Faucet device

Abstract

To prevent water cutoff against an intention of a user in a water tap device.SOLUTION: A water tap device according to an embodiment comprises: a spout body including a conductive part; a water discharge part disposed in the spout body and discharging cleaning water; a first sensor that detects a detection target within a predetermined detection range; a second sensor of electrostatic type that detects the detection target with the conductive part as an electrode; and a control device that can execute a first water discharge mode and a second water discharge mode, the first mode for switching between water discharge and cutoff according to a detection result of the first sensor and the second mode for switching between water discharge and cutoff according to a detection result of the second sensor. The control device executes water cutoff in the second water discharge mode according to a detection result of the second sensor, when the first sensor does not detect the detection target in a state in which water is discharged by the second water discharge mode. The control device continues water discharge by the second water discharge mode regardless of a detection result of the second sensor, when the first sensor detects the detection target in a state in which water is discharged by the second water discharge mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a faucet device that discharges and stops tap water according to the detection result of a detection target by a sensor has been known (for example, see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the above-described faucet device, when a human body contacts water in the water discharge state, the capacitance changes (increases) due to the detection electrode of the electrostatic sensor incorporated in the faucet device, and the capacitance change (decrease) when the human body separates from the water is used. It is possible to switch from the water discharge state to the water stop state based on the difference.

[0005] On the other hand, as an electrostatic sensor incorporated in a faucet device, when a conductive spout main body portion is used as a detection electrode, and water discharge is continued both when a human body is wetted with water and when it is not wetted in the water discharge state, and a user approaches the spout main body portion with a hand to stop the water. When configuring a faucet device, in the water discharge state, when the point where water gets on the hand is close to the water discharge port of the spout main body portion, when the hand contacts the water, the capacitance changes greatly (increases), so it is erroneously detected that the hand has been brought close to the spout main body portion to stop the water. Even though the user desires the continuation of water discharge, there is a possibility that the water discharge state may be switched to the water stop state when wet.

[0006] ​One embodiment aims to provide a faucet device that suppresses water shutoff against the user's intention. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A faucet device according to one embodiment includes a spout body having a conductive part, a water discharge part provided on the spout body for discharging cleaning water, a first sensor for detecting an object within a predetermined detection range, an electrostatic second sensor for detecting an object using the conductive part as an electrode, and a control device capable of executing a first water discharge mode that stops water discharge according to the detection result of the first sensor, and a second water discharge mode that stops water discharge according to the detection result of the second sensor. When water discharge is being performed in the second water discharge mode, if the first sensor does not detect an object, the control device stops water discharge in the second water discharge mode according to the detection result of the second sensor. When water discharge is being performed in the second water discharge mode, if the first sensor detects an object, the control device continues water discharge in the second water discharge mode regardless of the detection result of the second sensor.

[0008] As a result, the faucet device can continue dispensing water in the second water discharge mode even if the second sensor detects an object while the first sensor is dispensing water in the second water discharge mode.

[0009] For example, when a user is washing using the second water discharge mode and the first sensor detects the target, the faucet device can prevent the second sensor from mistakenly detecting the increase in capacitance caused by the washing water hitting the user's hand as the user bringing their hand close to the spout body to stop the water flow, and thus stopping the water flow. In other words, the faucet device can prevent water from being stopped against the user's intention.

[0010] Furthermore, the first sensor can detect targets within a first predetermined range and a second predetermined range that is narrower than the first predetermined range. The control device stops water discharge in the first discharge mode according to the detection result of the target within the first predetermined range. When water is being discharged in the second discharge mode, if the first sensor does not detect a target within the second predetermined range, the control device stops water discharge in the second discharge mode according to the detection result of the second sensor. When water is being discharged in the second discharge mode, if the first sensor detects a target within the second predetermined range, the control device continues water discharge in the second discharge mode regardless of the detection result of the second sensor.

[0011] As a result, the faucet device can prevent the shutoff of the second water discharge mode from being suppressed more than necessary, while suppressing the shutoff of the second water discharge mode against the user's intention when the user is washing using the second water discharge mode.

[0012] The faucet device can determine whether the detection of an object by the second sensor is due to a false detection caused by the user's hand coming into contact with the cleaning water, or due to the user's water shut-off operation. Therefore, the faucet device can suppress false detections of objects by the second sensor caused by the user's hand coming into contact with the cleaning water, while also being able to shut off the cleaning water in response to the user's water shut-off operation, even when an object is detected by the first sensor.

[0013] Furthermore, the first sensor is a photoelectric sensor and has a transparent window on the underside of the spout body. The transparent window is located on the tip side of the spout body, closer to the water outlet.

[0014] As a result, the faucet device can accurately detect the object to be detected, which is extended from the tip of the spout body downwards, using the first sensor. Therefore, when water is being dispensed in the second water discharge mode, the faucet device can accurately determine the presence or absence of the object to be detected using the first sensor. Consequently, when the user is washing in the second water discharge mode, the faucet device can suppress false detection of the object by the second sensor and prevent water shutoff against the user's intention.

[0015] Furthermore, the first sensor is a photoelectric sensor and has a transparent window on the lower surface of the spout body. The transparent window is located on the base end side of the spout body, closer to the water outlet.

