Faucet equipment

Abstract

To reduce the size of a spout in a water faucet device in which the spout can be pulled out from a faucet mounting part. [Solution] The faucet device according to the embodiment includes a spout that can be pulled out from a faucet mounting portion and a flexible hose that connects the spout to a water supply source. The spout includes a tubular exterior member, a connecting member that connects to the tip of the flexible hose inserted into the exterior member, and an engaging member that is housed in the exterior member upstream of the connecting member in the direction of water flow discharged from the spout and is provided between the exterior member and the flexible hose. The engaging member includes a first engaging portion that engages with the exterior member and a second engaging portion that engages with the connecting member at a location different from the first engaging portion.

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, faucet devices are known that allow the spout to be pulled out for use (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In the conventional technology, a flexible hose inserted into the spout and the external components of the spout are fixed together by a retaining ring inserted from the outside to the inside of the spout. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-33712 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In conventional technology, the spout is designed with the length of the retaining ring in the insertion direction in mind, as the connecting member to which the flexible hose is connected and the exterior member of the spout are overlapped and the retaining ring is inserted into each hole formed in the connecting member and the exterior member. As a result, the size of the spout in the plane perpendicular to the water flow direction (hereinafter simply referred to as "spout size") may become large.

[0005] One embodiment of the invention aims to provide a faucet device in which the spout can be extended from the faucet mounting portion, thereby enabling a reduction in the size of the spout. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A faucet device according to one embodiment comprises a spout that can be pulled out from a faucet mounting portion and a flexible hose that connects the spout to a water source. The spout comprises a cylindrical outer member, a connecting member connected to the tip of the flexible hose inserted into the outer member, and an engaging member housed in the outer member upstream of the connecting member in the direction of water flow discharged from the spout, and provided between the outer member and the flexible hose. The engaging member comprises a first engaging portion that engages with the outer member and a second engaging portion that engages with the connecting member at a location different from the first engaging portion.

[0007] As a result, the faucet device can have a first engaging part that engages with the exterior component and a second engaging part that engages with the connecting component that connects to the flexible hose, located in different places, thereby reducing the thickness required to provide each engaging part. Therefore, the size of the spout of the faucet device can be reduced. Furthermore, by reducing the size of the spout, the aesthetic design of the faucet device can be improved. In addition, the size of the spout of the faucet device can be reduced without making the flexible hose thinner.

[0008] The first engagement portion is engaged with the appearance member by snap-fitting.

[0009] This allows the faucet device to engage the engaging member with the exterior member while reducing the thickness of the area where the engaging member and the exterior member engage. As a result, the size of the spout of the faucet device can be reduced. Furthermore, the faucet device can reduce the size of the spout while preventing, for example, the flexible hose from becoming thinner. In addition, it becomes easier for workers to release the engagement between the engaging member and the exterior member, making it easier to disassemble the faucet device. As a result, workers can easily perform maintenance on the faucet device.

[0010] Additionally, the second engagement portion abuts against the connection member in the direction of water flow.

[0011] This allows the faucet device to engage the engaging member and the connecting member while reducing the thickness of the area where the engaging member and the connecting member engage. As a result, the size of the spout of the faucet device can be reduced. Furthermore, the faucet device can reduce the size of the spout while preventing, for example, the flexible hose from becoming thinner. In addition, since the second engaging part abuts the connecting member in the direction of water flow, if the engagement between the engaging member and the exterior member of the faucet device is released, the engagement between the engaging member and the connecting member can be released, for example, by moving the engaging member upstream. As a result, it becomes easier for workers to disassemble the faucet device and perform maintenance on the faucet device.

[0012] The spout is housed in the exterior member and includes a water discharge member that discharges water, and a stopper that is located downstream of the water discharge member in the direction of water flow and abuts against the water discharge member. A groove is formed in the inner wall of the exterior member along the circumferential direction. The stopper is fitted into the groove.

[0013] This allows the faucet device to prevent the water discharge component housed in the spout from coming out of the spout using a stopper. Furthermore, by fitting the stopper into a groove provided in the inner wall of the exterior component, the amount of protrusion of the stopper into the spout can be reduced. Therefore, for example, the stopper can be made less conspicuous when the faucet device is viewed from the direction of water discharge. In addition, the movement of the water discharge component can be prevented without inserting it from the outside to the inside of the exterior component using, for example, a screw. Therefore, the size of the spout of the faucet device can be reduced.

[0014] The groove also has a notch on the downstream side in the direction of water flow.

[0015] This allows users to remove the stopper from the groove through the notch. For example, workers can insert a thin pin into the notch to remove the stopper from the groove. This makes it easy for workers to perform maintenance on the faucet device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to one aspect of the embodiment, in a faucet device in which the spout can be pulled out from the faucet mounting portion, the size of the spout can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a part of a bathroom vanity on which a faucet device according to an embodiment is provided. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view of a portion of the bathroom vanity. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the cross section taken along line III-III in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the guide member as seen obliquely from behind. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the front end side of the spout shown in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a view of the front end side of the spout as seen from below. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The faucet device 6 according to the embodiment is installed, for example, in a bathroom vanity 1 as shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing a part of the bathroom vanity 1 on which the faucet device 6 according to the embodiment is installed. In Fig. 1, some of the configuration of the bathroom vanity 1 is omitted. The faucet device 6 may be installed in a location other than the bathroom vanity 1.

