Shower system

Abstract

To provide a shower system that can efficiently perform cleaning in a short time.SOLUTION: A liquid delivery pump 36 is designed to deliver a first liquid. The first liquid delivered by the liquid delivery pump 36 is supplied to a first liquid delivery pipe 311. A first shower head 31 is connected to the first liquid delivery pipe 311, and is designed to release the first liquid delivered from the first liquid delivery pipe 311, toward an object. A second liquid delivered without interposing the liquid delivery pump 36 is supplied to a second liquid delivery pipe 321. A second shower head 32 is connected to the second liquid delivery pipe 321, and is designed to release the second liquid delivered from the second liquid delivery pipe 321, toward the object. An air bubble supply part 30 mixes air bubbles into the first liquid supplied to the first liquid delivery pipe 311 or the second liquid supplied to the second liquid delivery pipe 321 by selectively switching between them.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a shower system including a first shower head and a second shower head.

Background Art

[0002] For example, in a beauty salon or a nursing facility, as exemplified in Patent Document 1 below, a part of the human body (such as the head, hair, or body) may be washed with a liquid discharged from a shower head. This type of shower head may be used not only for the human body but also for cleaning various objects such as animals or metals.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In recent years, techniques have been proposed to improve the cleaning power of a liquid by mixing fine bubbles such as nanobubbles or microbubbles into the liquid such as water. However, even if bubbles are mixed into the liquid, it cannot always be said that the cleaning power of the bubbles in the liquid is sufficiently exerted by simply injecting the liquid onto the object.

[0005] Therefore, it is conceivable to improve the structure of the shower head so that the cleaning power can be improved by increasing the amount of dissolved oxygen in the liquid. However, in a shower head having such a structure, since the flow rate of the discharged liquid decreases, even if it is suitable for main washing, it has a problem that it takes too much time for pre-washing and rinsing and is not suitable.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a shower system capable of efficiently performing cleaning in a short time. Another object of the present invention is to provide a shower system capable of improving the cleaning power by bubbles in a liquid.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] (1) The shower system according to the present invention includes a liquid feed pump, a first liquid feed pipe, a first shower head, a second liquid feed pipe, a second shower head, and a bubble supply unit. The liquid feed pump is for feeding a first liquid. The first liquid feed pipe is supplied with the first liquid fed by the liquid feed pump. The first shower head is connected to the first liquid feed pipe and is for discharging the first liquid sent from the first liquid feed pipe toward an object. The second liquid feed pipe is supplied with a second liquid that is fed without passing through the liquid feed pump. The second shower head is connected to the second liquid feed pipe and is for discharging the second liquid sent from the second liquid feed pipe toward an object. The bubble supply unit selectively switches to mix bubbles into the first liquid supplied to the first liquid feed pipe or the second liquid supplied to the second liquid feed pipe.

[0008] According to such a configuration, a first shower head for discharging the first liquid fed by the liquid feed pump toward an object and a second shower head for discharging the second liquid fed without passing through the liquid feed pump toward an object can selectively switch to discharge the first liquid or the second liquid with bubbles mixed therein. Therefore, by selectively using the first shower head or the second shower head in consideration of the flow rate and the cleaning power, cleaning can be efficiently performed in a short time.

[0009] For example, while performing the main wash by feeding a cleaning liquid as the first liquid from a tank by a liquid feed pump and discharging it from the first shower head, pre-washing or rinsing can be performed by feeding water as the second liquid from a faucet without passing through the liquid feed pump and discharging it from the second shower head, so that cleaning can be efficiently performed in a short time.

[0010] (2) The first shower head may include a first accommodation chamber, a first nozzle member, and a second accommodation chamber. The first accommodation chamber stores the first liquid sent from the first liquid feed pipe. A plurality of first small holes for discharging the first liquid in the first accommodation chamber are formed in the first nozzle member. The second accommodation chamber is for storing the first liquid discharged from the first small holes and retaining bubbles in the first liquid.

[0011] According to such a configuration, since the bubbles in the first liquid discharged from the first accommodation chamber through the first small holes stay in the second accommodation chamber, the amount of dissolved oxygen in the first liquid in the second accommodation chamber increases. As a result, the cleaning power of the bubbles in the first liquid when the first liquid in the second accommodation chamber contacts the object can be improved.

[0012] (3) The first shower head may further include a second nozzle member in which a plurality of second small holes for discharging the first liquid in the second accommodation chamber are formed.

[0013] According to such a configuration, the first liquid can be stored in the second accommodation chamber, the bubbles in the first liquid can be retained, and then the first liquid can be discharged from the second small holes. Thereby, the object can be cleaned with a high cleaning power using the first liquid having a large amount of dissolved oxygen discharged from the second small holes.

