection part similar to connection part 134, and this connection part is connected to (the rear end part of) push rod 50 (see FIG. 5).

[0059] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the water purification cartridge PC1. Fig. 9(a) is a side view of the water purification cartridge PC1, Fig. 9(b) is a front view of the water purification cartridge PC1, Fig. 9(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line cc in Fig. 9(b), and Fig. 9(d) is a cross-sectional view taken along line dd in Fig. 9(b).

[0060] The water purification cartridge PC1 has an intermediate portion 150, a connecting end portion 152 disposed at the front end of the intermediate portion 150, and a rear forming portion 154 disposed at the rear end of the intermediate portion 150. The connecting end portion 152 is coaxial with the intermediate portion 150. The rear forming portion 154 is coaxial with the intermediate portion 150.

[0061] The connection end 152 is provided downstream of the intermediate section 150. The connection end 152 has a hollow interior. This hollow functions as the purified water flow path WJ. That is, the connection end 152 has the purified water flow path WJ therein. The connection end 152 is made of resin. The connection end 152 is integral as a whole. The connection end 152 is integrally molded from resin. The connection end 152 may be formed by combining multiple components that have been molded separately.

[0062] The intermediate section 150 is cylindrical. The intermediate section 150 has a permeation section 151 that allows water to pass through. The intermediate section 150 has a filtering function. The intermediate section 150 has a hollow section therein. This hollow section functions as the purified water flow path WJ. The intermediate section 150 may have, for example, an outer filtration layer and an inner filtration layer. A water purification material may be disposed between the outer filtration layer and the inner filtration layer. The water purification material may be mainly composed of, for example, activated carbon. The outer filtration layer and the inner filtration layer may be made of, for example, nonwoven fabric. The outer filtration layer and / or the inner filtration layer may be made of ceramic having sterilizing properties. An ion exchanger may be used for the outer filtration layer and / or the inner filtration layer. The outer filtration layer may have multiple layers. The inner filtration layer may have multiple layers. Note that the intermediate section 150 of this embodiment is an example of a water purification function section (a section that exhibits a water purification function). The intermediate section 150 does not necessarily have a filtering function. The middle section 150 may be a water-impermeable cylindrical wall.

[0063] The water purification cartridge PC1 of this embodiment has a purification material capable of removing chlorine. An example of this purification material is activated carbon.

[0064] The rear forming portion 154 closes the rear side of the intermediate portion 150. On the other hand, water can pass through the connecting end portion 152. The internal space of the connecting end portion 152 is the purified water flow path WJ. The purified water generated after passing through the intermediate portion 150 passes through the connecting end portion 152 and reaches the switching portion 112.

[0065] The rear forming portion 154 may be water-permeable. For example, raw water may flow into the middle portion 150 from a through-hole provided in the rear forming portion 154 of the water purification cartridge PC1. In this case, the middle portion 150 may be a water-impermeable cylindrical wall portion.

[0066] The connection end 152 has a first cylindrical portion 160. The connection end 152 further has a second cylindrical portion 162. The connection end 152 further has a third cylindrical portion 164. The connection end 152 further has a holding cylindrical portion 166. The first cylindrical portion 160 is located downstream of the second cylindrical portion 162. The second cylindrical portion 162 is located downstream of the third cylindrical portion 164. The third cylindrical portion 164 is located downstream of the holding cylindrical portion 166. The second cylindrical portion 162 is located between the first cylindrical portion 160 and the third cylindrical portion 164. The first cylindrical portion 160 and the second cylindrical portion 162 are coaxial. The second cylindrical portion 162 and the third cylindrical portion 164 are coaxial. The third cylindrical portion 164 and the holding cylindrical portion 166 are coaxial. The center line of the first cylindrical portion 160 coincides with the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1. The center line of the second cylindrical portion 162 coincides with the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1. The center line of the third cylindrical portion 164 coincides with the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1. The center line of the holding cylindrical portion 166 coincides with the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1.

[0067] The connection end portion 152 has a first annular packing s1 and a second annular packing s2. In this embodiment, the first annular packing s1 is an O-ring. In this embodiment, the second annular packing s2 is an O-ring.

[0068] The connecting end portion 152 has a maximum outer diameter portion. In this embodiment, the maximum outer diameter portion of the connecting end portion 152 is a holding cylindrical portion 166. This maximum outer diameter portion (holding cylindrical portion 166) covers the downstream end portion of the intermediate portion 150. This maximum outer diameter portion (holding cylindrical portion 166) holds the downstream end portion of the intermediate portion 150.

[0069] The outer diameter of the first cylindrical portion 160 is smaller than the outer diameter of the second cylindrical portion 162. The outer diameter of the second cylindrical portion 162 is smaller than the outer diameter of the third cylindrical portion 164. The outer diameter of the third cylindrical portion 164 is smaller than the outer diameter of the holding cylindrical portion 166.

[0070] The connecting end portion 152 has a first annular packing s1 and a second annular packing s2. The first annular packing s1 is disposed in the first cylindrical portion 160. The second annular packing s2 is disposed in the second cylindrical portion 162.

[0071] Fig. 10 is a partially enlarged view of Fig. 9(c), and Fig. 11 is a partially enlarged view of Fig. 9(d).

[0072] The first cylindrical portion 160 constitutes the downstream end of the connection end portion 152. The first cylindrical portion 160 constitutes the downstream end of the water purification cartridge PC1.

[0073] The first cylindrical portion 160 constitutes the downstream end of the water purification cartridge PC1. The first cylindrical portion 160 constitutes the downstream end of the connecting end portion 152.

[0074] The connection end 152 has a tip portion 170. In this embodiment, the first cylindrical portion 160 is the tip portion 170. The portion forward of the purified water outlet hole 240 (described below) can be defined as the tip portion 170. The tip portion 170 has a first groove 172. The first groove 172 is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the tip portion 170 (first cylindrical portion 160). The first groove 172 is a circumferential groove. The first groove 172 is formed between a front wall portion 173a and a rear wall portion 173b. The front wall portion 173a forms the front side surface of the first groove 172. The rear wall portion 173b forms the rear side surface of the first groove 172.

[0075] The first annular packing s1 is disposed at the tip end portion 170. The first annular packing s1 is disposed in the first groove 172.

[0076] The tip portion 170 has a tip surface 174. The tip surface 174 is the tip surface of the water purification cartridge PC1. The tip surface 174 is the tip surface of the connection end portion 152. The tip surface 174 is flat. The tip surface 174 extends along the radial direction. The tip surface 174 is annular (see Figure 9 (b)). The tip surface 174 is provided over the entire circumferential direction. The center of the tip surface 174 is located on the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1. The tip surface 174 is not a derestriction portion DR1. The tip portion 170 does not have a derestriction portion DR1. The derestriction portion DR1 will be described later.

[0077] The tip portion 170 is impermeable to water. The inner surface of the tip portion 170 faces the purified water flow path WJ. In this embodiment, the inner surface of the tip portion 170 includes an inner surface 194 described below. The outer surface of the tip portion 170 faces the raw water flow path WG. In this embodiment, the outer surface of the tip portion 170 includes a tip surface 174 and a recess 176. The outer surface of the tip portion 170 has a recess 176. The inner and outer surfaces of the tip portion 170 are separated by a first annular packing s1. In other words, the water flow path that the inner surface of the tip portion contacts and the water flow path that the outer surface of the tip portion contacts are separated by the first annular packing s1. The center line of the tip portion 170 coincides with the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1. The tip portion 170 is positioned at a position that intersects with the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1.

[0078] The recess 176 is open to the downstream side. The recess 176 is open axially forward. The recess 176 is open to the raw water flow path WG. The recess 176 is water-impermeable. The cross-sectional shape of the recess 176 is circular (see Figure 9 (b)). The tip surface 174 is arranged around (radially outward from) the recess 176. The recess 176 forms a cavity inside the tip portion 170. The recess 176 forms a cylindrical cavity. The cavity formed by the recess 176 exists radially inward of the first annular gasket s1. The cavity formed by the recess 176 exists radially inward of the first groove 172. The center line of the tip surface 174 coincides with the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1.

[0079] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the recess 176 has a side surface 178 and a bottom surface 180. The side surface 178 is a circumferential surface. The side surface 178 is located radially inward of the first groove 172. The bottom surface 180 is flat. The bottom surface 180 extends along the radial direction. The bottom surface 180 is circular. The center of the bottom surface 180 is located on the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1.

[0080] A cavity is formed by the recessed portion 176 on the radially inner side of the first groove 172. A cavity is formed by the recessed portion 176 on the radially inner side of the bottom surface 172a.

[0081] The tip portion 170 has a partition wall 190. The partition wall 190 is water-impermeable. The partition wall 190 is located upstream of the tip surface 174. The partition wall 190 extends in the radial direction. The center line of the partition wall 190 coincides with the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1.

[0082] The partition wall 190 intersects with the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1. That is, the partition wall 190 is provided at a position where it intersects with the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1. In this embodiment, the partition wall 190 intersects with the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1 at its center. The partition wall 190 may intersect with the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1 at a position other than its center. The partition wall 190 forms the bottom surface 180 of the recess 176. The bottom surface 180 is the outer surface 192 of the partition wall 190. In this way, the outer surface of the tip portion 170 has a recess 176 whose bottom surface 180 is the outer surface 192 of the partition wall 190.