[0019] In the following, the side in front of the vanity 1 where the user stands will be referred to as the front side, the wall side where the back of the vanity 1 is attached will be referred to as the back side, the right-hand side of the user standing in front of the vanity 1 and looking at the vanity 1 will be referred to as the right side, and the left-hand side will be referred to as the left side. In addition, the vertical direction will be referred to as the bottom side, and the direction opposite to the vertical direction will be referred to as the top side.

[0020] The bathroom vanity 1 includes a lower cabinet 2, a washbasin 3, a wall panel 4 (a faucet mounting portion), an operating device 5, and a faucet device 6.

[0021] The lower cabinet 2 is positioned on the floor so that its back surface abuts against the wall on which the vanity unit 1 is installed, and is configured to allow items to be stored inside.

[0022] The washbasin 3 is positioned on top of the lower cabinet 2, and is configured so that most of the depth of the vanity 1 can be used as space for washing.

[0023] The wall panel 4 is provided to extend upward from the lower cabinet 2. The wall panel 4 is provided behind the washbasin 3. The wall panel 4 is configured as a box-shaped box that protrudes forward from the wall on which the bathroom vanity 1 is installed. The wall panel 4 houses various functional parts such as a flexible hose 10 (see Figure 2) described below. The wall panel 4 is configured to communicate with the lower cabinet 2. Some of the various functional parts such as the flexible hose 10 are housed in the lower cabinet 2. The wall panel 4 does not have to communicate with the lower cabinet 2. The various functional parts such as the flexible hose 10 may be housed only in the wall panel 4.

[0024] The operating device 5 is mounted on the wall panel 4. The operating device 5 receives commands related to water discharge from the faucet device 6. The operating device 5 switches between a water discharge state, where water is discharged from the faucet device 6, and a water shut-off state, where water is not discharged from the faucet device 6, when operated by the user. The operating device 5 adjusts the amount of water discharged from the faucet device 6, when operated by the user. The operating device 5 adjusts the temperature of the discharged water, when operated by the user.

[0025] The water includes water supplied from an external water supply, hot water supplied from a water heater, and mixed water (hot water) from both the external water supply and the water heater. For example, when adjusting the water temperature, the operating device 5 changes the mixing ratio of water supplied from an external water supply and hot water supplied from the water heater. The operating device 5 may not adjust the water temperature.

[0026] The faucet device 6 is configured to dispense water in response to the operation of the control device 5. As shown in Figure 2, the faucet device 6 includes a flexible hose 10, a hose guide 11, and a spout 12. Figure 2 is a front view of a part of the vanity unit 1. As shown in Figure 3, the faucet device 6 includes a guide member 13. Figure 3 is an enlarged view of the III-III cross-section in Figure 2. The faucet device 6 is a pull-out type faucet device configured to allow the spout 12 to be pulled out for washing hair or cleaning the washbasin 3.

[0027] In the following, the direction of water flow may be defined as the direction of the water flow discharged from the spout 12. That is, the direction of water flow is the direction of the water flowing through the faucet device 6. The direction of water flow is upstream on the operating device 5 side and downstream on the spout 12 side. In addition, the direction in which the spout 12 is pulled out in the washbasin vanity 1 according to this embodiment is forward. That is, the direction in which the spout 12 is pulled out and the direction in which it is pushed back are the front-back direction. The spout 12 may also be pulled out diagonally downward.

[0028] The flexible hose 10 is a flexible water supply hose that is coated with metal. The flexible hose 10 connects the spout 12 and a water supply pipe 14 (water supply source). The water supply pipe 14 is a pipe into which water flows when water is supplied by operating the operating device 5. The water supply pipe 14 is fixed to the lower cabinet 2, for example. One end of the flexible hose 10 is connected to the water supply pipe 14. The other end of the flexible hose 10 is connected to the spout 12.

[0029] The flexible hose 10 is housed in the wall panel 4 and the lower cabinet 2. As shown in FIG. 2, the flexible hose 10 extends downward from the water supply pipe 14 and is folded back upward at its lower end in a generally U-shape. After being folded back upward, the flexible hose 10 extends upward and is inserted into the wall panel 4, and is provided so as to extend upward within the wall panel 4. As shown in FIG. 3, the flexible hose 10 is provided so as to curve forward in the wall panel 4, pass through a guide member 13, and extend forward. The flexible hose 10 is connected to a spout 12 on the front side.

[0030] The flexible hose 10 is pulled out from the wall panel 4 and pushed back into the wall panel 4 in response to the operation of the spout 12 by the user.

