Water leak detection method

Abstract

Efficiently and accurately locate water leaks. [Solution] The method includes: a first injection step of injecting fluorescent liquids having mutually different fluorescent colors at each inlet into the piping arranged in the building via two or more inlets of the piping; a spraying step of spraying a fluorescent liquid having a fluorescent color different from any of the fluorescent colors of the fluorescent liquids injected into the piping from the two or more inlets, and also different from the fluorescent color of a mixed liquid obtained by mixing at least a portion of the fluorescent liquids injected into the piping from the two or more inlets, at a selected location in the building; and a determination step in which, if fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak is found at any location in the building, a determination is made to determine whether a water leak hole exists in at least some of the partial pipes among a plurality of partial pipes constituting the piping, based on the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak, and to further determine whether a water leak path exists from the selected location to the location where the fluorescent color originating from the water leak was found.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present invention relates to a water leakage inspection method.

Background Art

[0002] The water supply or drainage pipes installed in a building may develop leakage holes due to aging or the like. In such a case, the water leaking from the leakage hole may reach the floor of the building body below the pipe, the ceiling of the building body on the lower floor, the ceiling or wall of the room, etc., and the damage may be significant. Also, if there are cracks in the veranda or bathroom floor of the building, the water that has entered the building through the cracked part may reach the floor of the building body, the ceiling of the building body on the lower floor, the ceiling or wall of the room, etc., and the damage may be significant.

[0003] The construction worker who has received a notice from the resident repairs the leakage hole or crack, but before that, it is necessary to perform a water stop treatment and a water drainage treatment on the pipe and then identify the leakage location. The leakage location may be a leakage hole that has occurred in the pipe, or may be a cracked part that has occurred in the veranda or bathroom floor.

[0004] However, the pipe is installed in a narrow, dark space between the floor of the building body and the floor of the room, and there are obstacles. Also, since the leakage hole is small, it is difficult for the construction worker to find the leakage hole by visually inspecting the pipe. Also, it may be difficult to even determine whether the leakage location is a leakage hole that has occurred in the pipe or a cracked part that has occurred in the veranda or bathroom floor.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] Patent Document 1 discloses a method for inspecting leaks in buildings using multiple types of luminescence testing liquids with mutually different luminescence colors. This method allows for the identification of the correspondence between defective areas (points of rainwater intrusion) and leachate points based on the luminescence color. Furthermore, this method allows for the identification of a convergence of intrusion paths if leachate of the luminescence testing liquid is detected from only one location and its luminescence color is a mixture of colors. However, with the method disclosed in Patent Document 1, if liquid leaking from a leak hole in a pipe is found at the leachate point, it is difficult to determine which leak hole in the pipe the liquid leaked from.

[0007] This invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a water leak inspection method that can efficiently and accurately locate the location of a water leak. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The present invention provides a water leak inspection method comprising: a first injection step of injecting fluorescent liquids having mutually different fluorescent colors at each inlet into the piping arranged in a building via two or more inlets of the piping; a spraying step of spraying a fluorescent liquid having a fluorescent color different from any of the fluorescent colors of the fluorescent liquids injected into the piping from the two or more inlets, and also different from the fluorescent color of a mixed liquid obtained by mixing at least a portion of the fluorescent liquids injected into the piping from the two or more inlets, at a selected location in the building; and a determination step in which, if a fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak is found at any location in the building, a determination is made to determine whether a water leak hole exists in at least some of the partial pipes among a plurality of partial pipes constituting the piping based on the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak, and further to determine whether a water leak path exists from the selected location to the location where the fluorescent color originating from the water leak was found.

[0009] Furthermore, the present invention provides a water leak inspection method comprising: a first injection step of injecting a fluorescent liquid having a fluorescent color into a pipe through one of two or more inlets of the pipe arranged in a building; a spraying step of spraying a fluorescent liquid having a fluorescent color that is mutually different between the two or more selected locations in the building and is also different from the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid injected into the pipe; and a determination step of, if a fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak is found at any location in the building, determining whether a water leak hole exists in at least some of the multiple partial pipes constituting the pipe based on the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak, and further determining whether a water leak path exists from any of the two or more selected locations to the location where the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak was found.

[0010] Furthermore, the present invention provides a water leak inspection method comprising: a spraying step of spraying a fluorescent liquid having different fluorescent colors between two or more selected locations on the building; and a determination step of determining, if a fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak is found at any location on the building, whether or not a water leak path exists from one or more of the two or more selected locations to the location where the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak was found, based on the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, the location of a water leak can be efficiently and accurately located. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] (a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of a house in which a water leak inspection method according to the first embodiment of the present invention is implemented, and (b) is a schematic perspective view showing the piping system installed in that house. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram illustrating a water leak inspection method according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3]This figure shows a legend illustrating the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in the water leak inspection method according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a figure (1 / 4) showing the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in the water leak inspection method according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is Figure (2 / 4) showing the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in the water leak inspection method according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] Figure (3 / 4) shows the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in the water leak inspection method according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] Figure (4 / 4) shows the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in the water leak inspection method according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart (1 / 2) illustrating a water leak inspection method according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart (2 / 2) illustrating a water leak inspection method according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram (1 / 2) illustrating a water leak inspection method according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a schematic diagram (2 / 2) illustrating a water leak inspection method according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This figure shows a legend illustrating the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in the water leak inspection method according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] This is a figure (1 / 4) showing the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in a water leak inspection method according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] Figure (2 / 4) shows the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in the water leak inspection method according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15]It is a diagram (3 / 4) showing the correspondence between the water leakage location and the fluorescence color of the fluorescent liquid detected in the water leakage inspection method according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] It is a diagram (4 / 4) showing the correspondence between the water leakage location and the fluorescence color of the fluorescent liquid detected in the water leakage inspection method according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] It is a flowchart (1 / 2) for explaining the water leakage inspection method according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] It is a flowchart (2 / 2) for explaining the water leakage inspection method according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] (a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of a house where the water leakage inspection method according to the third embodiment of the present invention is implemented, and (b) is a schematic perspective view showing the piping system installed in the house. [Figure 20] It is a schematic diagram (1 / 2) for explaining the water leakage inspection method according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] It is a schematic diagram (2 / 2) for explaining the water leakage inspection method according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 22] It is a diagram showing a legend of the correspondence between the water leakage location and the fluorescence color of the fluorescent liquid detected in the water leakage inspection method according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23] It is a diagram (1 / 8) showing the correspondence between the water leakage location and the fluorescence color of the fluorescent liquid detected in the water leakage inspection method according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 24] It is a diagram (2 / 8) showing the correspondence between the water leakage location and the fluorescence color of the fluorescent liquid detected in the water leakage inspection method according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 25] It is a diagram (3 / 8) showing the correspondence between the water leakage location and the fluorescence color of the fluorescent liquid detected in the water leakage inspection method according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 26] It is a diagram (4 / 8) showing the correspondence between the water leakage location and the fluorescence color of the fluorescent liquid detected in the water leakage inspection method according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 27]Figure (5 / 8) shows the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in a water leak inspection method according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 28] Figure (6 / 8) shows the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in a water leak inspection method according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 29] Figure (7 / 8) shows the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in a water leak inspection method according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 30] Figure (8 / 8) shows the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in a water leak inspection method according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 31] This is a flowchart (1 / 2) illustrating a water leak inspection method according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 32] This is a flowchart (2 / 2) illustrating a water leak inspection method according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 33] This is a schematic diagram (1 / 2) illustrating a water leak inspection method according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 34] This is a schematic diagram (2 / 2) illustrating a water leak inspection method according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 35] (a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of a house in which a water leak inspection method according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention is implemented, and (b) is a schematic perspective view showing the piping system installed in that house. [Figure 36] This figure shows a legend illustrating the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in the water leak inspection method according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 37] This is a figure (1 / 8) showing the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in the water leak inspection method according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 38] Figure (2 / 8) shows the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in the water leak inspection method according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 39]Figure (3 / 8) shows the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in the water leak inspection method according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 40] Figure (4 / 8) shows the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in the water leak inspection method according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 41] Figure (5 / 8) shows the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in the water leak inspection method according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 42] Figure (6 / 8) shows the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in the water leak inspection method according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 43] Figure (7 / 8) shows the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in the water leak inspection method according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 44] Figure (8 / 8) shows the correspondence between the location of a water leak and the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid used to detect it in the water leak inspection method according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 45] This is a flowchart illustrating a water leak inspection method according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0014] [First Embodiment]

[0015] Figure 1(a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of a building in which the piping and washing area to be inspected for water leaks are arranged in the first embodiment. The building is assumed to be, for example, a high-rise or low-to-medium-rise apartment building, but it may also be a detached house. The part indicated by reference numeral 101 corresponds to a column or wall in the building frame. The part indicated by reference numeral 102 corresponds to a floor in the building frame. Reference numeral 102a indicates the floor of the building frame, and reference numeral 102b indicates the ceiling of the building frame. Reference numeral 104 indicates the wall of room 103, reference numeral 105 indicates the floor of the room, and reference numeral 106 indicates the ceiling of the room.

