Faucet device

Abstract

To provide a faucet device capable of improving the operability of a preset temperature of hot and cold water by a user.SOLUTION: A faucet device according to an embodiment comprises a water discharge part that discharges water toward a bathroom interior, a hot-and-cold-water mixing part that mixes hot water and cold water supplied to the water discharge part, a control device that controls the operation of an actuator of the hot-and-cold-water mixing part, and an operation unit that receives an operation by a user of a preset temperature of the hot and cold water and transmits, to the control device, an operation signal corresponding to the operation of the preset temperature. The operation unit comprises a display unit that displays the preset temperature. The control device sets preset temperatures in a high-temperature preset temperature range on a high-temperature side more densely than preset temperatures in a low-temperature preset temperature range on a low-temperature side, starting from a reference use temperature range.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, a hot and cold water mixing device is known that, within a set hot and cold water temperature range, provides fine temperature resolution in the operating temperature range and coarse temperature resolution outside the operating temperature range (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 2633589 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In conventional technology, the control resolution for the target temperature is higher within the operating temperature range than outside the operating temperature range. However, the conventional technology does not take into consideration the user's operation to change the set hot and cold water temperature, and there is room for improvement in the ease of use for users when changing the set hot and cold water temperature.

[0005] One aspect of the embodiment aims to provide a faucet device that improves the ease with which a user can set the hot and cold water temperature. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A faucet device according to one embodiment includes a water discharge unit that discharges water into a bathroom, a hot and cold water mixer that mixes the hot and cold water supplied to the water discharge unit, a control device that controls the operation of the actuator of the hot and cold water mixer, and an operation unit that receives a user's setting of the hot and cold water temperature and sends an operation signal corresponding to the setting temperature to the control device. The operation unit includes a display unit that displays the setting temperature. The control device sets the setting temperature of the high-temperature setting temperature range on the higher side closer to the setting temperature of the low-temperature setting temperature range, starting from the reference operating temperature range.

[0007] This allows the user to quickly change the hot and cold water temperature with minimal operation when changing the hot and cold water temperature in the low temperature setting range. Furthermore, the user can precisely change the hot and cold water temperature when changing the hot and cold water temperature in the standard operating temperature range and the high temperature setting range. In other words, the user can adjust the hot and cold water temperature to their preferred level when changing the hot and cold water temperature in the standard operating temperature range and the high temperature setting range. In this way, the faucet device can improve the user's operability in setting the hot and cold water temperature.

[0008] The display unit also displays the set temperature in levels.

[0009] This allows the user to set a relative temperature based on their own temperature sensation for hot and cold water. For example, if the set temperature is displayed as a number (e.g., Celsius) and the user's temperature sensation differs from that of the hot and cold water discharged from the water discharge unit, the user may feel uncomfortable. By displaying the set temperature as a level on the display unit, the faucet device can prevent the user from feeling uncomfortable about the temperature of the hot and cold water discharged from the water discharge unit. Furthermore, the user can operate the operating unit based on their own temperature sensation for the hot and cold water discharged from the water discharge unit, changing the level display and adjusting the temperature of the hot and cold water. Therefore, the faucet device can improve the operability of adjusting the temperature of the hot and cold water.

[0010] Furthermore, the display unit changes the temperature setting by one level in response to a single operation by the user.

[0011] This allows the faucet device to appropriately change the temperature of hot and cold water in response to the user's operation. The faucet device also ensures that the user's operation results are reflected on the display, allowing the user to check the results of the temperature setting on the display.

[0012] The temperature intervals in the reference operating temperature range and the high set temperature range are the same, and the temperature intervals in the low set temperature range are larger than the temperature intervals in the reference operating temperature range and the high set temperature range.

[0013] This allows the user to quickly change the hot and cold water temperature with minimal operation when changing the hot and cold water temperature in the low temperature setting range. The user can also change the set temperature in the same temperature intervals in the basic operating temperature range and the high temperature setting range. Therefore, the faucet device improves the user's operability in setting the hot and cold water temperature.

[0014] The temperature interval in the high set temperature range is smaller than the temperature interval in the standard use temperature range, and the temperature interval in the low set temperature range is larger than the temperature interval in the standard use temperature range.

[0015] This allows the user to quickly change the hot and cold water temperature with minimal operation when changing the hot and cold water temperature in the low temperature setting range. As a result, the faucet device improves the user's operability in setting the hot and cold water temperature. Furthermore, in the high temperature setting range, the faucet device can prevent the hot and cold water temperature from changing significantly in response to the user's operation of the set temperature. For example, the faucet device can prevent the hot and cold water temperature from rising suddenly.

[0016] The hot and cold water mixing section also includes a main casing in which a water inlet, a hot water inlet, and a mixed hot and cold water outlet are formed, a temperature-sensitive actuating section that changes depending on the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water and can adjust the opening of the hot water inlet and the water inlet, and a valve body that is freely slidable within the main casing along the axial direction of the main casing and can adjust the opening of the hot water inlet and the water inlet.

[0017] This allows the faucet device to prevent the user from feeling uncomfortable when the user operates the set temperature and the hot and cold water mixing unit adjusts the opening of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet to adjust the temperature of the hot and cold water discharged from the water discharge unit.The hot and cold water mixing unit may not change the hot and cold water temperature linearly in response to a change in the set temperature due to the temperature characteristics of the temperature-sensing actuator.The faucet device can prevent the user from feeling uncomfortable, even when it has a hot and cold water mixing unit, for example, by displaying the set temperature in stages.

