Mist generation system, and bathroom and shower room unit equipped with the same

Abstract

To provide a mist generation system enabling to enjoy mist bath under a variety of use environments.SOLUTION: A mist generation system causes mist to stay in a mist retention space (4) provided indoors, and has: a mist generator (1) which generates mist and flows the generated mist into the mist retention space; an indoor temperature adjusting device (29) adjusting temperature indoors; a controller (26) which controls the mist generator and the indoor temperature adjusting device so that mist generated by the mist generator stays in the mist retention space.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a mist generation system, and more particularly to a mist generation system for retaining mist in a mist retention space provided indoors, and a bathroom and a shower room unit equipped with the same.

Background Art

[0002] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2008-018130 (Patent Document 1) describes a bathtub sauna device. In this bathtub sauna device, mist is sent into a bathtub body covered with a bathtub lid, and the inside of the bathtub body can be used as a sauna space to take a sauna bath in the bathtub body.

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 described in Patent Document 1, in order to use the inside of the bathtub body as a sauna space, it is necessary to arrange a bathtub lid on the bathtub body, which restricts the position of the user and cannot provide sufficient comfort to the user. On the other hand, when the bathtub sauna device described in Patent Document 1 is used without arranging a bathtub lid, the present inventors have found that the mist sent into the bathtub may not stay in the bathtub body depending on the use environment, and a satisfactory mist bath cannot be taken.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a mist generation system that can enjoy a mist bath in various use environments, and a bathroom and a shower room unit equipped with the same.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention is a mist generation system for retaining mist in a mist retention space provided indoors, comprising a mist generation device that generates mist and causes the generated mist to flow into the mist retention space, an indoor temperature adjustment device that adjusts the temperature of the room, and a control device that controls the mist generation device and the indoor temperature adjustment device so that the mist generated by the mist generation device stays in the mist retention space.

[0007] When the mist is caused to flow into the indoor mist retention space by the mist generation device, the inventor of the present case has found that depending on the usage environment, the mist may diffuse without staying in the mist retention space, and a mist bath cannot be formed. As a result of intensive research on this phenomenon, the inventor of the present case has found that the temperature of the mist flowing out from the mist generation device is related to the temperature of the room.

[0008] For example, when hot mist is caused to flow out into a low-temperature space, the temperature of the portion where the mist has flowed out (mist atmosphere temperature) rises. On the other hand, since the temperature of the indoor air is low, an upward airflow is generated due to this temperature difference. When the temperature difference is large and this upward airflow becomes strong, the mist flowing out from the mist generation device does not stay in the space, and the mist diffuses throughout the indoor space, making it impossible to form a mist bath. According to the present invention configured as described above, the control device controls the mist generation device and the indoor temperature adjustment device so that the mist generated by the mist generation device stays in the mist retention space, so that it is possible to suppress the diffusion of the outflowing mist, and a mist bath can be enjoyed in various usage environments.

[0009] In the present invention, preferably, the mist retention space is the space inside the bathtub arranged in the bathroom, and further has a temperature sensor that detects the temperature in the bathroom. When the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is lower than a predetermined temperature before the mist is caused to flow out from the mist generation device, the control device operates the indoor temperature adjustment device to raise the temperature in the bathroom.

[0010] In the present invention configured as described above, when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is lower than a predetermined temperature before the mist is allowed to flow out from the mist generating device, the control device operates the indoor temperature adjusting device to raise the temperature in the bathroom. For this reason, the temperature difference between the temperature of the mist flowing out from the mist generating device and the temperature in the bathroom can be maintained within an appropriate range, and the diffusion of the mist can be suppressed. Further, when the bathtub is filled with hot water to about half and the space above it is used as a mist retention space, a relatively strong upward air current is generated also due to the temperature difference between the hot water in the bathtub and the air in the bathroom. According to the present invention configured as described above, since the indoor temperature adjusting device is operated to raise the temperature in the bathroom, this temperature difference can also be alleviated, the diffusion of the mist can be suppressed, and a mist bath can be enjoyed even in the bathtub filled with hot water.

[0011] In the present invention, preferably, when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is lower than a predetermined temperature, the control device operates the indoor temperature adjusting device to raise the temperature in the bathroom to a temperature equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature, and then starts the outflow of the mist from the mist generating device.

[0012] According to the present invention configured as described above, after the temperature in the bathroom has been raised to a temperature equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature, the outflow of the mist from the mist generating device is started. Therefore, the mist flowing out from the mist generating device can be guided into the bathtub from the beginning, and the mist generated by the mist generating device can be retained without waste.

[0013] In the present invention, preferably, the indoor temperature adjusting device is configured to raise the indoor temperature by discharging warm air, and the indoor temperature adjusting device is configured to send the warm air outward of the mist retention space.

[0014] When a heating device that discharges warm air is used as an indoor temperature adjustment device, while the temperature in the bathroom can be set to an appropriate temperature, the discharged warm air may blow away the mist discharged into the mist retention space, preventing the mist from staying. According to the present invention configured as described above, the indoor temperature adjustment device discharges warm air toward the outside of the mist retention space, so that while setting the temperature in the bathroom to an appropriate temperature, it is possible to suppress the warm air from preventing the mist from staying.

[0015] In the present invention, preferably, the indoor temperature adjustment device is configured to discharge warm air toward the washbasin in the bathroom. According to the present invention configured as described above, the indoor temperature adjustment device discharges warm air toward the washbasin in the bathroom, so that while setting the temperature in the bathroom to an appropriate temperature, it is possible to suppress the warm air from preventing the mist from staying in the bathtub body.

[0016] In the present invention, preferably, the control device is configured to be able to set a preparation mode for preparing the discharge of mist by the mist generator, and when the preparation mode is set, if the indoor temperature is lower than a predetermined temperature, the control device automatically operates the indoor temperature adjustment device to raise the indoor temperature.

[0017] According to the present invention configured as described above, the preparation mode can be set, and when the preparation mode is set, if the indoor temperature becomes lower than a predetermined temperature, the indoor temperature adjustment device is automatically operated to raise the indoor temperature. Therefore, when the user wants to take a mist bath, the mist bath can be started with a short waiting time.

[0018] In the present invention, preferably, in the above preparation mode, the control device controls the indoor temperature adjustment device to maintain the indoor temperature at a predetermined temperature.

[0019] According to the present invention configured as described above, in the preparation mode, since the indoor temperature is maintained at a predetermined temperature, it is possible to prevent the temperature in the bathroom from rising too much during the setting of the preparation mode and giving discomfort to the user taking a bath.

[0020] In the present invention, preferably, when the temperature in the room becomes lower than a predetermined temperature while mist is being discharged from the mist generating device, the control device activates the indoor temperature adjusting device to raise the temperature in the room.

[0021] According to the present invention configured as described above, when the temperature in the room becomes lower than a predetermined temperature during the discharge of mist, the temperature in the room is raised. Therefore, even during the discharge of mist, it is possible to prevent the temperature difference between the temperature of the mist and the temperature in the room from becoming large, and it is possible to maintain an environment in which the mist can be retained in the bathtub.

[0022] In the present invention, preferably, when mist is being discharged from the mist generating device, the control device controls the indoor temperature adjusting device so that the temperature in the room is maintained at a predetermined temperature or higher.

[0023] According to the present invention configured as described above, even during the discharge of mist, since the temperature in the room is maintained at a predetermined temperature or higher, it is possible to maintain an environment in which the mist can be retained in the mist retention space, and the mist can be stably retained in the mist retention space.

[0024] In the present invention, preferably, further, a ventilation device for ventilating the room is provided, and when mist is being discharged from the mist generating device, the control device stops the ventilation device or reduces the ventilation efficiency of the ventilation device so as not to prevent the retention of the mist in the mist retention space.

[0025] Normally, a ventilation device is provided in the room. However, when ventilation is performed while the mist generating device is discharging mist, there is a risk that the airflow of the ventilation may prevent the retention of the mist in the mist retention space. According to the present invention configured as described above, when mist is being discharged, the ventilation device is stopped or the ventilation efficiency of the ventilation device is reduced, so it is possible to suppress the prevention of the retention of the mist due to ventilation.

[0026] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a bathroom equipped with a mist generation function, comprising a bathtub, the mist generation system of the present invention for retaining mist in a mist retention space inside the bathtub, and a wall member surrounding the bathtub.

[0027] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a shower room unit equipped with a mist generation function, comprising a shower water discharge device, a wall member surrounding the shower water discharge device, and the mist generation system of the present invention for retaining mist in a mist retention space inside the wall member.

Advantages of the Invention

[0028] According to the mist generation system of the present invention, and the bathroom and shower room unit equipped therewith, a mist bath can be enjoyed in various usage environments.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0029]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0030] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a mist generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, and a bathroom and a shower room unit equipped therewith will be described. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a unit bath which is a bathroom incorporating a mist generation system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the mist generation system according to the first embodiment of the present invention as seen from the side.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 1, a bathtub device 2 which is a plumbing fixture to which a mist generation device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention is applied is provided in a bathroom 3. The bathroom 3 is a box-shaped space and forms an indoor space 5 which is sealed to a certain extent for using water inside. The water includes water having a temperature higher than the outside air temperature (normal temperature), and heated water (so-called hot water). An operation unit 28 for operating the mist generation device 1 is provided in the bathroom 3. Further, an indoor temperature adjustment device 29 and a ventilation device 31 are attached to the ceiling surface of the bathroom 3.

[0032] Further, the operation unit 28 is connected to a control unit 26 which is a control device, and the control unit 26 is configured to control the mist generation device 1, the indoor temperature adjustment device 29, and the ventilation device 31 based on an operation on the operation unit 28. The mist generation device 1, the indoor temperature adjustment device 29, and the ventilation device 31 constitute a mist generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Further, the bathtub device 2 and the bathroom 3 (wall members constituting the same) incorporating the mist generation system of the present embodiment constitute a unit bath having a mist generation function according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] The operation unit 28 can also perform operations such as water storage operation and temperature setting for the bathtub device 2. The 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. The operation unit 28 may be provided outside the bathroom 3 or may be a remote operation unit such as a remote control. The bathtub device 2 is provided with a supply device 7 for supplying water. The bathtub device 2 further includes a bathtub main body 6 that forms a mist retention space 4 for receiving the mist supplied from the mist generator 1. Note that examples of water-related devices to which the mist generator 1 of the present embodiment can be applied include a bathroom, a toilet, a washroom, a kitchen, and the like. In this case, the mist generator 1 is provided to supply mist to the bathtub main body of the water-related device, the bathroom floor of the wash area, the shower room, the washbasin bowl, the washstand bowl, the kitchen sink, and the like. Also, 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 washstand, or a combination thereof.