[0016] As a result, when the faucet is dispensing water in the second water discharge mode, for example, if the user brings their hand close to the tip of the spout body to stop the water flow, the faucet can suppress the detection of the hand by the first sensor and execute a water stop in the second water discharge mode. In other words, the faucet can execute a water stop in the second water discharge mode according to the user's intention. In addition, the distance between the water discharge part and the tip of the spout body can be shortened, improving the design of the faucet. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to one embodiment, it is possible to suppress water shutoff that is contrary to the user's intention. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a faucet device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a diagram showing a functional block diagram centered on the control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating the discharge shutoff process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating the water discharge stoppage process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a functional block diagram centered on the control device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the water discharge stop control according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the water discharge stop control according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a functional block diagram centered on the control device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a functional block diagram centered on the control device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the water discharge stop control according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the water discharge stop control according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram for explaining the faucet device according to the modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0019] 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 described below. Also, the drawings are schematic, and it should be noted that the dimensional relationships between elements, the ratios of the elements, etc. may be different from reality. There may also be parts where the dimensional relationships and ratios between the drawings are different from each other. Hereinafter, the vertical direction will be defined and described as downward.

[0020] (First Embodiment) The faucet device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining the faucet device 1 according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 1, the spout main body portion 2 of the faucet device 1 is shown in cross section.

[0021] The faucet device 1 is attached to a base 100, such as a washbasin, and when it detects an object to be detected, it dispenses and stops the water flow. In other words, the faucet device 1 is an automatic faucet that dispenses and stops the water flow automatically.

[0022] The detection targets include the human body. The detection targets include the user's hands. The detection targets include objects to be cleaned. Objects to be cleaned include, for example, toothbrushes and cups.

[0023] The washing water may include raw water. The washing water may also include modified water. Raw water is, for example, tap water. Modified water is disinfectant water, purified water, or alkaline ionized water. Disinfectant water and alkaline ionized water are produced, for example, by electrolyzing tap water. Purified water is produced, for example, by passing tap water through a filter. Below, we will describe an example in which tap water is used as raw water and disinfectant water is used as modified water.

[0024] The faucet device 1 comprises a spout body 2 (second sensor 6), a first water passage section 3, a second water passage section 4, a first sensor 5, a control device 7, and a water discharge section 10.

[0025] The spout body 2 has a conductive part. Specifically, the spout body 2 is made of a conductive material. The spout body 2 is made of metal. The spout body 2 may be made of conductive carbon or conductive plastic. The spout body 2 may be made of a part of a conductive material. The spout body 2 may also include a part of a non-conductive material. The water outlet 10 comprises a first water outlet 11 and a second water outlet 12.

[0026] The spout body 2 is attached to a base 100, such as a washbasin. The spout body 2 is, for example, roughly L-shaped. The spout body 2 may also be roughly J-shaped or straight.

[0027] The first spout 11 is located at the tip of the spout body 2. The first spout 11 discharges tap water supplied via the first water passage 3. The first spout 11 is positioned to discharge tap water downward or diagonally downward.

[0028] The second outlet 12 is provided, for example, on the base 100 side of the first outlet 11. The second outlet 12 may also be provided on the tip side of the spout body 2, or it may be provided in close proximity to the first outlet 11. The second outlet 12 discharges disinfectant water supplied via the second water passage 4. The second outlet 12 is provided to discharge disinfectant water diagonally downward or downward.

[0029] The first spout 11 and the second spout 12 are made of, for example, metal. The first spout 11 and the second spout 12 are not electrically connected to the spout body 2. For example, a gap is provided between the first spout 11 and the second spout 12 and the spout body 2. The gap is provided considering the size and design of the faucet device 1. The first spout 11 and the second spout 12 may be made of an insulating material such as resin or plastic.

[0030] The first water supply section 3 includes a first supply pipe 20 and a first valve 21. One end of the first supply pipe 20 is connected to a water supply source. The other end of the first supply pipe 20 is connected to the first outlet 11. A portion of the first supply pipe 20 is housed in the spout body section 2.

[0031] The first valve 21 is installed in the first supply pipe 20. The first valve 21 is an electromagnetic valve and includes an actuator. The actuator includes a motor or the like. The first valve 21 is opened and closed by the actuator. The first valve 21 is opened and closed by the actuator operating based on a signal transmitted from the control device 7. When the first valve 21 is open, tap water is discharged from the first outlet 11. When the first valve 21 is closed, the tap water flow is stopped.

[0032] The second water supply section 4 includes a second supply pipe 25 and a second valve 26. One end of the second supply pipe 25 is connected to a source of disinfectant water. The other end of the second supply pipe 25 is connected to the second outlet 12. A portion of the second supply pipe 25 is housed in the spout body 2.

[0033] The second valve 26 is provided in the second supply pipe 25. The second valve 26 is an electromagnetic valve and includes an actuator. The second valve 26 is opened and closed by the actuator. The second valve 26 is opened and closed by the actuator operating based on a signal transmitted from the control device 7. When the second valve 26 is open, disinfectant water is discharged from the second discharge port 12. When the second valve 26 is closed, the flow of disinfectant water is stopped.

[0034] The first sensor 5 detects the presence or absence of a detection target within a predetermined detection range near the first water outlet. The predetermined detection range is a pre-set range that includes the area below the first water outlet 11.