[0018] The standard operating temperature range is 39°C or higher and 41°C or lower. The high temperature setting range is higher than 41°C and lower than 45°C. The low temperature setting range is 35°C or higher and lower than 39°C.

[0019] This allows the faucet device to discharge hot water at a temperature suitable for the user from the water discharge portion.

[0020] In addition, the hot and cold water temperature can be set in one step between 35°C and the cold water setting.

[0021] This allows the faucet device to discharge low-temperature hot water from the water discharge portion, allowing users to use low-temperature hot water after exercise or in the summer, for example.

[0022] The intermediate temperature level of the reference operating temperature range is the center level of the level display. The level display is evenly distributed between the high temperature side and the low temperature side for the intermediate temperature level.

[0023] This allows the user to easily recognize the hot and cold water temperature setting when the hot and cold water temperature is set to the high or low side of the level display. For example, if the current level is higher than the center level of the level display, the user can easily recognize that the hot and cold water temperature is on the high side. In addition, the user can easily recognize how high or low the hot and cold water temperature setting is compared to the intermediate temperature level. [Effects of the Invention]

[0024] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to improve the ease with which a user can set the hot and cold water temperature. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0025] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a bathroom unit in which a water faucet device according to an embodiment is installed. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view of the remote controller according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the relationship between the set temperature of mixed hot and cold water and the level. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an outline of the water faucet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the faucet body. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the mixer faucet unit. [Figure 7] 7 is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line VII-VII shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0036] The remote control 4 accepts various operations by the user on the faucet main body 3. Specifically, the remote control 4 accepts operations to set the hot and cold water temperature (set temperature) in the faucet main body 3. The remote control 4 accepts operations to set the hot and cold water flow rate in the faucet main body 3. The remote control 4 accepts operations to switch between discharging and stopping the hot and cold water. The remote control 4 accepts operations to switch the hot and cold water discharge destination. When operated by the user, the remote control 4 transmits an operation signal corresponding to each operation to the control device 7 of the faucet device 1 (see Figure 3).

[0037] 2, the remote control 4 includes, for example, a temperature adjustment button 41, a water volume adjustment button 42, and a switching button 43. Fig. 2 is a front view of the remote control 4 according to the embodiment.

[0038] The temperature adjustment button 41 is a button for adjusting the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water in the faucet body 3. The temperature adjustment button 41 includes a high temperature button 41a and a low temperature button 41b. The high temperature button 41a is a button for increasing the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water. The low temperature button 41b is a button for decreasing the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water.

[0039] The remote control 4 displays the set temperature of the mixed hot water on the first display unit 45a. The first display unit 45a displays the set temperature as a level. Specifically, the first display unit 45a displays the set temperature in stages. That is, the set temperature can be set at multiple levels. For example, the first display unit 45a displays the set temperature in 11 levels. The first display unit 45a displays the set temperature using a rectangular gauge. In FIG. 2, one level of the set temperature corresponds to one gauge. For the sake of explanation, in FIG. 2, gauges that are not displayed are shown with dashed lines.

[0040] When the high temperature button 41a or the low temperature button 41b is operated, the display on the first display unit 45a changes in response to the operation of each button 41a, 41b. The first display unit 45a changes the level by one step for each operation of each button 41a, 41b by the user. For example, when the high temperature button 41a is operated once from the state shown in FIG. 2, the first display unit 45a increases the gauge (the black gauge in FIG. 2) by one step. When the low temperature button 41b is operated once from the state shown in FIG. 2, the first display unit 45a decreases the gauge (the black gauge in FIG. 2) by one step.

[0041] The relationship between the set temperature of mixed hot water and the level will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the relationship between the set temperature of mixed hot water and the level.

[0042] There are 11 levels corresponding to the set temperature, from "1" to "11." Level "1" corresponds to "C" on the first display section 45a in FIG. 2. Level "6" corresponds to "40" on the first display section 45a in FIG. 2. Level "11" corresponds to "H" on the first display section 45a in FIG. 2.

[0043] The set temperatures for the mixed hot and cold water that can be set using the remote control 4 are "water," "30°C," "35°C," "37°C," "39°C," "40°C," "41°C," "42°C," "43°C," "44°C," and "45°C."

[0044] When the level is "6", the remote control 4 sets the set temperature of the mixed hot and cold water to "40°C". When the level is "1", the remote control 4 sets the set temperature of the mixed hot and cold water to "cold water". When the set temperature of the mixed hot and cold water is "cold water", the faucet body 3 does not mix hot water with cold water and only discharges cold water.

[0045] The set temperature of the mixed hot water includes a standard use temperature range, a high set temperature range that is higher than the standard use temperature range, and a low set temperature range that is lower than the standard use temperature range.

[0046] The standard use temperature range is the temperature range that is most frequently set by users when hot and cold water is dispensed from the faucet device 1. The standard use temperature range is set in advance. The standard use temperature range is 39°C or higher and 41°C or lower. Specifically, the standard use temperature range is "39°C," "40°C," and "41°C." The temperature interval within the standard use temperature range is 1°C.

[0047] The high temperature setting range is set in advance. The high temperature setting range is higher than 41°C and lower than 45°C. Specifically, the high temperature setting range is "42°C," "43°C," "44°C," and "45°C." The temperature interval in the high temperature setting range is 1°C. The temperature interval in the high temperature setting range is the same as the temperature interval in the standard operating temperature range.

