Faucet device for bathroom

Abstract

To provide a faucet device for a bathroom capable of optimally preparing hot water according to the surrounding environment of the bathroom and more effectively reducing waste water.SOLUTION: This faucet device 1 for the bathroom includes a faucet body 6 and a water discharge part 10,12,14,16, and the faucet body includes a hot water / cold water mixing part 40, a water discharge / stop switching part 60, a drain passage 62 provided on the downstream side of the hot water / cold water mixing part and communicating with the outside of the faucet body to discharge water into the bathroom B, a drain switching valve 64, a control part 68, and a timer. In the warm-water preparing mode M, the control unit closes the drain selector when the integrated flow amount Q4 of the hot water detected by the flow amount sensor 74 becomes equal to or more than the predetermined value Q5 after the drain selector is opened, or when the elapsed time t0 from the start of the warm-water preparing mode detected by the timer becomes equal to or more than the predetermined value tu, and the control unit can execute the calibration mode for adjusting the setting of the predetermined value Q5 or tu while discharging the water from the drain path.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a bathroom faucet device, and more particularly to a bathroom faucet device that can drain remaining water upstream before hot or cold water is discharged from the water discharge section. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, as described in Patent Document 1, for example, bathroom faucet devices have been known that, when hot water is discharged from the discharge part of a faucet or shower head, perform a so-called "hot water preparation" by discharging any hot water remaining in the flow path within the faucet body in advance so as to prevent cold water from being discharged when the water starts to be discharged, thereby shortening the waiting time until the hot water is actually discharged. In such conventional bathroom faucet devices, a drainage device is provided downstream of the flow rate adjustment unit and upstream of the water discharge unit, and this drainage device drains and drains the hot water in the flow path downstream of the flow rate adjustment unit before hot water is discharged from the water discharge unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-48983 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the above-mentioned conventional bathroom faucet device has a problem in that a large amount of water is wasted when the water drain time is prolonged during hot water preparation. Therefore, in recent years, it has become an increasingly important issue to find ways to effectively reduce water waste and prepare optimal hot water, particularly depending on the surrounding environment of the bathroom (such as the season and the usage conditions of the installation location).

[0005] Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve the problems of the conventional technology mentioned above and the issues that have been required in recent years, and aims to provide a bathroom faucet device that can prepare hot water optimally according to the surrounding environment of the bathroom and more effectively reduce wasted water. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a bathroom faucet device, which includes a faucet body that is installed in the bathroom and receives hot water and cold water from a hot water supply source and a cold water supply source, a water discharge section that is installed downstream of the faucet body and discharges hot water, cold water, or a mixture of hot and cold water supplied from the faucet body, and an operating section that is operated by a user. The faucet body includes a hot and cold water mixing section that mixes hot water and cold water, an actuator that operates the hot and cold water mixing section, a water discharge / stop switching section that switches the water discharge section between a water discharge state and a water stop state, a drainage channel that is installed downstream of the hot and cold water mixing section and communicates with the outside of the faucet body to drain water into the bathroom, a drainage switching valve that switches the drainage channel on and off, and and a control unit having a hot water preparation mode that opens and closes the drain switching valve in response to commands from an operating unit to control the drainage of hot water from the drain channel, and the faucet body is equipped with a timer or a flow sensor that detects the flow rate of hot water or mixed hot water flowing within the faucet body, and after opening the drain switching valve in the hot water preparation mode, the control unit closes the drain switching valve when the elapsed time since the start of the hot water preparation mode detected by the timer or the flow rate detected by the flow sensor becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and the control unit is capable of executing a calibration mode that adjusts the setting of the predetermined threshold while draining water from the drain channel. In the present invention configured in this manner, when the hot water preparation mode is terminated based on the elapsed time since the start of the hot water preparation mode detected by the timer or the flow rate detected by the flow sensor, compared to when the user manually determines and terminates the hot water preparation mode at a threshold value, the control unit executes a calibration mode in which it adjusts the setting of a predetermined threshold value while draining water from the drainage channel, making it possible to terminate the hot water preparation mode at the optimal timing according to the installation site. This allows the hot water preparation mode to be executed optimally depending on the surrounding environment of the bathroom (seasonal usage environment, usage conditions at the installation location, etc.), thereby more effectively reducing wasted water.

[0007] In the present invention, preferably, in the calibration mode, the control section controls the actuator so that the opening of the hot water side opening of the hot and cold water mixing section becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined opening, thereby draining water from the drainage channel. In the present invention configured in this manner, it is possible to prevent a state in which the hot water side opening of the hot water / cold water mixing section is almost closed and hot water is not supplied from the hot water supply side before the control section executes the calibration mode, thereby preventing the calibration mode from functioning normally.

[0008] In the present invention, the opening degree of the hot water side opening of the hot and cold water mixing portion in the calibration mode is preferably equal to or smaller than the opening degree of the hot water side opening in the hot water preparation mode. In the present invention configured in this manner, the opening degree of the hot water side opening of the hot water mixing section in the calibration mode is equal to or less than the opening degree of the hot water side opening in the hot water preparation mode, so that the threshold value is adjusted under conditions in which cold water is less likely to drain in the calibration mode than in the hot water preparation mode, and therefore cold water can be reliably drained in the actual hot water preparation mode.

[0009] In the present invention, preferably, the faucet body further includes a hot water supply line extending downstream from the water heater and connected to the hot water / cold water mixing section, and a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the hot water in the hot water supply line or the hot water / cold water mixed in the hot water / cold water mixing section, and in the calibration mode, when the temperature sensor detects a predetermined temperature of the hot water or hot water, the elapsed time since the start of the hot water preparation mode detected by the timer or the flow rate detected by the flow rate sensor is stored as the predetermined threshold value. In the present invention configured in this manner, the faucet body further includes a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the hot water in the hot water supply line or the hot water mixed in the hot water / cold water mixing section, and in the calibration mode, when the temperature sensor detects a predetermined temperature, the elapsed time since the start of the hot water preparation mode detected by the timer or the flow rate detected by the flow sensor can be stored as a predetermined threshold value. Therefore, the predetermined threshold value can be adjusted more easily than when the user adjusts the predetermined threshold value while measuring the temperature of the hot and cold water mixed in the hot and cold water mixing section.

[0010] In the present invention, preferably, the faucet body further includes a hot water supply passage extending downstream from the water heater and connected to the hot water / cold water mixing section, and the flow sensor includes a first flow sensor provided in the hot water supply passage for detecting the instantaneous flow rate of hot water, and a second flow sensor provided in the flow path downstream of the hot water / cold water mixing section, and in the calibration mode, after opening the drain switching valve, if the instantaneous flow rate detected by the first flow sensor is less than a certain value, the control unit abnormally stops the calibration mode. In the present invention configured in this manner, if the instantaneous flow rate detected by the first flow sensor is less than a certain value after the control unit opens the drain switching valve in the calibration mode, the calibration mode can be abnormally stopped. This makes it easy to use because when the calibration mode is executed, the user can be notified quickly that there is little chance that the calibration mode will ever end due to, for example, a malfunction occurring in the water heater upstream of the hot water supply path. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the bathroom faucet device of the present invention, hot water can be prepared optimally according to the ambient environment of the bathroom, and water waste can be reduced more effectively. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an entire hot water supply system including a bathroom faucet device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a system configuration diagram of a bathroom faucet device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 is a partial side cross-sectional view of a bathroom faucet device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4A] 1 is a front view of a bathroom remote control for a bathroom faucet device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, showing the state before the hot water preparation mode is executed. FIG. [Figure 4B] 1 is a front view of the bathroom remote control for the bathroom faucet device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, showing the state in which hot water preparation mode is being executed. FIG. [Figure 5] 4 is a flowchart of normal hot water preparation processing (first hot water preparation mode) in the hot water preparation mode of the bathroom faucet device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart of the hot water preparation process (second hot water preparation mode) from the overhead shower water spouting portion and the overhead pillar water spouting portion in the hot water preparation mode of the bathroom faucet device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the bathroom faucet device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is performing hot water preparation processing (second hot water preparation mode) from the overhead shower spouting section and the overhead pillar spouting section in hot water preparation mode. [Figure 8] 4 is a flowchart of calibration control accompanying drain stop control in the hot water preparation mode of the bathroom faucet device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9]10 is a flowchart of calibration control accompanying drain stop control in the hot water preparation mode of a bathroom faucet device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] A bathroom faucet device according to a first embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. First, FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the entire hot water supply system including a bathroom faucet device according to this embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a system configuration diagram of the bathroom faucet device according to this embodiment. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, a hot water supply system S including a bathroom faucet device 1 according to this embodiment has a water supply source 2 such as a water supply system and a hot water supply source (water heater 4) installed outdoors O. Next, the bathroom faucet device 1 according to this embodiment includes a faucet body 6 installed in the bathroom B. Furthermore, the faucet body 6, the various components of which will be described later, is designed to supply cold water and hot water from the water supply source 2 and the hot water supply source (water heater 4), respectively, and is positioned below the counter C1 attached to the wall W in the bathroom B. The faucet device 1 also has a water discharge section 8 provided on the downstream side (secondary side) of the faucet body 6. This water discharge section 8 has multiple water discharge sections 10, 12, 14, and 16 (hand shower water discharge section 10, faucet water discharge section 12, overhead shower water discharge section 14, and overhead pillar water discharge section 16). Each of the water discharge sections 10, 12, 14, and 16 is capable of discharging hot water, cold water, or a mixture of hot and cold water supplied from the faucet body 6 on the upstream side (primary side).

