Mist device, and mist system equipped with the same

Abstract

To provide a mist device capable of cooling the vicinity of the face of a user and improving comfort of the user in mist bathing.SOLUTION: A mist device 1 includes: a mist generation section 8 for generating mist; and a mist supply section 10 for supplying mist generated by the mist generation section into a bathtub body 6 forming a retention space with an opened upper part. Mist supplied from the mist supply section forms a raised cloud-like body of mist so as to be raised upward from an overflowing part of the bathtub body, and supplied mist forms a residence layer C of mist in the retention space 4 of the bathtub body.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a mist device, and particularly to a mist device used for a bathtub body.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as shown in Patent Document 1, a bathtub sauna device for taking a sauna bath is known. Such a bathtub sauna device includes a bathtub lid provided on the upper part of the bathtub body to form a sauna space using mist.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the bathtub sauna device as shown in Patent Document 1, since a bathtub lid is required to form a sauna space, the position of the user is restricted, the comfort is impaired, and there is a problem of lack of convenience for the user.

[0005] In contrast, the inventors of the present invention have intensively studied to retain mist in the bathtub body with the bathtub lid omitted and the upper part opened.

[0006] However, when trying to retain mist in the bathtub body with the bathtub lid omitted, there is a risk that the retained mist may overheat the face of the user sitting in the bathtub body.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems of the prior art, and an object thereof is to provide a mist device that can cool the vicinity of the user's face and improve the comfort of the user during mist bathing.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0008] In order to solve the above-described problems, an embodiment of the present invention is a mist device used for a bathtub main body, comprising a mist generation unit that generates mist, and a mist supply unit that supplies the mist generated by the mist generation unit into the bathtub main body that forms a retention space with an open upper part. The mist supplied from the mist supply unit forms a rising cloud-like body of mist that rises above the overflow part of the bathtub main body, and then the supplied mist forms a retention layer of mist within the retention space of the bathtub main body. In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, since the mist supplied from the mist supply unit forms a rising cloud-like body of mist that rises above the overflow part of the bathtub main body, a rising cloud-like body of mist is formed up to the height of the face of a user sitting in the bathtub main body and using the mist generating device. Thereby, the vicinity of the user's face can be cooled by the heat of vaporization when a part of the rising cloud-like mist vaporizes, and the body can be warmed as a mist bath by the retention layer of mist. Therefore, the comfort of the user during the mist bath can be improved.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, preferably, the mist device is configured such that the mist supplied from the mist supply unit forms a rising cloud-like body of mist that rises above the overflow part of the bathtub main body by utilizing an upward airflow that goes upward from within the bathtub main body. In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, the mist device is configured such that the mist supplied from the mist supply unit forms a rising cloud-like body of mist that rises above the overflow part of the bathtub main body by utilizing an upward airflow that goes upward from within the bathtub main body. Thereby, the rising cloud-like body of mist can be formed to rise from the bathtub main body.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, preferably, the mist device is configured to form an upward airflow from the inside of the bathtub body upward by the temperature difference between the temperature of the water stored in the bathtub body and the temperature in the bathroom where the bathtub body is used before the start of mist supply. In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, the mist device forms an upward airflow from the inside of the bathtub body upward by the temperature difference between the temperature of the water stored in the bathtub body and the temperature in the bathroom where the bathtub body is used before the start of mist supply. Thereby, without physically arranging a structure for forming a rising cloud shape of the mist in the bathtub body 6, the rising cloud shape of the mist can be formed so as to rise from the bathtub body by the upward airflow.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, preferably, after the supplied mist forms a mist retention layer in the retention space of the bathtub body, the mist device is configured to raise a part of the mist in the retention space above the water overflow part of the bathtub body. In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, the mist device is configured to raise a part of the mist in the retention space above the water overflow part of the bathtub body after the supplied mist forms a mist retention layer in the retention space of the bathtub body. Thereby, a part of the mist in the retention space after the retention layer is formed rises above the overflow part and is vaporized, and the heat of vaporization can cool the vicinity of the user's face and warm the body as a mist bath by the mist retention layer. Therefore, the comfort of the user during the mist bath can be further improved.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, preferably, the mist device is configured to generate an upward airflow upward in the mist in the bathtub body due to the temperature difference between the ambient temperature of the mist in the bathtub body supplied from the mist supply unit and the temperature in the bathroom where the bathtub body is used in a state where the mist retention layer is formed. In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, the mist device generates an upward airflow that raises a part of the mist in the bathtub body by the temperature difference between the ambient temperature of the mist in the bathtub body supplied from the mist supply unit and the temperature in the bathroom where the bathtub body is used in a state where a mist retention layer is formed. As a result, without physically arranging a structure for forming a rising cloud-like state of the mist in the bathtub body 6, the mist in the bathtub body can be easily raised from the bathtub body by the upward airflow.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, preferably, after forming a mist retention layer in the retention space of the bathtub body, the mist is also supplied from the inside of the bathtub body to the floor surface in the bathroom where the bathtub body is arranged. In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, the mist device can supply mist from inside the bathtub body to the floor surface in the bathroom where the bathtub body is arranged after forming a mist retention layer. As a result, the mist can also vaporize from the floor surface in the bathroom, and the space in the bathroom can be cooled more efficiently by the heat of vaporization. Therefore, the face of the user coming out of the bathtub body can be cooled more, and the body can be warmed as a mist bath by the mist retention layer. Therefore, the comfort of the user during mist bathing can be further improved.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, preferably, the retention boundary surface on the upper side of the mist retention layer is formed at a position higher than the overflow part of the bathtub body. In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, the retention boundary surface of the mist retention layer is formed at a position higher than the overflow part of the bathtub body. As a result, during mist retention, the user's body can be warmed as a mist bath up to the retention boundary surface of the mist at a position higher than the overflow part of the bathtub body. Furthermore, mist can be supplied to the floor surface in the bathroom.

[0015] In one embodiment of the present invention, preferably, the lower end of the mist supply unit is arranged above the overflow part of the bathtub body. In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, the lower end of the mist supply unit is disposed above the overflow portion of the bathtub body. Thereby, compared with the case where the lower end of the mist supply unit is located below the overflow portion, it is possible to more easily form a retention interface at a position higher than the overflow portion with a smaller mist flow rate.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present invention, preferably, a mist system includes the mist device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and the bathtub body that forms the retention space for receiving the mist supplied from the mist supply unit of the mist device.

[0017] In one embodiment of the present invention, preferably, the inner side wall of the bathtub body facing the mist supply unit is formed to incline outward upward. In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, the inner side wall of the bathtub body facing the mist supply unit is formed to incline outward upward. Thereby, the mist supplied from the mist supply unit can easily rise along the inner side wall above the overflow portion of the bathtub body, and it is easy to form a rising cloud-like mist body.

[0018] In one embodiment of the present invention, preferably, the mist supply unit of the mist device is disposed on the short side of the bathtub body. In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, the mist supply unit of the mist device is disposed on the short side of the bathtub body. Thereby, the mist supply unit can supply mist toward the long side of the bathtub body, and even if the mist rises upward above the bathtub body, it can easily float above the bathtub body. Conversely, when the mist supply unit is disposed on the long side of the bathtub body, the rising mist tends to go toward the washing area outside the bathtub body.

Advantages of the Invention

[0019] According to the mist device of the present invention, it is possible to cool the vicinity of the user's face and improve the comfort of the user during mist bathing.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0021] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. From the following description, many improvements and other embodiments of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the following description should be construed as illustrative only and is provided for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the best mode of carrying out the present invention. Without departing from the spirit of the present invention, the details of its structure and / or function can be substantially changed.

[0022] Hereinafter, a mist system equipped with a mist device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a mist system including a mist device according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram of a mist system including a mist device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a mist system including a mist device according to an embodiment of the present invention cut along the long side direction of the bathtub main body. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a mist system 2 including a mist device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided in a bathroom 3. The mist system 2 is a water receiving device having a water receiving portion for receiving the discharged water. Further, the mist system 2 functions as a so-called plumbing device used as a device in a place where water is used.

[0023] The mist device 1 is used for the bathtub main body 6. The bathroom 3 is a box-shaped space, and forms an indoor space 5 that is somewhat sealed because water is used inside. The water includes water having a temperature higher than the outside air temperature (normal temperature) and heated water (so-called hot water). The mist system 2 includes a bathtub main body 6 that forms a retention space 4 for receiving the mist supplied from a mist supply portion (described later) of the mist device 1. A supply device 7 for supplying water is provided in the mist system 2. As will be described later, the mist system 2 is configured such that a warm water layer X (see FIG. 2) heated to a temperature higher than the room temperature and a mist retention layer C formed by the mist heated in the retention space 4 above the warm water layer are formed in the bathtub main body 6. The bathroom 3 is not limited to a room in which only the bathtub main body 6 is arranged, and may include a toilet, a handwashing device, a washbasin, or a combination thereof.