[0048] The low temperature setting range is set in advance. The low temperature setting range is equal to or higher than 35°C and lower than 39°C. Specifically, the low temperature setting range is "35°C" and "37°C." The temperature interval in the low temperature setting range is 2°C. The temperature interval in the low temperature setting range is larger than the temperature interval in the standard operating temperature range and the temperature interval in the high temperature setting range.

[0049] The set temperature of the mixed hot water that can be set by the remote control 4 has one temperature step between the low temperature setting range of "35°C" and "water." Specifically, the settable temperature of the mixed hot water is "30°C" between "35°C" and "water."

[0050] The first display section 45a is set so that the level of the intermediate temperature of the reference operating temperature range is the center level of the level display. The intermediate temperature is the center temperature of the reference operating temperature range. In the first display section 45a, the level display is evenly distributed between the high temperature side and the low temperature side of the intermediate temperature level.

[0051] For example, the midpoint temperature of the standard operating temperature range is "40°C." The midpoint temperature level, "6," is the middle level on an 11-level display. The level display also has five levels on the high-temperature side and five levels on the low-temperature side of the midpoint temperature.

[0052] Returning to Figure 2, the water volume adjustment button 42 is a button for adjusting the flow rate of hot and cold water dispensed from the faucet device 1. The water volume adjustment button 42 includes an increase water button 42a and a decrease water button 42b. The increase water button 42a is a button for increasing the flow rate of hot and cold water. The decrease water button 42b is a button for decreasing the flow rate of hot and cold water. The remote control 4 displays the set status of the hot and cold water volume on the second display unit 45b. When the increase water button 42a or the decrease water button 42b is operated, the display on the second display unit 45b changes in accordance with the operation of each button 42a, 42b. The flow rate of hot and cold water dispensed from the faucet device 1 can be adjusted within a predetermined flow rate range.

[0053] The switching button 43 is a button for switching between discharging hot and cold water and stopping the water supply in the faucet device 1. The switching button 43 is also a button for switching the destination of the hot and cold water supply in the faucet device 1. The switching buttons 43 include a faucet button 43a, a hand shower button 43b, an overhead shower button 43c, and a warm pillar button 43d. Each of the buttons 43a to 43d can be switched between "ON" and "OFF" when pressed by the user.

[0054] When each of the buttons 43a to 43d of the switching button 43 is set to "OFF," hot or cold water is not discharged. In other words, the water faucet device 1 is in a water stop state.

[0055] When any one of the switching buttons 43, 43a to 43d, is pressed from the "OFF" state, and the pressed switching button 43 becomes "ON," hot or cold water is discharged. In other words, the water faucet device 1 changes from a water stop state to a water discharge state.

[0056] When one of the switching buttons 43 is "ON" and another switching button 43 is pressed, the switching button 43 that is "ON" is changed, and the destination of hot and cold water is switched.

[0057] For example, when hand shower button 43b is "ON," hot and cold water is discharged from hand shower 22. When faucet button 43a is pressed in this state, hand shower button 43b turns "OFF" and faucet button 43a turns "ON." This changes the discharge destination of hot and cold water from hand shower 22 to faucet 21, and hot and cold water is discharged from faucet 21.

[0058] When the "ON" switch button 43 is pressed again, the pressed switch button 43 turns "OFF," and each of the buttons 43a to 43d of the switch button 43 turns "OFF," stopping the flow of hot and cold water. In other words, the water faucet device 1 changes from a water discharge state to a water stop state.

[0059] Each of the buttons 43a to 43d is configured so that the user can distinguish between the "ON" and "OFF" states. For example, a switching button 43 that is "ON" lights up, and a switching button 43 that is "OFF" lights up.

[0060] Although the faucet device 1 described here is capable of discharging hot and cold water from the overhead shower 23, warm pillar 24, hand shower 22, and faucet 21, it is not limited to this. For example, the faucet device 1 may be configured without the overhead shower 23 and warm pillar 24.

[0061] Next, an overview of the faucet device 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing an overview of the faucet device 1 according to the embodiment. In Fig. 4, the flow of hot and cold water is indicated by solid arrows, and communication lines are indicated by dashed lines.

[0062] The faucet device 1 comprises a plurality of water discharge sections 2, a faucet body 3, a remote control 4, and a communication unit 5.

[0063] The multiple water discharge units 2 include a faucet 21, a hand shower 22, an overhead shower 23, a warm pillar 24, and a hot water waiting outlet 25a (see FIG. 1) connected to a residual water drainage flow path 25. The water discharge units 2 discharge hot and cold water into the bathroom.

[0064] The faucet body 3 includes a mixer faucet unit 50, a water discharge switching section 30, and a control device 7.

[0065] The mixer faucet unit 50 includes a hot and cold water mixing section 80, a flow rate adjustment section 100, a temperature sensor 48, and a temperature sensor 49. Hot water is supplied to the hot and cold water mixing section 80 from a hot water supply source 37. In addition, water is supplied to the hot and cold water mixing section 80 from a water supply source 44. The temperature sensor 48 is provided upstream of the hot and cold water mixing section 80 and detects the temperature of the hot water supplied from the hot water supply source 37. The temperature sensor 49 is provided downstream of the hot and cold water mixing section 80 and detects the temperature of the hot water discharged from the hot and cold water mixing section 80. A stop valve 38 is provided in the hot water supply path 39 between the hot and cold water mixing section 80 and the hot water supply source 37. In addition, a stop valve 45 is provided in the water supply path 46 between the hot and cold water mixing section 80 and the water supply source 44.