[0014] (4) A convex portion may be formed at a position facing the first small holes on the surface of the second nozzle member on the side of the second accommodation chamber.

[0015] According to such a configuration, the first liquid discharged from the first accommodation chamber through the first small hole collides with the convex portion formed on the second nozzle member, so that the bubbles in the first liquid are crushed and become finer bubbles, which stay in the second accommodation chamber. Thereby, since the amount of dissolved oxygen in the first liquid in the second accommodation chamber can be further increased, the object can be cleaned with a higher cleaning power.

[0016] (5) The second accommodation chamber is open through an opening, and by bringing the object into contact with or close to the opening, the first liquid discharged from the first small hole can be accommodated in the second accommodation chamber.

[0017] According to such a configuration, by bringing the object into contact with or close to the opening, the first liquid can be accommodated in the second accommodation chamber, and the bubbles in the first liquid can be retained. Therefore, by simply bringing the shower head into contact with or close to the object and using it, the cleaning power by the bubbles in the first liquid can be easily improved.

[0018] (6) A shower head according to another aspect of the present invention is a shower head connected to a liquid supply pipe for discharging the liquid sent from the liquid supply pipe toward an object, and includes a first accommodation chamber, a first nozzle member, and a second accommodation chamber. The first accommodation chamber accommodates the liquid sent from the liquid supply pipe. The first nozzle member is formed with a plurality of first small holes for discharging the liquid in the first accommodation chamber. The second accommodation chamber is for accommodating the liquid discharged from the first small holes and retaining the bubbles in the liquid.

[0019] (7) The shower head may further include a second nozzle member formed with a plurality of second small holes for discharging the liquid in the second accommodation chamber.

[0020] (8) A convex portion may be formed at a position facing the first small hole on the surface of the second nozzle member on the second accommodation chamber side.

[0021] (9) The second accommodation chamber is open through an opening, and by bringing the object into contact with or close to the opening, the liquid discharged from the first small hole may be accommodated in the second accommodation chamber.

[0022] (10) A cleaning method according to another aspect of the present invention is a cleaning method using the shower head, and the shower head is used in a state of being in contact with or close to the object.

Advantages of the Invention

[0023] According to the present invention, by selectively using the first shower head or the second shower head in consideration of the flow rate and the cleaning power, cleaning can be efficiently performed in a short time.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0024]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0025] 1. Schematic Configuration of Shower System FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a shower system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. This shower system 1 is used, for example, in a beauty salon or a nursing facility, and can wash an object by selectively using either the first shower head 31 or the second shower head 32 to discharge a liquid toward the object. The object to be washed may be a part of the human body (such as the head, hair, or body), or may be an object other than the human body such as an animal or metal.

[0026] In addition to the first shower head 31 and the second shower head 32, the shower system 1 is provided with a main body 33, a controller 34, and a tank 35. The controller 34 and the tank 35 are detachably provided with respect to the main body 33, but may be integrally configured by being coupled to the main body 33.

[0027] The main body 33 is provided with a housing 330, a liquid feed pump 36, an air pump 37, a switching valve 38, a control unit 39, etc., which are respectively provided in the housing 330. The housing 330 is a hollow member and has a waterproof structure by appropriately providing a packing (not shown). The housing 330 is provided with four connection parts 331, 332, 333, 334 that allow the passage of liquid inside and outside.

[0028] The connection part 334 is connected to an introduction pipe 351 outside the main body 33. The tip of the introduction pipe 351 is disposed in the tank 35, and the cleaning liquid as the first liquid stored in the tank 35 flows into the main body 33 through the introduction pipe 351 and the connection part 334. The cleaning liquid may be prepared by previously dissolving a cleaning agent such as shampoo in tap water, or may be simple water (tap water). The connection part 331 is connected to a water tap 4 outside the main body 33, and water (tap water) as the second liquid supplied from the water tap 4 flows into the main body 33 through the connection part 331 by the water pressure from the water tap 4.

[0029] The connection part 332 is connected to the first liquid supply pipe 311 outside the main body 33. The tip of the first liquid supply pipe 311 is connected to the first shower head 31. The connection part 332 and the connection part 334 communicate with each other inside the main body 33 via the first liquid supply pipe 335. The liquid supply pump 36 is provided in the middle of the first liquid supply pipe 335, and pumps the cleaning liquid in the tank 35 flowing into the main body 33 from the connection part 334 to the connection part 332. The cleaning liquid pumped by the liquid supply pump 36 is supplied from the connection part 332 to the first liquid supply pipe 311. Then, the cleaning liquid sent from the first liquid supply pipe 311 to the first shower head 31 is discharged from a nozzle (not shown) provided at the tip of the first shower head 31 toward the object.

