Bathtub equipment

Abstract

To provide a bathtub apparatus capable of appropriately adjusting temperature of hot water discharged from the discharge hole even in the bathtub apparatus supplying hot water in a bathtub by using a general hot water supplier.SOLUTION: A bathtub apparatus (1) has: a bathtub body (2); a water discharge device (8); a circulation flow passage; a circulation pump (6); a water amount sensor (24) capable of detecting a flow rate of hot water supplied by a hot water supplier; a second discharge port (9a) discharging a part of the hot water supplied by the hot water supplier (52) into the bathtub body; and a controller (16) flowing and stopping flowing of hot water into the circulation flow passage to raise temperature of hot water from a first discharge port. When temperature of hot water discharged from the first discharge port is raised, the controller flows the hot water supplied by the hot water supplier into the circulation flow passage and, when flow rate of the hot water detected by the water amount sensor is prescribed flow rate or less, discharges a part of the hot water supplied by the hot water supplier into the bathtub body from the second discharge port.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a bathtub device, and particularly to a bathtub device provided with a water discharge device.

Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-150334 (Patent Document 1) describes a bathtub water circulation type water discharge device. This bathtub water circulation type water discharge device is configured to take in the hot water in the bathtub and discharge the taken-in hot water into the bathtub from above the water surface of the bathtub. In this way, by hitting the hot water discharged from above against the shoulders or neck muscles of the bather, a comfortable stimulus is given to the bather. Further, in this bathtub water circulation type water discharge device, when the temperature of the hot water detected by the detection unit is higher than a predetermined temperature, the total heat amount per unit time of the hot water discharged from the water discharge holes is controlled to decrease. That is, by reducing the flow rate of the hot water discharged from the water discharge holes, the total heat amount per unit time of the discharged hot water is reduced, and it is suppressed that the bather gets overheated.

[0003] Furthermore, in another embodiment described in Patent Document 1, when the temperature of the hot water detected by the detection unit is higher than a predetermined temperature, tap water supplied from the water supply pipe is made to flow into the circulating hot water to lower the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water discharge holes. Thereby, the total heat amount per unit time of the discharged hot water is reduced, and it is possible to suppress the bather from getting overheated.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] According to the bath water circulation type water discharge device described in Patent Document 1, the water taken in from the bathtub is directed onto the bather's shoulders and neck, providing a pleasant stimulation to the bather, and by reducing the total amount of heat per unit time of the discharged water, overheating can be suppressed. However, bathers sometimes seek the warm stimulation of having water poured over their shoulders and neck. However, if the water stored in the bathtub is not at a sufficiently high temperature, there is a problem that even if the water taken in from the bathtub is directed onto the bather, it will not provide sufficient warm stimulation to the bather.

[0006] Here, in order to provide bathers with a warming sensation, one might consider mixing hot water supplied from an external water heater with the bathwater circulating in the bathtub, thereby increasing the temperature of the water discharged from the outlet. However, since the water discharged from the outlet rapidly heats the bather, extremely precise temperature control of the discharged water is necessary to provide bathers with a comfortable warming sensation. On the other hand, external water heaters generally cannot supply water at low flow rates. Specifically, external water heaters generally have the problem that if the flow rate of water supplied falls below a certain value (minimum ignition flow rate), the burner that heats the water entering the water heater will shut off. Therefore, since it is difficult to supply more than the minimum ignition flow rate from the external water heater, there is a problem in that it is difficult to maintain an appropriate temperature of the water discharged from the outlet.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a bathtub system that can appropriately adjust the temperature of the hot water discharged from the spout, even in a bathtub system that uses a general-purpose water heater to supply hot water to the bathtub. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a bathtub device equipped with a water discharge device, comprising: a bathtub body for storing hot water; a water intake port for drawing in hot water from the bathtub body; a water discharge device provided above the bathtub body and having a first water discharge port for discharging the hot water drawn in from the water intake port toward the inside of the bathtub body; a circulation channel connecting the water intake port and the first water discharge port; a circulation pump provided in the circulation channel for pressurizing and sending hot water from the water intake port toward the first water discharge port; a supply pipeline for allowing hot water supplied from a water heater to flow into the circulation channel; and a water volume sensor capable of detecting the flow rate of hot water supplied from the water heater. The bathtub has a sensor, a second outlet configured to discharge a portion of the hot water supplied from the water heater into the bathtub body, and a control device that controls the inflow and stopping of hot water from the supply pipe to the circulation channel in order to raise the temperature of the hot water discharged from the first outlet. When raising the temperature of the hot water discharged from the first outlet, the control device allows the hot water supplied from the water heater to flow into the circulation channel, and when the flow rate of the hot water detected by the water flow sensor falls below a predetermined flow rate, it discharges a portion of the hot water supplied from the water heater into the bathtub body from the second outlet.

[0009] In the present invention configured as described above, the hot water in the bathtub body, drawn in from the water intake by the circulation pump, is discharged inward into the bathtub body from the first water outlet of a water discharge device located above the bathtub body, via the circulation channel. Meanwhile, the hot water supplied from the water heater is introduced into the circulation channel via a supply pipe by the control device in order to raise the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water outlet. The control device introduces the hot water supplied from the water heater into the circulation channel, and when the flow rate of the hot water detected by the water flow sensor falls below a predetermined flow rate, it discharges a portion of the hot water supplied from the water heater into the bathtub body from the second water outlet.

[0010] With the present invention configured in this way, hot water supplied from the water heater flows into the circulation channel via the supply pipe, thereby increasing the temperature of the hot water discharged from the first outlet of the water discharge device and providing a warming sensation to the bather. However, controlling the temperature and flow rate of the hot water supplied from the water heater is difficult, and if a large amount of hot water is allowed to flow into the circulation channel, the temperature of the hot water discharged from the first outlet may become too high, potentially causing the bather to overheat. However, in a typical water heater, there is a minimum flow rate required to maintain ignition, and it is difficult to reduce the supply amount below this minimum flow rate.