[0016] Figure 1(b) is a conceptual perspective view showing the piping set and other components installed in the area indicated by the dashed frame 107 in Figure 1(a) (the area between the structural floor 102a and the room floor 105).

[0017] The sewage piping set includes a standard sewage piping set 111 and a wastewater piping set 112. Piping set 111 is designed to handle drainage from kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, washroom sinks, and washing machine sinks. Piping set 112 is designed to handle wastewater from toilet sinks.

[0018] Referring to Figures 1(b) and 2(a), the piping set 111 has a number of partial pipes S1 to S7. Drainage flows into partial pipe S1 through drain port E1. Drainage flows into partial pipe S2 through drain port E2. Drainage flows into partial pipe S4 through drain port E4. Drainage flows into partial pipe S6 through drain port E6.

[0019] Partial piping S1 and S2 merge into one partial piping S3 via a joint J3. Partial piping S3 and S4 merge into one partial piping S5 via a joint J5. Partial piping S5 and S6 merge into one partial piping S7 via a joint J7. The outlet of partial piping S7 communicates with piping 115 which extends vertically along a column or wall of the building structure.

[0020] Here, the joints J3, J5, and J7 may be independent of the partial piping, or they may be part of any of the partial piping. For example, partial piping S1, S3, S5, and S7 may constitute a single partial piping, and partial piping S2, S4, and S6 may be connected to the side of this single piping. Even in such a case, conceptually, partial piping S1, S3, S5, and S7 still exist.

[0021] Sewage flows into pipe S8, which is included in the piping set 112, via drain port E8. Pipe S8 is in communication with pipe 116, which extends vertically along the columns or walls of the building structure.

[0022] Drain E1 receives, for example, wastewater from the kitchen sink. Drain E2 receives, for example, wastewater from the bathroom sink. Drain E3 receives, for example, wastewater from the washing machine. Although not shown in Figure 1(b), drain E6 receives wastewater from the bathtub 113 and the shower area 114 of the bathroom.

[0023] Figures 1(a) and 1(b) show how a water leak has occurred in piping set 111 or piping set 112, or a crack has occurred in the washing area 114, resulting in water puddles 121, 122, 123, or 124 on the floor 102a of the building structure, the ceiling 102b of the building structure on the floor below, the ceiling 106 of the room on the floor below, or the ceiling and walls of the room on the floor below. Based on the location of the water puddles 121, 122, 123, or 124, it is difficult to determine whether the water leak is in piping set 111, a crack has occurred in the washing area 114, or piping set 112. Furthermore, if a water leak is occurring in piping set 111, it is difficult to determine which part of piping set 111 has the water leak based on the location of the water puddles 121, 122, 123, or 124. In other words, it is difficult to determine which partial piping has a leak based on the location of liquid puddles 121, 122, 123, or 124. In the following explanation, when referring to liquid puddle 121, it refers to liquid puddles 121, 122, 123, or 124, or any liquid puddle caused by a water leak, including liquid puddles that are difficult to detect. Also, when referring to liquid puddle 121, although this differs from the general definition, in this invention it also includes flowing fluorescent liquid.

[0024] Upon receiving a report from a resident or other person who has discovered a water leak, the contractor will conduct a water leak inspection before repairing the leak. In the water leak inspection, the contractor will inspect pipe set 111, pipe set 112, and the washing area 114 to identify the source of the water leak. However, this may be performed by someone other than the contractor. For example, it may be performed by someone specializing in inspections.

[0025] In the water leak inspection method according to this embodiment, the location of the water leak is identified using multiple types of fluorescent liquids having different fluorescent colors.

[0026] The outline of the water leak inspection method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 2(a) to 2(c).

[0027] Referring to Figure 2(a), during the first inspection, the contractor injects a red fluorescent liquid into the piping through drain outlet E1. The contractor also injects a green fluorescent liquid into the piping through drain outlet E2.

[0028] As a result, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color flows through partial piping S1. Also, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color flows through partial piping S2. Furthermore, since the fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color and the fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color mix at the joint J3, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color flows through partial piping S3, S5, and S7.

[0029] Furthermore, the workers spray a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color onto the washing area 114. At this point, the drain outlet E6 is blocked to prevent the fluorescent liquid sprayed onto the washing area 114 from flowing into the drain outlet E6.

[0030] The fluorescent liquid does not flow through partial piping S4 and S6.

[0031] Therefore, if a leak hole H1 exists in the partial piping S1, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color will leak out from the leak hole H1.

[0032] If a leak hole H2 exists in the partial piping S2, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color will leak out from the leak hole H2.

[0033] If a leak hole H3 exists in the partial piping S3, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H3.

[0034] If a leak hole H5 exists in the partial piping S5, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H5.

[0035] If a leak hole H7 exists in the partial piping S7, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H7.

[0036] If a crack H9 exists in the washing area 114, a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color will flow into the house through the crack H9.

[0037] When a fluorescent solution with red fluorescence and a fluorescent solution with blue fluorescence are mixed, a fluorescent solution with magenta (M) fluorescence is produced.

[0038] When a fluorescent solution with green fluorescence and a fluorescent solution with blue fluorescence are mixed, a fluorescent solution with cyan (C) fluorescence is produced.

[0039] When a fluorescent solution with yellow fluorescence and a fluorescent solution with blue fluorescence are mixed, a fluorescent solution with white (W) fluorescence is produced.

[0040] Therefore, if a reservoir 121 of fluorescent liquid having a red fluorescent color is found, it is determined that a water leak hole H1 exists in the partial piping S1.

[0041] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 with a green fluorescent color is found, it is determined that a water leak hole H2 exists in the partial piping S2.

[0042] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 with a yellow fluorescent color is found, it is determined that a leak hole Hi (i=2, 5, or 7) exists in one of the partial pipes S2, S5, or S7.

[0043] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 with a blue fluorescent color is found, it is determined that a crack H9 exists in the washing area 114.

[0044] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 with a magenta fluorescent color is found, it is determined that there is a leak hole H1 in the partial piping S1 and a crack H9 in the washing area 114.

[0045] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 with a cyan fluorescent color is found, it is determined that there is a leak hole H2 in the partial piping S2 and a crack H9 in the washing area 114.

[0046] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 having a white fluorescent color is found, it is determined that there is a leak hole Hi (i=2, 5, or 7) in one of the partial pipes S2, S5, and S7, and that there is a crack H9 in the washing area 114.

[0047] If a leak hole H1 or H2 is detected, the inspection will be terminated.

[0048] If the first inspection determines that a leak hole Hi (i=2, 5, or 7) exists in any of the partial piping sections S2, S5, or S7, a second inspection of type 1 will be conducted to narrow down which partial piping section has the leak hole.

[0049] Referring to Figure 2(b), in the second inspection of Type 1, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color is injected into the piping from drain outlet E2. In addition, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color is injected into the piping from drain outlet E4. Furthermore, a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color is injected into the piping from drain outlet E6.

[0050] As a result, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color flows through partial piping S2 and S3. In addition, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color flows through partial piping S4. Furthermore, since the fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color and the fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color mix at the joint J5, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color flows through partial piping S5.

[0051] Furthermore, a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color flows through partial piping S6. Additionally, at the joint J7, the fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color and the fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color mix, so a fluorescent liquid with a white fluorescent color flows through partial piping S7.

[0052] Therefore, if a leak hole H3 exists in the partial piping S3, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color will leak out from the leak hole H3. It should be noted that the first inspection confirmed that there is no leak hole H2 in the partial piping S2 through which the fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color flows during the second inspection of the first type.

[0053] If a leak hole H5 exists in the partial piping S5, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H5.

[0054] If a leak hole H7 exists in the partial piping S7, a fluorescent liquid with a white fluorescent color will leak out from the leak hole H7.

[0055] In this way, the second inspection of type 1 allows us to narrow down the partial piping sections S3, S5, and S7 that have leak holes.

[0056] If it is determined that no leak holes exist in any of the partial piping sections S1, S3, S5, and S7, then there is a possibility that a leak hole Hi (i=4 or 6) exists in either of the partial piping sections S4 or S6, and therefore a second-stage inspection of type 2 will be conducted on these partial piping sections.

[0057] Referring to Figure 2(c), in the second stage of the Type 2 inspection, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color is injected into the piping from drain outlet E4. In addition, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color is injected into the piping from drain outlet E6.

[0058] As a result, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color flows through partial piping S4 and S5. In addition, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color flows through partial piping S6. Furthermore, since the fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color and the fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color mix at the joint J7, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color flows through partial piping S7.

[0059] Therefore, if a leak hole H4 exists in the partial piping S4, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color will leak out from the leak hole H4. It should be noted that the first inspection confirmed that there is no leak hole H5 in the partial piping S5 through which the fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color flows during the second inspection of the first type.

[0060] If a leak hole H6 exists in the partial piping S6, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H6.