[0014] Here, the hand shower water spouting portion 10 is equipped with a shower head 10a having a different form from the overhead shower water spouting portion 14 and the overhead pillar water spouting portion 16. On the other hand, the overhead shower spout 14 and the overhead pillar spout 16 are equipped with a common, generally circular shower head (overhead shower head OH) that is installed so as to protrude downward from the ceiling surface in bathroom B. Moreover, the water discharge form of the overhead shower water discharger 14 is a spray form in which water is discharged from a plurality of spray holes 14a. In contrast, the water discharge pattern of the overhead pillar water discharge section 16 is such that water is discharged from a single water discharge port 16a in the center of the overhead shower head OH, and the diameter of this single water discharge port 16a is set larger than the diameter of each of the multiple spray holes 14a of the overhead shower water discharge section 14. As a result, the water discharge flow rate (instantaneous flow rate) Q1 [L / min] discharged from the single water discharge port 16a of the overhead pillar water discharge section 16 is set to be greater than the water discharge flow rate (instantaneous flow rate) Q2 [L / min] discharged from the multiple spray holes 14a of the overhead shower water discharge section 14 (Q1>Q2). In this specification, a "shower head" is defined as a device that sprays water toward the user's body.

[0015] Furthermore, faucet device 1 is equipped with bathroom remote control 18 and outside bathroom remote control 20. Bathroom remote control 18 is installed in bathroom B and is an operation unit (first operation unit) that is operated by a user in bathroom B. On the other hand, the outside bathroom remote control 20 is an operation unit (second operation unit) that is installed outside the bathroom B, for example, in a washroom that also serves as a changing room or a kitchen, and is remotely operated by a user outside the bathroom B, but this second operation unit may also be replaced by a mobile communication terminal such as a smartphone.

[0016] Next, the configuration of the faucet body 6 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. As shown in Figure 2, the faucet body 6 first has a water-side stop valve 24, a water-side check valve 26, and a water-side drain plug 28 in the primary water supply passage 22 extending from the upstream water supply source 2 side to the downstream side. In addition, the faucet body 6 is provided with a hot water side stop valve 32, a hot water side check valve 34, a hot water side drain plug 36, and a hot water side temperature sensor 38 in the primary hot water supply path 30 extending from the upstream hot water source 4 side to the downstream side. Furthermore, the faucet body 6 is equipped with a hot and cold water mixing section 40 to which the downstream sides of the water supply passage 22 and the hot water supply passage 30 are connected to mix hot and cold water, a flow rate adjustment section 42 provided downstream of this hot and cold water mixing section 40, and a temperature sensor 44 provided downstream of this flow rate adjustment section 42. The hot and cold water mixed in the hot and cold water mixer 40 is adjusted to a predetermined flow rate by the flow rate adjuster 42, and then the temperature of the hot and cold water is measured by the temperature sensor 44.

[0017] Here, the hot and cold water mixing section 40 is equipped with a water inlet 40a, a hot water inlet 40b, a mixed hot and cold water outlet 40c, and a temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) such as an SMA thermo valve that adjusts the opening of the water inlet 40a and the hot water inlet 40b. The flow rate adjustment section 42 also includes a flow regulation valve V2 (valve body 42a) that adjusts the flow rate of the hot and cold water mixed in the hot and cold water mixing section 40. The faucet body 6 also has motors 46, 48 (temperature control motor 46, flow control motor 48) which are actuators that operate the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot and cold water mixing section 40 and the flow control valve V2 (valve body 42a) of the flow rate adjustment section 42, respectively.

[0018] Next, as shown in FIG. 2, the faucet body 6 is provided with a switching unit 50 provided downstream of the temperature sensor 44. The switching unit 50 also has a water discharge / stop switching section 60 which includes solenoid valves 52, 54, 56, 58 (solenoid valve 52 for hand shower, solenoid valve 54 for faucet, solenoid valve 56 for overhead shower, solenoid valve 58 for overhead pillar) which switch each water discharge section 10, 12, 14, 16 to a water discharge state or a water stop state, respectively. Here, the water discharge / stop switching unit 60 has multiple flow paths 60a, 60b, 60c, and 60d that communicate with each of the multiple water discharge units 10, 12, 14, and 16, and each flow path 60a, 60b, 60c, and 60d upstream (primary side) of each solenoid valve 52, 54, 56, and 58 is connected to a connecting flow path 66. As a result, when the water dischargers 10, 12, 14, 16 are discharging water or stopping water, the flow paths 60a, 60b, 60c, 60d are opened and closed by the solenoid valves 52, 54, 56, 58, respectively.

[0019] Next, the faucet body 6 is provided with a drainage channel 62 for preparing hot water, which is provided in the flow path downstream of the hot and cold water mixing section 40 and the temperature sensor 44. The downstream side of this drainage channel 62 is connected to the outside of the faucet body 6 (inside the bathroom B), and is a dedicated drainage channel that is different from the water discharge flow paths of each of the water discharge sections 10, 12, 14, and 16. The switching unit 50 of the faucet body 6 further includes a drain electromagnetic valve 64. This drain electromagnetic valve 64 is a drain switching valve for hot water preparation that is provided at the inlet 62a of the drain path 62 for hot water preparation so as to be able to open and close. Here, the connecting flow path 66 branches into each flow path 60 a , 60 b , 60 c , and 60 d midway downstream of the flow rate adjusting unit 42 and is connected to each of the electromagnetic valves 52 , 54 , 56 , and 58 of the water discharge / stop switching unit 60 . As a result, the solenoid valves 52, 54, 56, and 58 of the water discharge / stop switching unit 60 are arranged in the flow paths 60a, 60b, 60c, and 60d that are respectively located in the middle of the connecting flow path 66 between the hot and cold water mixing unit 40 and the drain solenoid valve 64, so that the drain path 62 and the drain switching valve (drain solenoid valve 64) that opens and closes it are located downstream of the water discharge / stop switching unit 60 in the connecting flow path 66.

[0020] Next, as shown in FIG. 2, the faucet body 6 is equipped with a control section 68 including a communication unit 68A and a control board 68B. The communication unit 68A of the control unit 68 is capable of electrically communicating with both the bathroom remote control 18 and the outside bathroom remote control 20. In addition, the control board 68B of the control unit 68 incorporates a control circuit that receives commands transmitted from each remote control 18, 20 via the communication unit 68A and controls the operation of each motor 46, 48 of the hot and cold water mixing unit 40 and the flow rate adjustment unit 42, a memory that stores the opening degree of each valve body 40d, 42a of the hot and cold water mixing unit 40 and the flow rate adjustment unit 42, and a control circuit that controls the operation of each solenoid valve 52, 54, 56, 58, 64 of the switching unit 50. Furthermore, the control board 68B of the control unit 68 has a built-in control circuit that executes multiple (two) hot water preparation modes M (first hot water preparation mode M1, second hot water preparation mode M2), which will be described in detail later, and before each water outlet 10, 12, 14, 16 starts to discharge water, the hot water in the connecting flow path 66 is drained in advance from the drainage channel 62 in response to a command from each remote control 18, 20, or the water is drained by discharging it from either the overhead shower water outlet 14 or the overhead pillar water outlet 16, thereby executing so-called ``hot water preparation.'' The control board 68B of the control unit 68 also incorporates a timer that detects the elapsed time t0 since the start of the hot water preparation mode M, as well as a learning function for the hot water preparation mode, the details of which will be described later. Furthermore, the control board 68B of the control unit 68 incorporates a control circuit that executes calibration control M3 associated with drainage stop control in the hot water preparation mode M, the details of which will be described later.