[0034] The bathtub main body 6 forms a mist retention space 4 that is open upward toward the indoor space 5 in which the bathtub main body 6 of the bathtub device 2 is arranged. The bathtub main body 6 is a bathtub (bathtub), and water can be stored in the inner mist retention space 4. The bathtub main body 6 is formed in a rectangular shape in a top view, with a long-side portion 6d formed on the long-side of the rectangle and a short-side portion 6e formed on the short-side.

[0035] The mist retention space 4 is a space formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape inside the bathtub main body 6. As shown in FIG. 2, when the user A takes a bath, water B at 34°C to 45°C is stored in the lower side of the mist retention space 4, and the user A can take a bath while sitting. As will be described later, in FIG. 2, a mist is retained above the water B in the mist retention space 4 (a state in which a mist retention layer C is formed). The mist retention space 4 is formed up to the upper end portion 6a of the bathtub main body 6 and is open upward. The mist generator 1 of the present embodiment is configured to be able to retain mist in the mist retention space 4 even when a bathtub lid covering the top surface of the mist retention space 4 is not arranged on the bathtub main body 6.

[0036] Note that only mist may be retained in the mist retention space 4 without storing water B. The shape of the bathtub main body 6 is not limited to the box shape as in the embodiment, and any shape that can form a retention space is acceptable. For example, the bathtub main body 6 may be formed in a circular or elliptical shape when viewed from above, and a bowl-shaped mist retention space may be formed inside. The bottom surface of the bathtub main body 6 may be formed obliquely so that the user can take a posture close to the lying bath posture or sitting posture, a step portion may or may not be formed on the bottom surface. Also, the upper edge of the bathtub main body 6 does not have to be formed horizontally at a constant height and may be formed so that the height changes. For example, the upper edge of the bathtub main body 6 may be shaped to extend obliquely upward or downward, extend in an arcuate shape with a part concave downward, or form a substantially right angle when viewed from the side.

[0037] The mist generating device 1 includes a mist generating device main body 8 in which mist is generated inside, and a mist discharge passage 10 that discharges the mist into the mist retention space in the bathtub main body 6 with an open upper side. Inside the mist generating device main body 8, mist is generated from heated water. Also, the mist generating device main body 8 is disposed at the short side portion 6e on the short side of the bathtub main body 6. A pedestal-shaped portion for disposing the mist generating device main body 8 is formed above the short side portion 6e.

[0038] A tank 12, which is a water storage portion for storing water to be made into mist, is provided inside the mist generating device main body 8. A water supply passage 14 for supplying water from a water supply source to the tank 12 and a drain passage 16 for draining water from the tank 12 to a drain pipe are connected. Also, an ultrasonic vibrator 18, a heater 20, a float switch 21 which is a water level sensor, and a water temperature measuring device 22 which is a water temperature detecting means are provided inside the tank 12. Further, an indoor temperature measuring device 24 which is a temperature sensor is provided outside the tank 12. Also, the ultrasonic vibrator 18 and the heater 20 are controlled by a control unit 26.

[0039] Inside the mist generating device main body 8, a rectangular parallelepiped-shaped tank 12 is formed, and a water supply passage 14 and a drainage passage 16 are connected to the side wall of the mist generating device main body 8. Also, a mist discharge passage 10 is connected to the side wall of the mist generating device main body 8. Further, a water supply passage opening / closing valve 30 for opening and closing the water supply passage 14 is provided in the water supply passage 14. A drainage passage opening / closing valve 32 for opening and closing the drainage passage 16 is provided in the drainage passage 16. The specific structure inside the mist generating device main body 8 will be described later.

[0040] The ultrasonic vibrator 18 is attached upward to the bottom surface inside the tank 12 and is configured to irradiate ultrasonic waves toward the water surface of the water stored in the tank 12. When ultrasonic waves are irradiated by the ultrasonic vibrator 18, a liquid column is formed on the water surface of the tank 12 directly above the ultrasonic vibrator 18, and mist (fog) of a predetermined particle size of water in the form of fine particles is generated around this liquid column. The ultrasonic vibrator 18 is electrically connected to the control unit 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. Also, in the present embodiment, five ultrasonic vibrators 18 are arranged in a straight line inside the tank 12.

[0041] The control unit 26 is configured to heat the water inside the tank 12 by passing an electric current through the heater 20 and control the temperature of the water inside the tank 12 to a predetermined temperature. For example, the heater 20 can heat the supplied water (for example, room temperature water of about 20°C) to 60°C or higher above room temperature. Also, for example, the control unit 26 can perform temperature control on the water once heated to 60°C or higher by the heater 20 so that the temperature difference between room temperature and the water temperature becomes a predetermined temperature. Therefore, in the mist generating device main body 8, the water heated to 60°C or higher is temperature-controlled, and mist is generated from the temperature-controlled water. Note that the present invention can also be configured such that water heated to 60°C or higher in a water heater is supplied to the mist generating device main body 8 and mist is generated from that water.

[0042] The control unit 26 can heat the water in the tank 12 to a temperature equal to or higher than room temperature and generate a mist that produces an upward airflow at a temperature equal to or higher than room temperature, and has a function of controlling the temperature of the mist according to the state such as the particle size of the mist so that the mist is likely to stay. Since the water is heated to 60°C or higher, it is also possible to take measures to suppress the growth of at least some bacteria (for example, Legionella bacteria). Note that the step of the heater 20 once heating the water (or mist) to 60°C or higher may be omitted, and instead, other bacteria suppression means, for example, a sterilization means using UV light, a bacteria suppression means for adding a bactericide, etc. may be provided.

[0043] In addition, the present invention can also be configured by providing the heater 20 at a position higher than the water level of the water in the tank 12 so that the mist generated from the water is heated. At this time, the heater 20 can heat the mist generated from the water to 60°C or higher. Further, for example, the control unit 26 can control the temperature of the mist by the heater 20 so that the temperature difference between the temperature of the mist and the room temperature becomes a predetermined temperature.

[0044] The water temperature measuring device 22 detects the water temperature of the water in the tank 12. The control unit 26 is electrically connected to the water temperature measuring device 22, and the control unit 26 can recognize the water temperature of the water in the tank 12. The room temperature measuring device 24 detects the temperature of the air outside the mist generating device main body 8 in the indoor space 5 where the bathtub main body 6 is arranged. The control unit 26 is electrically connected to the room temperature measuring device 24, and the control unit 26 can recognize the temperature of the air in the indoor space 5. Note that in the state before the start of the supply of the mist (before the mist generating device 1 is operated), since it is assumed that the temperature of the air in the indoor space 5 and the temperature of the air in the mist staying space 4 are almost equal or relatively close, the control unit 26 can estimate the temperature of the air in the mist staying space 4 from the temperature of the air in the indoor space 5 measured by the room temperature measuring device 24.

[0045] Further, the control unit 26 is configured to control the water supply path opening and closing valve 30, which is a water supply valve, and the ultrasonic vibrator 18. Further, the float switch 21 detects the water level in the tank 12, and when the water level in the tank 12 drops to a predetermined water level, it detects this and outputs a detection signal to the control unit 26. The control unit 26 controls the water supply path opening and closing valve 30 so that the water level of the water stored in the tank 12 is maintained within an appropriate range based on the detection signal of the float switch 21. The control of the water supply path opening and closing valve 30 by the control unit 26 will be described later.

[0046] The control unit 26 incorporates a CPU, a memory, etc., and generates mist based on a predetermined control program recorded in the memory, etc. The control unit 26 is electrically connected to the ultrasonic vibrator 18, the heater 20, the water temperature measuring device 22, the room temperature measuring device 24, the operation unit 28, etc. The control unit 26 is further electrically connected to the water supply path opening and closing valve 30 provided in the water supply path 14 and the drain path opening and closing valve 32 provided in the drain path, and controls these.

[0047] The mist discharge passage 10 discharges the mist generated by the mist generating device main body 8 toward the room in which the bathtub main body 6 is arranged, and allows it to flow into the mist retention space 4 in the bathtub main body 6 with an open upper portion. As shown by the cross-section of the flow path shown in FIG. 2, the mist discharge passage 10 is a passage extending from the mist generating device main body 8 to the upper part of one end of the mist retention space 4. The opening of the mist discharge passage 10 is formed in a horizontally long rectangle along the short side portion 6e of the bathtub main body 6. The opening is formed to have a width covering substantially the entire short side portion 6e. The mist discharge passage 10 is arranged above the overflow portion 6c of the water in the bathtub main body 6. In the present embodiment, this overflow portion 6c is the overflow surface 6b of the bathtub main body 6. As a modification, the overflow portion 6c may be an overflow port provided in the bathtub main body 6.

[0048] The mist generator 1 is configured to supply mist to a mist retention space 4 of 1 L (liter) at a flow rate of, for example, 0.03 mL / min to 1.5 mL / min. For example, for a bathtub body 6 having a mist retention space 4 with a volume of 330 L, the mist generator 1 supplies mist at a flow rate of 11 mL / min. Further, the flow rate (supply amount) of the mist can be controlled by the number of ultrasonic vibrators 18, the output, the direction of ultrasonic irradiation, the water level in the tank 12, or the flow path shape in the mist generator body 8 or in the mist discharge passage 10, etc.

[0049] Inside the mist generator body 8, mist in a heated state is generated, the temperature of the mist is controlled, and this mist is made easier to stay in the mist retention space 4. This will be described. The mist generator 1 is configured such that the temperature difference between the temperature of the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 to the mist retention space 4 and the temperature of the room inside where the water-related equipment is used before the start of mist supply is 0°C or more, and the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 stays in the mist retention space 4 of the bathtub body 6. Further, the mist generator 1 is configured to generate a temperature difference such that the force of the upward airflow generated by the temperature difference to raise the mist does not exceed the weight of the mist corresponding to the particle size of the mist discharged from the mist discharge passage 10. By presetting the temperature of the water supplied to the mist generator body 8, the heating temperature by the heater 20, or the frequency of the ultrasonic vibrator 18 according to the assumed temperature range of the air in the indoor space 5, such mist supply may be achieved without using the indoor thermometer 24 (without relying on the measurement result of the indoor thermometer 24). Also, such mist supply may be achieved by adjusting the settings at the time of supply. The mist generator 1 is configured such that the temperature difference is preferably 100°C or less, more preferably 60°C or less, and even more preferably 45°C or less. The mist generator 1 generates mist in a heated state, controls the particle size of the mist, and makes this mist easier to stay in the mist retention space 4.