[0024] The bathtub main body 6 forms a retention space 4 that is open upward toward the indoor space 5 in which the bathtub main body 6 of the mist system 2 is disposed. The bathtub main body 6 is a bathtub and is configured such that water can be stored in the inner retention space 4. The bathtub main body 6 is formed in a rectangular shape in a top view, a long-side portion 6d is formed on the long-side of the rectangle, and a short-side portion 6e is formed on the short-side. The width of the bathtub in the short-side portion 6e is shorter than that in the long-side portion 6d. The short-side side wall 6f (see FIG. 3) of the bathtub main body 6 facing the mist supply unit 10 is formed to incline outward upward. The bathtub main body 6 has a volume in the range of, for example, 200 L to 500 L. For example, the bathtub main body 6 has a volume of 300 L, the volume of the warm water layer X of the bathtub main body 6 is 130 L, and the volume of the retention space 4 is 170 L (for example, 300 L when no water is stored).

[0025] The retention space 4 is a space formed in a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape inside the bathtub body 6. As shown in FIG. 3, when the user A takes a bath, water B at 34° C. to 45° C. is stored in the lower side of the retention space 4 (a warm water layer X is formed), and the user A can take a bath while sitting. As will be described later, in FIG. 3, a mist stays above the water B in the retention space 4 (a state in which a mist retention layer C is formed). The retention space 4 is formed up to the upper end portion 6a of the bathtub body 6, and the top surface side is open. The bathtub body 6 is configured such that a mist stays in the retention space 4 as will be described later with a lid covering the top surface of the retention space 4 omitted. Note that the mist may stay in the retention space 4 without storing the water B therein. The shape of the bathtub body 6 is not limited to the box shape as in the embodiment, and any shape that can form a retention space may be used. For example, the bathtub body 6 may be formed in a circular or elliptical shape in a top view, and a bowl-shaped retention space may be formed inside. The bottom surface of the bathtub body 6 may be formed obliquely so that the user can take a posture close to a lying bath posture or a sitting posture, a step portion may or may not be formed on the bottom surface. The top edge portion of the wall portion of the bathtub body 6 does not have to be formed horizontally at a constant height and may be formed such that the height changes. For example, the top edge portion of the wall portion of the bathtub body 6 may have a shape that extends obliquely upward or downward, a shape that extends in an arcuate shape with a part recessed downward, or an uneven shape that forms a substantially right angle in a side view. The mist system 2 is configured such that the mist supplied from the mist supply unit stays in the retention space 4.

[0026] The supply device 7 is a supply device that supplies water to the bathtub main body 6, the faucet device on the washroom side, and the like. The supply device 7 is, for example, a water heater, and can supply water that is not heated and is supplied from a supply source such as a water supply, or heated water (so-called hot water). The supply device 7 is connected to the water inlet 6g formed in the bathtub main body 6 and is configured to be able to supply water into the bathtub main body 6 from the water inlet 6g. The supply device 7 is also connected to the mist device 1 via the water supply line 14 and can supply water to the mist device 1 as well. Note that the mist device 1 may be directly connected to a water supply source such as a water supply without passing through the supply device 7. Also, both the supply device 7 and the water supply source may be connected to the mist device 1. Water is supplied to the supply device 7 from a water supply source such as a water supply. The supply device 7 is electrically connected to the water supply control unit 25. The supply device 7 of the present embodiment has a function as a supplementary heating device that takes in the water in the bathtub main body 6 from the water inlet 6g which is the water intake port, heats this water internally, and returns it to the bathtub main body 6. The supplementary heating device reheats the water already stored in the bathtub main body 6. Note that the supply device 7 does not necessarily have the function as a supplementary heating device. Although the supply device 7 supplies water into the bathtub main body 6 from the water inlet 6g, as a modification, the supply device 7 may be connected to a faucet device for supplying water to the bathtub main body provided in the bathtub main body 6, and supply water into the bathtub main body 6 from this faucet device. Note that the faucet device for supplying water to the bathtub main body 6 may be directly connected to the water supply source without passing through the supply device 7. Also, both the supply device 7 and the water supply source may be connected to the faucet device.

[0027] Next, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5, the mist device according to one embodiment of the present invention described above will be described in more detail. The mist system 2 includes a mist device 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the mist device 1 includes a mist generation unit 8 that generates mist from stored water, a mist supply unit 10 that supplies the mist into the bathtub main body 6, a bathroom air conditioner 80 (see FIG. 1) that can send out warm air or cold air to adjust the room temperature in the bathroom 3, a heater 20, a heater control unit 21 that controls the heater 20, a mist device operation unit 28 that receives a user's operation input, and a mist device control unit 26 that controls the generation of mist in the mist generation unit 8 and the supply of mist by the mist supply unit 10. The mist device 1 has the mist generation unit 8 provided in a horizontally long box-shaped casing 9 (see FIG. 4), and the mist supply unit 10 connected to the mist generation unit 8 is formed to extend downward from the front side of the casing 9.

[0028] The mist generation unit 8 generates heated mist from heated water or generates heated mist by heating the mist generated from water. Therefore, the mist generation unit 8 generates mist that is heated more than the room temperature in the bathroom. Therefore, the heated mist includes those heated after mist generation. The mist generation unit 8 is attached to the wall W above the short side portion 6e on the short side of the bathtub main body 6.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 5, the mist generation unit 8 includes a water storage unit 12 that stores water inside, a water supply path 14 that supplies water from a water supply source to the water storage unit 12, a drainage path 16 that drains water from the water storage unit 12 to a drain pipe, an ultrasonic vibrator 18 provided at the inner bottom of the water storage unit 12, a water thermometer 22 that is a water temperature detection means provided inside the water storage unit 12, an indoor thermometer 24 (see FIG. 3) that is an air temperature detection means provided outside the water storage unit 12, a float switch 29 that sends a water supply stop signal when the float rises on the shaft to the water supply specified water level due to the rise of the water level in the water storage unit 12, and an overflow pipe 31 that allows water to be drained from the upper end opening to the drain pipe side when the water level in the water storage unit 12 exceeds the water supply specified water level Q1 and further rises so that the water overflows above the height position of the upper end opening.

[0030] The water storage section 12 is formed as a water storage space inside the mist generation section 8 having a rectangular parallelepiped shape. A water supply passage 14 is connected to the upper part of the water storage section 12, and a drain passage 16 is connected to the lower part of the water storage section 12. A mist supply section 10 is connected to the side wall near the center of the water storage section 12. A water supply passage solenoid valve 30 for opening and closing the water supply passage 14 is provided in the water supply passage 14. The water supply passage 14 is connected to the supply device 7. The water supply passage solenoid valve 30 has a function of supplying water at a temperature lower than the temperature of the water in the mist generation section 8 as a water supply section to the mist generation section 8. Note that the supply device 7 is configured to supply water at a temperature (for example, about 38°C) lower than the temperature of the water in the mist generation section 8 (for example, about 60°C) to the mist generation section 8. A drain passage solenoid valve 32 for opening and closing the drain passage 16 is provided in the drain passage 16. Further, a drain pump 33 for draining water from the water storage section 12 is provided in the drain passage 16. Also, the overflow pipe 31 is provided in the water supply side portion 12a in the water storage section 12. The upper end of the overflow pipe 31 is located slightly above the water supply regulated water level Q1 and is configured so that the water in the water storage section 12 does not overflow. A drain valve 41 for discharging water leakage due to a failure or the like is provided at the lower part of the water storage section 12.

[0031] The ultrasonic vibrator 18 can oscillate ultrasonic waves in the water in the water storage section 12, vibrate the water on the liquid surface, separate water from the water column generated on the liquid surface into fine particles, and generate mist (fog) having a predetermined particle size. The ultrasonic vibrator 18 is electrically connected to the mist device control section 26, and the particle size of the generated mist can be changed by adjusting the oscillation output, frequency, etc. of the ultrasonic waves of the ultrasonic vibrator 18. The ultrasonic vibrator 18 is configured to generate mist having a Sauter mean particle size of 3.1 μm or more and 10 μm or less with a predetermined oscillation output. The ultrasonic vibrator 18 may be changed to other devices for generating mist having a predetermined particle size, such as a mist device using steam, a mist device using pressure spraying, a mist device using arc discharge, etc. Also, in the present embodiment, a plurality of ultrasonic vibrators 18 are provided side by side in the water storage section 12. The ultrasonic vibrator 18 is connected to an oscillator 19 (see FIG. 4) for driving the ultrasonic vibrator 18 inside the casing of the mist device 1.