[0021] That is, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, in the bathroom faucet device 1 of this embodiment, when normal water discharge is performed, the user operates the bathroom remote control 18, and in response to this command, one of the solenoid valves 52, 54, 56, and 58 of the water discharge / stop switching section 60 in the switching unit 50 opens, and one of the water discharge sections 10, 12, 14, and 16 is switched to a water discharge state, and the other three water discharge sections are switched to a water stop state. On the other hand, before normal water discharge, when the user operates the bathroom remote control 18 or the bathroom remote control 20 to execute the "first hot water preparation mode M1," which will be described in detail later, only the drain solenoid valve 64 of the switching unit 50 opens in response to a command from the operating units 18, 20, and the hot and cold water in the connecting flow path 66 connecting the hot and cold water mixing unit 40 and the drain switching valve 64 is drained from a dedicated drain path 62, separate from each of the water discharge units 10, 12, 14, 16. Furthermore, when the user operates the remote control 20 outside the bathroom to execute the "second hot water preparation mode," which will be described in detail later, the operation unit 20 commands only one of the overhead shower solenoid valve 56 or the overhead pillar solenoid valve 58 of the switching unit 50 to open, and hot water in the connecting flow path 66 is drained from only one of the overhead shower outlet 14 or the overhead pillar outlet 16.

[0022] Next, FIG. 3 is a partial side cross-sectional view of a bathroom faucet device 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the faucet body 6 is housed within a cover C2, and the rear side of this cover C2 is attached to a wall W inside the bathroom B. In addition, the drainage channel 62 has a drain outlet 62b at its downstream end that is directed toward the floor F in the bathroom B below, and is located closer to the wall W than the hot and cold water mixing section 40, so that the hot and cold water W1 for preparing hot water discharged from the drain outlet 62b flows down along the wall W. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the drain outlet 62b of the drain channel 62 is located at a position lower than the counter C1 and is spaced apart at a height greater than the height dimension H1 (= 130 mm) from the floor surface F. In this embodiment, the height H1 from the floor F is set to 130 mm or more, but may be set to 25 mm or more depending on the usage situation.

[0023] Next, the hot water preparation mode will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. Here, for each of the first hot water preparation mode M1 and the second hot water preparation mode M2, it can be set in advance before execution as to whether it will be executed by operating either the operation part of the bathroom remote control 18 or the outside bathroom remote control 20. Therefore, in this embodiment, as an example, an example will be described in which the first hot water preparation mode M1 is set to be executed by operation from both the bathroom remote control 18 and the outside bathroom remote control 20, while the second hot water preparation mode M2 ​​is set to be executed only by operation from the outside bathroom remote control 20. First, the first hot water preparation mode M1 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B are front views of the bathroom remote control of a bathroom faucet device according to this embodiment, showing the state before and during the hot water preparation mode, respectively. Also, FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the normal hot water preparation process (first hot water preparation mode M1) in the hot water preparation mode of the bathroom faucet device according to this embodiment.

[0024] As shown in Figures 4A and 5, when a user in the bathroom wants to prepare hot water, for example, the user presses and holds down two buttons on the bathroom remote control 18, C button 18a for setting cold or hot water and H button 18b for setting hot water, simultaneously for two seconds, and a command signal from the bathroom remote control 18 is sent to the control board 68B via the communication unit 68A of the control unit 68. This causes the alarm unit (not shown) built into the bathroom remote control 18 to beep, confirming the start operation of the normal hot water preparation process (first hot water preparation mode M1) by the bathroom remote control 18, and starts the first hot water preparation mode M1 at step S1 in Figure 5. As shown in FIG. 4B, if the user wishes to cancel the hot water preparation after starting the first hot water preparation mode M1, they can press and hold only the C button 18a for setting the cold / hot setting on the bathroom remote control 18 for at least three seconds, or they can press and hold any one of the multiple water discharge operation buttons 18c, 18d, 18e, 18f (faucet water discharge operation button 18c, hand shower water discharge operation button 18d, overhead shower water discharge operation button 18e, overhead pillar water discharge operation button 18f) that control the water discharge of each of the water discharge sections 10, 12, 14, 16. This will cause the display screen 18g to display the message "Hot water preparation in progress, press [Cancel], C for at least three seconds," and the first hot water preparation mode M1 will be stopped. In addition, if a water discharge operation is performed using any of the water discharge operation buttons 18c, 18d, 18e, and 18f on the first operation unit (bathroom remote control 18) while the first hot water preparation mode M1 is being executed, the control unit 68 can stop the first hot water preparation mode M1 that is being executed.

[0025] Next, as shown in Figure 5, when the first hot water preparation mode M1 is started in step S1, in step S2, the memory of the control board 68B of the control unit 68 stores the current opening position of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot and cold water mixing unit 40 set by the temperature control motor 46, and the current opening position of the flow control valve V2 (valve body 42a) of the flow rate adjustment unit 42 set by the flow control motor 48. Then, in step S3, the temperature control motor 46 drives the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d), and this temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) is set to a predetermined position (origin position), i.e., a position where the initial set temperature T0 of hot water is set to a predetermined temperature (T0 = 42 degrees). In step S4, the flow adjustment motor 48 is returned to its origin, and the opening of the flow adjustment valve V2 (valve element 42a) is set to the maximum so that the flow rate becomes the maximum. In other words, when executing the first hot water preparation mode M1, the control unit 68 controls the temperature control motor 46 and the flow control motor 48 so that hot water flows from the hot water preparation drainage channel 62 at a predetermined flow rate (instantaneous flow rate) Q0 (e.g., Q0 = 10 L / min) at a predetermined temperature T1 (e.g., T1 = 40 degrees), regardless of the hot water temperature set on the bathroom remote control 18. The initial hot and cold water temperature T0 and the predetermined temperature T1 can be changed by the user. Then, in step S5, when the drain solenoid valve 64 is switched from a closed state to an open state, the inlet 62a of the drain channel 62 for preparing hot water is opened, and hot water W1 (see Figures 1 and 3) for preparing hot water is discharged from the drain channel 62 for preparing hot water. At this time, the solenoid valves 52, 54, 56, and 58 of the water discharge / stop switching unit 60 are closed, so that the water discharge units 10, 12, 14, and 16 are maintained in a water stop state.

[0026] Next, as shown in FIG. 5, in step S6, if the hot water temperature T2 set by the bathroom remote control 18 is set to a temperature lower than the predetermined temperature T1 (for example, T2<37 degrees), and the hot water temperature Tm measured by the temperature sensor 44 is lower than 37 degrees (if "NO" in step S6), the temperature control motor 46 is controlled to adjust the opening of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot water mixing section 40 so that the hot water temperature Tm measured by the temperature sensor 44 is 37 degrees or higher, and the hot water temperature T3 discharged from the drainage channel 62 is set to a predetermined temperature (for example, 37 degrees) or higher (T3≧37 degrees). Then, in step S7, if one minute has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S8. On the other hand, in step S6, if the hot water temperature T2 set by the bathroom remote control 18 is set to a temperature higher than the predetermined temperature T1 (T2≧37 degrees), and the hot water temperature Tm measured by the temperature sensor 44 is 37 degrees or higher but lower than 43 degrees (if "YES" in step S6), the opening of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot water mixing section 40 is maintained as is without being changed. Furthermore, if the temperature Tm of the hot water measured by the temperature sensor 44 is 43 degrees or higher, the opening of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot water mixing section 40 is adjusted so that the temperature T3 of the hot water discharged from the drainage channel 62 becomes a predetermined temperature (37 degrees or higher and less than 43 degrees), and the process proceeds to step S8.

[0027] Next, in step S8, "extended drainage" is performed, in which drainage for preparing hot water is continued for a predetermined time t1 (for example, t1=10 seconds). Here, in step S8, the predetermined time t1 for which the drainage continues can be set or changed by the user. Then, in step S9, the drain electromagnetic valve 64 switches from an open state to a closed state, the inlet 62a of the hot water preparation drain path 62 is closed, and the hot water preparation drainage ends.