[0061] In this way, the second stage inspection of type 2 can determine whether or not there is a water leak in the partial piping S4 or S6.

[0062] Next, we will explain under what circumstances a reservoir 121 containing fluorescent liquid with what fluorescent color can be detected.

[0063] By reading Figures 3(a) and 3(b) together, it is possible to determine which partial piping has a leak hole and which color of fluorescent liquid can be detected, assuming there are no cracks in the washing area 114. Furthermore, it is possible to determine which partial piping has a leak hole and which color of fluorescent liquid can be detected, assuming there are cracks in the washing area 114. In addition, it is possible to determine which color of fluorescent liquid can be detected, assuming there are cracks in the washing area 114 and no leak holes in any of the partial piping.

[0064] Figures 4 to 7 cover all combinations of the presence or absence of leaks in each section of piping and the presence or absence of cracks in the washing area 114 during the first inspection, using the notation method shown in Figures 3(a) and 3(b). However, it is assumed that the maximum number of leaks in the piping is 1. Furthermore, it is assumed that cracks may exist in the washing area 114 regardless of the presence or absence of leaks in each section of piping.

[0065] Figure 4(a) shows that when there are no leak holes or cracks, no liquid accumulation due to water leakage is detected.

[0066] Figure 4(b) shows that if there are no leaks but there are cracks, a pool of fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color may be found.

[0067] Figure 4(c) shows that if a leak hole is present in partial piping S1 but no cracks are present, a pool of fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color may be found.

[0068] Figure 4(d) shows that if a leak hole exists in the partial piping S2 but there are no cracks, a pool of fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color may be found.

[0069] Figure 4(d) shows that if a leak is present in partial piping S3, S5, or S7, but no cracks are present, a pool of fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color may be found. Furthermore, the "2nd" indicates that a Type 1 secondary inspection is required.

[0070] Figure 5(a) shows that if a leak hole and cracks exist in the partial piping S1, a pool of fluorescent liquid with red fluorescence and a pool of fluorescent liquid with blue fluorescence may be found. The explanations for Figures 5(b) and 5(c) are omitted.

[0071] Figure 5(d) shows that if a leak hole and cracks exist in the partial piping S1, puddles of fluorescent liquid with red fluorescence, puddles of fluorescent liquid with blue fluorescence, and puddles of fluorescent liquid with magenta fluorescence may be found. The explanations for Figures 5(e) and 5(f) are omitted.

[0072] Figure 6(a) shows that if a leak hole and cracks exist in the partial piping S1, a pool of blue fluorescent liquid and a pool of magenta fluorescent liquid will be found, but a pool of red fluorescent liquid may not be found. The explanations for Figures 6(b) and 6(c) are omitted.

[0073] Figure 6(d) shows that if a leak hole and cracks exist in the partial piping S1, a pool of fluorescent liquid with red fluorescence and a pool of fluorescent liquid with magenta fluorescence may be found, but a pool of fluorescent liquid with blue fluorescence may not be found. The explanations for Figures 6(e) and 6(f) are omitted.

[0074] Figure 7(a) shows that if a leak hole and cracks exist in the partial piping S1, a pool of magenta fluorescent liquid will be found, but pools of red fluorescent liquid and blue fluorescent liquid may not be found. The explanations for Figures 7(b) and 7(c) are omitted.

[0075] Next, the water leak inspection method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 8 and 9.

[0076] In S801, it is determined whether or not a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color has been detected. Here, "detecting a fluorescent liquid" means detecting a pool of the fluorescent liquid. It also includes detecting a fluorescent liquid that is flowing due to a water leak.

[0077] If the result in S801 is NO, then in S803, it is determined whether a fluorescent solution containing a mixture of blue fluorescence and another fluorescent color (specifically, magenta, cyan, or white) has been found. Here, a fluorescent solution containing a mixture of blue fluorescence and another fluorescent color is a fluorescent solution made by mixing blue fluorescence with the other color fluorescence.

[0078] If the answer in S801 is YES, and if the answer in S801 is NO and the answer in S803 is YES, then in S805, it is determined that a crack H9 exists in the washing area 114.

[0079] Next, in S807, it is determined whether or not a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color has been detected.

[0080] If the result in S807 is NO, then in S809, it is determined whether a fluorescent solution containing a mixture of red fluorescence and another fluorescent color (specifically magenta) has been found.

[0081] If the answer in S807 is YES, and if the answer in S807 is NO and the answer in S809 is YES, then in S811, it is determined that a water leak exists in the partial piping S1.

[0082] Next, in S813, it is determined whether or not a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color has been found.

[0083] If NO is found in S813, then in S815, it is determined whether a fluorescent solution containing a mixture of green fluorescence and another fluorescent color (specifically cyan) has been found.

[0084] If the answer in S813 is YES, and if the answer in S813 is NO and the answer in S815 is YES, then in S817, it is determined that a water leak exists in the partial piping S2.

[0085] Next, in S819, it is determined whether or not a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color was found.

[0086] If NO is found in S819, then in S821, it is determined whether a fluorescent solution having a mixture of yellow fluorescence and other fluorescence colors has been found.

[0087] If the answer to S819 is YES, and if the answer to S819 is NO and the answer to S821 is YES, then in S823, it is determined that a water leak exists in the partial piping S3, S5, or S7.

[0088] Next, in S825, it is determined whether a leak hole exists in the partial piping S1 or S2. If so (YES in S825), steps S827 to S831 are bypassed, and the process proceeds to S833. In other words, the second inspection is bypassed (not performed).

[0089] If it is determined in S825 that there are no leak holes in the partial piping S1 or S2 (NO in S825), the process proceeds to S827.

[0090] In S827, confirm whether it was determined that a water leak hole exists in the partial piping S3, S5, or S7.

[0091] If it is determined in S827 that a leak hole exists in partial piping S3, S5, or S7 (YES in S827), then in S829, the leak hole is investigated in which of partial piping S3, S5, or S7 is present. In other words, a Type 1 secondary inspection is performed. After performing S829, the process proceeds to S833.

[0092] If it is confirmed in S827 that no leaks were found in partial piping S3, S5, or S7 (NO in S827), then in S831, check whether a leak exists in either partial piping S4 or S6. In other words, perform a second-stage inspection of type 2. After performing S831, proceed to S833.

[0093] In S833, it is determined whether a crack H9 in the washing area 114 has been found. If the answer in S833 is YES, the process is terminated.

[0094] If the answer in S833 is NO, then in S835, it is determined whether a leak in the piping has been found. If the answer in S835 is YES, the process ends.

[0095] If the answer to S837 is NO, then investigate other causes of water leaks in S837.

[0096] [Second Embodiment]

[0097] The second embodiment is almost identical to the first embodiment, but the order in which the partial piping is examined is different.

[0098] The outline of the water leak inspection method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 11(a) to 11(c).

[0099] Referring to Figure 11(a), during the first inspection, the contractor injects a red fluorescent liquid into the piping through drain outlet E4. The contractor also injects a green fluorescent liquid into the piping through drain outlet E6.

[0100] As a result, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color flows through partial piping S4 and S5. In addition, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color flows through partial piping S6. Furthermore, since the fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color and the fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color mix at the joint J7, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color flows through partial piping S7.

[0101] Furthermore, the workers spray a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color onto the washing area 114. At this point, the drain outlet E6 is blocked to prevent the fluorescent liquid sprayed onto the washing area 114 from flowing into the drain outlet E6.

[0102] The fluorescent liquid does not flow through partial piping S1, S2, and S3.

[0103] Therefore, if a leak hole H4 exists in the partial piping S4, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color will leak out from the leak hole H1.

[0104] If a leak hole H5 exists in the partial piping S5, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H5.

[0105] If a leak hole H6 exists in the partial piping S6, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H6.

[0106] If a leak hole H7 exists in the partial piping S7, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color will leak out from the leak hole H5.

[0107] If a crack H9 exists in the washing area 114, a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color will flow into the house through the crack H9.

[0108] When a fluorescent solution with red fluorescence and a fluorescent solution with blue fluorescence are mixed, a fluorescent solution with magenta (M) fluorescence is produced.

[0109] When a fluorescent solution with green fluorescence and a fluorescent solution with blue fluorescence are mixed, a fluorescent solution with cyan (C) fluorescence is produced.

[0110] When a fluorescent solution with yellow fluorescence and a fluorescent solution with blue fluorescence are mixed, a fluorescent solution with white (W) fluorescence is produced.

[0111] Therefore, if a reservoir 121 of fluorescent liquid having a red fluorescent color is found, it is determined that a water leak hole Hi (i=4 or 5) exists in either the partial piping S4 or S5.

[0112] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 with a green fluorescent color is found, it is determined that a water leak hole H6 exists in the partial piping S6.

[0113] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 with a yellow fluorescent color is found, it is determined that a leak hole H7 exists in the partial piping S7.

[0114] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 with a blue fluorescent color is found, it is determined that a crack H9 exists in the washing area 114.