[0066] The hot and cold water mixing unit 80 mixes hot water supplied from the hot water supply source 37 and cold water supplied from the cold water supply source 44. Specifically, the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 switches whether or not to mix hot water with cold water. The hot and cold water mixing unit 80 also adjusts the ratio of hot water to be mixed with cold water, thereby adjusting the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water.

[0067] The hot and cold water mixing unit 80 includes a motor 62. The motor 62 is, for example, a stepping motor, and the rotational position (drive amount) of the motor 62 is controlled by the number of steps. In response to operation of the temperature adjustment button 41 on the remote control 4, the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 drives the motor 62 to drive a temperature control valve 82 (valve body, see FIG. 7) to switch whether or not to mix hot water with cold water.

[0068] In addition, the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 adjusts the ratio of hot water to be mixed with water by driving a temperature control valve 82 (see FIG. 7) by driving a motor 62 in response to operation of the temperature adjustment button 41 on the remote control 4. Even if the temperature adjustment button 41 is not operated, for example, when the temperature of the hot water changes and the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water changes, the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 can adjust the ratio of the hot water flow rate to the water flow rate in response to the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water, and automatically adjust the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water.

[0069] Hot and cold water flows into the flow rate adjusting unit 100 from the hot and cold water mixing unit 80. When hot and cold water is discharged from the water discharge unit 2, the flow rate adjusting unit 100 adjusts the flow rate of the discharged hot and cold water.

[0070] The flow rate adjustment unit 100 includes a motor 72. The motor 72 is, for example, a stepping motor, and the rotational position (drive amount) of the motor 72 is controlled by the number of steps. In response to operation of the water volume adjustment button 42 on the remote control 4, the motor 72 is driven to drive a flow adjustment valve 102 (see FIG. 7), thereby adjusting the flow rate of hot and cold water.

[0071] The water discharge switching unit 30 switches between discharging and stopping the hot and cold water flowing out of the mixer faucet unit 50. In other words, the water discharge switching unit 30 switches between discharging and stopping the hot and cold water from the water discharge unit 2. The water discharge switching unit 30 also switches the destination of the hot and cold water to be discharged. The faucet device 1 switches between discharging and stopping the hot and cold water from the water discharge unit 2 using the water discharge switching unit 30, and adjusts the flow rate of the hot and cold water when it is being discharged using the flow rate adjustment unit 100.

[0072] The water discharge switching unit 30 includes a plurality of solenoid valves 31 to 35. Specifically, the water discharge switching unit 30 includes a first solenoid valve 31, a second solenoid valve 32, a third solenoid valve 33, a fourth solenoid valve 34, and a fifth solenoid valve 35.

[0073] The first solenoid valve 31 to the fourth solenoid valve 34 are switched between "closed (OFF)" and "open (ON)" in response to the operation of the switching button 43.

[0074] When the first solenoid valve 31 to the fourth solenoid valve 34 are "closed," hot or cold water is not discharged from the faucet 21, hand shower 22, overhead shower 23, or warm pillar 24. When any one of the first solenoid valve 31 to the fourth solenoid valve 34 is "open," hot or cold water is discharged from the faucet 21, hand shower 22, overhead shower 23, or warm pillar 24 that corresponds to the solenoid valve that is "open."

[0075] The first solenoid valve 31 switches between discharging hot and cold water at the faucet 21 and stopping the water flow. The second solenoid valve 32 switches between discharging hot and cold water at the hand shower 22 and stopping the water flow. The third solenoid valve 33 switches between discharging hot and cold water at the overhead shower 23 and stopping the water flow. The fourth solenoid valve 34 switches between discharging hot and cold water at the warm pillar 24 and stopping the water flow.

[0076] For example, when the first solenoid valve 31 is "open" and the second solenoid valve 32 to the fourth solenoid valve are "closed", hot and cold water is discharged from the faucet .

[0077] Fifth solenoid valve 35 is switched between "closed (OFF)" and "open (ON)" in response to switching of the water discharge mode using remote control 4 or operation by external device 6 (for example, a remote control installed in the bathroom). Fifth solenoid valve 35 is a valve for discharging residual water from hoses such as hand shower 22 and from pipes, and is normally kept "closed." In other words, fifth solenoid valve 35 is "open" when residual water treatment is performed. When fifth solenoid valve 35 is "open," residual water is discharged from hot water waiting outlet 25a via residual water discharge flow path 25.

[0078] The control device 7 controls the motors 62, 72 and the first solenoid valve 31 to the fourth solenoid valve 34 in response to the operation of the faucet body 3 received by operating the remote control 4. The control device 7 also controls the fifth solenoid valve 35 in response to the operation of the remote control 4 or the external device 6, for example.

[0079] For example, the control device 7 controls the operation of the motor 62 in response to the user's operation of the remote control 4, thereby controlling the temperature of the mixed hot water discharged from the water discharger 2. As described above, the temperature of the mixed hot water includes a standard operating temperature range, a high setting temperature range, and a low setting temperature range. The low setting temperature range is set with a larger temperature interval than the standard operating temperature range and the high setting temperature range. In other words, the setting temperatures in the high setting temperature range are closer together than the setting temperatures in the low setting temperature range. Therefore, the control device 7 controls the temperature of the mixed hot water by setting the setting temperatures in the high setting temperature range closer together than the setting temperatures in the low setting temperature range, starting from the standard operating temperature range.