[0031] The hose guide 11 is housed in the wall panel 4 and the lower cabinet 2. The hose guide 11 may be housed only in the wall panel 4. The hose guide 11 guides the flexible hose 10. Specifically, the hose guide 11 guides the sliding of the flexible hose 10 housed in the wall panel 4 and the lower cabinet 2. The hose guide 11 is provided in the wall panel 4 so as to guide the sliding of the flexible hose 10 extending downward from near the point where the flexible hose 10 bends forward.

[0032] The hose guide 11 is configured to cover the flexible hose 10. The hose guide 11 may be provided on the wall panel 4 and on a portion between the lower cabinet 2 and the flexible hose 10. For example, the hose guide 11 may be provided between the front wall panel 4 and the flexible hose 10. Alternatively, the hose guide 11 may be provided between the rear wall panel 4 and the flexible hose 10. The hose guide 11 is attached to the wall panel 4 via an attachment member.

[0033] The guide member 13 slidably guides the flexible hose 10 inserted inside. The guide member 13 is fixed to the wall panel 4. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3 , the guide member 13 is attached to the wall panel 4 via an attachment member 15. The guide member 13 is attached to the wall panel 4 so as to pass through a hole 4a formed in the wall panel 4. When the spout 12 is not pulled out from the wall panel 4, the spout 12 is attached to the guide member 13. In other words, the spout 12 is detachable from the guide member 13.

[0034] The guide member 13 will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. As shown in Figure 4, the guide member 13 includes a guide main body 20, an attachment portion 21, and a support portion 22. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the guide member 13 as seen obliquely from behind.

[0035] The guide body 20 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The guide body 20 is provided so as to protrude forward from the wall panel 4. A portion of the guide body 20 is inserted into the hole 4a in the wall panel 4. The guide body 20 is provided so as to extend in the front-to-rear direction. The guide body 20 is provided with an insertion path 24 into which the flexible hose 10 is inserted. The guide body 20 includes a spout support portion 25 and an enlarged portion 26.

[0036] Spout support portion 25 is configured to allow spout 12 to be attached and detached. Spout support portion 25 is provided forward of wall panel 4. Spout support portion 25 is formed to extend along the front-rear direction.

[0037] The enlarged portion 26 is positioned behind the spout support portion 25. The enlarged portion 26 extends rearward from the rear end of the spout support portion 25. The front end of the enlarged portion 26 is positioned in front of the wall panel 4. The rear end of the enlarged portion 26 is positioned to protrude into the wall panel 4.

[0038] The enlarged portion 26 is formed to protrude outward from the spout support portion 25. The enlarged portion 26 is formed to widen in the direction in which the flexible hose 10 is housed in the wall panel 4. When the flexible hose 10 is housed downward from the guide member 13 into the wall panel 4, the direction in which the flexible hose 10 is housed is downward. Therefore, the enlarged portion 26 is formed to widen downward. Specifically, the enlarged portion 26 is formed to widen downward as it moves towards the rear.

[0039] The insertion passage 24 includes a first insertion passage 24a and a second insertion passage 24b. The first insertion passage 24a is formed to linearly support the flexible hose 10 inserted into the first insertion passage 24a. The first insertion passage 24a is formed along the front-rear direction. That is, the first insertion passage 24a is formed so that the flexible hose 10 extends in the front-rear direction. The first insertion passage 24a is formed, for example, in the spout support portion 25.

[0040] The second insertion passage 24b is located behind the first insertion passage 24a. The cross-sectional area of ​​the second insertion passage 24b is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first insertion passage 24a. The cross-sectional area is the cross-sectional area in a plane perpendicular to the front-rear direction. The cross-sectional area in the second insertion passage 24b is the cross-sectional area along a virtual line connecting the tips of the ribs 27, which will be described later. The cross-sectional area in the second insertion passage 24b is the area in which the flexible hose 10 can be inserted.

[0041] The second insertion passage 24b is formed such that the flexible hose 10 inserted into the second insertion passage 24b curves in the direction in which the flexible hose 10 is housed in the wall panel 4. The second insertion passage 24b is formed to widen in the direction in which the flexible hose 10 is housed in the wall panel 4. Specifically, the second insertion passage 24b is formed to widen downwards. For example, the second insertion passage 24b has a curved surface 24c that follows the curve of the flexible hose 10. The curved surface 24c is formed to widen downwards as it is towards the rear. That is, the curved surface 24c curves downwards as it is towards the rear.

[0042] Thus, the insertion passage 24 has a curved base end 24d formed within it, where the bending of the flexible hose 10 begins. In other words, the guide member 13 has a curved base end 24d inside where the bending of the flexible hose 10 begins. The curved base end 24d is the point where the flexible hose 10 inserted into the first insertion passage 24a begins to bend downward, which is the direction in which the flexible hose 10 is housed. For example, the curved base end 24d is the point that forms the boundary between the first insertion passage 24a and the second insertion passage 24b in the front-rear direction.

[0043] The first insertion path 24a is an insertion path located downstream of the curved base end 24d in the direction of water flow, and the second insertion path 24b is an insertion path located upstream of the curved base end 24d in the direction of water flow.