[0115] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 having a magenta fluorescent color is found, it is determined that there is a leak hole Hi (i=4 or 5) in either the partial piping S4 or S5, and that there is a crack H9 in the washing area 114.

[0116] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 with a cyan fluorescent color is found, it is determined that there is a leak hole H6 in the partial piping S6 and a crack H9 in the washing area 114.

[0117] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 with a white fluorescent color is found, it is determined that there is a leak hole H7 in the partial piping S7 and a crack H9 in the washing area 114.

[0118] If a leak hole H6 or H7 is detected, the inspection will be terminated.

[0119] If the first inspection determines that a leak hole Hi (i=4 or 5) exists in either partial piping S4 or S5, a second inspection of type 1 will be conducted to narrow down which partial piping contains the leak hole.

[0120] Referring to Figure 10(b), in the second inspection of Type 1, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color is injected into the piping from drain outlet E2. In addition, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color is injected into the piping from drain outlet E4.

[0121] As a result, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color flows through partial piping S2 and S3. In addition, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color flows through partial piping S4. Furthermore, since the fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color and the fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color mix at the joint J5, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color flows through partial piping S5 and S7.

[0122] Therefore, if a leak hole H4 exists in the partial piping S4, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color will leak out from the leak hole H4.

[0123] If a leak hole H5 exists in partial piping S5, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H5. It should be noted that the first inspection confirmed that there is no leak hole H7 in partial piping S7 through which the fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color flows during the second inspection of Type 1.

[0124] In this way, the second inspection of the first type allows us to narrow down the partial piping sections S4 and S5 that have leak holes.

[0125] If it is determined that no leak holes exist in any of the partial piping sections S4, S5, S6, and S7, then there is a possibility that a leak hole Hi (i=1, 2, or 3) exists in any of the partial piping sections S1, S2, and S3, and therefore a second-stage inspection of type 2 will be conducted on these partial piping sections.

[0126] Referring to Figure 10(c), in the second stage of the Type 2 inspection, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color is injected into the piping from drain outlet E1. In addition, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color is injected into the piping from drain outlet E2.

[0127] As a result, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color flows through partial piping S1. Also, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color flows through partial piping S2. Furthermore, since the fluorescent liquids with red and green fluorescent colors mix at the joint J3, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color flows through partial piping S3.

[0128] Therefore, if a leak hole H1 exists in the partial piping S1, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color will leak out from the leak hole H1.

[0129] If a leak hole H2 exists in the partial piping S2, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color will leak out from the leak hole H2.

[0130] If a leak hole H3 exists in partial piping S3, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H3. It should be noted that the first inspection confirmed that there are no leak holes H7 in partial piping S5 and S7, through which the fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color flows, during the second inspection of Type 2.

[0131] In this way, the second stage inspection of type 2 can determine whether or not there is a water leak in the partial piping S1, S2, or S3.

[0132] Next, we will explain under what circumstances a reservoir 121 containing fluorescent liquid with what fluorescent color can be detected.

[0133] In the first secondary inspection, a fluorescent liquid may be flowed as shown in Figure 11(a). While a detailed explanation is omitted, if a leak hole H4 exists in the partial piping S4, a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H4. If a leak hole H5 exists in the partial piping S5, a fluorescent liquid with a white fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H5.

[0134] In the second secondary inspection, a fluorescent liquid may be flowed as shown in Figure 11(c). While a detailed explanation is omitted, if a leak hole H1 exists in partial piping S1, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H1. If a leak hole H2 exists in partial piping S2, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H2. If a leak hole H3 exists in partial piping S3, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H3.

[0135] By reading Figures 12(a) and 12(b) together, it is possible to determine which partial piping has a leak hole and which color of fluorescent liquid can be detected, assuming there are no cracks in the washing area 114. Furthermore, it is possible to determine which partial piping has a leak hole and which color of fluorescent liquid can be detected, assuming there are cracks in the washing area 114. In addition, it is possible to determine which color of fluorescent liquid can be detected, assuming there are cracks in the washing area 114 and no leak holes in any of the partial piping.

[0136] Figures 13 to 16 cover all combinations of the presence or absence of leaks in each section of piping and the presence or absence of cracks in the washing area 114 during the first inspection, using the notation method shown in Figures 12(a) and 12(b). However, it is assumed that the maximum number of leaks in the piping is 1. Furthermore, it is assumed that cracks may exist in the washing area 114 regardless of the presence or absence of leaks in each section of piping.

[0137] Figures 13 to 16 cover all combinations of the presence or absence of leak holes in each section of piping and the presence or absence of cracks in the washing area 114, using the notation method shown in Figures 12(a) and 12(b). However, it is assumed that the maximum number of leak holes in the piping is 1. Furthermore, it is assumed that cracks may exist in the washing area 114 regardless of the presence or absence of leak holes in each section of piping.

[0138] Figure 13(a) shows that when there are no leak holes or cracks, no liquid accumulation due to water leakage is detected.

[0139] Figure 13(b) shows that if there are no leaks but there are cracks, a pool of fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color may be found.

[0140] Figure 13(c) shows that if a leak hole exists in either partial piping S4 or S5, but no cracks are present, a pool of fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color may be found. Furthermore, the "2nd" indicates that a Type 1 secondary inspection is required.

[0141] Figure 13(d) shows that if a leak hole is present in the partial piping S6 but no cracks are present, a pool of fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color may be found.

[0142] Figure 13(d) shows that if a leak hole is present in partial piping S7 but no cracks are present, a pool of fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color may be found.

[0143] Figure 14(a) shows that if a leak hole and crack exist in either partial piping S4 or S5, a pool of fluorescent liquid with red fluorescence and a pool of fluorescent liquid with blue fluorescence may be found. The explanations for Figures 14(b) and 14(c) are omitted.

[0144] Figure 14(d) shows that if a leak hole and crack exist in either partial piping S4 or S5, a pool of fluorescent liquid with red fluorescence, a pool of fluorescent liquid with blue fluorescence, and a pool of fluorescent liquid with magenta fluorescence may be found. The explanations for Figures 14(e) and 14(f) are omitted.

[0145] Figure 15(a) shows that if a leak hole and crack exist in either partial piping S4 or S5, a pool of blue fluorescent liquid and a pool of magenta fluorescent liquid will be found, but a pool of red fluorescent liquid may not be found. The explanations for Figures 15(b) and 15(c) are omitted.

[0146] Figure 15(d) shows that if a leak hole and crack exist in either partial piping S4 or S5, a pool of fluorescent liquid with red fluorescence and a pool of fluorescent liquid with magenta fluorescence will be found, but a pool of fluorescent liquid with blue fluorescence may not be found. The explanations for Figures 15(e) and 15(f) are omitted.

[0147] Figure 16(a) shows that if a leak hole and crack exist in either partial piping S4 or S5, a pool of magenta fluorescent liquid will be found, but pools of red fluorescent liquid and blue fluorescent liquid may not be found. The explanations for Figures 16(b) and 16(c) are omitted.

[0148] Next, the water leak inspection method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 17 and 18.

[0149] In S1701, it is determined whether or not a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color has been found. Here, "finding a fluorescent liquid" means finding a pool of the fluorescent liquid. It also includes finding a fluorescent liquid that is flowing due to a water leak.

[0150] If the result in S1701 is NO, then in S1703, it is determined whether a fluorescent solution containing a mixture of blue fluorescence and another fluorescent color (specifically magenta, cyan, or white) has been found. Here, a fluorescent solution containing a mixture of blue fluorescence and another fluorescent color is a fluorescent solution made by mixing blue fluorescence with the fluorescence of the other color.

[0151] If the answer in S1701 is YES, and if the answer in S1701 is NO and the answer in S1703 is YES, then in S1705, it is determined that a crack H9 exists in the washing area 114.

[0152] Next, in S1707, it is determined whether or not a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color was detected.

[0153] If the answer in S1707 is NO, then in S1709, it is determined whether a fluorescent solution containing a mixture of red fluorescence and another fluorescent color (specifically magenta) has been found.

[0154] If the answer to S1707 is YES, and if the answer to S1707 is NO and the answer to S1709 is YES, then in S1711, it is determined that a water leak exists in either the partial piping S4 or S5.

[0155] Next, in S1713, it is determined whether or not a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color has been found.

[0156] If NO is found in S1713, then in S1715, it is determined whether a fluorescent solution having a mixture of green fluorescence and another fluorescent color (specifically cyan) has been found.

[0157] If the answer to S1713 is YES, and if the answer to S1713 is NO and the answer to S1715 is YES, then in S1717, it is determined that a water leak exists in the partial piping S6.

[0158] Next, in S1719, it is determined whether or not a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color was found.

[0159] If the result in S1719 is NO, then in S1721, it is determined whether a fluorescent solution having a mixture of yellow fluorescence and another fluorescent color (specifically white) has been found.

[0160] If the answer to S1719 is YES, and if the answer to S1719 is NO and the answer to S1721 is YES, then in S1723, it is determined that a water leak exists in the partial piping S7.

