Faucet device, water purification device, and function expansion device for faucet device

Abstract

To provide a faucet device and a water purifying device effective for improving usability.SOLUTION: The faucet device 1 includes the manual valve 13 that changes an opening degree of the water discharge flow path R01 in conjunction with the manual lever handle 12, the solenoid valve 120 that is driven by electric power to open and close the water discharge flow path R01, the start timing setting unit 213 that sets a time point at which the manual valve 13 is opened as the start timing when the manual valve 13 is opened after the solenoid valve 120 is opened, and sets a time point at which the solenoid valve 120 is opened as the start timing when the solenoid valve 120 is opened after the manual valve 13 is opened, and the control unit 211 that causes the solenoid valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01 based on an elapsed time from the start timing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a water faucet device, a water purification device, and a function expansion device for a water faucet device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a faucet device that includes a single-lever mixing valve that adjusts the flow rate and temperature of water by operating a single lever, an outlet path that directs water from the mixing valve to the water outlet, an electromagnetic valve that opens and closes the outlet path, and a controller that causes the electromagnetic valve to open and close the outlet path based on the results of hand detection by a sensor. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-37773 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In a water faucet device equipped with a solenoid valve, the solenoid valve can close the water discharge flow path when a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the solenoid valve opened, thereby automatically stopping water discharge at the desired water discharge time. By setting the water discharge time to correspond to the desired water discharge volume, it is also possible to automatically stop water discharge at the desired water discharge volume.

[0005] However, in a water faucet device equipped with both a manual valve and a solenoid valve, water does not necessarily begin to flow when the solenoid valve opens. For example, the manual valve may open and begin to flow after the solenoid valve opens. In such cases, even if the solenoid valve opens for a predetermined period of time, the desired amount of water will not be obtained, and improvements in usability are desirable.

[0006] The present disclosure provides a water faucet device and a water purification device that are effective in improving usability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A faucet device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a manual valve that changes the opening degree of a water discharge flow path in conjunction with a manual lever handle; an electromagnetic valve that is driven by electricity to open and close the water discharge flow path; a start timing setting unit that sets the start timing to the point at which the manual valve opens if the manual valve opens after the electromagnetic valve opens, and sets the start timing to the point at which the electromagnetic valve opens if the electromagnetic valve opens after the manual valve opens; and a control unit that causes the electromagnetic valve to close the water discharge flow path based on the elapsed time from the start timing.

[0008] A water purification device according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes a manual valve that changes the opening degree of a water discharge flow path in conjunction with a manual lever handle, an electromagnetic valve that is driven by electricity to open and close the water discharge flow path, a water purification cartridge placed in the water discharge flow path, a start timing setting unit that sets the start timing to the point at which the manual valve opens if the manual valve opens after the electromagnetic valve opens, and sets the start timing to the point at which the electromagnetic valve opens if the electromagnetic valve opens after the manual valve opens, and a control unit that causes the electromagnetic valve to close the water discharge flow path based on the elapsed time from the start timing.

[0009] A function expansion device according to yet another aspect of the present disclosure is a device that expands the function of a faucet device having a manual valve that changes the opening degree of a water discharge flow path in conjunction with a manual lever handle, and is equipped with: a first connection port connected to a first flow path among the water discharge flow paths that is connected to a water supply; a second connection port connected to a second flow path among the water discharge flow paths that is connected to the water discharge port; a relay flow path that conducts mixed water from the first connection port to the second connection port; an electromagnetic valve that opens and closes the relay flow path powered by electricity; a start timing setting unit that sets the start timing to the point at which the manual valve opens if the manual valve opens after the electromagnetic valve opens, and sets the start timing to the point at which the electromagnetic valve opens if the electromagnetic valve opens after the manual valve opens; and a control unit that causes the electromagnetic valve to close the water discharge flow path based on the elapsed time from the start timing. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present disclosure, a water faucet device and a water purification device that are effective in improving usability can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a water faucet device. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of an electromagnetic valve. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a relay unit and a controller. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the relay unit and the controller. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a controller. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control procedure of an electromagnetic valve based on a user's operation. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure for controlling an electromagnetic valve based on the elapsed time after the start of water flow. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the description, the same elements or elements having the same functions are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0013] [Water faucet device] The faucet device 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a device that switches between a water discharge state and a water stop state in response to a non-contact hand gesture, for example, at a sink in a kitchen or bathroom sink, and adjusts the opening of a water discharge channel in response to a lever handle grip. The faucet device 1 includes at least a manual valve 13, an electromagnetic valve 120, an operation sensor 21, and a controller 200. The manual valve 13 changes the opening of the water discharge channel R01 in conjunction with the manual lever handle. The electromagnetic valve 120 is powered by electricity to open and close the water discharge channel R01. The operation sensor 21 detects a non-contact user gesture (e.g., a hand gesture). The controller 200 controls the electromagnetic valve 120 to open and close the water discharge channel R01 based on the detection result from the operation sensor 21. The faucet device 1 may be a water purification device 1A that further includes a water purification cartridge 40 disposed in the water discharge channel.

[0014] For example, the faucet device 1 includes a faucet unit 2 and a controller 200. The faucet unit 2 has a base unit 10, a withdrawal hose 18, a spout head 30, and an operation sensor 21. The base unit 10 is fixed to the periphery of the sink. The base unit 10 has a base 11, a low-temperature water receiving pipe 14, a high-temperature water receiving pipe 15, a mixed water delivery pipe 16, a lever handle 12, a manual valve 13, and a head holder 17. The base 11 is fixed above the periphery of the sink.

[0015] The cold water receiving pipe 14 is drawn out from the base 11 to under the sink and receives cold water (cold water). The cold water is supplied, for example, from a water pipe without being heated. For example, a cold water hose 92 is connected to the cold water receiving pipe 14 under the sink. For example, the cold water receiving pipe 14 is removably connected to the cold water hose 92 by a joint such as a push-fit or screw joint. The cold water hose 92 is connected to the water pipe via a cold water main valve 91, and when the cold water main valve 91 is open, it guides cold water from the water pipe to the cold water receiving pipe 14. The cold water receiving pipe 14 guides the cold water guided by the cold water hose 92 to the mixed water delivery pipe 16.