[0011] According to the present invention configured as described above, when the flow rate of hot water detected by the water flow sensor falls below a predetermined flow rate, the control device discharges a portion of the hot water supplied from the water heater into the bathtub body from the second outlet. Therefore, even with a bathtub system that uses a general-purpose water heater to supply hot water to the bathtub, the temperature of the hot water discharged from the outlet can be appropriately adjusted. As a result, it is possible to provide a comfortable warming sensation to the bather while preventing overheating.

[0012] In the present invention, preferably, the second water outlet is configured to allow a portion of the hot water supplied from the water heater to flow in below the water surface of the hot water stored in the bathtub body.

[0013] With the present invention configured in this way, the second outlet is configured to allow a portion of the hot water supplied from the water heater to flow in below the water surface of the hot water stored in the bathtub body. As a result, a portion of the hot water supplied from the water heater is mixed into the large amount of hot water stored in the bathtub body. Therefore, the hot water flowing in from the second outlet has almost no effect on the temperature of the hot water stored in the bathtub body, and it is possible to prevent the bather from becoming overheated.

[0014] In the present invention, preferably, the hot water supplied from the supply pipeline flows into a portion of the circulation channel where negative pressure is generated. According to the present invention configured in this way, since the hot water supplied from the supply pipeline flows into the negative pressure portion of the circulation channel, it is possible to prevent the hot water sent to the circulation channel from flowing back into the supply pipeline, and to ensure that the hot water flows into the circulation channel reliably.

[0015] Preferably, the present invention further includes a storage tank for temporarily storing hot water supplied from a water heater, and the control device controls the flow rate of hot water flowing into the storage tank so that the flow rate of hot water flowing from the water heater into the storage tank is approximately the same as the flow rate of hot and cold water flowing from the storage tank into the circulation channel when the flow rate of hot water detected by the water flow sensor is greater than a predetermined flow rate.

[0016] With the present invention configured in this way, the flow rate of hot water flowing from the water heater into the storage tank is made approximately the same as the flow rate of hot water flowing from the storage tank into the circulation channel. As a result, the amount of wasted hot water can be kept to a minimum, the hot water stored in the storage tank can not be depleted, and the temperature control of the hot water discharged from the outlet can be reliably maintained. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to the bathtub device of the present invention, even in a bathtub device that supplies hot water to the bathtub using a general water heater, the temperature of the hot water discharged from the spout can be appropriately adjusted. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing the entire bathroom with a bathtub device according to an embodiment of the present invention installed. [Figure 2] This is a full cross-sectional view of a bathtub device according to an embodiment of the present invention, along the line II-II in Figure 1. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the circulation device and temperature control device provided in the bathtub device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view showing a circulation device and a temperature control device provided in a bathtub device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] The front view showing the chamber and the water discharge device provided in the bathtub device according to the embodiment of the present invention, taken out. [Figure 6] The cross-sectional view taken along the line VI-VI of FIG. 5 of the chamber and the water discharge device provided in the bathtub device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] The flowchart showing the process of temperature stimulation control executed by the bathtub device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0019] Next, the bathtub device according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the entire bathroom in which the bathtub device according to the embodiment of the present invention is installed.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 1, the bathtub device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a bathtub main body 2, a water discharge device 8 provided on the upper edge of the bathtub main body 2, and a control device (control unit) 16 that controls the discharge of hot water from this water discharge device, and is installed in the bathroom R. Further, a remote control 18 is attached to the wall surface of the bathroom R, and the discharge of hot water from the water discharge device 8 can be operated by this remote control 18. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the bathtub device 1 is arranged on one side of the bathroom R so as to be in contact with the wall surface.

[0021] The bathtub main body 2 is formed in a substantially rectangular box shape in plan view and is configured to store hot water inside. In the present embodiment, the bathtub main body 2 is arranged such that one long side thereof and two short sides on both sides thereof are in contact with the inner wall surface of the bathroom R. Further, the inner wall surface constituting one short side of the bathtub main body 2 is configured as a backrest surface 2a, which is the inner wall surface in the short side direction of the bathtub main body 2 formed so that a bather can lean against it. Further, an apron 2c is detachably attached to the long side of the bathtub main body 2 on the side not in contact with the inner wall surface of the bathroom R. Here, the backrest surface is the inner wall surface against which a bather's back contacts during bathing.

[0022] The water discharge device 8 is installed on the upper part of the backrest surface 2a of the bathtub body 2 and is configured to discharge hot water inward into the bathtub body 2. In this embodiment, the water discharge device 8 is equipped with a flat, wide first water outlet 8a that extends along the upper edge of the backrest surface 2a and is configured to discharge hot water toward the shoulders of a bather leaning against the backrest surface 2a.

[0023] The bathtub device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to draw in hot water stored in the bathtub body 2 through a water intake port (bathtub water inlet) 9b provided in the bathtub body 2 and discharge it from a water outlet 8a of the water discharge device 8. That is, the hot water in the bathtub body 2 is drawn in through the water intake port 9b and circulated back into the bathtub body 2 through the water outlet 8a of the water discharge device 8. On the other hand, in order to raise or lower the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water outlet 8a, the device is configured to mix hot water supplied from a water heater or water supplied from a tap into the circulating hot water.

[0024] Next, with reference to Figures 2 to 4, the configuration of a circulation device that circulates the hot water in the bathtub body 2 through the outlet 8a of the water discharge device 8, and a temperature control device that mixes hot or cold water at a predetermined temperature into the circulating hot water to adjust the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water discharge device will be explained. Figure 2 is a full cross-sectional view of a bathtub device according to an embodiment of the present invention, taken along the line II-II in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the circulation device and temperature control device provided in the bathtub device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the circulation device and temperature control device provided in the bathtub device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] First, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the circulation device for circulating the hot water inside the bathtub body 2 includes two water intake ports 9b provided on the side wall surface 2b (Figure 2) of the bathtub body 2, a chamber 11 into which the hot water drawn in from these water intake ports 9b flows, and a circulation pump 6 that pressurizes the hot water into the chamber 11.