[0035] The first sensor 5 is provided, for example, on the tip side of the spout body 2 beyond the first spout 11. The first sensor 5 is provided in the vicinity of the first spout 11. The first sensor 5 is provided adjacent to the first spout 11. The first sensor 5 is, for example, a photoelectric sensor. For example, the first sensor 5 detects the presence or absence of a detection object by emitting detection light and receiving the reflected light of the detection light reflected from the detection object. The light-transmitting window 5a in the first sensor 5 is provided on the tip side of the spout body 2 beyond the first spout 11. The light-transmitting window 5a is provided, for example, on the lower surface of the spout body 2.

[0036] The second sensor 6 detects the presence or absence of an object within a wider detection range than the first sensor 5. The second sensor 6 is an electrostatic sensor that uses the spout body 2 as its detection electrode. The spout body 2 (second sensor 6) is connected to the control device 7 via the connection part 6a.

[0037] By minimizing the length of the connection section 6a that transmits the detection signal obtained by the spout body 2 (second sensor 6) from detecting an object to the control device 7, noise entering from the connection section 6a (e.g., harness) can be suppressed, thereby reducing the impact on the detection signal.

[0038] When an object to be detected approaches the spout body 2 (second sensor 6), its capacitance changes. The spout body 2 (second sensor 6) detects the presence or absence of the object to be detected based on the amount of change in capacitance. For example, the capacitance increases as an object to be detected approaches the spout body 2 (second sensor 6). When the amount of change in capacitance exceeds a preset threshold, it is determined that the object to be detected has approached the spout body 2 (second sensor 6), and the object to be detected is detected.

[0039] Since the second sensor 6 uses the spout body 2 as an electrode, it has a detection range that extends around the spout body 2 (second sensor 6), including above the spout body 2 (second sensor 6) and to the sides of the spout body 2 (second sensor 6).

[0040] The control device 7 is, for example, a computer and comprises a control unit 7a and a storage unit 7b.

[0041] The memory unit 7b stores programs that control various processes performed in the faucet device 1. The memory unit 7b is implemented by a storage device such as a semiconductor memory element, such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory.

[0042] The control unit 7a controls the operation of the faucet device 1 by reading and executing a program stored in the storage unit 7b. The program may be one that was originally recorded on a computer-readable storage medium and installed from that medium into the storage unit 7b of the control device 7. Examples of computer-readable storage mediums include hard disks and memory cards.

[0043] The control device 7 is capable of executing a first water discharge mode and a second water discharge mode.

[0044] The first water discharge mode is a mode in which the discharge and shut-off of tap water from the first water outlet 11 are switched according to the detection result of the first sensor 5.

[0045] The control device 7 energizes the first valve 21 to open it when the first sensor 5 detects an object and disinfectant water is not being dispensed. For example, the control device 7 generates a signal to open the first valve 21 and transmits the generated signal to the first valve 21. As a result, the actuator opens the first valve 21 and tap water is dispensed from the first outlet 11.

[0046] If tap water is being dispensed and the first sensor 5 does not detect an object, the control device 7 stops the power supply to close the first valve 21. For example, the control device 7 generates a signal to close the first valve 21 and transmits the generated signal to the first valve 21. As a result, the actuator closes the first valve 21 and stops the flow of tap water.

[0047] The second water discharge mode is a mode in which the discharge of disinfectant water from the second water outlet 12 and the water stop are switched according to the detection result of the second sensor 6.

[0048] The control device 7, if the first sensor 5 has not detected the target object, the second sensor 6 has detected the target object, and tap water and disinfectant water are not being dispensed, will supply power to open the second valve 26. For example, the control device 7 generates a signal to open the second valve 26 and transmits the generated signal to the second valve 26. As a result, the actuator opens the second valve 26, and disinfectant water is dispensed from the second outlet 12.

[0049] If disinfectant water is being discharged and the first sensor 5 has not detected the target object, the control device 7 will stop the discharge of disinfectant water according to the detection result of the second sensor 6. Specifically, if disinfectant water is being discharged, the first sensor 5 has not detected the target object, and the detection result of the second sensor 6 changes from not detected to detected, the control device 7 will stop the power supply in order to close the second valve 26. For example, the control device 7 will generate a signal to close the second valve 26 and transmit the generated signal to the second valve 26. As a result, the actuator will close the second valve 26 and stop the discharge of disinfectant water.

[0050] If disinfectant water is being dispensed and the first sensor 5 has detected an object, the control device 7 will continue to dispense disinfectant water regardless of the detection result of the second sensor 6. In other words, if disinfectant water is being dispensed and the first sensor 5 has detected an object, the second dispensing mode will continue to dispense disinfectant water even if the detection result of the second sensor 6 changes from not detected to detected.

[0051] The switching between stopping the discharge of tap water in the first mode and stopping the discharge of disinfectant water in the second discharge mode according to the first embodiment is achieved by the configuration shown in Figure 2. Figure 2 is a functional block diagram centered on the control device 7 according to the first embodiment.

[0052] The first sensor 5 outputs a signal "1" when it detects an object to be detected. The first sensor 5 outputs a signal "0" when it does not detect an object to be detected. The control device 7 receives the output signal from the first sensor 5 as the result of the first sensor 5 detecting an object to be detected.

