Bathtub cleaning unit mounting structure and bathtub system

Abstract

To provide a fitting structure of a bathtub washing unit which is easily installed and a bathtub system.SOLUTION: In a fitting structure of a bathtub washing unit for washing a bathtub with a side wall, a bathtub washing unit includes: a bathtub washing device which has a function for making a washing nozzle installed in a bathtub jet a detergent liquid and is arranged outside the side wall; a detergent tank which is connected to the bathtub washing device for accumulating the detergent liquid and is connected by a detergent injection port and connecting piping; and air releasing piping in which one end is connected to the detergent tank for releasing air in the detergent tank. In the fitting structure of a bathtub washing unit, the detergent injection port is not overlapped with the detergent tank from the top view, and in a radial cross section of a first part of the air releasing piping, the lowest point in an inner peripheral surface of the first part is higher than the detergent injection port.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION Aspects of the present invention generally relate to a mounting structure for a bathtub cleaning unit and a bathtub system. [Background technology]

[0002] Daily cleaning of the bathtub can be a significant burden for bathtub users. To address this issue, a bathtub system equipped with a bathtub cleaning unit for cleaning the bathtub is known. The bathtub cleaning unit includes a detergent tank and a bathtub cleaning device. The bathtub cleaning device sprays detergent liquid from the detergent tank onto the inner wall of the bathtub using a nozzle. This allows the bathtub to be cleaned automatically, reducing the burden of cleaning the bathtub. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-68859 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 3598808 [Patent Document 3] Patent No. 4682222 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] For example, the detergent inlet for adding detergent liquid to the detergent tank is arranged vertically next to the detergent tank. In such cases, the arrangement of the detergent inlet and the detergent tank is restricted, and it may be difficult to secure space to install the detergent inlet and the detergent tank. For example, depending on the shape and size of the bathtub, it may be difficult to align the detergent inlet and the detergent tank vertically, making it impossible to install a bathtub cleaning unit.

[0005] The present invention was made based on the recognition of such problems, and aims to provide a mounting structure for a bathtub cleaning unit and a bathtub system that are easy to install. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The first invention is an installation structure for a bathtub cleaning unit that cleans a bathtub having a side wall, the bathtub cleaning unit having the function of spraying detergent liquid from a cleaning nozzle installed in the bathtub and including: a bathtub cleaning device that is arranged on the outside of the side wall; a detergent tank that is connected to the bathtub cleaning device and stores detergent liquid, the detergent tank being connected to a detergent inlet by a connecting pipe; and an air vent pipe that is connected to the detergent tank at one end and vents air from the detergent tank, the detergent inlet does not overlap with the detergent tank when viewed from above, and in a radial cross section of a first part of the air vent pipe, the lowest point on the inner surface of the first part is higher than the detergent inlet.

[0007] With this bathtub cleaning unit mounting structure, the detergent inlet does not overlap with the detergent tank when viewed from above, which increases the flexibility in arranging the detergent inlet and the detergent tank, making it easier to install the bathtub cleaning unit. For example, a large-capacity detergent tank can be installed in a relatively small bathtub. In addition, since the detergent tank is connected to the detergent inlet by a connecting pipe, detergent liquid can be supplied from the detergent inlet to the detergent tank via the connecting pipe even if the detergent inlet does not overlap with the detergent tank when viewed from above. Furthermore, by providing an air vent pipe to remove air from the detergent tank, detergent can be injected without first removing air from the detergent tank through the detergent inlet via the connecting pipe. This allows for smooth detergent injection even when the detergent tank and the detergent inlet are far apart, shortening the time required to complete the injection of detergent liquid. Furthermore, in the radial cross section of the first section of the air vent pipe, the lowest point on the inner circumferential surface of the first section is higher than the detergent inlet, which prevents detergent liquid from overflowing from the air vent pipe, allowing the user to visually confirm that the detergent tank is full.

[0008] The second invention is an installation structure characterized in that, in the first invention, the side walls have a pair of first side wall portions extending in the short direction when viewed from above, and a pair of second side wall portions extending in the long direction when viewed from above, and the bathtub cleaning device is positioned outside one of the pair of first side wall portions.

[0009] This mounting structure allows the bathtub cleaning device to be installed on the outer periphery of the short side of the bathtub, where space is relatively easy to secure. This makes it possible to mount the bathtub cleaning unit even in small bathtubs, for example.

[0010] A third invention is the mounting structure according to the second invention, characterized in that the detergent tank is disposed outside one of the pair of first side wall portions.

[0011] With this mounting structure, the detergent tank is located on the outer periphery of the short side of the bathtub, where space is relatively easy to secure. This makes it possible to mount the bathtub cleaning unit even in small bathtubs, for example.

[0012] The fourth invention is an installation structure characterized in that, in the second or third invention, the detergent inlet is positioned on the other side of the pair of first side walls of a rim provided at the upper end of the side wall of the bathtub.

[0013] This mounting structure allows the detergent inlet and the detergent tank to be spaced apart, making it easier to install the bathtub cleaning unit. For example, even if the size or shape of the bathtub makes it impossible to install the detergent inlet directly above the detergent tank, by locating the detergent inlet away from the detergent tank, it is possible to utilize the free space on the bathtub rim.

[0014] The fifth invention is an installation structure characterized in that, in any one of the first to fourth inventions, a waterproof pan is provided on the outer periphery of the bathtub, and the other end of the air vent pipe is positioned inside the waterproof pan.

[0015] According to this mounting structure, by installing the other end of the air vent pipe inside the waterproof pan, even if detergent solution leaks from the other end of the air vent pipe, the detergent solution will fall into the waterproof pan, which can prevent the detergent solution from leaking to the outside, for example.

[0016] The sixth invention is an installation structure characterized in that, in the fifth invention, the waterproof pan has a coating area coated with paint that is more resistant to detergent solution than the material of the waterproof pan, and the other end of the air vent pipe is positioned above the coating area.