[0026] As shown in Figure 3, one of the two water intake ports 9b is connected to the chamber 11 by a first pipe 4a. A circulation pump 6 is also installed in the middle of the first pipe 4a and is configured to pressurize the hot water drawn in from the water intake port 9b and send it to the chamber 11. Furthermore, the first pipe 4a is branched downstream of the circulation pump 6, with one branch connected to the chamber 11 and the other connected to the bathtub outlet 9a, which is a second outlet provided on the backrest surface 2a of the bathtub body 2. Therefore, a portion of the hot water pressurized by the circulation pump 6 recirculates into the bathtub body 2 from below the water surface through the bathtub outlet 9a.

[0027] One of the two water inlets 9b is directly connected to the chamber 11 by a second pipe 4b. As will be described later, when hot water pressurized by the circulation pump 6 flows into the chamber 11 from the first pipe 4a, a negative pressure is generated inside the chamber 11, and this negative pressure draws the hot water into the chamber 11 from the second pipe 4b. Furthermore, a third pipe 4c is connected to the top surface of the chamber 11, and the hot water flowing out of the chamber 11 is supplied to the discharge device 8 through the third pipe 4c. Thus, the first pipe 4a, the second pipe 4b, the third pipe 4c, and the chamber 11 constitute a circulation path connected to the water inlet 9b and the discharge port 8a.

[0028] Next, the configuration of chamber 11 will be described with reference to Figures 4 to 6. Figure 5 is a front view showing the chamber 11 and water discharge device 8, which are provided in the bathtub device 1 of this embodiment, separated from the main unit. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VI-VI in Figure 5.

[0029] As shown in Figures 4 to 6, the chamber 11 is generally constructed in the shape of a rectangular box, with the first pipe 4a and the second pipe 4b connected to its bottom surface. A third pipe 4c is connected to the top surface of the chamber 11, opposite the first pipe 4a. Furthermore, a supply pipe 10, which allows hot water supplied from a temperature control device (described later) to flow in, is also connected to the top surface of the chamber 11. Specifically, the first pipe 4a and the second pipe 4b are connected side by side to the bottom surface of the chamber 11, and the third pipe 4c is connected to the top surface of the chamber 11, opposite the first pipe 4a. The supply pipe 10 is located on the top surface of the chamber 11, between the first pipe 4a and the second pipe 4b.

[0030] As shown in Figure 4, the chamber 11 is positioned relatively low relative to the bathtub body 2, and is located below the water level of the hot water stored in the bathtub body 2. Therefore, during normal use of the bathtub device 1, the chamber 11, the entirety of the first pipe 4a and the second pipe 4b, and the lower part of the third pipe 4c are filled with hot water.

[0031] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, a nozzle 20 is provided at the end of the first conduit 4a connected to the bottom of the chamber 11, narrowing the flow path of the hot water flowing from the first conduit 4a into the chamber 11. This increases the flow velocity of the hot water pressurized by the circulation pump 6 (Figures 3 and 4) as it flows from the first conduit 4a through the nozzle 20 into the chamber 11. As a result, the hot water flowing from the first conduit 4a into the chamber 11 flows vigorously into the third conduit 4c, which is connected opposite the first conduit 4a, and the hot water that was filling the chamber 11 is also drawn into the third conduit 4c.

[0032] Furthermore, as the hot water in the chamber 11 is drawn in and flows into the third pipe 4c, negative pressure is created in at least the portion N1 to which the second pipe 4b is connected and the portion N2 to which the supply pipe 10 is connected within the chamber 11. In other words, the second pipe 4b and the supply pipe 10 are connected to the negative pressure portion within the chamber 11, which is part of the circulation flow path. As a result, the hot water in the second pipe 4b and the hot water in the supply pipe 10 are drawn into the chamber 11 by the negative pressure and flow into the third pipe 4c together with the hot water that flows in from the first pipe 4a.

[0033] Specifically, the nozzle 20 installed in the chamber 11, and the third pipe 4c connected to it, act like a jet pump, causing the hot water supplied from the second pipe 4b and the supply pipe 10, respectively, to flow into the third pipe 4c. The hot water that flows into the third pipe 4c flows into the water discharge device 8 connected to the upper end of the third pipe 4c, and is discharged from its outlet 8a toward the inside of the bathtub body 2. As shown in Figure 5, the outlet 8a of the water discharge device 8 is thin and wide, so the hot water discharged from the outlet 8a comes into a thin film and hits the neck and shoulders of the bather.

[0034] Next, with reference to Figures 3 and 4, the temperature control device provided in the bathtub device 1 of the embodiment of the present invention will be described. The temperature control device is configured to allow hot water at a predetermined temperature to flow into the circulation channel from the water intake port 9b of the bathtub body 2 to the water outlet 8a of the water outlet device 8. This allows the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water outlet device 8 to be raised or lowered, providing the bather with a hot or cold sensation.

[0035] As shown in Figure 3, the temperature control device includes a storage tank 12 that receives and temporarily stores hot water supplied from an external hot water source or water supplied from an external water source, and a pressure pump 14 that controls the flow rate of hot water or water that flows from the storage tank 12 into the chamber 11. In this embodiment, a water heater 52 is connected as an external hot water source, and water supplied from the water supply 54 is branched at the branching section 54a and supplied to the water heater 52.

[0036] The water heater 52 heats the water supplied from the tap water supply 54 and supplies the resulting hot water to the storage tank 12 through the hot water pipe 40a and the hot water solenoid valve 56. In this embodiment, the water heater 52 is also used as a water heater for the kitchen (not shown), and when the hot water temperature is set on the kitchen side, hot water at that temperature is also supplied to the storage tank 12. Therefore, in this embodiment, the control device 16 cannot independently control the temperature of the hot water supplied from the water heater 52.

