Bathtub equipment

Abstract

To provide a bathtub device which can suppress unpleasant feeling given to a bathing person as a temperature of hot water discharged to the bathing person in a bathtub temporarily fluctuates.SOLUTION: A bathtub device of the invention includes: a water discharge part 8 provided above a bathtub body 2; a circulation flow passage 4 for communicating a water intake port part and the water discharge part; a first pump 6 which is provided in the circulation flow passage for sending hot water taken from the water intake port part in the circulation flow passage; a water supply flow passage 10 which is connected to the circulation flow passage for supplying the hot water or water from a supply source of the outside; an accumulation part 12 which is formed in the water supply flow passage for accumulating the hot water or the water to be supplied and is formed to separate a flow passage between an upstream side and a downstream side of the water supply flow passage; and a second pump 14 which is provided on a downstream side of the accumulation part in the water supply flow passage for sending the hot water or the water in the accumulation part to the circulation flow passage.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a bathtub apparatus, and particularly to a bathtub apparatus that supplies hot and cold water to a bathtub. Background Art

[0002] As disclosed in Patent Document 1, a bathtub water circulation type water discharging apparatus is known. Such a bathtub water circulation type water discharging apparatus is configured to discharge drawn hot and cold water toward the neck of a bather (user) in a bathtub. This allows the bather to take a bath while feeling the temperature of the discharged hot and cold water. Prior Art Literature Patent Literature

[0003] Patent Document 1 Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2019-150334 Summary of the Invention Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, when it is attempted to study supplying hot and cold water or the like from an external supply source so that the water discharge temperature can be adjusted in the bathtub water circulation type water discharging apparatus described in the aforementioned Patent Document 1, an unintended change occurs in the flow rate of the supplied hot and cold water due to changes in the water pressure of the hot and cold water to be supplied, which makes the water discharge temperature unstable and may cause discomfort to the bather, and this has become a new problem. In particular, since the hot and cold water discharged from the water discharging apparatus directly hits the bather's neck, shoulders and back, temperature fluctuations in the discharged water are directly perceived by the bather and may cause discomfort.

[0005] Accordingly, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a bathtub apparatus capable of suppressing temporary fluctuations in the temperature of hot and cold water discharged toward a bather in a bathtub that would cause discomfort to the bather. Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a bathtub device for supplying hot water to a bathtub, comprising: a bathtub body for storing hot water; an intake port for taking in hot water from the bathtub body; a discharge port provided above the bathtub body for discharging the hot water taken in from the intake port into the bathtub body; a circulation channel connecting the intake port and the discharge port; a first pump provided in the circulation channel for sending the hot water taken in from the intake port through the circulation channel; a water supply channel connected to the circulation channel for supplying hot water or water from an external source; a storage section provided in the water supply channel for storing the supplied hot water or water, the storage section being formed to separate the flow channel between the upstream and downstream sides of the water supply channel; and a second pump provided downstream of the storage section in the water supply channel for sending the hot water or water in the storage section towards the circulation channel. In this embodiment of the present invention, the bathtub device is configured to adjust the temperature of the discharged hot water by supplying hot water or water from an external source to the circulation channel via a water supply channel, in relation to the hot water that is discharged from the bathtub body through an intake section, a circulation channel, and a discharge section and returns to the bathtub body. In this case, even if the amount of hot water or water supplied from the external source to the water supply channel fluctuates temporarily due to changes in water pressure, etc., the hot water or water is stored in a storage section that separates the flow channels between the upstream and downstream sides, and the hot water or water in the storage section is sent out towards the circulation channel by a second pump, so that the temperature of the discharged hot water is less likely to fluctuate temporarily. Thus, a configuration is realized in which the temperature of the hot water discharged towards the bather in the bathtub can be adjusted to a predetermined temperature, and temporary fluctuations in the temperature of the hot water discharged towards the bather in the bathtub that cause discomfort to the bather can be suppressed.

[0007] In the present invention, preferably, the water supply channel is connected to a negative pressure generating section that generates negative pressure due to the flow of hot and cold water flowing through the circulation channel. In the embodiment of the present invention configured in this way, the water supply channel is connected to a negative pressure generating unit that generates negative pressure due to the flow of hot water in the circulation channel. As a result, the hot water or water in the water supply channel is drawn in by the negative pressure generated by the flow of hot water in the circulation channel, making it difficult for the hot water or water in the water supply channel to flow back into the water supply channel and allowing it to be mixed more efficiently with the flow of hot water in the circulation channel.

[0008] In the present invention, preferably, the circulation channel is equipped with a chamber for drawing in hot and cold water in the middle of the circulation channel, and the water supply channel is connected to a negative pressure generating unit that generates negative pressure in the chamber due to the flow of hot and cold water flowing through the circulation channel. In the embodiment of the present invention configured in this manner, the water supply channel is connected to a negative pressure generating unit that generates negative pressure by the flow of hot water in the circulation channel within the chamber. As a result, the hot water or water in the water supply channel is drawn in by the negative pressure generated by the flow of hot water in the circulation channel, making it difficult for the hot water or water in the water supply channel to flow back into the water supply channel and allowing it to be mixed more efficiently with the flow of hot water in the circulation channel.