[0044] A plurality of ribs 27 are formed in the second insertion path 24b. The plurality of ribs 27 are formed in the second insertion path 24b in a direction different from the direction in which the flexible hose 10 is accommodated. The plurality of ribs 27 are formed, for example, on the upper wall surface of the second insertion path 24b and on the side wall surfaces in the left and right directions of the second insertion path 24b.

[0045] The multiple ribs 27 are formed to extend in the front-to-rear direction. The multiple ribs 27 are configured to be able to guide the flexible hose 10. The multiple ribs 27 are formed to prevent the flexible hose 10 from bending in a direction different from the direction of accommodation when the flexible hose 10, which has been pulled out from the wall panel 4, is pushed back (stored) into the wall panel 4. The multiple ribs 27 are also formed to reduce contact resistance with the flexible hose 10 that comes into contact with the flexible hose 10 when the flexible hose 10 is pulled out from the wall panel 4 or when the flexible hose 10 is pushed back into the wall panel 4. The ribs 27 may also be formed on the curved surface 24c.

[0046] The mounting portion 21 is formed, for example, so as to protrude upward from the guide main body 20. The mounting portion 21 is formed with a screw hole 21a into which a screw 28 is inserted for fixing the guide member 13 to the mounting member 15. The support portion 22 is formed, for example, so as to protrude in the left-right direction from the guide main body 20. The support portion 22 is formed with an insertion hole 22a into which a support pin for supporting the guide member 13 is inserted.

[0047] Next, spout 12 will be described with reference to Figures 3, 5, and 6. Figure 5 is an enlarged view of the front end side of spout 12 shown in Figure 3. Figure 6 is a view of the front end side of spout 12 as seen from below.

[0048] The spout 12 is detachable from the guide member 13. The spout 12 is attached to the wall panel 4 via the guide member 13. That is, the spout 12 can be pulled out from the wall panel 4. The spout 12 spouts water supplied via the flexible hose 10. As shown in FIG. 3 , the spout 12 includes an exterior member 30, a connecting member 31, an engaging member 32, a joint member 33, a water-spouting member 34, and a stopper 35.

[0049] The exterior member 30 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The exterior member 30 is formed to extend in the front-rear direction. The exterior member 30 is formed so that its front end curves downward. The flexible hose 10, which is inserted into the guide member 13, is inserted into the exterior member 30.

[0050] An engagement hole 30a is formed in the exterior member 30. The engagement hole 30a is formed in the rear end of the exterior member 30. The engagement hole 30a is formed in the lower exterior member 30. A groove 30b is formed in the exterior member 30, as shown in Figures 5 and 6. The groove 30b is formed in the inner wall of the front end of the exterior member 30. The groove 30b is formed along the circumferential direction of the exterior member 30. Specifically, the groove 30b is formed along the circumferential direction, extending around the entire circumference of the inner wall of the exterior member 30. A notch 30c is formed in the groove 30b. The notch 30c is formed in the groove 30b on the downstream side in the direction of water flow. The notch 30c is formed along the direction of water flow.

[0051] As shown in Figure 3, the connecting member 31 is housed in the exterior member 30. The connecting member 31 is connected to the front end of the flexible hose 10 inserted into the exterior member 30. The connecting member 31 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The connecting member 31 comprises a first connecting member 37 and a second connecting member 38.

[0052] The first connecting member 37 is connected to the front end of the flexible hose 10. The first connecting member 37 is provided so as to protrude downstream in the direction of water flow from the front end of the flexible hose 10. A portion of the first connecting member 37 is inserted into the flexible hose 10. For example, a portion of the first connecting member 37 is press-fitted into the flexible hose 10.

[0053] The second connecting member 38 is provided upstream of the first connecting member 37 in the direction of water flow. The second connecting member 38 is provided behind the first connecting member 37. The second connecting member 38 is connected to the metal coating of the flexible hose 10. The second connecting member 38 is provided so as to cover the outside of the front end of the flexible hose 10 inserted into the exterior member 30. The second connecting member 38 abuts against a part of the outer circumferential wall of the flexible hose 10 into which a part of the first connecting member 37 is inserted. The front end of the second connecting member 38 abuts against the first connecting member 37. Specifically, the front end surface of the second connecting member 38 abuts against the first connecting member 37.

[0054] A portion of the second connecting member 38 and the first connecting member 37 are inserted into the joint member 33. For example, a portion of the second connecting member 38 is fitted into the joint member 33. Also, for example, the first connecting member 37 is fitted into the joint member 33. A sealing member 50 is provided between the outer peripheral wall of the first connecting member 37 and the inner peripheral wall of the joint member 33. The connecting member 31 may be configured to be able to contact the joint member 33 in the front-rear direction. For example, the front end surface of the second connecting member 38 may be configured to contact the joint member 33 in the front-rear direction.

