Faucet equipment

Abstract

To provide a faucet device capable of suppressing false detection caused by water contacting a human body.SOLUTION: A faucet device according to an embodiment comprises: a conductive spout body part; a water flow passage part at least partially accommodated in the spout body part and guiding wash water to the spout; an electrostatic sensor that detects capacitance using the spout body part as a detection electrode; and a control device that switches a state of washing water from a water stop state to a water discharge state when an amount of change in capacitance is greater than or equal to a first threshold in the water stop state, and switches the state of the washing water from a water-spraying state to a water-stopping state when the amount of change in capacitance in the water-spraying state is equal to or greater than a second threshold. The faucet device has a ground conducting part that connects the water flow passage part to the ground.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, there is known a water faucet device that discharges or stops tap water in accordance with the detection result of a detection target by a sensor (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-24808 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the above-mentioned faucet device, the detection electrode of the electrostatic sensor built into the faucet device detects a change (increase) in capacitance when a human body comes into contact with water in the water-discharging state, and the difference between this and the change (decrease) in capacitance when the human body moves away from the water can be used to switch from the water-discharging state to the water-stopped state.

[0005] On the other hand, if the faucet device is configured so that the electrostatic sensor incorporated into it uses the conductive spout body as the detection electrode, and continues to dispense water when the human body is in the water and when it is not in the water, and stops the water flow when the user brings their hand close to the spout body, if the point where the water lands on the hand in the water discharging state is close to the spout of the spout body, the capacitance will change (increase) significantly when the hand comes into contact with the water, and it may be mistakenly detected that the hand is being brought close to the spout body to stop the water, and the device may switch from the water discharging state to the water-stopped state when the water hits the hand, even though the user wants the water to continue discharging.

[0006] One aspect of the embodiment aims to provide a water faucet device that suppresses false detections caused by water landing on a human body. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A water faucet device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a conductive spout body, a water passage at least partially housed in the spout body and directing flush water to a spout, an electrostatic sensor that detects capacitance using the spout body as a detection electrode, and a control device that switches the flush water state from a stopped state to a discharging state when a change in the capacitance is equal to or greater than a first threshold value in a stopped state, and switches the flush water state from the discharging state to a stopped state when a change in the capacitance is equal to or greater than a second threshold value in the discharging state. The water faucet device has a grounding conductive part that connects the water passage to ground.

[0008] By connecting the water flow path to the ground, the faucet device can prevent an increase in the amount of change in capacitance when flush water is in a discharging state and lands on a human body. Therefore, the faucet device can prevent a false detection that a human body is approaching the spout main body when flush water lands on a human body. In other words, the faucet device can prevent water from being stopped due to a false detection of a human body. One method for preventing false detection is to increase the distance between the spout main body and the water flow path, but this method increases the size of the spout main body and the overall size of the faucet device. In contrast, by connecting the water flow path to the ground, the faucet device can prevent false detection without increasing the size of the device.

[0009] The water passage includes a spout passage housed in the spout body and a water supply passage provided upstream of the spout passage in the direction of flow of the flush water in the water passage. The ground conduction portion connects the spout passage to ground.

[0010] By connecting the grounding conductive portion to the spout path portion close to the spout, the faucet device can reduce the change in capacitance when flush water lands on a human body. Therefore, the faucet device can further prevent the amount of change in capacitance from increasing when flush water is in the discharge state and lands on a human body. Therefore, the faucet device can further prevent erroneous detection that a human body is approaching the spout main body when flush water lands on a human body.

[0011] Furthermore, the distance between the spout outlet and the connection point of the ground conduction portion with the spout path portion is shorter than the distance between the connection point and the base end of the spout body portion.

[0012] By connecting the grounding conductive portion to the spout path portion close to the spout, the faucet device can reduce the change in capacitance when flush water lands on a human body. Therefore, the faucet device can further prevent the amount of change in capacitance from increasing when flush water is in the discharge state and lands on a human body. Therefore, the faucet device can further prevent erroneous detection that a human body is approaching the spout main body when flush water lands on a human body.

[0013] The spout path portion includes a conductive joint portion, and the ground conduction portion is connected to the joint portion.

[0014] This allows the faucet device to reduce the change in capacitance when flush water hits the human body.The faucet device also allows the ground conduction part and the spout path part to be connected with a simple configuration.

