Cartridges, water dispensing devices, water purifiers, and microbubble generators

Abstract

To provide a structure that can easily achieve the discharge of water containing fine bubbles. [Solution] The cartridge 100 is removably housed in the cartridge housing section 34 of the water purifier. The cartridge 100 has a purification material 106 for purifying water and a microbubble generating section 102 positioned downstream of the purification material 106, which is capable of mixing microbubbles into the purified water that has passed through the purification material 106. Within the water purifier, a raw water channel GW is formed in which raw water flows downstream without passing through the purification material 106, and a purified water channel JW is formed in which raw water flows downstream after passing through the purification material 106. The purification material 106 and the microbubble generating section 102 are integrated. The cartridge 100 is replaceable as a single unit. The cartridge 100 does not necessarily have a purification material 106.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cartridge capable of generating fine bubbles, and also relates to a water discharge device, a water purifier, and a fine bubble generator.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, faucets capable of discharging water containing fine bubbles are known as described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2025-9283 and Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2024-12921. In the faucet disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2025-9283, purified water containing fine bubbles can be discharged in water discharge shapes including a straight shape and a shower shape.

Prior Art Literature

Patent Literature

[0003]

Patent Literature 1

Patent Literature 2

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In Patent Literature 1 and Patent Literature 2, the water purifier (faucet) has a complicated structure for generating fine bubbles. It is preferable to be able to discharge water containing fine bubbles more simply. For example, it is preferable that the function of discharging water containing fine bubbles can be introduced without replacing or changing the design of the water purifier (faucet). One of the objects of the present disclosure is to provide a structure that can easily realize discharge of water containing fine bubbles.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0005] In one embodiment, the cartridge of the present disclosure is a cartridge that is replaceably housed in the cartridge housing of a water purifier. The cartridge has a purification material for purifying water and a microbubble generating unit located downstream of the purification material and capable of mixing microbubbles into the purified water that has permeated through the purification material. Within the water purifier, a raw water channel is formed in which raw water flows downstream without permeating through the purification material, and a purified water channel is formed in which raw water flows downstream after permeating through the purification material. The purification material and the microbubble generating unit are integral and replaceable as a single unit.

[0006] In other embodiments, the cartridge of the present disclosure is a cartridge that is replaceably housed in the cartridge housing of a water dispensing device. The cartridge has a microbubble generating section that generates microbubbles in the water passing through it, a raw water introduction section located upstream of the microbubble generating section for introducing raw water into the cartridge, and a connecting end located downstream of the microbubble generating section for connecting the cartridge to the main body of the water dispensing device. The raw water introduced from the raw water introduction section is configured to pass through the microbubble generating section and be discharged from the connecting end. The raw water introduction section, the microbubble generating section, and the connecting end are integral and replaceable as a whole.

[0007] In other embodiments, the cartridge of the present disclosure is a cartridge that is replaceably housed in a cartridge housing of a water dispensing device. The cartridge has a microbubble generating section that generates microbubbles in the water passing through it. Within the water dispensing device, a first channel is formed through which raw water flows downstream without passing inside the cartridge, and a second channel is formed through which raw water flows downstream after passing through the microbubble generating section of the cartridge. Discharging the water that has passed through the second channel makes it possible to discharge water containing microbubbles.

[0008] In another embodiment, the water purifier of the present disclosure comprises a cartridge housing and a cartridge that is replaceably housed in the cartridge housing. The cartridge comprises a purifying material for purifying water and a microbubble generating unit for generating microbubbles. In the cartridge, the purifying material and the microbubble generating unit are integrated.

[0009] In other embodiments, the water purifier of the present disclosure comprises a cartridge housing and a cartridge that is replaceably housed in the cartridge housing. The cartridge is replaced from a water purification cartridge equipped with a water purification material for purifying water to a microbubble generating cartridge equipped with a microbubble generating unit for generating microbubbles.