[0080] The control device 7 is a controller. The control device 7 includes, for example, a microcomputer having a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc., and various circuits. The control device 7 may also include hardware such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0081] The communication unit 5 receives operation signals from the remote control 4 and the external device 6, and transmits the received operation signals to the control device 7. The remote control 4 and the external device 6 are connected to the communication unit 5 via wired communication or wireless communication. The control device 7 is connected to the communication unit 5 via wired communication or wireless communication.

[0082] Next, the faucet body 3 will be described with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the faucet body 3. The faucet body 3 comprises a mixer faucet unit 50, a water discharge switching unit 30, and a control device 7 (see Figure 4), as well as a flow path unit 9. The faucet body 3 is attached to the wall 14a of the bathroom unit 10 (see Figure 1) by the flow path unit 9.

[0083] The flow path unit 9 is formed with a hot water supply path 39 (see Figure 4) that allows hot water supplied from a hot water supply source 37 (see Figure 4) to flow into the mixer tap unit 50, a water supply path 46 (see Figure 4) that allows water supplied from a water supply source 44 (see Figure 3) to flow into the mixer tap unit 50, and flow paths that allow hot and cold water to flow from the mixer tap unit 50 to each water discharge section 2. The flow path unit 9 is also provided with a water discharge switching section 30. The flow path unit 9 is also provided with stop valves 38, 45 (see Figure 4). The flow path unit 9 is also provided with a residual water discharge flow path 25.

[0084] In the faucet body 3, a flow path unit 9 is provided at the rear, and a mixer faucet unit 50 is provided in front of the flow path unit 9. A part of the flow path unit 9 is provided above the mixer faucet unit 50. Also, a control box 7a that houses the control device 7 is provided in front of the mixer faucet unit 50.

[0085] Next, the mixer faucet unit 50 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 6 and 7. Figure 6 is a perspective view of the mixer faucet unit 50. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line VII-VII shown in Figure 6.

[0086] 6 and 7, the mixer faucet unit 50 includes a unit body 51, a temperature adjustment motor section 60, a flow adjustment motor section 70, a hot and cold water mixing section 80, and a flow rate adjustment section 100. The mixer faucet unit 50 has a water outlet 52 provided in the unit body 51, and discharges hot and cold water from the water outlet 52.

[0087] The unit body 51 extends in the left-right direction. The hot and cold water mixer 80 and the flow rate adjuster 100 are inserted in the left-right direction into the unit body 51. That is, the insertion directions of the hot and cold water mixer 80 and the flow rate adjuster 100 coincide with the left-right direction.

[0088] A hot water inlet 53 connected to hot water supply passage 39 (see FIG. 4) is formed on the left side of unit body 51. A water inlet 54 connected to water supply passage 46 (see FIG. 4) is formed in the middle of unit body 51 in the left-right direction. Unit body 51 has hot water inlet 53 and water inlet 54 formed adjacent to each other in the left-right direction.

[0089] The temperature adjustment-side motor section 60 includes a cover 61 and a motor 62, and is provided at the left end of the unit body 51. The cover 61 is provided at the left end of the unit body 51 via a spacer 55. The motor 62 is provided inside the cover 61. The flow adjustment-side motor section 70 includes a cover 71 and a motor 72, and is provided at the right end of the unit body 51. The cover 71 is provided at the right end of the unit body 51 via a spacer 56. The motor 72 is provided inside the cover 71.

[0090] Motor 62 is an actuator that operates hot and cold water mixing section 80. Motor 62 switches whether or not to mix cold and hot water depending on the rotational position (drive amount) of motor 62. Furthermore, when discharging mixed hot and cold water, motor 62 sets the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water depending on the rotational position (drive amount) of motor 62. Motor 72 adjusts the flow rate of hot and cold water depending on the rotational position (drive amount) of motor 72.

[0091] The hot and cold water mixing unit 80 includes a main body casing 81, a temperature control valve 82, a temperature-sensitive spring 83 (temperature-sensitive biasing unit), a bias spring 84, a liner 85, and a spindle 86.

[0092] The main body casing 81 comprises a first main body casing 87 and a second main body casing 88. A hot water inlet 87a, which is a hot water inlet for the internal space of the main body casing 81, and a water inlet 87b, which is a cold water inlet for the same internal space, are formed in the peripheral wall of the first main body casing 87. A mixed hot water outlet 88a is formed in the right end of the second main body casing 88. The hot water inlet 87a, the water inlet 87b, and the mixed hot water outlet 88a are holes that connect the internal space of the main body casing 81 to the outside. The hot water inlet 87a and the water inlet 87b are formed in the middle part of the main body casing 81 in the left-right direction, so that the hot water inlet 87a is located to the left of the water inlet 87b.

[0093] The outer space of the main casing 81 is divided by O-rings 89a, 89b, and 89c, which are sealing members, so that the outer space of the main casing 81 is formed with an annular hot water flow path 89 facing the hot water inlet 87a and an annular water flow path 90 facing the cold water inlet 87b.

[0094] A water discharge flow path 91 is formed in the internal space of the main body casing 81. The water discharge flow path 91 can be communicated with the water discharge port 52 via the mixed hot and cold water outlet 88a and the flow adjustment valve .