[0017] With this mounting structure, even if a small amount of detergent leaks from the other end of the air vent pipe, the detergent will fall into the relatively durable application area, thereby preventing deterioration of the waterproof pan due to the detergent.

[0018] A seventh invention is an attachment structure according to any one of the first to sixth inventions, characterized in that a portion of the air vent pipe is restricted by a restricting member so as to extend upward from the one end.

[0019] With this mounting structure, the restricting member extends part of the air vent pipe upward, allowing the air vent pipe to be installed so that the lowest point of the inner surface of the first part is more reliably higher than the detergent inlet.

[0020] The eighth invention is a bathtub system comprising a bathtub having a side wall and a bathtub cleaning unit for cleaning the bathtub, the bathtub cleaning unit having the function of spraying detergent liquid from a cleaning nozzle installed in the bathtub and including a bathtub cleaning device arranged on the outside of the side wall, a detergent tank connected to the bathtub cleaning device and storing detergent liquid, the detergent tank connected to a detergent inlet by a connecting pipe, and an air vent pipe one end of which is connected to the detergent tank and which vents air from the detergent tank, the detergent inlet does not overlap with the detergent tank when viewed from above, and in a radial cross section of a first part of the air vent pipe, the lowest point on the inner surface of the first part is higher than the detergent inlet.

[0021] With this bathtub system, the detergent inlet does not overlap with the detergent tank when viewed from above, which increases the flexibility in the placement of the detergent inlet and the detergent tank, making it easier to install the bathtub cleaning unit. For example, a large-capacity detergent tank can be installed in a relatively small bathtub. In addition, since the detergent tank is connected to the detergent inlet by a connecting pipe, detergent liquid can be supplied from the detergent inlet to the detergent tank via the connecting pipe even if the detergent inlet does not overlap with the detergent tank when viewed from above. Furthermore, by providing an air vent pipe to remove air from the detergent tank, detergent can be injected without first removing air from the detergent tank through the detergent inlet via the connecting pipe. This allows for smooth detergent injection even when the detergent tank and the detergent inlet are far apart, shortening the time required to complete the injection of detergent liquid. Furthermore, in the radial cross section of the first section of the air vent pipe, the lowest point on the inner circumferential surface of the first section is higher than the detergent inlet, which prevents detergent liquid from overflowing from the air vent pipe, allowing the user to visually confirm that the detergent tank is full. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] According to aspects of the present invention, a mounting structure for a bathtub cleaning unit and a bathtub system that are easy to install are provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a bathtub system according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view illustrating a portion of a bathtub system according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] A cross-sectional perspective view illustrating a portion of a bathtub system according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] A cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a bathtub system according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] A cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a bathtub system according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] A cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a bathtub system according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 is a perspective view illustrating the periphery of a detergent tank of a bathtub system according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 8] 1 is a perspective view illustrating the periphery of a detergent tank of a bathtub system according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 9] 9(a) and 9(b) are schematic diagrams illustrating the air vent piping of the bathtub system according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, like components are designated by like reference numerals and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted where appropriate. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a bathtub system according to an embodiment. Bathtub system 500 includes, for example, bathtub 100 and bathtub cleaning unit 101 that cleans bathtub 100. Bathtub cleaning unit 101 includes bathtub cleaning device 200, detergent tank 10, and air vent piping 60. Bathtub cleaning unit 101 may further include cleaning nozzle 30 and drive unit 50.

[0025] The bathtub 100 is placed, for example, on the floor of a bathroom. The bathtub 100 is, for example, in the shape of a roughly rectangular box, and is open upward. The bathtub 100 can store hot and cold water inside, allowing people to take a bath in the bathtub 100. The bathtub 100 has, for example, a horizontally elongated shape with long and short sides when viewed from above. The bathtub 100 has a bottom 11, a sidewall 12 extending upward from the outer periphery of the bottom 11, and a rim 13 provided at the upper end of the sidewall 12. The rim 13 extends from the outer periphery of the upper end of the sidewall 12 to the outside of the bathtub. The bottom 11 has an inner bottom surface 111. The sidewall 12 has an inner wall side surface 112. The inner bottom surface 111 and the inner wall side surface 112 are the inner surfaces of the bathtub 100. A drain port 115 is provided in the inner bottom surface 111 to drain liquid in the bathtub 100 downward.

[0026] Bathtub cleaning device 200 has the function of spraying detergent liquid from cleaning nozzle 30 installed in bathtub 100. Specifically, bathtub cleaning device 200 includes, for example, at least one of pump 18 and pump 40. Bathtub cleaning device 200 may further include detergent mixing unit 20 and control unit 28. Note that spraying detergent liquid includes spraying a liquid containing detergent liquid (for example, detergent water, described below).

[0027] The detergent tank 10 is connected to the bathtub cleaning device 200. The detergent tank 10 is connected to a detergent inlet 135 by a connection pipe 70. The detergent inlet 135 is an opening through which detergent liquid is poured (injected) to supply the detergent liquid to the detergent tank 10. The detergent tank 10 stores the detergent liquid poured through the detergent inlet 135. The detergent tank 10 may be provided with a water level detection unit 10F (e.g., a float switch) that detects the water level of the detergent liquid inside the tank.

[0028] One end of the air vent pipe 60 is connected to the detergent tank 10. The other end of the air vent pipe 60 is open to, for example, the atmosphere. The air vent pipe 60 vents air from within the detergent tank 10. For example, when detergent liquid flows into the detergent tank 10 from the detergent inlet 135 via the connecting pipe 70, the air within the detergent tank 10 flows through the air vent pipe 60 and out of the detergent tank 10.

[0029] The detergent mixing unit 20 is provided downstream of the detergent tank 10 and the water supply source WS. The detergent mixing unit 20 mixes the detergent liquid supplied from the detergent tank 10 with the water supplied from the water supply source WS to produce detergent water. Note that in this specification, the term "water" includes not only cold water but also heated hot water. In other words, the water supply source WS may include, for example, a water heater.