[0028] Next, as shown in FIG. 5, in step S10, if the hot water setting temperature T2 set by the bathroom remote control 18 before starting the hot water preparation mode was set to a hot water temperature above a predetermined temperature (T2≧37 degrees), and the opening degree of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) memorized by the control unit 68 in step S2 is not the opening degree set to the side that dispenses cold water (hereinafter referred to as the "cold water side opening"), but the opening degree set to the side that dispenses hot water (hereinafter referred to as the "hot water side opening") (if "NO" in step S10), then in step S11, the temperature control motor 46 is operated under the control of the control unit 68, and the opening degree of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot water mixing unit 40 is restored to the opening degree set by the bathroom remote control 18 before starting the hot water preparation mode. Then, in step S12, the flow adjustment motor 48 is operated under the control of the control unit 68, and the opening of the flow adjustment valve V2 (valve body 42a) of the flow rate control unit 42 is restored to the opening set by the bathroom remote control 18 before the hot water preparation mode was started, and then in step S13, the first hot water preparation mode M1 is completed. That is, when completing the first hot water preparation mode M1, the control unit 68 controls the temperature control motor 46 according to the set hot water temperature set by the bathroom remote control 18 to adjust the opening degree of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot water mixing unit 40. In addition, when completing the first hot water preparation mode M1, the control unit 68 controls the flow adjustment motor 48 according to the hot water flow rate set by the bathroom remote control 18 to adjust the opening degree of the flow adjustment valve V2 (valve body 42a) of the flow rate adjustment unit 42.

[0029] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 5, in step S10, if the hot water setting temperature T2 set by the bathroom remote control 18 before starting the hot water preparation mode was set to a cold water temperature below the predetermined temperature (T2 < 37 degrees), and the opening of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) memorized by the control unit 68 in step S2 is the opening on the cold water side (if "YES" in step S10), the opening of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot water mixing unit 40 in step S11 is not restored to the opening on the cold water side, and the opening on the hot water side of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot water mixing unit 40 in the first hot water preparation mode M1 is maintained on the hot water side. Then, in step S12, only the opening degree of the flow regulation valve V2 (valve element 42a) of the flow rate regulator 42 is restored, and then in step S13, the first hot water preparation mode M1 is completed. In other words, when the first hot water preparation mode M1 is executed with the bathroom remote control 18 setting the hot water setting temperature T2 to a cold water temperature below a predetermined temperature (T2 < 37 degrees), the control unit 68 adjusts the opening of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot water mixing unit 40 so that the temperature of the hot water mixed in the hot water mixing unit 40 becomes a hot water temperature warmer than the cold water temperature, and controls the temperature control motor 46 so that the opening of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) is maintained on the hot water side even when the first hot water preparation mode M1 is completed. Also, in step S13, when the first hot water preparation mode M1 is completed, a reception sound from an alarm unit (not shown) built into the bathroom remote control 18 sounds a beep, and the display screen 18g of the bathroom remote control 18 switches from the state shown in Figure 4B to the state shown in Figure 4A. This notifies the user that the first hot water preparation mode M1 has been completed.

[0030] Next, the second hot water preparation mode will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. Fig. 6 is a flowchart of the hot water preparation process (second hot water preparation mode) from the overhead shower spout and overhead pillar spout in the hot water preparation mode of the bathroom faucet device according to this embodiment. Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the hot water preparation process (second hot water preparation mode) from the overhead shower spout and overhead pillar spout is being performed in the hot water preparation mode of the bathroom faucet device according to this embodiment. As shown in Figures 2 and 6, when a user outside the bathroom wants to prepare hot water, for example, the user presses the hot water preparation button 70 on the outside bathroom remote control 20, and a command signal from the outside bathroom remote control 20 is sent to the control board 68B via the communication unit 68A of the control unit 68. As a result, the preparation LED of notification unit 72 provided on outside bathroom remote control 20 lights up, the hot water preparation mode is started, and it is notified that hot water preparation is in progress (step S20).

[0031] Next, in step S21 of FIG. 6, if the control unit 68 does not have a hot water preparation mode (second hot water preparation mode M2) from the overhead shower head OH (if "NO" in step S21), in step S22, the first hot water preparation mode M1 is executed, which is a series of steps S1 to S13 shown in FIG. 5. On the other hand, in step S21, if the control unit 68 has a hot water preparation mode (second hot water preparation mode M2) from the overhead shower head OH (if "YES" in step S21), the second hot water preparation mode M2 ​​is started in step S23. In step S23, similar to step S2 in Figure 5, the memory of the control board 68B of the control unit 68 stores the current opening position of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot and cold water mixing unit 40 set by the temperature control motor 46, and the current opening position of the flow control valve V2 (valve body 42a) of the flow rate adjustment unit 42 set by the flow control motor 48. As shown in FIG. 4B, if the user wishes to cancel the hot water preparation after starting the second hot water preparation mode M2, they can press and hold only the cold / hot setting C button 18a on the bathroom remote control 18 for at least three seconds, or they can press and hold any one of the multiple water discharge operation buttons 18c, 18d, 18e, 18f (faucet water discharge operation button 18c, hand shower water discharge operation button 18d, overhead shower water discharge operation button 18e, overhead pillar water discharge operation button 18f) that control the water discharge of each of the water discharge sections 10, 12, 14, 16. This will cause the display screen 18g to display the message "Hot water preparation in progress, press [Cancel], C for at least three seconds," and the second hot water preparation mode M2 ​​will be stopped. In addition, if a water discharge operation is performed using any of the water discharge operation buttons 18c, 18d, 18e, and 18f on the first operation unit (bathroom remote control 18) while the second hot water preparation mode M2 ​​is being executed, the control unit 68 can stop the second hot water preparation mode M2 ​​that is being executed.

[0032] Then, in step S24 of Figure 6, similar to step S3 of Figure 5, the temperature control motor 46 drives the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d), and this temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) is set to a predetermined position (origin position), i.e., a position where the initial hot water temperature T0 is set to a predetermined temperature (T0 = 42 degrees). Furthermore, in step S25, similar to step S4 in FIG. 5, the flow adjustment motor 48 is returned to its origin, and the opening of the flow adjustment valve V2 (valve element 42a) is set to the maximum so that the flow rate becomes the maximum. In other words, when executing the second hot water preparation mode M2, the control unit 68 controls the temperature control motor 46 and the flow control motor 48 so that hot water flows from the overhead pillar water outlet 16 at a predetermined flow rate (e.g., 10 L / min) at a predetermined temperature T1 (e.g., T1 = 40 degrees), regardless of the hot water temperature set on the remote control 20 outside the bathroom. The initial hot and cold water temperature T0 and the predetermined temperature T1 can be changed by the user. Then, in step S26, when only the overhead pillar solenoid valve 58 is switched from the closed state to the open state, the overhead pillar water discharge section 16 is opened and hot water W2 (see FIG. 7) is discharged from only the single water discharge port 16a to prepare hot water. This discharged hot water W2 is discharged onto the floor F of the bathroom B. At this time, since the solenoid valves 52, 54, 56 other than the overhead pillar solenoid valve 58 in the water discharge / stop switching unit 60 are closed, the water discharge units 10, 12, 14 other than the overhead pillar water discharge unit 16 are maintained in a water stop state. Furthermore, the drain electromagnetic valve 64 of the drain passage 62 for preparing hot water is also maintained in a closed state.

[0033] Next, as shown in FIG. 6, in step S27, if the hot water temperature T2 set by the remote control 20 outside the bathroom is set to a temperature lower than the predetermined temperature T1 (for example, T2 < 37 degrees), and the hot water temperature Tm measured by the temperature sensor 44 is lower than 37 degrees (if "NO" in step S27), the temperature control motor 46 is controlled to adjust the opening of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot water mixing section 40 so that the hot water temperature Tm measured by the temperature sensor 44 is 37 degrees or higher, and the hot water temperature T3 discharged from the drainage channel 62 is higher than the predetermined temperature (37 degrees). Then, in step S28, if one minute has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S29. On the other hand, in step S27, if the hot water temperature T2 set by the remote control 20 outside the bathroom is set to a temperature higher than the predetermined temperature T1 (T2≧37 degrees), and the hot water temperature Tm measured by the temperature sensor 44 is 37 degrees or higher but lower than 43 degrees (if "YES" in step S27), the opening of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot water mixing section 40 is maintained as is without being changed. Furthermore, if the temperature Tm of the hot water measured by the temperature sensor 44 is 43 degrees or higher, the opening of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot water mixing section 40 is adjusted so that the temperature T3 of the hot water discharged from the drainage channel 62 becomes a predetermined temperature (37 degrees or higher and less than 43 degrees), and the process proceeds to step S29.