[0016] The high-temperature water receiving pipe 15 extends from the base 11 to under the sink and receives high-temperature water (hot water) that is hotter than the low-temperature water. For example, a high-temperature water hose 94 is connected to the high-temperature water receiving pipe 15 under the sink. For example, the high-temperature water receiving pipe 15 is removably connected to the high-temperature water hose 94 by a push-fit or screw-type coupling. The high-temperature water hose 94 is connected to a water heater or the like via a high-temperature water main valve 93, and when the high-temperature water main valve 93 is open, it guides high-temperature water from the water heater to the high-temperature water receiving pipe 15. The high-temperature water receiving pipe 15 guides the high-temperature water guided by the high-temperature water main valve 93 to the mixed water delivery pipe 16.

[0017] The mixed water delivery pipe 16 is drawn out from the base 11 to below the sink and delivers a mixture of low-temperature water guided by the low-temperature water receiving pipe 14 and high-temperature water guided by the high-temperature water receiving pipe 15. The flow path from the low-temperature water receiving pipe 14 and the high-temperature water receiving pipe 15 to the mixed water delivery pipe 16 constitutes a part of the discharge flow path R01.

[0018] The lever handle 12 is gripped by the user's hand and rotates around a horizontal rotation axis Ax1 and tilts around a tilt axis Ax2 perpendicular to the rotation axis Ax1 in accordance with the movement of the hand. The manual valve 13 changes the opening degree of the water discharge flow path R01 in conjunction with the manual lever handle 12. For example, the manual valve 13 is a mixer faucet located between the low-temperature water receiving pipe 14 and the high-temperature water receiving pipe 15 and the mixed water delivery pipe 16, and changes the opening degree of the water discharge flow path R01 between the low-temperature water receiving pipe 14 and the high-temperature water receiving pipe 15 and the mixed water delivery pipe 16.

[0019] For example, the manual valve 13 changes the opening of the water discharge flow path R01 in conjunction with the tilt of the lever handle 12 about the tilt axis Ax2. Changing the opening includes setting the opening to zero. When the manual valve 13 sets the opening of the water discharge flow path R01 to zero, the water discharge state switches to a water discharge stop state. Furthermore, the manual valve 13 changes the mixing ratio of low-temperature water from the low-temperature water receiving pipe 14 and high-temperature water from the high-temperature water receiving pipe 15 in conjunction with the rotation of the lever handle 12 about the rotation axis Ax1.

[0020] Head holder 17 protrudes upward from base 11 and supports water spouting head 30. Extraction hose 18 guides mixed water from mixed water delivery pipe 16 to water spouting head 30. For example, extraction hose 18 is connected to mixed water delivery pipe 16 under the sink, and is connected from under the sink to water spouting head 30 via base 11 and head holder 17. Water spouting head 30 has a water outlet 31, and spouts mixed water guided by extraction hose 18 from water outlet 31.

[0021] The water spouting head 30 may be removable from the head holder 17. When the water spouting head 30 is separated from the head holder 17, the withdrawal hose 18 connected to the water spouting head 30 is pulled out from the head holder 17. In response, the withdrawal hose 18 is pulled into the base 11 under the sink.

[0022] With the above configuration, the faucet unit 2 includes a water discharge flow path R01 that conducts water from the hot water hose 94 to the water discharge port 31. The water discharge flow path R01 includes a low-temperature water flow path R11, a high-temperature water flow path R12, and a mixed water flow path R20. The low-temperature water flow path R11 includes at least the low-temperature water receiving pipe 14, and conducts low-temperature water from the low-temperature water hose 92 to the manual valve 13. The high-temperature water flow path R12 includes at least the high-temperature water receiving pipe 15, and conducts high-temperature water from the high-temperature water hose 94 to the manual valve 13. The mixed water flow path R20 includes at least the mixed water delivery pipe 16, the withdrawal hose 18, and the water discharge head 30, and conducts mixed water of the low-temperature water conducted by the low-temperature water flow path R11 and the high-temperature water conducted by the high-temperature water flow path R12 from the manual valve 13 to the water discharge port 31.

[0023] As an example of disposing the water purification cartridge 40 in the water discharge flow path R01, the water purification device 1A may be a faucet-integrated water purification device in which the water purification cartridge 40 is disposed in the water-discharge head 30. The water-discharge head 30 may further include a switching device 32. In response to user operation, the switching device 32 switches between a purified water mode in which water is discharged through the water purification cartridge 40 and a raw water mode in which water is discharged without passing through the water purification cartridge 40 within the water-discharge head 30. For example, the switching device 32 includes a switching dial 33 provided to surround the water discharge port 31. The switching dial 33 rotates around the central axis Ax3 of the water discharge port 31 in response to user operation. The switching device 32 switches between the purified water mode and the raw water mode in conjunction with the rotation of the switching dial 33.

[0024] When switching between purified water mode and raw water mode is performed within the water discharge head 30, at least the flow path from the low-temperature water receiving pipe 14 and the high-temperature water receiving pipe 15 to the withdrawal hose 18 in the water discharge flow path R01 becomes a shared flow path R30 that is shared by both the purified water mode and the raw water mode. For example, both the water discharged in the purified water mode and the water discharged in the raw water mode flow into the water discharge head 30 via the same shared flow path R30.

[0025] The operation sensor 21 is provided, for example, on the head holder 17, and detects a contactless operation by the user (for example, an operation of holding a hand over the head). Examples of the operation sensor 21 include an ultrasonic or infrared proximity sensor.

[0026] The electromagnetic valve 120 is provided in the water discharge flow path R01 and is driven by electricity to open and close the water discharge flow path R01. For example, the electromagnetic valve 120 is provided in the mixed water flow path R20. The electromagnetic valve 120 provided in the mixed water flow path R20 makes it possible to easily open and close the water discharge flow path R01 from a single location. Instead of the mixed water flow path R20, the electromagnetic valve 120 may be provided in each of the low-temperature water flow path R11 and the high-temperature water flow path R12.