[0009] In the present invention, preferably, the water supply channel is connected to a negative pressure generating section in the circulation channel upstream of the first pump, which generates negative pressure due to the flow of hot and cold water flowing through the circulation channel. In the embodiment of the present invention configured in this manner, the water supply channel is connected to a negative pressure generating unit that generates negative pressure by the flow of hot and cold water flowing through the circulation channel upstream of the first pump in the circulation channel. As a result, the hot and cold water or water in the water supply channel is drawn in by the negative pressure generated by the flow of hot and cold water flowing through the circulation channel, making it difficult for the hot and cold water or water in the water supply channel to flow back into the water supply channel and allowing it to be mixed more efficiently with the flow of hot and cold water flowing through the circulation channel.

[0010] In the present invention, preferably, the flow rate of hot water or water flowing out of the storage section is the same as or less than the flow rate of hot water or water flowing into the storage section. In this embodiment of the present invention, the flow rate of hot water or water flowing out of the storage section is the same as or less than the flow rate of hot water or water flowing into the storage section. As a result, the bathtub device can supply hot water or water from the storage section to the circulation channel without depleting the hot water or water in the storage section, the temperature of the hot water supplied from the storage section to the circulation channel is less likely to fluctuate temporarily, and the temperature of the discharged hot water is less likely to fluctuate temporarily. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the bathtub device of the present invention, it is possible to suppress temporary fluctuations in the temperature of the water discharged towards the bather in the bathtub, which can cause discomfort to the bather. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing the entire bathroom with a bathtub device according to one embodiment of the present invention installed. [Figure 2] This is a cross-sectional view along line II-II in Figure 1. [Figure 3] This is a side view showing the water discharge device, circulation channel, and chamber of a bathtub device according to one embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from the side of the short side of the bathtub body. [Figure 4] This is a cross-sectional view along the line IV-IV in Figure 3. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view showing the circulation channel, water supply channel, storage section, etc., located on the back side of the bathtub body of a bathtub device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This figure shows the hot and cold water supply system in a bathtub device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This flowchart shows the operation of a bathtub device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This figure shows the hot water supply system in a modified example of a bathtub device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] Next, a bathtub apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. The embodiments described herein are illustrative and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications, changes, and substitutions are possible within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed, and various modifications, changes, etc., are possible in its form and details without departing from the claims. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the entire bathroom with a bathtub device according to one embodiment of the present invention installed; Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in Figure 1; Figure 3 is a side view showing the water discharge device, circulation channel, and chamber of the bathtub device according to one embodiment of the present invention viewed from the side of the short side of the bathtub body; Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in Figure 3; Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the circulation channel, water supply channel, storage section, etc., located on the back side of the bathtub body of the bathtub device according to one embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 6 is a diagram showing the hot and cold water supply system in the bathtub device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] As shown in Figure 1, the bathtub device 1 of one embodiment of the present invention is a bathtub device installed in a bathroom R that supplies hot water to the bathtub. The bathtub device 1 of one embodiment of the present invention comprises a bathtub body 2, a water intake section (bathtub water intake) 9b for taking in hot water from inside the bathtub body 2, a water discharge device 8 provided above the bathtub body 2 and discharging the hot water taken in from the water intake section 9b into the bathtub body 2, a circulation channel 4 connecting the water intake section 9b and the water discharge device 8, a first pump (circulation pump) 6 provided in the circulation channel 4 for sending the hot water taken in from the water intake section 9b through the circulation channel 4, and an external device connected to the circulation channel 4 to adjust the temperature of the hot water in the circulation channel 4. The system includes a water supply channel (supply pipeline) 10 that supplies hot water or water from a supply source, a storage section (storage tank) 12 provided in the water supply channel 10 for storing the supplied hot water or water, a second pump (pressure pump) 14 provided downstream of the storage section 12 in the water supply channel 10 for sending the hot water or water in the storage section 12 toward the circulation channel 4, a first temperature sensor (discharge temperature sensor) 22 provided in the circulation channel 4 for measuring the temperature of the hot water in the circulation channel 4, and a control unit 16 that controls the first pump 6 and the second pump 14.

[0015] The bathtub apparatus 1 functions as a circulation device that draws hot and cold water in a bathtub body 2 from a water intake portion 9b and circulates the water from a water discharge device 8 toward the inside of the bathtub body 2. A remote controller 18 is attached to a wall surface of a bathroom R, and the bathtub apparatus 1 can be operated by the remote controller 18. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the bathtub apparatus 1 is arranged on one side of the bathroom R so as to be in contact with a wall surface. The remote controller 18 is configured to accept operation input from a bather for temperature adjustment. The remote controller 18 is electrically connected to a control unit 16 and can transmit operation input signals to the control unit 16. Although the remote controller 18 is arranged inside the bathroom R, it may be arranged outside the bathroom R.

[0016] The bathtub body 2 is formed in a substantially rectangular box shape in plan view, and is configured to store hot and cold water therein. In the present embodiment, the bathtub body 2 is arranged such that one long side thereof and the entire two short sides on both sides thereof are in contact with the inner wall surface of the bathroom R. The inner wall surface constituting one short side of the bathtub body 2 is configured as a backrest surface 2a, which is a first inner wall surface formed for a bather to lean against. The water intake portion 9b is formed on a side wall surface 2b on the long side of the bathtub body 2.