[0055] The engaging member 32 is housed in the exterior member 30. The engaging member 32 is housed in the exterior member 30 upstream of the connecting member 31 in the direction of water flow. The engaging member 32 is provided behind the connecting member 31. The engaging member 32 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The engaging member 32 is provided between the exterior member 30 and the flexible hose 10. When the spout 12 is attached to the guide member 13, the guide member 13 is inserted into the engaging member 32. Specifically, when the spout 12 is attached to the guide member 13, the spout support portion 25 of the guide member 13 is inserted between the engaging member 32 and the flexible hose 10. A sealing member 51 is provided between the engaging member 32 and the exterior member 30.

[0056] The engaging member 32 comprises a first engaging portion 40 and a second engaging portion 41. The first engaging portion 40 engages with the exterior member 30. The first engaging portion 40 engages with the exterior member 30 by a snap fit. The first engaging portion 40 comprises an arm portion 42 and a claw portion 43.

[0057] The arm portion 42 is provided at the lower end of the engaging member 32. The arm portion 42 is formed to extend rearward from the front base end. The arm portion 42 is formed to be able to flex around the base end.

[0058] The claw portion 43 is formed at the rear end of the arm portion 42. The claw portion 43 is formed to protrude downward from the arm portion 42. The claw portion 43 engages with the engagement hole 30a of the exterior member 30.

[0059] The second engagement portion 41 is provided at a different location from the first engagement portion 40. The second engagement portion 41 is provided downstream of the first engagement portion 40 in the water flow direction. The second engagement portion 41 is provided forward of the first engagement portion 40. The second engagement portion 41 engages with the connecting member 31. Specifically, the second engagement portion 41 abuts against the connecting member 31 in the water flow direction. For example, the second engagement portion 41 is the front end surface of the engagement member 32. The second engagement portion 41 abuts against the rear end surface of the second connecting member 38.

[0060] The coupling member 33 is housed in the exterior member 30. The coupling member 33 is housed in the exterior member 30, which extends in the front-to-rear direction. The coupling member 33 is housed in the exterior member 30 downstream of the engaging member 32 in the water flow direction. The coupling member 33 is provided forward of the engaging member 32. The coupling member 33 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The connecting member 31 is inserted into the rear end of the coupling member 33. The water discharge member 34 is inserted into the front end of the coupling member 33.

[0061] The water discharge member 34 is housed in the exterior member 30. The water discharge member 34 is housed in the exterior member 30, which curves downward. A portion of the water discharge member 34 is housed in the exterior member 30, which extends in the front-to-rear direction. The water discharge member 34 is housed in the exterior member 30, downstream of the joint member 33 in the direction of water flow. The water discharge member 34 is provided forward of the joint member 33. The rear end of the water discharge member 34 is inserted into the joint member 33. For example, the water discharge member 34 is fitted into the joint member 33. A seal member 52 is provided between the outer peripheral wall of the water discharge member 34 and the inner peripheral wall of the joint member 33.

[0062] The water spouting member 34 is formed so as to slope downward from the rear to the front, and also to bend, in accordance with the shape of the appearance member 30, which curves downward. A flow straightening section 44 is provided at the front end of the water spouting member 34. The flow straightening section 44 straightens the flow of water spouted from the spout 12. A seal member 53 is provided between the outer peripheral wall of the water spouting member 34 on the front end side and the inner peripheral wall of the appearance member 30.

[0063] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the stopper 35 is fitted into a groove 30b formed in the exterior member 30. The stopper 35 is a substantially C-shaped ring member. When fitted into the groove 30b, the stopper 35 protrudes inward beyond the inner wall of the exterior member 30. The stopper 35 is configured to prevent the water discharger member 34 from moving downstream in the direction of water flow. Specifically, the stopper 35 abuts against the tip of the water discharger member 34 on the downstream side in the direction of water flow.

[0064] In the faucet device 6, when the spout 12 is pulled out from the wall panel 4, i.e., when the spout 12 is removed from the guide member 13 and used, the spout 12 and the flexible hose 10 are pulled out from the wall panel 4 together.

[0065] In the spout 12, the first engagement portion 40 of the engagement member 32 engages with the engagement hole 30a of the appearance member 30, causing the engagement member 32 and the appearance member 30 to move together. When the spout 12 is pulled out from the wall panel 4, the second engagement portion 41 of the engagement member 32 engages (contacts) with the rear end surface of the connecting member 31, causing the connecting member 31 to be pushed forward by the engagement member 32, and the connecting member 31 moves together with the engagement member 32. In other words, the connecting member 31 moves together with the appearance member 30.

[0066] The flexible hose 10 is connected to the connecting member 31, and when the spout 12 is pulled out from the wall panel 4, it moves together with the connecting member 31 and is pulled out from the wall panel 4. In other words, the flexible hose 10 is pulled out from the wall panel 4 together with the spout 12.

[0067] When the spout 12, which is extended from the wall panel 4, is attached to the wall panel 4, that is, when the spout 12 is pushed back, the spout 12 and the flexible hose 10 are pushed back together as a single unit.