[0015] The water faucet device further includes a conductive water discharge cap having the water discharge port, and the grounding conductive part is connected to the water discharge cap.

[0016] This allows the faucet device to reduce the change in capacitance when flush water lands on a human body. Therefore, the faucet device can further prevent the amount of change in capacitance from increasing when flush water is in the discharging state and the flush water lands on a human body. Therefore, the faucet device can further prevent the faucet device from falsely detecting that a human body is approaching the spout main body when flush water lands on a human body.

[0017] The faucet device also includes an insulating portion that is provided within the spout main body and insulates the spout main body from the ground conductive portion and at least one of the conductive members connected to the ground conductive portion.

[0018] When the ground conduction portion and the spout body come into contact and conduct electricity, the capacitance coupling between the ground conduction portion and the spout body becomes very strong. Therefore, when a human body approaches the spout body, the change in capacitance is small, and the amount of change in capacitance may not exceed the first or second threshold. In response to this, by providing an insulating portion between the ground conduction portion and the spout body, the faucet device can reliably change the capacitance when a human body approaches the spout body, thereby detecting the approach of a human body. In other words, the faucet device can accurately switch the state of flush water between a stopped state and a discharge state in response to user operation.

[0019] The water faucet device also includes a holding portion that holds the ground conduction portion spaced apart from the spout body portion.

[0020] This allows the faucet device to prevent contact between the ground conductive portion and the spout main body, and allows the state of the flush water to be accurately switched between a stopped state and a discharge state in response to operation by the user. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to suppress false detections caused by water landing on the human body. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a water faucet device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an electrical circuit diagram corresponding to the water faucet device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the flow of current when a hand is held over the spout main body. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the flow of current when wash water hits the user's hands. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the flow of current in a comparative example in a water-stopped state. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the flow of current when wash water hits the user's hand in the comparative example. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the water discharge process in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a water faucet device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a water faucet device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a water faucet device according to a fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments of the faucet device disclosed in the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown below. It should be noted that the drawings are schematic, and the dimensional relationships and ratios of each element may differ from reality. The drawings may also contain parts with different dimensional relationships and ratios. In the following description, the up-down direction is defined as the vertical direction downward.

[0024] (First embodiment) <Configuration of the faucet device> A faucet device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the faucet device 1 according to the first embodiment. In Fig. 1, a spout main body 2 and a spout cap 4 of the faucet device 1 are shown in cross section.

[0025] The faucet device 1 is attached to a base 100, such as a washbasin, and when it detects a detection object, it starts and stops flushing water. In other words, the faucet device 1 is an automatic faucet that automatically starts and stops water. Detection objects include the human body. The human body includes the user's hands.

[0026] The cleaning water includes raw water. The cleaning water may include modified water. The raw water is, for example, tap water. The modified water is purified water or alkaline ionized water. The purified water is, for example, produced by passing tap water through a filter. The alkaline ionized water is, for example, produced by electrolyzing tap water.

[0027] The faucet device 1 includes a spout main body 2 (sensor 6), a water passage 3, a spout cap 4, a ground conductor 5, the sensor 6, and a control device .

[0028] The spout body 2 is made of a conductive material. The spout body 2 is made of metal. The spout body 2 may also be made of conductive carbon, conductive plastic, or the like.

[0029] The spout body 2 is attached to a base 100 such as a washbasin, for example. The spout body 2 is, for example, substantially L-shaped. The spout body 2 may be substantially J-shaped or linear.

[0030] The water passage 3 guides flush water to the water outlet 4a of the water spout cap 4. At least a portion of the water passage 3 is housed in the spout main body 2. The water passage 3 includes a spout passage 10, a water supply passage 11, and a valve 12. The spout passage 10 and the water supply passage 11 are supply pipes through which flush water flows. The spout passage 10 and the water supply passage 11 may be formed integrally. The spout passage 10 and the water supply passage 11 are made of an insulating material such as resin. For example, the spout passage 10 and the water supply passage 11 are made of vinyl chloride.

[0031] The spout path section 10 is housed in the spout main body section 2. The spout path section 10 is provided with a conductive joint section 13. The spout path section 10 is configured by connecting a first spout path section 10a and a second spout path section 10b by the joint section 13. Note that the spout path section 10 may be configured as a single path section without using the joint section 13.