[0017] The water discharge device 8 is provided on an upper edge of the bathtub body 2. The water discharge device 8 is provided on an upper portion of the backrest surface 2a of the bathtub body 2, and is configured to discharge hot and cold water toward the inside of the bathtub body 2. In the present embodiment, the water discharge device 8 includes a flat and wide water discharge port 8a extending along the upper edge of the backrest surface 2a, and is configured to discharge hot and cold water toward the neck, shoulders, and back of a bather leaning against the backrest surface 2a. Further, the water discharge device 8 is configured to discharge a part of the hot and cold water drawn in from the water intake portion 9b through the water discharge port 8a. Therefore, the hot and cold water in the bathtub body 2 is sucked from the water intake portion 9b, discharged from the water discharge port 8a, and circulates so as to flow into the bathtub body 2. Furthermore, a part of the hot and cold water drawn in from the water intake portion 9b is also discharged from a bathtub water discharge port 9a provided on the backrest surface 2a of the bathtub body 2.

[0018] Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the spout 8a of the water discharge device 8 is formed to be flat and wide, the hot water discharged from the spout 8a is discharged as a wide, band-shaped water film and lands on the water surface of the hot water stored in the bathtub body 2 at a position away from the backrest surface 2a. In addition, in this embodiment, the water discharge device 8 is configured to allow switching between three levels of pressure applied by the first pump 6: "strong," "medium," and "weak."

[0019] The circulation channel 4 extends from the intake port 9b to the discharge port 8a of the discharge device 8. The bathtub device 1 is configured to draw in hot water from the bathtub body 2 through the intake port 9b provided on the inner wall surface of the bathtub body 2, and to discharge the hot water into the bathtub body 2 through the circulation channel 4 and the discharge port 8a of the discharge device 8. Downstream of the first pump 6, the circulation channel 4 branches into a channel on the side of the bathtub discharge port 9a provided on the backrest surface 2a of the bathtub body 2, and a channel extending toward the chamber 11. Therefore, a portion of the hot water drawn in from the intake port 9b is discharged as bathtub water blow-out through the circulation channel 4 and the bathtub discharge port 9a provided on the backrest surface 2a of the bathtub body 2.

[0020] The circulation channel 4 includes a chamber 11 for drawing in hot water from the bathtub body 2, which is located in the middle of the circulation channel; an injection section side channel (first pipe) 4a where the first pump 6 is installed; an introduction channel (second pipe) 4b connected to the chamber 11 for introducing hot water from the bathtub body 2 into the chamber 11; and a water discharge device side channel (third pipe) 4c extending from the chamber 11 to the water discharge device 8.

[0021] A jet nozzle (nozzle) 20 is provided at the outlet of the injection section side flow path 4a to the chamber 11. The jet nozzle 20 is positioned downstream of the first pump 6 and forms an injection section that injects the hot water supplied from the first pump 6 through the chamber 11. The hot water injected by the jet nozzle 20 is drawn into the chamber 11 by the action of the jet pump, and the flow rate of the hot water drawn in from the chamber 11 is added to the flow rate of the hot water injected from the jet nozzle 20, so that a larger flow rate of hot water is supplied to the discharge device side flow path 4c. The discharge device side flow path 4c extends along the extension of the jet nozzle 20.

[0022] The first pump 6 pressurizes the hot water in the injection section side flow path 4a toward the jet nozzle 20, and injects the hot water supplied from the first pump 6 through the chamber 11. The first pump 6 is configured to have a variable rotation speed for its internal rotating body. Therefore, by changing the rotation speed of the internal rotating body, the first pump 6 can change the set flow rate of the hot water sent downstream.

[0023] Chamber 11 is located below a specified water level W1 in the bathtub body 2 (for example, a specified water level required when using the water discharge device 8), and the chamber 11 is filled with hot water from the bathtub body 2. Chamber 11 forms a storage chamber that can store hot water. Therefore, when the hot water sprayed by the jet nozzle 20 passes through Chamber 11, the hot water in Chamber 11 is drawn into the sprayed hot water, forming a larger flow rate. Chamber 11 is connected to a spray-side flow path 4a and a water discharge device-side flow path 4c on its upper surface opposite to the spray-side flow path 4a. The diameter of the water discharge device-side flow path 4c is larger than the diameter of the jet nozzle 20. Chamber 11 is further connected to an introduction flow path 4b and a water supply flow path 10. Therefore, when the hot water sprayed by the jet nozzle 20 draws in the hot water in Chamber 11, the hot water in the introduction flow path 4b, the hot water in the water supply flow path 10, or water is drawn through Chamber 11 into the water discharge device-side flow path 4c. The chamber 11, jet nozzle 20, and water discharge device side flow path 4c constitute a jet pump unit, and even when attempting to supply a relatively large flow rate of hot water to the water discharge device 8, a relatively large flow rate of hot water can be supplied with a relatively simple configuration and a relatively small structure. Therefore, a bathtub device 1 that can supply a relatively large flow rate of hot water can be formed in the constrained small space between the bathtub body 2 and its casing (apron) 2c in the bathroom R.

[0024] Furthermore, the chamber 11 mixes the hot water drawn in from the water intake 9b and pressurized by the first pump 6 with the hot water or water supplied from the water supply channel 10, and supplies the mixture to the downstream discharge device side channel 4c. When hot water is flowing through the circulation channel 4, the chamber 11 is almost completely filled with hot water.

[0025] The first temperature sensor 22 is installed in the water discharge device side flow path 4c and measures the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water discharge device 8. The first temperature sensor 22 is, for example, a thermistor.