[0161] Next, in S1725, it is determined whether a leak hole exists in the partial piping S6 or S7. If so (YES in S1725), steps S1727 to S1731 are bypassed, and the process proceeds to S1733. In other words, the second inspection is bypassed (not performed).

[0162] If it is determined in S1725 that there are no leak holes in the partial piping S6 or S7 (NO in S1725), the process proceeds to S1727.

[0163] In S1727, confirm whether it was determined that a water leak hole exists in the partial piping S4 or S5.

[0164] If it is confirmed in S1727 that a leak hole exists in either partial piping S4 or S5 (YES in S1727), then in S1729, it is checked to determine which of partial piping S4 or S5 has the leak hole. In other words, a Type 1 secondary inspection is performed. After performing S1729, the process proceeds to S1733.

[0165] If it is confirmed in S1727 that no leak hole is found in partial piping S4 or S5 (NO in S1727), then in S1731, check whether a leak hole exists in any of partial piping S1, S2, or S3. In other words, perform a second-stage inspection of type 2. After performing S1731, proceed to S1733.

[0166] In S1733, it is determined whether a crack H9 in the washing area 114 was found. If the answer in S1733 is YES, the process is terminated.

[0167] If the answer in S1733 is NO, then in S1735, it is determined whether a leak in the piping has been found. If the answer in S1735 is YES, the process ends.

[0168] If the answer to S1737 is NO, then investigate other causes of water leaks in S837.

[0169] [Third Embodiment]

[0170] Figure 19(a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of a building in a third embodiment in which the piping subject to water leak inspection, the washing area 114, and the veranda 1001 are arranged. Figure 19(b) is a conceptual perspective view showing the piping set and the like arranged in the area indicated by the dashed frame 107 in Figure 19(a) (the area between the structural floor 102a and the room floor 105).

[0171] In this embodiment, the piping 111, the washing area 114, and the veranda 1001 are the objects of inspection.

[0172] In the water leak inspection method according to this embodiment, the location of the water leak is identified using multiple types of fluorescent liquids having different fluorescent colors.

[0173] The outline of the water leak inspection method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 20, 21(a), and 20(b).

[0174] Referring to Figure 20(a), during the first inspection, the contractor injects a red fluorescent liquid into the piping from drain outlet E1. As a result, the red fluorescent liquid flows through partial piping sections S1, S3, S5, and S7.

[0175] Furthermore, the workers spray a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color onto the washing area 114. At this point, the drain outlet E6 is blocked to prevent the fluorescent liquid sprayed onto the washing area 114 from flowing into the drain outlet E6.

[0176] Furthermore, the workers spray a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color onto the balcony 1001. At this point, they block the drain outlet E11 to prevent the fluorescent liquid sprayed on the balcony 1001 from flowing into the drain outlet E11.

[0177] The fluorescent liquid does not flow through partial piping S2, S4, and S6.

[0178] Therefore, if a leak hole Hi (i=1, 3, 5, or 7) exists in any of the partial pipes S1, S3, S5, and S7, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color will leak out from the leak hole Hi.

[0179] If a crack H9 exists in the washing area 114, a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color will flow into the house through the crack H9.

[0180] If crack H10 exists on veranda 1001, a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color will flow into the house through crack H9.

[0181] When a fluorescent solution with red fluorescence and a fluorescent solution with blue fluorescence are mixed, a fluorescent solution with magenta (M) fluorescence is produced.

[0182] When a fluorescent solution with red fluorescence and a fluorescent solution with green fluorescence are mixed, a fluorescent solution with yellow fluorescence is produced.

[0183] When a fluorescent solution with blue fluorescence and a fluorescent solution with green fluorescence are mixed, a fluorescent solution with cyan fluorescence is produced.

[0184] When a fluorescent solution with red fluorescence, a fluorescent solution with blue fluorescence, and a fluorescent solution with green fluorescence are mixed, a fluorescent solution with white (W) fluorescence is produced.

[0185] Therefore, if a reservoir 121 of fluorescent liquid having a red fluorescent color is found, it is determined that a leak hole Hi (i=1, 3, 5, or 7) exists in any of the partial pipes S1, S3, S5, and S7.

[0186] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 with a blue fluorescent color is found, it is determined that a crack H9 exists in the washing area 114.

[0187] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 with a green fluorescent color is found, it is determined that a crack H10 exists in the veranda 1001.

[0188] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 having a magenta fluorescent color is found, it is determined that there is a leak hole Hi (i=1, 3, 5, or 7) in any of the partial pipes S1, S3, S5, and S7, and that there is a crack H9 in the washing area 114.

[0189] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 with a yellow fluorescent color is found, it is determined that there is a water leak hole Hi (i=1, 3, 5, or 7) in one of the partial pipes S1, S3, S5, and S7, and that there is a crack H10 in the veranda 1001.

[0190] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 having a cyan fluorescent color is found, it is determined that there is a crack H9 in the washing area 114 and a crack H10 in the veranda 1001.

[0191] If a pool of fluorescent liquid 121 having a white fluorescent color is found, it is determined that there is a water leak hole Hi (i=1, 3, 5, or 7) in any of the partial pipes S1, S3, S5, and S7, and that there is a crack H9 in the washing area 114, and that there is a crack H10 in the veranda 1001.

[0192] If the first inspection determines that a leak hole Hi (i=2, 5, or 7) exists in any of the partial piping sections S2, S5, or S7, a second inspection of type 1 will be conducted to narrow down which partial piping section has the leak hole.

[0193] Referring to Figure 21(a), in the second inspection of Type 1, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color is injected into the piping from drain outlet E2. In addition, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color is injected into the piping from drain outlet E4. Furthermore, a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color is injected into the piping from drain outlet E6.

[0194] As a result, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color flows through partial piping S2 and S3. In addition, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color flows through partial piping S4. Furthermore, since the fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color and the fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color mix at the joint J5, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color flows through partial piping S5.

[0195] Furthermore, a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color flows through partial piping S6. Additionally, at the joint J7, the fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color and the fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color mix, so a fluorescent liquid with a white fluorescent color flows through partial piping S7.

[0196] Therefore, if a leak hole H3 exists in partial piping S3, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H3. Note that in the second inspection of Type 1, it is assumed that there is no leak hole H2 in partial piping S2 through which the fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color flows. This is because it is assumed that there is at most one leak hole, and the leak hole can be narrowed down to be in one of partial piping S1, S3, S5, or S7.

[0197] If a leak hole H5 exists in the partial piping S5, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H5.

[0198] If a leak hole H7 exists in the partial piping S7, a fluorescent liquid with a white fluorescent color will leak out from the leak hole H7.

[0199] If a leak hole H1 exists in partial piping S1, no water leakage will occur. This is because we assume that there is at most one leak hole, and we can narrow down the location of the leak hole to one of partial piping S1, S3, S5, or S7. Therefore, if no water leakage occurs after performing the inspection shown in Figure 21(a), we can conclude that there is no leak hole H1 in partial piping S1. However, to be on the safe side, we may perform an inspection to confirm that there is no leak hole H1 in partial piping S1. For example, inject a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color from drain port E1 and a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color from drain port E2. Then, check if there is any leakage of the fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color.

[0200] In this way, the second inspection of type 1 allows us to narrow down the partial piping sections containing leaks from partial piping sections S1, S3, S5, and S7.

[0201] If it is determined that no leak holes exist in any of the partial pipes S1, S3, S5, and S7, then there is a possibility that a leak hole Hi (i=2, 4, or 6) exists in any of the partial pipes S2, S4, and S6, and therefore a second-stage inspection of type 2 will be performed on these partial pipes.

[0202] Referring to Figure 21(b), in the second stage of the Type 2 inspection, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color is injected into the piping from drain outlet E2. In addition, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color is injected into the piping from drain outlet E4. Furthermore, a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color is injected into the piping from drain outlet E6.

[0203] As a result, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color flows through partial piping S2 and S3. In addition, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color flows through partial piping S4. Furthermore, since the fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color and the fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color mix at the joint J5, a fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color flows through partial piping S5.

[0204] A fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color flows through partial piping S6. Furthermore, at the joint J7, the fluorescent liquid with a yellow fluorescent color and the fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color mix, so a fluorescent liquid with a white fluorescent color flows through partial piping S7.

[0205] Therefore, if a leak hole H2 exists in the partial piping S2, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color will leak out from the leak hole H2. It should be noted that the first inspection confirmed that there is no leak hole H3 in the partial piping S3 through which the fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color flows during the second inspection of the first type.

[0206] If a leak hole H4 exists in the partial piping S4, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color will leak out from the leak hole H4.

[0207] If a leak hole H6 exists in the partial piping S6, a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color will leak from the leak hole H6.

[0208] In this way, the second stage inspection of type 2 can determine whether or not there is a water leak in the partial piping S2, S4, or S6.

[0209] Next, we will explain under what circumstances a reservoir 121 containing fluorescent liquid with what fluorescent color can be detected.