[0034] Next, as shown in FIG. 6, in step S29, hot and cold water continues to be discharged from the overhead pillar water discharge section 16 for a predetermined time (waiting time of 5 seconds), then in step S30, the overhead pillar solenoid valve 58 closes, and then in step S31, the overhead shower solenoid valve 56 opens. This opens the overhead shower spout 14, and hot water W3 (see FIG. 7) for preparing hot water is discharged only from the multiple spray holes 14a. This discharged hot water W3 is discharged onto the floor F of the bathroom B. At this time, since the solenoid valves 52, 54, 58 other than the overhead shower solenoid valve 56 in the water discharge / stop switching unit 60 are closed, the water discharge units 10, 12, 16 other than the overhead shower water discharge unit 14 are maintained in a water-stopped state. Furthermore, the drain electromagnetic valve 64 of the drain passage 62 for preparing hot water is also maintained in a closed state.

[0035] As a result, when the second hot water preparation mode M2 ​​is executed, the overhead pillar water outlet 16 drains hot water W2 until the hot water temperature Tm detected by the temperature sensor 44 reaches a predetermined temperature (for example, Tm = 37 degrees), and after the hot water temperature detected by the temperature sensor 44 reaches the predetermined temperature (for example, Tm = 37 degrees), the overhead shower water outlet 14 begins draining hot water W3. In addition, the first flow rate (instantaneous flow rate) Q1 [L / min] at which the overhead pillar water outlet 16 discharges water is set to be greater than the second flow rate (instantaneous flow rate) Q2 [L / min] at which the overhead shower water outlet 14 discharges water (Q1>Q2), and in the second hot water preparation mode M2, the drainage of hot water W2 from the overhead pillar water outlet 16 is performed with priority over the drainage of hot water W3 from the overhead shower water outlet 14.

[0036] Next, as shown in FIG. 6, after a waiting time of 5 seconds has elapsed in step S32, an "extended drain" is performed in step S33, in which drainage for preparing hot water is continued for a further predetermined time t2 (for example, t2 = 10 seconds). Here, in step S33, the setting of the predetermined time t2 for which the drainage continues can be changed by the user. Then, in step S34, the overhead shower solenoid valve 56 switches from an open state to a closed state, the overhead shower water outlet 14 is closed, and the water discharge in preparation for hot water ends.

[0037] Next, as shown in FIG. 6, in step S35, if the hot water setting temperature T2 set by the remote control outside the bathroom 20 before starting the hot water preparation mode was set to a hot water temperature above a predetermined temperature (T2≧37 degrees), and the opening degree of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) memorized by the control unit 68 in step S23 is not the opening degree set to the side that discharges cold water (hereinafter referred to as the "cold water side opening"), but the opening degree set to the side that discharges hot water (hereinafter referred to as the "hot water side opening") (if "NO" in step S35), then in step S36, the temperature control motor 46 is operated under the control of the control unit 68, and the opening degree of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot water mixing unit 40 is restored to the opening degree set by the remote control outside the bathroom 20 before starting the hot water preparation mode. Then, in step S37, the flow adjustment motor 48 is operated under the control of the control unit 68, and the opening of the flow adjustment valve V2 (valve body 42a) of the flow rate control unit 42 is returned to the opening set by the outside bathroom remote control 20 before the hot water preparation mode was started, and then in step S38, the second hot water preparation mode M2 ​​is completed. That is, when completing the second hot water preparation mode M2, the control unit 68 controls the temperature control motor 46 according to the set hot water temperature set by the remote control 20 outside the bathroom, to adjust the opening degree of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot water mixing unit 40. In addition, when completing the second hot water preparation mode M2, the control unit 68 controls the flow adjustment motor 48 according to the hot water flow rate set by the remote control 20 outside the bathroom, to adjust the opening degree of the flow adjustment valve V2 (valve body 42a) of the flow rate adjustment unit 42.

[0038] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 6, in step S35, if the set temperature T2 of hot water set by the remote control outside the bathroom 20 before starting the hot water preparation mode was set to a cold water temperature below the predetermined temperature (T2<37 degrees), and the opening of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) memorized by the control unit 68 in step S23 is the opening on the cold water side (if "YES" in step S35), the opening of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot water mixing unit 40 in step S36 is not restored to the opening on the cold water side, and the opening on the hot water side of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot water mixing unit 40 in the second hot water preparation mode M2 ​​is maintained on the hot water side. Then, in step S35, only the opening degree of the flow regulation valve V2 (valve element 42a) of the flow rate regulator 42 is restored, and then in step S38, the second hot water preparation mode M2 ​​is completed. In other words, when the second hot water preparation mode M2 ​​is executed while the set hot water temperature T2 is set by the remote control 20 outside the bathroom to a cold water temperature that is lower than a predetermined temperature (T2 < 37 degrees), the control unit 68 adjusts the opening of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot water mixing unit 40 so that the temperature of the hot water mixed in the hot water mixing unit 40 becomes a hot water temperature that is warmer than the cold water temperature, and controls the temperature control motor 46 so that the opening of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) is maintained on the hot water side even when the second hot water preparation mode M2 ​​is completed. Furthermore, in step S38, when second hot water preparation mode M2 ​​is completed, the preparation LED of notification unit 72 of outside bathroom remote control 20 goes out and then the completion LED lights up. This lit completion LED then goes out three minutes after it started to light up. This notifies the user that the second hot water preparation mode has been completed.

[0039] In the bathroom faucet device 1 of the above-described embodiment, when the second hot water preparation mode M2 ​​is executed, hot water W2 or W3 for hot water preparation is discharged from either the overhead pillar water outlet 16 or the overhead shower water outlet 14. However, in addition to the overhead pillar water outlet 16 and the overhead shower water outlet 14, hot water for hot water preparation may also be discharged from the hand shower water outlet 10 or the faucet water outlet 12.

[0040] Next, as shown in FIG. 2, the faucet body 6 is provided with a first flow rate sensor 74 provided in the primary hot water supply passage 30 downstream of the hot water side temperature sensor . Furthermore, the hot water that has passed through the hot water side temperature sensor 38 of the primary hot water supply passage 30 has its instantaneous flow rate Q [L / min] detected by the first flow rate sensor 74. Furthermore, the control board 68B is capable of calculating the threshold Q3 [L / min] of the instantaneous flow rate Q of the hot water in the primary hot water supply path 30, as well as the cumulative flow rate Q4 [L] and its threshold Q5 (upper limit cumulative flow rate Q5) [L] based on the information transmitted from the first flow rate sensor 74. Note that the first flow rate sensor 74 is not limited to being provided downstream of the hot water side temperature sensor 38, and may be provided upstream of the hot water side temperature sensor 38 in the primary side hot water supply passage 30.

[0041] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 2, the faucet body 6 includes a second flow rate sensor 76 provided in a flow path downstream of a temperature sensor 44 provided downstream of the hot and cold water mixing portion 40. In addition, the hot and cold water mixed in the hot and cold water mixing portion 40 is adjusted to a predetermined flow rate by the flow rate adjustment portion 42, and after the temperature of the hot and cold water is measured by the temperature sensor 44, the instantaneous flow rate Q6 [L / min] of the mixed hot and cold water is detected by the second flow rate sensor 76. Furthermore, the control board 68B can calculate a threshold value Q7 [L / min] of the instantaneous flow rate Q6 [L / min] in the mixed hot and cold water, an integrated flow rate Q8 [L], and its threshold value Q9 [L] based on the information transmitted from the second flow rate sensor 76. Note that the second flow rate sensor 76 is not limited to being provided downstream of the temperature sensor 44, and may be provided upstream of the temperature sensor 44.

[0042] Next, as shown in FIG. 2, for the notification unit 72, when the instantaneous flow rate Q [L / min] of the hot water detected by the first flow rate sensor 74 is less than a certain threshold value Q3 [L / min] (for example, Q < Q3 = 3.0 [L / min]), an error can be notified. Here, in the faucet device 1 of the present embodiment, when the flow rate [L / min] of the hot and cold water passing through the water heater 4 becomes, for example, 3.0 [L / min] or more, the water heater 4 is ignited. However, for a certain threshold value Q3 [L / min] of the instantaneous flow rate Q of the hot water detected by the first flow rate sensor 74, it is preferably set smaller than the instantaneous flow rate Q3 (Q3 = 3.0 [L / min]) at the time of ignition of the hot and cold water passing through the water heater 4 when the water heater 4 is ignited (Q < Q3).