[0030] The connection part 333 is connected to the second liquid supply pipe 321 outside the main body 33. The tip of the second liquid supply pipe 321 is connected to the second shower head 32. The connection part 331 and the connection part 333 communicate with each other inside the main body 33 via the second liquid supply pipe 336. There is no liquid supply pump provided in the middle of the second liquid supply pipe 336, and water is supplied from the second liquid supply pipe 336 to the second liquid supply pipe 321 without passing through the liquid supply pump due to the water pressure from the water tap 4. Then, the water sent from the second liquid supply pipe 321 to the second shower head 32 is discharged from a nozzle (not shown) provided at the tip of the second shower head 32 toward the object.

[0031] The air pump 37 and the switching valve 38 constitute a bubble supply part 30 that selectively switches and mixes air bubbles into the cleaning liquid supplied to the first liquid supply pipe 311 or the water supplied to the second liquid supply pipe 321. The switching valve 38 is connected to the first liquid supply pipe 335 via the first air supply pipe 337 and is also connected to the second liquid supply pipe 336 via the second air supply pipe 338. The air pump 37 is connected to the switching valve 38, and by the switching operation of the switching valve 38, the air pump 37 can be switched to either a state where it is connected to the first air supply pipe 337 or a state where it is connected to the second air supply pipe 338.

[0032] Therefore, when the liquid feeding pump 36 is driven to supply the cleaning liquid from the first liquid supply pipe 335 to the first liquid delivery pipe 311, if air is supplied from the air pump 37 through the switching valve 38 and the first air supply pipe 337, air bubbles can be mixed into the cleaning liquid discharged from the first shower head 31. On the other hand, when the water tap 4 is opened to supply water from the second liquid supply pipe 336 to the second liquid delivery pipe 321 with the liquid feeding pump 36 stopped, if air is supplied from the air pump 37 through the switching valve 38 and the second air supply pipe 338, air bubbles can be mixed into the water discharged from the second shower head 32. Note that, as shown by the dashed-dotted line in FIG. 1, a bubble generator 339 for supplying fine bubbles such as nanobubbles or microbubbles may be provided in the middle of the second liquid supply pipe 336 or the second air supply pipe 338.

[0033] The control unit 39 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and controls the operation of the shower system 1. The control unit 39 is electrically connected to the controller 34, the liquid feeding pump 36, the air pump 37, the switching valve 38, etc. The control unit 39 controls the operations of the liquid feeding pump 36, the air pump 37, and the switching valve 38 based on the input signal from the controller 34.

[0034] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of the controller 34. The controller 34 includes a casing 340 in which electrical wirings etc. are arranged, and a plurality of buttons (power button 341, bubble shower button 342, shampoo button 343, and stop button 344) are provided on the surface of the casing 340. Hereinafter, an example of a cleaning method using the shower system 1 will be described. However, the shower system 1 according to the present invention is not limited to the method exemplified here and can be applied to any other cleaning method.

[0035] By operating the power button 341, the user can turn on the power of the shower system 1 and set each part (such as the liquid supply pump 36 and the air pump 37) to the ready state. Then, the user opens the water tap 4 and operates the bubble shower button 342 to connect the air pump 37 to the second air supply pipe 338, so that bubbles can be supplied from the bubble supply unit 30 to the water in the second liquid supply pipe 336. As a result, water mixed with bubbles can be discharged from the second shower head 32, and pre-washing of the object can be performed using this water (pre-washing process).

[0036] After the pre-washing process, the user closes the water tap 4 and operates the shampoo button 343. Along with this, the liquid supply pump 36 can be driven to supply the cleaning liquid from the tank 35 into the first liquid supply pipe 335, and the air pump 37 can be connected to the first air supply pipe 337 so that bubbles can be supplied from the bubble supply unit 30 to the cleaning liquid in the first liquid supply pipe 335. As a result, the cleaning liquid mixed with bubbles can be discharged from the first shower head 31, and main washing of the object can be performed using this cleaning liquid (main washing process).

[0037] After the main washing process, the user operates the stop button 344 to stop the operations of the liquid supply pump 36 and the air pump 37. In this state, the user can open the water tap 4 to discharge water without bubbles from the second shower head 32 and perform rinsing of the object using this water (rinsing process). After the rinsing process, the user closes the water tap 4 to end the operation. However, the opening and closing of the water tap 4 may be performed not manually but by switching a valve (not shown) by the control unit 39.

[0038] Thus, in this embodiment, a first shower head 31 for discharging the cleaning liquid fed by the liquid feed pump 36 toward the object, and a second shower head 32 for discharging the water fed without passing through the liquid feed pump 36 toward the object can be selectively switched to discharge the cleaning liquid with bubbles mixed therein or water. Therefore, by selectively using the first shower head 31 or the second shower head 32 in consideration of the flow rate and the cleaning power, cleaning can be efficiently performed in a short time.