[0050] Next, the operation of the mist generator in the first embodiment of the present invention described above will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 8. FIGS. 3 to 8 are diagrams showing the state until the mist stays in the entire mist retention space 4 after the start of mist discharge. Since the basic structure of the mist generator 1 shown in FIGS. 3 to 8 is substantially the same as the basic structure of the mist generator 1 shown in FIG. 2, the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 2 are used in FIGS. 3 to 8 for description.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 2, in the standby state before the operation of the mist generator 1 starts, water at about 38° C. is stored in the lower half of the mist retention space 4 of the bathtub body 6. The temperature of the air in the indoor space 5 in the bathroom 3 and the temperature of the air in the mist retention space 4 are substantially equal. Also, in the standby state, the water supply passage opening / closing valve 30 and the drainage passage opening / closing valve 32 are closed, and there is no water in the tank 12. The ultrasonic vibrator 18 and the heater 20 are stopped.

[0052] The user operates the operation unit 28 to start the supply control of the mist of the mist generator 1. Before the start of mist supply, the room thermometer 24 measures the temperature of the air in the indoor space 5, and the temperature of the air in the indoor space 5 is input to the control unit 26. The control unit 26 opens the water supply passage opening / closing valve 30 and supplies water from the water supply passage 14 into the tank 12. Note that the drainage passage opening / closing valve 32 remains closed. When a predetermined amount of water is stored in the tank 12, the water supply passage opening / closing valve 30 is opened. Next, the 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 control unit 26 adjusts the temperature of the water in the tank 12 by starting and stopping the heater 20 so that the temperature difference between the temperature of the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 into the mist retention space 4 and the temperature in the bathroom 3 before the start of mist supply is 0° C. or higher. Next, the control unit 26 activates the ultrasonic vibrator 18 to generate mist in the tank 12.

[0053] FIG. 3 shows the state immediately after the supply of mist from the mist discharge passage 10 into the mist retention space 4 is started. The mist generated inside the mist generating device main body 8 is supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 to the mist retention space 4 inside the bathtub main body 6. The mist naturally overflows from the mist discharge passage 10 and is supplied into the mist retention space 4 while freely falling due to the self-weight of the mist 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 being stirred, diffused, or rising inside the mist retention space 4.

[0054] In FIG. 4, the state after about several seconds have elapsed since the start of mist supply is shown. The supply of mist from the mist supply section 10 to the retention space 4 is being continued. The supplied mist has started to stay above the water surface of the water B and in the lower part inside the retention space 4. Since the force attempting to raise the mist by the upward airflow does not exceed the weight of the mist supplied from the mist supply section 10, it has become easier for the mist to stay inside the mist retention space 4. Therefore, the mist stays in the relatively lower part inside the retention space 4. The mist is gradually supplied and added from the mist supply section 10 side and gradually advances from the mist supply section 10 side toward the short side on the opposite side on or above the water surface or at the bottom inside the retention space 4.

[0055] In FIG. 5, 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. 4 is shown. The supply of mist from the mist supply section 10 to the retention space 4 is being continued.

[0056] FIG. 6 shows the state after about 10 seconds have elapsed since the start of mist supply. As shown in FIG. 6, after a standing cumulus cloud-like body R (for example, an aggregate of mist with a predetermined density that rises further above the overflow surface 6b, which is the upper edge of the bathtub main body 6) has risen 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 dissipates, and for most of the mist, the gravity becomes greater than the force received by the mist from the upward airflow, and it gradually descends again toward the mist retention space 4 inside the bathtub main body 6. Also, some of the mist vaporizes and disappears during the movement.

[0057] As shown in Fig. 7, when mist is further supplied into the retention space 4 from the state of Fig. 6, the mist descending from the rising cloud-like mist body R returns to the retention space 4 again and stays there. Note that the mist device 1 may form a mist retention layer C without forming a rising cloud-like mist body.

[0058] Fig. 8 shows the state about 20 seconds after the start of mist supply. The supply of mist from the mist discharge passage 10 to the mist retention space 4 is continued, and the mist supplied into the mist retention space 4 stays up to a portion near the top (the upper end portion 6a of the bathtub body 6) in the mist retention space 4. The mist mainly stays in a region above the water surface of the water B and below the top of the mist retention space 4 in the mist retention space 4. The mist falls onto the water B and is absorbed, or adheres to the wall surface of the bathtub body 6 as water droplets and disappears, or diffuses beyond the edge of the upper end portion 6a of the bathtub body 6. The time until disappearance varies depending on the particle size of the mist. Although the mist disappears or diffuses in this way, 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 mist retention space 4 but not reaching the point of diffusing from the mist retention space 4. The retention layer C is formed by the presence of mist with a density of a certain level or more in a unit space above the water surface of the water B. The retention layer is recognized as a white cloud shape. The retention layer is formed such that the density of the mist is relatively high on the lower side and relatively low on the upper side. Due to the presence of the retention layer, it is visually recognized that the mist retention space 4 is filled up to the top.

[0059] The retention boundary surface 66 on the upper side of the retained mist is formed below the height position M1 (FIG. 2), which is obtained by adding the height corresponding to the depth L1 of the bathtub body 6 to the height (height position M0 (FIG. 2)) of the overflow surface 6b of the bathtub body 6. The retention boundary surface 66 indicates the boundary region between the retention layer C in which the mist has a concentration equal to or higher than a certain level in the air and the air layer J in which the mist has a concentration lower than a certain level in the air. Since the retention boundary surface 66 moves to some extent while the mist is retained, it is defined as a region having a somewhat height in the vertical direction and is defined as a region spreading in the horizontal direction. Note that the overflow surface 6b of the bathtub body 6 is the portion with the lowest height among the side walls of the bathtub body 6, that is, the portion where water first overflows when it accumulates up to the upper limit of the bathtub body 6.

[0060] Also, 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 of the bathtub body 6. Further, the retention boundary surface 66 on the upper side of the retained mist is formed below the height position (height positions M2 to M3 (FIG. 2)), which is obtained by adding a numerical value between 100 mm and 200 mm to the height (height position M0) of the overflow surface 6b of the bathtub body 6. When the retention boundary surface 66 is at a position higher than the height of the overflow surface 6b of the bathtub 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 generating device 1 is operating (in use), mist is supplied into the bathtub body 6 and the retention of the mist continues. The mist generating device 1 is configured to define the temperature difference between the temperature of the mist and the temperature of the room, the particle size of the mist, the supply amount of the mist, etc., such that the height position of the retention boundary surface 66 becomes the predetermined height position as described above.

[0061] Next, with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11, the measurement methods for the temperature of the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 to the mist retention space 4 and the temperature of the room in which the bathtub device 2 is used before the start of the mist supply will be described. FIGS. 9 to 11 are diagrams showing the measurement methods for the temperature of the mist and the temperature of the room before the start of the mist supply.

[0062] The temperature of the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 to the mist retention space 4 is measured using a box-shaped device 35 corresponding to the shape of the assumed plumbing equipment. The box-shaped device 35 includes a virtual retention space 34 that simulates the shape of the mist retention space of the assumed plumbing equipment, and a K thermocouple 36 that is disposed at the center of the virtual retention space 34 and measures the temperature.

[0063] The virtual retention space 34 is formed by simulating the shape of the actual mist retention space 4 while reducing the size. The size and shape of the virtual retention space are determined by the assumed plumbing equipment, and are determined to correspond to the size and shape of, for example, the bathtub in the case of the bathtub device 2, the bathroom wash floor, the shower room, the wash sink in the case of the washbasin, and the kitchen sink in the case of the kitchen. The virtual retention space 34 forms, for example, a rectangle with a short side of 120 mm and a long side of 300 mm in a top view, and a rectangular parallelepiped with a height of 120 mm and a long side of 300 mm in a front view. The ceiling surface of the virtual retention space 34 of the box-shaped device 35 is omitted and opened. At the center position of such a virtual retention space 34, the temperature sensing part of the K thermocouple 36 is disposed to measure the temperature of the air in the virtual retention space 34.

[0064] The K thermocouple 36 is located at a position 60 mm inward from the side wall in the direction along the short side, a position 150 mm inward from the side wall in the direction along the long side, and a position 60 mm upward from the bottom in the height direction in a top view. For example, the size of the temperature sensing part of the K thermocouple is φ4.5 mm × 50 mm. The K thermocouple 36 is electrically connected to a temperature logger (not shown). For example, the measurement data of the K thermocouple 36 (model number L-TN-4-K manufactured by AS ONE Corporation) is measured and recorded by a temperature logger (NR-500 series NR-TH08 manufactured by KEYENCE Corporation), and the information of the temperature logger is recorded in a personal computer. The water that generates the mist is tap water, and the water quality of the water that generates the mist is based on the water quality of tap water. Further, in the room where each measurement method (measurement method) is implemented, no air flow such as air conditioning that generates an air flow in the room is supplied.

[0065] Next, FIG. 12 shows an example of the measurement results of the mist temperature. In FIG. 12, the vertical axis represents the temperature (mist atmosphere temperature) measured by the K thermocouple 36 in the virtual residence space 34 [°C], and the horizontal axis represents the elapsed time [s] from the start of measurement. As shown in FIG. 12, the temperature measured by the K thermocouple 36 starts to rise when the supply of mist is started from the mist generator 1 of the present embodiment into the virtual residence space 34 of the box-shaped device 35, and when sufficient time has elapsed (for example, 2500 [s] has elapsed), it becomes almost a constant value. In the present embodiment, the mist atmosphere temperature T1 (43°C in the example of FIG. 12), which is the highest temperature when the rise in the measured temperature has almost stopped, is regarded as the temperature of the mist supplied from the mist generator 1 to the mist residence space 4.

[0066] In the measurement example of the mist atmosphere temperature shown in FIG. 12, the indoor temperature T0 at the start is -5°C, and the initial mist temperature generated in the mist generator main body 8 is 60°C. The temperature of the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 to the mist residence space is a slightly lowered temperature, and this temperature is measured as the mist atmosphere temperature. After the mist supply is started, as time passes, the temperature in the virtual residence space 34 rises, and the temperature rise converges to a substantially constant value T1. When the supply of mist from the mist generator 1 continues, the value at which the temperature measured in the virtual residence space 34 converges is the temperature of the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 to the virtual residence space 34. Therefore, it is assumed that the temperature of the mist actually supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 to the mist residence space 4 is the temperature of the mist (mist atmosphere temperature) measured in the virtual residence space 34.