[0027] The electromagnetic valve 120 may be configured to open the water discharge flow path R01 when power is supplied and close the water discharge flow path R01 when power is not supplied. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the relay unit 100 has a valve body 123, a valve-closing spring 121, and a solenoid 122. The valve body 123 is movable between a closed position that closes the water discharge flow path R01 and an open position that opens the water discharge flow path R01. The valve-closing spring 121 holds the valve body 123 in the closed position by its elastic repulsive force. When power is supplied, the solenoid 122 displaces the valve body 123 to the open position against the elastic repulsive force of the valve-closing spring 121. When power supply is stopped, the solenoid 122 stops generating a force that resists the elastic repulsive force of the valve-closing spring 121. Because the solenoid 122 stops generating force, the valve-closing spring 121 returns the valve body 123 to the closed position.

[0028] 3, the mixed water flow path R20 may include a first flow path R21, a second flow path R22, and an intermediary unit 100. The first flow path R21 includes a mixed water delivery pipe 16 and is connected to the low-temperature water flow path R11 and the high-temperature water flow path R12 via a manual valve 13. The second flow path R22 includes a withdrawal hose 18 and a water discharge head 30 and is connected to the water discharge port 31. The intermediary unit 100 relays the first flow path R21 and the second flow path R22. Relaying the first flow path R21 and the second flow path R22 includes, for example, being connected to the first flow path R21 and the second flow path R22 and guiding the mixed water from the first flow path R21 to the second flow path R22.

[0029] For example, the relay unit 100 has a unit case 110, a first connection port 111, a second connection port 112, and a relay flow path 113. The first connection port 111 protrudes from the unit case 110 and is detachably connected to the first flow path R21. For example, the first connection port 111 is detachably connected to the mixed water delivery pipe 16 by a joint of a push-fit type or a screw type or the like. The second connection port 112 protrudes from the unit case 110 and is detachably connected to the second flow path R22. For example, the second connection port 112 is detachably connected to the withdrawal hose 18 by a joint of a push-fit type or a screw type or the like. The relay flow path 113 is formed within the unit case 110 and guides the mixed water from the first connection port 111 to the second connection port 112. An electromagnetic valve 120 may be provided in the relay unit 100 to open and close the relay flow path 113.

[0030] The controller 200 controls the electromagnetic valve 120 in response to user operation. In a water faucet device 1 in which the electromagnetic valve 120 can be controlled by the controller 200, water discharge can be automatically stopped at the water discharge time desired by the user by having the electromagnetic valve 120 close the water discharge flow path when a predetermined length of time has elapsed since the electromagnetic valve 120 opened. By setting the water discharge time to correspond to the water discharge volume desired by the user, water discharge can also be automatically stopped at the water discharge volume desired by the user.

[0031] However, in a water faucet device 1 equipped with a dual valve, a manual valve 13 and a solenoid valve 120, water does not necessarily begin to flow when the solenoid valve 120 opens. For example, there are cases where the manual valve 13 opens and water begins to flow after the solenoid valve 120 opens. In such cases, even if a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the solenoid valve 120 opened, the amount of water flow desired by the user cannot be obtained, and therefore, improvements in usability are desired.

[0032] Therefore, the controller 200 is configured to further perform the following: if the manual valve 13 opens after the electromagnetic valve 120 opens, the time when the manual valve 13 opens is set as the start timing; if the electromagnetic valve 120 opens after the manual valve 13 opens, the time when the electromagnetic valve 120 opens is set as the start timing; and to cause the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path based on the elapsed time from the start timing.

[0033] In both cases where the manual valve 13 is opened after the electromagnetic valve 120 is opened, and where the electromagnetic valve 120 is opened after the manual valve 13 is opened, water discharge can be automatically stopped at the water discharge time (water discharge amount) desired by the user. This is therefore effective in improving usability.

[0034] It is difficult to directly detect the water discharge volume (volume of water already discharged) in the water faucet device 1. To control the water discharge volume, it is possible to calculate the water discharge volume by integrating the flow velocity or flow rate during water discharge and control the electromagnetic valve 120 based on the calculation result. With this method, there is a possibility that the water discharge volume will vary greatly due to integration error. In response to this, by controlling the electromagnetic valve 120 based on the elapsed time from the start timing, it is possible to close the electromagnetic valve 120 at a water discharge volume that better matches the needs.

[0035] For example, the controller 200 has, as functional components (hereinafter referred to as "functional blocks"), a control unit 211 and a start timing setting unit 213. The control unit 211 causes the electromagnetic valve 120 to open or close the water discharge flow path R01 based on the detection result from the operation sensor 21. For example, when the operation sensor 21 detects the approach of a hand while the electromagnetic valve 120 has opened the water discharge flow path R01, the control unit 211 causes the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01. When the operation sensor 21 detects the approach of a hand while the electromagnetic valve 120 has closed the water discharge flow path R01, the control unit 211 causes the electromagnetic valve 120 to open the water discharge flow path R01.

[0036] If the manual valve 13 opens after the electromagnetic valve 120 opens, the start timing setting unit 213 sets the time when the manual valve 13 opens as the start timing, and if the electromagnetic valve 120 opens after the manual valve 13 opens, the start timing setting unit 213 sets the time when the electromagnetic valve 120 opens as the start timing. The faucet device 1 may further include a lever sensor 51. The lever sensor 51 detects the tilt angle of the lever handle 12 about the tilt axis Ax2, etc., as information indicating whether the manual valve 13 is open or not.

[0037] The start timing setting unit 213 acquires first information indicating the time when the manual valve 13 opens based on the lever sensor 51, acquires second information indicating the time when the electromagnetic valve 120 opens, and determines the start timing based on the first information and the second information. For example, if the time indicated by the first information is later than the time indicated by the second information, the start timing setting unit 213 sets the time indicated by the first information as the start timing. Furthermore, if the time indicated by the second information is later than the time indicated by the first information, the start timing setting unit 213 sets the time indicated by the second information as the start timing.

[0038] The control unit 211 causes the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01 based on the time elapsed since the start timing. For example, the control unit 211 causes the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01 when the time elapsed since the start timing reaches a predetermined water discharge time.