[0053] The second sensor 6 outputs a signal of "1" when it detects an object to be detected. The second sensor 6 outputs a signal of "0" when it does not detect an object to be detected. An AND circuit 30 is provided between the second sensor 6 and the control device 7, to which the output signal of the second sensor 6 and the output signal of the first sensor 5 are input.

[0054] A NOT circuit 31 is provided between the AND circuit 30 and the first sensor 5, and the output signal of the first sensor 5 is inverted before being input to the AND circuit 30. Therefore, when the output signal of the first sensor 5 is "1", that is, when the first sensor 5 detects the object to be detected, the "0" signal inverted by the NOT circuit 31 is input to the AND circuit 30. When the output signal of the first sensor 5 is "0", that is, when the first sensor 5 does not detect the object to be detected, the "1" signal inverted by the NOT circuit 31 is input to the AND circuit 30.

[0055] The control device 7 receives the signal output from the AND circuit 30 as the detection result from the second sensor 6.

[0056] The input signal that is input to the control device 7 as a result of detection by the second sensor 6 is "0" if the output signal of the second sensor 6 is "0".

[0057] The input signal input to the control device 7 as a result of detection by the second sensor 6 is "0" if the output signal of the first sensor 5 is "1", even if the output signal of the second sensor 6 is "1". In other words, even if the object to be detected is detected by the second sensor 6, if the object to be detected is detected by the first sensor 5, the input signal input to the control device 7 as a result of detection by the second sensor 6 is "0". Therefore, the control device 7 processes the detection result of the object detected by the second sensor 6 as "not detected".

[0058] The input signal that is input to the control device 7 as a result of detection by the second sensor 6 is "1" when the output signal of the second sensor 6 is "1" and the output signal of the first sensor 5 is "0". Therefore, the control device 7 processes the detection result of the target detected by the second sensor 6 as "detected".

[0059] Next, the discharge shut-off treatment according to the first embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating the discharge shut-off treatment according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating the discharge shut-off treatment according to the first embodiment.

[0060] The control device 7 acquires the detection result of the object detected by the first sensor 5 (S100). Specifically, the output signal of the first sensor 5 is input to the control device 7.

[0061] The control device 7 acquires the detection result of the object detected by the second sensor 6 (S101). Specifically, the signal output from the AND circuit 30 is input to the control device 7.

[0062] The control device 7 determines whether or not tap water is being dispensed (S102). That is, the control device 7 determines whether or not tap water is being dispensed from the first water outlet 11.

[0063] If the tap water is not flowing but is stopped (S102: No), the control device 7 determines whether or not the disinfectant water is flowing (S103). That is, the control device 7 determines whether or not the disinfectant water is being discharged from the second outlet 12.

[0064] If the disinfectant water is not being dispensed but is stopped (S103: No), that is, if neither tap water nor disinfectant water is being dispensed, the control device 7 determines whether or not the detection target has been detected by the first sensor 5 (S104). Specifically, the control device 7 determines whether or not the signal input from the first sensor 5 is "1". If the signal input from the first sensor 5 is "1", the control device 7 determines that the detection target has been detected by the first sensor 5. If the signal input from the first sensor 5 is "0", the control device 7 determines that the detection target has not been detected by the first sensor 5.

[0065] If the first sensor 5 detects an object (S104: Yes), the control device 7 starts dispensing tap water (S105). Specifically, the control device 7 opens the first valve 21 and starts dispensing tap water from the first outlet 11.

[0066] If the first sensor 5 does not detect the target object (S104: No), the control device 7 determines whether the detection result from the second sensor 6 has changed from "not detected" to "detected" (S106). Specifically, the control device 7 determines whether the signal input from the AND circuit 30 has changed from "0" to "1". If the signal input from the AND circuit 30 has changed from "0" to "1", the control device 7 determines that the detection result from the second sensor 6 has changed from "not detected" to "detected".

[0067] If the detection result from the second sensor 6 changes from "not detected" to "detected" (S106: Yes), the control device 7 starts discharging disinfectant water (S107). Specifically, the control device 7 opens the second valve 26 and starts discharging disinfectant water from the second outlet 12.

[0068] If the detection result from the second sensor 6 is "not detected" (S106: No), the control device 7 terminates the current process.

[0069] If tap water is being dispensed (S102: Yes), the control device 7 determines whether or not the detection target has been detected by the first sensor 5 (S108). Specifically, the control device 7 determines whether or not the signal input from the first sensor 5 is "1".

[0070] If the first sensor 5 detects the target object (S108: Yes), the control device 7 terminates the current process. In other words, the control device 7 continues to dispense tap water.

[0071] If the first sensor 5 does not detect the target object (S108: No), the control device 7 stops the discharge of tap water (S109). In other words, the control device 7 stops the tap water. Specifically, the control device 7 closes the first valve 21 to stop the tap water.

[0072] If the disinfectant water is being dispensed (S103: Yes), the control device 7 determines whether the detection result from the second sensor 6 has changed from "not detected" to "detected" (S110).

[0073] If the detection result from the second sensor 6 changes from "not detected" to "detected" (S110: Yes), the control device 7 stops discharging the disinfectant water (S111). In other words, the control device 7 stops the flow of disinfectant water. Specifically, the control device 7 closes the second valve 26 to stop the flow of disinfectant water.