[0030] The detergent mixing section 20 is, for example, a tank that stores detergent water. For example, the detergent mixing section 20 stores detergent water when spraying detergent water from the washing nozzle 30, and stores water when spraying water from the washing nozzle 30. Note that the detergent mixing section 20 is not limited to this and may be, for example, a Venturi tube.

[0031] A detergent flow path 15 is provided between the detergent tank 10 and the detergent mixing section 20. The detergent flow path 15 connects the detergent tank 10 and the detergent mixing section 20. An on-off valve 16 and a pump 18, for example, are provided in the detergent flow path 15.

[0032] The on-off valve 16 is, for example, a solenoid valve. The on-off valve 16 controls the supply of detergent to the detergent mixing section 20. When the on-off valve 16 is opened, the detergent stored in the detergent tank 10 is supplied to the detergent mixing section 20. When the on-off valve 16 is closed, the supply of detergent from the detergent tank 10 to the detergent mixing section 20 is stopped.

[0033] The pump 18 is provided, for example, downstream of the on-off valve 16. The pump 18 sends the detergent in the detergent flow path 15 to the detergent mixing section 20.

[0034] A water supply passage 25 is provided between the water supply source WS and the detergent mixing section 20. The water supply passage 25 connects the water supply source WS and the detergent mixing section 20. An on-off valve 26, for example, is provided in the water supply passage 25.

[0035] The on-off valve 26 is, for example, a solenoid valve. The on-off valve 26 controls the supply of water to the detergent mixing section 20. When the on-off valve 26 is opened, water from the water supply source WS is supplied to the detergent mixing section 20. When the on-off valve 26 is closed, the supply of water from the water supply source WS to the detergent mixing section 20 is stopped.

[0036] Cleaning nozzle 30 is provided, for example, on inner bottom surface 111 or inner wall side surface 112 of bathtub 100. Cleaning nozzle 30 has a spray outlet 31. Spout outlet 31 sprays liquid (detergent water or water) toward at least a portion of inner wall side surface 112 of bathtub 100. Cleaning nozzle 30 is provided, for example, rotatable about a vertical axis.

[0037] A cleaning flow path 35 is provided between the detergent mixing section 20 and the cleaning nozzle 30. The cleaning flow path 35 connects the detergent mixing section 20 and the cleaning nozzle 30. A pump 40, for example, is provided in the cleaning flow path 35.

[0038] The pump 40 controls the ejection of the liquid from the ejection port 31. The pump 40 is provided downstream of the detergent mixing section 20. Instead of the pump 40, for example, an on-off valve such as a solenoid valve may be provided. The pump 40 controls, for example, the instantaneous ejection flow rate of the liquid from the ejection port 31.

[0039] The driving unit 50 drives the cleaning nozzle 30. The driving unit 50 has, for example, a rotating unit (for example, a stepping motor) that rotates the cleaning nozzle 30 about an axis in the vertical direction.

[0040] The control unit 28 is a control circuit including, for example, a microcomputer. The control unit 28 is electrically connected to at least one of the pump 18, the pump 40, and the drive unit 50, and controls at least one of the pump 18, the pump 40, and the drive unit 50. The control unit 28 controls, for example, the pump 40 to control the timing of starting and stopping the ejection of liquid from the ejection port 31 and the ejection amount. The control unit 28 also controls, for example, the drive unit 50 to control the timing of starting and stopping the drive of the cleaning nozzle 30 and the rotation speed.

[0041] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a part of the bathtub system according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the bathtub system 500 includes a bathtub 100 and a waterproof pan 150 that is placed around the periphery of the bathtub 100. The side walls 12 of the bathtub 100 have a pair of first side walls 12A and a pair of second side walls 12B. In a top view (when viewed from above), each of the pair of first side walls 12A extends in the short direction of the bathtub 100. Specifically, the pair of first side walls 12A are the rear wall 12a and the front wall 12b. In a top view, each of the pair of second side walls 12B extends in the long direction of the bathtub 100. Specifically, the pair of second side walls 12B are the right wall 12c and the left wall 12d. A bather, for example, bathes in the bathtub 100 (in the space surrounded by the rear wall 12a, the front wall 12b, the right wall 12c, and the left wall 12d) with their back to the rear wall 12a.

[0042] In this specification, the longitudinal direction of bathtub 100 is referred to as the front-to-rear direction, and the lateral direction of bathtub 100 is referred to as the left-to-right direction. The direction from rear wall 12a to front wall 12b is referred to as the "forward" direction. In other words, the "forward" direction is the direction seen by a bather bathing in bathtub 100 with their back to rear wall 12a. Furthermore, "upper," "lower," "rear," "right side," and "left side" are directions seen by a bather bathing in bathtub 100 with their back to rear wall 12a.

[0043] The rear wall portion 12a is aligned with the front wall portion 12b in the front-rear direction. The rear wall portion 12a and the front wall portion 12b face each other. The rear wall portion 12a and the front wall portion 12b each extend along the left-right direction. The right wall portion 12c is aligned with the left wall portion 12d in the left-right direction. The right wall portion 12c and the left wall portion 12d face each other. The right wall portion 12c and the left wall portion 12d each extend along the front-rear direction.

[0044] For example, right wall 12c is adjacent to the inner wall surface of the bathroom. Left wall 12d is disposed on the floor side of the bathroom's washing area. In other words, the washing area floor is located on the left side of bathtub 100. A bath apron that covers the outside of left wall 12d may be provided on the left side of left wall 12d.

[0045] The rim 13 is, for example, an extension (flange) provided around the entire periphery of the side wall 12 so as to protrude outward in a substantially horizontal direction. The rim 13 has a rear rim portion 13a, a front rim portion 13b, a right rim portion 13c, and a left rim portion 13d. The rear rim portion 13a extends rearward from the upper end of the rear wall portion 12a. The front rim portion 13b extends forward from the upper end of the front wall portion 12b. The right rim portion 13c extends rightward from the upper end of the right wall portion 12c. The left rim portion 13d extends leftward from the upper end of the left wall portion 12d.