[0083] The partition wall 190 separates the inside and outside of the water purification cartridge PC1. An outer surface 192 of the partition wall 190 forms the outer surface of the water purification cartridge PC1. The outer surface 192 faces the raw water flow path WG. An inner surface 194 of the partition wall 190 forms the inner surface of the water purification cartridge PC1. The inner surface 194 faces the purified water flow path WJ.

[0084] The tip portion 170 has a tip blocking outer surface 196. The tip blocking outer surface 196 forms part of the outer surface of the tip portion 170. The tip blocking outer surface 196 is located downstream of the purified water outlet hole 240. The tip blocking outer surface 196 has a tip surface 174, a bottom surface 180 (outer surface 192) of the recess 176, and a side surface 178 of the recess 176. The tip blocking outer surface 196 has the recess 176. The tip blocking outer surface 196 does not have to have the recess 176. For example, the tip blocking outer surface 196 may be flat. The tip blocking outer surface 196 has a surface (outer surface 192) along the radial direction. The tip blocking outer surface 196 is located at a position that intersects with the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1. The tip blocking outer surface 196 is water-impermeable. The tip blocking outer surface 196 does not have a restriction release portion DR1 (described below).

[0085] The front end blocking outer surface 196 faces the raw water flow path WG. The downstream side of the front end blocking outer surface 196 is the raw water flow path WG. Meanwhile, the upstream side of the front end blocking outer surface 196 is the purified water flow path WJ. The upstream side of the front end blocking outer surface 196 is the interior of the water purification cartridge PC1.

[0086] The connection end portion 152 has a connecting extension portion 200. The connecting extension portion 200 connects the first cylindrical portion 160 and the second cylindrical portion 162. As shown in FIG. 9(b), multiple connecting extension portions 200 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. In this embodiment, four connecting extension portions 200 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The connecting extension portions 200 extend in a direction inclined with respect to the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1. The connecting extension portions 200 extend radially inward as they extend downstream. The connecting extension portion 200 connects the downstream side of the second cylindrical portion 162 and the upstream side of the first cylindrical portion 160.

[0087] The second cylindrical portion 162 has a second groove 210. The second groove 210 is a circumferential groove. The second groove 210 is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the second cylindrical portion 162. A second annular gasket s2 is disposed in the second groove 210. The interior of the second cylindrical portion 162 is hollow. The interior of the second cylindrical portion 162 is the purified water flow path WJ.

[0088] The second cylindrical portion 162 has a downstream end surface 212. The downstream end surface 212 is a flat surface. The downstream end surface 212 extends along the radial direction. The downstream end surface 212 is annular. The downstream end surface 212 is formed over the entire circumferential direction.

[0089] The downstream end surface 212 may be of a first type in which it is formed continuously and without interruption in the entire circumferential direction. The downstream end surface 212 may be of a second type in which it is formed by partitioned portions separated by the connecting extension portions 200 lined up in the circumferential direction. The downstream end surface 212 may be of a third type in which it has a portion formed continuously and without interruption in the entire circumferential direction and a portion in which partitioned portions separated by the connecting extension portions 200 line up in the circumferential direction. In this embodiment, the downstream end surface 212 is formed by four partitioned portions 214 separated by the connecting extension portions 200 lined up in the circumferential direction, that is, it is of the second type.

[0090] In both the second and third configurations, the smaller the width of the connecting extension portion 200, the larger the area of ​​the dividing portion 214 that becomes the deregulation portion DR1. The larger the area of ​​the dividing portion 214, the better the alignment, contact, and accuracy of the contact positional relationship between the deregulation portion DR1 and a component (the transmission member TR1 in this embodiment) that abuts against the deregulation portion DR1 to form part of the deregulation function, resulting in an improved deregulation function. From this perspective, the width of the connecting extension portion 200 is preferably 5.0 mm or less, more preferably 3 mm or less, and particularly preferably 2.5 mm or less. If the width of the connecting extension portion 200 is too small, the strength of the connecting extension portion 200 is likely to decrease. From this perspective, the width of the connecting extension portion 200 is preferably 0.5 mm or more, more preferably 1 mm or more, and particularly preferably 1.5 mm or more. The width of the connecting extension portion 200 is measured in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the connecting extension portion extending radially. If the width varies, the average width is used. In this embodiment, the width of the connecting extension 200 is 2 mm.

[0091] In Figure 11, the double-headed arrow P indicates the diameter at the radial center position of the dividing section 214 (deregulation section DR1). If this diameter P is too small, the flow rate of purified water is likely to decrease. From this perspective, the diameter P is preferably 10 mm or more, more preferably 12 mm or more, and even more preferably 15 mm or more. If the diameter P is too large, the water purification cartridge PC1 and the water discharge head 108 will become larger, and the faucet will likely become larger. From this perspective, the diameter P is preferably 22 mm or less, more preferably 20 mm or less, and even more preferably 17 mm or less. In the above embodiment, the diameter P is 15 mm.

[0092] In the second or third configuration, the same radial area is shared by the derestriction portion DR1 and the connecting extension portion 200. In this case, the water purification cartridge PC1 and the water spout head 108 are prevented from becoming larger, which would otherwise lead to an increase in the size of the faucet. From this perspective, it is preferable to adopt the second or third configuration.

[0093] The choice between the second and third configurations should be made based on the strength of the derestriction unit DR1 and the need for the aforementioned improved derestriction function. The second configuration should be adopted when priority is given to preventing the water purification cartridge PC1 and the water discharge head 108 from becoming larger, thereby increasing the size of the faucet. The third configuration should be adopted when consideration must be given to both the strength of the derestriction unit DR1 and the need for the aforementioned improved derestriction function.

[0094] In FIG. 11, the double-headed arrow Q1 indicates the radial width of the downstream end surface 212 (restriction release portion DR1). If the radial width Q1 is small, the aforementioned improvement in the release function is likely to be insufficient. From this perspective, the radial width Q1 is preferably 1.0 mm or more, more preferably 2.0 mm or more, and particularly preferably 2.5 mm or more. Furthermore, if the radial width Q1 is too large, the water purification cartridge PC1 and the water discharge head 108 will become larger, which will likely result in an increased faucet size or a narrower water purification outlet hole 240. From this perspective, the radial width Q1 is preferably 6.0 mm or less, more preferably 5.0 mm or less, and particularly preferably 4.0 mm or less. In the second and third forms, the radial width Q1 is the radial width of the dividing portion 214.

[0095] In the third embodiment, the downstream end surface 212 has a continuous portion that is formed continuously and uninterruptedly in the entire circumferential direction, and a portion where partitions separated by the connecting extension portion 200 are arranged in the circumferential direction. If the value of the ratio (Q2 / Q1), which is the ratio of the radial width Q2 of the continuous portion to the radial width Q1, is too small, the aforementioned effect of improving the release function tends to be insufficient. From this perspective, the value of the ratio (Q2 / Q1) is preferably 0.2 or more, more preferably 0.4 or more, and particularly preferably 0.6 or more. If the value of the ratio (Q2 / Q1) is too large, the strength of the connecting extension portion 200 tends to decrease. From this perspective, the value of the ratio (Q2 / Q1) is preferably 0.9 or less, more preferably 0.8 or less, and particularly preferably 0.7 or less.

[0096] The connecting extension portion 200 has an extension portion downstream surface 202. The extension portion downstream surface 202 is the downstream surface of the connecting extension portion 200. The extension portion downstream surface 202 has a configuration 1 in which it extends radially inward as it goes downstream. With this configuration 1, when the connecting end portion 152 of the water purification cartridge PC1 is inserted into the connecting receiving portion of the cartridge mounting part, the portion of the connecting receiving portion 274 that comes into contact with the extension portion downstream surface 202 is displaced in a direction in which the center line of the connecting end portion 152 and the center line of the connecting receiving portion coincide with each other. As a result, it is possible to prevent damage to the connecting end portion 152 and each portion of the connecting receiving portion, and Effect 1 is achieved in which operability is improved when inserting the connecting end portion 152 of the water purification cartridge PC1 into the connecting receiving portion.

[0097] On the other hand, the downstream end surface 212 has configuration 2 in that it extends radially, i.e., is a surface perpendicular to the axial direction. As will be described later, the water spouting head 8 has a transmission member TR1 that is pressed against the water purification cartridge PC1 when the connection end 152 of the water purification cartridge PC1 is inserted into the connection receiving portion 274. The downstream end surface 212 is the derestriction portion DR1. Because the derestriction portion DR1 extends radially, i.e., is a surface perpendicular to the axial direction, effect 2 is achieved, in that the pressing portion can be pressed accurately and / or satisfactorily. This effect 2 is achieved by the radial extension of the derestriction portion DR1.

[0098] Although the above-mentioned configuration 1 and the above-mentioned configuration 2 are arranged in the same axial region of the connection end 152, it is possible to achieve both effect 1 and effect 2. Furthermore, because both configurations are arranged in the same axial region of the connection end 152, it is possible to prevent the water spout head with water purification function, the water purification cartridge, and the faucet device from becoming larger, and to increase the area in which the purification function unit can be arranged.