[0010] In other embodiments, the microbubble generator of the present disclosure comprises a purifying material for purifying water and a microbubble generating unit for generating microbubbles. The purifying material and the microbubble generating unit are integrated. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] In one respect, a structure that can easily realize the discharge of water containing microbubbles may be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a side view of a faucet device (water discharge device) equipped with a cartridge according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a side view, the same as Figure 1. In Figure 2, the built-in cartridge is indicated by a dashed line. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view along line AA in Figure 2. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the cartridge according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5(a) is a side view of the cartridge shown in Figure 4, and Figure 5(b) is a cross-sectional view of the same cartridge. [Figure 6]Fig. 6(a) is a front view of the cartridge of Fig. 4, Fig. 6(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in Fig. 5(b), and Fig. 6(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in Fig. 5(b). [Figure 7] Fig. 7 is a partially sectional perspective view of the cartridge of Fig. 4. [Figure 8] Fig. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the cartridge of Fig. 4. [Figure 9] Fig. 9(a) is a perspective view of a first member and a second member that constitute a swirling flow forming portion, Fig. 9(b) is a plan view of the first member, Fig. 9(c) is a plan view of the second member, Fig. 9(d) is a plan view of a member obtained by combining the first member and the second member, Fig. 9(e) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in Fig. 9(d), and Fig. 9(f) is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in Fig. 9(e). [Figure 10] Fig. 10 is the same side view as Fig. 1, with a portion shown as a cross-section. [Figure 11] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a cartridge according to a second embodiment. [Figure 12] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge of Fig. 11. [Figure 13] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a cartridge according to a third embodiment. [Figure 14] Fig. 14(a) is a side view of the cartridge of Fig. 13, and Fig. 14(b) is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge. [Figure 15] Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a cartridge according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 16] Fig. 16(a) is a side view of the cartridge of Fig. 15, and Fig. 16(b) is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge. [Figure 17] Fig. 17 is a perspective view of a cartridge according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 18] Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge of Fig. 17. [Figure 19] Fig. 19(a) is a side view of a cartridge according to a sixth embodiment, and Fig. 19(b) is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge. [Figure 20]Fig. 20 is a perspective view of a water discharge device provided with a cartridge according to a seventh embodiment. This water discharge device is a faucet-direct-connected water purifier. [Figure 21] Fig. 21 is a side view of a water discharge device provided with a cartridge according to an eighth embodiment. This water discharge device is a shower head for a bathroom. MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with appropriate reference to the drawings. In each embodiment, identical or common elements are denoted by the same reference symbols, and redundant descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0014] Unless otherwise specifically stated, in the present specification, the term "circferential direction" means the circumferential direction of the cartridge. Unless otherwise specifically stated, in the present specification, the term "radial direction" means the radial direction of the cartridge. Unless otherwise specifically stated, in the present specification, the term "axial direction" means the direction of the center line of the cartridge.

[0015] In the present specification, the term "water purifier" is used. In a "water purifier", the water purification function is provided by a water purification cartridge. Meanwhile, the following embodiments include a cartridge that does not have a water purification function. Therefore, when a water purification cartridge is replaced with a cartridge that does not have a water purification function, the designation "water purifier" may be problematic. In the present specification, a device in which a water purification cartridge can be installed may be referred to as a "water purifier" regardless of whether the cartridge has a water purification function or not. For example, an existing water purifier in which a water purification cartridge is installed may be referred to as a "water purifier" even if the water purification cartridge is replaced with a cartridge that does not have a water purification function. Meanwhile, the term "water discharge device" is used as a generic concept that does not depend on whether the cartridge has a water purification function or not. This "water discharge device" is a concept that includes water purifiers, faucet devices that do not have a water purification function, and the like.

[0016] Figure 1 is a side view of a faucet device 10 including the cartridge 100 of the first embodiment. Figure 2 is also a side view of the faucet device 10, with the built-in cartridge 100 indicated by a dashed line. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view along line AA in Figure 2. The cross-sectional view in Figure 3 shows the state in which the cartridge 100 is not placed in the cartridge housing 34. The faucet device 10 is an example of a water dispensing device. As described later, the cartridge 100 is an example of a water purification cartridge having a water purification function. The faucet device 10 equipped with this cartridge 100 is a water purifier (faucet-integrated water purifier).