[0032] The first spout path section 10a is provided closer to the spout 4a side than the joint section 13. The first spout path section 10a connects the joint section 13 and the spout cap 4.

[0033] In the following, the upstream and downstream sides may be used to describe the flow direction of flush water that flows through the water passage section 3 and is discharged from the water discharge port 4a. The flush water flows from the upstream side to the downstream side and is discharged from the water discharge port 4a. In other words, the upstream side is the side of the flush water supply source, and the downstream side is the side of the water discharge port 4a.

[0034] The second spout path section 10b is provided upstream of the joint section 13. The second spout path section 10b connects the joint section 13 and the water supply path section 11.

[0035] The joint portion 13 is provided so that the distance to the spout outlet 4a is shorter than the distance to the base end of the spout body 2.

[0036] The water supply path 11 is provided upstream of the spout path 10. The water supply path 11 is a supply pipe that is not housed in the spout main body 2. The water supply path 11 is connected to a supply source of cleaning water. A valve 12 is provided in the water supply path 11.

[0037] Valve 12 is an electromagnetic valve and includes an actuator. The actuator includes a motor, etc. Valve 12 is opened and closed by the actuator. Valve 12 is opened and closed by the actuator operating based on a signal sent from control device 7. When valve 12 is opened, flush water is discharged from the water discharge port 4a of the water discharge cap 4. When valve 12 is closed, the flush water is stopped.

[0038] The water discharge cap 4 is provided on the tip side of the spout main body 2. The water discharge cap 4 discharges flush water supplied via the water passage 3. The water discharge cap 4 is provided so as to discharge flush water downward or diagonally downward.

[0039] A water spouting port 4a is formed in the water spouting cap 4. The water spouting port 4a communicates with the spout path portion 10 of the water passage portion 3, specifically, with the first spout path portion 10a. The water spouting cap 4 is desirably made of an insulating material such as plastic, such as resin.

[0040] The ground conduction part 5 is a conductor that connects the water passage part 3 to ground. The ground conduction part 5 connects the water passage part 3 to the ground line LG (see FIG. 2) of the control device 7, thereby grounding the water passage part 3. One end of the ground conduction part 5 is connected to the joint part 13. The other end of the ground conduction part 5 is connected to the ground line LG of the control device 7. The ground conduction part 5 is connected to the spout passage part 10 so that the distance between the connection point with the spout passage part 10 and the water outlet 4a is shorter than the distance between the connection point with the water passage part 3 and the base end of the spout main body part 2. The ground conduction part 5 has contact resistance with water, etc., and generates resistance Rg.

[0041] Sensor 6 detects the presence or absence of a detection target within a predetermined detection range. Sensor 6 is an electrostatic sensor that uses spout main body 2 as an electrode. Spout main body 2 (sensor 6) is connected to control device 7 via connection part 6a. Control device 7, which will be described later, includes an electrostatic sensor board that has an electrostatic sensor IC and the like that receives a detection signal when a detection target is detected by spout main body 2 (sensor 6) and converts it into a signal that can determine whether detection is possible or not.

[0042] By shortening the length of the connection part 6a, which transmits the detection signal detected by the spout main body 2 (sensor 6) to the control device 7, as much as possible, it is possible to suppress noise entering from the connection part 6a (e.g., harness) and reduce its effect on the detection signal.

[0043] An electrostatic sensor board having an electrostatic sensor IC or the like may be disposed near the lower side of the base 100 to which the spout main body 2 (sensor 6) is attached, separate from the control device 7. This allows the length of the connection portion 6a connecting the spout main body 2 (sensor 6) and the electrostatic sensor board to be shortened.

[0044] When a detection object approaches the spout main body 2 (sensor 6), the capacitance changes. The sensor 6 detects the presence or absence of a detection object according to the amount of change in capacitance. For example, the capacitance increases when the detection object approaches the spout main body 2 (sensor 6). The capacitance also increases when flush water is discharged from the spout 4a. The capacitance also increases when the flush water and the detection object are electrically connected. The sensor 6 detects the capacitance using the spout main body 2 as a detection electrode.

[0045] Since the sensor 6 uses the spout main body 2 as an electrode, its detection range is mainly around the spout main body 2 (sensor 6), including above the spout main body 2 (sensor 6) and the sides of the spout main body 2 (sensor 6).