[0039] The second shower head 32 has a larger flow rate than the first shower head 31. Therefore, as described above, while performing this washing by feeding the cleaning liquid from the tank 35 by the liquid feed pump 36 and discharging it from the first shower head 31, pre-washing or rinsing can be performed by feeding water from the water tap 4 without passing through the liquid feed pump 36 and discharging it from the second shower head 32, and thus cleaning can be efficiently performed in a short time.

[0040] 2. First Installation Mode of the Shower System FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a first installation mode of the shower system 1. In this example, the controller 34 and the tank 35 are used in a state of being removed from the main body 33. Note that the controller 34 may be connected to the main body 33 (control unit 39) by wire, or may be able to communicate with the control unit 39 wirelessly.

[0041] The tank 35 is installed in a tank 5 such as a bathtub, and an introduction pipe 351 is inserted into the tank 35. The controller 34 is installed at a position where the user can easily operate, such as the edge of the tank 5. The main body 33 is installed at a position that does not interfere with the user, such as below or beside the tank 5.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 3, the four connection parts 331, 332, 333, 334 are arranged side by side on one surface (for example, the upper surface) of the housing 330 of the main body 33. Therefore, the user can easily perform the work of connecting the pipes corresponding to the respective connection parts 331, 332, 333, 334, and the shower system 1 can be installed without construction work.

[0043] For example, in the case of a general shower facility where a shower head is connected to a faucet via a hose, the hose can be removed from the faucet and connected to the connection part 332 as the first liquid supply pipe 311. In this case, the faucet from which the hose has been removed can be separately connected to the connection part 331. Further, the user can select and attach an introduction pipe 351 having a length suitable for the installation mode to the connection part 334.

[0044] 3. Second installation mode of the shower system FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a second installation mode of the shower system 1. In this example, the controller 34 and the tank 35 are used in an integrated state attached to the main body 33. Although not limited to the installation mode shown in this FIG. 4, the tank 35 may be provided with a thermometer 352, a water level sensor 353, and the like. In this case, based on a signal from the thermometer 352 or the water level sensor 353, the control unit 39 may control the operation of the liquid supply pump 36 and the like.

[0045] By integrally attaching the main body 33, the controller 34, and the tank 35 as shown in FIG. 4, the shower system 1 can be easily carried. Therefore, it is convenient at care facilities where there are a plurality of target persons or at sites such as home care.

[0046] 4. Third installation mode of the shower system FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a third installation mode of the shower system 1. In this example, while the controller 34 is used in a state of being removed from the main body 33, the tank 35 is not used. In this case, for example, water is stored in a tank 6 such as a washbasin installed in a beauty salon, and by inserting the introduction pipe 351 into the tank 6, the tank 6 can be used instead of the tank 35 to wash the hair of the object W (the head of the target person).

[0047] The introduction pipe 351 can be fixed to the tank 6 using a fixture 354 such as a suction plate. The controller 34 is installed at a position where the user can easily operate, such as the edge of the tank 6. The main body 33 is installed at a position where it does not interfere with the user, such as below or on the side of the tank 6.

[0048] 5. First Embodiment of the First Shower Head FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a first embodiment of the first shower head 31. FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the first shower head 31 in FIG. 6.

[0049] This first shower head 31 is for cleaning an object by discharging the liquid sent from the first liquid supply pipe 311 (see FIG. 6) toward the object, and is detachably connected to the first liquid supply pipe 311. The first liquid supply pipe 311 is constituted by, for example, a hose made of rubber or resin.

[0050] As described above, the first liquid supply pipe 311 is supplied with a liquid containing air (bubbles) from the main body 33. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which a liquid containing air is generated in advance by mixing the liquid and air at a predetermined pressure ratio (for example, 1:1), and the liquid is supplied to the first liquid supply pipe 311. In this case, the liquid may be supplied to the first liquid supply pipe 311 in a mist form. The diameter of the bubbles contained in the liquid is not particularly limited, but if they are fine bubbles such as nanobubbles or microbubbles, the cleaning power of the liquid can be improved.

[0051] The first shower head 31 includes a hollow head main body 10, and a first nozzle member 11, a second nozzle member 12, and a hose joint 13 that are each detachably attached to the head main body 10. The first nozzle member 11, the second nozzle member 12, and the hose joint 13 are not limited to a configuration that is detachably attached to the head main body 10, and at least one member may be fixed to the head main body 10.

[0052] The head body 10 is, for example, a cylindrical member, and has an inlet opening 101 formed on the side surface and an outlet opening 102 formed on the bottom surface. The inlet opening 101 and the outlet opening 102 communicate with each other via a flow path 103 formed in the head body 10. The flow path 103 includes a first storage chamber 104, a second storage chamber 105, and a connecting path 106.