[0046] For example, the length (width) in the front-to-rear direction of rear rim portion 13a is longer than the length (width) in the front-to-rear direction of front rim portion 13b, longer than the length (width) in the left-to-right direction of right rim portion 13c, and longer than the length (width) in the left-to-right direction of left rim portion 13d. For example, the length (width) in the front-to-rear direction of front rim portion 13b is longer than the length (width) in the left-to-right direction of right rim portion 13c, and longer than the length (width) in the left-to-right direction of left rim portion 13d.

[0047] The rim 13 has rim corner portions 13ac, 13ad, 13bc, and 13bd. Rim corner portion 13ac connects rear rim portion 13a and right rim portion 13c. Rim corner portion 13ad is aligned with rim corner portion 13ac in the left-right direction. Rim corner portion 13ad connects rear rim portion 13a and left rim portion 13d. In other words, rear rim portion 13a is located between the pair of rim corner portions 13ac and 13ad aligned in the left-right direction.

[0048] Rim corner portion 13bc connects front rim portion 13b and right rim portion 13c. Rim corner portion 13bd is aligned with rim corner portion 13bc in the left-right direction. Rim corner portion 13bd connects front rim portion 13b and left rim portion 13d. In other words, front rim portion 13b is located between the pair of rim corner portions 13bc, 13bd aligned in the left-right direction.

[0049] In this example, the rim 13 has a first raised portion 131 provided on a portion of the rear rim portion 13a, a second raised portion 132 provided on a portion of the right rim portion 13c, and a third raised portion 133 provided on the left rim portion 13d. These first to third raised portions 131 to 133 have an upwardly bulging (protruding) shape. The first to third raised portions 131 to 133 are higher than the upper surface of the front rim portion 13b (or the upper surfaces of the rim corner portions 13bc and 13bd). The first raised portion 131 extends from the right end to the left end of the rear rim portion 13a. The second raised portion 132 extends rearward from near the center of the right rim portion 13c in the fore-and-aft direction. The third raised portion 133 extends rearward from near the center of the left rim portion 13d in the fore-and-aft direction. The first raised portion 131 is smoothly connected to the second raised portion 132 at the rim corner portion 13ac. In other words, a portion of the rim corner portion 13ac rises upward to connect the first raised portion 131 and the second raised portion 132. The first raised portion 131 is smoothly connected to the third raised portion 133 at the rim corner portion 13ad. In other words, a portion of the rim corner portion 13ad rises upward to connect the first raised portion 131 and the third raised portion 133.

[0050] A shelf-like portion 134 on which a pillow (not shown) is placed may be provided in a part of the rear rim portion 13a. The shelf-like portion 134 is located between the first protruding portion 131 and the rear wall portion 12a in a top view.

[0051] The waterproof pan 150 has a pan bottom 150e and pan side walls (rear pan wall 150a, front pan wall 150b, right pan wall 150c, and left pan wall 150d). The pan bottom 150e is the bottom that covers the bottom of the bathtub 100. The pan side walls are side walls that extend upward from the outer periphery of the pan bottom 150e. The rear pan wall 150a is located behind at least a portion of the rear wall 12a of the bathtub 100. The front pan wall 150b is located in front of at least a portion of the front wall 12b of the bathtub 100. The right pan wall 150c is located to the right of at least a portion of the right wall 12c of the bathtub 100. The left pan wall 150d is located to the left of at least a portion of the left wall 12d of the bathtub 100.

[0052] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional perspective view illustrating a portion of the bathtub system according to the embodiment. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the bathtub system 500 shown in Fig. 2, seen obliquely from above. Fig. 3 shows the mounting structure S of the bathtub cleaning unit 101.

[0053] 3, the bathtub cleaning device 200 is disposed on the outside of the sidewall 12 of the bathtub 100. For example, the bathtub cleaning device 200 is disposed on the outside of one of the pair of first sidewalls 12A. For example, at least a portion of the bathtub cleaning device 200 is aligned in the front-to-rear direction with one of the pair of first sidewalls 12A and adjacent to that one of the pair of first sidewalls 12A.

[0054] In this example, at least a portion of the bathtub cleaning device 200 is located rearward of the rear wall 12a. At least a portion of the bathtub cleaning device 200 is located between the rear wall 12a of the bathtub 100 and the rear pan wall 150a of the waterproof pan 150. At least a portion of the bathtub cleaning device 200 is positioned below the rear rim 13a. At least a portion of the bathtub cleaning device 200 may also be positioned below the rim corner 13ac or below the rim corner 13ad. However, at least a portion of the bathtub cleaning device 200 does not necessarily have to be positioned rearward of the rear wall 12a, but may also be positioned forward of the front wall 12b.

[0055] The detergent tank 10 is disposed on the outside of the side wall 12 of the bathtub 100. For example, the detergent tank 10 is disposed on the outside of one of the pair of first side wall portions 12A. For example, the detergent tank 10 is disposed on the same side of the bathtub 100 as the bathtub cleaning device 200. For example, at least a portion of the detergent tank 10 is aligned in the front-to-rear direction with one of the pair of first side wall portions 12A and adjacent to that one of the pair of first side wall portions 12A.

[0056] In this example, at least a portion of the detergent tank 10 is located rearward of the rear wall 12a. At least a portion of the detergent tank 10 is located between the rear wall 12a of the bathtub 100 and the rear pan wall 150a of the waterproof pan 150. The detergent tank 10 is positioned below at least one of the rear rim 13a and the rim corner 13ac. At least a portion of the bathtub cleaning device 200 may be positioned below the rim corner 13ad. However, at least a portion of the bathtub cleaning device 200 is not limited to being positioned rearward of the rear wall 12a, and may also be positioned forward of the front wall 12b.

[0057] The detergent inlet 135 is located at a position that does not overlap with the detergent tank 10 in a top view. In other words, the detergent inlet 135 is not aligned with the detergent tank 10 in the up-down direction. The detergent inlet 135 is located, for example, on the other side of the pair of first side walls 12A of the rim 13. In other words, it is located on the opposite side of the bathtub cleaning device 200 from the bathtub 100. When the bathtub cleaning device 200 is located behind the rear wall 12a, the detergent inlet 135 is located in front of the front wall 12b. When the bathtub cleaning device 200 is located in front of the front wall 12b, the detergent inlet 135 is located behind the rear wall 12a.