[0074] If the detection result from the second sensor 6 is "not detected" (S110: No), the control device 7 continues to dispense disinfectant water. Even if the second sensor 6 detects an object and the signal output from the second sensor 6 changes from "0" to "1", if the object is detected by the first sensor 5, the signal input from the AND circuit 30 is "0", and the detection result from the second sensor 6 is "not detected". Therefore, the control device 7 continues to dispense disinfectant water.

[0075] In the faucet device 1, for example, when disinfectant water is dispensed in the second water discharge mode, the capacitance changes significantly (increases) when the disinfectant water comes into contact with the user's hand, due to the water flow strongly coupling with GND. This change (increase) in capacitance occurs through the following mechanism: The human body, which is the user of the faucet device 1, is a conductor and is electrically connected to GND. The disinfectant water dispensed from the faucet device 1 is also a conductor, and the disinfectant water flows through the second supply pipe 25.

[0076] The second supply pipe 25 is housed in the spout body 2, and is positioned close to the spout body 2. Therefore, the distance between the second supply pipe 25 and the spout body 2 is short, and the disinfectant water in the second supply pipe 25 is electrostatically coupled to the spout body 2.

[0077] When disinfectant water is dispensed and comes into contact with the user's hand, conductivity is established between GND, the user, and the disinfectant water, and electrostatic coupling occurs between the disinfectant water and the spout body 2. As a result, an electrical circuit is formed through the path of GND, the user, the disinfectant water, and the spout body 2. Since the spout body 2 is the detection electrode of the second sensor 6, the capacitance detected by the second sensor 6 increases when the disinfectant water comes into contact with the user's hand and the electrical circuit is formed.

[0078] In a comparative example where the first embodiment is not used, if the disinfectant water comes into contact with the user's hand, the capacitance changes significantly, and if the amount of change in capacitance exceeds a threshold, the second sensor may mistakenly detect that the hand has been brought close to the spout body to stop the water flow. As a result, even if the user wants the water to flow, the faucet may stop the water flow.

[0079] The faucet device 1 comprises a spout body 2, a water outlet 10, a first sensor 5, a second sensor 6, and a control device 7. The spout body 2 has a conductive part. The water outlet 10 is provided on the spout body 2 and discharges cleaning water. The first sensor 5 detects objects within a predetermined detection range. The second sensor 6 is an electrostatic sensor that detects objects using a conductive part as an electrode. The control device 7 can execute a first water discharge mode in which it stops water discharge according to the detection result of the first sensor 5, and a second water discharge mode in which it stops water discharge according to the detection result of the second sensor 6. When water discharge is being performed in the second water discharge mode, if the first sensor 5 has not detected an object, the control device 7 stops the water discharge in the second water discharge mode according to the detection result of the second sensor 6. When water is being discharged in the second discharge mode, if the first sensor 5 detects an object, the control device 7 continues to discharge water in the second discharge mode regardless of the detection result of the second sensor 6.

[0080] As a result, the faucet device 1 can continue dispensing water in the second water discharge mode even if the first sensor 5 detects an object, or if the second sensor 6 also detects an object. For example, if the user is washing in the second water discharge mode and the first sensor 5 detects an object, the faucet device 1 can prevent water shutoff caused by false detection by the second sensor 6. In other words, the faucet device 1 can prevent water shutoff against the user's intention.

[0081] Furthermore, the first sensor 5 is a photoelectric sensor and has a transparent window 5a on the lower surface of the spout body 2. The transparent window 5a is located on the tip side of the spout body 2, closer to the water outlet 10.

[0082] As a result, the faucet device 1 can accurately detect the object to be detected, which is extended downward from the tip of the spout body 2, using the first sensor 5. Therefore, when water is being dispensed in the second water discharge mode, the faucet device 1 can accurately determine the presence or absence of the object to be detected using the first sensor 5. Consequently, when the user is washing in the second water discharge mode, the faucet device 1 can suppress false detection of the object by the second sensor 6 and prevent water shutoff against the user's intention.

[0083] (Second Embodiment) Next, the faucet device 1 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 5. Here, the explanation will focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and the same configuration and processing as the first embodiment will be omitted. Figure 5 is a functional block diagram centered on the control device 7 according to the second embodiment.

[0084] In the second embodiment, the AND circuit 30 and NOT circuit 31 in the first embodiment are not provided. That is, the output signal of the second sensor 6 is directly input to the control device 7. When the first sensor 5 detects an object, the control device 7 processes the detection result of the object detected by the second sensor 6 as "not detected," even if the second sensor 6 detects an object and the output signal of the second sensor 6 is "1."

[0085] Next, the discharge shut-off treatment according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 6 and 7. Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating the discharge shut-off treatment according to the second embodiment. Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the discharge shut-off treatment according to the second embodiment.

[0086] The control device 7 acquires the detection result of the object to be detected by the first sensor 5 (S200) and the detection result of the object to be detected by the second sensor 6 (S201). In step S201, the output signal of the second sensor 6 is input to the control device 7.

[0087] The control device 7 determines whether or not the object to be detected has been detected by the first sensor 5 (S202). If the object to be detected has been detected by the first sensor 5 (S202: Yes), the control device 7 sets the detection result of the object to be detected by the second sensor 6 to "not detected" (S203). In other words, even if the output signal of the second sensor 6 is "1", the control device 7 sets the detection result of the second sensor 6 to "not detected".