[0039] The controller 200 may be configured to change the water discharge time based on user operation. The water faucet device 1 may further include a time setting dial 52 (see FIG. 1). The time setting dial 52 is rotated by user operation. The controller 200 also includes a water discharge time setting unit 214. The water discharge time setting unit 214 sets the water discharge time based on the user's operation. For example, the water discharge time setting unit 214 sets the water discharge time based on the rotation angle of the time setting dial 52. When the elapsed time from the start timing reaches the water discharge time set by the water discharge time setting unit 214, the control unit 211 causes the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01. This allows for flexible adaptation to changes in the desired water discharge time depending on the purpose of use, improving usability.

[0040] The time setting dial 52 may have a scale indicating the water discharge time so that the water discharge time set by rotating the time setting dial 52 can be visually confirmed. The water discharge time setting unit 214 may set the water discharge time to infinity when the time setting dial 52 is rotated to the maximum angle in the direction that increases the water discharge time. In this case, the control unit 211 does not cause the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01 based on the elapsed time from the start timing.

[0041] The controller 200 may be configured to set the start timing based on the water flow in the water discharge flow path R01. For example, the water faucet device 1 may further include a water flow sensor 130, as shown in FIG. 4. The water flow sensor 130 detects the water flow in the water discharge flow path R01. Detecting the water flow includes at least detecting whether or not there is a water flow in the water discharge flow path R01. The start timing setting unit 213 determines that the start timing is the timing when the state changes from one in which the water flow sensor 130 does not detect a water flow to one in which the water flow sensor 130 detects a water flow.

[0042] The start timing can be easily set. In addition, since the water discharge volume is controlled based on the elapsed time from the start timing, there is no need to detect the water discharge volume with a water flow sensor. This simplifies the water flow sensor.

[0043] The control unit 211 may cause the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01 when the electromagnetic valve 120 has opened the water discharge flow path R01 and the water flow sensor 130 has not detected a water flow for a period of time exceeding a predetermined length. This automatically resolves the unintentional state where only the electromagnetic valve 120 is open. This prevents erroneous operations such as opening the manual valve 13 while it is mistakenly recognized that the electromagnetic valve 120 is closed, thereby unintentionally starting water discharge.

[0044] When an electromagnetic valve 120 is used that is configured to open the water discharge flow path R01 when power is supplied and close the water discharge flow path R01 when power is not supplied, it is also possible to prevent power waste caused by the electromagnetic valve 120 remaining unintentionally open.

[0045] The water flow sensor 130 may be provided in the mixed water flow path R20. The start timing can be set with high reliability in any of the states where only low-temperature water is discharged, where only high-temperature water is discharged, and where mixed water is discharged. Note that instead of providing the water flow sensor 130 in the mixed water flow path R20, water flow sensors 130 may be provided in both the low-temperature water flow path R11 and the high-temperature water flow path R12, and whether or not there is a water flow in the water discharge flow path R01 may be detected based on the detection results of the water flow sensors 130 in both flow paths.

[0046] The water flow sensor 130 may be positioned to detect the water flow in a shared flow path shared between the purified water mode and the raw water mode. For example, the mixed water flow path R20 is shared between the purified water mode and the raw water mode and is therefore part of the shared flow path. In both the purified water mode and the raw water mode, the water flow sensor 130 can be shared to automatically stop water discharge at the water discharge rate desired by the user.

[0047] The control unit 211 may further control the electromagnetic valve 120 based on whether the switching device 32 is in the purified water mode or the raw water mode. For example, the control unit 211 may cause the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01 based on the time elapsed from the start timing (hereinafter referred to as "automatic stop of water discharge") when the switching device 32 is in the purified water mode, but not when the switching device 32 is in the raw water mode. The control unit 211 may be configured to change, according to a user setting, whether or not to automatically stop water discharge when the switching device 32 is in the raw water mode.

[0048] The water faucet device 1 may further include a mode sensor 53. The mode sensor 53 detects whether the switching device 32 is in the purified water mode or the raw water mode. For example, the mode sensor 53 detects whether the switching dial 33 is in the purified water mode position or the raw water mode position. The control unit 211 obtains information indicating whether the switching device 32 is in the purified water mode or the raw water mode from the mode sensor 53, and controls the solenoid valve 120 based on the obtained information.

[0049] The water flow sensor 130 may be a flow sensor that outputs an electrical signal representing the water flow rate (e.g., flow rate per unit time) in the water discharge flow path R01 as information indicating whether or not there is a water flow. Examples of flow sensors include turbine-type, thermal-type, ultrasonic-type, electromagnetic-type, Coriolis-type, Karman vortex-type, float-type, and differential pressure-type flow sensors. If the water flow sensor 130 is a turbine-type flow sensor, the water flow sensor 130 may generate an electrical signal using power generated by the turbine. The water flow sensor 130, which is a flow rate sensor, may be provided upstream of the electromagnetic valve 120 in the mixed water flow path R20, or may be provided downstream of the electromagnetic valve 120.

[0050] When the water flow sensor 130 detects the flow rate, the water discharge time setting unit 214 may be configured to set the discharge volume by user operation and set the discharge time based on the set discharge volume and the detection result by the water flow sensor 130. In this case, the time setting dial 52 may have a scale indicating the water discharge volume instead of a scale indicating the water discharge time.

[0051] The water flow sensor 130 may be a pressure sensor that outputs an electrical signal indicating the internal pressure of the water discharge flow path R01 as information indicating whether or not there is a water flow. The water flow sensor 130, which is a pressure sensor, may be provided upstream of the manual valve 13 in the mixed water flow path R20, or may be provided downstream of the manual valve 13. A pressure sensor provided upstream of the manual valve 13 can detect whether or not there is a water flow based on the fact that the pressure when there is a water flow is lower than the pressure when there is no water flow. A pressure sensor provided downstream of the manual valve 13 can detect whether or not there is a water flow based on the fact that the pressure when there is a water flow is higher than the pressure when there is no water flow.