[0017] The faucet device 10 includes a faucet base 12, a handle 14, a water outlet head 16, an inlet pipe 18 (hot water inlet pipe, cold water inlet pipe), and a discharge pipe 22. The water outlet head 16 has a head section 24 and a spout section 26. The water outlet head 16 constitutes a faucet. The head section 24 has a water outlet hole 28, a flow path switching operation section 30, and a water pattern switching operation section 32. Water is discharged to the outside from the water outlet hole 28. Each time the flow path switching operation section 30 is operated (pressed), the discharge of purified water and the discharge of raw water are switched.

[0018] The water pattern switching operation unit 32 is a lever. By operating (rotating) the water pattern switching operation unit 32, the water pattern can be switched. In this embodiment, it is possible to switch between the first water pattern (shower pattern) and the second water pattern (straight pattern). The water outlet 28 has a first water outlet (shower hole) and a second water outlet (straight hole). In the first water pattern (shower pattern), water is discharged from the first water outlet (shower hole). In the second water pattern (straight pattern), water is discharged from the second water outlet (straight hole).

[0019] As shown in Figure 2, the water outlet head 16 has a built-in cartridge 100. The cartridge 100 is built into the spout section 26. As shown in Figure 3, the spout section 26 has a cartridge housing section 34. The cartridge housing section 34 forms a space capable of housing the cartridge 100. The cartridge 100 is removably housed in the cartridge housing section 34. The head section 24 is detachable from the spout section 26. By removing the head section 24 from the spout section 26, the boundary between the spout section 26 and the head section 24 opens up, allowing the cartridge 100 to be replaced.

[0020] Figure 3 also shows a cartridge 100 that is replaceably housed in the cartridge housing 34, and a cartridge 900 that is replaceably housed in the cartridge housing 34. Cartridge 900 is a conventional water purification cartridge that has a water purification function (purification material 106) but does not have a microbubble generating unit. Cartridge 100 has specifications that are compatible with cartridge 900. Cartridge 100 has the same external shape and dimensions as cartridge 900. The faucet device 10 in which cartridge 900 can be installed in the cartridge housing 34 can be an existing or pre-existing faucet device. By simply replacing cartridge 900 with cartridge 100, the function of generating microbubbles can be added to an existing faucet device. In the water purifier of the faucet device 10, the cartridge can be replaced from a water purification cartridge 900 equipped with a purification material that purifies water to a microbubble generating cartridge 100 equipped with a microbubble generating unit that generates microbubbles. Furthermore, as shown in the fourth to sixth embodiments described later, the microbubble generating cartridge does not need to have a purifying material.

[0021] The faucet device 10 is a hot and cold water mixing faucet. The faucet device 10 is a single-lever type hot and cold water mixing faucet. The temperature of the water can be adjusted by rotating the handle 14 left and right. The amount of water can be adjusted by rotating the handle 14 up and down. The faucet base 12 has a valve mechanism that allows for temperature and water flow rate adjustment. The faucet device 10 can be used, for example, in a kitchen sink or washbasin.

[0022] The head unit 24 (discharge head 16) has a flow path switching mechanism 40. The flow path switching mechanism 40 has the aforementioned flow path switching operation unit 30 and a flow path switching valve 42. The flow path switching operation unit 30 and the flow path switching valve 42 are interlocked with each other. When the flow path switching operation unit 30 is operated, the flow path switching mechanism 40 switches between discharging raw water and discharging purified water.

[0023] The flow path switching valve 42 includes a raw water valve (first valve) 42a that opens and closes the raw water flow path GW (first flow path W1) and a purified water valve (second valve) 42b that opens and closes the purified water flow path JW (second flow path W2). When the raw water valve 42a opens and the purified water valve 42b closes, raw water is discharged. When the raw water valve 42a closes and the purified water valve 42b opens, purified water is discharged. In this embodiment, the flow path switching valve 42 is a ball valve. The raw water valve 42a is a first ball valve. The purified water valve 42b is a second ball valve.