[0088] If the first sensor 5 does not detect the object to be detected (S202: No), the control device 7 skips the process in step S203.

[0089] The processing in steps S204 to S207 is the same as the processing in steps S102 to S105 of the first embodiment.

[0090] If the object to be detected is not detected by the first sensor 5 (S206: No), the control device 7 determines whether the detection result by the second sensor 6 has changed from "not detected" to "detected" (S208). The control device 7 determines whether the output signal of the second sensor 6 has changed from "0" to "1". If the output signal of the second sensor 6 has changed from "0" to "1", the control device 7 determines that the detection result by the second sensor 6 has changed from "not detected" to "detected".

[0091] The processing in steps S209 to S211 is the same as the processing in steps S107 to S109 of the first embodiment.

[0092] If the disinfectant water is being dispensed (S205: Yes), the control device 7 determines whether the detection result from the second sensor 6 has changed from "not detected" to "detected" (S212). In step S203, if the control device 7 determined that the detection result of the target detected by the second sensor 6 was "not detected", it applies the processing from step S203 to determine whether the detection result from the second sensor 6 has changed from "not detected" to "detected". In other words, if the control device 7 determined that the detection result of the target detected by the second sensor 6 was "not detected" in step S203, it determines in step S212 that the detection result from the second sensor 6 is "not detected".

[0093] If the detection result from the second sensor 6 changes from "not detected" to "detected" (S212: Yes), the control device 7 stops dispensing disinfectant water (S213). If the detection result from the second sensor 6 is "not detected" (S212: No), the control device 7 continues to dispensing disinfectant water. Even if the second sensor 6 detects an object and the output signal of the second sensor 6 changes from "0" to "1", if the object has already been detected by the first sensor 5, the detection result from the second sensor 6 is "not detected". Therefore, the control device 7 continues to dispensing disinfectant water.

[0094] Similar to the first embodiment, the faucet device 1 can suppress unintended water shutoff caused by the second sensor 6 falsely detecting an object when the user is washing in the second water discharge mode and the object to be detected is detected by the first sensor 5.

[0095] Furthermore, the faucet device 1 can suppress the stopping of disinfectant water in the second water discharge mode against the user's intention, without using an AND circuit 30 (see Figure 2) or the like.

[0096] (Third embodiment) Next, the faucet device 1 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 8. Figure 8 is a functional block diagram centered on the control device 7 according to the third embodiment. Here, we will mainly describe the parts that differ from the first embodiment, and will omit the explanation of the same configuration and processes as in the first embodiment.

[0097] The first sensor 5 can detect the presence or absence of a detection target within a first predetermined range and a second predetermined range near the first water outlet 11. The first predetermined range and the second predetermined range are pre-set ranges. The second predetermined range is narrower than the first predetermined range. The second predetermined range is a range closer to the first water outlet 11 than the first predetermined range.

[0098] False detection by the second sensor 6, which occurs when the user's hand comes into contact with the washing water (tap water or disinfectant water), is more likely to occur when the distance between the user's hand and the spout 10 is short. For example, it occurs when the distance between the user's hand and the spout 10 is shorter than that of typical handwashing. Washing water is a conductor but has a resistive component. The resistance value of the washing water when it comes into contact with the user's hand is determined by the distance from the spout 10 to the user's hand, that is, the distance between the user's hand and the spout 10. The resistance value of the washing water when it comes into contact with the user's hand decreases as the distance from the spout 10 to the user's hand decreases. Therefore, for example, in the electrical circuit formed when disinfectant water comes into contact with the user's hand when the distance between the spout 10 and the user's hand is short, the effect of electrostatic coupling between the second supply pipe 25 and the spout body 2 becomes large, and the capacitance detected by the second sensor 6 increases. Therefore, false detections by the second sensor 6, which occur when the user's hand comes into contact with the cleaning water (tap water or disinfectant water), are more likely to occur when the distance between the user's hand and the water outlet 10 is short.

[0099] The first predetermined range is the range in which detection targets are detected during general handwashing. The second predetermined range is a range in which the distance to the water outlet 10 is shorter than that of general handwashing, and in which false detection of a detection target by the second sensor 6 occurs when the washing water (tap water or disinfectant water) comes into contact with the user's hands.

[0100] The first sensor 5 outputs a normal detection signal of "1" when a target object is detected within the first predetermined range. The first sensor 5 outputs a normal detection signal of "0" when no target object is detected within the first predetermined range.

[0101] The first sensor 5 outputs "1" as a proximity detection signal when it detects an object within the second predetermined range. The first sensor 5 outputs "0" as a proximity detection signal when it does not detect an object within the second predetermined range. In addition, if an object is detected within the second predetermined range, the first sensor 5 also detects an object within the first predetermined range, so it normally outputs "1" as a detection signal.

[0102] The first sensor 5 detects objects within a first predetermined range and a second predetermined range based, for example, on the intensity (magnitude) of the reflected light of the detection light reflected from the object to be detected. If the intensity of the reflected light of the detection light reflected from the object to be detected is greater than the first threshold, the first sensor 5 detects an object within the first predetermined range and outputs "1" as a normal detection signal. If the intensity of the reflected light of the detection light reflected from the object to be detected is greater than the second threshold, the first sensor 5 detects an object within the second predetermined range and outputs "1" as a proximity detection signal. The second threshold is greater than the first threshold.