[0068] When the spout 12 is pushed back, the stopper 35 abuts against the tip of the water discharge member 34 on the downstream side in the water flow direction, so the water discharge member 34 moves and is pushed back together with the exterior member 30. The water discharge member 34, joint member 33, and connection member 31 also move and are pushed back together. The flexible hose 10 is pushed back together with the connection member 31, and a portion of the flexible hose 10 is housed in the wall panel 4. Note that the engaging member 32 is in contact with the connection member 31 in the front-to-rear direction by the second engaging portion 41, and is engaged with the exterior member 30 by the first engaging portion 40, so it moves and is pushed back together with the exterior member 30 and the like.

[0069] The flexible hose 10 is inserted into the guide member 13, and curves downward from the rearward side of the curved base end 24d of the guide member 13 and is housed in the wall panel 4. The curved base end 24d is formed in the insertion passage 24 of the guide member 13 and is formed in front of the wall panel 4. In the second insertion passage 24b provided behind the curved base end 24d, the guide member 13 has a curved surface 24c that widens downward as it moves towards the rear.

[0070] As a result, the flexible hose 10 curves downward along the curved surface 24c, starting from the front of the wall panel 4. Therefore, the length of the curved flexible hose 10 in the front-to-back direction within the wall panel 4 is shortened. In other words, the length of the wall panel 4 required to accommodate the curved flexible hose 10 in the front-to-back direction is shortened.

[0071] When the flexible hose 10 is pulled out from the wall panel 4 and when the flexible hose 10 is pushed back into the wall panel 4, the flexible hose 10 slides within the wall panel 4, guided by the hose guide 11. As a result, the flexible hose 10 moves smoothly along the hose guide 11 within the wall panel 4, while being prevented from coming into contact with other components, for example.

[0072] Furthermore, by forming a plurality of ribs 27 extending in the front-rear direction in the second insertion passage 24b of the guide member 13, for example, when the flexible hose 10 is pushed back, the flexible hose 10 is guided by the ribs 27. Specifically, the ribs 27 prevent the flexible hose 10 from bending in a direction different from the direction in which it is stored in the wall panel 4.

[0073] The faucet device 6 comprises a spout 12 that can be pulled out from the wall panel 4, a flexible hose 10 that connects the spout 12 to the water supply pipe 14, and a guide member 13 that slidably guides the flexible hose 10 inserted inside and is fixed to the wall panel 4. The guide member 13 has a curved base end 24d inside from which the bending of the flexible hose 10 begins.

[0074] As a result, the flexible hose 10 begins to curve within the guide member 13 in the direction in which it will be housed, and is housed in the wall panel 4. Therefore, the faucet device 6 can reduce the front-to-back space required in the wall panel 4 to house the curved flexible hose 10. Specifically, the faucet device 6 can reduce the thickness of the wall panel 4 required to house the curved flexible hose 10. By reducing the thickness of the wall panel 4, the faucet device 6 can improve its aesthetic design.

[0075] Furthermore, the curved base portion 24d is positioned downstream of the wall panel 4 in the direction of water flow discharged from the spout 12.

[0076] As a result, the flexible hose 10 inserted into the guide member 13 begins to curve in the direction of housing the flexible hose 10 from downstream of the wall panel 4. Therefore, the faucet device 6 can reduce the front-to-back space required in the wall panel 4 to accommodate the curved flexible hose 10, and thus the thickness of the wall panel 4 can be reduced.

[0077] Further, an insertion path 24 into which the flexible hose 10 is inserted is formed in the guide member 13. The cross-sectional area of ​​the second insertion path 24b upstream of the curved base end 24d is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first insertion path 24a downstream of the curved base end 24d.

[0078] This allows the water faucet device 6 to bend the flexible hose 10 in the second insertion passage 24b upstream of the curved base end 24d, and store the flexible hose 10 in the wall panel 4. Furthermore, when inserting the flexible hose 10 from the wall panel 4 into the guide member 13, the worker can easily insert the flexible hose 10 into the second insertion passage 24b upstream of the curved base end 24d.

[0079] Furthermore, the second insertion passage 24b upstream of the curved base end 24d is formed to widen in the direction of housing the flexible hose 10.

[0080] This allows the faucet device 6 to insert the flexible hose 10 into the wall panel 4 along the second insertion path 24b upstream of the curved base end 24d. The faucet device 6 can reduce the sliding resistance applied to the flexible hose 10 when the spout 12 is pulled out of the wall panel 4 and when the spout 12 is pushed back toward the wall panel 4. In other words, the faucet device 6 can move the flexible hose 10 smoothly.

[0081] Furthermore, the second insertion passage 24b upstream of the curved base end 24d has a curved surface 24c that follows the curvature of the flexible hose 10.

[0082] This allows the faucet device 6 to slide the flexible hose 10 along the curved surface 24c. Therefore, the faucet device 6 can reduce the sliding resistance applied to the flexible hose 10 when the spout 12 is pulled out from the wall panel 4 and when the spout 12 is pushed back toward the wall panel 4. In other words, the faucet device 6 allows the flexible hose 10 to move smoothly along the curved surface 24c.