[0095] The temperature-sensing spring 83 is housed in the second main body casing 88. The temperature-sensing spring 83 is provided in the water discharge flow path 91. The temperature-sensing spring 83 is a spring whose spring constant changes according to temperature, and is made of, for example, a shape memory alloy (SMA). The temperature-sensing spring 83 biases the temperature control valve 82 to the left. The temperature-sensing spring 83 changes according to the temperature of the mixed hot water and adjusts the opening of the hot water inlet 87a and the cold water inlet 87b.

[0096] The bias spring 84 is housed in the first main body casing 87, which is provided to the left of the second main body casing 88. The bias spring 84 is provided in the water discharge flow path 91. The bias spring 84 is a spring whose spring constant is approximately constant with respect to temperature. The bias spring 84 biases the temperature control valve 82 to the right.

[0097] The temperature control valve 82 is provided inside the right side of the first main body casing 87. The temperature control valve 82 is incorporated so as to be slidable along the axial direction (left-right direction) of the first main body casing 87. The temperature control valve 82 moves left-right in response to the biasing force of the bias spring 84 and the biasing force of the temperature-sensing spring 83, and adjusts the state of communication between the hot water annular flow path 89 and the cold water annular flow path 90 and the water discharge flow path 91. The temperature control valve 82 adjusts the opening of the hot water inlet 87a and the cold water inlet 87b.

[0098] Specifically, the temperature control valve 82 is held in a position where the biasing force of the bias spring 84 and the biasing force of the temperature sensing spring 83 are balanced. As the temperature control valve 82 moves to the right, the opening of the hot water inlet 87a increases and the opening of the water inlet 87b decreases, so that the amount of hot water supplied to the water discharge flow path 91 increases and the amount of water decreases, and the temperature of the mixed hot water rises. As the temperature control valve 82 moves to the left, the opening of the hot water inlet 87a decreases and the opening of the water inlet 87b increases, so that the amount of hot water supplied into the main casing 81 decreases and the amount of water increases, and the temperature of the mixed hot water drops.

[0099] The liner 85 abuts against the end of the bias spring 84 opposite the temperature control valve 82, and is connected to the motor 62 via a spindle 86. The spindle 86 converts the rotational motion of the motor 62 into linear motion in the left-right direction of the liner 85. Therefore, the liner 85 moves left-right in response to the rotation of the motor 62.

[0100] In the hot and cold water mixing unit 80, the liner 85 moves left and right in accordance with the rotational position of the motor 62, and the position of the left end of the bias spring 84 is changed. Therefore, the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 can change the position of the temperature control valve 82 where the biasing force of the bias spring 84 and the biasing force of the temperature-sensing spring 83 are balanced in accordance with the rotational position of the motor 62. Therefore, when discharging mixed hot and cold water, the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 can set the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water to a temperature that corresponds to the rotational position of the motor 62.

[0101] Furthermore, when discharging mixed hot water, if the temperature of the hot water changes and the temperature of the mixed hot water changes, the temperature-sensitive spring 83 expands and contracts according to the temperature of the mixed hot water, the temperature control valve 82 moves left and right, and the equilibrium position of the temperature control valve 82 is automatically changed. This adjusts the amount of hot water and cold water flowing into the water discharge flow path 91, and the temperature of the mixed hot water is automatically adjusted.

[0102] The flow rate adjusting unit 100 includes a spindle 101 and a flow regulation valve 102. One end of the spindle 101 is connected to the motor 72, and the other end is connected to the flow regulation valve 102.

[0103] The flow regulation valve 102 is provided in the water discharge flow path 91. The flow regulation valve 102 rotates in accordance with the rotation of the motor 72. A communication port 102a is formed in the flow regulation valve 102. The flow regulation valve 102 is provided so as to face the water discharge port 52 of the unit main body 51. The flow regulation valve 102 rotates in accordance with the rotation of the motor 72, thereby changing the communication area between the communication port 102a and the water discharge port 52 and thereby changing the flow rate.

[0104] Specifically, when the motor 72 is in a predetermined water stop position, the communication port 102a does not communicate with the water discharge port 52. Therefore, when the motor 72 is in the predetermined water stop position, hot or cold water is not discharged from the water discharger 2.

[0105] When the motor 72 rotates from the water stop position to the water discharge position, for example, the communication port 102a communicates with the water discharge port 52. As a result, hot and cold water is discharged from the water discharge port 52.

[0106] The flow regulation valve 102 can change the area of ​​communication between the communication port 102a and the water discharge port 52 according to the rotational position of the motor 72. In other words, the flow rate adjustment unit 100 can adjust the flow rate of hot and cold water discharged from the water discharge unit 2 according to the rotational position of the motor 72.

[0107] The faucet device 1 comprises a water outlet 2 that discharges water into the bathroom, a hot and cold water mixer 80 that mixes the hot and cold water supplied to the water outlet 2, a control device 7 that controls the operation of the motor 62 of the hot and cold water mixer 80, and a remote control 4 that accepts the user's setting of the hot and cold water temperature and sends an operation signal corresponding to the setting temperature setting to the control device 7. The remote control 4 comprises a first display 45a that displays the setting temperature. Starting from the standard operating temperature range, the control device 7 sets the setting temperature in the high temperature setting temperature range on the higher side closer to the setting temperature in the low temperature setting temperature range on the lower side.