[0046] The control device 7 is, for example, a computer, and includes a control unit 7a and a storage unit 7b.

[0047] The memory unit 7b stores programs that control various processes executed in the water faucet device 1. The memory unit 7b is realized by a storage device such as a semiconductor memory element, such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory.

[0048] The control unit 7a controls the operation of the faucet device 1 by reading and executing a program stored in the memory unit 7b. The program may be recorded on a computer-readable storage medium and installed from the storage medium into the memory unit 7b of the control device 7. Examples of computer-readable storage media include a hard disk and a memory card.

[0049] The control device 7 switches the state of the flush water between a water discharge state and a water stop state depending on the detection result of the detection object by the sensor 6. The water discharge state is a state in which flush water is discharged from the water discharge port 4a. The water stop state is a state in which flush water is not discharged from the water discharge port 4a.

[0050] When sensor 6 detects a detection target while the water is stopped, control device 7 opens valve 12 to switch the state of flush water from a stopped state to a discharging state. Specifically, when the amount of change in capacitance detected by sensor 6 while the water is stopped changes by more than a first threshold, control device 7 generates a signal to open valve 12 and sends the generated signal to valve 12. This opens valve 12 and switches the state of flush water from a stopped state to a discharging state.

[0051] When a detection object is detected by sensor 6 in the water discharge state, control device 7 closes valve 12, thereby switching the state of flush water from the water discharge state to the water stop state. Specifically, when the amount of change in capacitance detected by sensor 6 in the water discharge state changes by more than a second threshold, control device 7 generates a signal to close valve 12 and sends the generated signal to valve 12. This closes valve 12, and the state of flush water is switched from the water discharge state to the water stop state.

[0052] The first threshold value is the amount of change in capacitance that occurs when, for example, a user holds their hand over the spout body 2 to cause water to be discharged from the faucet device 1. The second threshold value is the amount of change in capacitance that occurs when, for example, a user holds their hand over the spout body 2 to cause the faucet device 1 to stop water flow. The first threshold value and the second threshold value are each preset values. The first threshold value and the second threshold value may be the same value or different values.

[0053] <Operation explanation of the faucet device> Here, the operation of the faucet device 1 will be described with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is an electrical circuit diagram corresponding to the faucet device 1.

[0054] The control device 7 is connected to an external power source and has an AC power source 30. The control device 7 includes an impedance R(cd) as an internal impedance. The impedance R(cd) is, for example, about 0.01 kΩ. Note that the values ​​of the impedance R(cd) and the other impedances and resistances described below are merely examples and are not limiting.

[0055] The control device 7 is connected to the spout main body 2 by the connection part 6a. The spout path part 10 housed in the spout main body 2 is provided close to the spout main body 2, so that electrostatic coupling occurs between the spout main body 2 and the water channel in the spout path part 10. The impedance R(Cs) of the electrostatic coupling between the spout main body 2 and the water channel in the spout path part 10 is, for example, about 10 kΩ.

[0056] The spout path section 10 is grounded via the valve 12. The path L1 of the water channel in the spout path section 10 via the valve 12 includes a resistance Rv. The resistance Rv is, for example, about 600 kΩ.

[0057] A ground conduction section 5 is connected to the spout path section 10. A resistance Rg occurs in the ground conduction section 5. The resistance Rg is smaller than the resistance Rv. The resistance Rg is also smaller than the sum of a resistance Rc_out and a resistance Rhc, which will be described later. The resistance Rg is, for example, about 10 kΩ. The ground conduction section 5 is connected to a ground line LG of the control device 7.

[0058] The electrical circuit diagram in Figure 2 shows water discharge path L2 that is formed when wash water lands on the user. Water discharge path L2 is a path that is grounded via the human body when water is discharged. For the sake of explanation, whether or not water lands on the user is shown as switch SW1. When water lands on the user, switch SW1 is in the "ON" state. When water does not lands on the user, switch SW1 is in the "OFF" state.

[0059] The water discharge path L2 includes a resistance Rc_out as a resistance to the flush water discharged from the water discharge cap 4. The resistance Rc_out is the resistance when the distance between the water discharge port 4a and the user (for example, the user's hand) is short. The resistance Rc_out is, for example, about 50 kΩ.