[0052] The water flow sensor 130 may be a liquid sensor that outputs an electrical signal indicating whether or not there is liquid in the water discharge flow path R01, as information indicating whether or not there is a water flow. For example, the water flow sensor 130 may be a current sensor that outputs an electrical signal indicating the electrical resistance between a pair of electrodes that can come into contact with water in the water discharge flow path R01. The water flow sensor 130 may be a capacitance sensor that outputs an electrical signal indicating the capacitance between it and an object present in the water discharge flow path R01. Or it may be a reed switch-type sensor that outputs an electrical signal indicating the on / off state of a reed switch that is linked to the movement of a magnet caused by the water flow.

[0053] The water flow sensor 130, which is a liquid sensor, may be provided in the mixed water flow path R20 downstream of the manual valve 13 and the electromagnetic valve 120. The water flow sensor 130 provided downstream of the manual valve 13 and the electromagnetic valve 120 can detect whether or not there is a water flow based on whether or not there is a liquid in the mixed water flow path R20.

[0054] The water flow sensor 130 may be provided in the relay unit 100 together with the electromagnetic valve 120 so as to detect the water flow in the relay flow path 113 of the relay unit 100 described above. By combining the electromagnetic valve 120 and the water flow sensor 130 in the relay unit, the faucet device 1 can be easily mounted in a kitchen, a washbasin, or the like.

[0055] The relay unit 100 having the electromagnetic valve 120 and the water flow sensor 130, and the controller 200 can also be used as a function expansion device 3 for an existing water faucet device. For example, the above-mentioned water faucet device 1 can be configured by incorporating the function expansion device 3 having the relay unit 100 and the controller 200 into an existing water faucet device that does not have a configuration for opening and closing the electromagnetic valve 120 based on the detection results of the water flow sensor 130.

[0056] The controller 200 may further include a notification unit 212 as a functional block. The notification unit 212 notifies the user that no water flow is detected by the water flow sensor 130 with the electromagnetic valve 120 opening the water discharge flow path R01, before the control unit 211 causes the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01. This allows the user to take action in accordance with their wishes, further improving usability.

[0057] The notification unit 212 may notify the user by emitting an audible sound when the water flow sensor 130 does not detect a water flow while the electromagnetic valve 120 is opening the water discharge flow path R01. For example, the faucet unit 2 may further include an electric buzzer 23. When the water flow sensor 130 does not detect a water flow while the electromagnetic valve 120 is opening the water discharge flow path R01, the notification unit 212 may supply an electric signal to the buzzer 23 to generate an audible sound that the user can sense. This can prevent the notification from being overlooked, further improving usability. As an example, the buzzer 23 may be provided on the head holder 17 adjacent to the operation sensor 21 (see FIG. 1). The buzzer 23 may also be provided on the controller 200.

[0058] The notification unit 212 may use visible light to notify the user that no water flow is detected by the water flow sensor 130 when the electromagnetic valve 120 opens the water discharge flow path R01. For example, the faucet unit 2 may further include an operation lamp 22 that is a light-emitting element such as an LED. When the electromagnetic valve 120 opens the water discharge flow path R01 and no water flow is detected by the water flow sensor 130, the notification unit 212 may change the brightness or color of the visible light emitted by the operation lamp 22 so that it can be sensed by the user. Changing the brightness includes turning on an operation lamp 22 that was off, and turning off an operation lamp 22 that was on. As an example, the operation lamp 22 may be provided on the head holder 17 adjacent to the operation sensor 21 (see FIG. 1).

[0059] The notification unit 212 may be configured to notify the user of which of the following statuses the faucet device 1 is in. First status: The electromagnetic valve 120 closes the water discharge flow path R01. Second status: The electromagnetic valve 120 opens the water discharge flow path R01, and water flow is detected by the water flow sensor 130. Third status: The electromagnetic valve 120 opens the water discharge flow path R01, and water flow is not detected by the water flow sensor 130. By making it possible to grasp the status of the faucet device 1 in more detail, the usability of the faucet device 1 can be further improved.

[0060] Notification unit 212 may use visible light to notify the user whether the status of faucet device 1 is status 1, and may use audible sound to notify the user whether the status is not status 1 but is status 2 or status 3. The combination of visible light and audible sound can achieve both distinguishability of the status and prevention of overlooking status 3.

[0061] In particular, according to the example shown here, by using visible light for notification when there is the sound of water flow and audible sound for notification when there is no sound of water flow, it is possible to achieve both the distinguishability of the status and the prevention of overlooking the third status. However, the method of using visible light for notification and audible sound for notification is not limited to the example shown here. For example, the user may be notified by audible sound whether the status is the first status, and by visible light whether the status is the second status or the third status. Note that notifying the user by audible sound includes notifying the user by both audible sound and visible light, and notifying the user by visible light includes notifying the user by both visible light and audible sound.

[0062] For example, faucet unit 2 may have both the above-mentioned operation lamp 22 and buzzer 23. Notification unit 212 may notify the user whether faucet device 1 is in the first status by changing the brightness or color of the visible light emitted by operation lamp 22 so that the user can perceive it. Notification unit 212 may notify the user whether faucet device 1 is in the third status or the second status by whether or not buzzer 23 generates an audible sound.

[0063] Fig. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the controller 200. As shown in Fig. 5, the controller 200 includes a circuit 290. The circuit 290 includes a processor 291, a memory 292, a storage 293, a timer 294, an input / output port 295, and a valve drive circuit 296.

[0064] The storage 293 is composed of one or more non-volatile memory devices such as a flash memory or a hard disk. The storage 293 stores programs for configuring the control unit 211 and the notification unit 212 in the controller 200. The memory 292 is composed of one or more volatile memory devices such as a random access memory. The memory 292 temporarily stores programs loaded from the storage 293. The processor 291 is composed of one or more arithmetic devices such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The processor 291 configures the control unit 211 and the notification unit 212 in the controller 200 by executing the programs loaded in the memory 292. The calculation results by the processor 291 are temporarily stored in the memory 292.

[0065] The timer 294 measures the elapsed time by counting clock pulses. The input / output port 295 inputs and outputs electrical signals to and from the operation sensor 21, water flow sensor 130, operation lamp 22, buzzer 23, lever sensor 51, time setting dial 52, mode sensor 53, etc. in response to a request from the processor 291. The valve drive circuit 296 supplies power to the electromagnetic valve 120 in response to a request from the processor 291, opening and closing the water discharge flow path R01.