[0058] In this example, detergent inlet 135 is located in rim corner portion 13bc. Detergent inlet 135 may also be located in front rim portion 13b or rim corner portion 13bd. Note that detergent inlet 135 located in a member such as a rim refers to an opening provided in an inlet member (described later) when the inlet member is attached to the member. Detergent inlet 135 located in a member such as a rim may also be an opening provided in the member. Detergent inlet 135 may also be located in a member other than the rim (for example, a bath apron).

[0059] One end of the connection pipe 70 is connected to a detergent inlet 135 (inlet member) located in the rim corner portion 13bc. The other end of the connection pipe 70 is connected to the detergent tank 10. The connection pipe 70 extends along the outer periphery of the side wall 12 of the bathtub 100. In other words, the connection pipe 70 is arranged to extend from below the rim corner portion 13bc, passing below the front rim portion 13b, below the rim corner portion 13bd, below the left rim portion 13d, below the rim corner portion 13ad, and below the rear rim portion 13a in this order, to below the rim corner portion 13ac. Having the connection pipe 70 pass along the washing area floor improves maintainability.

[0060] In the path from the detergent inlet 135 to the detergent tank 10, the connecting pipe 70 is provided with a gentle downward slope from the detergent inlet 135 toward the detergent tank 10. This allows the detergent liquid injected from the detergent inlet 135 to flow more smoothly to the detergent tank 10.

[0061] The connection pipe 70 is, for example, an elastic or flexible hose. For example, a resin hose or a rubber hose is used for the connection pipe 70. The connection pipe 70 is fixed to at least one of the bathtub 100 and the waterproof pan 150 by any fixing means, for example, a fixing plate or a hose band.

[0062] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the bathtub system according to the embodiment. Fig. 4 corresponds to the cross section taken along line AA in Fig. 2 and illustrates a cross section of detergent inlet 135. As shown in Fig. 4, bathtub system 500 has an inlet member 41 that forms detergent inlet 135. Inlet member 41 has a cylindrical member 42 and an elbow member 43.

[0063] The cylindrical member 42 has a cylindrical shape that extends in the vertical direction. A flange portion 42a is provided at the upper end of the cylindrical member 42. A screw groove 42b is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical member 42. The elbow member 43 has a cylindrical portion 44 that extends in the vertical direction, and a cylindrical portion 45 that is connected to the lower end of the cylindrical portion 44 and extends in the left-right direction. A flange 44a and a screw groove 44b are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 44.

[0064] A through hole 13p is provided in the rim 13 of the bathtub 100. The outer diameter of the flange portion 42a of the cylindrical member 42 is larger than the inner diameter of the through hole 13p. The flange portion 42a is placed on the upper surface of the rim corner portion 13bc of the rim 13. The portion of the cylindrical member 42 provided with the thread groove 42b is positioned within the through hole 13p. The portion of the elbow member 43 provided with the thread groove 44b is positioned within the cylindrical member 42. The injection port member 41 is attached to the rim 13 by threading the thread groove 42b into the thread groove 44b. The cylindrical portion 45 of the elbow member 43 is inserted into one end of the connection pipe 70.

[0065] 5 and 6 are cross-sectional views illustrating a part of the bathtub system according to the embodiment. Fig. 5 corresponds to the cross section taken along line BB in Fig. 2, and illustrates a cross section of a portion of the detergent tank 10. Fig. 6 corresponds to the cross section taken along line CC in Fig. 5. 7 and 8 are perspective views illustrating the periphery of the detergent tank of the bathtub system according to the embodiment. 5, the detergent tank 10 has a tank body 51 and an adapter part 52. The tank body 51 is a container that stores detergent liquid. The adapter part 52 is a joint member that connects the connection pipe 70 and the tank body 51. One end of the air vent pipe 60 is connected to the adapter part 52.

[0066] In this example, as shown in FIG. 5 , the adapter 52 includes a lower cylindrical portion 53, an elbow portion 54, and an upper cylindrical portion 55. The lower cylindrical portion 53 is cylindrical and extends vertically, and is attached to the upper end of the tank body 51 by any means, such as screwing. The elbow 54 includes a cylindrical portion 54a and a cylindrical portion 54b. The cylindrical portion 54a is connected to the lower cylindrical portion 53 and extends upward from the upper end of the lower cylindrical portion 53. The cylindrical portion 54b is connected to the cylindrical portion 54a and extends leftward from the upper end of the cylindrical portion 54a. The tip (left end) of the cylindrical portion 54b is inserted into the other end of the connection pipe 70. This allows the detergent liquid injected through the detergent inlet 135 to flow into the tank body 51 through the connection pipe 70, the cylindrical portion 54b, the cylindrical portion 54a, and the lower cylindrical portion 53.

[0067] The upper cylindrical portion 55 is cylindrical and extends upward from the upper end of the lower cylindrical portion 53. The upper cylindrical portion 55 is aligned horizontally with the elbow portion 54. The duct formed by the upper cylindrical portion 55 is separated from the duct formed by the elbow portion 54. The upper end of the upper cylindrical portion 55 is inserted into one end 60p of the air vent pipe 60. As a result, air inside the tank body 51 passes through the lower cylindrical portion 53, the upper cylindrical portion 55, and the air vent pipe 60 and is discharged to the outside.

[0068] The detergent tank 10 is fixed directly or indirectly to at least one of the bathtub 100 and the waterproof pan 150. In this example, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the detergent tank 10 is fixed to the inner surface of the right pan wall 150c of the waterproof pan 150 by a first holding member 71 and a second holding member 72. The first holding member 71 is, for example, a plate-shaped member containing metal, and is fixed to the right pan wall 150c by any fixing means such as screwing. The second holding member 72 is fixed to the first holding member 71 by any fixing means such as screwing, engagement, or fitting. The second holding member 72 includes side plate portions 72a, 72b, and a bottom plate portion 72c. The side plate portions 72a, 72b, and bottom plate portions 72c are each plate-shaped and contain metal. The side plate portion 72b and the bottom plate portion 72c extend upward from both ends of the bottom plate portion 72c in the front-rear direction. The tank body 51 of the detergent tank 10 is placed on the bottom plate portion 72c between the side plate portion 72a and the side plate portion 72b.