[0099] The third cylindrical portion 164 has a circumferential surface 220 and a stepped surface 222. The circumferential surface 220 is a circumferential surface. The center line of the circumferential surface 220 is the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1. The stepped surface 222 is a flat surface. The stepped surface 222 extends in the radial direction. The stepped surface 222 is annular. The stepped surface 222 is formed over the entire circumferential direction. The interior of the third cylindrical portion 164 is the purified water flow path WJ.

[0100] The holding cylindrical portion 166 has a circumferential surface 230 and a stepped surface 232. The circumferential surface 230 is a circumferential surface. The center line of the circumferential surface 230 is the center line z1 of the water purification cartridge PC1. The stepped surface 232 is a flat surface. The stepped surface 232 extends along the radial direction. The stepped surface 232 is annular. The stepped surface 232 is formed over the entire circumferential direction. The stepped surface 232 connects the upstream side of the circumferential surface 220 and the downstream side of the circumferential surface 230.

[0101] The connection end 152 has a purified water outlet hole 240. Purified water produced in the water purification cartridge PC1 is discharged from the purified water outlet hole 240 to the outside of the water purification cartridge PC1. The first annular packing s1 is located downstream of the purified water outlet hole 240. The second annular packing s2 is located upstream of the purified water outlet hole 240. The purified water outlet hole 240 is located between the first annular packing s1 and the second annular packing s2. The purified water outlet hole 240 is located between the first cylindrical portion 160 (tip portion 170) and the second cylindrical portion 162. The first cylindrical portion 160 is spaced from the second cylindrical portion 162, and this separation forms the purified water outlet hole 240. The purified water outlet hole 240 is formed between two circumferentially adjacent connecting extension portions 200.

[0102] In FIG. 11, the double-headed arrow G1 indicates the outer diameter of the first annular packing s1. The outer diameter G1 is measured when the first annular packing s1 is attached to the first groove 172 and the water purification cartridge PC1 is not attached to the water-spouting head 8. In other words, the outer diameter G1 is measured when the water purification cartridge PC1 is alone. In FIG. 11, the double-headed arrow G2 indicates the outer diameter of the second annular packing s2. The outer diameter G2 is measured when the second annular packing s2 is attached to the second groove 210 and the water purification cartridge PC1 is not attached to the water-spouting head 8. In other words, the outer diameter G2 is measured when the water purification cartridge PC1 is alone. Note that when the diameter of the bottom surface of the groove varies, such as the bottom surface 172a of the first groove 172, the outer diameters G1 and G2 of the annular packings are measured when the annular packing is positioned at the position where the outer diameter of the bottom surface of the groove is greatest. The outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing s1 is smaller than the outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing s2.

[0103] By making the outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing s1 smaller than the outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing s2, the radial width and / or area of ​​the downstream end face 212, which is the deregulation portion DR1, can be increased, and even if there are manufacturing errors in the parts or changes over time due to use, the contact (interaction) between the deregulation portion DR1 and the cartridge abutment surface 254 of the transmission member TR1 can function well.

[0104] If the difference (G2-G1), which is the value of (outer diameter G2 - outer diameter G1), is too small, it becomes difficult to ensure sufficient radial width and / or area of ​​the downstream end face 212, which is the deregulation portion DR1. From this perspective, the difference (G2-G1) is preferably 3 mm or more, more preferably 4 mm or more, and even more preferably 6 mm or more. If the difference (G2-G1) is too large, the water purification cartridge PC1 and the water spout head 108 will become larger, and the faucet will likely become larger. From this perspective, the difference (G2-G1) is preferably 15 mm or less, more preferably 12 mm or less, and even more preferably 10 mm or less. In the above embodiment, the difference (G2-G1) is 7.8 mm.

[0105] If the ratio (G2 / G1) between the outer diameter G2 and the outer diameter G1 is too small, it becomes difficult to ensure sufficient radial width and / or area of ​​the downstream end surface 212, which is the deregulation portion DR1. From this perspective, G2 / G1 is preferably 1.2 or more, more preferably 1.3 or more, and even more preferably 1.5 or more. If G2 / G1 is too large, the water purification cartridge PC1 and the water discharge head 108 will become larger, and the faucet will likely become larger. From this perspective, G2 / G1 is preferably 2.5 or less, more preferably 2.3 or less, and even more preferably 1.9 or less. In the above embodiment, G2 / G1 is 1.7.

[0106] Furthermore, if the outer diameter G1 of the first annular gasket s1 is too small, the strength of the tip of the water purification cartridge PC1 is likely to decrease, and the watertightness of the first annular gasket s1 is likely to decrease. From this perspective, the outer diameter G1 is preferably 7 mm or more, more preferably 9 mm or more, and even more preferably 10 mm or more. If the outer diameter G1 is too large, the water purification cartridge PC1 and the water spout head 108 will become larger, and the faucet will likely become larger. From this perspective, the outer diameter G1 is preferably 18 mm or less, more preferably 15 mm or less, and even more preferably 13 mm or less. In the above embodiment, the outer diameter G1 is 11 mm.

[0107] Furthermore, if the outer diameter G2 of the second annular gasket s2 is too small, the flow rate of purified water is likely to decrease. From this perspective, the outer diameter G2 is preferably 12 mm or more, more preferably 14 mm or more, and even more preferably 16 mm or more. If the outer diameter G2 is too large, the water purification cartridge PC1 and the water spout head 108 will become larger, and the faucet will likely become larger. From this perspective, the outer diameter G2 is preferably 25 mm or less, more preferably 23 mm or less, and even more preferably 21 mm or less. In the above embodiment, the outer diameter G2 is 18.8 mm.

[0108] Fig. 12(a) is a perspective view of the transmission member TR1. Fig. 12(b) is a perspective view of the transmission member TR1 seen from an angle different from that of Fig. 12(a). Fig. 12(c) is a front view of the transmission member TR1 seen from the front. Fig. 12(d) is a side view of the transmission member TR1.

[0109] The transmission member TR1 has a base 250 and a rear extending portion 252. The rear extending portion 252 is connected to the base 250 and extends rearward. A plurality (three) of the rear extending portions 252 are provided. Each of the plurality (three) of the rear extending portions 252 extends from a different position on the base 250. The plurality (three) of the rear extending portions 252 are disposed in a dispersed manner in the circumferential direction. Each of the rear extending portions 252 extends rearward from the base 250. The rear end of each of the rear extending portions 252 is a free end.

[0110] In this embodiment, the rear extensions 252 are legs 253. The legs 253 have an elongated shape, and the cross-sectional area of ​​each leg 253 is small. From the viewpoint of the flow rate of purified water, the cross-sectional area of ​​one leg 253 (one rear extension 252) is set to 15 mm 2 Less than 10mm is preferable 2 Less than 5mm is more preferable. 2 From the viewpoint of the strength of the leg portions 253 (rear extension portions 252), the cross-sectional area of ​​one leg portion 253 (one rear extension portion 252) is particularly preferably 1 mm 2 More than 2mm is preferable. 2 More preferably, 3 mm or more 2In this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​one leg portion 253 (one rearward extending portion 252) is 3.8 mm 2 This cross-sectional area is the cross-sectional area of ​​the water purification cartridge PC1 in a cross section perpendicular to the center line z1.

[0111] The transmission member TR1 has a cartridge abutment surface 254. Each of the rear extension portions 252 has a cartridge abutment surface 254. In this embodiment, the cartridge abutment surface 254 is the rear end surface of the rear extension portion 252. As shown in FIG. 12(d), the axial positions of the multiple (three) cartridge abutment surfaces 254 are the same.

[0112] The base portion 250 has a guide hole 256. The guide hole 256 penetrates the base portion 250. The guide hole 256 is a through hole that extends in the axial direction.

[0113] The transmission member TR1 has a release abutment surface 260. The release abutment surface 260 is provided on the base 250. The front surface of the base 250 has the release abutment surface 260.

[0114] Figure 13(a) is a perspective view of the receiving portion forming member 106. Figure 13(b) is a side view of the receiving portion forming member 106. Figure 13(c) is a front view of the receiving portion forming member 106 as seen from the front.

[0115] Fig. 14 is a partially enlarged view of Fig. 4(b), including a cross-sectional view of the receiver-forming member 106.

[0116] The receiver-forming member 106 is disposed inside the water-spouting head 8. The receiver-forming member 106 constitutes a connecting receiver (described later). The configuration of the receiver-forming member 106 will be described below with reference to Figures 13 and 14.

[0117] The water spouting head 8 has a cartridge mounting portion 270. The cartridge mounting portion 270 has a cylindrical hollow portion 272 (see Figure 3) in which the middle portion of the water purification cartridge PC1 is disposed, and a connection receiving portion 274 (see Figure 14). As shown in Figures 3(a) and 3(b), the cylindrical hollow portion 272 is formed inside the outer tube portion 24. The connection receiving portion 274 is provided in front of the cylindrical hollow portion 272. In this embodiment, the receiving portion forming member 106 has the connection receiving portion 274.