[0060] The water discharge path L2 includes a resistance Rhc corresponding to the human body. The resistance Rhc varies depending on the dryness of the hands, but may be set to approximately 1 kΩ, for example. When the wash water hits the user, the switch SW1 turns "ON" and the water discharge path L2 becomes conductive.

[0061] 2 also shows an operation path L3 that is formed in response to a user's operation to switch between discharging and stopping water. Operation path L3 is a path that corresponds to a user's operation to switch between discharging and stopping water from the faucet device 1. For the sake of explanation, the presence or absence of an electrical connection between the user and the spout main body 2 is shown as switch SW2.

[0062] When a user holds their hand over the spout body 2 to switch the water faucet device 1 on or off, for example, and the distance between the user's hand and the spout body 2 becomes shorter, electrostatic coupling occurs between the user's hand and the spout body 2. The impedance R(ct) of the electrostatic coupling between the user's hand and the spout body 2 is, for example, about 100 kΩ.

[0063] When the user's hand approaches the spout body 2, the user's hand and the spout body 2 are electrically connected. When the user and the spout body 2 are electrically connected, the switch SW2 is in the "ON" state. When the user's hand is not over the spout body 2 and the user and the spout body 2 are not electrically connected, the switch SW2 is in the "OFF" state.

[0064] The operation path L3 includes a resistance Rht corresponding to the human body. The resistance Rht is, for example, about 1 kΩ. For example, when a user holds their hand over the spout body 2, the switch SW2 turns "ON" and the operation path L3 becomes conductive.

[0065] When the flush water is stopped and a hand is not held over the spout body 2, the switches SW1 and SW2 are both "OFF." In this case, the resistance Rg of the ground conduction part 5 is smaller than the resistance Rv, so that current mainly flows through the ground conduction part 5.

[0066] When a user holds their hand over the spout body 2 to cause water to be discharged from the water faucet device 1 in the state shown in Figure 2, the distance between the user and the spout body 2 becomes shorter, and switch SW2 turns to the "ON" state, as shown in Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram showing the flow of current when a hand is held over the spout body 2.

[0067] In this case, current also flows through operation path L3, increasing the change in capacitance detected by sensor 6. The amount of change in capacitance then exceeds the first threshold, and a human body is detected. When a human body is detected, valve 12 opens, and the state of flush water is switched from a stopped state to a discharge state.

[0068] When the state of the flush water is switched from a stopped state to a discharge state, flush water is discharged from the water discharge port 4a. When the discharged flush water lands on the user's hand, switch SW1 turns "ON" as shown in Figure 4. Figure 4 is a diagram showing the flow of current when flush water lands on the user's hand. It is assumed here that the user no longer holds their hand over the spout main body 2, and switch SW2 turns "OFF."

[0069] When wash water lands on the user's hands, a current also flows in water discharge path L2, but the sum of resistances Rc_out and Rhc in water discharge path L2 is greater than resistance Rg in ground conduction unit 5. Therefore, the current mainly flows through ground conduction unit 5.

[0070] Here, assuming that the distance from the water outlet 4a to the point where water hits the user's hand and the resistance of the human body are constant, the amount of change in capacitance when water hits the hand increases as the electrostatic coupling between the spout main body 2 and the water channel in the spout path 10 from the point where the ground conduction 5 is connected to the spout path 10 to the water outlet 4a becomes stronger. Therefore, by locating the point where the ground conduction 5 is connected to the spout path 10 as close as possible to the water outlet 4a, the electrostatic coupling between the spout main body 2 and the water channel in the spout path 10 when water hits the hand is suppressed, and the amount of change in capacitance when water hits the hand decreases.

[0071] Therefore, by connecting the ground conduction part 5 to the spout path part 10, the amount of change in capacitance when wash water lands on the user's hand is smaller than the amount of change in capacitance when the hand is held over the spout main body part 2, as shown in Figure 3. Specifically, the amount of change in capacitance detected by the sensor 6 is smaller than the second threshold value. Therefore, the water landing on the user's hand is not detected by the sensor 6 as a human body, and the water discharge state is maintained.

[0072] When the user stops receiving water from the state shown in Figure 4 and places their hand over spout body 2 to stop the water flow in faucet device 1, switch SW1 turns "OFF" and switch SW2 turns "ON" as shown in Figure 3. As a result, the amount of change in capacitance detected by sensor 6 becomes equal to or greater than the second threshold value, a human body is detected, valve 12 closes, and the state of flush water switches from a water discharge state to a water stop state.