[0210] By reading Figures 22(a) and 22(b) together, it is possible to determine which fluorescent liquid color can be detected depending on the combination of the presence or absence of cracks in the washing area 114, the presence or absence of cracks in the veranda 1001, and the presence or absence of leaks in the partial piping.

[0211] Figures 23 to 30 cover all combinations of the presence or absence of leaks in each section of piping, the presence or absence of cracks in the washing area 114, and the presence or absence of cracks in the veranda 1001 during the first inspection, using the notation method shown in Figures 22(a) and 22(b). However, it is assumed that the maximum number of leaks in the piping is 1. Furthermore, it is assumed that cracks may exist in the washing area 114 regardless of the presence or absence of leaks in each section of piping. Furthermore, it is assumed that cracks may exist in the veranda 1001 regardless of the presence or absence of leaks in each section of piping. In addition, cases where there are no leaks and no cracks are excluded.

[0212] Figure 23(a) shows that if a leak hole exists in one of the partial pipes S2, S4, or S6, but none of the partial pipes S1, S3, S5, or S7 have leak holes, and there are no cracks in the washing area 114 or the veranda 1001, then no liquid accumulation due to water leakage will be found. It also shows that a second-stage inspection of type 2 is required for partial pipes S2, S4, and S6.

[0213] Figure 23(b) shows that if a leak hole exists in any of the partial pipes S2, S4, and S6, but no leak holes exist in any of the partial pipes S1, S3, S5, and S7, and if there is a crack in the washing area 114 but no crack in the veranda 1001, a pool of fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color may be found.

[0214] Figure 23(c) shows that if a leak hole exists in any of the partial pipes S2, S4, and S6, but no leak holes exist in any of the partial pipes S1, S3, S5, and S7, and if there are no cracks in the washing area 114 but there are cracks in the veranda 1001, a pool of fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color may be found.

[0215] Figure 23(d) shows that if there are no leaks in any of the partial pipes S2, S4, and S6, and there is a leak in any of the partial pipes S1, S3, S5, and S7, and there are no cracks in the washing area 114 and no cracks in the veranda 1001, then a pool of fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color may be found.

[0216] Figure 23(e) shows that if a leak hole exists in any of the partial pipes S2, S4, and S6, and no leak holes exist in any of the partial pipes S1, S3, S5, and S7, and if there is a crack in the washing area 114 and a crack in the veranda 1001, then a pool of fluorescent liquid with blue fluorescence and a pool of fluorescent liquid with green fluorescence may be found.

[0217] Figure 23(f) shows that if a leak hole exists in any of the partial pipes S2, S4, and S6, and no leak holes exist in any of the partial pipes S1, S3, S5, and S7, and if there is a crack in the washing area 114 and a crack in the veranda 1001, then a pool of fluorescent liquid with blue fluorescence may be found, a pool of fluorescent liquid with green fluorescence may be found, and a pool of fluorescent liquid with cyan fluorescence may be found.

[0218] Figure 23(g) shows that if a leak hole exists in any of the partial pipes S2, S4, and S6, and no leak holes exist in any of the partial pipes S1, S3, S5, and S7, and if there is a crack in the washing area 114 and a crack in the veranda 1001, then a pool of fluorescent liquid with blue fluorescence may not be found, but a pool of fluorescent liquid with green fluorescence may be found, and a pool of fluorescent liquid with cyan fluorescence may be found.

[0219] Figure 23(h) shows that if a leak hole exists in any of the partial pipes S2, S4, and S6, and no leak holes exist in any of the partial pipes S1, S3, S5, and S7, and if there is a crack in the washing area 114 and a crack in the veranda 1001, then a pool of fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color may be found, a pool of fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color may not be found, and a pool of fluorescent liquid with a cyan fluorescent color may be found.

[0220] Figure 23(i) shows that if a leak hole exists in any of the partial pipes S2, S4, and S6, and no leak holes exist in any of the partial pipes S1, S3, S5, and S7, and if there is a crack in the washing area 114 and a crack in the veranda 1001, then it is possible that a pool of fluorescent liquid with blue fluorescence will not be found, a pool of fluorescent liquid with green fluorescence will not be found, and a pool of fluorescent liquid with cyan fluorescence will be found.

[0221] Figure 29(i) shows that if there are no leaks in any of the partial pipes S2, S4, and S6, but there is a leak in any of the partial pipes S1, S3, S5, and S7, and there are cracks in the washing area 114 and cracks in the veranda 1001, then it is possible to find puddles of fluorescent liquid with red fluorescence, blue fluorescence, green fluorescence, magenta fluorescence, cyan fluorescence, yellow fluorescence, and white fluorescence.

[0222] Figures 23 through 30 that were not explained above can be interpreted in the same way, so their explanations will be omitted.

[0223] Next, the water leak inspection method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 31 and 32.

[0224] In S3101, it is determined whether or not a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color has been found. Here, "finding a fluorescent liquid" means finding a pool of the fluorescent liquid. It also includes finding a fluorescent liquid that is flowing due to a water leak.

[0225] If the result in S3101 is NO, then in S3103, it is determined whether a fluorescent solution containing a mixture of blue fluorescence and another fluorescent color (specifically, magenta, cyan, or white) has been found. Here, a fluorescent solution containing a mixture of blue fluorescence and another fluorescent color is a fluorescent solution made by mixing blue fluorescence with the other color fluorescence.

[0226] If the answer to S3101 is YES, and if the answer to S3101 is NO and the answer to S3103 is YES, then in S3105, it is determined that a crack H9 exists in the washing area 114.

[0227] Next, in S3107, it is determined whether or not a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color has been found.

[0228] If the answer in S3107 is NO, then in S3109, it is determined whether a fluorescent solution containing a mixture of green fluorescence and another fluorescent color (specifically cyan, yellow, or white) has been found.

[0229] If the answer in S3107 is YES, and if the answer in S3107 is NO and the answer in S3109 is YES, then in S3111, it is determined that a crack H10 exists on the veranda 1001.

[0230] Next, in S3113, it is determined whether or not a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color has been found.

[0231] If the result in S3113 is NO, then in S3115, it is determined whether a fluorescent solution containing a mixture of red fluorescence and another fluorescent color (specifically magenta, yellow, or white) has been found.

[0232] If the answer to S3113 is YES, and if the answer to S3113 is NO and the answer to S3115 is YES, then in S3117, it is determined that a leak exists in any of the partial pipes through which water has been passed (specifically, partial pipes S1, S3, S5, or S7).

[0233] Next, in S3119, an inspection of the piping only is performed. If, in S3117, it is determined that a leak hole exists in partial piping S1, S3, S5, or S7, an inspection is performed to narrow down the partial piping containing the leak hole from partial piping S1, S3, S5, and S7. This inspection is the same as the inspection explained with reference to Figure 21(a), for example. If, in S3117, it is determined that there are no leaks in any of the partial piping sections S1, S3, S5, and S7, then an inspection is performed to determine if there are any leaks in any of the partial piping sections S2, S4, and S6. This inspection is the same as the one described with reference to Figure 21(b), for example.

[0234] Next, in S3121, it is determined whether a crack H9 in the washing area 114 has been found. If the answer in S3121 is YES, the process is terminated.

[0235] If the answer in S3121 is NO, then in S3123, it is determined whether crack H11 on veranda 1001 was found. If the answer in S3123 is YES, the process is terminated.

[0236] If the answer in S3123 is NO, then in S3125, it is determined whether a leak in the piping has been found. If the answer in S3125 is YES, the process ends.

[0237] If the answer to S3125 is NO, then in S3127, investigate other causes of water leakage.

[0238] [Fourth Embodiment]

[0239] The fourth embodiment has a similar principle to the third embodiment, but the partial piping inspected in the first inspection differs from that of the third embodiment.

[0240] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 33, during the first inspection, a fluorescent liquid having a red fluorescent color is injected from the drain outlet E6. In addition, a fluorescent liquid having a blue fluorescent color is sprayed on the washing area 114. Furthermore, a fluorescent liquid having a green fluorescent color is sprayed on the veranda 1001.

[0241] If a pool of fluorescent liquid having a red fluorescent color or a mixture of red and another color is found, it is determined that a leak hole exists in either the partial piping S6 or S7.

[0242] If a pool of fluorescent liquid having a blue fluorescent color or a fluorescent liquid having a mixture of blue and another color is found, it is determined that a crack H9 exists in the washing area 114.

[0243] If a pool of fluorescent liquid having a green fluorescent color or a mixture of green and another color is found, it is determined that crack H10 exists on veranda 1001.

[0244] If, during the first inspection, a leak is determined to exist in either the partial piping S6 or S7, a fluorescent liquid with red fluorescence is injected, for example, from drain port E1, and a fluorescent liquid with green fluorescence is injected from drain port E6, as shown in Figure 34(a). If a pool of the green fluorescent liquid is found, it is determined that a leak port H6 exists in the partial piping S6. If a pool of the yellow fluorescent liquid is found, it is determined that a leak port H7 exists in the partial piping S6.