[0083] Furthermore, the faucet device 6 includes a hose guide 11 that guides the sliding of the flexible hose 10 housed in the wall panel 4.

[0084] As a result, the faucet device 6 can prevent the flexible hose 10 housed in the wall panel 4 from coming into contact with components other than the hose guide 11 when the flexible hose 10 moves within the wall panel 4. As a result, the faucet device 6 can reduce the sliding resistance applied to the flexible hose 10. In other words, the faucet device 6 can move the flexible hose 10 smoothly.

[0085] Furthermore, the hose guide 11 is configured to cover the flexible hose 10.

[0086] As a result, the faucet device 6 can use the hose guide 11 to guide the entire circumference of the flexible hose 10 housed in the wall panel 4. Therefore, when the flexible hose 10 housed in the wall panel 4 moves within the wall panel 4, the faucet device 6 can prevent the flexible hose 10 from coming into contact with components other than the hose guide 11. Therefore, when the flexible hose 10 housed in the wall panel 4 moves within the wall panel 4, the faucet device 6 can reduce the sliding resistance applied to the flexible hose 10. In other words, the faucet device 6 can move the flexible hose 10 smoothly.

[0087] Furthermore, the guide member 13 is provided with a rib 27 in the second insertion passage 24b upstream of the curved base end 24d, which is capable of guiding the flexible hose 10.

[0088] As a result, the faucet device 6 can reduce the sliding resistance applied to the flexible hose 10 in the second insertion path 24b upstream of the curved base end 24d. The faucet device 6 can prevent the flexible hose 10 from bending in a direction different from the direction in which the flexible hose 10 is stored when the spout 12 is pushed back after being pulled out of the wall panel 4. Therefore, the faucet device 6 can easily store the flexible hose 10 in the wall panel 4. Furthermore, the faucet device 6 can improve the strength of the guide member 13 by providing ribs 27 on the guide member 13.

[0089] For example, retaining rings can be inserted from the outside inward to secure external and connecting components. However, in this case, the length of the retaining ring must be considered, and the size of the spout in the plane perpendicular to the direction of water flow (hereinafter simply referred to as "spout size") will increase. Also, if the spout size is reduced while considering the length of the retaining ring, for example, the flexible hose becomes thinner, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path of the flexible hose decreases, which may prevent the water discharged from the spout from being discharged in the desired manner.

[0090] In contrast, the faucet device 6 includes a spout 12 that can be pulled out from the wall panel 4 and a flexible hose 10 that connects the spout 12 to the water supply pipe 14. The spout 12 includes a cylindrical exterior member 30, a connecting member 31 that is connected to the front end of the flexible hose 10 inserted into the exterior member 30, and an engaging member 32 that is housed in the exterior member 30 upstream of the connecting member 31 in the direction of water flow from the spout 12 and is provided between the exterior member 30 and the flexible hose 10. The engaging member 32 includes a first engaging portion 40 that engages with the exterior member 30 and a second engaging portion 41 that engages with the connecting member 31 at a location different from the first engaging portion 40.

[0091] As a result, the faucet device 6 can reduce the thickness required to provide each engagement part by providing the first engagement part 40 that engages with the exterior member 30 and the second engagement part 41 that engages with the connecting member 31 that connects to the flexible hose 10 in different locations. Therefore, the size of the spout 12 of the faucet device 6 can be reduced. Furthermore, by reducing the size of the spout 12 of the faucet device 6, the aesthetic design can be improved. In addition, the faucet device 6 can reduce the size of the spout 12 without, for example, making the flexible hose 10 thinner. Therefore, the faucet device 6 can dispense water from the spout 12 in the desired state.

[0092] Furthermore, the first engaging portion 40 engages with the exterior member 30 by a snap fit.

[0093] As a result, the faucet device 6 can reduce the thickness of the area where the engaging member 32 and the exterior member 30 engage, while still engaging the engaging member 32 and the exterior member 30. Therefore, the size of the spout 12 of the faucet device 6 can be reduced. Furthermore, the faucet device 6 can reduce the size of the spout 12 while suppressing, for example, the thinning of the flexible hose 10. In addition, it becomes easier for workers to release the engagement between the engaging member 32 and the exterior member 30, making it easier to disassemble the faucet device 6. Therefore, workers can easily perform maintenance on the faucet device 6.

[0094] Furthermore, the second engaging portion 41 abuts against the connecting member 31 in the direction of water flow.

[0095] As a result, the faucet device 6 can reduce the thickness of the area where the engaging member 32 and the connecting member 31 engage, while still engaging the engaging member 32 and the connecting member 31. Therefore, the size of the spout 12 of the faucet device 6 can be reduced. Furthermore, the faucet device 6 can reduce the size of the spout 12 while suppressing, for example, the thinning of the flexible hose 10. In addition, since the second engaging portion 41 abuts the connecting member 31 in the direction of water flow, if the engagement between the engaging member 32 and the exterior member 30 is released, the engagement between the engaging member 32 and the connecting member 31 can be released, for example, by moving the engaging member 32 upstream. Therefore, it becomes easier for workers to disassemble the faucet device 6 and perform maintenance on the faucet device 6.