[0073] <Explanation of Comparative Example> In a comparative example of a water faucet device 150 that does not have the ground conduction part 5 of the first embodiment, when flush water is stopped, current flows through the valve 12 as shown in Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the current flow in the comparative example when water is stopped.

[0074] In the comparative example, when wash water lands on the user's hand, switch SW1 is turned "ON." Resistances Rc_out and Rhc in water discharge path L2 are smaller than resistance Rv. As shown in FIG. 6, current flows through water discharge path L2, and the current increases. Therefore, the change in capacitance detected by sensor 6 increases and may exceed the second threshold value. As a result, water landing on the user's hand may be mistakenly detected as a hand being held over spout main body 2, and the water may be stopped. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the flow of current when wash water lands on the user's hand in the comparative example.

[0075] The faucet device 1 according to the embodiment is provided with a ground conduction section 5, thereby preventing the false detection that occurs in the comparative example when flush water lands on the user's hands.

[0076] <Water discharge processing> Next, the water discharge process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the water discharge process in the first embodiment.

[0077] The controller 7 determines whether or not the flush water is in a discharge state (S100). Specifically, the controller 7 determines whether or not the valve 12 is open.

[0078] If the flush water is not in a discharge state (S100: No), that is, if the flush water is in a stopped state, the control device 7 determines whether the amount of change in capacitance is equal to or greater than a first threshold value (S101).

[0079] If the amount of change in capacitance is equal to or greater than the first threshold, the control device 7 determines that, for example, the user has placed their hand over the spout main body 2 and performed a water discharge operation. If the amount of change in capacitance is smaller than the first threshold, the control device 7 determines, for example, that the user has not placed their hand over the spout main body 2 and has not performed a water discharge operation.

[0080] If the amount of change in capacitance is equal to or greater than the first threshold (S101: Yes), the control device 7 switches the state of flush water from a stopped state to a discharging state (S102). Specifically, the control device 7 generates a signal to open valve 12 and sends the generated signal to valve 12. This opens valve 12, causes flush water to be discharged from the water outlet 4a, and the state of flush water is switched from a stopped state to a discharging state.

[0081] If the amount of change in capacitance is smaller than the first threshold value (S101: No), the control device 7 ends the current process.

[0082] If the flush water is in the discharge state (S100: Yes), the control device 7 determines whether the amount of change in capacitance is equal to or greater than the second threshold value (S103).

[0083] If the amount of change in capacitance is equal to or greater than the second threshold, the control device 7 determines that the user has performed a water stop operation, for example, by placing their hand over the spout body 2. If the amount of change in capacitance is smaller than the second threshold, the control device 7 determines that the user has not placed their hand over the spout body 2, for example, and has not performed a water stop operation.

[0084] If the amount of change in capacitance is equal to or greater than the second threshold (S103: Yes), the control device 7 switches the state of flush water from a water discharge state to a water stop state (S104). Specifically, the control device 7 generates a signal to close valve 12 and sends the generated signal to valve 12. This closes valve 12, stops the flush water from the water outlet 4a, and switches the state of flush water from a water discharge state to a water stop state.

[0085] If the amount of change in capacitance is smaller than the second threshold value (S103: No), the control device 7 ends the current process.

[0086] <Effects> The faucet device 1 comprises a conductive spout main body 2, a water flow path 3, a sensor 6, a control device 7, and a grounding conductor 5. At least a portion of the water flow path 3 is housed in the spout main body 2 and guides flush water to the spout 4a. The sensor 6 detects capacitance using the spout main body 2 as a detection electrode. The control device 7 switches the flush water state from a stopped state to a discharge state when the amount of change in capacitance in the discharge state is equal to or greater than a second threshold. The grounding conductor 5 connects the water flow path 3 to ground.

[0087] As a result, by connecting the water flow path 3 to the ground, the faucet device 1 can prevent an increase in the amount of change in capacitance when flush water is in a discharging state and lands on a human body. Therefore, the faucet device 1 can prevent erroneous detection that a human body is approaching the spout main body 2 when flush water lands on a human body. In other words, the faucet device 1 can prevent water from being stopped due to erroneous detection of a human body. One method of preventing erroneous detection is to increase the distance between the spout main body 2 and the water flow path 3, but this method increases the size of the spout main body 2 and the size of the faucet device 1. In contrast, by connecting the water flow path 3 to the ground, the faucet device 1 can prevent erroneous detection without increasing the size.