[0245] In the first inspection, if it is determined that there are no leaks in either partial piping S6 or S7, then, as shown in Figure 34(b), a fluorescent liquid with red fluorescence is injected, for example, from drain port E1, a fluorescent liquid with green fluorescence is injected from drain port E2, and a fluorescent liquid with blue fluorescence is injected from drain port E4. If a pool of red fluorescent liquid is found, it is determined that a leak port H1 exists in partial piping S1. If a pool of green fluorescent liquid is found, it is determined that a leak port H2 exists in partial piping S2. If a pool of yellow fluorescent liquid is found, it is determined that a leak port H3 exists in partial piping S3. If a pool of blue fluorescent liquid is found, it is determined that a leak port H4 exists in partial piping S4. If a pool of white fluorescent liquid is found, it is determined that a leak port H5 exists in partial piping S5.

[0246] [Fifth Embodiment]

[0247] Figure 35(a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of a building in a third embodiment in which the piping subject to water leak inspection, the washing area 114, and the veranda 1001 are arranged. Figure 35(b) is a conceptual perspective view showing the piping set and the like arranged in the area indicated by the dashed frame 107 in Figure 35(a) (the area between the structural floor 102a and the room floor 105).

[0248] A drain outlet E11 is provided on the veranda 1001. Drain outlet E11 is the entrance to the piping 1002 specifically for the veranda. An exterior wall 1003 is located adjacent to the veranda 1001.

[0249] In this embodiment, the balcony 1001, the piping 1002, and the exterior wall 1003 are the targets of inspection. Specifically, the cracks H10 in the balcony 1001, the water leak holes H11 in the piping 1002, and the cracks H12 in the exterior wall 1003 are the targets of inspection.

[0250] During the inspection, a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color is injected into the drain outlet E11. In addition, a fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color is sprayed on the balcony 1001 as indicated by arrow 1011. Furthermore, a fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color is sprayed on the exterior wall 1003 as indicated by arrow 1012.

[0251] By reading Figures 36(a) and 36(b) together, it is possible to determine which fluorescent liquid of which color can be detected depending on the combination of the presence or absence of cracks in the veranda 1001, the presence or absence of cracks in the exterior wall 1003, and the presence or absence of leaks in the pipe 1002.

[0252] Figures 37 to 44 cover all combinations of the presence or absence of cracks in the veranda 1001, the presence or absence of cracks in the exterior wall 1003, and the presence or absence of leak holes in the piping 1002 during the first inspection, using the notation method shown in Figures 36(a) and 36(b).

[0253] Figure 37(a) shows that if there are no cracks H10 on the veranda 1001, no leak holes H11 on the piping 1002, and no cracks H12 on the exterior wall 1003, no liquid accumulation due to water leakage will be found.

[0254] Figure 37(b) shows that if there is a crack H10 in the veranda 1001, no water leak hole H11 in the pipe 1002, and no crack H12 in the exterior wall 1003, a pool of fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color may be found.

[0255] Figure 37(c) shows that if there is no crack H10 on the veranda 1001, no water leak hole H11 on the pipe 1002, and there is a crack H12 on the exterior wall 1003, a pool of fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color may be found.

[0256] Figure 37(d) shows that if there is no crack H10 on the veranda 1001, a water leak hole H11 on the pipe 1002, and no crack H12 on the exterior wall 1003, a pool of fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color may be found.

[0257] Figure 37(e) shows that if there is a crack H10 in the veranda 1001, no water leak hole H11 in the pipe 1002, and a crack H12 in the exterior wall 1003, a pool of fluorescent liquid with a blue fluorescent color may be found, and a pool of fluorescent liquid with a green fluorescent color may also be found.

[0258] Figure 37(f) shows that if there is a crack H10 in the veranda 1001, no water leak hole H11 in the piping 1002, and a crack H12 in the exterior wall 1003, then it is possible to find a pool of fluorescent liquid with blue fluorescence, a pool of fluorescent liquid with green fluorescence, and a pool of fluorescent liquid with cyan fluorescence.

[0259] Figure 37(g) shows that if a crack H10 exists on the veranda 1001, there is no water leak hole H11 in the pipe 1002, and a crack H12 exists on the exterior wall 1003, then no pool of blue fluorescent liquid may be found, but a pool of green fluorescent liquid may be found, and a pool of cyan fluorescent liquid may also be found.

[0260] Figure 37(h) shows that if a crack H10 exists in the veranda 1001, there is no water leak hole H11 in the piping 1002, and a crack H12 exists in the exterior wall 1003, it is possible that a pool of fluorescent liquid with blue fluorescence will be found, a pool of fluorescent liquid with green fluorescence will be found, and a pool of fluorescent liquid with cyan fluorescence will not be found.

[0261] Figure 37(h) shows that if there is a crack H10 in the veranda 1001, no water leak hole H11 in the piping 1002, and a crack H12 in the exterior wall 1003, it is possible that no pool of blue fluorescent liquid, no pool of green fluorescent liquid, and no pool of cyan fluorescent liquid will be found.

[0262] FIG. 44(i) shows that when there is a crack H10 in the veranda 1001, a water leakage hole H11 in the pipe 1002, and a crack H12 in the outer wall 1003, there may be found a pool of fluorescent liquid having a red fluorescent color, a pool of fluorescent liquid having a blue fluorescent color, a pool of fluorescent liquid having a green fluorescent color, a pool of fluorescent liquid having a magenta fluorescent color, a pool of fluorescent liquid having a cyan fluorescent color, a pool of fluorescent liquid having a yellow fluorescent color, and a pool of fluorescent liquid having a white fluorescent color.

[0263] Among FIGS. 37 to 44, the figures not described above can also be read in the same way, so the descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0264] Next, referring to FIG. 45, a water leakage inspection method according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0265] In S4501, it is determined whether a fluorescent liquid having a blue fluorescent color is found. Here, "finding a fluorescent liquid" means finding a pool of the fluorescent liquid. It also includes finding a fluorescent liquid in a state of flowing due to water leakage.

[0266] If NO in S4501, in S4503, it is determined whether a fluorescent liquid having a mixed color of a blue fluorescent color and another fluorescent color (specifically, magenta, cyan, or white) is found. Here, a fluorescent liquid having a mixed color of a blue fluorescent color and another fluorescent color is a fluorescent liquid of a blue fluorescent liquid and a fluorescent liquid of another color.

[0267] If YES in S4501, and if NO in S4501 and YES in S4503, in S4505, it is determined that there is a crack H10 in the veranda 1001.

[0268] Next, in S4507, it is determined whether a fluorescent liquid having a green fluorescent color is found.

[0269] If the result in S4507 is NO, then in S4509, it is determined whether a fluorescent solution containing a mixture of green fluorescence and another fluorescent color (specifically cyan, yellow, or white) has been found.

[0270] If the answer to S4507 is YES, and if the answer to S4507 is NO and the answer to S4509 is YES, then in S4511, it is determined that a crack H12 exists in the exterior wall 1003.

[0271] Next, in S4513, it is determined whether or not a fluorescent liquid with a red fluorescent color was detected.

[0272] If the result in S4513 is NO, then in S4515, it is determined whether a fluorescent solution containing a mixture of red fluorescence and another fluorescent color (specifically magenta, yellow, or white) has been found.

[0273] If the answer to S4513 is YES, and if the answer to S4513 is NO and the answer to S4515 is YES, then in S4517, it is determined that there is a water leak hole H11 in the balcony piping 1002.

[0274] Next, in S4519, it is determined whether a crack H10 in the veranda 1001 was found. If the answer in S4518 is YES, the process is terminated.

[0275] If the answer in S4519 is NO, then in S4521, it is determined whether a leak hole H11 in the balcony piping 1002 was found. If the answer in S4521 is YES, the process ends.

[0276] If the answer in S4521 is NO, then in S4523, it is determined whether a crack H12 in the exterior wall 1003 was found. If the answer in S4523 is YES, the process ends.

[0277] If the answer to S4523 is NO, then investigate other causes of water leaks in S4525.

Claims

1. A first injection step involves injecting a fluorescent liquid having a different fluorescent color at each inlet into the piping, via two or more inlets of the piping arranged in the building. A spraying step of spraying a fluorescent liquid having a fluorescent color different from any of the fluorescent colors of the fluorescent liquids injected into the piping from the two or more inlets, and also different from the fluorescent color of a mixed liquid obtained by mixing at least a portion of the fluorescent liquids injected into the piping from the two or more inlets, onto a selected location of the building. If a fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak is found at any location in the aforementioned building, the determination step involves determining, based on the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak, whether or not there is a water leak hole in at least some of the multiple partial pipes constituting the piping, and further determining whether or not there is a water leak path from the selected location to the location where the fluorescent color originating from the water leak was found. Having, Water leak detection methods.

2. In the aforementioned determination step, for at least some of the partial piping, it is determined for each individual partial pipe whether or not a leak hole exists. The water leak inspection method according to claim 1.