[0024] The flow path switching mechanism 40 has an alternate-operating thrust lock mechanism 44. The flow path switching mechanism 40 is operated by the flow path switching operation unit 30. The flow path switching operation unit 30 is configured as a push button. The flow path switching mechanism 40 performs alternate operation. Each time the flow path switching operation unit 30 is pressed, the flow is switched between raw water discharge and purified water discharge. When the flow path switching operation unit 30 is pressed in the protruding position, the flow path switching operation unit 30 moves to the retracted position via the pushed-in position. The pushed-in position is a position that is further retracted than the retracted position. When the flow path switching operation unit 30 is pressed in the retracted position, the flow path switching operation unit 30 moves to the protruding position via the pushed-in position. The pushed-in position is passed through due to the overstroke during switching. In this embodiment, raw water is discharged when the flow path switching operation unit 30 is in the protruding position, and purified water is discharged when the flow path switching operation unit 30 is in the retracted position.

[0025] When the cartridge 100 is placed in the cartridge housing 34, a raw water channel GW is formed between the inner surface 26a of the spout section 26 and the outer surface of the cartridge 100. Furthermore, as described later, if the cartridge 100 has a water purification function, a purified water channel JW is formed inside the cartridge 100. If the cartridge 100 has a water purification function, the water outlet head 16 with the cartridge 100 built into the spout section 26 constitutes a faucet-integrated water purifier. The faucet device 10 may include a faucet-integrated water purifier. This faucet-integrated water purifier is a spout-in type in which the cartridge 100 is placed in the spout section 26. Note that, as described later, the cartridge 100 does not have to have a water purification function. In this case, the faucet device 10 does not have a water purification function.

[0026] Figure 4 is a perspective view of cartridge 100. Figure 5(a) is a side view of cartridge 100, and Figure 5(b) is a cross-sectional view of cartridge 100 along the axial direction. Figure 6(a) is a front view of cartridge 100 viewed from the tip side (downstream side), Figure 6(b) is a cross-sectional view along line AA in Figure 5(b), and Figure 6(c) is a cross-sectional view along line BB in Figure 5(b). Figure 7 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of cartridge 100. Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of cartridge 100.

[0027] The cartridge 100 has a microbubble generating unit 102. The microbubble generating unit 102 generates microbubbles in the water passing through it. As the water passes through the microbubble generating unit 102, the concentration of microbubbles in the water increases.

[0028] Cartridge 100 has a raw water inlet 104 for introducing raw water into the cartridge 100. Raw water is introduced into the cartridge 100 from the raw water inlet 104. The raw water inlet 104 is located on the rear end (upstream side) of the microbubble generation unit 102. This rear end side refers to the rear end side of cartridge 100. Inside cartridge 100, the water introduced from the raw water inlet 104 flows to the microbubble generation unit 102.

[0029] The cartridge 100 has a water purification material 106. In this embodiment, the water purification material 106 purifies the water by allowing it to pass through. In this embodiment, the water purification material 106 also serves as the raw water introduction section 104. Water (raw water) permeates into the water purification material 106 from its outer surface 106a. As the water permeates through the water purification material 106, it is purified and introduced into the cartridge 100. The purified water that has passed through the water purification material 106 flows to the microbubble generation section 102.

[0030] The purification material 106 has an outer surface 106a and an inner surface 106b. The outer surface 106a of the purification material 106 is a cylindrical surface. The inner surface 106b of the purification material 106 is a cylindrical surface. A cavity 108 is formed inside the purification material 106. The cavity 108 is formed inside the inner surface 106b. The cavity 108 constitutes a purified water channel JW through which purified water that has permeated the purification material 106 flows. Water (raw water) introduced from the outer surface 106a of the purification material 106 is purified by permeating the purification material 106 and reaches the purified water channel JW (cavity 108). Inside the purification material 106, a channel forming member 109 is provided that supports the inner surface 106b and forms the cavity 108. The channel forming member 109 extends along the centerline of the cartridge 100.