[0067] Next, a method for measuring the temperature of the room in which the plumbing equipment is used before the start of mist supply will be described. The temperature of the room in which the plumbing equipment is used before the start of mist supply is measured by a K-type thermocouple 50 for room temperature (Figs. 9 to 11) arranged outside the virtual residence space 34 in the room where the plumbing equipment is used. The K-type thermocouple 50 for room temperature outside the virtual residence space 34 is arranged in the same indoor space as the box-shaped device 35 and simulates the indoor thermometer 24. Therefore, the temperature measured by the K-type thermocouple 50 for room temperature corresponds to the temperature of the room measured by the indoor thermometer 24. In simulations using a virtual residence space or the like, the temperature measured by this K-type thermocouple 50 for room temperature is used as the temperature of the room. The K-type thermocouple 50 for room temperature is arranged at the height of the top of the virtual residence space 34. In a top view, it is located at a position 60 mm away from the side wall in the direction along the short side and at a position 150 mm inward from the side wall at one end of the virtual residence space 34 in the direction along the long side. The K-type thermocouple 50 for room temperature is fixed outside the virtual residence space 34 by a support portion 38 extending outside the virtual residence space 34. The temperature of the room in which the plumbing equipment is used is measured by the K-type thermocouple 50 for room temperature before the start of mist supply to the virtual residence space 34. The K-type thermocouple for room temperature uses the same K-type thermocouple as the K-type thermocouple 36 in the virtual residence space. The K-type thermocouple 50 for room temperature is not limited to such a location and may be arranged at a position outside and in the vicinity of the mist generator main body 8. Also, since the K-type thermocouple 50 for room temperature only needs to be able to measure the temperature of the room in which the plumbing equipment is used before the start of mist supply, the temperature of the air in the virtual residence space 34 before the start of mist supply may be measured by the K-type thermocouple 36 arranged in the virtual residence space 34.

[0068] Next, with reference to Fig. 13, the range of the temperature difference (indicated by the region with dots in Fig. 13) between the temperature of the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 to the mist residence space 4 and the temperature of the room in which the plumbing equipment is used before the start of mist supply will be described. As described above, the temperature of the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 to the mist retention space 4 and the temperature of the room where the water-circulating equipment is used before the start of the mist supply can be defined. Therefore, the temperature difference between the temperature of these mists and the temperature of the room can be defined. By setting this temperature difference to 0°C or higher, the temperature of the mist adjusted after heating is set to the same temperature as the room temperature before the start of the mist supply or a higher temperature.

[0069] In FIG. 13, the vertical axis represents the temperature of the mist [°C], and the horizontal axis represents the temperature of the room [°C]. Further, line C1 in FIG. 13 is a line where the temperature difference between the temperature of the mist and the temperature of the room is 0°C. Therefore, the region above line C1 is the range where the temperature difference is 0°C or higher. Line C2 is a line where the temperature difference between the temperature of the mist and the temperature of the room is 100°C. The mist generator 1 is configured such that the temperature difference is 0°C or higher and 100°C or lower. By being able to set the temperature of the mist to a relatively high temperature up to 100°C, when using the mist for cleaning the bathtub body 6 of the water-circulating equipment, the cleaning performance of the mist and the ability to easily remove dirt can be improved. For example, a relatively high cleaning performance can be achieved by using a mist at a high temperature close to the boiling temperature of water. Note that when the mist reaches the boiling temperature (e.g., 100°C), it changes to the state of water vapor and the mist particles disappear, so the temperature of the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 is set to 100°C or lower (indicated by the region below line C5).

[0070] Also, the mist generator 1 is configured such that the temperature difference is 0°C or higher and 60°C or lower. A line C3 where the temperature difference between the temperature of the mist and the temperature of the room is 60°C is shown. By suppressing the use of a mist at a relatively high temperature where the temperature difference is up to 60°C, when using the mist for cleaning the bathtub body 6 of the water-circulating equipment, the possibility of burns can be further reduced while improving the cleaning performance of the mist.

[0071] Further, the mist generator main body 8 and the mist discharge passage 10 of the mist generator 1 are configured such that the temperature difference is 0°C or more and 45°C or less. A line C4 indicating that the temperature difference between the temperature of the mist and the indoor temperature is 45°C is shown. By using relatively low-temperature mist up to a temperature difference of 45°C, the possibility that the user of the water-related equipment is burned by the mist can be almost eliminated.

[0072] Also, in FIG. 13, if the temperature of the mist is set to 35 degrees or more (indicated by line D1) and 45 degrees or less (indicated by line D2), while setting it to about the body temperature of the user or a temperature warmer than the body temperature, the possibility that the user is burned by the mist can be almost eliminated.

[0073] Next, with reference to FIGS. 14 to 16, a measuring device and a measuring method for the particle size of the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 will be described. FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a measuring device for the particle size of the mist. As shown in FIG. 14, the measuring device 37 for the particle size of the mist 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 this box-shaped device 39, that is, the side wall of the virtual residence space 34, and a lid 55 is attached to this opening 52.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 15, the particle size distribution measuring device 53 includes a particle size measuring laser 54, and the particle size measuring laser 54 is arranged such that the measuring region E of the particle size measuring laser is located near and in front of the opening 52. The particle size measuring laser 54 is arranged such that, in a top view, the laser light 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 light 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 includes a measuring lens 56, and this measuring lens 56 is configured to detect the diffracted / scattered light of the laser light.

[0075] First, with the lid 55 attached to the opening 52, the supply of mist into the virtual retention space 34 is started. The supply port of the mist from the mist discharge passage 10 is not shown in the figure. One minute after the start of the mist supply, the lid 55 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% to 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 on a PC. The 10 times of particle size distribution data are averaged on the PC.

[0076] FIG. 16 shows an example of the particle size distribution data measured by the particle size distribution measuring device 53. In FIG. 16, 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 obtained in this way, and acquires the 20% tile value particle size G and the Sauter mean particle size H of this particle size distribution data as particle size data. The Sauter mean particle size indicates a 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 particles having a small number of large particle sizes can be suppressed.

[0077] The mist generating device 1 is configured such that most of the particle sizes of the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 are 3.1 μm or more and 40 μm or less. At the upper and lower limits of this range, in order to make it less susceptible to the influence on the measurement of a small number of large particle size particles and small particle size particles, the Sauter mean particle size of the mist is 40 μm or less, and the Sauter mean particle size of the mist is 3.1 μm or more. The particle size of the mist is defined so as to satisfy such conditions.

[0078] The mist generating device 1 is configured such that most of the particle sizes of the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 are 3.6 μm or more and 20 μm or less. At the upper and lower limits of this range, in order to make it less susceptible to the influence of a small number of large-particle-size particles or small-particle-size particles, the average value of the Sauter mean diameter and the Sauter mean diameter of the mist is 3.6 μm or more, and the Sauter mean diameter of the mist supplied from the mist supply section is 20 μm or less. The particle size of the mist is defined so as to satisfy such conditions.

[0079] The mist generating device 1 is configured such that most of the particle sizes of the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 are 4.1 μm or more and 10 μm or less. At the upper and lower limits of this range, in order to make it less susceptible to the influence of a small number of large-particle-size particles or small-particle-size particles, the Sauter mean diameter of the mist is 4.1 μm or more and 10 μm or less. The particle size of the mist is defined so as to satisfy such conditions.

[0080] Next, with reference to FIG. 17, the relationship between the temperature difference and the particle size will be described. In FIG. 17, the vertical axis represents the particle size [μm], and the horizontal axis represents the temperature difference ΔT [°C]. FIG. 17 shows the preferable ranges of these particle sizes and the temperature difference ΔT by a dotted area. With the mist generating device 1, a predetermined temperature difference can be set in the range where the temperature difference between the temperature of the mist and the temperature of the room is 0°C or more and 100°C or less. As described above, the temperature difference can be changed to 0°C or more and 60°C or less, 0°C or more and 45°C or less, etc.

[0081] The mist generating device 1 is configured such that the Sauter mean diameter of the mist is 40 μm or less. Therefore, most of the particle sizes of the mist are 40 μm or less. Incidentally, if the particle size of the mist is 40 μm, the terminal velocity v is obtained as 45.3 mm / s by the following calculation. The calculation method of the terminal velocity v of the water droplet can be expressed as follows. Let μ be the molecular viscosity coefficient of air and r be the radius of the water droplet (half of the particle size of the mist), then ρ = 103 kg / m -3 , g = 9.8 m / s2 、 μ = 1.8X10-5 N·sec / m 2 (at 15 °C), V(∞) = (2ρgr 2 ) / (9μ) = 1.2×10 8 r 2 and the terminal velocity v(∞) is proportional to the square of the radius of the water droplet. The range where this equation can be applied is Re < 1, that is, the range of r < 0.1 mm.

[0082] When the mist particle size is 40 μm and the terminal velocity of the mist is 45.3 mm / s, the supplied mist is assumed to reach the bottom of the mist retention space in approximately 10 seconds (for example, assume it is 45 cm from the mist discharge passage 10 to the bottom of the mist retention space 4), and the mist disappears. That is, the mist stays for at least about 10 seconds from the supply to the disappearance of the mist. If the mist stays for about 10 seconds like this, new mist can be supplied during this time, and it becomes easier to maintain the mist retention layer C. In Fig. 17, when the Sauter mean particle size of the mist is larger than 40 μm, the average time until the mist disappears becomes shorter, so it becomes more difficult to form a mist retention layer due to the disappearance of the mist.

[0083] The mist generating device 1 may be configured such that the Sauter mean particle size of the mist is 20 μm or less. At this time, most of the particle sizes of the mist are 20 μm or less. If the particle size of the mist is 20 μm, the terminal velocity v is obtained as 11.3 mm / s, and it will take at least about 40 seconds for the supplied mist to reach the bottom of the mist retention space, and the proportion of the mist that falls to the bottom of the mist retention space 4 relatively early can be further reduced.

[0084] The mist generating device 1 may be configured such that the outer average particle size of the mist is 10 μm or less. At this time, most of the particle sizes of the mist are 10 μm or less. If the particle size of the mist is 10 μm, the terminal velocity v is determined to be 2.8 mm / s, and it will take at least approximately 160 seconds for the supplied mist to reach the bottom of the mist retention space 4. Thus, the duration of the mist retained in the mist retention space 4 can be made longer, and the proportion of the mist that falls relatively early to the bottom of the mist retention space 4 can be further reduced.

[0085] The mist generating device 1 may be configured such that the outer average particle size of the mist is 3.1 μm or more. At this time, most of the particle sizes of the mist are 3.1 μm or more. Among the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10, the proportion of the mist that diffuses outside the mist retention space 4 without being retained in the mist retention space 4 can be reduced, and the proportion of the mist that is retained in the mist retention space 4 can be increased, so that the mist is efficiently retained in the mist retention space 4.

[0086] The mist generating device 1 may be configured such that the outer average particle size of the mist is 3.6 μm or more. At this time, most of the particle sizes of the mist are 3.6 μm or more. Among the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10, the proportion of the mist that diffuses outside the mist retention space 4 without being retained in the mist retention space 4 can be further reduced, and the proportion of the mist that is retained in the mist retention space 4 can be further increased, so that the mist is more efficiently retained in the mist retention space 4.