[0026] The water supply channel 10 forms a supply path for hot and cold water to the circulation channel 4. The water supply channel 10 is connected to a negative pressure generating section 11a in the chamber 11, which generates negative pressure due to the flow of hot and cold water in the circulation channel 4. In the chamber 11, the ceiling portion in front of the jet nozzle 20 (the inlet portion of the water discharge device side channel 4c) is a portion that generates positive pressure due to the flow of hot and cold water. On the other hand, in the chamber 11, the ceiling portions other than the ceiling portion in front of the jet nozzle, the side walls, and the bottom portion constitute the negative pressure generating section 11a. The downstream end 10a of the water supply channel 10 connected to the chamber 11 is located in a portion other than the ceiling portion in front of the jet nozzle 20.

[0027] Upstream of the water supply channel 10, a high-temperature water supply pipe (hot water supply pipe) 40a is connected to supply water at a higher temperature than the water stored in the bathtub body 2, and a low-temperature water supply pipe (water supply pipe) 40b is connected to supply water at a lower temperature than the water stored in the bathtub body 2.

[0028] Furthermore, the high-temperature hot water supply pipe 40a and the low-temperature hot water supply pipe 40b are connected to the storage section 12 via a high-temperature side solenoid valve (hot water solenoid valve) 56 and a low-temperature side solenoid valve (cold water solenoid valve) 58, respectively, and the start and stop of the supply of hot water or cold water are controlled by the high-temperature side solenoid valve 56 and the low-temperature side solenoid valve 58. In addition, the amount of hot water or cold water flowing from each supply pipe into the storage section 12 is controlled by a water volume proportional valve 26. Moreover, in this embodiment, the high-temperature hot water supply pipe 40a is supplied with hot water at a temperature higher than the temperature of the hot water stored in the bathtub body 2, for example, hot water at the temperature set in the water heater 52, from the water heater 52. That is, tap water supplied from the water supply 54 as an external supply source is branched at the branching section 54a, with one branch supplied to the water heater 52 and the other flowing directly into the low-temperature hot water supply pipe 40b. The tap water supplied to the water heater 52 is heated to a temperature higher than the temperature of the water stored in the bathtub body 2 and supplied to the high-temperature hot water supply pipe 40a. The high-temperature hot water supply pipe 40a is equipped with a check valve 45 to prevent backflow of hot water or water, and the low-temperature hot water supply pipe 40b is equipped with a check valve 47 to prevent backflow of water.

[0029] As a result, when attempting to raise the temperature of the hot and cold water in the circulation channel 4 or the storage section 12, the high-temperature side solenoid valve 56 opens, and hot and cold water is supplied to the storage section 12 from the water heater 52, which is an external supply source. On the other hand, when attempting to lower the temperature of the hot and cold water in the circulation channel 4 or the storage section 12, the low-temperature side solenoid valve 58 opens, and tap water supplied from the low-temperature hot and cold water supply pipe 40b is supplied to the storage section 12. Alternatively, the high-temperature side solenoid valve 56 and the low-temperature side solenoid valve 58 may open at the same time, and hot and cold water may be mixed and supplied to the storage section 12.

[0030] Furthermore, although the temperature of the water stored in the bathtub body 2 is measured by the first temperature sensor 22, it may also be detected by a bathtub temperature sensor attached to the bathtub body 2. In addition, although the temperature of each type of water may be detected, the temperature of each type of water may also be estimated based on the data obtained from each sensor.

[0031] The temperatures detected by these temperature sensors are sent to the control unit 16, which adjusts the rotation speed of the second pump 14 based on these detected temperatures to discharge hot water at the required temperature from the water discharge device 8.

[0032] The second pump 14 pressurizes and pumps the hot water or water stored in the storage section 12 within the water supply channel 10 toward the chamber 11. The second pump 14 is configured to have a variable rotation speed for its internal rotating body. Therefore, by changing the rotation speed of the internal rotating body, the second pump 14 can change the set flow rate of the hot water or water sent downstream.

[0033] The bathtub device 1 further includes, between the storage section 12 of the water supply channel 10 and the high-temperature side solenoid valve 56 and the low-temperature side solenoid valve 58, a water flow rate sensor 24 for measuring the flow rate of hot water or cold water, a water flow rate proportional valve (flow control valve) 26 for controlling the flow rate of hot water or cold water, a constant flow valve 28 for limiting the maximum flow rate of water through the water channel regardless of water pressure, a second temperature sensor (inlet side temperature sensor) 30 for measuring the temperature of hot water in the water supply channel 10 leading to the storage section 12, a third temperature sensor (storage tank temperature sensor) 32 provided inside the storage section 12, a fourth temperature sensor (outlet side temperature sensor) 34 for measuring the temperature of hot water or cold water flowing downstream from the storage section 12, a water flow rate sensor 36 provided downstream of the second pump 14, a check valve 38 for preventing backflow of hot water or cold water, and a solenoid valve 40 for electromagnetically opening and closing the flow path.

[0034] The water flow sensor 24, water flow proportional valve 26, constant flow valve 28, and second temperature sensor 30 are installed between the storage section 12 of the water supply channel 10 and the confluence section 43 downstream of the high-temperature side solenoid valve 56 and the low-temperature side solenoid valve 58. The confluence section 43 is the part where the high-temperature hot water supply pipe 40a and the low-temperature hot water supply pipe 40b are connected and the flows of both pipes merge.