[0096] The spout 12 is housed in the exterior member 30 and includes a water-spouting member 34 that spouts water, and a stopper 35 that is located downstream of the water-spouting member 34 in the direction of water flow and abuts against the water-spouting member 34. A groove 30b is formed in the inner wall of the exterior member 30 along the circumferential direction. The stopper 35 is fitted into the groove 30b.

[0097] As a result, the faucet device 6 can prevent the water discharge member 34, which is housed in the spout 12, from coming out of the spout 12 by the stopper 35. Furthermore, by fitting the stopper 35 into a groove 30b provided in the inner wall of the exterior member 30, the amount of the stopper 35 protruding inward from the spout 12 can be reduced. Therefore, for example, when the faucet device 6 is viewed from the direction of water discharge, the stopper 35 can be made less conspicuous. In addition, the faucet device 6 can prevent the movement of the water discharge member 34 without, for example, inserting it from the outside to the inside of the exterior member 30 with a screw or the like. Therefore, the size of the spout 12 can be reduced in the faucet device 6.

[0098] The groove 30b also has a notch 30c on the downstream side in the direction of water flow.

[0099] This allows users to remove the stopper 35 from the groove 30b via the notch 30c. For example, a worker can remove the stopper 35 from the groove 30b by inserting a thin pin into the notch 30c. Therefore, workers can easily perform maintenance on the faucet device 6.

[0100] In the modified faucet device 6, the water discharge member 34 may be provided with an elastically deformable protrusion that protrudes outward from the front end side of the water discharge member 34, and the protrusion may be fitted into the groove portion 30b of the appearance member 30, thereby integrating the water discharge member 34 and the appearance member 30.

[0101] <Additional Notes> (1) A spout that can be pulled out from the faucet mounting part, a flexible hose connecting the spout to a water supply source; Equipped with The spout is A cylindrical exterior member; a connecting member connected to a tip end of the flexible hose inserted into the exterior member; an engaging member that is accommodated in the exterior member upstream of the connecting member in the flow direction of water discharged from the spout and is provided between the exterior member and the flexible hose; Equipped with The engaging member is a first engagement portion that engages with the exterior member; a second engagement portion that engages with the connecting member at a location different from the first engagement portion; and A faucet device comprising: (2) The faucet device according to (1), wherein the first engagement portion engages with the exterior component by snap-fitting. (3) The faucet device according to (1) or (2), wherein the second engagement portion abuts against the connecting member in the direction of the water flow. (4) The spout is a water discharge member housed in the exterior member and configured to discharge water; a stopper that is provided downstream of the water discharge member in the water flow direction and that abuts against the water discharge member; Equipped with a groove portion is formed in the inner wall of the exterior member along the circumferential direction, The water faucet device according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein the stopper is fitted into the groove. (5) The faucet device described in (4), wherein the groove portion has a notch on the downstream side in the direction of water flow.

[0102] Further advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 1 bathroom vanity 4 Wall panel (faucet mounting area) 6. Faucet equipment 10 Flexible hose 11 Hose Guide 12 spout 13 Guide member 14 Water supply pipe (water source) 24 Insertion Path 24a First insertion path 24b Second insertion path 24c curved surface 24d curved base end 25 Spout support 26 Enlarged section 27 Ribs 30 Exterior components 30a Engagement hole 30b Groove 30c Notch 31 Connecting member 32 Engagement member 33 Joint members 34 Water outlet member 35 Stopper 37 First connecting member 38 Second connecting member 40 first engagement portion 41 second engagement portion 42 Arm 43 Claw

Claims

1. A spout that can be pulled out from the faucet mounting part, a flexible hose connecting the spout to a water supply source; Equipped with The spout is A cylindrical exterior member; a connecting member connected to a tip end of the flexible hose inserted into the exterior member; an engaging member that is accommodated in the exterior member upstream of the connecting member in the flow direction of water discharged from the spout and is provided between the exterior member and the flexible hose; Equipped with The engaging member is a first engaging portion that engages with the exterior member; a second engaging portion that engages with the connecting member at a location different from the first engaging portion; A faucet device comprising:

2. The water faucet device according to claim 1 , wherein the first engagement portion engages with the exterior component by snap-fitting.

3. The water faucet device according to claim 1 , wherein the second engagement portion abuts against the connecting member in the water flow direction.

4. The spout is a water discharge member housed in the exterior member and configured to discharge water; a stopper that is provided downstream of the water discharge member in the water flow direction and that abuts against the water discharge member; Equipped with a groove portion is formed in the inner wall of the exterior member along the circumferential direction, The water faucet device according to claim 1 , wherein the stopper is fitted into the groove.

5. The water faucet device according to claim 4 , wherein the groove portion has a notch on the downstream side in the direction of water flow.

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