[0066] [Control procedure] As an example of the control method, the following illustrates a control procedure for the electromagnetic valve 120 by the controller 200. The control procedure includes a control procedure for the electromagnetic valve based on a user operation and a control procedure for the electromagnetic valve based on the elapsed time after the start of the water flow.

[0067] (Control procedure of solenoid valve based on user operation) FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure in which the controller 200 opens the electromagnetic valve 120 based on a user's operation, and closes the opened electromagnetic valve 120.

[0068] 6, the controller 200 first executes steps S01, S02, and S03. In step S01, the control unit 211 waits for the operation sensor 21 to detect a valve opening operation for opening the water discharge flow path R01 with the electromagnetic valve 120. In step S02, the control unit 211 causes the electromagnetic valve 120 to open the water discharge flow path R01. In step S03, the control unit 211 and the notification unit 212 check whether or not a water flow is detected by the water flow sensor 130.

[0069] If it is determined in step S03 that water flow is detected by the water flow sensor 130, the controller 200 executes steps S04 and S05. In step S04, the notification unit 212 notifies that the status of the water faucet device 1 is the second status described above. In step S05, the control unit 211 checks whether the operation sensor 21 has detected a valve closing operation to close the water discharge flow path R01 by the electromagnetic valve 120.

[0070] If it is determined in step S05 that a valve closing operation has not been detected, controller 200 returns the process to step S03. If it is determined in step S03 that water flow has not been detected by water flow sensor 130, controller 200 executes steps S06 and S07. In step S06, notification unit 212 notifies that the status of faucet device 1 is the above-mentioned third status. In step S07, control unit 211 checks whether the duration of the third status has exceeded a predetermined threshold.

[0071] If it is determined in step S07 that the duration of the third status does not exceed the threshold, the controller 200 returns the process to step S03. If it is determined in step S05 that a valve closing operation has been detected, or if it is determined in step S07 that the duration of the third status exceeds the threshold, the controller 200 executes steps S08 and S09. In step S08, the control unit 211 causes the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01. In step S09, the notification unit 212 notifies that the status of the water faucet device 1 is the above-mentioned first status. This completes the control procedure for the electromagnetic valve 120, from opening the electromagnetic valve 120 to closing the open electromagnetic valve 120.

[0072] (Control procedure of the solenoid valve based on the elapsed time after the start of the water flow) 7 is a flowchart illustrating the procedure in which the controller 200 sets the start timing and causes the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01 based on the elapsed time from the start timing. As shown in FIG. 7, the controller 200 first executes steps S11 and S12. In step S11, the start timing setting unit 213 waits for the water flow sensor 130 to detect a water flow. In step S12, the start timing setting unit 213 checks whether the switching device 32 is in the purified water mode.

[0073] If it is determined in step S12 that the switching device 32 is in the water purification mode, the controller 200 executes steps S13 and S14. In step S13, the start timing setting unit 213 sets the timing when the water flow begins to be detected by the water flow sensor 130 as the start timing. In step S14, the control unit 211 confirms the continuation of the water flow based on the detection result by the water flow sensor 130.

[0074] Next, the controller 200 executes steps S15 and S16. In step S15, the water discharge time setting unit 214 sets the water discharge time based on the rotation angle of the time setting dial 52. In step S16, the control unit 211 checks whether the elapsed time from the start timing has reached the water discharge time.

[0075] If it is determined in step S16 that the elapsed time has not reached the water discharge time, the controller 200 returns the process to step S14. Thereafter, the controller 200 repeats checking the continuation of the water flow and monitoring the elapsed time until the elapsed time reaches the water discharge time.

[0076] If it is determined in step S16 that the elapsed time has reached the water discharge time, the controller 200 executes step S17. In step S17, the control unit 211 causes the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01. This completes the procedure for causing the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01.

[0077] If it is determined in step S12 that the switching device 32 is in the raw water mode, the controller 200 ends the process without executing step S13 and subsequent steps. Because the start timing is not set, the control unit 211 does not execute automatic stop of water discharge. If it is confirmed in step S14 that the water flow has stopped, the controller 200 ends the process without executing step S15 and subsequent steps.

[0078] 〔summary〕 The above disclosure includes the following configurations. (1) A water faucet device 1 comprising: a manual valve 13 that changes the opening degree of a water discharge flow path R01 in conjunction with a manual lever handle 12; an electromagnetic valve 120 that is driven by electricity to open and close the water discharge flow path R01; a start timing setting unit 213 that sets the start timing to the point at which the manual valve 13 opens if the manual valve 13 opens after the electromagnetic valve 120 opens; and a control unit 211 that causes the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01 based on the elapsed time from the start timing. According to this water faucet device 1, if the manual valve 13 opens after the electromagnetic valve 120 opens, the time when the manual valve 13 opens is set as the start timing, and if the electromagnetic valve 120 opens after the manual valve 13 opens, the time when the electromagnetic valve 120 opens is set as the start timing, and the electromagnetic valve 120 closes the water discharge flow path R01 when a predetermined length of time has elapsed since the start timing. Therefore, in both cases where the manual valve 13 opens after the electromagnetic valve 120 opens, and where the electromagnetic valve 120 opens after the manual valve 13 opens, water discharge can be automatically stopped at the water discharge volume desired by the user. This is therefore effective in improving usability.

[0079] (2) The faucet device 1 described in (1) further includes a water flow sensor 130 that detects water flow in the discharge flow path R01, and the start timing setting unit 213 determines that the start timing is the timing when the state changes from one in which water flow is not detected by the water flow sensor 130 to one in which water flow is detected by the water flow sensor 130. The start timing can be easily set. The amount of water discharged is controlled based on the time elapsed from the start timing, so there is no need to detect the amount of water discharged using the water flow sensor 130. This allows for simplification of the water flow sensor 130.