[0043] Next, with reference to FIG. 8, a description will be given of the calibration control that accompanies the drain stop control in the hot water preparation mode M of the bathroom faucet device 1 according to this embodiment. First, FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the calibration control associated with the drain stop control in the hot water preparation mode M of the bathroom faucet device 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, in step S40, the hot water preparation mode M (either the first hot water preparation mode M1 or the second hot water preparation mode M2) is started, and calibration control is started, and the process proceeds to step S41. Next, in step S41, in the case of the first hot water preparation mode M1 shown in Figure 5, as in steps S2 to S4 of Figure 5, the memory of the control board 68B of the control unit 68 stores the current opening position of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot and cold water mixing unit 40 set by the temperature control motor 46, and the current opening position of the flow control valve V2 (valve body 42a) of the flow rate adjustment unit 42 set by the flow control motor 48. Then, the temperature control motor 46 drives the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d), and this temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) is set to a predetermined position (origin position), i.e., a position where the initial set temperature T0 of hot water is set to a predetermined temperature (T0 = 42 degrees). Furthermore, the flow adjustment motor 48 is returned to its origin, and the opening of the flow adjustment valve V2 (valve body 42a) is set to the maximum so that the instantaneous flow rate [L / min] of hot and cold water is maximized. In other words, when executing the first hot water preparation mode M1, the control unit 68 controls the temperature control motor 46 and the flow control motor 48 so that hot water flows from the hot water preparation drainage channel 62 at a predetermined flow rate (instantaneous flow rate) Q0 (e.g., Q0 = 10 L / min) at a predetermined temperature T1 (e.g., T1 = 40 degrees), regardless of the hot water temperature set on the bathroom remote control 18.

[0044] On the other hand, in step S41 of Figure 8, in the case of the second hot water preparation mode M2 ​​shown in Figure 6, as in steps S23 to S25 of Figure 6, the memory of the control board 68B of the control unit 68 stores the current opening position of the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) of the hot and cold water mixing unit 40 set by the temperature control motor 46, and the current opening position of the flow control valve V2 (valve body 42a) of the flow rate adjustment unit 42 set by the flow control motor 48. In addition, the temperature control motor 46 drives the temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d), and this temperature control valve V1 (valve body 40d) is set to a predetermined position (origin position), i.e., a position where the initial set temperature T0 of hot water is set to a predetermined temperature (T0 = 42 degrees). Furthermore, the flow adjustment motor 48 is returned to its origin, and the opening of the flow adjustment valve V2 (valve body 42a) is set to the maximum so that the instantaneous flow rate [L / min] of hot and cold water is maximized.

[0045] Next, in step S42 of Figure 8, similar to step S5 of the first hot water preparation mode M1 of Figure 5, the drain solenoid valve 64 is switched from a closed state to an open state, the inlet 62a of the hot water preparation drainage channel 62 is opened, hot water W1 (see Figures 1 and 3) for hot water preparation is discharged from the hot water preparation drainage channel 62, and the drainage process is initiated. Alternatively, similar to step S26 of the second hot water preparation mode M2 ​​in Figure 6, only the overhead pillar solenoid valve 58 is switched from a closed state to an open state, the overhead pillar water outlet 16 is opened, and hot water W2 (see Figure 7) is discharged from only the single water outlet 16a to prepare hot water, and the drainage process is started.

[0046] Here, when calibration is performed between step S41 and step S42 when the drainage process is started, the control unit 68 controls the actuator (temperature control motor 46) so that the opening of the hot water inlet (hot water side opening) 40b in the hot water / cold water mixing unit 40 becomes a predetermined opening or more (for example, an opening of 50% or more), and drains water from the drainage channel 62 or the single water outlet 16a of the overhead pillar water outlet unit 16. In addition, the opening degree of the hot water inlet (hot water side opening) 40b of the hot and cold water mixing section 40 in the calibration mode M3 is set to be not more than the opening degree of the hot water inlet (hot water side opening) 40b in the warm water preparation modes M1 and M2. As a result, in the calibration mode M3, compared with the warm water preparation modes M1 and M2, the threshold value can be adjusted under the condition that cold water is less likely to escape, so that cold water can be surely drained in the actual warm water preparation modes M1 and M2.

[0047] Next, in step S43 of FIG. 8, the instantaneous flow rate Q6 [L / min] of the mixed hot and cold water is detected by the second flow rate sensor 76. Then, based on the information transmitted from the second flow rate sensor 76, the control board 68B of the control unit 68 starts calculating the threshold value Q7 [L / min], the integrated flow rate Q8 [L], and its threshold value Q9 [L] of the instantaneous flow rate Q6 [L / min] in the mixed hot and cold water.

[0048] Next, in step S44 of FIG. 8, the timer of the control board 68B of the control unit 68 detects the elapsed time t0 (integrated time t0) since the start of the warm water preparation mode M. Then, in step S45, when the instantaneous flow rate Q [L / min] of the hot water in the primary side hot water supply path 30 detected by the first flow rate sensor 74 is equal to or greater than a certain threshold value Q3 [L / min] (for example, Q≧Q3 = 3.0 [L / min]) (in the case of "YES" in step S44 of FIG. 8), in step S46, the hot water side temperature sensor 38 detects the temperature Th of the hot water in the primary side hot water supply path 30. On the other hand, in step S45, when the instantaneous flow rate Q [L / min] of the hot water in the primary side hot water supply path 30 detected by the first flow rate sensor 74 is less than a certain threshold value Q3 [L / min] (for example, Q < Q3 = 3.0 [L / min]) (in the case of "NO" in step S45 of FIG. 8), the process proceeds to step S51, error processing is executed, and the notification unit 72 notifies an error. Then, in step S52, when the control unit 68 abnormally stops the calibration mode M3, the calibration mode M3 ends.

[0049] And in step S46 of FIG. 8, when the temperature Th of the hot water in the primary hot water supply passage 30 detected by the hot water side temperature sensor 38 is less than a predetermined temperature Th0 (for example, Th < Th0 = 40 degrees), the process proceeds to step S47. And in step S47, on the control board 68B of the control unit 68, it is determined whether or not the integrated flow rate Q4 [L] of the hot water in the primary hot water supply passage 30 has reached its threshold value (upper limit integrated flow rate Q5) [L]. Next, in step S46, when the temperature Th detected by the hot water side temperature sensor 38 is greater than or equal to the predetermined temperature (for example, Th ≧ Th0 = 40 degrees), in step S48, the drainage process in the calibration mode M3 is stopped.

[0050] And in step S49 of FIG. 8, on the control board 68B of the control unit 68, the upper limit time tu is calculated from the elapsed time t0 (integrated time t0) from the start to the stop of the drainage process, and after the recording (storage) process is performed on the learning function of the calibration mode M3 in the memory, the calibration mode is completed in step S50. On the other hand, in step S47, on the control board 68B of the control unit 68, when the integrated flow rate Q4 [L] of the hot water in the primary hot water supply passage 30 has reached its threshold value (upper limit integrated flow rate Q5) [L] (in the case of "YES" in step S47 of FIG. 8), in step S51, after error processing is executed, the calibration mode M3 ends in step S52.

[0051] In addition, in the calibration mode M3 of the faucet device 1 for a bathroom according to the present embodiment shown in FIG. 8, an example in which it is determined in step S46 whether the temperature Th of the hot water in the primary hot water supply passage 30 detected by the hot water side temperature sensor 38 is greater than or equal to the predetermined temperature Th0 or less than the predetermined temperature Th0 (for example, Th0 = 40 degrees) has been described. However, as a variant, instead of the hot water side temperature sensor 38, a temperature sensor 44 provided downstream of the flow rate adjustment unit 42 may determine whether the temperature Tm of the mixed hot water after being adjusted to a predetermined flow rate by the flow rate adjustment unit 42 is greater than or equal to a predetermined temperature Tm0, or less than the predetermined temperature Tm0 (for example, Tm0 = 37 degrees).