[0088] The water passage section 3 includes a spout passage section 10 and a water supply passage section 11. The spout passage section 10 is housed in the spout main body section 2. The water supply passage section 11 is provided upstream of the spout passage section 10 in the flow direction of flush water in the water passage section 3. The ground conduction section 5 connects the spout passage section 10 to ground.

[0089] As a result, by connecting the grounding conductive part 5 to the spout path part 10 close to the spout 4a, the faucet device 1 can reduce the change in capacitance when flush water lands on a human body. Therefore, the faucet device 1 can further prevent the amount of change in capacitance from increasing when flush water is in the discharged state and the flush water lands on a human body. Therefore, the faucet device 1 can further prevent erroneous detection that a human body is approaching the spout main body 2 when flush water lands on a human body.

[0090] The distance between the connection point of the ground conduction portion 5 with the spout path portion 10 and the water outlet 4a is shorter than the distance between the connection point and the base end of the spout main body 2.

[0091] As a result, by connecting the grounding conductive part 5 to the spout path part 10 close to the spout 4a, the faucet device 1 can reduce the change in capacitance when flush water lands on a human body. Therefore, the faucet device 1 can further prevent the amount of change in capacitance from increasing when flush water is in the discharged state and the flush water lands on a human body. Therefore, the faucet device 1 can further prevent erroneous detection that a human body is approaching the spout main body 2 when flush water lands on a human body.

[0092] The spout path 10 includes a conductive joint 13. The ground conductive part 5 is connected to the joint 13.

[0093] This allows the faucet device 1 to reduce the change in capacitance when flush water hits the human body. The faucet device 1 also allows the ground conduction section 5 and the spout path section 10 to be connected with a simple configuration.

[0094] (Second embodiment) Next, a water faucet device 200 according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 8. Here, differences from the first embodiment will be described, and the same components as those in the water faucet device 1 according to the first embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment and detailed description will be omitted. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating the water faucet device 200 according to the second embodiment.

[0095] The faucet device 200 further includes insulating portions 201 and 202. The insulating portions 201 and 202 are provided within the spout body 2. Specifically, the insulating portion 201 is provided between the grounding conduction portion 5 and the spout body 2. The insulating portion 201 insulates the grounding conduction portion 5 from the spout body 2. For example, multiple insulating portions 201 may be provided. The insulating portion 202 is also provided between the spout body 2 and a conductive member connected to the grounding conduction portion 5, for example, the joint portion 13 connected to the grounding conduction portion 5. The insulating portion 202 insulates the spout body 2 from the joint portion 13. The insulating portions 201 and 202 are made of an insulating material such as resin. The faucet device 200 is provided with at least one of the insulating portions 201 and 202.

[0096] When the ground conduction part 5 and the spout body 2 come into contact and become conductive, the capacitance coupling between the ground conduction part 5 and the spout body 2 becomes very strong. Therefore, when a human body approaches the spout body 2, the change in capacitance is small, and the amount of change in capacitance may be smaller than the first threshold value and the second threshold value. In other words, when a user operates the faucet device 1 to switch between discharging and stopping water, the flush water state may not be able to be switched between discharging and stopping water in accordance with the user's operation.

[0097] In contrast, faucet device 200 is equipped with insulating parts 201 and 202. Insulating part 201 is provided inside spout body 2 and insulates grounding conduction part 5 from spout body 2. Insulating part 202 insulates joint part 13, which is a conductive member connected to grounding conduction part 5, from spout body 2.

[0098] Thus, by providing insulating parts 201, 202 between ground conductive part 5 and spout main body 2, faucet device 200 can reliably change capacitance and detect the approach of a human body when the human body approaches spout main body 2. In other words, faucet device 200 can accurately switch the state of flush water between a stopped state and a discharge state in response to operation by the user.

[0099] (Third embodiment) Next, a water faucet device 210 according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 9. Here, differences from the first embodiment will be described, and the same components as those in the water faucet device 1 according to the first embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment and detailed description will be omitted. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating the water faucet device 210 according to the third embodiment.