[0108] This allows the user to quickly change the hot and cold water temperature with minimal operation when changing the hot and cold water temperature in the low temperature setting range. Furthermore, the user can precisely change the hot and cold water temperature when changing the hot and cold water temperature in the standard operating temperature range and the high temperature setting range. In other words, the user can adjust the hot and cold water temperature to their preferred level when changing the hot and cold water temperature in the standard operating temperature range and the high temperature setting range. In this way, the faucet device 1 improves the user's operability in setting the hot and cold water temperature.

[0109] The first display section 45a displays the set temperature in levels.

[0110] This allows the user to set a relative temperature based on their own temperature sensation for hot and cold water. For example, if the set temperature is displayed as a number (e.g., Celsius) and the user's temperature sensation differs from that of the hot and cold water discharged from the water discharger 2, the user may feel uncomfortable. By displaying the set temperature as a level on the first display unit 45a, the faucet device 1 can prevent the user from feeling uncomfortable about the temperature of the hot and cold water discharged from the water discharger 2. Furthermore, the user can adjust the temperature of the hot and cold water by operating the remote control 4 based on their own temperature sensation, changing the level display. Therefore, the faucet device 1 can improve the operability of adjusting the temperature of the hot and cold water.

[0111] Furthermore, the first display section 45a changes the level by one step in response to one operation of the set temperature by the user.

[0112] This allows the faucet device 1 to appropriately change the temperature of hot and cold water in response to the user's operation. Furthermore, the faucet device 1 can ensure that the result of the user's operation is reflected on the first display unit 45a. Therefore, the user can check the result of the operation on the set temperature on the first display unit 45a.

[0113] The temperature intervals in the reference operating temperature range and the high set temperature range are the same, and the temperature intervals in the low set temperature range are larger than the temperature intervals in the reference operating temperature range and the high set temperature range.

[0114] This allows the user to quickly change the hot and cold water temperature with minimal operation when changing the hot and cold water temperature in the low temperature setting range. The user can also change the set temperature in the same temperature intervals in the basic operating temperature range and the high temperature setting range. Therefore, the faucet device 1 improves the user's ease of use in setting the hot and cold water temperature.

[0115] The hot and cold water mixing section 80 also includes a main casing 81 in which a water inlet 87b, a hot water inlet 87a, and a mixed hot and cold water outlet 88a are formed, a temperature-sensitive spring 83 that changes according to the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water and can adjust the opening of the hot water inlet 87a and the water inlet 87b, and a temperature control valve 82 that is arranged within the main casing 81 so as to be able to slide freely along the axial direction of the main casing 81 and can adjust the opening of the hot water inlet 87a and the water inlet 87b.

[0116] This allows the faucet device 1 to prevent the user from feeling uncomfortable when the user operates the installed temperature and the hot and cold water mixing unit 80 adjusts the opening of the hot water inlet 87a and the cold water inlet 87b to adjust the temperature of the hot and cold water discharged from the water discharge unit 2. The hot and cold water mixing unit 80 may not cause the hot and cold water temperature to change linearly in response to a change in the set temperature due to the temperature characteristics of the temperature-sensitive spring 83. The faucet device 1 can prevent the user from feeling uncomfortable even when it has the hot and cold water mixing unit 80, for example, by displaying the set temperature in stages.

[0117] The standard operating temperature range is 39°C or higher and 41°C or lower. The high temperature setting range is higher than 41°C and lower than 45°C. The low temperature setting range is 35°C or higher and lower than 39°C.

[0118] This allows the faucet device 1 to discharge hot and cold water from the water discharger 2 at a temperature suitable for the user.

[0119] In addition, the hot and cold water temperature that can be set has one temperature step between "35°C" and "cold water."

[0120] This allows the faucet device 1 to discharge low-temperature hot water from the water discharger 2. A user can use low-temperature hot water after exercise or in the summer, for example.

[0121] The intermediate temperature level of the reference operating temperature range is the center level of the level display. The level display is evenly distributed between the high temperature side and the low temperature side for the intermediate temperature level.

[0122] This allows the user to easily recognize the state of the hot and cold water temperature setting when the hot and cold water temperature is set to the high or low side on the level-displayed first display section 45a. For example, when the current level is higher than the center level of the level display, the user can easily recognize that the hot and cold water temperature is on the high side. In addition, the user can easily recognize how much higher or lower the hot and cold water temperature setting is compared to the intermediate temperature level.

[0123] The level indication on first display section 45a may be displayed by color or size. For example, the level indication on first display section 45a may be displayed by a stepwise change in color. Alternatively, the level indication on first display section 45a may be displayed by a stepwise change in size of a gauge.

[0124] The temperature interval in the high setting temperature range may be smaller than the temperature interval in the standard use temperature range. For example, the temperature interval in the standard use temperature range is 1°C, and the temperature interval in the high setting temperature range is 0.5°C. In this case, the temperature interval in the low setting temperature range is larger than the temperature interval in the standard use temperature range. For example, the temperature interval in the low setting temperature range is 2°C.

[0125] This allows the user to quickly change the hot and cold water temperature with minimal operation when changing the hot and cold water temperature in the low temperature setting range. As a result, the faucet device 1 improves the user's operability in setting the hot and cold water temperature. Furthermore, in the high temperature setting range, the faucet device 1 can prevent the hot and cold water temperature from changing significantly in response to the user's operation of the set temperature. For example, the faucet device 1 can prevent the hot and cold water temperature from suddenly increasing.