[0052] Next, the operation of the bathroom faucet device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. First, according to the bathroom faucet device 1 of this embodiment, the hot water preparation mode M can be terminated based on the instantaneous flow rate Q [L / min] of hot water in the primary hot water supply line 30 detected by the first flow sensor 74 and its threshold value Q3 [L / min], the cumulative flow rate Q4 [L] of hot water in the primary hot water supply line 30 and its threshold value Q5 [L], the instantaneous flow rate Q6 [L / min] of mixed hot water downstream of the flow rate adjustment unit 42 detected by the second flow sensor 76 and its threshold value Q7 [L / min], and the cumulative flow rate Q8 [L] of mixed hot water and its threshold value Q9 [L]. In addition, the timer on the control board 68B of the control unit 68 can end the hot water preparation mode M based on the elapsed time t0 (accumulated time t0) since the start of the hot water preparation mode M and its threshold value (upper limit time tu). In this case, compared to when the user manually determines and ends the hot water preparation mode M at a threshold value, the control unit 68 adjusts the settings of the predetermined threshold values ​​Q3, Q5, Q7, Q9, and tu while draining water from the drainage channel 62, etc., thereby enabling calibration based on the drainage processing time and enabling the hot water preparation mode M to be ended at the optimal timing according to the installation site. This allows the hot water preparation mode M to be executed, which is optimal for the surrounding environment of bathroom B (seasonal usage environment, usage conditions at the installation location, etc.), thereby more effectively reducing wasted water.

[0053] Next, according to the faucet device 1 for a bathroom according to the present embodiment, when calibration is executed until the drainage treatment is started from step S41 to step S42, the control unit 68 controls the actuator (temperature control motor 46) so that the opening degree of the hot water inlet (hot water side opening) 40b in the hot and cold water mixing unit 40 becomes a predetermined opening degree or more (for example, 50% or more of the opening degree), and drains water from a single drain outlet 16a of the drain passage 62 or the overhead pillar water discharge unit 16. Therefore, before the control unit 68 executes the calibration mode M3, it is possible to suppress a state where the hot water side opening (hot water inlet 40b) of the hot and cold water mixing unit 40 is almost closed and hot water is not supplied from the hot water supply side, so that it is possible to suppress the calibration mode M3 from not functioning properly.

[0054] Further, according to the faucet device 1 for a bathroom according to the present embodiment, since the opening degree of the hot water inlet (hot water side opening) 40b of the hot and cold water mixing unit 40 in the calibration mode M3 is less than or equal to the opening degree of the hot water inlet (hot water side opening) 40b in the hot water preparation mode M, the calibration mode M3 has conditions where cold water is less likely to escape compared to the hot water preparation mode M, and the threshold values Q3, Q7 [L / min] of the instantaneous flow rates Q, Q6, the Q5, Q9 [L] of the integrated flow rates Q4, Q8, and the threshold value (upper limit time) tu of the integrated time t0 can be adjusted. Therefore, it is possible to surely drain cold water in the actual hot water preparation mode M.

[0055] Furthermore, according to the faucet device 1 for a bathroom according to the present embodiment, the faucet main body 6 includes a hot water side temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the hot water in the primary side hot water supply passage 30. According to these, in the calibration mode M3, when the hot water side temperature sensor 38 detects a predetermined temperature Th, if it is less than the predetermined temperature Th0 (for example, Th < Th0 = 40 degrees) (in the case of "NO" in step S46 of FIG. 8), in step S47, the upper limit time tu of the elapsed time (integrated time) t0 since the start of the hot water preparation mode M detected by the timer of the control board 68B of the control unit 68 can be stored as a predetermined threshold value (see step S49 of FIG. 8). Therefore, the user can easily adjust the predetermined threshold value (upper limit time tu) of the integration time t0, as compared with the case where the user adjusts the predetermined threshold value while measuring the temperature Tm of the hot and cold water mixture in the hot and cold water mixing unit 40.

[0056] Further, according to the faucet device 1 for a bathroom according to the present embodiment, after the control unit 68 opens the drain switching valve 64 in the calibration mode M3, when the instantaneous flow rate Q [L / min] detected by the first flow rate sensor 74 is less than a certain threshold value Q3 [L / min] (for example, Q < Q3 = 3.0 [L / min]) (in the case of "NO" in step S45 of FIG. 8), the calibration mode M3 can be abnormally stopped. Thereby, when the calibration mode M3 is executed, for example, when a problem occurs in the water heater 4 on the upstream side of the primary side hot water supply passage 30, the user can be informed early that the calibration mode M3 is unlikely to end even after a long time, which is convenient to use.

[0057] Next, referring to FIG. 9, the faucet device 100 for a bathroom according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart of calibration control associated with drain stop control in the hot water preparation mode M of the faucet device 100 for a bathroom according to the present embodiment. Here, in the calibration mode M3 of the faucet device 100 for a bathroom according to the present embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the same parts as those of the faucet device 1 for a bathroom according to the first embodiment of the present invention described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0058] First, as shown in FIG. 9, in the calibration mode M103 of the faucet device 100 for a bathroom of the present embodiment, each of steps S143, S147, and S149 is different from the content of each of steps S43, S47, and S49 in the calibration mode M3 of the faucet device 1 for a bathroom according to the first embodiment described above shown in FIG. 8. That is, in step S140 of FIG. 9, when the calibration mode M3 is started, in step S141, steps similar to step S41 shown in FIG. 8 are executed. After that, in step S142, steps similar to step S42 shown in FIG. 8 are executed, and hot and cold water W1 (see FIGS. 1 and 3) for hot water preparation is discharged from the drainage channel 62 for hot water preparation, and drainage treatment is started. Alternatively, hot and cold water W2 (see FIG. 7) for hot water preparation is discharged only from the single water discharge port 16a of the overhead pillar water discharge part 16, and drainage treatment is started.

[0059] Next, in step S143 of FIG. 9, the instantaneous flow rate Q [L / min] of the hot water passing through the hot water side temperature sensor 38 of the primary side hot water supply channel 30 is detected by the first flow rate sensor 74. Then, based on the information transmitted from the first flow rate sensor 74, the control board 68B starts the hot water flow rate integration, and calculates the threshold value Q3 [L / min] of the instantaneous flow rate Q [L / min] of the hot water in the primary side hot water supply channel 30, as well as the integrated flow rate Q4 [L] and its threshold value Q5 [L]. Also, in each of steps S144, S145, and S146 of FIG. 9, steps similar to steps S44, S45, and S146 of FIG. 8 are executed respectively.

[0060] Furthermore, in step S146 of FIG. 9, when the temperature Th of the hot water in the primary side hot water supply channel 30 detected by the hot water side temperature sensor 38 is less than the predetermined temperature Th0 (for example, Th < Th0 = 40 degrees) (in the case of "NO" in step S146 of FIG. 9), it proceeds to step S147. On the other hand, in step S146 of FIG. 10, when the temperature Th detected by the hot water side temperature sensor 38 is greater than or equal to the predetermined temperature Th0 (for example, Th ≧ Th0 = 40 degrees) (in the case of "YES" in step S146 of FIG. 9), in step S148, the drainage treatment in the hot water preparation mode M is stopped. Then, in step S149, the control board 68B of the control unit 68 calculates the upper limit flow rate Q5[L] from the accumulated flow rate Q4[L] of the primary hot water supply line 30 from the start to the stop of the drainage process, and after a recording (storage) process is performed on the learning function of the hot water preparation mode M in the memory, the calibration mode M103 is completed in step S150. Also, in step S147, if the elapsed time t0 since the start of the hot water preparation mode M detected by the timer has exceeded a predetermined upper limit time (threshold) tu (for example, tu = 30 seconds to 60 seconds) (if "YES" in step S147 of Figure 9), error processing is performed in step S151, similar to step S51 of Figure 8, and then the calibration mode M103 ends in step S152.

[0061] Next, the operation of the bathroom faucet device 100 according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. First, according to the bathroom faucet device 100 of this embodiment, compared to when the user manually determines and ends the hot water preparation mode M at a threshold value, the control unit 68 adjusts the settings of the predetermined threshold values ​​Q3, Q5, Q7, Q9, and tu while draining water from the drainage channel 62, etc., so that calibration can be performed based on the cumulative hot water flow rate Q4 [L] of the primary hot water supply channel 30, and the hot water preparation mode M can be ended at the optimal timing depending on the installation site.