3. The fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak is, The fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid (first fluorescent liquid) injected into the piping from any one of the two or more inlets mentioned above, The fluorescent color of the mixed solution (second fluorescent solution) obtained by mixing the fluorescent solution injected into the piping from any two or more of the two or more inlets mentioned above, The fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid (third fluorescent liquid) sprayed on the selected area of ​​the aforementioned building, The fluorescence color of the mixture of the first fluorescent solution and the third fluorescent solution (the fourth fluorescent solution), and The fluorescent color of the mixture of the second fluorescent solution and the third fluorescent solution (the fifth fluorescent solution), It is one of the following: The water leak inspection method according to claim 1.

4. The fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak was found in one or more locations. In the determination step, if the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak found at at least one location has the fluorescent color of the first fluorescent liquid or the fluorescent color of the fourth fluorescent liquid, it is determined that a water leak hole exists in the partial piping through which the first fluorescent liquid flows. The water leak inspection method according to claim 3.

5. The fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak was found in one or more locations. In the determination step, if the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak found at at least one location has the fluorescent color of the second fluorescent liquid or the fluorescent color of the fifth fluorescent liquid, it is determined that there is a water leak in the partial piping through which the second fluorescent liquid flows. The water leak inspection method according to claim 3.

6. The fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak was found in one or more locations. In the determination step, if the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak found at at least one location has the fluorescent color of the third fluorescent liquid, the fluorescent color of the fourth fluorescent liquid, or the fluorescent color of the fifth fluorescent liquid, it is determined that there is a water leak path from the selected location to the location where the fluorescent color originating from the water leak was found. The water leak inspection method according to claim 3.

7. Even if the determination step determines that a leak exists in at least some of the multiple partial pipes constituting the piping, if there are multiple partial pipes that may have a leak, the system further includes a re-inspection step performed to narrow down the partial pipe with the leak to just one. The water leak inspection method according to claim 1.

8. The aforementioned re-examination step is, A second injection step involves injecting fluorescent liquids having mutually different fluorescent colors into a plurality of partial pipes where leak holes may exist, via two or more inlets selected to allow the flow of fluorescent liquids having mutually different fluorescent colors into the pipes. A first narrowing step in which, based on the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak found at any location in the building as a result of the second injection step, the partial piping in which the water leak hole is located is narrowed down to one, Having, The water leak inspection method according to claim 7.

9. If, even after performing the first injection step and the spraying step, no fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak is found at any point in the building, and if there is one partial pipe through which the fluorescent liquid injected in the first injection step did not pass, the method further includes the step of determining that one partial pipe is a partial pipe in which a water leak hole exists. The water leak inspection method according to claim 1.

10. If, after performing the first injection step and the spraying step, no fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak is found at any point in the building, and there is one partial pipe through which the fluorescent liquid injected in the first injection step did not pass, the procedure further includes a step of checking whether or not a water leak hole exists in that partial pipe by flowing the fluorescent liquid through that partial pipe. The water leak inspection method according to claim 1.

11. If, after performing the first injection step and the spraying step, no fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak is found at any point in the building, and there are two or more partial pipes through which the fluorescent liquid injected in the first injection step did not pass, the system further includes a second narrowing step to narrow down the partial pipes containing the water leak from those two or more partial pipes. The water leak inspection method according to claim 1.

12. The second filtering step described above is: A third injection step involves injecting fluorescent liquids having mutually different fluorescent colors into a plurality of partial pipes through two or more inlets selected so that fluorescent liquids having mutually different fluorescent colors flow through the pipes in which the fluorescent liquid injected in the first injection step did not flow, A second determination step, based on the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak found at any location in the building as a result of the third injection step, determines whether or not a water leak exists in any of the multiple partial pipes through which the fluorescent liquid injected in the first injection step did not flow. Having, The water leak inspection method according to claim 11.

13. A first injection step involves injecting a fluorescent liquid having a fluorescent color into the piping through one of two or more inlets of the piping installed in the building, A spraying step of spraying a fluorescent liquid having a fluorescent color that is different from the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid injected into the piping, at two or more selected locations of the building, If a fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak is found at any location in the aforementioned building, the determination step involves determining, based on the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak, whether or not there is a water leak hole in at least some of the multiple partial pipes constituting the piping, and further determining whether or not there is a water leak path from any of the two or more selected locations to the location where the fluorescent color originating from the water leak was found. Having, Water leak detection methods.

14. The fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak is, The fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid (first fluorescent liquid) injected into the piping via the aforementioned inlet, The fluorescent color of the fluorescent solution (second fluorescent solution) sprayed on any of the two or more locations selected above, The fluorescence color of the mixture (third fluorescent solution) obtained by mixing the fluorescent solution sprayed on any two or more of the two or more selected locations, The fluorescence color of the mixture of the first fluorescent solution and the second fluorescent solution (the fourth fluorescent solution), and The fluorescence color of the mixture of the first fluorescent solution and the third fluorescent solution (the fifth fluorescent solution), It is one of the following: The water leak inspection method according to claim 13.

15. The fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak was found in one or more locations. In the determination step, if the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak found at at least one location has the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid injected into the piping through the one inlet, or the fluorescent color of a mixture obtained by mixing the fluorescent liquid injected into the piping through the one inlet with another fluorescent liquid, it is determined that a water leak hole exists in the partial piping through which the first fluorescent liquid flows. The water leak inspection method according to claim 13.

16. The fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak was found in one or more locations. In the determination step, if the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak found at at least one location has the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid sprayed at the selected location, or the fluorescent color of a mixture obtained by mixing the fluorescent liquid sprayed at the selected location with another fluorescent liquid, it is determined that there is a water leak from the selected location to the location where the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak was found. The water leak inspection method according to claim 13.

17. Even if the determination step determines that a leak exists in at least some of the multiple partial pipes constituting the piping, if there are multiple partial pipes that may have a leak, the system further includes a re-inspection step performed to narrow down the partial pipe with the leak to just one. The water leak inspection method according to claim 13.

18. The aforementioned re-examination step is, A second injection step involves injecting fluorescent liquids having mutually different fluorescent colors into a plurality of partial pipes where leak holes may exist, via two or more inlets selected to allow the flow of fluorescent liquids having mutually different fluorescent colors into the pipes. A first narrowing step in which, based on the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak found at any location in the building as a result of the second injection step, the partial piping in which the water leak hole is located is narrowed down to one, Having, The water leak inspection method according to claim 17.

19. If, even after performing the first injection step and the spraying step, no fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak is found at any point in the building, and if there is one partial pipe through which the fluorescent liquid injected in the first injection step did not pass, the method further includes the step of determining that one partial pipe is a partial pipe in which a water leak hole exists. The water leak inspection method according to claim 13.

20. If, after performing the first injection step and the spraying step, no fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak is found at any point in the building, and there is one partial pipe through which the fluorescent liquid injected in the first injection step did not pass, the procedure further includes a step of checking whether or not a water leak hole exists in that partial pipe by flowing the fluorescent liquid through that partial pipe. The water leak inspection method according to claim 13.

21. If, after performing the first injection step and the spraying step, no fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak is found at any point in the building, and there are two or more partial pipes through which the fluorescent liquid injected in the first injection step did not pass, the system further includes a second narrowing step to narrow down the partial pipes containing the water leak from those two or more partial pipes. The water leak inspection method according to claim 13.

22. The second filtering step described above is: A third injection step involves injecting fluorescent liquids having mutually different fluorescent colors into a plurality of partial pipes through two or more inlets selected so that fluorescent liquids having mutually different fluorescent colors flow through the pipes in which the fluorescent liquid injected in the first injection step did not flow, A second determination step, based on the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak found at any location in the building as a result of the third injection step, determines whether or not a water leak exists in any of the multiple partial pipes through which the fluorescent liquid injected in the first injection step did not flow. Having, The water leak inspection method according to claim 21.

23. A spraying step of spraying a fluorescent liquid having different fluorescent colors between the two or more selected locations on the aforementioned building, If a fluorescent liquid originating from a water leak is found at any location in the aforementioned building, a determination step is made to determine whether or not a water leak path exists from one or more of the two or more selected locations to the location where the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak was found, based on the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak. Having, Water leak detection methods.

24. The fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak is, The fluorescent color of the fluorescent solution (first fluorescent solution) sprayed on any of the two or more selected locations, and The fluorescence color of the mixture (second fluorescent solution) obtained by mixing the fluorescent solution sprayed on any two of the two or more locations selected above, It is one of the following: The water leak inspection method according to claim 23.

25. The fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak was found in one or more locations. In the determination step, if the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak found at at least one location has the fluorescent color of the fluorescent liquid sprayed at the selected location, or the fluorescent color of a mixture obtained by mixing the fluorescent liquid sprayed at the selected location with another fluorescent liquid, it is determined that there is a water leak from the selected location to the location where the fluorescent liquid originating from the water leak was found. The water leak inspection method according to claim 23.

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