[0069] The tank body 51 is installed so as not to shift position relative to the second holding member 72. For example, the position of the tank body 51 is regulated by an upper member 73 provided above the tank body 51. The upper member 73 is, for example, a curved plate containing metal, and is connected to the side plate portions 72a and 72b by any fixing means such as screws.

[0070] 9(a) and 9(b) are schematic diagrams illustrating the air vent piping of the bathtub system according to the embodiment. Fig. 9(a) is a side view of the air vent pipe 60. Fig. 9(b) is a cross-sectional view of the air vent pipe 60 on the plane P shown in Fig. 9(a). 9(a), the air vent pipe 60 is attached to the detergent tank 10 in a loop shape. Specifically, the air vent pipe 60 includes a first portion 61 to a fourth portion 64 when attached to the detergent tank 10.

[0071] The first portion 61 is a portion that includes the uppermost end of the air vent pipe 60. The second portion 62 includes one end 62p (one end 60p of the air vent pipe 60) that is connected to the upper cylindrical portion 55 of the detergent tank 10. The second portion 62 extends upward from the upper cylindrical portion 55. The other end 62q of the second portion 62 is continuous with one end 61p of the first portion 61. One end 63p of the third portion 63 is continuous with the other end 61q of the first portion 61, and the third portion 63 extends downward. The other end 63q of the third portion 63 is continuous with one end 64p of the fourth portion 64. The fourth portion 64 extends in the left-right direction from one end 64p of the fourth portion 64 to the other end 64q of the fourth portion 64.

[0072] The air vent pipe 60 is, for example, an elastic or flexible hose. For example, a resin hose or a rubber hose is used for the air vent pipe 60. The air vent pipe 60 is preferably attached so that it curves smoothly without kinks (sharp corners caused by bending, for example). The upper end (first portion 61) of the air vent pipe 60 may or may not contact the underside of the rim 13 of the bathtub 100. The first portion 61 is positioned, for example, below the raised portion of the rim 13.

[0073] In the radial cross section of the first portion 61 of the air vent pipe 60, the height (vertical position) of the lowest point 60L of the inner circumferential surface 60f of the first portion 61 is higher than the height H135 of the detergent inlet 135. The height H135 of the detergent inlet 135 is the height of the detergent overflow surface at the detergent inlet 135. When the detergent level at the detergent inlet 135 becomes higher than the detergent overflow surface, the detergent liquid overflows from the detergent inlet 135 to the outside of the detergent inlet 135. In this example, the height H135 of the detergent inlet 135 is the height H41 of the upper end of the inlet member 41 (see FIG. 4). The height H135 of the detergent inlet 135 may also be the height H13 (see FIG. 4) of the upper surface of the rim 13 (front rim portion 13b, rim corner portion 13bc, or rim corner portion 13bd) to which the inlet member 41 is attached.

[0074] The radial cross section of the air vent pipe 60 is a cross section in a plane parallel to the radial direction of the air vent pipe 60. The radial direction at a certain point of the air vent pipe 60 corresponds to a direction perpendicular to the direction in which a fluid flows through the air vent pipe 60 when the fluid flows through the air vent pipe 60. For example, the radial direction at a certain point of the air vent pipe 60 is a direction perpendicular to the inner circumferential surface 60f of the certain point. For example, the radial cross section of the first portion 61 is a cross section of the first portion 61 in a plane P. The plane P is, for example, a plane parallel to the up-down direction.

[0075] As described above, in the embodiment, the detergent inlet 135 does not overlap the detergent tank 10 in a top view, which increases the degree of freedom in the placement of the detergent inlet 135 and the detergent tank 10, making it easier to install the bathtub cleaning unit 101. For example, even if there is not enough space to install the detergent inlet 135 on the rim 13 directly above the detergent tank 10, the detergent inlet 135 can be provided in another area of ​​the rim 13. Alternatively, even if there is not enough space to install the detergent tank 10 below the detergent inlet 135, for example, the detergent tank 10 can be installed using another available space. For example, a detergent tank with a large capacity can be installed in a relatively small bathtub.

[0076] In addition, since the detergent tank 10 is connected to the detergent inlet 135 by the connecting pipe 70, even if the detergent inlet 135 does not overlap with the detergent tank 10 when viewed from above, detergent liquid can be supplied from the detergent inlet 135 to the detergent tank 10 via the connecting pipe 70.

[0077] When detergent is supplied from the detergent inlet 135 to the detergent tank 10 via the connecting pipe 70, the connecting pipe 70 may have two functions: to send detergent liquid from the detergent inlet 135 to the detergent tank 10, and to release air from within the detergent tank 10. In other words, when detergent is supplied, air within the detergent tank 10 is discharged from the detergent tank 10 to the outside through the detergent inlet 135 via the connecting pipe 70. If the connecting pipe 70 is the main component for releasing air from the detergent tank 10 to the outside, it may take a long time to supply a certain amount of detergent liquid to the detergent tank 10. For example, when a user injects detergent liquid into the detergent inlet 135, the connecting pipe 70 may be mostly filled with detergent liquid, significantly reducing the escape route for air within the detergent tank 10, resulting in a waiting time for the air within the detergent tank 10 to be released. In such a case, the user must repeatedly inject detergent liquid and wait for the air to escape in order to supply a predetermined amount of detergent liquid to the detergent tank 10, which may significantly increase the time required to complete the injection of detergent liquid.