[0032] The heater 20 is provided at the bottom of the water inside the water storage part 12 within the mist generation part 8. The heater 20 is configured to heat the water within the water storage part 12. The heater 20 is not limited to being provided within the water storage part 12 in the mist generation part 8, and may be provided in the air within the water storage part 12 or may be provided in the mist supply part 10. Thus, the heater 20 may be configured to heat the mist or air within the water storage part 12. For example, the heater 20 can heat the water supplied from the supply device 7 (e.g., water heated to about 40°C) to 60°C or higher.

[0033] The water temperature measuring device 22 detects the water temperature of the water within the water storage part 12. The mist device control part 26 is electrically connected to the water temperature measuring device 22, and the mist device control part 26 can recognize the water temperature of the water within the water storage part 12. The water temperature measuring device 22 is, for example, a thermistor. The room temperature measuring device 24 detects the temperature of the air outside the water storage part 12 in the indoor space 5 where the bathtub main body 6 is disposed. The mist device control part 26 is electrically connected to the room temperature measuring device 24, and the mist device control part 26 can recognize the temperature of the air in the indoor space 5. Note that in the state before the start of mist supply (before the mist generation part 8 is driven), since it is assumed that the temperature of the air in the indoor space 5 and the temperature of the air in the stagnant space 4 are approximately equal or relatively close, the mist device control part 26 can estimate the temperature of the air in the stagnant space 4 from the temperature of the air in the indoor space 5 measured by the room temperature measuring device 24.

[0034] The float switch 29 has a float that can move up and down in conjunction with the water level. The float switch 29 can detect that the water level has reached the water supply specified level Q1 at the upper end of the float. Also, the float switch 29 can detect that the water level has reached the lower end water level at the lower end of the float. Detection of such a water supply specified level and detection of the lower end water level may be performed by separate floats. The float switch 29 is electrically connected to the mist device control part 26.

[0035] The mist supply unit 10 supplies the mist generated by the mist generation unit 8 into the bathtub main body 6, which is a retention part that forms a retention space 4 with an upward opening in the room where the bathtub main body 6 is arranged. The mist supply unit 10 is arranged above the short-side portion 6e on the short-side of the bathtub main body 6. The mist supply unit is arranged above the overflow part of the water in the bathtub main body. As shown by the cross-section of the flow path shown in FIG. 3, the mist supply unit 10 includes a mist supply flow path 11 that extends horizontally from the mist generation unit 8 to the upper part of one end of the retention space 4, and a mist supply port part 13 that is connected to the downstream end of the mist supply flow path 11 and opens downward. The mist supply flow path 11 forms a horizontally long rectangular flow path (for example, the flow path cross-section) when viewed from the front (from the side of the retention space 4). The mist supply port part 13 extends downward from the downstream end of the mist supply flow path 11. The mist supply port part 13 forms a duct-shaped flow path that extends downward. The mist supply port part 13 forms an opening that opens downward. When viewed from the front of the opening (when viewed from below to above the mist supply port part 113), the mist supply port part 13 forms a horizontally long rectangular flow path (for example, the flow path cross-section). The lower end 13a of the mist supply port part 13 is arranged above the overflow surface 6b of the water in the bathtub main body 6. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the water in the bathtub main body 6 from entering the upstream side from the mist supply port part 13 as the flow of sewage. As a modification, the overflow surface 6b may be an overflow port provided in the bathtub main body 6.

[0036] The mist supply unit 10 can supply mist at a supply rate per unit time in the range of, for example, 0.03 mL / min·L to 1.5 mL / min·L. The mist supply unit 10 can supply mist at a supply rate of 11 mL / min per unit time to the retention space 4 with a volume of 330 L of the bathtub main body 6. Also, for example, the mist supply unit 10 can supply mist at a supply rate of 6 mL / min per unit time to the retention space 4 with a volume of 4.32 L of other water receiving devices or the like.

[0037] The mist device 1 of the mist system 2 supplies mist that forms a retention state into the retention space 4. The mist device 1 is configured such that the mist supplied from the mist supply unit 10 is retained in the retention space 4 of the bathtub main body 6. Further, while utilizing the force received by the mist from the upward airflow directed upward from the bathtub main body 6 by the mist supplied from the mist supply unit 10, after forming a rising cloud-like body R of mist having a density state close to the retention state so as to rise above the overflow portion of the bathtub main body, the supplied mist is configured to form a mist retention layer C in the retention space 4 of the bathtub main body 6. The retention layer C does not necessarily have to be a complete layer, and it is sufficient if the cloud-like body of mist exists at a certain height so as to form a layer. The mist device 1 supplies mist that can return to the retention state while rising to the extent of forming the rising cloud-like body R of mist.

[0038] The bathroom air conditioner 80 can send out warm air at a temperature higher than the temperature in the space where the bathtub main body 6 is provided, cold air at a temperature lower than the temperature in the space, and air at a temperature substantially the same as the temperature in the space. The bathroom air conditioner 80 is provided on the ceiling of the bathroom. The mist system 2 is configured to control the bathroom air conditioner 80 to adjust the temperature in the bathroom and to control the strength of the upward airflow directed upward from the bathtub main body 6 according to the temperature difference between the temperature of the water stored in the bathtub main body 6 and the temperature in the bathroom where the bathtub main body 6 is used before the start of mist supply. The temperature of the warm air is measured at the air outlet of the warm air blower 84. Note that when the temperature in the bathroom is at an appropriate temperature, the mist device 1 may form an upward airflow without operating the bathroom air conditioner 80. That is, the mist system 2 does not necessarily have to be equipped with the bathroom air conditioner 80.

[0039] The water supply control unit 25 controls the supply of water to the bathtub main body 6 and the faucet device on the washroom side. The water supply control unit 25 incorporates a CPU, a memory, etc., and controls devices connected so as to execute water supply and predetermined modes (described later) based on a predetermined control program recorded in the memory, etc. The water supply control unit 25 is electrically connected to the supply device 7, the operation unit 27, the mist device control unit 26, the bathroom air conditioner 80, etc. These electrical connections may be made by wireless communication or the like. The electrical connection between the water supply control unit 25 and the mist device control unit 26 and / or the operation unit 27, etc. may be made by wireless communication or the like. For example, the water supply control unit 25 and the mist device control unit 26 and / or the operation unit 27, etc. may be controlled by wireless communication.

[0040] The water supply control unit 25 can operate to supply water to the bathtub main body 6 independently of the operation of the mist device 1. Note that the water supply control unit 25 can also operate in relation to the operation of the mist device 1 by cooperating with the mist device control unit 26. The water supply control unit 25 and the mist device control unit 26 communicate with each other and function as one control unit. Thus, although the water supply control unit 25 and the mist device control unit 26 are described as separate control units in the present embodiment, they may be a control unit integrated into one form, or may exist as a control unit in a different form such as being further subdivided.

[0041] The operation unit 27 includes a bathroom operation unit 27a provided on the wall surface around the bathtub main body 6 in the bathroom and an outdoor bathroom operation unit 27b provided on the wall surface outside the bathroom. The outdoor bathroom operation unit 27b is provided, for example, in the kitchen, the corridor, etc. The operation unit 27 may be configured by an operation unit that can be remotely operated by wireless communication or the like. For example, the operation unit 27 may be configured by the user's smartphone or the like by using a predetermined program.

[0042] The mist device operation unit 28 transmits the user's operation input to the mist device control unit 26. The mist device operation unit 28 includes a bathroom operation unit 28a provided on the wall surface around the bathtub body 6 in the bathroom, and an outdoor bathroom operation unit 28b provided on the wall surface outside the bathroom. The outdoor bathroom operation unit 28b is provided, for example, in a room in front of the bathroom, a corridor, or the like. The mist device operation unit 28 may be configured by an operation unit that can be remotely operated by wireless communication or the like. For example, the mist device operation unit 28 may be configured by a user's smartphone or the like by using a predetermined program and connected to the mist device control unit 26 via the Internet. The mist device operation unit 28 can also perform operations such as water storage operation for the mist system 2 when supplying mist, water temperature setting, and the like. The mist device operation unit 28 may have an operation function for setting the temperature of the supplied mist, an operation function for setting the particle size of the supplied mist, and the like.

[0043] The mist device control unit 26 incorporates a CPU, a memory, and the like, and controls devices connected so as to execute mist generation, a predetermined mode described later, and the like based on a predetermined control program recorded in the memory and the like. The mist device control unit 26 is electrically connected to the ultrasonic vibrator 18, the heater 20, the water temperature measuring device 22, the indoor temperature measuring device 24, the mist device operation unit 28, the bathroom air conditioner 80, and the like. The mist device control unit 26 is further electrically connected to a water supply passage electromagnetic valve 30 provided in the water supply passage 14 and a drainage passage electromagnetic valve 32 provided in the drainage passage, and can control these.