[0035] The second temperature sensor 30 is installed in the water supply channel 10 upstream of the storage section 12 and measures the temperature of the hot water or water supplied to the storage section 12 from the high-temperature hot water supply pipe 40a and the low-temperature hot water supply pipe 40b. The second temperature sensor 30 is, for example, a thermistor. The third temperature sensor 32 measures the temperature of the hot water or water stored in the storage section 12. The third temperature sensor 32 is, for example, a thermistor.

[0036] The fourth temperature sensor 34, the water flow sensor 36, the check valve 38, and the solenoid valve 40 are installed between the storage section 12 and the chamber 11 of the water supply channel 10. The fourth temperature sensor 34 is configured to measure the temperature of the hot water or water that flows downstream from the storage section 12. The fourth temperature sensor 34 is, for example, a thermistor. The water flow sensor 36 can measure the flow rate of the hot water or water flowing through the water supply channel 10.

[0037] The control unit 16 is electrically connected to the first pump 6, the second pump 14, the remote control 18, the first temperature sensor 22, the water volume sensor 24, the water volume proportional valve 26, the second temperature sensor 30, the third temperature sensor 32, the fourth temperature sensor 34, the water volume sensor 36, the solenoid valve 40, the high-temperature side solenoid valve 56, and the low-temperature side solenoid valve 58. These electrical connections may be made entirely or partially by wireless communication such as infrared communication or other methods. The control unit 16 incorporates a computing device such as a CPU and a storage device such as memory, and can control electrically connected devices based on predetermined control programs stored therein. For example, the control unit 16 stores in its storage device control programs for supplying hot water to the bathtub, such as temperature adjustment preparation control, temperature adjustment control, and other control programs, as described later.

[0038] Next, the storage section 12 will be described in detail. The storage section 12 is formed to separate the flow path between the upstream and downstream sides of the water supply channel 10. The storage section 12 is designed to store hot water or water up to a predetermined water level defined by the float switch 42. Therefore, an upper space 12a is formed in the upper part of the storage section 12, and the storage section 12 is formed such that the downstream end 10b, which forms the water supply channel inlet, is connected to the upper space 12a. On the other hand, the water supply channel outlet 10c is connected to the bottom surface of the storage section 12.

[0039] The storage section 12 is equipped with a float switch 42 and an overflow pipe 44, both of which are located inside the storage section 12. The float switch 42 comprises a stem 42a that forms the rod-shaped shaft portion of the float switch 42, and a float portion (float) 42b that moves up and down along the stem 42a while receiving buoyancy corresponding to the water level fluctuation in the storage section 12. Therefore, when the float portion 42b rises along the stem 42a to the water level detection position in accordance with the water level, the float switch 42 can detect that the hot water or water in the storage section 12 has reached a predetermined upper water level. When the float switch 42 detects that the hot water or water has reached a predetermined upper water level, the water level in the storage section 12 is at least at the predetermined upper water level, and the control unit 16 can determine that a predetermined amount of hot water or water is stored in the storage section 12. The float switch 42 is electrically connected to the control unit 16.

[0040] The overflow pipe 44 is formed to extend vertically within the storage section 12. The overflow pipe 44 opens at the top of the storage section 12 and extends from inside the storage section 12 onto the drainage channel outside the storage section 12. Therefore, the overflow pipe 44 is provided to prevent hot water or water from overflowing from the storage section 12, and when the water level in the storage section 12 exceeds the height of the upper end opening 44a of the overflow pipe 44, the hot water or water flows into the overflow pipe 44 and is drained into the drainage channel.

[0041] Hot water supplied from the high-temperature hot water supply pipe 40a and water supplied from the low-temperature hot water supply pipe 40b are guided to the storage section 12 and temporarily stored in a mixed state within the storage section 12. The storage section 12 is formed to a size that can store a predetermined amount of water. The predetermined amount of water defined as the storage capacity below the upper end opening 44a of the overflow pipe 44 in the storage section 12 is greater than the volume of the chamber 11. For example, the storage section 12 has a storage capacity of a predetermined amount of water in the range of approximately 0.5 L to approximately 3.0 L. Also, the storage section 12 is located above the chamber 11.

[0042] When the control unit 16 attempts to store hot water or water in the storage unit 12, it controls the water flow proportional valve 26 so that the flow rate (flow rate per unit time) of hot water or water flowing downstream from the storage unit 12 is less than the flow rate (flow rate per unit time) of hot water or water flowing into the storage unit 12 from the upstream side. If the amount of water stored in the storage unit 12 increases further than the predetermined water level W0, the overflow pipe 44 is used to maintain a constant water level at the top of the storage unit 12.

[0043] When the control unit 16 attempts to supply hot water or water from the storage unit 12 to the chamber 11 without depleting the storage unit 12, it controls the water flow rate proportional valve 26 so that the flow rate of hot water or water flowing downstream from the storage unit 12 is less than the flow rate of hot water or water flowing into the storage unit 12 from the upstream side of the storage unit 12, or so that the flow rate of hot water or water flowing downstream from the storage unit 12 is approximately the same as the flow rate of hot water or water flowing into the storage unit 12.