[0118] 14, the connection receiving portion 274 has a first receiving cylindrical portion 276 and a second receiving cylindrical portion 278. The first receiving cylindrical portion 276 is located closer to the axial tip than the second receiving cylindrical portion 278. The first receiving cylindrical portion 276 is located downstream than the second receiving cylindrical portion 278. The inner diameter of the first receiving cylindrical portion 276 is smaller than the inner diameter of the second receiving cylindrical portion 278. The outer diameter of the first receiving cylindrical portion 276 is smaller than the inner diameter of the second receiving cylindrical portion 278.

[0119] As shown in FIG. 14, the connection end 152 of the water purification cartridge PC1 is watertightly connected to the connection receiving portion 274. A first annular packing s1 and a second annular packing s2 ensure watertightness. The first cylindrical portion 160 (tip portion 170) of the connection end 152 is inserted into the first cylindrical receiving portion 276. The first annular packing s1 is in close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the first cylindrical receiving portion 276. The second cylindrical portion 162 of the connection end 152 is inserted into the second cylindrical receiving portion 278. The second annular packing s2 is in close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the second cylindrical receiving portion 278. The end face 280 of the second cylindrical receiving portion 278 abuts against the stepped surface 222. This abutment positions the water purification cartridge PC1 in the axial direction.

[0120] 13(a), the receiving portion-forming member 106 has an outer cylindrical portion 106a. The outer cylindrical portion 106a has a small-diameter outer wall portion 106b and a large-diameter outer wall portion 106c. The large-diameter outer wall portion 106c constitutes a second receiving cylindrical portion 278. An end surface 280 of the second receiving cylindrical portion 278 is formed by the rear end surface of the receiving portion-forming member 106.

[0121] The connection receiver 274 has a purified water passage WJ1 that separates the purified water flowing out of the purified water outlet hole 240 from the raw water flow path WG and forms part of the purified water flow path WJ (see FIG. 14). The purified water passage WJ1 is the space between the first receiving cylindrical portion 276 and the second receiving cylindrical portion 278, which is the purified water passage WJ1. The connection receiver 274 also has a raw water passage WG1 that separates the raw water from the purified water passage WJ1 and forms part of the raw water flow path WG (see FIG. 14). The connection receiver 274 has raw water openings 282 that serve as the inlet and outlet to the raw water passage WG1 (see FIGS. 13(a) and 13(b)). Although not shown, two raw water openings 282 are provided, one on each of the left and right sides of the receiver-forming member 106. The raw water passage WG1 penetrates the receiving portion forming member 106 by penetrating from the first raw water opening 282 to the second raw water opening 282. Raw water can flow through the raw water passage WG1. The raw water passage WG1 forms a raw water flow path WG that penetrates in the radial direction (left and right direction). The raw water passage WG1 guides the raw water to the front closed outer surface 196 of the water purification cartridge PC1. The raw water passage WG1 guides the raw water to the front end surface 174 of the water purification cartridge PC1. The raw water passage WG1 guides the raw water to the recess 176. The front closed outer surface 196 faces the raw water flow path WG. The recess 176 faces the raw water flow path WG. The first annular gasket s1 and the second annular gasket s2 prevent the purified water coming out of the purified water outlet hole 240 from flowing into the raw water flow path WG. The first annular packing s1 prevents water from the raw water passage WG1 from flowing into the purified water flow path WJ. The second annular packing s2 prevents water from the raw water flow path WG from flowing into the outlet of the purified water outlet hole 240. The second annular packing s2 prevents purified water from the purified water outlet hole 240 from flowing into the raw water flow path WG.

[0122] A water-permeable member 108 is installed downstream of the tip blocking outer surface 196 (recess 176). The water-permeable member 108 is arranged opposite the tip surface 174. The water-permeable member 108 is installed facing the raw water passage WG1. The water-permeable member 108 is arranged between the raw water passage WG1 and the tip blocking outer surface 196. The water-permeable member 108 is arranged between the raw water passage WG1 and the recess 176. The water-permeable member 108 does not obstruct the flow of the raw water flow path WG. The water flow of the raw water passage WG1 can hit the tip blocking outer surface 196. The water flow of the raw water passage WG1 can flow into the recess 176. The water-permeable member 108 can prevent foreign matter from entering the raw water passage WG1.

[0123] As shown in Figure 13(c), the receiving portion-forming member 106 has an inner cylindrical portion 106d. The inner cylindrical portion 106d constitutes the first receiving cylindrical portion 276 (see Figure 14). The purified water passage WJ1 described above is formed between the inner cylindrical portion 106d and the outer cylindrical portion 106a.

[0124] 13(a) and 13(b), the water spouting head 8 (receiving portion forming member 106) has a restricting member support portion 106e. The restricting member support portion 106e rotatably supports the restricting member RG1 (the shaft portion 110 thereof).

[0125] As shown in Figures 13(a), 13(c), and 14, the water spouting head 8 (receiving portion forming member 106) has a slide protrusion 106f. The slide protrusion 106f extends along the axial direction. The slide protrusion 106f extends forward. The slide protrusion 106f passes through the guide hole 256 of the transmission member TR1 (see Figures 14 and 12).

[0126] As shown in Figure 13(c), the water spouting head 8 (receiving portion-forming member 106) has a gap 106g. The gap 106g is formed between the outer cylindrical portion 106a and the inner cylindrical portion 106d. The gap 106g forms a cylindrical space. The gap 106g is formed along the circumferential direction of the outer cylindrical portion 106a. The rearward extending portion 252 of the transmitting member TR1 is inserted into this gap 106g. All of the multiple (three) rearward extending portions 252 are inserted into the gap 106g. As a result, the transmitting member TR1 holds the first receiving cylindrical portion 276 (inner cylindrical portion 106d) by the multiple (three) rearward extending portions 252. The transmitting member TR1 is supported from the inside by the first receiving cylindrical portion 276 (inner cylindrical portion 106d) in a state in which it can move in the front-to-rear direction. The transmission member TR1 is supported by the inner cylindrical portion 106d and the outer cylindrical portion 106a in a state in which it can move in the front-rear direction. Furthermore, as described above, the slide protrusion 106f is inserted into the guide hole 256. The guide hole 256 can slide while being guided by the slide protrusion 106f. That is, the transmission member TR1 is supported by the slide protrusion 106f in a state in which it can move in the front-rear direction.

[0127] The gap 106g forms a purified water passage WJ1. In other words, the gap 106g is the purified water flow path WJ. The transmitting member TR1 is disposed in the purified water flow path WJ. The transmitting member TR1 disposed in the purified water flow path WJ can easily come into contact with the restricting member RG1 disposed in the purified water flow path WJ.

[0128] By configuring the rearward extending portions 252 of the transmitting member TR1 as the multiple leg portions 253 shown in this embodiment, spaces are generated between the rearward extending portions 252, and these spaces become the purified water flow path WJ, which helps to ensure the flow rate of purified water. In other words, the transmitting member TR1 has a base 250 having a release abutment surface 260, and rearward extending portions 252 that extend rearward from the base 250 and terminate at the cartridge abutment surface 254, and a configuration in which a space portion that forms part of the purified water flow path WJ is provided between the rearward extending portions 252 helps to ensure the flow rate of purified water.

[0129] 15(a) and 15(b) show the restricting member RG1, the transmitting member TR1, the interlocking abutment portion LC1, and the like when the water purification cartridge PC1 is not installed. The receiver-forming member 106 is omitted from FIGS. 15(a) and 15(b). As shown in FIG. 15(a), in this uninstalled state, the restricting member RG1 is in the first position J1. As described above, the restricting member RG1 is biased by the biasing member 104 in the rotational direction toward the first position J1. In the uninstalled state, the transmitting member TR1 is not pressed from the rear. In this uninstalled state, the transmitting member TR1 is in the rear position P1. Even if the transmitting member TR1 is positioned forward of the rear position P1, unless the water purification cartridge PC1 is installed, the transmitting member TR1 is pushed back to the rear position P1 by the restricting member RG1 biased by the biasing member 104.

[0130] As shown in FIG. 15(b), when the restricting member RG1 is in the first state J1 and an attempt is made to move the operating unit 14 from the extended position to the retracted position, the interlocking abutment LC1, which is interlocked with the operating unit 14, abuts against the restricting member RG1 in the first state J1. That is, the end face 132 of the interlocking abutment LC1 abuts against the switching restricting portion 114 of the restricting member RG1. This abutment prevents the operating unit 14 from reaching the switching actuation position. As a result, the operation of moving the operating unit 14 to the retracted position is hindered. Even if the operating unit 14 is pressed, it cannot be moved to the retracted position. In this way, the restricting member RG1 in the first state J1 restricts the switching mechanism from switching from raw water to purified water.

[0131] The water spouting head 8 has a retaining abutment 296 that abuts against the regulating member RG1 in the first state J1 (see FIG. 3(b)). In this embodiment, the retaining abutment 296 is a slide protrusion 106f (see FIGS. 13(a) and 13(c)). In the first state J1, the retaining abutment 296 abuts against the first state retaining portion 116 of the regulating member RG1 (see FIG. 6(c)). The abutment between the first state retaining portion 116 and the retaining abutment 296 is configured to prevent rotation of the regulating member RG1 in the first direction, which occurs when the switching regulating portion 114 is pressed by the interlocking abutment LC1. In FIG. 3(b), when the switching regulating portion 114 is pressed by the interlocking abutment LC1, the regulating member RG1 attempts to rotate clockwise, but the abutment between the first state retaining portion 116 and the retaining abutment 296 prevents this clockwise (first direction) rotation.