[0037] Meanwhile, water supplied from the external water source, the tap water supply 54, is supplied to the storage tank 12 through the water supply pipe 40b and the water solenoid valve 58. Furthermore, a check valve 41a is provided upstream of the hot water solenoid valve 56 in the hot water supply pipe 40a, and a check valve 41b is provided upstream of the water solenoid valve 58 in the water supply pipe 40b. In addition, the hot water supply pipe 40a and the water supply pipe 40b merge at a junction 43a provided downstream of the hot water solenoid valve 56 and the water solenoid valve 58.

[0038] A shared pipe 43 is connected to the downstream side of the confluence section 43a and extends to the storage tank 12. This shared pipe 43 is equipped with, in order from the upstream side, a water flow sensor 24, a flow control valve 26, a constant flow valve 28, and an inlet side temperature sensor 30. The water flow sensor 24 is configured to detect the volumetric flow rate [L / min] of hot and cold water flowing through the common pipe 43 per unit time and output a detection signal to the control device 16. When the hot water solenoid valve 56 is open and the cold water solenoid valve 58 is closed, the water flow sensor 24 can detect the flow rate of hot water supplied from the water heater 52.

[0039] The flow control valve 26 is a water volume proportional valve that controls the flow rate of hot and cold water flowing through the common pipe 43 based on a control signal from the control device 16. The constant flow valve 28 is configured to adjust the flow rate of hot and cold water flowing through the common pipe 43 so as not to exceed a predetermined flow rate. The inlet-side temperature sensor 30 is a thermistor configured to detect the temperature of the hot water flowing into the storage tank 12 through the common pipe 43 and output a detection signal to the control device 16.

[0040] The storage tank 12 is configured to temporarily store hot water that will flow into the chamber 11, which is part of the circulation path, in order to raise or lower the temperature of the hot water discharged from the outlet 8a. That is, water or hot water supplied through the common pipe 43 flows into the storage tank 12 and is temporarily stored there, and then flows into the chamber 11 through the supply pipeline 10. The storage tank 12 is a rectangular tank, the common pipe 43 is connected to the top surface of the storage tank 12, and the supply pipeline 10 is connected to the bottom surface of the storage tank 12. That is, the common pipe 43 allows hot water or water to flow into the storage tank 12 from above the water level W0 of the water or hot water stored in the storage tank 12 with a predetermined air gap. For this reason, the water heater 52 and the water supply 54 connected to the storage tank 12 are isolated from the downstream side of the storage tank 12.

[0041] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the storage tank 12 is equipped with a storage tank temperature sensor 32, a float switch 42, and an overflow pipe 44. The storage tank temperature sensor 32 is a thermistor configured to detect the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage tank 12 and output a detection signal to the control device 16. The float switch 42 comprises a stem 42a and a float 42b that can move up and down along the stem 42a. The float 42b moves up and down according to the water level in the storage tank 12, and when the water level in the storage tank 12 reaches a predetermined level, a detection signal is output from the float switch 42 to the control device 16.

[0042] The overflow pipe 44 is an open pipe extending upward into the storage tank 12 from the bottom of the storage tank 12, with its upper end forming an overflow section 44a. Because the overflow pipe 44 is provided, when the water level in the storage tank 12 rises above a predetermined level, the hot water or water in the storage tank 12 flows over the overflow section 44a at its upper end into the overflow pipe 44 and is discharged through the overflow pipe 44. The hot water or water discharged from the storage tank 12 through the overflow pipe 44 falls onto a drain pan (not shown) located below the bathtub body 2 and is drained into the sewer.

[0043] Next, the storage tank 12 is connected to the chamber 11 via the supply pipeline 10. Along the supply pipeline 10, in order from upstream, are an outlet temperature sensor 34, a pressure pump 14, a three-way valve 35, a water volume sensor 36, a check valve 38, and a solenoid valve 39. Furthermore, the supply pipeline 10 is branched at the three-way valve 35, and a fourth pipeline 4d branched from the three-way valve 35 extends to the bathtub outlet 9a provided on the bathtub body 2. The fourth pipeline 4d is also equipped with a water volume proportional valve 33 and a solenoid valve 37.

[0044] Hot or cold water flowing into the chamber 11 from the supply pipeline 10 is mixed with the hot or cold water flowing into the chamber 11 from the bathtub body 2 through the first pipeline 4a and the second pipeline 4b. The mixed hot or cold water is then discharged from the outlet 8a of the water discharge device 8 through the third pipeline 4c. A discharge flow rate sensor 21 and a discharge water temperature sensor 22 are provided along the third pipeline 4c. The temperature of the hot or cold water stored in the bathtub body 2 is detected by the bathtub temperature sensor 23. The discharge flow rate sensor 21 may be omitted.

[0045] The outlet-side temperature sensor 34 is a thermistor configured to detect the temperature of the hot water flowing out of the storage tank 12 and output a detection signal to the control device 16. The pressurizing pump 14 is configured to control the flow rate of hot water or cold water flowing from the storage tank 12 into the chamber 11 based on a control signal from the control device 16. The three-way valve 35 is configured to divert a portion of the hot water flowing through the supply pipeline 10, which is pressurized by the pressure pump 14, to the fourth pipeline 4d, based on a control signal from the control device 16. Under normal circumstances, the three-way valve 35 is set to discharge the entire amount of incoming hot water to the downstream side of the supply pipeline 10 (to the water flow sensor 36), and when the flow rate of hot water supplied from the water heater 52 is below a predetermined flow rate, it diverts a portion of the hot water to the fourth pipeline 4d. The control of the three-way valve 35 will be described later. The water flow sensor 36 is configured to detect the volumetric flow rate [L / min] of hot or cold water flowing through the supply pipeline 10 per unit time and to output a detection signal to the control device 16.