[0044] Next, with reference to Figure 7, the operation of the bathtub device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be explained. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the bathtub device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] The flowchart shown in Figure 7 illustrates the control flow by the control unit 16. In Figure 7, S represents each step. First, at the start, the control unit 16 receives input from the bather using the remote control 18 and initiates temperature adjustment preparation control and subsequent temperature adjustment control. The control unit 16 may also initiate temperature adjustment preparation control at its own discretion using a control program stored in its memory. At the start, the solenoid valve 40, the high-temperature side solenoid valve 56, and the low-temperature side solenoid valve 58 are in the closed state.

[0046] Next, in step S1, the control unit 16 determines whether the bathtub device 1 is in the ON state, which means it is in operation. For example, the control unit 16 determines whether the first pump 6 is in the ON state. If the control unit 16 determines that the bathtub device 1 is not in the ON state, it proceeds to S2 in order to start the bathtub device 1. If the control unit 16 determines that the bathtub device 1 is in the ON state, it proceeds to S3 in order to enable the adjustment of the water temperature relatively early.

[0047] In step S2, the control unit 16 activates the bathtub device 1 and turns it ON. As a result, the control unit 16 activates the first pump 6, which draws hot water from the bathtub body 2 through the intake port 9b and pumps it downstream using the first pump 6. When the hot water sprayed by the jet nozzle 20 draws in the hot water in the chamber 11, the hot water in the introduction channel 4b is drawn through the chamber 11 into the discharge device side channel 4c. The hot water that flows into the discharge device side channel 4c is discharged from the discharge device 8 towards the bathtub body 2 and circulated within the bathtub body 2. The hot water discharged from the discharge device 8 can, for example, hit the upper body of a bather sitting with their back against the backrest surface 2a inside the bathtub body 2, such as their neck and shoulders, allowing the bather to enjoy a shoulder bath.

[0048] In step S3, the control unit 16 obtains the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water discharge device 8, i.e., the temperature of the circulating discharged water, using the first temperature sensor 22, and proceeds to S4.

[0049] In step S4, the control unit 16 can estimate the flow rate of hot and cold water flowing through the circulation channel 4 from the rotation speed or output of the rotating body of the first pump 6, for example, the flow rate of hot and cold water in the injection channel 4a and the flow rate of hot and cold water in the discharge channel 4c. The control unit 16 estimates, for example, the flow rate of hot and cold water flowing through the discharge channel 4c, acquires it as the circulation flow rate, and proceeds to S5. The rotation speed or output of the rotating body of the first pump 6 is controlled to be constant thereafter. In S4, the flow rate of hot and cold water in the circulation channel 4 may be measured by providing a water flow sensor in the circulation channel 4.

[0050] In step S5, the control unit 16 prepares the storage unit 12 by storing hot water or water in it. For example, if the control unit 16 wants to adjust the temperature of the hot water to a higher temperature than the temperature of the hot water to be discharged obtained in step S3, it opens the high-temperature solenoid valve 56 and supplies hot water at the temperature set by the water heater 52 into the storage unit 12. Alternatively, if the control unit 16 wants to adjust the temperature of the hot water to a lower temperature than the temperature of the hot water to be discharged obtained in step S3, it opens the low-temperature solenoid valve 58 and supplies water from the water supply 54 into the storage unit 12. The control unit 16 may also adjust the temperature in the storage unit 12 by opening the high-temperature solenoid valve 56 and the low-temperature solenoid valve 58 at the same time or at different times. After storing hot water or water in the storage unit 12, the control unit 16 proceeds to step S6.

[0051] In step S6, the control unit 16 obtains the temperature of the hot water in the storage unit 12 using the third temperature sensor 32 and proceeds to S7. In this way, a predetermined amount [L] of hot water or water is stored in the storage unit 12, and the predetermined amount [L] of hot water or water is set to a predetermined temperature. Therefore, even if the amount of hot water or water supplied from an external supply source to the water supply channel 10 fluctuates due to a temporary fluctuation in the water supply pressure, the temperature of the hot water supplied from the storage unit 12 to the chamber 11 and the circulation channel 4 is less likely to fluctuate temporarily.

[0052] In step S7, the control unit 16 determines whether the storage unit 12 is ready or not. For example, if the float switch 42 has not detected that the water level in the storage unit 12 has reached a predetermined upper level, the control unit 16 determines that the storage unit 12 is not ready and returns to step S5. For example, the control unit 16 determines that the storage unit 12 is ready by detecting that the water level in the storage unit 12 has reached a predetermined upper level using the float switch 42 and by measuring that the temperature of the water in the storage unit 12 has reached a desired temperature using the third temperature sensor 32, and proceeds to step S8.

[0053] In step S8, the control unit 16 starts temperature control of the hot water discharged from the bathtub device 1 into the bathtub, and proceeds to step S9.

[0054] In step S9, the control unit 16 determines whether or not the bather has given an instruction to terminate the temperature control via the remote control 18. The control unit 16 may also execute the instruction to terminate the temperature control based on its own judgment, such as when a predetermined time has elapsed, according to the control program stored in its memory. If the control unit 16 receives an instruction to terminate the temperature control, it proceeds to the end to prevent the wasteful consumption of hot water, etc., for temperature control. If the control unit 16 has not received an instruction to terminate the temperature control, it proceeds to S10 to continue the temperature control of the hot water being dispensed.

[0055] 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 proceeds to S11.

[0056] In step S11, the control unit 16 calculates the water supply flow rate of hot water, etc. to be supplied from the water supply channel 10, for example, from 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 proceeds to S12.