[0132] 16(a) and 16(b) show the regulating member RG1, transmission member TR1, interlocking abutment portion LC1, etc. when the water purification cartridge PC1 is installed. The receiver-forming member 106 is also omitted from FIGS. 16(a) and 16(b). As shown in FIG. 16(a), in this installed state, the regulating member RG1 is in the second state J2. The water purification cartridge PC1, installed in the correct position, presses the transmission member TR1 forward. That is, the downstream end surface 212 of the water purification cartridge PC1 presses the cartridge abutment surface 254 of the transmission member TR1. This pressure causes the transmission member TR1 to move forward. This pressure causes the transmission member TR1 to move to a forward position P2, which is forward of the rear position P1. As the transmission member TR1 moves to the forward position P2, it rotates the regulating member RG1. The release abutment surface 260 of the transmission member TR1 presses the restriction release abutment portion 112 of the restriction member RG1, causing the restriction member RG1 to rotate. This rotation is in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The retention abutment portion 296 does not prevent the restriction member RG1 from rotating in the second direction in the first state J1. In this way, the transmission member TR1 moves to the forward position P2, transitioning the restriction member RG1 to the second state J2. The transition from the first state J1 to the second state J2 is achieved by rotation of the restriction member RG1 around the shaft portion 110. This rotation is performed against the biasing force of the biasing member 104.

[0133] As shown in FIG. 16(b), when the regulating member RG1 is in the second state J2, the operating unit 14 is allowed to move from the protruding position to the pushed-in position. Even when the operating unit 14 reaches the switching actuation position, the interlocking abutment portion LC1 is not interfered with by the regulating member RG1. In other words, the end face 132 of the interlocking abutment portion LC1 does not abut against the switching regulating portion 114 of the regulating member RG1. As a result, the operating unit 14 is allowed to move to the pushed-in position, and the purified water discharge state is achieved. In this way, the regulating member RG1 in the second state J2 allows the switching mechanism to switch from raw water to purified water.

[0134] The switching restricting portion 114 of the restricting member RG1 is in a first position in the first state J1, and in a second position in the second state J2. In this embodiment, the mutual transition between the first position and the second position is achieved by rotating the restricting member RG1. The switching restricting portion 114 in the first position abuts against the interlocking abutment portion LC1 that interlocks with the switching mechanism during the process of switching from raw water to purified water by the switching mechanism (see FIG. 15(b)). The switching restricting portion 114 in the second position does not abut against the interlocking abutment portion LC1 during the process of switching from raw water to purified water by the switching mechanism (see FIG. 16(b)).

[0135] The method of transition between the first state J1 and the second state J2 is not limited to rotation of the restricting member RG1. Other examples include rotation, translation (translation), translation accompanied by rotation, etc. The state change between the first state J1 and the second state J2 is not limited as long as the purpose of the first state J1 and the second state J2 is achieved. That is, the first state J1 only needs to restrict the switching mechanism from switching from raw water to purified water, and the second state J2 only needs to allow the switching mechanism to switch from raw water to purified water.

[0136] The water purification cartridge PC1 has a derestriction portion DR1 that transitions the restricting member from the first state J1 to the second state J2. In the above embodiment, the downstream end surface 212 (the dividing portion 214) is the derestriction portion DR1 (see FIGS. 8 and 16(a) and (b)).

[0137] The derestriction portion DR1 is the surface facing forward. The derestriction portion DR1 is present in the front view (Figure 9(b)) of the water purification cartridge PC1 seen from the front. The derestriction portion DR1 is located upstream of the first annular gasket s1. The derestriction portion DR1 is located downstream of the second annular gasket s2. It is located between the first annular gasket s1 and the second annular gasket s2. The derestriction portion DR1 is arranged in the purified water flow path WJ. The derestriction portion DR1 faces the purified water flow path WJ.

[0138] The derestriction portion DR1 abuts against the transmission member TR1. As shown in FIG. 16(a), when the water purification cartridge PC1 is installed in the correct position, the derestriction portion DR1 presses the transmission member TR1 forward. That is, the derestriction portion DR1 presses against the cartridge abutment surface 254 of the transmission member TR1. This pressure causes the transmission member TR1 to move forward. This pressure causes the transmission member TR1 to move to a forward position P2, which is forward of the rear position P1. As the transmission member TR1 moves to the forward position P2, it rotates the restriction member RG1. The release abutment surface 260 of the transmission member TR1 presses against the derestriction abutment portion 112 of the restriction member RG1, causing the restriction member RG1 to rotate. The derestriction portion DR1 does not directly abut against the restriction member RG1. The derestriction portion DR1 transitions the restriction member RG1 to the second state J2 via the transmission member TR1.

[0139] When switching from raw water to purified water, the raw water shutoff valve V1 is closed. The moment the raw water shutoff valve V1 is closed and the flow of raw water is cut off, a water hammer or high water pressure occurs. This water hammer or high water pressure starts near the raw water shutoff valve V1 and propagates upstream along the raw water flow path WG.

[0140] The same applies when switching from purified water to raw water. When switching from purified water to raw water, the purified water shutoff valve V2 is closed. The moment the purified water shutoff valve V2 is closed and the flow of purified water is cut off, a water hammer or high water pressure occurs. This water hammer or high water pressure starts near the purified water shutoff valve V2 and propagates upstream along the purified water flow path WJ.

[0141] The water hammer or high water pressure reaches the downstream side of the tip portion 170 of the water purification cartridge PC1. The water hammer or high water pressure reaches the tip occluded outer surface 196 and applies pressure to the tip occluded outer surface 196. This pressure causes the water purification cartridge PC1 to swing (vibrate). This swing also causes the transmission member TR1 and the regulating member RG1, which are linked to the movement of the water purification cartridge PC1, to vibrate. These vibrations can prevent adhesion between the components.

[0142] If the restricting member RG1 is placed in the raw water flow path WG, dirt and other contaminants will adhere to the restricting member RG1, which is likely to cause malfunctions. Similarly, if the deregulating unit DR1 is placed in the raw water flow path WG, dirt and other contaminants will adhere to the deregulating unit DR1, which is likely to cause malfunctions. In particular, if the water piping is repaired after the faucet device is installed in a kitchen or other location, the amount of dirt and other contaminants in the raw water will increase, which is likely to cause malfunctions.

[0143] In the water discharge head 8, the regulating member RG1 is arranged in the purified water flow path WJ. Therefore, dirt and the like are less likely to adhere to the regulating member RG1. Dirt and the like are less likely to adhere to the restriction release abutment portion 112 and the switching restriction portion 114 of the regulating member RG1. Dirt and the like are also less likely to adhere to the shaft portion 110 of the regulating member RG1. The regulating member support portion 106e (see Figure 13(a)), which rotatably supports the shaft portion 110, is also arranged in the purified water passage WJ1, and is less likely to adhere to dirt and the like. Therefore, malfunctions caused by the regulating member RG1 are suppressed.

[0144] In the water discharge head 8, the derestriction part DR1 is arranged in the purified water flow path WJ. Therefore, dirt and the like are less likely to adhere to the derestriction part DR1. Therefore, malfunctions caused by the derestriction part DR1 are suppressed.

[0145] In the water spouting head 8, the transmission member TR1 is arranged in the purified water flow path WJ. Therefore, dirt and the like are less likely to adhere to the transmission member TR1. Dirt and the like are less likely to adhere to the rear extension portion 252, the cartridge abutment surface 254, the guide hole 256, and the release abutment surface 260. Therefore, malfunctions caused by the transmission member TR1 are suppressed.

[0146] In the water discharge head 8, the interlocking abutment portion LC1 is arranged in the purified water flow path WJ. Therefore, dirt and the like are less likely to adhere to the interlocking abutment portion LC1. Dirt and the like are less likely to adhere to the end surface 132 of the interlocking abutment portion LC1. Therefore, malfunctions caused by the interlocking abutment portion LC1 are suppressed.

[0147] In the water discharge head 8, the contact points of the components involved in restricting the switch from raw water to purified water and the contact points of the components involved in releasing the restriction are located in the purified water flow path WJ. This prevents malfunctions related to the restriction and release of the restriction.

[0148] The restricting member RG1 is located downstream of the water purification cartridge PC1. By placing the restricting member RG1 in the purified water flow path WJ, it is possible to also make the downstream side of the water purification cartridge PC1 the purified water flow path WJ. However, in this case, vibration of the water purification cartridge PC1 is reduced. As mentioned above, water hammer or high water pressure occurs when the raw water shutoff valve V1 is shut off, and also when the purified water shutoff valve V2 is shut off. However, the water hammer or water pressure is greater when the raw water shutoff valve V1 is shut off. In other words, the water hammer or water pressure is greater in the raw water flow path WG than in the purified water flow path WJ. By configuring the tip occlusion outer surface 196 to face the raw water flow path WG, the water hammer or water pressure can be increased, promoting vibration of the water purification cartridge PC1 and its associated components.

[0149] As described above, the tip occlusion outer surface 196 (the outer surface of the tip portion 170) is provided with the recesses 176. Compared to a flat surface without recesses, the recesses 176 can efficiently capture water hammer or high water pressure. The recesses 176 can promote vibration of the water purification cartridge PC1 and components connected thereto.