[0053] A hose fitting 13 is attached to the inlet opening 101. The hose fitting has a configuration in which a cylindrical portion 131 and a flange portion 132 that protrudes in an annular shape from a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 131 are integrally formed. A screw thread (not shown) is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 131 on the inlet opening 101 side of the flange portion 132. The hose fitting 13 can be attached to the inlet opening 101 by screwing the screw thread into a thread groove (not shown) formed in the inlet opening 101. However, the hose fitting 13 is not limited to a screw-in type, and may be of another shape, such as a push-in type.

[0054] The first storage chamber 104 communicates with the inlet opening 101 via a connecting passage 106. The connecting passage 106 has an inner diameter smaller than that of the inlet opening 101, and is formed in an L-shape by extending straight in the opening direction of the inlet opening 101 (horizontally) and then bending towards the first storage chamber 104 side (downward). Specifically, the connecting passage 106 has a horizontal flow path 161 that extends horizontally and a vertical flow path 162 that extends up and down.

[0055] At the junction of the horizontal flow path 161 and the vertical flow path 162 in the connection path 106, a bent portion bent in an L shape is formed. An extension portion 163 for extending the horizontal flow path 161 is formed in the bent portion. The extension portion 163 extends toward the side opposite to the inlet opening 101 side with respect to the bent portion (the junction of the horizontal flow path 161 and the vertical flow path 162). Therefore, the liquid flowing into the head body 10 from the inlet opening 101 collides with the end of the extension portion 163 through the horizontal flow path 161, then flows into the vertical flow path 162 through the bent portion, and flows into the first storage chamber 104. The shape of the connection path 106 is not limited to the above shape, but preferably has a bent portion or a curved portion in the middle.

[0056] The shape of the first storage chamber 104 is not particularly limited, but in the present embodiment, the first storage chamber 104 is formed with a circular cross section in the horizontal direction. That is, the first storage chamber 104 has a circular cross section perpendicular to the central axis L and extends in the vertical direction along the central axis L. The connection path 106 (vertical flow path 162) is connected to the upper end of the first storage chamber 104 on the central axis L. Therefore, the liquid sent from the first liquid delivery pipe 311 is stored in the first storage chamber 104 through the connection path 106.

[0057] The lower end of the first storage chamber 104 is opened through the lower end opening 141. The second storage chamber 105 communicates with the lower end opening 141. The shape of the second storage chamber 105 is not particularly limited, but in the present embodiment, the second storage chamber 105 is formed with a circular cross section in the horizontal direction and extends in the vertical direction along the same central axis L as the first storage chamber 104. The inner diameter of the second storage chamber 105 is larger than the inner diameter of the first storage chamber 104. Therefore, a step is formed at the corner at the junction of the first storage chamber 104 and the second storage chamber 105 (the peripheral edge of the lower end opening 141).

[0058] The first nozzle member 11 is inserted into the first accommodation chamber 104 from the side of the second accommodation chamber 105 and attached to the lower end opening 141. The first nozzle member 11 has a configuration in which a cylindrical portion 111 and a head portion 112 that closes one end portion (lower end portion) of the cylindrical portion 111 are integrally formed. A thread (not shown) is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 111. The first nozzle member 11 can be attached to the lower end opening 141 by screwing the thread into a thread groove (not shown) formed in the lower end opening 141.

[0059] The head portion 112 has an outer diameter larger than that of the cylindrical portion 111. In a state where the first nozzle member 11 is attached to the lower end opening 141, the head portion 112 abuts against a step formed at the joint portion (peripheral edge portion of the lower end opening 141) between the first accommodation chamber 104 and the second accommodation chamber 105. However, the first nozzle member 11 is not limited to a screw-in type and may have other shapes such as a fitting type.

[0060] A plurality of small holes (first small holes) 113 are formed in the head portion 112 of the first nozzle member 11. Each small hole 113 penetrates the head portion 112, and the first accommodation chamber 104 and the second accommodation chamber 105 communicate with each other through the small hole 113. Each small hole 113 extends parallel to the central axis L. For example, its inner diameter is 0.5 to 1.5 mm, more preferably about 1 mm. The number of small holes 113 is, for example, about 3 to 10. In this embodiment, five small holes 113 are formed at equal intervals from each other.

[0061] Each small hole 113 is for discharging the liquid in the first accommodation chamber 104. That is, the liquid flowing from the first liquid supply pipe 311 into the head main body 10 is accommodated in the first accommodation chamber 104 and then discharged into the second accommodation chamber 105 under pressure from each small hole 113 of the first nozzle member 11. At this time, the liquid discharged from each small hole 113 may be in a mist state. The lower end of the second accommodation chamber 105 is open to the outside of the head main body 10 through the outlet opening 102.