[0046] The check valve 38 is configured to prevent hot water or cold water from flowing back from the chamber 11 to the storage tank 12 through the supply pipeline 10. The solenoid valve 39 is opened and closed based on a control signal from the control device 16, and is configured to open when hot water or cold water is to flow into the chamber 11. When hot water or cold water is not supplied to the chamber 11, the solenoid valve 39 is closed, and even if negative pressure is generated in the chamber 11, hot water or cold water will not flow into the chamber 11 from the supply pipeline 10.

[0047] The discharge flow rate sensor 21 is a sensor configured to detect the flow rate of hot and cold water discharged from the water discharge device 8 through the third pipe 4c and to output a detection signal to the control device 16. The water discharge temperature sensor 22 is a thermistor configured to detect the temperature of the hot and cold water discharged from the water discharge device 8 through the third pipe 4c and output a detection signal to the control device 16.

[0048] The bathtub temperature sensor 23 is a thermistor configured to detect the temperature of the water stored in the bathtub body 2 and output a detection signal to the control device 16. Note that the temperature of the water stored in the bathtub body 2 can also be detected by the discharge water temperature sensor 22 when no water is flowing from the supply pipe 10 into the chamber 11. Therefore, the discharge water temperature sensor 22 can be used as the bathtub temperature sensor 23, and in this case, the bathtub temperature sensor 23 can be omitted.

[0049] Next, the control device 16 provided in the bathtub device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. The control device 16 is configured to control the temperature control device so that water at the temperature desired by the bather is discharged from the water dispenser 8, based on the bather's operation of the remote control 18 (Figure 1). Specifically, the control device 16 consists of a microprocessor, memory, software to operate them, interface circuits (not shown), etc. The control device 16 is housed in the space behind the backrest surface 2a of the bathtub body 2. As shown in Figure 1, the space behind the backrest surface 2a can be accessed from the washing area side of the bathroom R by removing the apron 2c of the bathtub body 2. Therefore, maintenance such as adjustment and repair of the control device 16 can be easily performed simply by removing the apron 2c of the bathtub body 2. In other words, by centrally arranging the control device 16 in an easily accessible space, maintainability can be improved.

[0050] First, the control device 16 receives the temperatures detected by the water discharge temperature sensor 22, the bathtub temperature sensor 23, the inlet temperature sensor 30, the storage tank temperature sensor 32, and the outlet temperature sensor 34. Furthermore, command signals from the remote control 18, as well as detection signals from the water volume sensor 24, the water volume sensor 36, and the float switch 42, are also input to the control device 16.

[0051] The control device 16 sends control signals to the circulation pump 6, pressure pump 14, flow control valve 26, three-way valve 35, solenoid valve 39, hot water solenoid valve 56, and cold water solenoid valve 58, which constitute the temperature control device, to control the temperature of the hot and cold water discharged from the water discharge device 8 so that it reaches the set temperature. In other words, the control device 16 introduces hot or cold water from the storage tank 12 into the hot and cold water circulating in the circulation channel so that the temperature detected by the water discharge temperature sensor 22 reaches a predetermined temperature. This makes it possible to discharge hot or cold water from the water discharge device 8 that is higher or lower than the temperature detected by the bathtub temperature sensor 23.

[0052] Specifically, when discharging water at a temperature higher than the water temperature in the bathtub body 2, the water solenoid valve 58 is closed and the hot water solenoid valve 56 is opened to store water at a higher temperature than the water in the bathtub body 2 in the storage tank 12. Next, the solenoid valve 39 is opened and the pressure pump 14 is activated to allow the hotter water from the storage tank 12 to flow into the chamber 11. As a result, the hotter water from the storage tank 12 is mixed with the water in the bathtub body 2 that is circulating through the circulation channel, and the temperature of the water discharged from the outlet 8a of the water discharge device 8 rises.

[0053] The temperature of the hot and cold water discharged from the outlet 8a is detected by the water outlet temperature sensor 22. If the temperature detected by the water outlet temperature sensor 22 is lower than the set temperature, the rotation speed of the pressurizing pump 14 is increased while the rotation speed of the circulation pump 6 is decreased, increasing the proportion of hotter water mixed in. If the temperature of the hot and cold water detected by the water outlet temperature sensor 22 is higher than the set temperature, the rotation speed of the pressurizing pump 14 is decreased while the rotation speed of the circulation pump 6 is increased, decreasing the proportion of hotter water mixed in. In addition, the control device 16 controls the flow control valve 26 based on the detection signals from the water volume sensor 24 and the water volume sensor 36 so that the amount of hot water stored in the storage tank 12 is appropriate.

[0054] On the other hand, when discharging water at a lower temperature than the water temperature in the bathtub body 2, the water solenoid valve 58 is opened and the hot water solenoid valve 56 is closed to store water at a lower temperature than the water temperature in the bathtub body 2 in the storage tank 12. Next, the solenoid valve 39 is opened and the pressurizing pump 14 is activated to allow the lower temperature water from the storage tank 12 to flow into the chamber 11. As a result, the lower temperature water from the storage tank 12 is mixed with the water in the bathtub body 2 that is circulating through the circulation channel, and the temperature of the water discharged from the outlet 8a of the water discharge device 8 decreases.

[0055] If the temperature of the hot and cold water detected by the water discharge temperature sensor 22 is higher than the set temperature, the rotation speed of the booster pump 14 is increased while the rotation speed of the circulation pump 6 is decreased, increasing the proportion of lower-temperature water being mixed. If the temperature of the hot and cold water detected by the water discharge temperature sensor 22 is lower than the set temperature, the rotation speed of the booster pump 14 is decreased while the rotation speed of the circulation pump 6 is increased, decreasing the proportion of lower-temperature water being mixed.

[0056] Next, with reference to Figure 7, the thermal stimulation control by the control device 16 will be explained in detail. The bathtub device 1 of this embodiment is configured to perform temperature stimulation control for the purpose of providing a comfortable temperature stimulation to the bather when they want to warm up in the bathtub body 2. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the temperature stimulation control process performed by the bathtub device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The flowchart shown in Figure 7 is performed when the bather wants to warm up by operating the remote control 18.