[0103] The normal detection signal is input to the control device 7. The normal detection signal is input to the control device 7 as the detection result of the object detected by the first sensor 5.

[0104] The proximity detection signal is input to the NOT circuit 31, inverted, and then input to the AND circuit 30. Therefore, when the first sensor 5 detects an object within the second predetermined range, the proximity detection signal of "0" inverted by the NOT circuit 31 is input to the AND circuit 30. Consequently, even if the second sensor 6 detects an object and the output signal of the second sensor 6 is "1", the input signal input to the control device 7 as a detection result of the second sensor 6 is "0".

[0105] Furthermore, if the first sensor 5 does not detect an object within the second predetermined range, a proximity detection signal of "1" inverted by the NOT circuit 31 is input to the AND circuit 30.

[0106] The water discharge / stopping treatment of the faucet device 1 according to the third embodiment is the same as the water discharge / stopping treatment in the first embodiment.

[0107] In the faucet device 1, the first sensor 5 is capable of detecting objects within a first predetermined range and a second predetermined range that is narrower than the first predetermined range. The control device 7 stops water flow in the first water flow mode according to the detection result of the object within the first predetermined range. When water is being discharged in the second water flow mode, if the first sensor 5 does not detect an object within the second predetermined range, the control device 7 stops water flow in the second water flow mode according to the detection result of the second sensor 6. When water is being discharged in the second water flow mode, if the first sensor 5 detects an object within the second predetermined range, the control device 7 continues water flow in the second water flow mode regardless of the detection result of the second sensor 6.

[0108] As a result, when the user is washing using the second water discharge mode, the faucet device 1 can suppress water shutoff against the user's intention, while also preventing the shutoff of the second water discharge mode from being suppressed more than necessary.

[0109] The faucet device 1 can determine whether the detection of an object by the second sensor 6 is due to a false detection caused by the user's hands coming into contact with the disinfectant water, or due to the user's water shut-off operation. Therefore, the faucet device 1 can suppress false detections of objects by the second sensor 6 caused by the user's hands coming into contact with the disinfectant water, while also being able to shut off the disinfectant water in response to the user's water shut-off operation, even when an object is detected by the first sensor 5.

[0110] (Fourth Embodiment) Next, the faucet device 1 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 9. Figure 9 is a functional block diagram centered on the control device 7 according to the fourth embodiment. Here, we will mainly describe the differences from the first and third embodiments, and will omit the description of the same configuration and processing as the first embodiment and the third embodiment.

[0111] The first sensor 5 emits detection light and outputs data regarding the intensity (magnitude) of the reflected light from the object being detected. The data regarding the intensity of the reflected light output from the first sensor 5 is input to the control device 7.

[0112] The control device 7 determines the detection result of the object detected by the first sensor 5 based on the data regarding the intensity of reflected light input from the first sensor 5. The control device 7 processes the detection result of the object detected by the second sensor 6 based on the data regarding the intensity of reflected light input from the first sensor 5.

[0113] The control device 7 detects a target object within a first predetermined range if the intensity of the reflected light of the detected light is greater than the first threshold. In other words, the control device 7 determines the detection result of the target object detected by the first sensor 5 as "detected" if the intensity of the reflected light of the detected light is greater than the first threshold. The first threshold and the first predetermined range are the same as in the third embodiment.

[0114] The control device 7 does not detect objects within the first predetermined range if the intensity of the reflected light of the detected light is below the first threshold. In other words, if the intensity of the reflected light of the detected light is below the first threshold, the control device 7 sets the detection result of the object detected by the first sensor 5 to "not detected".

[0115] The control device 7 detects a target object within a second predetermined range if the intensity of the reflected light of the detected light is greater than the second threshold. If the intensity of the reflected light of the detected light is less than or equal to the second threshold, the control device 7 sets the detection result of the target object by the second sensor 6 to "not detected". The second threshold and the second predetermined range are the same as in the third embodiment.

[0116] Next, the discharge shut-off treatment according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 10 and 11. Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the discharge shut-off treatment according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating the discharge shut-off treatment according to the fourth embodiment.

[0117] The control device 7 acquires data regarding the intensity of reflected light from the first sensor 5 (S300). The control device 7 acquires the detection result of the object to be detected by the second sensor 6 (S301).

[0118] The control device 7 determines whether the intensity of the reflected light is greater than a first threshold based on the data acquired from the first sensor 5 (S302). In other words, the control device 7 determines whether the object to be detected has been detected within a first predetermined range.

[0119] If the intensity of the reflected light is greater than the first threshold (S302: Yes), the control device 7 determines the detection result of the object detected by the first sensor 5 as "detected" (S303).

[0120] If the intensity of the reflected light is below the first threshold (S302: No), the control device 7 sets the detection result of the object detected by the first sensor 5 to "not detected" (S304).

[0121] The control device 7 determines, based on the data acquired from the first sensor 5, whether the intensity of the reflected light is greater than the second threshold (S305). In other words, the control device 7 determines whether the sample target has been detected within the second predetermined range.

[0122] If the intensity of the reflected light is greater than the second threshold (S305: Yes), the control device 7 determines the detection result of the object detected by the second sensor 6 as "not detected" (S306). In other words, even if the input signal input from the second sensor 6 to the control device 7 is "1", the control device 7 determines the detection result of the second sensor 6 as "not detected".