[0126] Furthermore, the number of temperature setting steps on the first display section 45a is not limited to 11. The number of temperature setting steps on the first display section 45a may be 12 or more. The number of temperature setting steps on the first display section 45a may be less than 11.

[0127] <Additional Notes> [Appendix 1] A water outlet that discharges water into the bathroom; A hot and cold water mixing unit that mixes hot and cold water to be supplied to the water discharge unit; A control device that controls the operation of the actuator of the hot and cold water mixing unit; an operation unit that receives an operation of a hot and cold water setting temperature by a user and transmits an operation signal corresponding to the operation of the hot and cold water setting temperature to the control device; Equipped with The operation unit includes a display unit that displays the set temperature. Equipped with The control device is a faucet device that sets the set temperature of the high temperature setting temperature range on the higher side closer to the set temperature of the low temperature setting temperature range on the lower side, starting from the standard operating temperature range. [Appendix 2] The faucet device according to claim 1, wherein the display unit displays the set temperature as a level. [Appendix 3] The faucet device described in Appendix 2, wherein the display unit changes the level by one step in response to a single operation of the set temperature by the user. [Appendix 4] The temperature intervals in the reference use temperature range and the high set temperature range are the same, 4. The faucet device according to any one of appendixes 1 to 3, wherein the temperature interval in the low temperature setting range is greater than the temperature interval in the standard use temperature range and the high temperature setting range. [Appendix 5] a temperature interval in the high temperature setting range is smaller than a temperature interval in the standard use temperature range, 4. The faucet device according to any one of appendixes 1 to 3, wherein the temperature interval in the low temperature setting range is greater than the temperature interval in the standard use temperature range. [Appendix 6] The hot and cold water mixing section a main body casing in which a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet, and a mixed hot and cold water outlet are formed; A temperature-sensing biasing unit that changes according to the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water and can adjust the opening degree of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet; a valve body provided in the main body casing so as to be slidable along the axial direction of the main body casing, and capable of adjusting the opening degree of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet; 6. The faucet device according to any one of appendices 1 to 5, comprising: [Appendix 7] The reference use temperature range is 39°C or higher and 41°C or lower, The high temperature setting range is higher than 41°C and lower than 45°C, 7. The faucet device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the low temperature setting range is 35°C or higher and lower than 39°C. [Appendix 8] The faucet device of claim 7, wherein the settable temperature for hot and cold water has one temperature step between 35°C and the cold water setting. [Appendix 9] the level of the intermediate temperature of the reference use temperature range is the center level of the level display, A faucet device as described in Appendix 2, wherein the level display is evenly allocated to the high temperature side and the low temperature side for the intermediate temperature level.

[0128] Further advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0129] 1. Faucet equipment 2. Water outlet 3 Faucet body 4 Remote control (operation unit) 7 Control Device 45a 1st display section (display section) 80 Hot water mixing section 81 Main casing 82 Temperature control valve (valve body) 83 Temperature-sensing spring (temperature-sensing biasing part) 87a Soup flows into the mouth 87b Water inlet 88a Mixed Soup Outlet

Claims

1. A water outlet that discharges water into the bathroom; A hot and cold water mixing unit that mixes hot and cold water to be supplied to the water discharge unit; A control device that controls the operation of the actuator of the hot and cold water mixing unit; an operation unit that receives an operation of a hot and cold water setting temperature by a user and transmits an operation signal corresponding to the operation of the hot and cold water setting temperature to the control device; Equipped with The operation unit includes a display unit that displays the set temperature. Equipped with The control device is a faucet device that sets the set temperature of the high temperature setting temperature range on the higher side closer to the set temperature of the low temperature setting temperature range on the lower side, starting from the standard operating temperature range.

2. The water faucet device according to claim 1 , wherein the display unit displays the set temperature in levels.

3. The water faucet device according to claim 2 , wherein the display unit changes the level by one step in response to a single operation of the set temperature by the user.

4. The temperature intervals in the reference use temperature range and the high set temperature range are the same, The water faucet device according to claim 1 , wherein the temperature interval in the low temperature setting range is greater than the temperature interval in the standard operating temperature range and the high temperature setting range.

5. a temperature interval in the high temperature setting range is smaller than a temperature interval in the standard use temperature range, The water faucet device according to claim 1 , wherein the temperature interval in the low temperature setting range is greater than the temperature interval in the standard operating temperature range.

6. The hot and cold water mixing section a main body casing in which a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet, and a mixed hot and cold water outlet are formed; A temperature-sensing biasing unit that changes according to the temperature of the mixed hot and cold water and adjusts the opening degree of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet; a valve body provided in the main body casing so as to be slidable along the axial direction of the main body casing, and capable of adjusting the opening degree of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet; The water faucet device according to claim 1 , comprising:

7. The reference use temperature range is 39°C or higher and 41°C or lower, The high temperature setting range is higher than 41°C and lower than 45°C, The water faucet device according to claim 1, wherein the low temperature setting range is equal to or higher than 35°C and lower than 39°C.

8. The water faucet device according to claim 7, wherein the settable temperature of hot and cold water has one temperature step between 35°C and the cold water setting.

9. the level of the intermediate temperature of the reference use temperature range is the center level of the level display, The water faucet device according to claim 2 , wherein the level indication is evenly distributed between the high temperature side and the low temperature side for the intermediate temperature level.

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