[0080] (3) The faucet device 1 described in (2) further includes a water discharge time setting unit that sets the water discharge time based on user operation, and the control unit 211 causes the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01 when the elapsed time from the start timing reaches the water discharge time. This allows for flexible adaptation to changes in desired water discharge time depending on the purpose of use, thereby improving usability.

[0081] (4) The water outlet flow path R01 includes a low-temperature water flow path R11 that guides low-temperature water, a high-temperature water flow path R12 that guides high-temperature water that is hotter than the low-temperature water, and a mixed water flow path R20 that guides a mixture of low-temperature water guided by the low-temperature water and high-temperature water guided by the high-temperature water flow path R12 to the water outlet, and the water flow sensor 130 is provided in the mixed water flow path R20, in the faucet device 1 described in (2) or (3). The start timing can be set with high reliability in any of the following states: when only low-temperature water is discharged; when only high-temperature water is discharged; and when mixed water is discharged.

[0082] (5) The mixed water flow path R20 includes a first flow path R21 connected to the low-temperature water flow path R11 and the high-temperature water flow path R12, a second flow path R22 connected to the outlet, and a relay unit 100 that relays the first flow path R21 and the second flow path R22, and the relay unit 100 includes a first connection port 111 that is removably connected to the first flow path R21, a second connection port 112 that is removably connected to the second flow path R22, and a relay flow path 113 that guides the mixed water from the first connection port 111 to the second connection port 112, and an electromagnetic valve 120 is provided in the relay unit 100 to open and close the relay flow path 113, and a water flow sensor 130 is provided in the relay unit 100 to detect the water flow in the relay flow path 113, in the faucet device 1 described in (4). By combining the electromagnetic valve 120 and the water flow sensor 130 into the relay unit 100, the water faucet device 1 can be easily mounted.

[0083] (6) The water faucet device 1 according to any one of (2) to (5), wherein the water flow sensor 130 is a pressure sensor that outputs an electrical signal that represents the internal pressure of the water discharge flow path R01. The water flow sensor 130 can be simplified.

[0084] (7) The water flow sensor 130 is an electrical sensor that outputs an electrical signal representing the electrical resistance between a pair of electrodes that can come into contact with water in the water discharge flow path R01, in the faucet device 1 described in any one of (2) to (5). The water flow sensor 130 can be simplified.

[0085] (8) The water faucet device 1 according to any one of (2) to (5), wherein the water flow sensor 130 is a flow rate sensor that outputs an electrical signal that indicates the flow rate of water in the water discharge flow path R01. The water flow sensor 130 can be simplified.

[0086] (9) A water faucet device 1 described in any one of (2) to (8), wherein the control unit 211 causes the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01 when the duration of the state in which the electromagnetic valve 120 opens the water discharge flow path R01 and the water flow sensor 130 does not detect water flow exceeds a predetermined length. The unintentional state where only the electromagnetic valve 120 is open is automatically resolved. This prevents erroneous operations such as opening the manual valve 13 while mistakenly thinking that the electromagnetic valve 120 is closed, and unintentionally starting water discharge.

[0087] (10) The water faucet device 1 according to (9), wherein the electromagnetic valve 120 opens the water discharge flow path R01 when power is supplied, and closes the water discharge flow path R01 when power is not supplied. It is possible to reduce the power consumption required to keep the electromagnetic valve 120 open.

[0088] (11) A water purification device 1A comprising: a manual valve 13 that changes the opening degree of a water discharge flow path R01 in conjunction with a manual lever handle 12; an electromagnetic valve 120 that is driven by electricity to open and close the water discharge flow path R01; a water purification cartridge 40 that is placed in the water discharge flow path R01; a start timing setting unit 213 that sets the start timing to the point at which the manual valve 13 opens if the manual valve 13 opens after the electromagnetic valve 120 opens; and a control unit 211 that causes the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01 based on the elapsed time from the start timing. This is effective in improving the usability of the water purification device 1A.

[0089] (12) The water purification device 1A described in (11) further includes a switching device for switching between a purified water mode in which water is discharged through the water purification cartridge 40 and a raw water mode in which water is discharged without passing through the water purification cartridge 40, and a water flow sensor 130 for detecting water flow in a shared flow path R30 of the water discharge flow path R01 that is shared by the purified water mode and the raw water mode, and the start timing setting unit 213 sets the start timing to the timing when the state changes from one in which water flow is not detected by the water flow sensor 130 to one in which water flow is detected by the water flow sensor 130. In both the purified water mode and the raw water mode, the water flow sensor 130 can be used in common to automatically stop water discharge at the water discharge rate desired by the user.

[0090] (13) A water purification device 1A described in (11) or (12) that has a switching device that switches between a purified water mode in which water is discharged through the water purification cartridge 40 and a raw water mode in which water is discharged without passing through the water purification cartridge 40, and the control unit 211 controls the electromagnetic valve 120 based on whether the switching device is in the purified water mode or the raw water mode. The purified water mode and the raw water mode may have different needs for automatic control of the electromagnetic valve 120. By controlling the electromagnetic valve 120 based additionally on whether it is the purified water mode or the raw water mode, it is possible to control the electromagnetic valve 120 in a way that better matches the needs.

[0091] (14) The water purification device 1A described in (13) in which the control unit 211 does not cause the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01 based on the elapsed time from the start timing when the switching device is in raw water mode, but does so when the switching device is in purified water mode. When using purified water, a certain amount of water may be required for cooking purposes, etc., while when using raw water, an unlimited amount of water may be required for cleaning purposes, etc. The solenoid valve 120 can be controlled to meet such needs.

[0092] (15) A device for expanding the functionality of a water faucet device 1 having a manual valve 13 that changes the opening degree of the water discharge flow path R01 in conjunction with a manual lever handle 12, the function expansion device 3 for the water faucet device 1 comprising: a first connection port 111 connected to a first flow path R21 of the water discharge flow path R01 that is connected to a water supply; a second connection port 112 connected to a second flow path R22 of the water discharge flow path R01 that is connected to the water outlet; a relay flow path 113 that conducts mixed water from the first connection port 111 to the second connection port 112; an electromagnetic valve 120 that opens and closes the relay flow path 113, which is powered by electricity; a start timing setting unit 213 that sets the start timing to the time when the manual valve 13 opens after the electromagnetic valve 120 opens, and sets the start timing to the time when the electromagnetic valve 120 opens if the electromagnetic valve 120 opens after the manual valve 13 opens; and a control unit 211 that causes the electromagnetic valve 120 to close the water discharge flow path R01 based on the elapsed time from the start timing.