[0057] First, in step S1 of Figure 7, it is determined whether or not circulating water is being discharged from the water discharge device 8 at the time the bather operates the remote control 18. That is, when circulating water is being discharged, the solenoid valve 39 is closed and the circulation pump 6 is operating. In this state, the hot water in the bathtub body 2 is drawn in from the suction port 9b and discharged from the water discharge port 8a of the water discharge device 8, circulating back into the bathtub body 2. On the other hand, because the solenoid valve 39 is closed, the hot water in the storage tank 12 does not flow into the circulation channel. Thus, when circulating water is being discharged and the bather operates the remote control 18, the flowchart shown in Figure 7 proceeds to step S3.

[0058] On the other hand, if the bather operates the remote control 18 while circulation water is not being discharged, the system proceeds to step S2, in which step S2, circulation water discharge is started. That is, the circulation pump 6 is operated with the solenoid valve 39 closed, and the hot water in the bathtub body 2 is discharged from the outlet 8a of the water discharge device 8 to circulate. In this way, even if the bather operates the remote control 18 to warm up, the water discharge device 8 does not discharge hot water that is hotter than the hot water in the bathtub body 2 from the start, but rather circulation water discharge is started first.

[0059] Next, in step S3, the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water discharge device 8, as detected by the water discharge temperature sensor 22, is acquired by the control device 16. Furthermore, in step S4, the flow rate of the hot water discharged from the water discharge device 8, as detected by the discharge flow rate sensor 21, is acquired by the control device 16.

[0060] Next, in step S5, the storage tank 12 is prepared. Specifically, the control device 16 sends a control signal to the hot water solenoid valve 56 to open it, allowing the hot water generated in the water heater 52 to flow into the storage tank 12. As mentioned above, in this embodiment, the water heater 52 is also used as a water heater for the kitchen (not shown), so hot water at the temperature set in the kitchen may be supplied to the storage tank 12, and the control device 16 does not control the set temperature of the water heater 52.

[0061] Furthermore, in step S6, the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage tank 12, as detected by the storage tank temperature sensor 32, is acquired by the control device 16. If the storage tank 12 is empty when the supply of hot water from the water heater 52 is started, the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage tank 12 will be approximately equal to the temperature of the hot water supplied from the water heater 52. However, if there is any low-temperature hot water or water remaining in the storage tank 12 when the supply of hot water from the water heater 52 is started, the temperature of the hot water in the storage tank 12 will be lower than the temperature of the hot water supplied from the water heater 52.

[0062] If there is any low-temperature water remaining in the storage tank 12, the water heater 52 continues to supply hot water, and the resulting mixture of low-temperature water and other substances in the storage tank 12 overflows through the overflow pipe 44. This causes the temperature of the water stored in the storage tank 12 to rise. Since the storage tank 12 has a relatively small volume, even if there is any low-temperature water remaining in the storage tank 12, the temperature of the water in the storage tank 12 rises relatively quickly.

[0063] Next, in step S7, it is determined whether the storage tank 12 is ready. That is, in step S7, it is determined whether a sufficient amount of hot water at a sufficiently high temperature has been stored in the storage tank 12. As described above, the temperature of the hot water in the storage tank 12 is detected by the storage tank temperature sensor 32. In addition, whether a sufficient amount of hot water has been stored in the storage tank 12 is detected by the float switch 42. If the storage tank 12 is not ready, the process returns to step S5, and the steps S5→S6→S7→S5 are repeated until the preparation is complete.

[0064] Once the preparation of the storage tank 12 is complete, the temperature control process in steps S8 to S18 is performed. In step S9, it is determined whether or not an instruction signal to terminate the temperature control process has been input. If an instruction signal to terminate the temperature control process has been input, one process in the flowchart shown in Figure 7 is terminated. Specifically, when the bather operates the remote control 18 to terminate the thermal stimulation from the discharge of warm water, an instruction signal to terminate the temperature control process is input to the control device 16.

[0065] If no signal indicating the end of temperature control processing has been received, the process proceeds to step S10. In step S10, the control unit 16 obtains the target water discharge temperature from the water discharge device 8 and the current water discharge temperature from the water discharge device 8, and then proceeds to S11.

[0066] In step S11, the control unit 16 calculates the required flow rate of hot water to be supplied from the water supply channel 10, for example, based on the difference between the target water discharge temperature and the current water discharge temperature, and the flow rate of hot water on the circulation channel 4 side, and then proceeds to S12.

[0067] Next, in step S12, it is determined whether the required flow rate calculated in step S11 is greater than zero. If the calculated required flow rate is zero, the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 7 is terminated. For example, if the temperature of the hot water being drawn in and circulating from the water intake 9b is equal to the set temperature obtained in step S10, there is no need to introduce hot water from the storage tank 12, and the required flow rate of hot water to be introduced from the storage tank 12 becomes zero (for example, if the thermal stimulation is continued for a long time, the temperature of the hot water in the bathtub body 2 will rise, which may lead to this situation). On the other hand, if the required flow rate calculated in step S11 is greater than zero, the control device 16 sends a control signal to the flow control valve 26 so that the required amount of hot water flows from the water heater 52 into the storage tank 12. Furthermore, the water flow sensor 24 detects the flow rate of hot water supplied from the water heater 52, and the process in the flowchart shown in Figure 7 proceeds to step S13.

[0068] In step S13, it is determined whether the flow rate detected by the water flow sensor 24 is greater than a predetermined flow rate. In other words, in a typical gas water heater, if the flow rate of hot water to be supplied falls below a predetermined minimum ignition flow rate, the gas cannot be kept ignited, and therefore the flow rate cannot be reduced further. In step S13, it is determined whether the flow rate supplied from the water heater 52 is greater than the minimum ignition flow rate and whether the ignition state can be stably maintained in order to bring in the required flow rate from the storage tank 12. In this embodiment, the minimum ignition flow rate of the water heater 52 is approximately 3.5 L / min, and the predetermined flow rate at which the water heater 52 can maintain a stable ignition state is set to approximately 4.0 L / min. If the flow rate detected by the water flow sensor 24 is greater than the predetermined flow rate, the process in the flowchart proceeds to step S14.