[0150] The raw water passage WG1 extends in the radial direction. By providing the recess 176, the water flow in the raw water passage WG1 extending in the radial direction can be effectively captured. The recess 176 can effectively capture water hammer or high water pressure in the raw water passage WG1 extending in the radial direction. This can promote vibration of the water purification cartridge PC1 and components connected thereto.

[0151] In order to realize a configuration in which the restricting member RG1 is disposed in the purified water flow path WJ and the distal end blocking outer surface 196 faces the raw water flow path WG, the water-spouting head 8 is provided with a raw water passage WG1 facing the distal end blocking outer surface 196 downstream of the distal end blocking outer surface 196 (see FIG. 14). The downstream side of this raw water passage WG1 forms the purified water flow path WJ. The raw water passage WG1 and the purified water flow path WJ located downstream thereof are separated by a partition wall 290. The partition wall 290 is located downstream of the raw water passage WG1. The purified water flow path WJ and the restricting member RG1 are disposed downstream of the partition wall 290. In this embodiment, the partition wall 290 is formed by the receiver-forming member 106 (see FIG. 13(c)).

[0152] In this way, the raw water flow path WG and the partition wall 290 are provided between the restricting member RG1 and the water purification cartridge PC1. The restricting member RG1 is spaced apart from the water purification cartridge PC1. By providing the transmitting member TR1, the raw water flow path WG and the partition wall 290 can be provided between the restricting member RG1 provided in the purified water flow path WJ and the water purification cartridge PC1. The base 250 of the transmitting member TR1 is located downstream of the raw water flow path WG and the partition wall 290. The cartridge abutment surface 254 of the transmitting member TR1 is located upstream of the tip occluding outer surface 196.

[0153] 14, the derestriction portion DR1 of the water purification cartridge PC1 is located upstream of the tip blocking outer surface 196. By providing the derestriction portion DR1 at a position other than the tip blocking outer surface 196, the derestriction portion DR1 can be arranged in a flow path other than the tip blocking outer surface 196.

[0154] The derestriction unit DR1 is disposed between the first annular packing s1 and the second annular packing s2. The purified water outlet hole 240 is disposed between the first annular packing s1 and the second annular packing s2. The first annular packing s1 and the second annular packing s2 separate the raw water flow path WG and the purified water flow path WJ. Therefore, the distal end blocking outer surface 196 can be disposed in the raw water flow path WG, while the derestriction unit DR1 can be disposed in the purified water flow path WJ. By disposing the derestriction unit DR1 in the purified water flow path WJ, it becomes easy to dispose the transmission member TR1 and the restriction member RG1 in the purified water flow path WJ.

[0155] As shown in Figure 11, the purified water outlet hole 240 has an outlet opening edge 242. This outlet opening edge 242 has a radially inner edge 242a and a radially outer edge 242b. The radially inner edge 242a and the radially outer edge 242b are arranged coaxially. The radially inner edge 242a is circular. The radially outer edge 242b is also circular. The radially outer edge 242b is located radially outward from the radially inner edge 242a. The radially outer edge 242b is located upstream of the radially inner edge 242a.

[0156] The derestriction portion DR1 is provided adjacent to the purified water outlet hole 240, which connects the purified water flow path WJ inside the water purification cartridge PC1 and the purified water flow path WJ (purified water passage WJ1) of the connection receiver 274. The derestriction portion DR1 is a surface extending radially outward from the radially outer edge 242b. As described above, the derestriction portion DR1 is the downstream end face 212 (separation portion 214) and is an annular surface. The radially inner edge of the derestriction portion DR1, which is an annular surface, forms the radially outer edge 242b of the outlet opening edge 242. With this configuration, the derestriction portion DR1 can be formed at a midpoint upstream of the tip blocking outer surface 196 while ensuring the cross-sectional area of ​​the purified water outlet hole 240.

[0157] As shown in Figure 11, the connection end 152 has a purified water outlet hole 240, a first annular packing s1 located downstream of the purified water outlet hole 240, and a second annular packing s2 located upstream of the purified water outlet hole 240. The outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing s1 is smaller than the outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing s2. This configuration makes it easy to form the derestriction portion DR1 between the first annular packing s1 and the second annular packing s2. This configuration makes it possible to form the derestriction portion DR1 while suppressing the complexity of the shape of the water purification cartridge PC1, increasing costs, and reducing flow rate.

[0158] In this embodiment, the derestriction portion DR1 is composed of multiple partitions 214. The derestriction portion DR1 is distributed in an annular shape (see FIG. 9(b)). Meanwhile, the multiple cartridge abutment surfaces 254 of the transmission member TR1 are arranged along the circumferential direction. Therefore, even if the circumferential position (phase) of the water purification cartridge PC1 changes, the cartridge abutment surfaces 254 can stably abut against the derestriction portion DR1.

[0159] The number of rear extension portions 252 is not limited. The number of rear extension portions 252 may be one or two. From the viewpoint of stable contact with the derestriction portion DR1, the number of rear extension portions 252 is preferably three or more. If the number of rear extension portions 252 is excessive, the flow rate of purified water may decrease when the rear extension portions 252 are arranged in the purified water flow path WJ. From this viewpoint, the number of rear extension portions 252 is preferably eight or less, more preferably six or less, and still more preferably four or less.

[0160] In the above embodiment, O-rings are used as the annular gaskets s1 and s2. The cross-sectional shape of the O-rings is circular. The cross-sectional shape of the annular gaskets does not have to be circular. For example, an O-ring with an elliptical cross-sectional shape may be used as the annular gaskets. The annular gaskets are not limited to O-rings. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the annular gaskets is not limited. For example, a square gasket with a square cross-section, a U-gasket with a U-shaped cross-section, a V-gasket with a V-shaped cross-section, a Y-gasket with a Y-shaped cross-section, or an X-gasket with an X-shaped cross-section may be used as the annular gaskets. Note that O-rings are preferred from the overall perspective of preventing adhesion between the water purification cartridge and surrounding components and ensuring sealing properties (watertightness), and that an O-ring with a circular cross-section is particularly preferred.

[0161] The material of the restricting member RG1 may be a resin or a metal. From the viewpoint of cost, when the material is a metal, the restricting member RG1 is preferably manufactured by sintering, casting, or forging. When the material is a resin, a thermoplastic resin that is easy to mold is preferable. From the viewpoint of moldability, polyoxymethylene (POM), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymer (ABS), and polypropylene (PP) are more preferable. From the viewpoint of strength, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) is particularly preferable.

[0162] Examples of materials for the transmission member TR1 include resin and metal. From the viewpoint of cost, when the material is metal, the transmission member TR1 is preferably manufactured by sintering, casting, or forging. When the material is resin, a thermoplastic resin that is easy to mold is preferable. From the viewpoint of moldability, polyoxymethylene (POM), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymer (ABS), and polypropylene (PP) are more preferable. When importance is placed on sliding properties with adjacent members such as the regulating member RG1, polyoxymethylene (POM) is particularly preferable, and when importance is placed on strength, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) is particularly preferable.

[0163] The deregulation unit DR1 of the water purification cartridge PC1 can be made of resin or metal. From the viewpoint of cost, if the material is metal, the manufacturing method of the member including the deregulation unit DR1 is preferably sintering, casting, or forging. If the material is resin, a thermoplastic resin that is easy to mold is preferable. From the viewpoint of moldability, polyoxymethylene (POM), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymer (ABS), and polypropylene (PP) are more preferable. From the viewpoint of moldability and cost, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymer (ABS) and polypropylene (PP) are particularly preferable.

[0164] The connection receiving portion 274 can be made of resin or metal. From the viewpoint of cost, if the material is metal, the manufacturing method of the member including the connection receiving portion 274 is preferably sintering, casting, or forging. If the material is resin, a thermoplastic resin that is easy to mold is preferable. From the viewpoint of moldability, polyoxymethylene (POM), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymer (ABS), and polypropylene (PP) are more preferable. From the viewpoints of moldability and cost, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymer (ABS) and polypropylene (PP) are particularly preferable.

[0165] The water purification cartridge PC1 is replaced at predetermined intervals, whereas the regulating member RG1 is not. The regulating member RG1, which is used repeatedly over a long period of time, preferably has high rigidity and high abrasion resistance. From this perspective, the modulus of longitudinal elasticity of the material of the regulating member RG1 is preferably 3 GPa or more, more preferably 5 GPa or more, and even more preferably 10 GPa or more. Considering the above-mentioned preferred materials, the modulus of longitudinal elasticity of the material of the regulating member RG1 is preferably 30 GPa or less, more preferably 20 GPa or less, and even more preferably 15 GPa or less. The modulus of longitudinal elasticity of the material of the regulating member RG1 is preferably greater than the modulus of longitudinal elasticity of the material of the deregulation portion DR1. The modulus of longitudinal elasticity of the material of the regulating member RG1 is preferably greater than the modulus of longitudinal elasticity of the material of the transmission member TR1.