[0078] In contrast, by providing an air vent pipe 60 that vents air from the detergent tank 10, it becomes possible to inject the detergent from the detergent inlet 135 via the connection pipe 70 without having to vent the air from the detergent tank 10. This allows the detergent to be smoothly poured in even if, for example, the detergent tank 10 and the detergent inlet 135 are installed at a distance from each other. This also reduces the time required to complete the injection of the detergent liquid.

[0079] When the air vent pipe 60 is provided and its position is lower than the position of the detergent inlet 135 (the detergent overflow surface height), if a user injects more detergent into the detergent inlet 135 when the detergent tank 10 is filled with detergent liquid, the detergent liquid may pass through the air vent pipe 60 and overflow from the other end 60q of the air vent pipe before overflowing onto the rim 13 from the detergent inlet 135. If the detergent liquid overflows from the air vent pipe 60, the detergent liquid will not overflow from the detergent inlet 135, making it difficult for the user to visually confirm that the detergent liquid injection is complete. For example, if the detergent liquid overflows from the air vent pipe 60, the detergent liquid level visible from the detergent inlet 135 will drop. In such a case, the user will think that the detergent liquid injection is not complete and will continue to inject more detergent liquid. As a result, the detergent liquid may overflow from the air vent pipe 60, and this may occur repeatedly.

[0080] On the other hand, in the radial cross section of a portion (first portion 61) of the air vent pipe 60, the lowest point 60L of the inner circumferential surface 60f of that portion is higher than the detergent inlet 135, which prevents the detergent liquid from overflowing from the air vent pipe 60. This allows, for example, the user to visually confirm that the detergent tank is full.

[0081] 3, in this example, the bathtub cleaning device 200 is placed on the outside of one of the pair of first sidewalls 12A. In other words, the bathtub cleaning device 200 is provided on the outer periphery of the short side of the bathtub 100, where space is relatively easy to secure. This allows the bathtub cleaning unit to be installed even in small bathtubs, for example.

[0082] 3, in this example, the detergent tank 10 is located on the outside of one of the pair of first sidewalls 12A. In other words, the detergent tank 10 is provided in the outer peripheral area of ​​the short side of the bathtub 100, where it is relatively easy to secure space. The detergent tank 10 is located on the same side of the bathtub 100 as the bathtub cleaning device 200. This allows the bathtub cleaning unit to be installed even in a small bathtub, for example.

[0083] Furthermore, detergent inlet 135 is located on the other side of the pair of first sidewall portions 12A of rim 13. For example, as described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4, detergent inlet 135 is located below at least one of rear rim portion 13a, rim corner portion 13ac, and rim corner portion 13ad. Detergent inlet 135 is located on the opposite side of bathtub 100 from bathtub cleaning device 200. In this way, detergent inlet 135 and detergent tank 10 can be located apart, making it easier to install bathtub cleaning unit 101. For example, even if the detergent inlet 135 cannot be located directly above detergent tank 10 due to the size or shape of the bathtub, providing detergent inlet 135 away from detergent tank 10 makes it possible to utilize the available space on rim 13 of bathtub 100.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 5, the other end 60q of the air vent pipe 60 is disposed inside the waterproof pan 150. That is, the other end 60q of the air vent pipe 60 is located inside the outer periphery of the waterproof pan 150 in a top view. The other end 60q of the air vent pipe 60 is aligned (overlaps) with (is aligned with) the pan bottom 150e of the waterproof pan 150 in the up-down direction. By disposing the other end 60q of the air vent pipe 60 inside the waterproof pan 150, even if detergent liquid leaks from the other end 60q of the air vent pipe 60, the detergent liquid will fall into the waterproof pan 150. This makes it possible, for example, to prevent the detergent liquid from leaking to the outside.

[0085] For example, as shown in FIG. 5 or 8, the waterproof pan 150 has an application area R that is coated with paint that is more durable against detergent solution than the material of the waterproof pan 150. The other end 60q of the air vent pipe 60 is disposed above the application area R. In other words, the other end 60q of the air vent pipe 60 is aligned (overlaps) with the application area R in the up-down direction. Even if a small amount of detergent solution leaks from the other end 60q of the air vent pipe 60, the detergent solution will fall into the application area R, which is relatively durable. This makes it possible to prevent deterioration of the waterproof pan 150 due to the detergent solution.

[0086] For example, the application area R may be a recess in the pan bottom 150e. In this case, the detergent leaking from the other end 60q of the air vent pipe 60 can be collected in the recess (application area R).

[0087] High durability means that there is little change (deterioration) over time due to the detergent solution when the detergent solution is in contact with the surface. The paint applied to the application area R is, for example, a primer. The material of the waterproof pan 150 includes, for example, polypropylene. The detergent solution includes, for example, a surfactant or a foam adjuster.

[0088] For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the bathtub cleaning unit 101 has a restricting member 74 that restricts the direction in which a portion of the air vent pipe 60 extends. The restricting member 74 restricts the relative positioning of the portion of the air vent pipe 60 and one end 60p of the air vent pipe 60. The portion of the air vent pipe 60 is restricted by the restricting member 74 so that it extends upward from the one end 60p. For example, the restricting member 74 holds a portion of the air vent pipe 60 so that a portion of the air vent pipe 60 (for example, the second portion 62 shown in FIG. 9(a)) extends upward. Note that extending upward includes extending diagonally upward. Furthermore, extending downward includes extending diagonally downward.

[0089] More specifically, in this example, the restricting member 74 includes a metal and has a plate shape that is curved and extends in the vertical direction. A lower end 74a of the restricting member 74 is fixed to the side plate portion 72b of the second holding member 72 by any fixing means such as screws. An upper end 74b of the restricting member 74 is fixed to a part of the second portion 62 of the air vent pipe 60 by any fixing means such as a hose band 77a.

[0090] By extending a portion of the air vent pipe 60 upward using the regulating member 74, the air vent pipe 60 can be installed so that the lowest point 60L of the inner surface 60f of the first portion 61 is more reliably higher than the detergent injection port 135.

[0091] The shape of the restricting member 74 is not limited to the above, and may be any shape that restricts a portion of the air vent pipe 60 from extending upward from one end 60p of the air vent pipe 60. For example, the restricting member 74 may be cylindrical, through which a portion of the air vent pipe 60 is inserted.