[0087] The mist generating device 1 may be configured such that the outer average particle size of the mist is 4.1 μm or more. At this time, most of the particle sizes of the mist are 4.1 μm or more. Among the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10, the proportion of the mist that diffuses outside the mist retention space 4 without being retained in the mist retention space 4 can be further reduced, and the proportion of the mist that is retained in the mist retention space 4 can be further increased, so that the mist is further efficiently retained in the mist retention space 4.

[0088] Next, with reference to FIGS. 18 and 19, the relationship between the temperature difference, the particle size, and the state of the mist in the virtual residence space 58 will be further described. FIG. 18 shows a box-shaped observation device for observing the state in the virtual residence space. FIG. 19 shows a comparison of the state of the mist in the virtual residence space 58 for nine combinations of the temperature difference and the Sauter mean particle size.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 19, the state of the mist in the virtual residence space 58 can be measured by a box-shaped observation device 55 corresponding to the shape of the assumed water-related equipment. The box-shaped observation device 55 includes a virtual residence space 58 that simulates the shape of the mist residence space of the assumed water-related equipment, and a camera 62 for observing and recording the state of the mist in the virtual residence space 58. As shown in FIG. 18, the virtual residence space 58 of the box-shaped observation device 55 has a short side of 120 mm, a long side of 300 mm, and a height of 240 mm. The ceiling surface of the virtual residence space 58 is omitted and it is open upward. One side wall of the virtual residence space 58 of the box-shaped observation device 55 is formed by a transparent plate 60, and the inside of the virtual residence space 58 can be observed and recorded by a camera 62 disposed obliquely above the box-shaped observation device 55. A supply port 64 having a width of 70 mm and a height of 40 mm is formed at a position 120 mm above the height of the short-side side wall of the virtual residence space 58 of the box-shaped observation device 55. This supply port 64 is connected to the mist discharge passage 10.

[0090] FIG. 19 shows a comparison of nine patterns of photographs in which mists having a predetermined particle size and temperature difference are supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 and the retention state is photographed by the camera 62. In each pattern of the photographic figure, the position where the retention interface is assumed to occur is indicated by a dotted line for reference. In FIG. 19, the vertical axis indicates the Sauter mean particle size of the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10, and the horizontal axis indicates the temperature difference ΔT between the temperature of the mist and the temperature of the room.

[0091] Pattern example A in Fig. 19 shows the state of the mist when the outer average particle size of the mist is 50 μm to 60 μm and the temperature difference is 5 °C (the temperature of the mist is 20 °C and the temperature in the room before the start of mist supply is 15 °C). In pattern example A, the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 drops relatively quickly toward the bottom in the virtual retention space 58 and disappears, so the mist does not remain in the virtual retention space 58. The timing of taking this photo is the time when 2 minutes have elapsed after the start of mist supply. Therefore, in pattern example A, a mist retention layer C that forms a retention boundary surface 66 on the upper surface in the virtual retention space 58 is not formed.

[0092] Pattern example B in Fig. 19 shows the state of the mist when the outer average particle size of the mist is 50 μm to 60 μm and the temperature difference is 25 °C (the temperature of the mist is 40 °C and the temperature in the room before the start of mist supply is 15 °C). In pattern example B, the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 drops relatively quickly toward the bottom in the virtual retention space 58 and disappears, so the mist does not remain in the virtual retention space 58.

[0093] Pattern example C in Fig. 19 shows the state of the mist when the outer average particle size of the mist is 50 μm to 60 μm and the temperature difference is 45 °C (the temperature of the mist is 60 °C and the temperature in the room before the start of mist supply is 15 °C). Also in pattern example C, the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 drops relatively quickly toward the bottom in the virtual retention space 58 and disappears, so the mist does not remain in the virtual retention space 58.

[0094] Pattern example D in Fig. 19 shows the state of the mist when the outer average particle size of the mist is 4 μm to 8 μm and the temperature difference is 5 °C (the temperature of the mist is 20 °C and the temperature in the room before the start of mist supply is 15 °C). In pattern example D, the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 forms a retention layer C in the virtual retention space 58 while having a slightly low concentration. Since the particle size of the mist is relatively small, the terminal velocity is also relatively small, and the falling speed is slow. On the other hand, the upward airflow generated by the temperature difference is also small. As a result, while the mist stays, a mist retention layer is formed in the virtual retention space 58 to form a retention boundary surface 66 on the upper surface.

[0095] Pattern example E in Fig. 19 shows the state of the mist when the outer average particle size of the mist is 4 μm to 8 μm and the temperature difference is 25 °C (the temperature of the mist is 40 °C and the temperature in the room before the start of mist supply is 15 °C). In pattern example E, the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 forms a retention layer C with a high concentration in the virtual retention space 58. Since the particle size of the mist is relatively small, the terminal velocity is also relatively small, and the falling speed is slow. A slight upward airflow is also generated by the temperature difference. Here, while the force of the upward airflow generated by the temperature difference trying to lift the mist does not exceed the weight of the mist, the falling of the mist is suppressed and the retention of the mist occurs relatively long. Therefore, a mist retention layer C is formed in the virtual retention space 58 to form a retention boundary surface 66 on the upper surface.

[0096] Pattern example F in Fig. 19 shows the state of the mist when the Sauter mean diameter of the mist is 4 μm to 8 μm and the temperature difference is 45 °C (the temperature of the mist is 60 °C and the temperature in the room before the start of mist supply is 15 °C). In pattern example F, the mist supplied from the mist supply unit forms a high-concentration retention layer C in the virtual retention space 58. Since the particle size of the mist is relatively small, the terminal velocity is also relatively small, and the falling speed is slow. Furthermore, the upward airflow generated by the temperature difference is slightly stronger than that in the case of a 25 °C temperature difference. However, still, the upward airflow generated by the temperature difference does not exceed the weight of the mist so as to prevent the mist from rising, suppressing the fall of the mist and causing the retention of the mist to occur for a relatively long time. Since the upward airflow is slightly stronger, there is a part where the mist locally rises from the retention layer C, but overall, the mist retention layer C is still maintained. Therefore, a mist retention layer is formed in the virtual retention space 58 to form a retention boundary surface 66 on the upper surface. If the retention boundary surface 66 is maintained in more than half of the region of the virtual retention space 58 even if there is a part where the mist locally rises, it is considered that the retention boundary surface 66 is formed.

[0097] Pattern example G in Fig. 19 shows the state of the mist when the Sauter mean diameter of the mist is 1.2 μm and the temperature difference is 5 °C (the temperature of the mist is 20 °C and the temperature in the room before the start of mist supply is 15 °C). In pattern example G, the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 diffuses and rises in the virtual retention space 58. The upward airflow generated by the temperature difference is relatively small. However, since the particle size of the mist is even smaller, the terminal velocity is even smaller, and the falling speed is even slower. Therefore, the weight of the mist is light, and it diffuses due to a slight upward airflow. Therefore, a mist retention layer C that forms a retention boundary surface 66 on the upper surface is not formed in the virtual retention space 58.

[0098] Pattern example H in Fig. 19 shows the state of the mist when the outer average particle size of the mist is 1.2 μm and the temperature difference is 25 °C (the temperature of the mist is 40 °C and the temperature in the room before the start of mist supply is 15 °C). In pattern example G, the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 diffuses so as to rise in the virtual retention space 58. Since the particle size of the mist is smaller, the terminal velocity is also smaller, and the falling speed is slower. Moreover, the upward airflow generated by the temperature difference is stronger. Therefore, the weight of the mist is light and it diffuses due to the stronger upward airflow. Therefore, a mist retention layer C that forms a retention boundary surface 66 on the upper surface in the virtual retention space 58 is not formed.

[0099] Pattern example I in Fig. 19 shows the state of the mist when the outer average particle size of the mist is 1.2 μm and the temperature difference is 45 °C (the temperature of the mist is 60 °C and the temperature in the room before the start of mist supply is 15 °C). In pattern example I, the mist supplied from the mist discharge passage 10 diffuses so as to rise in the virtual retention space 58. Since the particle size of the mist is smaller, the terminal velocity is also smaller, and the falling speed is slower. Moreover, the upward airflow generated by the temperature difference is stronger. Therefore, the weight of the mist is light and it diffuses due to the stronger upward airflow. Therefore, a mist retention layer C that forms a retention boundary surface on the upper surface in the virtual retention space 58 is not formed.

[0100] Next, with reference to Fig. 20, a determination device and its determination method for whether the mist is in a retained state (whether a mist retention layer C that forms a retention boundary surface 66 on the upper surface) in the mist retention space 4 (or virtual retention space, etc.) in the bathtub body 6 will be described.

[0101] As shown in Fig. 20, the internal transmittance measured inside the mist retention space 4 in the bathtub body 6 using the transmittance measuring device 68 and the external transmittance measured outside the mist retention space 4 are compared. When the internal transmittance is lower than the external transmittance, it can be determined that mist is retained inside the mist retention space 4. More specifically, when the internal transmittance / external transmittance < 1, it can be determined that mist is retained inside the mist retention space 4.

[0102] Next, with reference to Fig. 20, the transmittance measuring device 68 will be described. The transmittance measuring device 68 includes a first laser device 70 disposed inside the mist retention space 4 and a first transmittance measuring device 72 that receives the laser. The first laser device 70 and the first transmittance measuring device 72 are arranged horizontally 150 mm apart at a position 150 mm below the upper end of the mist retention space 4 (for example, at a depth position of about 30% of the depth of the mist retention space 4). The first laser device 70 and the first transmittance measuring device 72 are arranged near the center of the mist retention space 4 in a top view. The intensity of the laser light measured by the first transmittance measuring device 72 is measured with respect to the intensity of the laser light oscillated from the first laser device 70 to measure the transmittance.

[0103] The transmittance measuring device 68 further includes a second laser device 74 disposed outside the mist retention 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 arranged 150 mm apart horizontally at a position 150 mm above the upper end of the mist retention space 4 (for example, relative to the upper end of the mist retention space 4, at a position symmetric to the first laser device 70 and the first transmittance measuring device 72). The first laser device 70 and the first transmittance measuring device 72 are arranged near the center of the mist retention 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 emitted from the second laser device 74 to measure the transmittance. Note that the transmittance measuring device 68 arranges the first laser device 70 and the first transmittance measuring device 72 inside the mist retention space 4, but these devices may be arranged in a virtual retention space as described above instead of the mist retention space 4 to virtually predict and measure the transmittance. In this case, the second laser device 74 and the second transmittance measuring device 76 are arranged outside the virtual retention space.