[0166] While the water purification cartridge PC1 is replaced at predetermined intervals, the transmission member TR1 is not. The transmission member TR1, which is used repeatedly over a long period of time, preferably has high sliding properties as well as high rigidity and high wear resistance. From the viewpoint of high rigidity and high wear resistance, the Young's modulus of the material of the transmission member TR1 is preferably 0.1 GPa or more, more preferably 1.0 GPa or more, and even more preferably 2.0 GPa or more. Considering the above-mentioned preferred materials, the Young's modulus of the material of the transmission member TR1 is preferably 10 GPa or less, more preferably 7 GPa or less, and even more preferably 5 GPa or less. The Young's modulus of the material of the transmission member TR1 is preferably greater than the Young's modulus of the material of the restriction release portion DR1.

[0167] In the configuration of the water purification cartridge PC1, it is preferable that the modulus of longitudinal elasticity EM1 of the material of the deregulation portion DR1 is smaller than the modulus of longitudinal elasticity EM2 of the material of the mating portion with which the deregulation portion DR1 abuts. This prevents damage and wear to the mating portion (e.g., the transmission member TR1) that will be used repeatedly over a long period of time. From this perspective, the ratio (EM1 / EM2) of EM1 to EM2 is preferably 0.9 or less, more preferably 0.8 or less, and particularly preferably 0.7 or less. Furthermore, if the ratio (EM1 / EM2) is too small, the strength and wear resistance of the water purification cartridge PC1 are likely to be excessively reduced. Therefore, from this perspective, the ratio (EM1 / EM2) is preferably 0.2 or more, more preferably 0.4 or more, and particularly preferably 0.5 or more.

[0168] The Young's modulus is calculated from the relationship between the amount of strain and the tensile stress, and is the proportional constant between the amount of strain and the stress in the elastic range. It is also called Young's modulus. The Young's modulus of common materials is well known and is described in many literature. If the literature value is unclear, the Young's modulus can be measured in accordance with ASTM D638. For this measurement, a test piece made of the same material as the component to be measured can be used.

[0169] In the water purification cartridge PC1 of the above embodiment, the intermediate portion 150 has a permeable portion 151 that allows water to permeate from the outer peripheral surface of the water purification cartridge PC1 to the interior. The configuration of the intermediate portion 150 is not limited to this form. For example, the outer peripheral surface of the water purification cartridge PC1 may be formed with a water-impermeable outer peripheral wall, and a permeable portion may be provided inside this outer peripheral wall. In this case, water may be allowed to flow in from the rear end of the water purification cartridge PC1. For example, an inlet may be provided at the upstream end (rear end) of the water purification cartridge PC1. This inlet may be provided in the rear forming portion 154. Water flows into the water purification cartridge PC1 from this inlet, permeates the permeable portion, and reaches the connection end 152.

[0170] In the above embodiment, the water purification function unit is a permeation unit, and purified water is generated by passing raw water through this permeation unit. As described above, this permeation unit is merely one example of a water purification function unit. Purified water may also be generated without passing through the permeation unit. For example, purified water can also be generated by the water purification cartridge having a metal material, and the metal material releasing metal ions that have the effect of disinfecting, antibacterial, sterilizing, or inhibiting bacterial growth.

[0171] In this application, purified water is a concept that includes the following produced water (1) and (2). (1) Produced water in which substances or ions in the water have been removed using an adsorbent or filtration membrane. (2) Generated water that has been given beneficial functions by adding metal ions, electrons, substances, etc. to water, such as adding metal ions to water to give it antibacterial properties.

[0172] Specifically, the concept of purified water in this application includes water produced by the following function A and / or function B. In other words, the concept of water purification functional part in this application includes a functional part having the following function A and / or function B.

[0173] [Function A] Function A is one or more functions selected from the group consisting of A1, A2, A3, A4, and A5 below. A1: A function that uses adsorbents such as activated carbon to adsorb and remove substances from water. A2: The function of filtering substances in water using a filter medium. Preferably, the filter medium is a filter membrane such as a reverse osmosis membrane, ultrafiltration membrane, microfiltration membrane, nanofiltration membrane, or porous hollow fiber membrane, and the function of filtering substances in water using this filter membrane. A3: A function that uses ion exchange resins to capture and remove metal ions and other substances from water. A4: The function of releasing metal ions from metal materials that have the effect of disinfecting, antibacterial, sterilizing, and / or inhibiting the growth of bacteria. A5: A function that generates active oxygen by releasing metal ions from metal materials and absorbing the electrons generated by the release of these metal ions into oxygen in the water.

[0174] Examples of substances in water to be purified include chlorine, volatile organic compounds, pesticides, musty odor substances, heavy metals, etc. It is preferable to remove one or more substances selected from the group consisting of chlorine, volatile organic compounds, pesticides, musty odor substances, and heavy metals.

[0175] In this application, the term "chlorine" refers to a concept that includes residual chlorine in tap water. This residual chlorine includes free residual chlorine and combined residual chlorine. Examples of free residual chlorine include hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ions. Examples of combined residual chlorine include monochloramine, dichloramine, and trichloramine. When chlorine gas is dissolved in water for the purpose of disinfecting the water, these residual chlorines can be generated.

[0176] Examples of the volatile organic compounds include chloroform, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane, bromoform, tetrachloroethylene, trichloroethylene, 1,1,1-trichloroethane, total trihalomethanes, etc. It is preferable to remove one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of chloroform, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane, bromoform, tetrachloroethylene, trichloroethylene, 1,1,1-trichloroethane, and total trihalomethanes.

[0177] Examples of the pesticide include 2-chloro-4,6-bistylamino-1,3,5-triazine, etc. It is preferable to remove 2-chloro-4,6-bistylamino-1,3,5-triazine.

[0178] Examples of the musty odor substance include 2-methylisoborneol, geosmin, phenols, etc. It is preferable to remove one or more substances selected from the group consisting of 2-methylisoborneol, geosmin, and phenols.

[0179] Examples of the heavy metals include lead, mercury, copper, arsenic, cadmium, etc. It is preferable to remove one or more selected from the group consisting of lead, mercury, copper, arsenic, and cadmium.

[0180] Examples of the metal ion in function A4 include zinc ions and silver ions. It is preferable to release at least one ion selected from the group consisting of zinc ions and silver ions.

[0181] The bacteria in function A4 include Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, and also include various bacteria defined (inclusively) as general bacteria. It is preferable that one or more of these bacteria are disinfected, antibacterial, sterilized, or the growth of which is inhibited.

[0182] The active oxygen in the function A5 can decompose organic matter such as bacteria. Examples of such bacteria include Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, and also includes various bacteria that are defined (inclusively) as general bacteria. It is preferable that one or more of these bacteria are decomposed.

[0183] A water purification cartridge having function A1 is preferred from the viewpoint of being able to effectively remove chlorine and harmful substances and reducing the manufacturing cost of the water purification cartridge. A water purification cartridge may also be provided that has function A1 and one or more functions selected from functions A2, A3, A4, and A5.

[0184] [Function B] Function B is a function of purifying water using a filter material and / or medium specified in "6. Water Purifiers" in Appendix 2 (related to Article 2) of the Miscellaneous Industrial Products Quality Labeling Regulations (revised on March 30, 2017 / enforced on April 1, 2017). In other words, the water purification cartridge preferably has a water purification function part that purifies water using a filter material and / or medium specified in "6. Water Purifiers" in Appendix 2 (related to Article 2) of the Miscellaneous Industrial Products Quality Labeling Regulations (revised on March 30, 2017 / enforced on April 1, 2017).

[0185] The water purification function section having the function A and / or function B may constitute part of the water purification flow path, may be arranged within the water purification flow path, or may be arranged in a water reservoir section that flows through the water purification flow path.

[0186] The water purification cartridge may be an integrated type in which the entire cartridge is inseparably integrated, or a composite type made up of multiple components that can be separated from each other.

[0187] The combined type may have, for example, an adapter member having the deregulation portion and a cartridge body portion. The adapter member may be connectable to the cartridge body portion or may not be connectable. In other words, the adapter member may be attachable to the cartridge body portion or may not be attachable to the cartridge body portion. When the adapter member is attachable to the cartridge body portion, the adapter member may be attached to the cartridge body in a removably manner or may not be attached to the cartridge body.

[0188] The configuration of the adapter member and the cartridge body is not limited, and may be, for example, any of the following configurations B1 to B4. B1: A configuration in which the adapter member is attached to the cartridge body and then attached to the cartridge attachment section. B2: A configuration in which the adapter member is first attached to the cartridge attachment portion, and then the cartridge body is attached to the adapter member. B3: A configuration in which the adapter member is attached to one part of the cartridge mounting portion, and the cartridge body is attached to another part of the cartridge mounting portion. B4: A configuration in which the adapter member is first attached to a part of the cartridge mounting portion, and then the cartridge body is attached to the adapter member and the other part of the cartridge mounting portion.

[0189] In the above configurations B1 to B4, the adapter member may be configured to be removably attached to the cartridge mounting portion, or may be configured to be non-removably attached. However, if it is non-removable, the regulating member will be maintained in the second state. Therefore, it is preferable that the adapter member be removably attached to the cartridge mounting portion.