[0057] In step S12, the control unit 16 determines whether the water supply flow rate calculated in S11 is 0 or greater. If the water supply flow rate calculated in S11 is not 0 or greater, the control unit 16 determines that no further water supply, such as hot water, from the water supply channel 10 is necessary, and proceeds to the end to terminate the temperature control. If the water supply flow rate calculated in S11 is 0 or greater, the control unit 16 determines that water supply, such as hot water, from the water supply channel 10 is still necessary, and proceeds to S13.

[0058] In step S13, the control unit 16 opens the solenoid valve 40, and further rotates the second pump 14 at the rotational speed or output of the second pump 14 necessary to achieve the water supply flow rate calculated in S11, supplying water from the water supply channel 10 to the circulation channel 4, and proceeding to S14. At this time, even while water is being supplied to the circulation channel 4, further water may be supplied to the storage section 12 from the high-temperature hot water supply pipe 40a and / or low-temperature hot water supply pipe 40b. Since a predetermined amount [L] of hot water or water is temporarily stored in the storage section 12, even if the amount of hot water or water supplied to the water supply channel 10 from an external source fluctuates due to a temporary fluctuation in the water supply pressure, the temperature of the hot water supplied from the storage section 12 to the chamber 11 and the circulation channel 4 when supplying water to the circulation channel 4 is less likely to fluctuate temporarily.

[0059] In step S14, the control unit 16 returns from the temperature control loop end of S14 to the temperature control loop start of S8 to perform temperature control of the hot water, and continues to perform processing.

[0060] When the control unit 16 proceeds to the end, it closes the solenoid valve 40, closes the high-temperature side solenoid valve 56 and the low-temperature side solenoid valve 58, stops the second pump 14, and terminates the series of control processes.

[0061] In this embodiment of the present invention, the bathtub device 1 is configured to adjust the temperature of the discharged hot water by supplying hot water or water from an external source to the circulation channel 4 via the water intake 9b, circulation channel 4, and discharge device 8, which are discharged from the bathtub body 2 back into the bathtub body 2. In this case, even if the amount of hot water or water supplied from the external source to the water supply channel 10 fluctuates temporarily due to changes in water pressure, etc., the hot water or water is stored in the storage section 12, which separates the flow channels between the upstream and downstream sides, and the hot water or water in the storage section 12 is sent out toward the circulation channel 4 by the second pump 14, so that the temperature of the discharged hot water is less likely to fluctuate temporarily. Thus, a configuration is realized in which the temperature of the hot water discharged toward the bather in the bathtub can be adjusted to a predetermined temperature, and temporary fluctuations in the temperature of the hot water discharged toward the bather in the bathtub can be suppressed, which would cause discomfort to the bather.

[0062] In the present invention, preferably, the water supply channel 10 is connected to a negative pressure generating unit 11a that generates negative pressure due to the flow of hot and cold water flowing through the circulation channel 4. In the embodiment of the present invention configured in this way, the water supply channel 10 is connected to a negative pressure generating unit 11a that generates negative pressure due to the flow of hot water in the circulation channel 4. As a result, the hot water or water in the water supply channel 10 is drawn in by the negative pressure generated by the flow of hot water in the circulation channel 4, making it difficult for the hot water or water in the water supply channel 10 to flow back into the water supply channel 10 and allowing it to be mixed more efficiently with the flow of hot water in the circulation channel 4.

[0063] In this embodiment of the present invention, the water supply channel 10 is connected to a negative pressure generating unit 11a that generates negative pressure by the flow of hot water in the circulation channel 4 in the chamber 11. As a result, the hot water or water in the water supply channel 10 is drawn in by the negative pressure generated by the flow of hot water in the circulation channel 4, making it difficult for the hot water or water in the water supply channel 10 to flow back into the water supply channel 10 and allowing it to be mixed more efficiently with the flow of hot water in the circulation channel 4.

[0064] In this embodiment of the present invention, the water supply channel 10 is connected to a negative pressure generating unit 11a that generates negative pressure by the flow of hot and cold water flowing through the circulation channel 4 upstream of the first pump in the circulation channel 4. As a result, the hot and cold water or water in the water supply channel 10 is drawn in by the negative pressure generated by the flow of hot and cold water flowing through the circulation channel 4, making it difficult for the hot and cold water or water in the water supply channel 10 to flow back into the water supply channel 10 and allowing it to be mixed more efficiently with the flow of hot and cold water flowing through the circulation channel 4.

[0065] In this embodiment of the present invention, the flow rate of hot water or water flowing out of the storage section 12 is the same as or less than the flow rate of hot water or water flowing into the storage section 12. As a result, the bathtub device 1 can supply hot water or water from the storage section 12 to the circulation channel 4 without depleting the hot water or water in the storage section 12, the temperature of the hot water supplied from the storage section 12 to the circulation channel 4 is less likely to fluctuate temporarily, and the temperature of the discharged hot water is less likely to fluctuate temporarily.