[0044] The mist device control unit 26 has a function of controlling the mist generation unit as a control unit. The mist device control unit 26 includes a mist generation mode 26a for causing the mist generation unit 8 to generate mist. The mist device control unit 26 can execute the mist generation mode by a program stored in the storage device. The mist generation mode does not need to execute all of the operations of the mist generation unit 8 disclosed in the present embodiment, and may execute at least an operation for generating mist among the operations.

[0045] Next, with reference to FIGS. 3, 6 to 11, the operation of the mist device according to an embodiment of the present invention described above will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, in the standby state before the operation of the mist device 1 starts, water at about 38° C. is stored in the lower half of the retention space 4 of the bathtub main body 6. The temperature of the air in the indoor space 5 in the bathroom 3 and the temperature of the air in the retention space 4 are substantially equal. The water supply path solenoid valve 30 and the drainage path solenoid valve 32 are closed. There is no water in the water storage unit 12. The ultrasonic vibrator 18 and the heater 20 are stopped.

[0046] The user operates the mist device operation unit 28 to start the supply control of the mist of the mist device 1. Before the start of the mist supply, the indoor thermometer 24 measures the temperature of the air in the indoor space 5, and the mist device control unit 26 recognizes the temperature of the air in the indoor space 5. The mist device control unit 26 opens the water supply path solenoid valve 30 and supplies water from the water supply path 14 into the water storage unit 12. The drainage path solenoid valve 32 remains closed. When a predetermined amount of water is stored in the water storage unit 12, the water supply path solenoid valve 30 is closed. Next, the mist device control unit 26 activates the heater 20 and heats the water supplied from the water temperature to 60° C. or higher. After the water is heated to 60° C. or higher, the mist device control unit 26 adjusts the temperature of the mist so as to supply the mist at a predetermined temperature. Next, the mist device control unit 26 executes the mist generation mode, activates the ultrasonic vibrator 18, and generates mist in the water storage unit 12.

[0047] FIG. 6 shows a state immediately after the supply of mist from the mist supply unit 10 into the retention space 4 is started. The mist generated in the water storage unit 12 is supplied from the mist supply unit 10 to the retention space 4 in the bathtub main body 6. The mist is supplied into the retention space 4 while freely falling due to its own weight from the mist supply unit 10 as shown by the arrow F1. In this way, it is suppressed that the mist has a moving speed in a direction other than the downward moving speed. Therefore, it is made difficult for the mist to move such as stirring, diffusion, and rising in the retention space 4.

[0048] In FIG. 7, the state after approximately several seconds have elapsed since the start of the mist supply is shown. The supply of mist from the mist supply unit 10 to the retention space 4 continues. The supplied mist has started to stay in the upper part of the water surface of water B and in the lower part within the retention space 4. The force attempting to raise the mist by the upward airflow does not exceed the weight of the mist supplied from the mist supply unit 10, making it easier for the mist to stay within the retention space 4. Therefore, the mist stays in the relatively lower part within the retention space 4. The mist is gradually supplied and added from the mist supply unit 10 side, and gradually advances from the mist supply unit 10 side toward the short side on the opposite side over the water surface or the bottom within the retention space 4.

[0049] In FIG. 8, the state where the mist has reached the short side on the opposite side of the bathtub main body 6 from the state of FIG. 7 is shown. The supply of mist from the mist supply unit 10 to the retention space 4 continues.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 9, from the state of FIG. 8 where the mist has reached the short side on the opposite side of the bathtub body 6, a rising cloud-like body R of the mist is formed so as to rise above the overflow surface 6b of the bathtub body 6. The mist supplied from the mist supply unit 10 rises along the short side side wall 6f on the short side portion 6e side opposite to the mist supply unit 10, and further rises beyond the overflow surface 6b which is the upper edge. An aggregate of mist (rising cloud-like body R) with a predetermined density is formed above the overflow surface 6b. In the rising cloud-like body R, the mist has a concentration of a certain level or more in the air. By arranging a laser device disposed outside the retention space 4 as described later and a transmittance measuring device that receives the laser at the location where the rising cloud-like body R is formed, the transmittance of the rising cloud-like body R is measured, and the transmittance is preferably set to a value less than at least 90%, more preferably in the range of 80% to 5%. Further, when the transmittance of such a measured value persists for 1 second or more, it can be determined that a rising cloud-like body R with a predetermined density is formed. The rising cloud-like body R has a mist density relatively close to the density of the retention layer C. An aggregate of mist with a density of a certain level or more that has risen above the overflow surface 6b is defined as the rising cloud-like body R. The rising cloud-like body R is formed continuously with the mist retention layer C, and the rising cloud-like body R is formed so as to extend upward from the mist retention layer C (the portion where the mist is retained).

[0051] From the start point of mist supply, an upward airflow is formed from inside the bathtub body 6 upward due to the temperature difference between the temperature of the water stored in the bathtub body 6 and the temperature in the bathroom where the bathtub body 6 is used before the start of mist supply. Therefore, the mist is likely to rise by the upward airflow immediately after the start of supply, and the rising cloud-like body R formed by the mist rising continuously temporarily is likely to be formed upward from the overflow surface 6b.

[0052] As shown in Fig. 9, after the rising cloud-like body R rises to a height within the range of about 5 cm to about 30 cm above the overflow surface 6b, some of the mist floats and diffuses, and for most of the mist, gravity becomes greater than the force received by the mist from the updraft, and it gradually descends again toward the retention space 4 in the bathtub body 6. Also, some of the mist vaporizes and disappears during the movement. The rising cloud-like body R that has risen above the overflow surface 6b has the effect of absorbing the surrounding heat by the vaporization of some of the mist and cooling the surroundings. Therefore, if the user's face is in a position close to the short-side portion 6e side, the mist region can be raised near the user's face, and due to the latent heat of vaporization of some of the mist in the rising cloud-like body R, it has the effect of cooling the surroundings of the user's face. Therefore, it can give an effect of slightly cooling the user's face. On the other hand, even if a part of the mist temporarily rises above the overflow surface 6b, a flow in which the main stream of the mist continues to rise while diffusing from the bathtub body 6 is not formed. Even if it rises to a certain extent, a flow that descends toward the retention space 4 is formed, and the main stream of the mist stays in the retention space 4 (mainly in the region below the overflow surface 6b), and a retention layer C is formed in the retention space 4. During this time, the supply of mist from the mist supply unit 10 to the retention space 4 continues.

[0053] As shown in Fig. 10, as more mist is supplied into the retention space 4 from the state of Fig. 9, the mist descending from the rising cloud-like body R returns to the retention space 4 again and stays there. As shown in FIG. 11, when more mist is supplied, the increased mist will be retained up to the gradually higher parts in the retention space 4. The supply of mist from the mist supply unit 10 to the retention space 4 continues. The mist supplied into the retention space 4 further increases and is retained up to a part near the top (the upper end 6a of the bathtub main body 6) in the retention space 4. The mist mainly stays in the region above the water surface of the water B and below the top in the retention space 4. The mist disappears by falling and being absorbed by the water B, or disappears by adhering to the wall surface of the bathtub main body 6 as water droplets, or diffuses beyond the edge of the upper end 6a of the bathtub main body 6. The time until disappearance varies depending on the particle size of the mist. Although the mist thus disappears or diffuses, a new mist is supplied before it disappears or diffuses, so that a mist retention layer can be formed in the retention space 4. That is, the mist forms a stable retention layer C while gently flowing in the retention space 4 and not reaching the point of diffusing from the retention space 4. The retention layer C is formed by the presence of mist with a density above a certain level in the unit space above the water surface of the water B. The retention layer is recognized as a white cloud shape. The retention layer C is visually recognized as if the retention space 4 is filled with mist up to the top. The retention layer C is distinguished from the mist that diffuses from the retention space 4 and spreads throughout the indoor space.

[0054] The retention boundary surface 66 on the upper side of the retained mist is formed below the height position M1 obtained by adding the height corresponding to the depth L1 of the bathtub main body 6 to the height (height position M0 (see FIG. 3)) of the overflow surface 6b of the bathtub main body 6. The retention boundary surface 66 indicates the boundary region between the retention layer C where the mist has a concentration above a certain level in the air and the air layer J where the mist has a concentration below a certain level in the air. Since the mist moves to some extent while staying, the retention boundary surface 66 is defined as a region having a somewhat height in the vertical direction. Note that the overflow surface 6b, which is the overflow part of the bathtub main body 6, is the lowest part of the side wall of the bathtub main body 6, that is, the part where water first overflows when it accumulates up to the upper limit of the bathtub main body 6.