[0190] The background art, prior art documents, problems to be solved by the invention, means for solving the problems, and effects of the invention described in the original application are as follows. In the following, the same paragraph numbers (0002 to 0011) as in the original application are used. [Background technology]

[0002] A shower head with a built-in water purification cartridge and a water purification function is known. Japanese Patent Publication No. 3454756 discloses a shower head with a water purification function that can switch between a raw water flow path that does not pass through the water purification cartridge and a purified water flow path that does pass through the water purification cartridge.

[0003] This type of water spouting head or a water faucet device equipped with such a water spouting head has an operating unit that allows switching between raw water and purified water. Examples of this operating unit include a push button, lever, dial, etc. In some cases, a display unit is also provided that indicates whether the water being spouted is raw water or purified water.

[0004] Through operation, display, etc., the user can recognize whether the water being dispensed is raw water or purified water. However, even if the water purification cartridge is not inserted due to reasons such as forgetting to insert it, the user may still use the faucet under the mistaken belief that purified water is coming out. In other words, a situation may arise in which the user mistakenly believes that purified water is coming out, even though raw water is actually coming out. [Prior art document] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 3454756 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Regarding this issue, International Patent Application PCT / JP2018 / 000349 has been filed. The water spout head with water purification function disclosed in this application includes a discharge port, a switching mechanism capable of switching between raw water and purified water discharged from the discharge port, a regulating member capable of transitioning between a first state and a second state, which in the first state restricts the switching mechanism from switching from raw water to purified water and in the second state allows the switching mechanism to switch from raw water to purified water, a water purification cartridge having a deregulation unit that transitions the regulating member from the first state to the second state, and a cartridge mounting unit. When the water purification cartridge is not mounted in the cartridge mounting unit, the regulating member is in the first state, and when the water purification cartridge is mounted in the cartridge mounting unit, the deregulation unit causes the regulating member to be in the second state. In this water spout head, when the water purification cartridge is not mounted in the cartridge mounting unit, the regulating member is in the first state, thereby restricting the switch from raw water to purified water. Therefore, misidentification of water discharge can be prevented.

[0007] The present inventors have found room for further improvement in the above-mentioned faucet equipped with the above-mentioned restricting member. An object of the present invention is to provide a water spouting head and a water purification cartridge that can prevent misidentification of water spouting and are highly reliable. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In one aspect, a water spout head with a water purification function includes a discharge port, a raw water flow path, a purified water flow path, a switching mechanism that can switch whether the water discharged from the discharge port is raw water or purified water, a regulating member that can transition between a first state and a second state, and in the first state, restricts the switching mechanism from switching from raw water to purified water, and in the second state, allows the switching mechanism to switch from raw water to purified water, a deregulation unit that transitions the regulating member from the first state to the second state, a water purification cartridge with a water-impermeable distal end blocking outer surface, and a cartridge mounting unit. When the water purification cartridge is not mounted in the cartridge mounting unit, the regulating member is in the first state, and when the water purification cartridge is mounted in the cartridge mounting unit, the deregulation unit causes the regulating member to be in the second state. The distal end blocking outer surface faces the raw water flow path. The regulating member is disposed in the purified water flow path.

[0009] In another aspect, the water purification cartridge is a water purification cartridge that can be attached to a water spouting head with a water purification function, and includes: a discharge port; a switching mechanism that can switch between raw water and purified water discharged from the discharge port; a regulating member that can transition between a first state and a second state and that, in the first state, restricts the switching mechanism from switching from raw water to purified water and, in the second state, allows the switching mechanism to switch from raw water to purified water; a purified water flow path in which the regulating member is disposed; a raw water flow path; and a cartridge attachment section. This water purification cartridge has a water purification function section, a deregulation section that transitions the regulating member from the first state to the second state, and a water-impermeable tip-blocked outer surface facing the raw water flow path.

[0010] Another aspect is a water faucet device equipped with the water spout head with water purification function. [Effects of the invention]

[0011] In one aspect, misidentification of water discharge is prevented, and the reliability of the misidentification prevention mechanism is improved.

[0191] The following notes are provided regarding the above-described embodiments. [Appendix 1] A discharge port; a raw water channel; a clean water flow path; a switching mechanism that can switch whether the water discharged from the discharge port is raw water or purified water; a regulating member that is capable of mutual transition between a first state and a second state, that regulates the switching mechanism from switching from raw water to purified water in the first state, and that allows the switching mechanism to switch from raw water to purified water in the second state; a deregulation unit that transitions the regulating member from the first state to the second state; and a water purification cartridge having a water-impermeable distal end occluded outer surface; A cartridge mounting portion; It has When the water purification cartridge is not attached to the cartridge attachment portion, the regulating member is in the first state, and when the water purification cartridge is attached to the cartridge attachment portion, the regulating member is in the second state due to the restriction release portion, The tip blocking outer surface faces the raw water flow path, A water spouting head with a water purification function, wherein the regulating member is arranged in the purified water flow path. [Appendix 2] The vehicle further includes a transmission member that can be moved between a forward position and a rearward position, The transmission member moves to the forward position when the water purification cartridge is attached, A water-spouting head as described in Appendix 1, in which the transmission member moving to the forward position causes the regulating member to transition to the second state. [Appendix 3] The derestriction portion is located upstream of the distal end blocking outer surface, A water-spouting head as described in Appendix 2, in which, when the water purification cartridge is attached, the deregulation portion presses the transmission member, and this pressure causes the transmission member to move to the forward position. [Appendix 4] the cartridge mounting portion has a connection receiving portion, The water purification cartridge has a connection end portion that is connected to the connection receiving portion, The connection end has a purified water outlet hole, a first annular packing located downstream of the purified water outlet hole, and a second annular packing located upstream of the purified water outlet hole, The outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than the outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing, A water-spouting head as described in Appendix 3, wherein the deregulation portion is formed between the first annular gasket and the second annular gasket. [Appendix 5] A raw water passage constituting the raw water flow path is provided downstream of the water purification cartridge, The tip closure outer surface faces the raw water passage, A partition wall is provided downstream of the raw water passage, A water-spouting head described in any one of appendix 1 to 4, wherein the purified water flow path and the regulating member are arranged downstream of the partition wall. [Appendix 6] A water purification cartridge that can be attached to a water discharge head with a water purification function, the water discharge head comprising: a discharge port; a switching mechanism that can switch between raw water and purified water discharged from the discharge port; a regulating member that can transition between a first state and a second state and that, in the first state, regulates the switching mechanism from switching from raw water to purified water, and, in the second state, allows the switching mechanism to switch from raw water to purified water; a purified water flow path in which the regulating member is arranged; a raw water flow path; and a cartridge attachment portion; A water purification cartridge having a water purification function section, a deregulation section that transitions the regulating member from the first state to the second state, and a water-impermeable tip occluded outer surface facing the raw water flow path. [Appendix 7] The water spouting head further includes a transmission member that can be moved between a forward position and a rearward position, The transmission member is moved to the front position by the restriction release portion when the water purification cartridge is attached, The water purification cartridge according to claim 6, wherein the transmission member moved to the forward position can transition the regulating member to the second state J2. [Appendix 8] A faucet device equipped with a water spout head described in any one of appendix 1 to 5.

[0192] This application also describes other inventions not included in the inventions described in the claims (including independent claims). Each form, element, configuration, etc. described in the claims and embodiments of this application is recognized as an invention based on the effects that each has.

[0193] Each of the forms, components, configurations, etc. shown in each of the above embodiments can be individually applied to all of the inventions described in this application, including the inventions claimed in this application, even if not all of the forms, components, or configurations of these embodiments are included. [Explanation of symbols]

[0194] 2. Faucet device 4. Main body 6 Lever handle 8. Water discharge head 14...Operation unit 106 Receiving portion forming member 106f···Slide protrusion 112....Restriction release contact portion of restricting member 114....Regulating member switching regulation portion 116: First state holding portion of regulating member 132 End face of interlocking contact part 152... Connection end of water purification cartridge 170 Tip of water purification cartridge 176···Recess 196...Tip occlusion outer surface 240···Purified water outlet hole 254....Cartridge contact surface of transmission member 260....Release contact surface of transmission member 274 Connection socket 290...Bulkhead s1...First annular packing s2: Second annular packing RG1 Regulating member DR1...Deregulation section TR1 Transmission member LC1... Interlocking contact part PC1... Water Purification Cartridge J1: First state of the restricting member J2: Second state of the restricting member P1: Rear position (transmission member) P2: Front position (transmission member) WJ...Water purification channel WJ1... Water purification passage WG...Raw water flow path WG1...Raw water passage

Claims

1. The water purification function part has an intermediate part, a connecting end part disposed at a front end of the intermediate part, and a rear forming part disposed at a rear end of the intermediate part, The connection end portion includes a first cylindrical portion that is a tip portion of the connection end portion and constitutes a tip portion of the water purification cartridge, a second cylindrical portion that is located upstream of the first cylindrical portion and is arranged coaxially with the first cylindrical portion, and a purified water outlet hole, The outer diameter of the first cylindrical portion is smaller than the outer diameter of the second cylindrical portion, The first cylindrical portion has an end surface that constitutes a tip surface of the water purification cartridge, The water purification cartridge, wherein the second cylindrical portion has a downstream end surface.

2. The water purification cartridge according to claim 1 , wherein an outlet opening edge of the purified water outlet hole is formed on the downstream end surface.

Images