[0066] The embodiments for carrying out the present invention are not limited to those described above, and further variations can be applied. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 6, the water supply channel 10 was connected to the chamber 11. However, as a modification, as shown in Figure 8, the downstream end of the water supply channel 10 may be connected to the injection-side channel 4a of the circulation channel 4 upstream of the first pump 6. Thus, the water supply channel 10 may be connected to a negative pressure generating unit 4d in the injection-side channel 4a of the circulation channel 4 upstream of the first pump 6, which generates negative pressure due to the flow of hot and cold water flowing through the injection-side channel 4a of the circulation channel 4. In this case, the negative pressure generating unit 4d is formed on the inner wall of the injection-side channel 4a upstream of the first pump 6. As a result, the hot and cold water or water in the water supply channel 10 is drawn in by the negative pressure generated by the flow of hot and cold water flowing through the injection-side channel 4a, making it less likely for the hot and cold water or water in the water supply channel 10 to flow back into the water supply channel 10 and allowing it to mix more efficiently with the flow of hot and cold water flowing through the injection-side channel 4a.

[0067] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 6, the water supply channel 10 was connected to the chamber 11. However, in another modification, the chamber 11 may be omitted, and the water supply channel 10 may be connected to a negative pressure generating unit 4d that generates negative pressure by the flow of hot and cold water in the injection-side channel 4a of the circulation channel 4. Thus, the water supply channel 10 can be connected to a negative pressure generating unit 4d in any part of the circulation channel 4.

[0068] Furthermore, in embodiments of the present invention, when switching the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water discharge device 8 from a higher temperature to a lower temperature than the hot water in the bathtub body 2, or vice versa, it is necessary to replace the hot water in the storage tank 12 from a higher temperature to a lower temperature. In this case, as another modification, the flow rate of hot water flowing into the storage tank 12 can be reduced 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, thereby reducing the amount of hot water stored in the storage tank 12 at the time of switching. This allows for a rapid switch in the temperature of the hot water discharged from the water discharge device 8. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0069] 1: Bathtub equipment 2: Bathtub body 4: Circulation channel 6: Pump No. 1 9: Water intake section (bathtub water intake) 9b: Water intake part 10: Water supply channel 11: Chamber 11a: Negative pressure generation section 12: Storage section 14: Second pump

Claims

1. A bathtub device that supplies hot water to the bathtub, A bathtub body for storing hot water, The above-mentioned bathtub body includes a water intake section for drawing in hot and cold water, A water outlet is provided above the main body of the bathtub, which discharges the hot water taken in from the water intake towards the bather inside the main body of the bathtub, A circulation channel connecting the above-mentioned water intake section and the above-mentioned water discharge section, A first pump is provided in the above-mentioned circulation channel and sends the hot water taken from the above-mentioned intake section through the above-mentioned circulation channel, A water supply channel connected to the above circulation channel, which supplies hot water or water from an external supply source, A storage section provided in the above-mentioned water supply channel and for storing hot water or water supplied, the storage section is formed to separate the flow channel between the upstream and downstream sides of the above-mentioned water supply channel, The water supply channel includes a second pump provided downstream of the storage section, which sends hot water or water from the storage section toward the circulation channel. The bathtub device is characterized in that the above-mentioned water supply channel is connected to a negative pressure generating section that generates negative pressure due to the flow of hot water through the above-mentioned circulation channel.

2. A bathtub device for supplying hot water to a bathtub, A bathtub body for storing hot water, The above-mentioned bathtub body includes a water intake section for drawing in hot and cold water, A water outlet is provided above the main body of the bathtub, which discharges the hot water taken in from the water intake towards the bather inside the main body of the bathtub, A circulation channel connecting the above-mentioned water intake section and the above-mentioned water discharge section, A first pump is provided in the above-mentioned circulation channel and sends the hot water taken from the above-mentioned intake section through the above-mentioned circulation channel, A water supply channel connected to the above circulation channel, which supplies hot water or water from an external supply source, A storage section provided in the above-mentioned water supply channel and for storing hot water or water supplied, the storage section is formed to separate the flow channel between the upstream and downstream sides of the above-mentioned water supply channel, The water supply channel includes a second pump provided downstream of the storage section, which sends hot water or water from the storage section toward the circulation channel. The bathtub apparatus is characterized in that the circulation channel is equipped with a chamber for drawing in hot water in the middle of the circulation channel, and the water supply channel is connected to a negative pressure generating section that generates negative pressure in the chamber due to the flow of hot water through the circulation channel.

3. A bathtub device for supplying hot water to a bathtub, A bathtub body for storing hot water, The above-mentioned bathtub body includes a water intake section for drawing in hot and cold water, A water outlet is provided above the main body of the bathtub, which discharges the hot water taken in from the water intake towards the bather inside the main body of the bathtub, A circulation channel connecting the above-mentioned water intake section and the above-mentioned water discharge section, A first pump is provided in the above-mentioned circulation channel and sends the hot water taken from the above-mentioned intake section through the above-mentioned circulation channel, A water supply channel connected to the above circulation channel, which supplies hot water or water from an external supply source, A storage section provided in the above-mentioned water supply channel and for storing hot water or water supplied, the storage section is formed to separate the flow channel between the upstream and downstream sides of the above-mentioned water supply channel, The water supply channel includes a second pump provided downstream of the storage section, which sends hot water or water from the storage section toward the circulation channel. The bathtub device is characterized in that the water supply channel is connected to a negative pressure generating section in the circulation channel upstream of the first pump, which generates negative pressure due to the flow of hot water through the circulation channel.

4. The bathtub device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the flow rate of hot water or water flowing out of the storage section is the same as or less than the flow rate of hot water or water flowing into the storage section.

Images