[0104] As a more specific device configuration, the laser light emitted from a Keyence digital fiber amplifier FS-N11MN is oscillated through a Keyence FU-77TZ (the first laser device 70 or the second laser device 74) and received by a Keyence FU-77TZ (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 - 5 V is performed according to the light amount. The output voltage is measured by a Keyence NR-500 series NR-HA08 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, within 15 minutes after starting the supply of mist almost quantitatively, the transmittance data for 30 seconds that can be first determined to be in a steady state is averaged and calculated.

[0105] For example, as shown in the pattern example E of FIG. 19, when mist stays inside the mist retention space 4, the internal transmittance decreases. On the other hand, the mist mainly stays inside the mist 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 stays inside the mist retention space 4.

[0106] As shown in the pattern example A of FIG. 19, when no mist stays inside the mist retention space 4 and the mist mainly falls and disappears, both the internal transmittance and the external transmittance remain at relatively high values. Therefore, the internal transmittance / external transmittance = 1, and it is not determined that mist stays inside the mist retention space 4.

[0107] As shown in the pattern example I of FIG. 19, when mist diffuses from inside the mist retention space 4 to the outside, it is considered that both the internal transmittance and the external transmittance become similar values with slightly lower transmittance. Therefore, the internal transmittance / external transmittance = 1, and it is not determined that mist stays inside the mist retention space 4.

[0108] Next, with reference to FIGS. 21 to 25, the specific structures of the mist generator main body 8 and the mist discharge passage 10 of the mist generator 1 in the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 21 is a longitudinal sectional view of the mist generator main body 8 and the mist discharge passage 10 of the mist generator 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 22 is a perspective sectional view of the mist generator main body 8 and the mist discharge passage 10. FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the mist generator main body 8 shown in a state where the mist discharge passage 10 is removed. FIG. 24 is a perspective sectional view showing the internal structure of the mist generator main body 8. FIG. 25 is a perspective sectional view of the mist generator main body 8 and the mist discharge passage 10 as viewed obliquely from below.

[0109] As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the mist generator main body 8 of the mist generator 1 is formed in a generally rectangular parallelepiped box shape, and water to be turned into mist is stored in its lower part, and a tank 12 which is a water storage part is configured. A recess 12a is provided at the bottom of the tank 12, and an ultrasonic vibrator 18 is attached to the bottom surface of this recess 12a so as to face vertically upward. With this structure, the ultrasonic vibrator 18 irradiates ultrasonic waves toward the water surface W of the water stored in the tank 12, and a liquid column LC is formed on the water surface W vertically above the ultrasonic vibrator 18. Thus, the liquid column LC is formed on the water surface W of the tank 12 by the irradiation of ultrasonic waves, and mist is generated in the internal space of the mist generator main body 8 around this liquid column LC.

[0110] Also, as shown in FIG. 24, five recesses 12a are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the mist generator main body 8 at the bottom of the tank 12, and ultrasonic vibrators 18 are respectively provided at the bottoms of the respective recesses 12a. That is, five ultrasonic vibrators 18 are arranged in a straight line at the bottom of the mist generator main body 8. Further, partition walls 8b extending in the short side direction for partitioning the inside of the mist generator main body 8 are respectively provided between the respective recesses 12a (ultrasonic vibrators 18). Furthermore, a heater 20 is arranged at the bottom of the tank 12 so as to extend in the longitudinal direction of the mist generator main body 8. This heater 20 is arranged so as to extend parallel to the arrangement direction of the five ultrasonic vibrators 18. When the mist generator 1 is in operation, the water in the tank 12 is heated to a predetermined temperature by the heater 20.

[0111] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 21, an opening is provided at the upper part of one side surface of the mist generating device main body 8, and a mist discharge passage 10 is attached so as to cover this opening. The mist discharge passage 10 is attached to one side surface of the mist generating device main body 8 and is a duct having a substantially rectangular cross-section extending vertically downward from the mist generating device main body 8. The upper end portion of the mist discharge passage 10 communicates with the inside of the mist generating device main body 8 on the side surface, and a mist discharge port 10a directed vertically downward is provided at the lower end. Thereby, the mist generated in the internal space of the mist generating device main body 8 flows into the mist discharge passage 10 and is discharged from the mist discharge port 10a at the lower end of the mist discharge passage 10.

[0112] On the other hand, an intake passage 8e is provided at the upper end of the mist generating device main body 8 on the side opposite to the mist discharge passage 10. This intake passage 8e is formed on the upper surface of the mist generating device main body 8 and opens vertically upward. That is, the internal space of the mist generating device main body 8 communicates with the outside air through the intake passage 8e. Although the intake passage 8e is provided on the upper surface of the mist generating device main body 8, a ceiling surface 8a is formed in the portion directly above the ultrasonic vibrator 18. This ceiling surface 8a is inclined so as to be higher on the side of the mist discharge passage 10 and lower on the side of the intake passage 8e of the mist generating device main body 8. That is, the ceiling surface 8a is configured to be inclined in the portion directly above the ultrasonic vibrator 18 where the liquid column LC is formed, and is generally horizontal in the vicinity of the mist discharge passage 10. Due to the inclination of this ceiling surface 8a, the mist generated in the mist generating device main body 8 is guided toward the mist discharge passage 10.

[0113] In addition, a step is provided between the inclined portion and the generally horizontal portion of the ceiling surface 8a, and this step constitutes a weir portion 8c. That is, when the liquid column LC formed on the water surface W or the liquid droplets LD separated from the liquid column LC hit the inclined ceiling surface 8a and water droplets adhere to the ceiling surface 8a, the weir portion 8c prevents the adhered water droplets from flowing toward the mist discharge passage 10 (shown by imaginary lines in FIG. 21).

[0114] Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 25, a guiding wall portion 8d, which is generally formed in a dome shape, is provided at a portion of the ceiling surface 8a adjacent to the weir portion 8c. This guiding wall portion 8d is configured in a dome shape with a higher central portion, and is respectively provided above each ultrasonic vibrator 18. That is, the water blocked by the weir portion 8c flows left and right along the guiding wall portion 8d, and flows into the tank 12 along the inner wall surface of the mist generating device main body 8 and the partition wall 8b (Fig. 24) (shown by imaginary lines in Fig. 25). The water flowing down along the partition wall 8b from the weir portion 8c flows down between the ultrasonic vibrators 18, suppressing the flowing-down water from interfering with the formation of the liquid column LC.

[0115] Next, as shown in Figs. 23 and 24, a water supply portion 9 and a drainage portion 11 are provided at one end of the mist generating device main body 8. The water supply portion 9 includes a water supply path connection portion 9a to which the water supply path 14 (Fig. 2) is connected, and a water supply chamber 9b into which the water supplied from the water supply path connection portion 9a flows. The water flowing into the water supply chamber 9b flows into the tank 12 in the mist generating device main body 8. As shown in Fig. 24, the water supply chamber 9b and the tank 12 communicate with each other through a communication path 9c below the partition wall 8b provided adjacent to the water supply chamber 9b.

[0116] Since the lower end of the partition wall 8b is located below the water surface W of the tank 12, the communication path 9c is always in a submerged state during the operation of the mist generating device 1. That is, the water supply chamber 9b of the water supply portion 9 communicates with the inside of the tank 12 through the communication path 9c below the water surface W of the tank 12. In this way, the water supply portion 9 communicates with the inside of the tank 12 through the communication path 9c below the water surface W of the tank 12. Therefore, when water flows into the water supply chamber 9b from the water supply path connection portion 9a, it is possible to suppress the water surface W in the tank 12 from fluctuating.

[0117] Further, as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, the drainage unit 11 includes a drainage channel connection part 11a, a drainage chamber 11b provided adjacent to the drainage channel connection part 11a, and an overflow part 11c provided between the drainage channel connection part 11a and the drainage chamber 11b. The drainage chamber 11b communicates with the inside of the tank 12 through a passage (not shown) below the water surface W. Further, the overflow part 11c is a weir that extends horizontally so as to partition the drainage chamber 11b and the drainage channel connection part 11a. When the water level in the drainage chamber 11b exceeds the height of the overflow part 11c, the water in the drainage chamber 11b is discharged to the drainage channel connection part 11a. Further, since the tank 12 and the drainage chamber 11b are communicated by a passage below the water surface W, the maximum water level in the tank 12 is defined by the height of the overflow part 11c.

[0118] Next, with reference to FIGS. 26 to 28, the control of the mist generator 1, the room temperature adjustment device 29, and the ventilation device 31 by the control unit 26 will be described. FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of the mist generation system according to the embodiment of the present invention, which is executed in the control unit 26. FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the control of the water supply of the mist generator 1 and the water temperature in the tank 12. FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the control of the room temperature adjustment device 29.

[0119] The flowchart shown in FIG. 26 is the control executed in the control unit 26 when the start switch (not shown) of the operation unit 28 (FIG. 1) is operated by the user. Further, the control of the mist generator preparation process shown in FIG. 27 and the control of the room temperature preparation process shown in FIG. 28 are also executed simultaneously and in parallel when the start switch (not shown) is operated.

[0120] First, in step S1 of FIG. 26, the control unit 26 sends a control signal to the ventilation device 31 (FIG. 1) to stop it. That is, when the mist generating device 1 discharges mist, if ventilation is being performed by the ventilation device 31, the mist discharged from the mist generating device 1 is likely to diffuse due to the airflow, preventing the mist from staying in the bathtub main body 6 (inside the mist retention space 4). Therefore, when the mist generating device 1 discharges mist, the ventilation device 31 is stopped to prevent the mist from diffusing. Note that the present invention can also be configured to reduce the ventilation efficiency of the ventilation device 31 to such an extent that it does not prevent the retention of mist without stopping the ventilation device 31.

[0121] On the other hand, in step S11 of the mist generating device preparation process flow shown in FIG. 27, the tank 12 of the mist generating device 1 is prepared. Specifically, the control unit 26 sends a control signal to the drain passage opening / closing valve 32 (FIG. 2) connected to the drain passage 16 to close it, putting the tank 12 in a state where water can be stored. Furthermore, in step S12, the control unit 26 sends a control signal to the water supply passage opening / closing valve 30 (FIG. 2) connected to the water supply passage 14 to open it, allowing water to flow into the tank 12.

[0122] Next, in step S13, it is determined whether a predetermined amount of water has been stored in the tank 12. That is, a float switch 21 (FIG. 2) is provided in the tank 12, and the water level in the tank 12 can be detected by this float switch 21. The process of step S13 is repeatedly executed until it is determined that a predetermined amount of water has been stored in the tank 12.

[0123] When a predetermined amount of water is stored in the tank 12, the process in the flowchart shown in FIG. 27 proceeds to step S14. In step S14, the control unit 26 sends a control signal to the water supply passage opening / closing valve 30 to close it, stopping the water supply to the tank 12.