[0062] The second nozzle member 12 is inserted into the second accommodation chamber 105 from the outside of the head body 10 and attached to the outlet opening 102. The second nozzle member 12 is a disk-shaped member, and a thread (not shown) is formed on its outer peripheral surface. The second nozzle member 12 can be attached to the outlet opening 102 by screwing the thread into a thread groove (not shown) formed in the outlet opening 102. However, the second nozzle member 12 is not limited to a screwing type and may have other shapes such as a fitting type.

[0063] In a state where the second nozzle member 12 is attached to the outlet opening 102, the upper surface 121 of the second nozzle member 12 abuts against a stepped surface 151 formed on the inner peripheral surface of the second accommodation chamber 105. In this state, the lower surface 122 of the second nozzle member 12 is located on the second accommodation chamber 105 side (upper side) rather than the lower end edge of the head body 10 (the peripheral edge of the outlet opening 102). Thereby, a space S is formed in the head body 10 in a portion outside (lower side) of the second nozzle member 12 at the outlet opening 102.

[0064] A plurality of small holes (second small holes) 123 are formed in the second nozzle member 12 at positions other than the central portion. Each small hole 123 penetrates the second nozzle member 12, and the second accommodation chamber 105 communicates with the outside of the head body 10 through the small hole 123. Each small hole 123 extends parallel to the central axis L. For example, its inner diameter is about 0.5 to 2.5 mm, more preferably about 1 to 2 mm.

[0065] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, a plurality of small holes 123 are arranged in an annular shape in the circumferential direction with respect to the central axis L. Specifically, the plurality of small holes 123 are arranged in a plurality of rows on concentric circles centered on the central axis L. In this example, the plurality of small holes 123 are arranged in three rows, and in order from the one closest to the central axis L, they are arranged in the order of the inner small holes 123a, the central small holes 123b, and the outer small holes 123c. That is, the plurality of inner small holes 123a are arranged at equal intervals in an annular shape, and outside them, the plurality of central small holes 123b are arranged at equal intervals in an annular shape, and outside them, the plurality of outer small holes 123c are arranged at equal intervals in an annular shape. The adjacent inner small holes 123a, central small holes 123b, and outer small holes 123c are arranged side by side in the radial direction with respect to the central axis L.

[0066] The inner small holes 123a, the central small holes 123b, and the outer small holes 123c may each have the same inner diameter, or they may have different inner diameters from each other. When the inner small holes 123a, the central small holes 123b, and the outer small holes 123c have different inner diameters from each other, for example, the inner diameter of the central small holes 123b may be larger than the inner diameter of the inner small holes 123a, and the inner diameter of the outer small holes 123c may be larger than the inner diameter of the central small holes 123b.

[0067] In this case, for example, it is preferable that the inner diameter of the inner small holes 123a is 0.5 to 1.5 mm, the inner diameter of the central small holes 123b is 1 to 2 mm, and the inner diameter of the outer small holes 123c is 1.5 to 2.5 mm. More preferably, for example, the inner diameter of the inner small holes 123a is about 1 mm, the inner diameter of the central small holes 123b is about 1.5 mm, and the inner diameter of the outer small holes 123c is about 2 mm. The number of the inner small holes 123a, the central small holes 123b, and the outer small holes 123c is, for example, 10 to 30 each, more preferably 15 to 25, and even more preferably about 20.

[0068] Each small hole 123 is for discharging the liquid in the second accommodation chamber 105. That is, the liquid discharged into the second accommodation chamber 105 from the first accommodation chamber 104 through each small hole 113 of the first nozzle member 11 is discharged to the outside of the head body 10 through each small hole 123 of the second nozzle member 12 from the second accommodation chamber 105.

[0069] The flow rate of the liquid discharged from the plurality of small holes 113 in the first nozzle member 11 is the same as the flow rate of the liquid discharged from each small hole 123 in the second nozzle member 12, and is, for example, 0.5 to 5 L / min, and preferably about 1 L / min. However, the number of the plurality of small holes 123 in the second nozzle member 12 is greater than the number of the plurality of small holes 113 in the first nozzle member 11, and the inner diameter of each small hole 123 is equal to or greater than the inner diameter of each small hole 113. Therefore, the liquid contained in the second storage chamber 105 is discharged from each small hole 123 in the second nozzle member 12 at a speed slower than the speed at which the liquid is discharged from each small hole 113 in the first nozzle member 11.

[0070] A convex portion 124 is formed on the upper surface 121 of the second nozzle member 12 (the surface on the second storage chamber 105 side). The convex portion 124 faces the first nozzle member 11 and protrudes toward the first nozzle member 11. As a result, the convex portion 124 is provided at a position facing each of the small holes 113 formed in the first nozzle member 11. Therefore, the liquid discharged from inside the first storage chamber 104 through each of the small holes 113 collides with the convex portion 124 formed in the second nozzle member 12 and splashes into the second storage chamber 105.