[0100] The faucet device 210 further includes a holding portion 211. The holding portion 211 holds the grounding conduction portion 5 in a state spaced apart from the spout main body 2. The holding portion 211 is, for example, a hook that holds the grounding conduction portion 5 to the spout path 10. The holding portion 211 may be a band that fixes the grounding conduction portion 5 to the spout path 10. The holding portion 211 is preferably made of an insulating material such as resin. The holding portion 211 may be the insulating portion 201 in the second embodiment.

[0101] This allows the faucet device 210 to prevent contact between the ground conductive portion 5 and the spout main body portion 2, and allows the state of the flushing water to be accurately switched between a water-stopped state and a water-discharged state depending on the user's operation.

[0102] (Fourth embodiment) Next, a water faucet device 220 according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 10. Here, differences from the first embodiment will be described, and the same components as those in the water faucet device 1 according to the first embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment and detailed description will be omitted. Figure 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a water faucet device 220 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0103] In the water faucet device 220, the grounding conductive part 221 is connected to the water-spouting cap 222. The water-spouting cap 222 is conductive. An insulating member is provided between the water-spouting cap 222 and the spout main body 2, and the water-spouting cap 222 and the spout main body 2 are electrically isolated from each other.

[0104] This allows the faucet device 220 to reduce the change in capacitance when flush water lands on a human body. Therefore, the faucet device 220 can further prevent the amount of change in capacitance from increasing when flush water is in the discharging state and the flush water lands on a human body. Therefore, the faucet device 220 can further prevent erroneous detection that a human body is approaching the spout main body 2 when flush water lands on a human body.

[0105] In the water faucet device 1 according to the modified example, the grounding continuity part 5 may be connected to the base end side of the spout path part 10, i.e., the water supply path part 11 side, instead of the joint part 13. In other words, the grounding continuity part 5 may be connected to the base end side of the spout path part 10 and the ground line LG in the control device 7.

[0106] In the water faucet device 1 according to the modified example, the grounding conduction unit 5 may be connected to a metal member such as a water pipe or a handrail, instead of the grounding line LG in the control device 7. In other words, the grounding conduction unit 5 is grounded via the metal member.

[0107] The above embodiments and modifications may be applied in any suitable combination. For example, the water faucet device 220 according to the fourth embodiment may include an insulating section 201 or a retaining section 211. For example, the method of connecting the grounding conductive section 5 according to the modifications may be applied to any one of the water faucet devices 200, 210, and 220 according to the second to fourth embodiments.

[0108] Further advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 1, 200, 210, 220 Faucet equipment 2 Spout body 3 Water passage section 4, 222 Spout cap 4a Outlet 5, 221 Ground conduction section 6 Sensor (electrostatic sensor) 7 Control Device 10 Spout path section 10a First spout path section 10b Second spout path section 13 Joint 12 valves 201 Insulation section 202 Insulation section 211 Holding part

Claims

1. A conductive spout body; A water passage portion, at least a portion of which is housed in the spout body portion and which guides flush water to the water outlet; An electrostatic sensor that detects electrostatic capacitance using the spout main body as a detection electrode; a control device that switches the state of the flush water from a stopped state to a discharge state when the amount of change in capacitance is equal to or greater than a first threshold value in a stopped state, and switches the state of the flush water from the discharge state to a stopped state when the amount of change in capacitance is equal to or greater than a second threshold value in the discharge state; Equipped with a ground conducting portion that connects the water passage portion to a ground, The water passage portion is a spout path portion accommodated in the spout main body portion; a water supply path portion provided upstream of the spout path portion in the flow direction of the flush water in the water flow path portion; Including, The ground conduction portion connects the spout path portion to the ground.

2. The faucet device according to claim 1, wherein the distance between the ground conduction portion and the spout path portion and the spout outlet is shorter than the distance between the connection portion and the base end of the spout body portion.

3. The spout path portion includes a conductive joint portion, The water faucet device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the grounding conductive part is connected to the joint part.

4. a conductive water discharge cap having the water discharge outlet, The water faucet device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the grounding conductive part is connected to the water discharge cap.

5. an insulating portion provided in the spout body portion and insulating the spout body portion from at least one of the grounding conductive portion and a conductive member connected to the grounding conductive portion; The water faucet device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising:

6. a holding portion that holds the grounding portion in a state spaced apart from the spout body; The water faucet device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising:

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