[0124] Next, in step S15, it is determined whether the temperature of the water in the tank 12 measured by the water temperature measuring device 22 (Figure 2) is 60°C or higher and 65°C or lower. Immediately after the water supply is stopped in step S14, the temperature of the water in the tank 12 is less than 60°C, so the process in the flowchart proceeds to step S16. Further, in step S16, since the temperature of the water in the tank 12 is not in the range of 60°C or higher and 65°C or lower, the value of the "tank hot water preparation completion flag" is set to "0". Note that the "tank hot water preparation completion flag" will be described later. Next, in step S17, it is determined whether the temperature of the water in the tank 12 is less than 60°C. If it is less than 60°C, the process proceeds to step S18.

[0125] In step S18, the control unit 26 starts energizing the heater 20, and the process in the flowchart returns to step S15. Thereafter, until the temperature of the water in the tank 12 reaches 60°C, the processes of step S15 → S16 → S17 → S18 → S15 are repeatedly executed. When the water temperature in the tank 12 reaches 60°C, in step S15, it is determined that the water temperature is 60°C or higher and 65°C or lower, and the process proceeds to step S20.

[0126] In step S20, the value of the tank hot water preparation completion flag is set to "1". Thereafter, as long as the temperature of the water in the tank 12 is in the range of 60°C or higher and 65°C or lower, the value of the tank hot water preparation completion flag remains "1". Also, in the flowchart of Figure 27, the processes of step S15 → S20 → S15 are repeated. Thus, the value of the "tank hot water preparation completion flag" is set to "1" when the temperature of the water in the tank 12 is at the appropriate temperature of 60°C or higher and 65°C or lower, and is set to "0" when it is not at the appropriate temperature.

[0127] Furthermore, when the power supply to the heater 20 continues and the temperature of the water in the tank 12 exceeds 65°C, the process in the flowchart of FIG. 27 proceeds from step S15 to S16, where the value of the tank hot water preparation completion flag is set to "0". Next, the process in the flowchart proceeds from step S17 to S19, and the control unit 26 stops the power supply to the heater 20. Thereafter, in the flowchart of FIG. 27, the processes of step S15 → S16 → S17 → S19 → S15 are repeated until the temperature of the water in the tank 12 drops to 65°C.

[0128] On the other hand, in the control flow of the room temperature preparation process shown in FIG. 28, in step S21, the control unit 26 determines whether the temperature in the bathroom 3 measured by the room thermometer 24 (FIG. 2) is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature. In this embodiment, the predetermined temperature is set to 25°C. That is, if the temperature in the bathroom 3 is 25°C or higher, the upward airflow generated by heating the air in the bathtub body 6 by the hot water spread in the bathtub body 6 will not become too strong. Therefore, by discharging the mist from the mist generator 1 into the mist retention space 4 of the bathtub body 6, the discharged mist can be retained in the mist retention space 4. On the other hand, when the temperature in the bathroom 3 is less than 25°C, the upward airflow generated by the hot water in the bathtub body 6 becomes strong, and the mist discharged from the mist generator 1 diffuses, making it difficult to retain the mist in the mist retention space 4.

[0129] For this reason, when the temperature in the bathroom 3 is less than 25°C, the process proceeds to step S22. In step S22, the value of the "room temperature preparation completion flag" is set to "0". Note that the "room temperature preparation completion flag" will be described later. Next, in step S23, the control unit 26 sends a control signal to the room temperature adjustment device 29 (FIG. 1) to activate it and raise the temperature in the bathroom 3. In this embodiment, the room temperature adjustment device 29 is a heater (not shown) and is configured to heat while circulating the air in the bathroom 3.

[0130] Next, in step S24, it is determined whether the temperature in the bathroom 3 is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature (25°C in this embodiment). If it is lower than the predetermined temperature, the process of step S24 is repeatedly executed.

[0131] When the temperature in the bathroom 3 rises to the predetermined temperature or higher, the process of the flowchart shown in FIG. 28 proceeds to step S25. In step S25, the control unit 26 sends a control signal to the room temperature adjustment device 29 to stop it, and returns to step S21. In step S21, it is determined whether the temperature in the bathroom 3 is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature (25°C in this embodiment). If it is equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature, the process proceeds to step S26.

[0132] In step S26, the value of the room temperature preparation completion flag is set to "1". Thereafter, in a state where the temperature in the bathroom 3 is equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature, the processes of step S21 → S26 → S21 are repeatedly executed, and the value of the room temperature preparation completion flag is maintained at "1". In this way, the value of the "room temperature preparation completion flag" is set to "0" when it is determined in step S21 that the temperature in the bathroom 3 is lower than the predetermined temperature, and is set to "1" when it is determined that the temperature in the bathroom 3 is within the appropriate temperature range equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature.

[0133] On the other hand, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 26, after step S1 is executed, the process of step S2 is executed. In step S2, it is determined whether the temperature in the bathroom 3 is equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature and the temperature of the water in the tank 12 of the mist generating device 1 is within a predetermined temperature range (60°C or higher and 65°C or lower in this embodiment). Specifically, it is determined whether the value of the tank hot water preparation completion flag set in the flowchart shown in FIG. 27 is "1" and whether the value of the room temperature preparation completion flag set in the flowchart shown in FIG. 28 is "1". If both flags are not "1", the process of step S2 is repeatedly executed, and the process waits until both flags become "1".

[0134] When the values of both the tank hot water preparation completion flag and the indoor temperature preparation completion flag are "1", step S3 is executed. In step S3, the control unit 26 sends a control signal to the mist generator 1 to start generating mist. Specifically, the control unit 26 starts the operation of the ultrasonic vibrator 18 to atomize the water in the tank 12. As a result, the mist generated in the mist generator main body 8 of the mist generator 1 is discharged into the bathtub main body 6 through the mist discharge passage 10 and stays in the mist retention space 4 in the bathtub main body 6.

[0135] Next, in step S4, the control unit 26 determines whether the temperature in the bathroom 3 is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature (25°C in this embodiment). If the temperature in the bathroom 3 is less than 25°C, the process proceeds to step S5. In step S5, the control unit 26 sends a control signal to the indoor temperature adjustment device 29 to activate it and raise the temperature in the bathroom 3. In this embodiment, the indoor temperature adjustment device 29 is configured to discharge warm air toward the wash area of the bathroom 3. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the warm air from hitting the mist staying in the bathtub main body 6 and diffusing the staying mist. Alternatively, the indoor temperature adjustment device 29 may be configured such that the direction of the discharged warm air can be changed, and during the operation of the mist discharge passage 10, the present invention can also be configured such that the angle of the fins (not shown) of the indoor temperature adjustment device 29 can be set so that the warm air is directed toward the wash area.

[0136] Next, in step S6, it is determined whether the temperature in the bathroom 3 is equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature (25°C in this embodiment). If it is less than the predetermined temperature, the process of step S6 is repeatedly executed.

[0137] When the temperature in the bathroom 3 rises above the predetermined temperature, the process proceeds to step S7. In step S7, the control unit 26 sends a control signal to the indoor temperature adjustment device 29 to stop it and returns to step S4. Thereafter, the processes of steps S4 to S7 are repeatedly executed, and the temperature in the bathroom 3 is maintained above the predetermined temperature.

[0138] Also, when the user operates the stop switch (not shown) of the operation unit 28 (Fig. 1), the process of step S8 is executed as an interrupt process. In step S8, the control unit 26 sends a signal to the ventilation device 31 to return the ventilation device 31 to its original state. That is, if the ventilation device 31 was operating before the start switch (not shown) of the operation unit 28 (Fig. 1) was operated by the user, the ventilation device 31 is operated. Similarly, if the room temperature adjustment device 29 was operating before the start switch was operated by the user, it is operated based on the previous setting, and if the room temperature adjustment device 29 was stopped, it is stopped.

[0139] Next, referring newly to Fig. 29, the mist generation preparation mode in the mist generation system according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig. 29 is a flowchart showing the control of the room temperature adjustment device 29 executed by the control unit 26 in the preparation mode.

[0140] The control unit 26 is configured to be able to set a preparation mode for preparing the discharge of mist by the mist generation device 1. When the user operates the preparation mode setting switch (not shown) of the operation unit 28 (Fig. 1), the control unit 26 executes the flowchart shown in Fig. 27 and the flowchart shown in Fig. 29 described above. By executing the flowchart shown in Fig. 27, the mist generation device preparation process is performed, and the preparation for generating mist by the mist generation device 1 is performed. Also, by executing the flowchart shown in Fig. 29, the room temperature preparation process is performed, and the preparation of the room temperature capable of retaining mist in the mist retention space 4 is performed.

[0141] First, in step S31 of Fig. 29, the control unit 26 determines whether the temperature in the bathroom 3 measured by the room temperature measuring device 24 (Fig. 2) is equal to or higher than the first predetermined temperature. In the present embodiment, the first predetermined temperature is set to 25°C. If the temperature in the bathroom 3 is less than 25°C, the process proceeds to step S32. In step S32, the control unit 26 sends a control signal to the room temperature adjustment device 29 (Fig. 1) to operate it and raise the temperature in the bathroom 3.

[0142] Next, in step S33, it is determined whether the temperature in the bathroom 3 is equal to or higher than a second predetermined temperature that is higher than the first predetermined temperature. If it is lower than the second predetermined temperature, the process of step S33 is repeatedly executed. In the present embodiment, the second predetermined temperature is set to 27°C.

[0143] When the temperature in the bathroom 3 rises to the second predetermined temperature or higher, the process of the flowchart shown in FIG. 29 proceeds to step S34. In step S34, the control unit 26 sends a control signal to the room temperature adjustment device 29 to stop it, and returns to step S31. Thereafter, the processes of steps S31 to S34 are repeatedly executed, and during the execution of the preparation mode, the temperature in the bathroom 3 is maintained within a temperature range that is equal to or higher than the first predetermined temperature and equal to or lower than the second predetermined temperature.

[0144] On the other hand, when a preparation mode setting switch (not shown) is operated, the flowchart shown in FIG. 27 described above is also executed in parallel, so that the mist generating device 1 is maintained in a state where it can generate mist. Therefore, when a predetermined time elapses after the operation of the preparation mode setting switch, the temperature in the bathroom 3 is maintained at a temperature at which the mist can be retained in the mist retention space 4, and the mist generating device 1 is maintained in a state where it can generate mist. In this state, when the user operates the activation switch (not shown) of the mist generation system, the control unit 26 executes the flowchart shown in FIG. 26.