[0055] For example, the retention boundary surface 66 on the upper side of the retained mist is formed above the height position M0 of the overflow surface 6b, which is the overflow part of the bathtub main body 6. At this time, for example, the retention boundary surface 66 on the upper side of the retained mist may be formed below the height position 200 mm above the height (height position M0) of the overflow surface 6b of the bathtub main body 6, and for example, it may also be formed below the height position 100 mm above the height (height position M0) of the overflow surface 6b of the bathtub main body 6. In this way, when the retention boundary surface 66 is at a position higher than the height of the overflow surface 6b of the bathtub main body 6, the user can obtain the mist bathing effect up to the position beyond the bathtub, that is, the warm bath effect up to a height higher than the bathtub. While the mist generation unit 8 is being driven (used), mist is supplied into the bathtub main body 6 and the retention of the mist continues. The mist device 1 is configured to define the temperature difference between the water temperature and the room temperature in the bathtub main body 6, the particle size of the mist, the supply amount of the mist, etc., so that the height position of the retention boundary surface 66 becomes the predetermined height position as described above.

[0056] After the supplied mist forms the mist retention layer C in the retention space 4 of the bathtub main body 6, a part of the mist in the retention space 4 rises above the water overflow part 6C of the bathtub main body 6. For example, a part of the retention layer C rises so as to bulge and rises above the overflow part 6C. That is, in a relatively short time, a relatively small rising cloud-like body R that rises from the retention layer C above the overflow part 6C is formed. Whether the rising cloud-like body R is formed can be determined by the transmittance in the same way as described later. Thereby, a part of the mist in the retention space after the retention layer C is formed is more likely to rise above the overflow part 6c, the mist rises and vaporizes, and the heat of vaporization can cool the vicinity of the user's face, and the body can be warmed as a mist bath by the mist retention layer.

[0057] Also, as shown in Fig. 11, after the mist retention layer C is formed in the retention space 4 of the bathtub main body 6, by continuously supplying mist from the mist supply unit 10 to the bathtub main body 6, the mist that cannot fit into the retention space 4 overflows, and it becomes possible to supply the mist to the floor surface side adjacent to the bathtub main body 6. As a result, the mist can also vaporize from the floor surface in the bathroom, and the space in the bathroom can be cooled more efficiently by the heat of vaporization. Therefore, the face of the user coming out of the bathtub main body 6 can be cooled more, and the body can be warmed as a mist bath by the mist retention layer C. When the user finishes using the mist device 1, the user operates the mist device operation unit 28, and the execution of the mist generation mode of the mist device control unit 26 is terminated.

[0058] As shown in Fig. 11, the mist supplied by the mist device 1 of the mist system 2 can form a retention state in the retention space 4. This mechanism will be described. As a basic mechanism, the force that attempts to raise the mist by the updraft generated by the temperature difference ΔT between the water temperature in the bathtub main body 6 and the room temperature in the bathroom does not exceed the weight of the mist supplied from the mist supply unit 10, so that the mist stays in the retention space 4. That is, since the weight of the mist is greater than the force that attempts to raise the mist, the mist forms a retention state. Therefore, the mist device 1 of the mist system 2 can more easily form a retention state of the mist in the retention space 4 by supplying mist that satisfies such conditions. The updraft is generated by the temperature difference ΔT between the water temperature in the bathtub main body 6 and the room temperature in the bathroom, but it is also generated by the temperature difference between the temperature of the mist (the ambient temperature of the mist) and the room temperature in the state where the mist retention layer is formed. In addition, the weight of the mist is affected by the particle size and density of the mist. When the supply amount of the mist increases, the density of the mist increases and / or the mist particles combine with each other to increase the particle size of the mist, etc., so that the weight of the aggregate of the mist becomes heavier. Therefore, when the supply amount of the mist increases, the mist is more likely to form a retention state. On the other hand, when the supply amount of the mist decreases, it becomes difficult for the mist to form a retention state. Also, when the particle size of the supplied mist increases, the mist is more likely to form a retention state. Also, in order to form a retention state of the mist in the retention space 4, the larger the retention space 4 is, the larger the supply amount of the mist required. When the retention space 4 is relatively small, the supply amount of the mist is at least less, and it becomes easier to fill the mist with a smaller supply amount, and the density of the mist is likely to increase. Therefore, a retention state of the mist can be formed in the retention space 4 with a smaller supply amount. Also, when the kinetic energy of the mist at the time of mist supply is large, the mist is likely to dissipate, so it becomes difficult for the mist to form a retention state. When the supply amount of the mist is relatively small, the mist is likely to be vaporized, so it becomes difficult for the mist to form a retention state. Based on such findings, the inventors of the present invention obtained the following findings on the state in which the mist is likely to stay in the retention space 4.

[0059] Next, with reference to FIG. 12, a state in which mist is likely to stay in the stay space 4 will be described. As shown in FIG. 12, by changing the supply flow rate [ml / min] of the mist with respect to the temperature difference ΔT [° C.] between the water temperature in the bathtub body 6 and the room temperature in the bathroom, after the rising cloud-like body of the mist is formed above the overflow portion of the bathtub body, whether the mist stays in the stay space 4, whether the mist stays in the stay space 4 without the rising cloud-like body of the mist being formed above the overflow portion of the bathtub body, or whether the mist floats outside the stay space 4 and does not stay in the stay space 4 was evaluated. At this time, the height from the overflow surface 6b (upper rim portion) at the lower end of the mist supply unit 10 is 50 mm, and the Sauter mean diameter of the mist is 3.1 μm or more and 10 μm or less. When water is not stored in the bathtub body 6, the water temperature in the bathtub body 6 is evaluated as the temperature of the bathtub body 6, that is, the room temperature.

[0060] In FIG. 12, with respect to the supply flow rate of mist [ml / min], the temperature difference ΔT [°C] between the water temperature in the bathtub body 6 and the room temperature in the bathroom is changed to determine whether the mist floats outside the retention space 4 and does not stay in the retention space 4, or whether the mist stays in the retention space 4 after the rising cloud-like body of the mist is formed above the overflow portion of the bathtub body. The temperature differences ΔT [°C] at the boundary points are found to be 0 [°C], 7.9 [°C], 11.5 [°C], 17.0 [°C], and 22.0 [°C]. The virtual boundary line P1 passing through these multiple temperatures indicates the boundary between the region where the mist floats outside the retention space 4 and does not stay in the retention space 4 and the region where the mist stays in the retention space 4 after the rising cloud-like body of the mist is formed above the overflow portion of the bathtub body. Similarly, with respect to whether the mist stays in the retention space 4 after the rising cloud-like body of the mist is formed above the overflow portion of the bathtub body 6 or whether the mist stays in the retention space 4 without the rising cloud-like body of the mist being formed above the overflow portion of the bathtub body, the temperature differences ΔT [°C] at the boundary points are found to be 0 [°C], 4.0 [°C], 4.3 [°C], 7.6 [°C], 8.2 [°C], and 7.5 [°C]. The virtual boundary line P2 passing through these multiple temperatures indicates the boundary between the region where the mist stays in the retention space 4 after the rising cloud-like body of the mist is formed above the overflow portion of the bathtub body and the region where the mist stays in the retention space 4 without the rising cloud-like body of the mist being formed above the overflow portion of the bathtub body.

[0061] In FIG. 12, in the region N1 where the mist floats outside the retention space 4 and does not stay in the retention space 4, it is a region where the upward airflow generated from the difference between the water temperature and the room temperature is relatively strong. Inside the retention space 4, the weight (gravity) of the mist is smaller than the force exerted by the upward airflow on the mist. Therefore, the mist is floating and dissipating above the retention space 4 due to the upward airflow. In region N2 where the mist stays within the retention space 4 without the rising cloud-like mist being formed above the overflow portion of the bathtub body, it is a region where the updraft caused by the temperature difference between the water temperature and the room temperature is relatively weak. Since the weight (gravity) of the mist in the retention space 4 is greater than the force exerted by the updraft on the mist, the mist is not easily lifted by the updraft and stays in the retention space 4 at a position below the overflow surface 6b. In region N3 where the mist stays within the retention space 4 after the rising cloud-like mist is formed above the overflow portion of the bathtub body 6, it is a region where an updraft is generated to a certain extent due to the temperature difference between the water temperature and the room temperature. Although the weight (gravity) of the mist in the retention space 4 is greater than the force exerted by the updraft on the mist, the weight of the mist and the force exerted by the updraft are relatively close. Therefore, the mist rises by the updraft to a position once above the overflow surface 6b to form a rising cloud-like mist, and then gradually descends toward the retention space 4 to form a state where the mist stays in the retention space 4 at a position below the overflow surface 6b.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 13, the height from the overflow surface 6b (upper rim portion) at the lower end of the mist supply unit 10 was changed to 110 mm, and the same measurement as in FIG. 12 was performed. That is, the height from the overflow surface 6b at the lower end of the mist supply unit 10 in FIG. 13 is higher than the height in FIG. 12. In FIG. 13, parameters other than the height at the lower end of the mist supply unit 10 are set in the same manner as in FIG. 12.