[0069] In step S14, the control device 16 sends a control signal to the flow control valve 26 to set the hot water flow rate from the water heater 52 to the storage tank 12 to approximately the required flow rate calculated in step S11. Since this hot water flow rate is sufficiently greater than the minimum ignition flow rate, the water heater 52 can maintain ignition. Furthermore, in step S16, the control device 16 sends a control signal to the pressure pump 14 to introduce the required flow rate of hot water calculated in step S11 into the circulation channel. In this state, the three-way valve 35 is set to release all of the incoming hot water into the downstream supply pipe 10. That is, the control device 16 operates the pressure pump 14 so that the flow rate detected by the water flow sensor 36 becomes the required flow rate calculated in step S11. As a result, the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water discharge device 8 reaches the set temperature.

[0070] Furthermore, the flow rate of hot water flowing from the water heater 52 into the storage tank 12 and the flow rate of hot water flowing from the storage tank 12 into the circulation channel become approximately equal, and the water level in the storage tank 12 is maintained at a nearly constant level. As a variation, the flow rate of hot water flowing from the water heater 52 into the storage tank 12 can be set to be slightly greater than the required flow rate out of the storage tank 12. This prevents the hot water in the storage tank 12 from running out even if there are detection errors in the flow control valve 26 or the water volume sensor 36.

[0071] On the other hand, if in step S13 the flow rate detected by the water flow sensor 24 is determined to be less than or equal to a predetermined flow rate, the process proceeds to step S15. In step S15, the control device 16 sends a control signal to the flow control valve 26 to set the hot water supply flow rate from the water heater 52 to the storage tank 12 to a predetermined flow rate that is greater than the minimum ignition flow rate of the water heater 52. This allows the water heater 52 to maintain ignition.

[0072] Next, in step S17, the control device 16 sends a control signal to the three-way valve 35, switching the valve 35 so that a portion of the hot water flowing out of the pressurizing pump 14 is branched into the fourth pipe 4d. Furthermore, the control device 16 sends a control signal to the pressurizing pump 14, causing the required flow rate of hot water calculated in step S11 to flow out into the supply pipe 10 downstream of the three-way valve 35, and into the circulation channel. That is, the control device 16 sends control signals to the pressurizing pump 14, the flow control valve 26, the water volume proportional valve 33, the solenoid valve 37, and the three-way valve 35, controlling them so that the flow rate detected by the water volume sensor 24 becomes a predetermined flow rate and the flow rate detected by the water volume sensor 36 becomes the required flow rate. As a result, the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water discharge device 8 becomes the set temperature.

[0073] Furthermore, the solenoid valve 37 installed in the fourth pipe 4d is opened, and the water volume proportional valve 33 is set so that the flow rate of the hot water branched to the fourth pipe 4d is slightly less than the flow rate obtained by subtracting the required flow rate from the predetermined flow rate. The hot water flowing into the fourth pipe 4d flows into the bathtub body 2 from below the water level W1 of the hot water stored in the bathtub body 2 through the bathtub outlet 9a. In this case, the relatively hot water flowing into the bathtub body 2 from the bathtub outlet 9a flows into the large amount of hot water stored in the bathtub body 2, so it has almost no effect on the bather's perception of temperature.

[0074] Furthermore, the flow rate of hot and cold water branched from the three-way valve 35 to the fourth pipe 4d is set to be slightly less than the flow rate obtained by subtracting the required flow rate from the predetermined flow rate. As a result, the flow rate of hot water (predetermined flow rate) flowing into the storage tank 12 is greater than the flow rate of hot and cold water flowing out of the storage tank 12. Therefore, the water level W0 in the storage tank 12 gradually rises, and when it exceeds the height of the overflow section 44a at the upper end of the overflow pipe 44, the hot and cold water in the storage tank 12 is discharged from the overflow pipe 44.

[0075] Thus, when the temperature of the hot water supplied from the water heater 52 is high, a small amount of hot water is introduced into the circulation channel, which increases the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water outlet 8, thus reducing the required flow rate. As a result, the required flow rate becomes less than the predetermined flow rate of the water heater 52. Therefore, when the flow rate of hot water detected by the water flow sensor 24 falls below the predetermined flow rate, the control device 16 introduces the hot water supplied from the water heater 52 into the circulation channel and also discharges a portion of the hot water supplied from the water heater 52 into the bathtub body 2 from the bathtub outlet 9a. In this way, a small amount of hot water is introduced into the circulation channel while maintaining a predetermined flow rate that is higher than the minimum ignition flow rate of the water heater 52, thereby maintaining the temperature of the hot water discharged from the outlet 8a at the set temperature.

[0076] When the processing in step S16 or S17 is completed, the process in the flowchart returns to step S9, and the processing in steps S9 to S16, or steps S9 to S17, is repeatedly executed until an instruction to end the temperature control process is entered (step S9 → return), or the required flow rate becomes zero (step S12 → return).

[0077] According to the bathtub device 1 of this embodiment of the present invention, the hot water supplied from the water heater 52 flows into the circulation channel via the supply pipe 10, so the temperature of the hot water discharged from the outlet 8a of the water discharge device 8 can be increased, providing a warming sensation to the bather. Furthermore, according to the bathtub device 1 of this embodiment, when the flow rate of the hot water detected by the water flow sensor 24 falls below a predetermined flow rate, the control device 16 discharges a portion of the hot water supplied from the water heater 52 into the bathtub body 2 from the bathtub outlet 9a. Therefore, even with a bathtub device 1 that uses a general water heater 52 to supply hot water into the bathtub body 2, the temperature of the hot water discharged from the outlet 8a can be appropriately adjusted. As a result, it is possible to provide a comfortable warming sensation to the bather while preventing overheating.