[0123] If the intensity of the reflected light is below the second threshold (S305: No), the control device 7 skips the process in step S306.

[0124] The processing in steps S307 to S310 is the same as the processing in steps S102 to S105 of the first embodiment.

[0125] If the first sensor 5 does not detect the target object (S309: No), the control device 7 determines whether the detection result from the second sensor 6 has changed from "not detected" to "detected" (S311). The control device 7 determines whether the signal output by the second sensor 6 has changed from "0" to "1".

[0126] The processing in steps S312 to S314 is the same as the processing in steps S107 to S109 of the first embodiment.

[0127] If the disinfectant water is being dispensed (S308: Yes), the control device 7 determines whether the detection result from the second sensor 6 has changed from "not detected" to "detected" (S315). In step S306, if the control device 7 determined that the detection result of the target detected by the second sensor 6 was "not detected", it applies the processing from step S306 to determine whether the detection result from the second sensor 6 has become "detected". In other words, if the control device 7 determined that the detection result of the target detected by the second sensor 6 was "not detected" in step S306, it determines in step S315 that the detection result from the second sensor 6 is "not detected".

[0128] If the detection result from the second sensor 6 is "detected" (S315: Yes), the control device 7 stops dispensing the disinfectant water (S316). If the detection result from the second sensor 6 is "not detected" (S315: No), the control device 7 continues dispensing the disinfectant water.

[0129] Similar to the third embodiment, the faucet device 1 can prevent the shutoff of the second water discharge mode from being suppressed more than necessary, while suppressing the shutoff of the second water discharge mode when the user is washing using the second water discharge mode.

[0130] The faucet device 1 can suppress the stopping of disinfectant water in the second water discharge mode against the user's intention, without using an AND circuit 30 (see Figure 8) or the like.

[0131] In the modified faucet device 1, as shown in Figure 12, the first sensor 5 may be provided on the base end side of the spout body 2 rather than the water discharge portion 10. That is, the transparent window 5a may be provided on the base end side of the spout body 2 rather than the water discharge portion 10. Figure 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating the modified faucet device 1.

[0132] The first sensor 5 (transparent window 5a) may be provided on the base end side of the spout body 2, rather than on the first outlet 11. For example, the first sensor 5 (transparent window 5a) may be provided between the first outlet 11 and the second outlet 12.

[0133] As a result, when the faucet device 1 is dispensing water in the second water discharge mode, for example, if the user brings their hand close to the tip of the spout body 2 to stop the water flow, the faucet device 1 can suppress the detection of the hand by the first sensor 5 and execute a water stop in the second water discharge mode. In other words, the faucet device 1 can execute a water stop in the second water discharge mode according to the user's intention. In addition, the faucet device 1 can shorten the distance between the water discharge part 10 and the tip of the spout body 2, thereby improving the design.

[0134] In the modified faucet device 1, the method of dispensing tap water may be changed in the first and second water dispensing modes. For example, in the first water dispensing mode, tap water is dispensed as a shower. In the second water dispensing mode, tap water is dispensed as a straight stream.

[0135] Further effects and modifications can be readily derived by those skilled in the art. Therefore, broader aspects of the present invention are not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments expressed and described above. Accordingly, various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit or scope of the overall concept of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0136] 1. Faucet device 2. Spout body 5. First Sensor 5a Transparent window 6. Second Sensor 7 Control device 10 Water outlet 11. First discharge outlet 12. Second discharge outlet 21. Valve No. 1 26. Second valve 30 AND gates 31 NOT circuit

Claims

1. A spout body having a conductive part, The spout body is provided with a water discharge section for discharging cleaning water, A first sensor that detects objects within a predetermined detection range, Using the aforementioned conductive part as an electrode, a second electrostatic sensor detects the object to be detected, A control device capable of executing a first water discharge mode in which water discharge is stopped according to the detection result of the first sensor, and a second water discharge mode in which water discharge is stopped according to the detection result of the second sensor. Equipped with, The control device is When water is being discharged in the second water discharge mode, if the first sensor does not detect the object to be detected, the water in the second water discharge mode is stopped according to the detection result of the second sensor. A faucet device that, when water is being discharged in the second water discharge mode, continues to discharge water in the second water discharge mode regardless of the detection result of the second sensor if the first sensor has detected an object to be detected.

2. The first sensor is capable of detecting objects in a first predetermined range and a second predetermined range that is narrower than the first predetermined range. The control device is Depending on the detection result of the target to be detected within the first predetermined range, the water discharge is stopped using the first water discharge mode. When water is being discharged in the second water discharge mode, if the first sensor does not detect an object within the second predetermined range, the water discharge in the second water discharge mode is stopped according to the detection result of the second sensor. The faucet device according to claim 1, wherein, when water is being discharged in the second water discharge mode, if the first sensor detects a target within the second predetermined range, water discharge in the second water discharge mode is continued regardless of the detection result of the second sensor.

3. The first sensor is a photoelectric sensor, and the lower surface of the spout body is provided with a transparent window. The faucet device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the transparent window is provided on the tip side of the spout body portion more than the water outlet portion.

4. The first sensor is a photoelectric sensor, and the lower surface of the spout body is provided with a transparent window. The faucet device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the transparent window is provided on the base end side of the spout body portion than the water discharge portion.

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