[0063] In FIG. 13, for the supply flow rate of mist [ml / min], the temperature difference ΔT [°C] between the water temperature in the bathtub body 6 and the room temperature in the bathroom is changed to determine whether the mist floats outside the retention space 4 and does not stay in the retention space 4, or whether the mist stays in the retention space 4 after the rising cloud-like mist is formed above the overflow part of the bathtub body 4. The temperature differences ΔT [°C] at the boundary points are found to be 0[°C], 2[°C], 7.2[°C], 10.1[°C], 15.5[°C], 17.2[°C], and 20.5[°C]. The virtual boundary line P3 is calculated to pass through these multiple temperatures, and indicates the boundary between the region where the mist floats outside the retention space 4 and does not stay in the retention space 4, and the region where the mist stays in the retention space 4 after the rising cloud-like mist is formed above the overflow part of the bathtub body. Also, the temperature differences ΔT [°C] at the boundary points for whether the mist stays in the retention space 4 after the rising cloud-like mist is formed above the overflow part of the bathtub body 6, or whether the mist stays in the retention space 4 without the rising cloud-like mist being formed above the overflow part of the bathtub body, are found to be 0[°C], 2.5[°C], and 3.3[°C]. The virtual boundary line P4 is calculated to pass through these multiple temperatures, and indicates the boundary between the region where the mist stays in the retention space 4 after the rising cloud-like mist is formed above the overflow part of the bathtub body, and the region where the mist stays in the retention space 4 without the rising cloud-like mist being formed above the overflow part of the bathtub body. Therefore, also in FIG. 13, similar to FIG. 12, regions N1, N2, and N3 are shown.

[0064] In FIG. 13, the height at which the mist supplied from the mist supply unit 10 into the retention space 4 falls to the water surface becomes higher than the falling height in FIG. 12, and the mist diffuses during its descent, making it easier for the density of the mist to decrease. Therefore, the weight of the mist becomes lighter in the retention space 4 and the like, making it easier for the mist to float and disperse. Also, in FIG. 13, the height at which the mist supplied from the mist supply unit 10 into the retention space 4 falls to the water surface becomes higher than the falling height in FIG. 12, and the mist has a higher speed. Therefore, when the speed of the mist is relatively high compared to when the speed of the mist is initially low, the kinetic energy of the mist becomes higher, making it easier for the mist to float and disperse. Further, when the mist reaches the short side portion 6e on the side opposite to the mist supply side, it is easier to rise along the wall surface. Therefore, it can be seen that the virtual boundary line P3 has a lower temperature than the virtual boundary line P1, and even when the updraft generated from the difference between the water temperature and the room temperature is weaker (when ΔT is small), the mist floats and disperses above the retention space 4 due to the updraft. Also, the virtual boundary line P4 has a lower temperature than the virtual boundary line P2, and it shows that even when the updraft generated from the difference between the water temperature and the room temperature is weaker (when ΔT is small), after the mist rising cloud-like body is formed above the overflow portion of the bathtub body 6, the mist stays in the retention space 4.

[0065] The relationship between the supply flow rate [ml / min] of the mist and the temperature difference ΔT [°C] between the water temperature in the bathtub body 6 and the room temperature in the bathroom as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 is shown for the bathtub body 6. The inventors have confirmed that a similar tendency of the relationship holds not only for the bathtub body 6 but also for other water receiving devices having a different volume of the retention space 4 than the bathtub body 6, such as the floor of the bathroom wash area, shower room, washbasin bowl, washstand bowl, kitchen sink, toilet, etc. For example, in each of these devices, the volume of the retention space 4 is relatively smaller compared to the volume in the bathtub body 6. When the volume of the retention space 4 of the bathtub body 6 is smaller than that shown in Fig. 12, the density of the mist tends to increase and the mist tends to form a retention state. Therefore, the position of the virtual boundary line P1 in Fig. 12 moves upward (e.g., indicated by the virtual boundary line P5). The position of the virtual boundary line P2 in Fig. 12 also moves upward (e.g., indicated by the virtual boundary line P6). Conversely, when the volume of the retention space is larger than that of the retention space 4 of the bathtub body 6 shown in Fig. 12, the density of the mist tends to decrease and the mist is less likely to form a retention state. Therefore, the position of the virtual boundary line P1 in Fig. 12 moves downward (e.g., indicated by the virtual boundary line P7). The position of the virtual boundary line P2 in Fig. 12 also moves downward (e.g., indicated by the virtual boundary line P8).

[0066] In Figs. 12 and 13, the particle size of the mist generated by the ultrasonic vibrator 18 is a predetermined particle size. However, it is also possible to change the particle size of the mist by changing the means for generating the mist (such as a centrifuge) or the frequency of the ultrasonic vibrator, etc. When the particle size of the mist is larger than that of the mist used in Fig. 12, the weight of the mist becomes heavier and the mist tends to form a retention state. Therefore, the position of the virtual boundary line P1 in Fig. 12 moves upward (e.g., indicated by the virtual boundary line P5). Also, the position of the virtual boundary line P2 in Fig. 12 moves upward (e.g., indicated by the virtual boundary line P6). Conversely, when the particle size of the mist is smaller than that of the mist used in Fig. 12, the weight of the mist becomes lighter and the mist is less likely to form a retention state. Therefore, the position of the virtual boundary line P1 in Fig. 12 moves downward (e.g., indicated by the virtual boundary line P7). Also, the position of the virtual boundary line P2 in Fig. 12 moves downward (e.g., indicated by the virtual boundary line P8). In this way, even when the volume of the retention space 4 changes or the particle size of the mist changes, it is possible to understand the relationship between the state where the mist is retained in the retention space 4 and the state where it is not retained based on Figs. 12 and 13, etc.

[0067] Next, with reference to FIG. 14, a method for measuring the ambient temperature of the mist in the bathtub body 6 will be described. The ambient temperature [°C] of the mist in the bathtub body 6 is measured using a temperature measuring device capable of measuring the temperature of air, for example, a thermistor 95. When it is desired to measure the ambient temperature of the mist in the bathtub body 6, the thermistor 95 is arranged for measurement. The temperature measuring part of the thermistor 95 is arranged at the center of the long side and the center of the short side of the bathtub body 6 and at the center of the height from the surface of the water stored in the bathtub body 6 to the overflow surface 6b, and is adapted to measure the temperature of the mist. For example, the ambient temperature of the mist in the bathtub body 6 is measured at a temperature at which sufficient time has elapsed (for example, 2500 [s] has elapsed) after the start of mist supply and the temperature rise has almost stopped. Care is taken so that no extreme gradient occurs in the temperature of the measurement target during measurement.

[0068] Next, with reference to FIG. 14, a method for measuring the water temperature (hot water temperature) in the bathtub body 6 will be described. The water temperature [°C] in the bathtub body 6 is measured using a temperature measuring device capable of measuring the water temperature, for example, a thermistor 99. When it is desired to measure the water temperature in the bathtub body 6, the thermistor 99 is arranged at a predetermined position in the bathtub body for measuring the water temperature. The temperature measuring part of the thermistor 99 is arranged at the center of the long side and the center of the short side of the bathtub body 6 and at the center of the depth of the water stored in the bathtub body 6, and is adapted to measure the water temperature. Care is taken so that no extreme gradient occurs in the temperature of the measurement target during measurement.

[0069] Next, with reference to FIG. 14, a method for measuring the room temperature in the bathroom provided in the bathtub main body 6 will be described. Since the mist generation unit 8 includes an indoor thermometer 24, the room temperature is basically measured by the indoor thermometer 24. When the mist generation unit 8 does not include the indoor thermometer 24, or when the room temperature cannot be measured (or is difficult to measure) by the indoor thermometer 24, a thermistor 86 is arranged at a predetermined position near the bathtub main body in the bathroom space to measure the room temperature. The temperature measurement part of this thermistor 86 is arranged, for example, at a position 200 mm on the side of the bathtub main body 6, 200 mm in front of the wall on the back side of the paper along the long side direction of the bathtub main body, and 1000 mm above the floor surface, and is configured to measure the room temperature. Care is taken so that there is no extreme gradient in the temperature of the measurement target during measurement.