[0071] The shape of the convex portion 124 is not particularly limited, but in this embodiment, the convex portion 124 is formed in a conical shape. The apex of the convex portion 124 is located on the central axis L and is close to the first nozzle member 11. Therefore, the tapered surface of the conical convex portion 124 faces each small hole 113, and liquid that collides with the tapered surface will be scattered in a direction away from the central axis L. However, the shape of the convex portion 124 is not limited to a shape with a pointed apex, and may be another shape, such as a spherical shape.

[0072] FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an embodiment when an object is cleaned using the first showerhead 31 of FIG.

[0073] When the liquid contains bubbles, the liquid discharged from each small hole 113 of the first nozzle member 11 into the second storage chamber 105 collides with the convex portions 124 of the second nozzle member 12, thereby shattering the bubbles in the liquid and turning them into finer bubbles that remain in the second storage chamber 105, as shown in Fig. 8. In other words, the second storage chamber 105 functions as a space for retaining the bubbles in the liquid. The bubbles that remain in the second storage chamber 105 are fine bubbles such as nanobubbles or microbubbles.

[0074] Even if the liquid sent from the first liquid supply pipe 311 to the first shower head 31 does not contain bubbles, bubbles are generated when the liquid collides with a wall surface (such as the inner wall surface of the first nozzle member 11 or the first storage chamber 104) inside the first storage chamber 104. Therefore, the liquid released from each small hole 113 of the first nozzle member 11 into the second storage chamber 105 contains bubbles, and these bubbles become even smaller and remain inside the second storage chamber 105.

[0075] When using this first showerhead 31 to clean the object W, the first showerhead 31 is used in a state where it is in contact with or close to the object W, as shown in Fig. 8. In Fig. 8, the first showerhead 31 is in contact with the object W. Specifically, the lower surface 122 of the second nozzle member 12 of the first showerhead 31 is in contact with the object W (e.g., a person's head).

[0076] However, the first shower head 31 may be used with, for example, the lower edge of the head body 10 (the peripheral edge of the outlet opening 102) in contact with the object W, rather than the lower surface 122 of the second nozzle member 12. The first shower head 31 may also be used in a state where it is close enough to the object W but does not come into contact with it. In this case, a gap of, for example, 10 mm or less, more preferably 5 mm or less, and even more preferably 3 mm or less may be formed between the first shower head 31 and the object W.

[0077] In this embodiment, the velocity of the liquid discharged from each small hole 123 of the second nozzle member 12 is slow, and the cleaning power due to the impact of the liquid is low. However, bubbles in the liquid discharged from the first accommodation chamber 104 through the small holes 113 stay in the second accommodation chamber 105, increasing the amount of dissolved oxygen in the liquid in the second accommodation chamber 105. As a result, the cleaning power of the bubbles in the liquid when the liquid in the second accommodation chamber 105 contacts the object W can be improved.

[0078] In particular, in this embodiment, the liquid can be accommodated in the second accommodation chamber 105, the bubbles in the liquid can be retained, and then the liquid can be discharged from each small hole 123 of the second nozzle member 12. Thereby, the object W can be cleaned with high cleaning power using the liquid with a large amount of dissolved oxygen discharged from each small hole 123.

[0079] Also, in this embodiment, the liquid discharged from the first accommodation chamber 104 through each small hole 113 collides with the convex portion 124 formed on the second nozzle member 12, so that the bubbles in the liquid are crushed and become finer bubbles and stay in the second accommodation chamber 105. Thereby, since the amount of dissolved oxygen in the liquid in the second accommodation chamber 105 can be further increased, the object W can be cleaned with higher cleaning power.

[0080] Furthermore, in this embodiment, just by bringing the first shower head 31 into contact with or close to the object W, the cleaning power of the bubbles in the liquid can be easily improved. When the first shower head 31 is brought into contact with or close to the object W, the pressure in the second accommodation chamber 105 increases, and the velocity of the liquid discharged from each small hole 123 of the second nozzle member 12 becomes faster, so that the cleaning power can be further improved.

[0081] 6. Second Embodiment of the First Shower Head FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a second embodiment of the first shower head 31. FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a mode when an object is cleaned using the first shower head 31 of FIG. 9.