[0092] 7, the second portion 62 of the air vent pipe 60 is connected to the upper cylindrical portion 55 by any fixing means such as a hose band 77b. The fourth portion 64 of the air vent pipe 60 is fixed to the side plate portion 72b of the second holding member 72 by any fixing means such as hose bands 77c and 77d. This allows the air vent pipe 60 to be installed so that the lowest point 60L of the inner circumferential surface 60f of the first portion 61 of the air vent pipe 60 is more reliably higher than the detergent injection port 135. Furthermore, the other end 60q of the air vent pipe 60 can be more reliably positioned inside the waterproof pan 150.

[0093] Also, the gap between the restricting member 74 and the detergent tank 10 may be filled with a box-shaped sheet. Specifically, the sheet may be made of, for example, polypropylene. This allows the detergent liquid to fall (for example, run down) through the box-shaped sheet into the application area R located below the detergent tank 10, even if a small amount of detergent liquid leaks from the detergent tank 10. This makes it possible to prevent the waterproof pan 150 from being deteriorated by the detergent liquid.

[0094] The above describes the embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Design modifications made by a person skilled in the art to the above-described embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they incorporate the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, arrangement, and installation form of each element of the bathtub cleaning unit mounting structure, bathtub system, etc. are not limited to those illustrated and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, the elements of each of the above-described embodiments can be combined to the extent technically possible, and such combinations are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 10 detergent tank, 10F water level detection unit, 11 bottom, 12 side wall, 12A first side wall, 12B second side wall, 12a rear wall, 12b front wall, 12c right wall, 12d left wall, 13 rim, 13a rear rim, 13ac, 13ad rim corner, 13b front rim, 13bc, 13bd rim corner, 13c right rim, 13d left rim, 13p through hole, 15 detergent flow path, 16 on / off valve, 18 pump, 20 detergent mixing unit, 25 water supply flow path, 26 on / off valve, 28 control unit, 30 cleaning nozzle, 31 spray outlet, 35 cleaning flow path, 40 pump, 41 inlet member, 42 Cylindrical member, 42a Flange portion, 42b Thread groove, 43 Elbow member, 44 Cylindrical portion, 44a Flange, 44b Thread groove, 45 Cylindrical portion, 50 Drive portion, 51 Tank body, 52 Adapter portion, 53 Lower cylindrical portion, 54 Elbow portion, 54a Cylindrical portion, 54b Cylindrical portion, 55 Upper cylindrical portion, 60 Air vent piping, 60L Lowest point, 60f Inner surface, 60p One end, 60q Other end, 61 First portion, 61p One end, 61q Other end, 62 Second portion, 62p One end, 62q Other end, 63 Third portion, 63p One end, 63q Other end, 64 Fourth portion, 64p One end, 64q other end, 70 connecting pipe, 71 first holding member, 72 second holding member, 72a, 72b side plate portion, 72c bottom plate portion, 73 upper member, 74 restricting member, 74a lower end portion, 74b upper end portion, 77a, 77b, 77c, 77d hose band, 100 bathtub, 101 bathtub cleaning unit, 111 inner bottom surface, 112 inner wall side surface, 115 drain outlet, 131-133 first to third raised portions, 134 shelf-like portion, 135 detergent inlet, 150 waterproof pan, 150a rear pan wall portion, 150b front pan wall portion, 150c right pan wall portion, 150d left pan wall portion, 150e pan bottom portion, 200 Bathtub cleaning device, 500 bathtub system, R application area, S mounting structure, WS water supply source

Claims

1. A mounting structure for a bathtub cleaning unit that cleans a bathtub having a side wall, The bathtub cleaning unit includes: A bathtub cleaning device that has a function of spraying detergent liquid onto a cleaning nozzle installed in the bathtub and is arranged outside the side wall; a detergent tank connected to the bathtub cleaning device for storing detergent liquid, the detergent tank being connected to the detergent inlet by a connecting pipe; an air vent pipe having one end connected to the detergent tank and configured to vent air from the detergent tank; Including, The detergent inlet does not overlap with the detergent tank in a top view, An installation structure characterized in that, in a radial cross section of the first portion of the air vent pipe, the lowest point of the inner surface of the first portion is higher than the detergent injection port.

2. The side walls have a pair of first side wall portions extending in a short-side direction in a top view and a pair of second side wall portions extending in a long-side direction in a top view, The installation structure according to claim 1 , wherein the bathtub cleaning device is disposed outside one of the pair of first side wall portions.

3. 3. The mounting structure according to claim 2, wherein the detergent tank is disposed outside the one of the pair of first side walls.

4. 4. The mounting structure according to claim 2, wherein the detergent inlet is located on the other side of the pair of first side walls of a rim provided at the upper end of the side wall of the bathtub.

5. A waterproof pan is provided on the periphery of the bathtub, The mounting structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the other end of the air vent pipe is arranged inside the waterproof pan.

6. The waterproof pan has a coating area coated with paint that is more durable against detergent solution than the material of the waterproof pan, The mounting structure according to claim 5 , wherein the other end of the air vent pipe is disposed above the application area.

7. 7. The mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein a portion of the air vent pipe is restricted by a restricting member so as to extend upward from the one end.

8. a bathtub having a sidewall; a bathtub cleaning unit for cleaning the bathtub; Equipped with The bathtub cleaning unit includes: a bathtub cleaning device disposed outside the side wall and having a function of spraying detergent liquid onto a cleaning nozzle installed in the bathtub; a detergent tank connected to the bathtub cleaning device for storing detergent liquid, the detergent tank being connected to the detergent inlet by a connecting pipe; an air vent pipe having one end connected to the detergent tank and configured to vent air from the detergent tank; Including, The detergent inlet does not overlap with the detergent tank in a top view, A bathtub system characterized in that, in a radial cross section of the first portion of the air vent pipe, the lowest point of the inner surface of the first portion is higher than the detergent inlet.

Images