[0145] When the flowchart shown in FIG. 26 is executed in the state where the preparation mode is being executed, since the condition of step S2 in FIG. 26 is already satisfied, the processes from step S3 and below are executed immediately after the activation switch is operated, and the discharge of mist from the mist generating device 1 is started. As a result, the user can enjoy a mist bath without waiting time.

[0146] As a modification, when the preparation mode setting switch is operated, the present invention can be configured such that the flowchart shown in FIG. 28 is executed instead of the flowchart shown in FIG. 29. Further, as a modification, when the start switch is directly operated without operating the preparation mode setting switch, the present invention can be configured such that the flowchart shown in FIG. 29 is executed instead of the flowchart shown in FIG. 28. Alternatively, as a modification, the present invention can be configured such that the processes of steps S31 to S34 in FIG. 29 are executed instead of the processes of steps S4 to S7 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 26.

[0147] According to the mist generation system of the first embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 26 controls the mist generation device 1 and the room temperature adjustment device 29 so that the mist generated by the mist generation device 1 stays in the mist retention space 4. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the diffusion of the discharged mist, and a mist bath can be enjoyed in various usage environments.

[0148] Further, according to the mist generation system of the present embodiment, the temperature difference between the temperature of the mist flowing out from the mist generation device 1 and the temperature in the bathroom 3 can be maintained within an appropriate range, and the diffusion of the mist can be suppressed. Also, when the bathtub main body 6 is filled with hot water up to about half and the space above it is used as the mist retention space 4, a relatively strong upward air current is generated due to the temperature difference between the hot water in the bathtub main body 6 and the air in the bathroom 3. However, according to the mist generation system of the present embodiment, since the room temperature adjustment device 29 is operated to raise the temperature in the bathroom 3, this temperature difference can also be alleviated, the diffusion of the mist can be suppressed, and a mist bath can be enjoyed even in the bathtub main body 6 filled with hot water.

[0149] Furthermore, according to the mist generation system of the present embodiment, after the temperature in the bathroom 3 rises above a predetermined temperature, the outflow of mist from the mist generator 1 is started (step S2→S3 in FIG. 26). Therefore, the mist flowing out from the mist generator 1 can be retained in the bathtub body 6 from the beginning, and the mist generated by the mist generator 1 can be retained without waste.

[0150] Also, according to the mist generation system of the present embodiment, it is configured to be able to set a preparation mode. When the preparation mode is set, if the temperature in the bathroom 3 becomes lower than a predetermined temperature, the indoor temperature adjustment device 29 is automatically activated (step S31→S32 in FIG. 29), and the temperature in the bathroom 3 rises. For this reason, when the user wants to take a mist bath, the mist bath can be started with a short waiting time.

[0151] Furthermore, according to the mist generation system of the present embodiment, in the preparation mode, the indoor temperature is maintained at a predetermined temperature (FIG. 29). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the temperature in the bathroom 3 from rising too much during the setting of the preparation mode and giving discomfort to the user taking a bath.

[0152] Also, according to the mist generation system of the present embodiment, the indoor temperature adjustment device 29 discharges warm air toward the washroom in the bathroom 3. Therefore, while making the temperature in the bathroom 3 an appropriate temperature, it is possible to suppress the warm air from interfering with the retention of the mist.

[0153] Furthermore, according to the mist generation system of the present embodiment, if the temperature in the bathroom 3 becomes lower than a predetermined temperature during the discharge of the mist, the temperature in the bathroom 3 is raised (step S4→S5 in FIG. 26). Therefore, even during the discharge of the mist, it is possible to prevent the temperature difference between the temperature of the mist and the temperature in the bathroom 3 from becoming large, and it is possible to maintain an environment in which the mist can be retained in the bathtub body 6.

[0154] Moreover, according to the mist generation system of the present embodiment, even during mist discharge, the temperature in the bathroom 3 is maintained at a predetermined temperature or higher, so that an environment can be maintained in which mist can stay in the bathtub body 6, and the mist can be stably retained in the bathtub body 6.

[0155] Next, with reference to FIG. 30, a shower room unit equipped with a mist generation system according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The mist generation system of the present embodiment is different from the above-described first embodiment in that the plumbing equipment to which the mist generation system is applied is a shower room. FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a shower room unit having a mist generation function according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0156] As shown in FIG. 30, the mist generation system according to the second embodiment of the present invention is applied to a shower room 203, which is plumbing equipment. The shower room 203 is formed in a shape in which a semi-circular region is added to a rectangular region having a side length of about 0.8 m to 2 m in a top view, forming an indoor space with a relatively narrow space. The shower room device 202 provided in the shower room 203 is provided with a shower water discharge device 207 for discharging shower water. The shower room device 202 further includes a shower room body 206 that forms a mist retention space 204 for receiving the mist supplied from the mist generation device 1. An indoor temperature adjustment device 29 and a ventilation device 31 are provided on the ceiling surface of the shower room 203, and together with the mist generation device 1, they constitute a mist generation system. The shower room 203 is not limited to a room in which only the shower water discharge device 207 is arranged, and may be provided with a toilet, handwashing equipment, a washbasin, or a combination thereof.

[0157] The shower room main body 206 forms a mist retention space 204 that is open upward toward the indoor space 205 where the shower room device 202 is used. The shower room main body 206 is formed by a wall member of the shower room surrounding the shower water discharging device 207, a door of the shower room, etc., and water can flow into the inner mist retention space 204. With such a structure, the shower room main body 206 is configured such that mist is retained within the mist retention space 204. According to this embodiment, even if the boundary between the indoor space 205 of the shower room 203 and the mist retention space 204 is not clearly partitioned by the structure, it shows that the mist retention space 204 can be defined. The boundary between the indoor space 205 and the mist retention space 204 is set at different positions in consideration of the mist supply capacity of the mist generating device 1. The mist retention space 204 can be arbitrarily set as a space for storing mist in consideration of the mist supply capacity of the mist generating device 1. Such a mist retention space 204 is a retention space that is open upward toward the indoor space 205. Note that the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and even if the boundary between the indoor space 205 and the mist retention space 204 is not clearly partitioned by the structure, the mist retention space 204 can be set according to the same principle. The retention space 204 is formed, for example, up to the height of the face of a sitting user (or, for example, about one-third of the total height of the inner space of the shower room).

[0158] The mist generating device 1 is configured such that the temperature difference between the temperature of the mist supplied to the mist retention space 204 and the temperature of the shower room before the start of mist supply is 0°C or higher, and the supplied mist is retained within the mist retention space 204 of the shower room main body 206. In FIG. 29, a mist retention layer C that forms a retention boundary surface 66 on the upper surface is illustrated as an example.

[0159] According to the structure of the second embodiment configured as described above, the heated mist is retained in the mist retention space 204 of the shower room main body 206. For example, the heated mist can warm the shower room main body 206 to heat the floor of the shower room and the mist retention space 204. Also, the user can take a mist bath in the mist retention space 204 with the heated mist. Further, since the heated mist is retained up to a relatively high position, the user can take a mist bath even in a sitting or standing state on the internal chair 208 in the mist retention space 204. For example, the heated mist can warm the shower room main body 206 and can clean the dirt attached to the shower room main body 206 with relatively high cleaning performance or easily remove the dirt.

[0160] As described above, the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described, but various modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0161] 1 Mist generator 2 Bathtub device 3 Bathroom 4 Mist retention space 5 Indoor space 6 Bathtub main body 6a Upper end portion 6d Long side portion 6e Short side portion 6f Drain pan 8 Mist generator main body 8a Ceiling surface 8b Partition wall 8c Weir portion 8d Guide wall portion 8e Intake passage 9 Water supply portion 9a Water supply passage connection portion 9b Water supply chamber 9c Communication passage 10 Mist discharge passage 10a Mist discharge port 11 Drainage portion 11a Drainage passage connection portion 11b Drainage chamber 11c Overflow section 12 Tank (water storage section) 12a Recess 14 Water supply path 16 Drainage path 18 Ultrasonic vibrator 20 Heater 21 Float switch (water level sensor) 22 Water temperature measuring device 24 Indoor temperature measuring device (temperature sensor) 26 Control section (control device) 28 Operation section 29 Indoor temperature adjustment device 30 Water supply path opening / closing valve (water supply valve) 31 Ventilation device 32 Drainage path opening / closing valve 203 Shower room

Claims

1. A mist generation system for retaining mist in a mist retention space provided indoors, comprising: a mist generator configured to generate mist and cause the generated mist to flow into the mist retention space; an indoor temperature adjustment device configured to adjust the temperature of the indoor environment; a control device configured to control the mist generator and the indoor temperature adjustment device such that the mist generated by the mist generator is retained in the mist retention space; wherein the mist retention space is the space inside a bathtub disposed in a bathroom, and further includes a temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature in the bathroom, and the control device is configured to operate the indoor temperature adjustment device to increase the temperature in the bathroom if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is lower than a predetermined temperature before allowing the mist to flow out from the mist generator; the indoor temperature adjustment device is configured to increase the indoor temperature by discharging warm air, and the indoor temperature adjustment device is configured to direct the warm air outside the bathtub during operation of the mist generator. A mist generation system characterized by the above.

2. The mist generation system according to claim 1, wherein the control device is configured to operate the indoor temperature adjustment device to increase the temperature in the bathroom to be equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature and then start the outflow of the mist from the mist generator if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is lower than the predetermined temperature.

3. The mist generation system according to claim 1, wherein the indoor temperature adjustment device is configured to discharge warm air toward the wash area of the bathroom.

4. The control device of the mist generation system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 is configured to be able to set a preparation mode for preparing for the discharge of mist by the mist generator, and when the preparation mode is set, if the indoor temperature is lower than a predetermined temperature, the control device automatically operates the indoor temperature adjustment device to increase the indoor temperature.

5. The mist generation system according to claim 4, wherein the control device controls the indoor temperature adjustment device to maintain the indoor temperature at a predetermined temperature in the preparation mode.

6. The mist generation system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the control device operates the indoor temperature adjustment device to increase the temperature in the room when the temperature in the room becomes lower than a predetermined temperature while mist is being discharged from the mist generator.

7. The mist generation system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the control device controls the indoor temperature adjustment device so that the temperature in the room is maintained at or above a predetermined temperature while mist is being discharged from the mist generator.

8. Furthermore, the mist generation system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a ventilation device for ventilating the room, wherein the control device stops the ventilation device or reduces the ventilation efficiency of the ventilation device so as not to prevent the retention of mist in the mist retention space when mist is being discharged from the mist generator.

9. A bathroom equipped with a mist generation function, a bathtub, the mist generation system according to any one of claims 1 to 8 for retaining mist in a mist retention space inside the bathtub, a wall member surrounding the bathtub, and characterized by comprising the above.

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