[0062] In addition, according to the bathroom faucet device 100 of this embodiment, the faucet body 6 further includes a hot water side temperature sensor 38 that detects the temperature Th of the hot water in the primary hot water supply path 30, and a temperature sensor 44 that detects the temperature Tm of the hot water mixed in the hot water mixing section 40. Thus, in the calibration mode M3, when the hot water side temperature sensor 38 detects a predetermined temperature Th of the hot water, if it is less than the predetermined temperature Th0 (for example, Th < Th0 = 40 degrees) (in the case of "NO" in step S46 of FIG. 8), in step S147, the control board 68B of the control unit 68 can store the threshold value (upper limit integrated flow rate Q5) [L] of the integrated flow rate Q4 [L] of the hot water in the primary side hot water supply path 30 (see step S149 of FIG. 9). Therefore, compared with the case where the user adjusts the predetermined threshold while measuring the temperature Tm of the hot water mixed in the hot water mixing unit 40, the predetermined threshold value (upper limit integrated flow rate Q5) [L] of the integrated flow rate Q4 [L] and the predetermined threshold value (upper limit time tu) of the integration time t0 can be easily adjusted.

[0063] In addition, in the faucet devices 1 and 1100 for bathrooms according to the first and second embodiments of the present invention described above, the hot water side temperature sensor 38 detects the temperature of the hot water in the primary side hot water supply path 20, and the temperature sensor 44 detects the temperature of the hot water on the downstream side of the hot water mixing unit 40. However, the present invention is not limited to such a form, and other forms are also applicable. For example, instead of these temperature sensors 38 and 44, the user may use their hand or a thermometer to measure the temperature of the hot water or the hot water, and control the calibration modes M3 and 103 and appropriately end them.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0064] 1 Faucet device for bathroom according to the first embodiment of the present invention 2 Water supply source 4 Water heater (hot water supply source) 6 Faucet body 8 Water discharge part 10 Hand shower water discharge part (water discharge part) 10a Shower head 12 Kitchen faucet water discharge part (water discharge part) 14 Overhead shower water discharge part (water discharge part, second water discharge part) 14a Water spray holes 16 Overhead pillar water discharge part (water discharge part, first water discharge part) 16a Water discharge port 18 Bathroom remote control (operation unit, first operation unit) 18a C button for hot and cold settings 18b H button for high temperature setting 18c Faucet water control button 18d Hand shower water control button 18e Overhead shower water control button 18th floor Overhead pillar water discharge control button 18g display screen 20 Remote control outside the bathroom (operation unit, second operation unit) 22 Primary side water supply channel 24 Water side stop valve 26 Water side check valve 28 Water side drain valve 30 Primary hot water supply path (hot water supply path) 32 Hot water stop valve 34 Hot water side check valve 36 Hot water drain valve 38 Hot water side temperature sensor 40 Hot water mixing section 40a Water inlet 40b Hot water inlet (hot water side opening) 40c Mixed hot water outlet 40d Temperature control valve, valve body 42 Flow rate adjustment section 42a Flow regulation valve, valve body 44 Temperature Sensor 46 Temperature control motor (actuator) 48 Flow regulation motor (actuator) 50 Switching Unit 52 Hand shower solenoid valve 54 Solenoid valve for faucet 56 Solenoid valve for overhead shower 58 Solenoid valve for overhead pillar 60 Water discharge / stop switching section 60a flow path 60b Flow path 60c flow path 60d flow path 62 Drainage channel for preparing hot water (drainage channel) 62a Inlet to drain for hot water preparation 62b Outlet of drainage channel for hot water preparation (downstream end of drainage channel) 64 Drain solenoid valve (drain switching valve) 66 Connecting Channel 68 Control Unit 68A Communication Unit 68B control board 70 Hot water preparation button 72 Information Department 74 First flow sensor (flow sensor) 76 Second flow sensor (flow sensor) 100 Bathroom faucet device according to the second embodiment of the present invention B Bathroom C1 Counter C2 Cover F Floor H1 Height from floor to drain outlet M Hot water preparation mode M1 First hot water preparation mode M2 Second hot water preparation mode M3 Calibration Mode M103 Calibration Mode O outdoor OH overhead shower head Q Instantaneous flow rate detected by the first flow sensor Q0 Instantaneous flow rate of hot water discharged from the drainage channel for hot water preparation Q1: Water flow rate discharged from a single outlet on the overhead pillar outlet (first flow rate) Q2 Water flow rate discharged from multiple nozzles in the overhead shower outlet (second flow rate) Q3 The threshold value of the instantaneous flow rate of hot water in the primary hot water supply line, the instantaneous flow rate of hot water passing through the water heater when the water heater is ignited Q4 Accumulated flow rate of hot water in the primary hot water supply line Q5 Threshold and upper limit of the cumulative flow rate of hot water in the primary hot water supply line Q6 Instantaneous flow rate of mixed hot and cold water Q7 Instantaneous flow rate threshold for mixed hot and cold water Q8 Accumulated flow rate of mixed hot and cold water Q9 Threshold value of cumulative flow rate of mixed hot and cold water Qu upper limit flow rate S Hot Water System T0 Initial temperature of hot and cold water (predetermined temperature) T1 Predetermined temperature of hot water T2 The hot and cold water temperature set by the bathroom remote control T3 Temperature of hot water discharged from the drain Tm: Temperature of the mixed water measured by the temperature sensor Tm0 Temperature of the specified mixed water Th: The temperature of the hot water measured by the hot water side temperature sensor Th0: Predetermined hot water temperature t0 The elapsed time and cumulative time since the hot water preparation mode started as detected by the timer t1 specified time t2 specified time tu Threshold of accumulated time, upper limit time V1 temperature control valve V2 Flow Adjustment Valve W wall W1 Hot water for hot water preparation discharged from the hot water preparation drainage channel W2 Hot water for preparing hot water discharged from the overhead pillar outlet W3 Hot water for preparing hot water discharged from the overhead shower outlet

Claims

1. A bathroom faucet device, a faucet body provided in the bathroom and supplied with hot water and cold water from a hot water supply source and a cold water supply source, respectively; A water discharge section is provided downstream of the faucet body and discharges hot water, cold water, or mixed hot water supplied from the faucet body; an operation unit operated by a user, The faucet body includes a hot and cold water mixing section that mixes hot and cold water, an actuator that operates the hot and cold water mixing section, a water discharge / stop switching section that switches the water discharge section between a water discharge state and a water stop state, a drainage channel that is located downstream of the hot and cold water mixing section and communicates with the outside of the faucet body to drain water into the bathroom, a drainage switching valve that switches the opening and closing of the drainage channel, and a control section that has a hot water preparation mode that opens and closes the drainage switching valve in response to commands from the operating section to control the drainage of hot and cold water from the drainage channel, The faucet body is equipped with a timer or a flow sensor that detects the flow rate of hot water or mixed hot water flowing through the faucet body, The control unit opens the drain switching valve in the hot water preparation mode, and then closes the drain switching valve when the elapsed time since the start of the hot water preparation mode detected by the timer or the flow rate detected by the flow sensor becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value, The control unit is capable of executing a calibration mode in which the setting of the predetermined threshold is adjusted while draining water from the drainage channel.

2. 2. The bathroom faucet device according to claim 1, wherein in the calibration mode, the control unit controls the actuator so that the opening of the hot water side opening in the hot and cold water mixing unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined opening, thereby draining water from the drainage channel.

3. 3. The bathroom faucet device according to claim 2, wherein the opening degree of the hot water side opening of the hot and cold water mixing section in the calibration mode is equal to or smaller than the opening degree of the hot water side opening in the hot water preparation mode.

4. The faucet body further includes a hot water supply passage extending downstream from the water heater and connected to the hot water / cold water mixing section, and a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the hot water in the hot water supply passage or the hot water / cold water mixed in the hot water / cold water mixing section, A bathroom faucet device as described in claim 1, wherein in the calibration mode, when the temperature sensor detects a predetermined temperature of hot water or cold water, the elapsed time since the start of the hot water preparation mode detected by the timer or the flow rate detected by the flow sensor is stored as the predetermined threshold value.

5. The faucet body further includes a hot water supply passage extending downstream from the water heater and connected to the hot water / cold water mixing section, and the flow rate sensor includes a first flow rate sensor provided in the hot water supply passage for detecting the instantaneous flow rate of hot water, and a second flow rate sensor provided in a flow path downstream of the hot water / cold water mixing section, The bathroom faucet device of claim 1, wherein the control unit abnormally stops the calibration mode if, after opening the drain switching valve in the calibration mode, the instantaneous flow rate detected by the first flow sensor is less than a certain value.

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