[0093] Although the embodiments have been described above, the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0094] 1...faucet device, 1A...water purification device, 12...lever handle, 13...manual valve, 40...water purification cartridge, R01...discharge flow path, R11...low-temperature water flow path, R12...high-temperature water flow path, R20...mixed water flow path, R21...first flow path, R22...second flow path, R30...shared flow path, 100...relay unit, 111...first connection port, 112...second connection port, 113...relay flow path, 120...electromagnetic valve, 213...start timing setting unit, 211...control unit, 130...water flow sensor, 3...function expansion device.

Claims

1. A manual valve that changes the opening of the water discharge channel in conjunction with a manual lever handle; an electromagnetic valve that is driven by electricity to open and close the water discharge flow path; a start timing setting unit that sets the time when the manual valve is opened as a start timing when the manual valve is opened after the electromagnetic valve is opened, and that sets the time when the electromagnetic valve is opened as the start timing when the electromagnetic valve is opened after the manual valve is opened; a control unit that causes the electromagnetic valve to close the water discharge flow path based on the elapsed time from the start timing; A faucet device comprising:

2. Further provided is a water flow sensor for detecting a water flow in the water discharge flow path, The start timing setting unit determines the timing when the state where the water flow is not detected by the water flow sensor is switched to the state where the water flow is detected by the water flow sensor as the start timing. The water faucet device according to claim 1.

3. Further provided is a water discharge time setting unit that sets the water discharge time based on a user operation, the control unit causes the electromagnetic valve to close the water discharge flow path when the elapsed time from the start timing reaches the water discharge time. The water faucet device according to claim 2.

4. The water discharge flow path is a low-temperature water flow path for guiding low-temperature water; a high-temperature water flow path for guiding high-temperature water having a temperature higher than that of the low-temperature water; a mixed water flow path that guides mixed water of the low-temperature water guided by the low-temperature water and the high-temperature water guided by the high-temperature water flow path to a water outlet; Including, The water flow sensor is provided in the mixed water flow path. The water faucet device according to claim 2.

5. The mixed water flow path is a first flow path connected to the low-temperature water flow path and the high-temperature water flow path; A second flow path connected to the water outlet; a relay unit that relays the first flow path and the second flow path; Including, The relay unit includes: a first connection port detachably connected to the first flow path; a second connection port detachably connected to the second flow path; a relay flow path that guides the mixed water from the first connection port to the second connection port; Includes, includes, the electromagnetic valve is provided in the relay unit to open and close the relay flow path, The water flow sensor is provided in the relay unit so as to detect the water flow in the relay flow path. The water faucet device according to claim 4.

6. The water flow sensor is a pressure sensor that outputs an electrical signal representing the internal pressure of the water discharge flow path. The water faucet device according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

7. The water flow sensor is an electrical sensor that outputs an electrical signal representing the electrical resistance between a pair of electrodes that can come into contact with water in the water discharge flow path. The water faucet device according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

8. The water flow sensor is a flow rate sensor that outputs an electrical signal representing the flow rate of water in the water discharge flow path. The water faucet device according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

9. The control unit causes the electromagnetic valve to close the water discharge flow path when a duration of a state in which the electromagnetic valve opens the water discharge flow path and the water flow sensor does not detect a water flow exceeds a predetermined length. The water faucet device according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

10. The electromagnetic valve opens the water discharge flow path when power is supplied, and closes the water discharge flow path when power is not supplied. The water faucet device according to claim 9.

11. A manual valve that changes the opening of the water discharge channel in conjunction with a manual lever handle; an electromagnetic valve that is driven by electricity to open and close the water discharge flow path; A water purification cartridge disposed in the water discharge flow path; a start timing setting unit that sets the time when the manual valve is opened as a start timing when the manual valve is opened after the electromagnetic valve is opened, and that sets the time when the electromagnetic valve is opened as the start timing when the electromagnetic valve is opened after the manual valve is opened; a control unit that causes the electromagnetic valve to close the water discharge flow path based on the elapsed time from the start timing; A water purification device comprising:

12. A switching device that switches between a purified water mode in which water is discharged through the purified water cartridge and a raw water mode in which water is discharged without passing through the purified water cartridge; a water flow sensor that detects a water flow in a common flow path that is used in both the purified water mode and the raw water mode among the water discharge flow paths; Further provided with The start timing setting unit determines the timing when the state where the water flow is not detected by the water flow sensor is switched to the state where the water flow is detected by the water flow sensor as the start timing. The water purification device according to claim 11.

13. A switching device that switches between a purified water mode in which water is discharged through the purified water cartridge and a raw water mode in which water is discharged without passing through the purified water cartridge; The control unit controls the electromagnetic valve further based on whether the switching device is in the purified water mode or the raw water mode. The water purification device according to claim 11.

14. The control unit does not cause the electromagnetic valve to close the water discharge flow path based on the elapsed time from the start timing when the switching device is in the raw water mode, but does so when the switching device is in the purified water mode. The water purification device according to claim 13.

15. A device that expands the function of a water faucet device having a manual valve that changes the opening of a water discharge flow path in conjunction with a manual lever handle, A first connection port connected to a first flow path connected to a water supply among the water discharge flow paths; A second connection port connected to a second flow path connected to the water outlet, among the water discharge flow paths; a relay flow path that guides the mixed water from the first connection port to the second connection port; an electromagnetic valve that is driven by electricity and opens and closes the relay flow path; a start timing setting unit that sets the time when the manual valve is opened as a start timing when the manual valve is opened after the electromagnetic valve is opened, and that sets the time when the electromagnetic valve is opened as the start timing when the electromagnetic valve is opened after the manual valve is opened; a control unit that causes the electromagnetic valve to close the water discharge flow path based on the elapsed time from the start timing; A function expansion device for a faucet device comprising:

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