[0070] Next, with reference to FIG. 15, a measuring device and a measuring method for the flow rate of the mist supplied from the mist supply unit 10 will be described. The flow rate measuring device 90 for the mist flow rate includes a mist generation unit 8, a mist supply unit 10, a support structure 91 that supports the mist generation unit 8 and the mist supply unit 10 on a water storage tank, a water storage tank 92 that stores water, a water supply pump 94 that supplies water from the water storage tank 92 to the mist generation unit 8, a fan 96 that sends out the mist supplied from the mist supply unit 10 to the outside of the flow rate measuring device 90, and an electronic balance 98 that measures weight. The ultrasonic vibrator 18 of the mist generation unit 8 is driven by an oscillation circuit 93 attached to the support structure 91. The water supply pump 94 and the fan 96 are supported by the support structure 91. That is, the flow rate measuring device 90 is configured with the water used for mist generation and the mist generation unit 8 used for mist generation, etc. placed on the electronic balance 98. The electronic balance 98 uses GF-32K manufactured by A&D Company.

[0071] In the flow rate measuring device 90, in the state before mist generation, the weights of the mist generating unit 8, the mist supply unit 10, the support structure 91, the water storage tank 92 storing water, the water supply pump 94, and the fan 96 (hereinafter referred to as the weights of the mist generating unit 8 etc.) are measured with them placed on the electronic balance 98. Thereafter, mist generation is performed while these mist generating unit 8 etc. are kept placed on the electronic balance 98. In such a flow rate measuring device 90, water is supplied to the mist generating unit 8 by the water supply pump 94, and the water level is kept substantially fixed by draining water from the overflow pipe 31. Mist is generated by driving the ultrasonic vibrator 18, and the mist flowing out from the mist supply unit 10 is sent outside the flow rate measuring device 90 by the fan 96. After the start of driving of the ultrasonic vibrator 18, at the point when one minute has elapsed, the driving of the ultrasonic vibrator 18 is stopped, and the weights of the mist generating unit 8 etc. are measured by the electronic balance 98. Therefore, the amount of decrease during mist generation can be obtained by the following formula, "Amount of decrease during mist generation = Weight of the mist generating unit 8 etc. before mist generation - Weight of the mist generating unit 8 etc. after mist generation". Then, the supply flow rate of the mist can be obtained by the following formula, "Mist supply flow rate [ml / min] = Amount of decrease during mist generation - Evaporation amount". The mist supply flow rate [ml / min] thus obtained is determined by measuring the mist supply flow rate [ml / min] three times in the same manner and taking the average of the measurement results to obtain the final mist supply flow rate [ml / min]. Also, the evaporation amount takes into account the natural evaporation amount during the measurement. Therefore, in the flow rate measuring device 90, the ultrasonic vibrator 18 is not driven, and the amount of weight decrease after one minute has elapsed is measured. A series of such measurements of the amount of weight decrease are performed three times, and the average of the measurement results is taken to determine the final amount of weight decrease as the evaporation amount and used for the calculation of the above-mentioned mist supply flow rate.

[0072] In the flow rate measuring device 90, measurement is performed so that water other than mist (for example, water droplets of a water column generated by an ultrasonic vibrator) does not jump out of the flow rate measuring device 90. Further, even when a part of the generated mist returns to water in the mist supply unit 10, the flow rate measuring device 90 is configured so that this water returns to the water storage tank 92 or the like. The fan 96 is set to an air volume and direction such that the mist can flow outward without accumulating in the mist supply unit 10 and the mist generation unit 8.

[0073] Next, with reference to FIGS. 16 to 18, a measuring device and a measuring method for the particle size of the mist supplied from the mist supply unit 10 will be described. The mist particle size measuring device 37 includes a box-shaped device 39 that sets a virtual residence space 34 having the same size and shape as described above, and a particle size distribution measuring device 53. A square opening 52 of 20 mm × 20 mm is formed near the center of the side wall of the box-shaped device 39, that is, the side wall of the virtual residence space 34, and a lid 57 is attached to the opening 52. When measuring the particle size of the mist, the particle size of the mist is measured by arranging the mist particle size measuring device 37 instead of the bathtub main body 6. The measuring device 37 is arranged so that the positional relationship between the lower end of the mist supply unit 10 and the measuring device 37 is substantially the same as the positional relationship between the mist supply unit 10 and the bathtub main body 6, and the mist is supplied from the mist supply unit 10 to the measuring device 37 in the same manner as the supply of the mist from the mist supply unit 10 to the bathtub main body 6.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 17, the particle size distribution measuring device 53 includes a particle size measuring laser 54 arranged such that a measuring region E of the particle size measuring laser is located near and in front of the opening 52. In a top view, the particle size measuring laser 54 is arranged such that the laser beam of the particle size measuring laser 54 is parallel to the long side of the virtual residence space 34. The measuring region E through which the laser beam emitted from the particle size measuring laser 54 passes is located in front of the opening 52. The measuring region E is located at a distance of 150 mm from the opening 52. The particle size distribution measuring device 53 further includes a measuring lens 56 for detecting the diffracted / scattered light of this laser beam.

[0075] With the lid 57 attached to this opening, the supply of mist into the virtual retention space 34 is started. The supply port of the mist from the mist supply unit 10 is not shown in the figure. After 1 minute from the start of the mist supply, the lid 57 is opened, and the mist is leaked toward the measurement region E of the particle size measurement laser 54. The scattered light distribution is measured by the measurement lens 56 in a state where the transmittance of the particle size measurement laser 54 is 60% - 90%. For example, as the particle size measurement laser 54 and the measurement lens 56, LDSA-SPR1500A of the Aerotrack LDSA-SPR series of a spray particle size distribution measuring device manufactured by Microtrac Bell Co., Ltd. is used. The particle size distribution data is measured 10 times, and this particle size distribution data is recorded in the PC. The 10 times of particle size distribution data are averaged in the PC. FIG. 18 shows an example of the particle size distribution data measured by the particle size distribution measuring device 53. In FIG. 18, the frequency [%] is shown on the left vertical axis, the cumulative [%] is shown on the right vertical axis, and the particle size [μm] is shown on the horizontal axis. For example, the PC analyzes the particle size distribution data thus obtained, and for example, the 20% tile value particle size G of the particle size distribution data may be obtained as the particle size data, or for example, the Sauter mean particle size H may be obtained as the particle size data. The Sauter mean particle size indicates the particle size having the same surface area to volume ratio as the total volume of all particles with respect to the total surface area of all particles. By obtaining the average particle size based on the Sauter mean particle size, the influence on the measured value by the particles having a small number of large particle sizes can be suppressed. In this way, the main (for example, more than half) particle size of the mist supplied from the mist supply unit 10 can be measured. The Sauter mean particle size H of the mist supplied from the mist device 1 in the present embodiment is 3.1 μm or more and 10 μm or less. The Sauter mean particle size H of the mist can be changed by changing the output of the ultrasonic oscillator 18 of the mist generation unit 8, changing the vibration frequency of the ultrasonic oscillator 18, or changing the mist generation means to a centrifugal separator or the like. For example, it is also possible to change and set the Sauter mean particle size H of the mist supplied from the mist supply unit 10 within the range of 3.1 μm or more and 40 μm or less.

[0076] Next, with reference to FIG. 19, a determination device and a determination method for whether mist is in a retained state (whether a mist retention layer C is formed) in the retention space 4 in the bathtub main body 6 will be described. As shown in FIG. 19, the internal transmittance measured inside the retention space 4 in the bathtub main body 6 using the transmittance measurement device 68 is compared with the external transmittance measured outside the retention space 4. When the internal transmittance is lower than the external transmittance, it can be determined that mist is retained inside the retention space 4. More specifically, when the internal transmittance / external transmittance < 1, it is determined that mist is retained inside the retention space 4.

[0077] For example, as shown in FIG. 11, in a state where mist is retained inside the retention space 4, the internal transmittance decreases. On the other hand, the mist mainly stays inside the retention space 4, and the external transmittance measured above the retention boundary surface 66 is a relatively high value. Therefore, the internal transmittance / external transmittance < 1, and it is determined that mist is retained inside the retention space 4. Note that it may be determined that mist is retained inside the retention space 4 when the internal transmittance is within the range of 15% or less.