[0078] Furthermore, according to the bathtub device 1 of this embodiment, the bathtub outlet 9a is configured to allow a portion of the hot water supplied from the water heater 52 to flow in below the water surface of the hot water stored in the bathtub body 2. As a result, a portion of the hot water supplied from the water heater 52 is mixed into the large amount of hot water stored in the bathtub body 2. Therefore, the hot water flowing in from the bathtub outlet 9a has almost no effect on the temperature of the hot water stored in the bathtub body 2, and it is possible to prevent bathers from becoming overheated.

[0079] Furthermore, according to the bathtub device 1 of this embodiment, the hot water supplied from the supply pipe 10 flows into the negative pressure portion of the chamber 11 that constitutes the circulation channel, so it is possible to prevent the hot water sent to the circulation channel from flowing back into the supply pipe 10, and to ensure that the hot water flows into the circulation channel reliably.

[0080] Furthermore, according to the bathtub device 1 of this embodiment, the flow rate of hot water flowing into the storage tank 12 is made approximately the same as the flow rate of hot water flowing from the storage tank 12 into the circulation channel. As a result, it is possible to prevent the amount of hot water that is wasted from running out while keeping the amount of hot water stored in the storage tank 12 to a minimum, and to reliably maintain temperature control of the hot water discharged from the outlet.

[0081] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but various modifications can be made to the embodiments described above. In the embodiments of the present invention, when switching the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water discharge device 8 from hot water that is hotter than the hot water in the bathtub body 2 to hot water that is colder, or vice versa, it is necessary to replace the hot water in the storage tank 12 from hot water that is hotter to hot water that is colder, or vice versa. In this case, it is desirable to reduce the flow rate of hot water flowing into the storage tank 12 to less than the flow rate of hot water flowing out of the storage tank 12 from a predetermined time before the temperature of the hot water is switched, so that the amount of hot water stored in the storage tank 12 at the time of switching is reduced. This makes it possible to quickly switch the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water discharge device 8.

[0082] Alternatively, the three-way valve 35 can be switched a predetermined time before the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water discharge device 8 is switched, causing the hot water in the storage tank 12 to flow out into the bathtub body 2 from the bathtub outlet 9a, thereby reducing the amount of hot water in the storage tank 12. Furthermore, the present invention can also be configured such that a drainage solenoid valve (not shown) is provided in the storage tank 12, and the solenoid valve is opened a predetermined time before the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water discharge device 8 is switched, thereby reducing the amount of hot water in the storage tank 12. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0083] 1. Bathtub equipment 2 Bathtub body 2a Backrest surface 2b Side wall 2c Apron 4a 1st pipeline 4b 2nd pipeline 4c 3rd pipeline 4d 4th conduit 6. Circulation pump 8. Water discharge device 8a Outlet (First Outlet) 9a Bathtub spout (second spout) 9b Water intake 10 Supply line 11 Chambers 12 Storage tanks 14. Pressure pump 16 Control device 18 Remote control 20 nozzles 21 Discharge flow sensor 22. Water discharge temperature sensor 23 Bathtub temperature sensor 24 Water volume sensor 26 Flow control valve 28 Constant flow valve 30 Inlet temperature sensor 32 Storage tank temperature sensor 33. Proportional water flow valve 34 Outlet temperature sensor 35 Three-way valve 36 Water volume sensor 37 Solenoid valve 38 Check valve 39 Solenoid valve 40a hot water pipe 40b Water supply pipe 41a Check valve 41b Check valve 42 Float switch 42a Stem 42b Float 43 Common pipe 43a Confluence 44 Overflow pipe 44a Overflow section 52 Water heater 54. Water supply 54a Branch 56. Solenoid valve for hot water 58 Water Solenoid Valve

Claims

1. A bathtub device equipped with a water discharge device, The bathtub body that stores hot water, This bathtub has an intake port for drawing in hot water, A water discharge device is provided above the bathtub body and has a first discharge port that discharges the hot water drawn in from the water intake port toward the inside of the bathtub body, A circulation channel connecting the above-mentioned water intake port and the above-mentioned first water discharge port, A circulation pump is provided in this circulation channel and pumps hot water from the water intake to the first water outlet. A supply pipeline that allows hot water supplied from the water heater to flow into the above circulation channel, A water flow sensor capable of detecting the flow rate of hot water supplied from the above-mentioned water heater, A second outlet is configured to discharge a portion of the hot water supplied from the water heater into the bathtub body, The system includes a control device that controls the inflow and cessation of hot water from the supply pipeline to the circulation channel in order to raise the temperature of the hot water discharged from the first outlet, In order to increase the temperature of the hot water discharged from the first outlet, the control device allows the hot water supplied from the water heater to flow into the circulation channel, and when the flow rate of the hot water supplied from the water heater and detected by the water flow sensor falls below a predetermined flow rate which is greater than the minimum ignition flow rate of the water heater, the control device sets the flow rate of the hot water supplied from the water heater to a predetermined flow rate which is greater than the minimum ignition flow rate of the water heater, and discharges a portion of the hot water supplied from the water heater into the bathtub body from the second outlet.

2. The bathtub device according to claim 1, wherein the second water outlet is configured to allow a portion of the hot water supplied from the water heater to flow into the bathtub body below the water surface of the hot water stored in the bathtub body.

3. The bathtub apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the hot water flowing in from the above-mentioned supply pipeline flows into the portion of the circulation channel that becomes negatively pressurized.

4. Furthermore, the bathtub apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the apparatus has a storage tank for temporarily storing the hot water supplied from the water heater, and the control device controls the flow rate of hot water flowing into the storage tank so that the flow rate of hot water flowing from the water heater into the storage tank is approximately the same as the flow rate of hot water flowing from the storage tank into the circulation channel when the flow rate of hot water detected by the water flow sensor is greater than the predetermined flow rate.

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