[0082] Unlike the first shower head 31 according to the first embodiment, the first shower head 31 according to the second embodiment does not include the second nozzle member 12. Except for this point, since the first shower head 31 according to the second embodiment has the same configuration as the first shower head 31 according to the first embodiment, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals in the drawings and detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0083] Since the first shower head 31 according to the present embodiment does not include the second nozzle member 12, the second accommodation chamber 105 is open via the outlet opening 102. Therefore, in a state where there is no object W, the liquid discharged from the first accommodation chamber 104 through the small holes 113 of the first nozzle member 11 is directly discharged from the outlet opening 102 to the outside of the head body 10.

[0084] However, in the present embodiment, the first shower head 31 is used in a state of being in contact with or close to the object W. That is, as shown in FIG. 10, by bringing the object W into contact with or close to the outlet opening 102 of the first shower head 31, the liquid discharged from each small hole 113 of the first nozzle member 11 can be accommodated in the second accommodation chamber 105.

[0085] In FIG. 10, the first shower head 31 is in contact with the object W. Specifically, the lower end edge of the head body 10 (the peripheral edge of the outlet opening 102) is in contact with the object W. However, the first shower head 31 may be used in a state of being close to the object W without being in contact therewith. In this case, a gap of, for example, 10 mm or less, more preferably 5 mm or less, and even more preferably 3 mm or less may be formed between the first shower head 31 and the object W.

[0086] In the present embodiment, by bringing the object W into contact with or close to the outlet opening 102, the liquid can be accommodated in the second accommodation chamber 105 and the bubbles in the liquid can be retained. Therefore, by simply using the first shower head 31 in contact with or close to the object W, the cleaning power by the bubbles in the liquid can be easily improved.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0087] 1 Shower system 30 Bubble supply unit 31 First shower head 32 Second shower head 36 Liquid delivery pump 37 Air pump 38 Switching valve 311 First liquid delivery pipe 321 Second liquid delivery pipe The invention described in the original claims of the present application is appended below. [1] A liquid delivery pump for delivering a first liquid, a first liquid delivery pipe to which the first liquid delivered by the liquid delivery pump is supplied, a first shower head connected to the first liquid delivery pipe for discharging the first liquid sent from the first liquid delivery pipe toward an object, a second liquid delivery pipe to which a second liquid delivered without passing through the liquid delivery pump is supplied, a second shower head connected to the second liquid delivery pipe for discharging the second liquid sent from the second liquid delivery pipe toward an object, and a bubble supply unit that selectively switches and mixes bubbles into the first liquid supplied to the first liquid delivery pipe or the second liquid supplied to the second liquid delivery pipe. A shower system. [2] The first shower head is a first accommodation chamber that accommodates the first liquid sent from the first liquid delivery pipe, a first nozzle member in which a plurality of first small holes for discharging the first liquid in the first accommodation chamber are formed, and a second accommodation chamber that accommodates the first liquid discharged from the first small holes and retains bubbles in the first liquid. The shower system according to [1]. [3] The first shower head further includes a second nozzle member in which a plurality of second small holes for discharging the first liquid in the second accommodation chamber are formed. The shower system according to [2]. [4] A convex portion is formed at a position facing the first small hole on the surface of the second nozzle member on the side of the second accommodation chamber. The shower system according to [3]. [5] The second accommodation chamber is opened through an opening, and by bringing the object into contact with or close to the opening, the first liquid discharged from the first small hole can be accommodated in the second accommodation chamber. The shower system according to [2].

Claims

1. a liquid feed pump for feeding the first liquid; a first liquid feed pipe to which the first liquid fed by the liquid feed pump is supplied; a first shower head connected to the first liquid feed pipe for discharging the first liquid fed from the first liquid feed pipe toward an object; and the liquid feed pump for discharging the first liquid from the first shower head, a second liquid feed pipe to which a second liquid is supplied without passing through the liquid feed pump; a second shower head connected to the second liquid supply pipe and configured to discharge the second liquid supplied from the second liquid supply pipe toward an object; a bubble supply unit that selectively switches between the first liquid supplied to the first liquid supply pipe and the second liquid supplied to the second liquid supply pipe to mix bubbles into the first liquid or the second liquid.

2. The first shower head a first storage chamber that stores the first liquid sent from the first liquid sending pipe; a first nozzle member having a plurality of first small holes formed therein for discharging the first liquid in the first storage chamber; The shower system according to claim 1, further comprising a second storage chamber for storing the first liquid discharged from the first small hole and retaining air bubbles in the first liquid.

3. 3. The shower system of claim 2, wherein the first showerhead further comprises a second nozzle member having a plurality of second small holes formed therein for discharging the first liquid in the second chamber.

4. The shower system according to claim 3 , wherein a convex portion is formed on a surface of the second nozzle member facing the second chamber at a position opposite the first small hole.

5. 3. The shower system of claim 2, wherein the second storage chamber is open through an opening, and the first liquid released from the first small hole can be stored in the second storage chamber by bringing the object into contact with or close to the opening.

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