[0078] Next, with reference to FIG. 19, the transmittance measurement device 68 will be described. Whether a retention state is formed can be determined by attaching the transmittance measurement device 68 to the bathtub main body 6. The transmittance measurement device 68 includes a first laser device 70 in which a measurement unit is arranged inside the retention space 4, and a first transmittance measurement device 72 that receives the laser. The first laser device 70 and the first transmittance measurement device 72 are arranged horizontally 150 mm apart at a position 150 mm below the upper end of the retention space 4 (for example, at a depth position about 30% of the depth of the retention space 4). The first laser device 70 and the first transmittance measurement device 72 are arranged near the center of the retention space 4 in a top view. The intensity of the laser light measured by the first transmittance measurement device 72 is measured with respect to the intensity of the laser light oscillated from the first laser device 70, and the internal transmittance is measured. The transmittance measuring device 68 further includes a second laser device 74 disposed outside the residence space 4 and a second transmittance measuring device 76 that receives the laser. The second laser device 74 and the second transmittance measuring device 76 are horizontally separated and disposed at a position 150 mm above the upper end of the residence space 4 (for example, a position assumed to be above the residence interface 66 at the upper end of the residence layer C). The first laser device 70 and the first transmittance measuring device 72 are disposed near the center of the residence space 4 in a top view. The intensity of the laser light measured by the second transmittance measuring device 76 is measured with respect to the intensity of the laser light oscillated from the second laser device 74, and the external transmittance is measured. In this way, the internal transmittance and the external transmittance in the residence space 4 can be measured respectively. As a more specific device configuration of the measuring device 68, the laser light emitted from the digital fiber amplifier FS-N11MN manufactured by Keyence Corporation is oscillated through the FU-77TZ manufactured by the same company (the first laser device 70 or the second laser device 74), and received by the FU-77TZ manufactured by the same company (the first transmittance measuring device 72 or the second transmittance measuring device 76). The received light is returned to the fiber amplifier FS-N11MN, and a voltage output of, for example, 1 - 5V is performed according to the amount of light. The amount of light is, for example, 1500 - 4500. The output voltage is measured by the NR-HA08 of the NR-500 series manufactured by the same company and scaled to a value of 0 - 100% on a PC. The transmittance data is measured, for example, at a sampling period of 100 ms. For example, after the mist is supplied almost quantitatively and the residence layer C is formed, the transmittance data for, for example, 30 seconds is averaged and calculated. For example, when performing the determination measurement of the mist rising cloud state, the average calculation is not performed, and the determination is made based on the data over time.

[0079] Next, the effects of the configuration of this embodiment will be described. In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, since the mist supplied from the mist supply unit 10 forms a rising cloud-like mist body that rises above the overflow portion of the bathtub body 6, a rising cloud-like mist body is formed up to the height of the face of a user sitting in the bathtub body 6 and using the mist device 1. As a result, the vicinity of the user's face can be cooled by the heat of vaporization when a part of the rising cloud-like mist vaporizes, and the body can be warmed as a mist bath by the mist retention layer. Therefore, the comfort of the user during the mist bath can be improved.

[0080] In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, the mist device 1 is configured such that the mist supplied from the mist supply unit 10 forms a rising cloud-like mist body that rises above the overflow portion of the bathtub body 6 by utilizing an upward airflow directed upward from within the bathtub body 6. Thereby, without physically disposing a structure for forming the rising cloud-like mist body within the bathtub body 6, the rising cloud-like mist body can be formed so as to rise from the bathtub body 6.

[0081] In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, the mist device 1 forms an upward airflow directed upward from within the bathtub body 6 due to the temperature difference between the temperature of the water stored in the bathtub body 6 and the temperature of the bathroom in which the bathtub body 6 is used before the start of mist supply. Thereby, the rising cloud-like mist body can be formed so as to rise from the bathtub body 6 by the upward airflow.

[0082] In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, after the mist device 1 forms a mist retention layer C of the supplied mist within the retention space 4 of the bathtub body 6, the mist device 1 is configured to raise a part of the mist within the retention space 4 above the water overflow portion of the bathtub body 6. As a result, a part of the mist within the retention space 4 after the retention layer C is formed rises above the overflow portion and vaporizes, and the vicinity of the user's face can be cooled by this heat of vaporization, and the body can be warmed as a mist bath by the mist retention layer C. Therefore, the comfort of the user during the mist bath can be further improved.

[0083] In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, the mist device 1 causes an upward airflow that raises a part of the mist in the bathtub main body 6 due to the temperature difference between the ambient temperature of the mist in the bathtub main body 6 supplied from the mist supply unit 10 and the temperature in the bathroom where the bathtub main body 6 is used in a state where a mist retention layer is formed. Thereby, the mist in the bathtub main body 6 can be easily raised from the bathtub main body 6 by the upward airflow.

[0084] In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, after forming the mist retention layer C, the mist device 1 can also supply mist from the inside of the bathtub main body 6 to the floor surface in the bathroom where the bathtub main body 6 is disposed. Thereby, the mist can be vaporized also from the floor surface in the bathroom, and the space in the bathroom can be cooled more efficiently by the heat of vaporization. Therefore, the face of the user coming out of the bathtub main body 6 can be cooled more, and the body can be warmed as a mist bath by the mist retention layer C. Therefore, the comfort of the user during mist bathing can be further improved.

[0085] In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, the retention boundary surface 66 of the mist retention layer is formed at a position higher than the overflow portion of the bathtub main body 6. Thereby, at the time of mist retention, the body of the user can be warmed as a mist bath up to the mist retention boundary surface 66 at a position higher than the overflow portion of the bathtub main body 6.

[0086] In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, the lower end of the mist supply unit 10 is disposed above the overflow portion of the bathtub main body 6. Thereby, compared with the case where the lower end of the mist supply unit 10 is located below the overflow portion, it is possible to easily form the retention boundary surface 66 at a position higher than the overflow portion with a smaller mist flow rate.

[0087] Further, one embodiment of the present invention is a mist system 2, which is characterized by including the mist device 1 of one embodiment of the present invention and a bathtub main body 66 that forms a retention space 4 for receiving the mist supplied from the mist supply unit 1010 of the mist device 1.

[0088] In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, the inner side wall of the bathtub main body 6 facing the mist supply unit 10 is formed to incline outward upward. As a result, the mist supplied from the mist supply unit 10 can easily rise along the inner side wall above the overflow portion of the bathtub main body 6, and it is easy to form a rising cloud-like mist body.

[0089] In one embodiment of the present invention configured as described above, the mist supply unit 10 of the mist device 1 is arranged on the short side of the bathtub main body 6. As a result, the mist supply unit 10 can supply mist toward the long side of the bathtub main body 6, and even if the mist rises upward above the bathtub main body 6, it can easily float above the bathtub main body 6. Conversely, when the mist supply unit 10 is arranged on the long side of the bathtub main body 6, the rising mist tends to go toward the washroom side outside the bathtub main body 6.

Explanation of reference numerals

[0090] 1: Mist device 2: Mist system 3: Bathroom 4: Retention space 6: Bathtub main body 6b: Surface 8: Mist generation unit 10: Mist supply unit 66: Retention boundary surface A: User B: Water C: Retention layer R: Rising cloud-like mist body X: Warm water layer

Claims

1. A bathtub body, a mist device used for this bathtub body, and a bathroom air conditioner provided above the bathroom where the bathroom body and the mist device are arranged to adjust the temperature in the bathroom, a mist system having: The mist device includes a mist generation unit that generates mist, and a mist supply unit that supplies the mist generated by the mist generation unit into the bathtub body that forms a retention space with an open upper part. After the mist supplied from the mist supply unit forms a rising cloud-like state of the mist rising above the overflow part of the bathtub body, the supplied mist forms a mist retention layer in the retention space of the bathtub body. The mist device forms a rising cloud-like state of the mist rising above the overflow part of the bathtub body by using the upward airflow in which the mist supplied from the mist supply unit goes upward from within the bathtub body. The bathroom air conditioner controls the strength of the upward airflow directed upward from within the bathtub body by the temperature difference between the temperature of the water stored in the bathtub and the temperature of the bathroom in which the bathtub body is used before the start of mist supply, by adjusting the temperature in the bathroom. A mist system.

2. The mist device is configured such that after the supplied mist forms a mist retention layer in the retention space of the bathtub body, a part of the mist in the retention space is configured to rise above the overflow part of the water in the bathtub body. The mist device according to claim 1.

3. The mist device is configured to generate an upward airflow in the mist in the bathtub body by the temperature difference between the ambient temperature of the mist in the bathtub body supplied from the mist supply unit and the temperature of the bathroom in which the bathtub body is used in a state where a mist retention layer is formed. The mist device according to claim 2.

4. The mist device supplies mist from within the bathtub body to the floor surface of the bathroom in which the bathtub body is arranged after forming a mist retention layer in the retention space of the bathtub body. The mist device according to claim 1.

5. The retention boundary surface on the upper side of the mist retention layer is formed at a position higher than the overflow part of the bathtub body. The mist device according to claim 4.

6. The lower end of the mist supply unit is arranged above the overflow part of the bathtub body. The mist device according to claim 5.

7. The inner side wall of the bathtub main body facing the mist supply part is formed to incline outward upward, the mist system according to claim 1.

8. The mist supply part of the mist device is arranged on the short side of the bathtub main body, the mist system according to claim 1.

Images