[0031] The cartridge 100 has a connecting end 110. When the cartridge 100 is placed in the cartridge housing 34, the connecting end 110 is connected to the main body side of the faucet device 10 (water purifier). The main body side (discharge head 16) of the faucet device 10 is provided with a connecting receiving part 8 that is watertightly connected to the connecting end 110 (see Figure 3). The connecting end 110 has an outlet 111 for the water that has passed through the cartridge 100 to be discharged from the cartridge 100. The connecting end 110 is located on the tip side (downstream side) of the microbubble generating part 102. This tip side refers to the tip side of the cartridge 100.

[0032] Overall, the cartridge 100 is cylindrical. The cartridge 100 has a tip Tp and a rear end Bt. When the cartridge 100 is placed in the cartridge housing 34, the tip Tp is on the downstream side and the rear end Bt is on the upstream side. The tip Tp is formed by a connecting end 110. The rear end Bt is formed by a rear end closing member 112 that seals the rear end surface of the purifying material 106 so that it is impermeable to water.

[0033] The cartridge 100 is a single, integrated unit. This cartridge 100 has a microbubble generating unit 102, a raw water inlet 104, and a connecting end 110. The microbubble generating unit 102, the raw water inlet 104, and the connecting end 110 are integrated. The raw water inlet 104 is composed of a purification material 106. This cartridge 100 has a microbubble generating unit 102 and a purification material 106. The microbubble generating unit 102 and the purification material 106 are integrated. The cartridge 100 is replaceable as a single unit. The cartridge 100 is a microbubble generator in which a purification material 106 for purifying water and a microbubble generating unit 102 for generating microbubbles are integrated.

[0034] The microbubble generation section 102 has an orifice structure section 120. The orifice structure section 120 generates microbubbles through the cavitation effect. As shown in Figure 5(b), the orifice structure section 120 has an orifice hole 122 that locally reduces the flow path area. The cavitation effect occurs when the water flow passes through the orifice hole 122. A negative pressure region is created near the outlet of the orifice hole 122, and microbubbles are generated from dissolved air in the water. The orifice structure section 120 generates microbubbles without taking in air from the outside.

[0035] As shown in the enlarged view of Figure 7, Figure 6(b), and Figure 6(c), the orifice structure 120 has a first throttling section 124 that reduces the flow area as it approaches the orifice hole 122, and a second throttling section 126 that is connected to the first throttling section 124 downstream. The second throttling section 126 reaches the orifice hole 122 while reducing the flow area as it approaches the orifice hole 122. Furthermore, the orifice structure 120 has a first expansion section 128 that extends downstream from the orifice hole 122 and increases the flow area as it moves away from the orifice hole 122, and a second expansion section 130 that is connected to the first expansion section 128 downstream and increases the flow area as it moves away from the orifice hole 122.

[0036] The orifice hole 122 is formed by the gap between a core portion 132, which is provided along the centerline of the orifice structure 120 (cartridge 100), and the surrounding flow path forming surface 133. The core portion 132 is held by a plurality (four) of ribs 134 that connect the flow path forming surface 133 and the core portion 132. The ribs 134 partition the flow path between the core portion 132 and the flow path forming surface 133. The core portion 132 is provided in the region from the second constriction portion 126 to the first expansion portion 128. The core portion 132 has a top portion 132a that constitutes the orifice hole 122, an upstream portion 132b formed between the upstream end of the core portion 132 and the top portion 132a, and a downstream portion 132c formed between the top portion 132a and the downstream end of the core portion 132. The upstream portion 132b widens as it approaches the top portion 132a, contributing to the formation of the second constricted portion 126. The downstream portion 132c narrows as it approaches the rear end of the core portion 132, contributing to the formation of the first expanded portion 128. The flow path forming surface 133 has a claw portion 136 that protrudes toward the top portion 132a at a position opposite the top portion 132a. An orifice hole 122 is formed between the top portion 132a and the claw portion 136.

[0037] As shown in Figures 5(b) and 7, the orifice structure 120 has a main body member 140 and an inner member 142 positioned inside the main body member 140. As shown in Figure 5(b), the main body member 140 has an outer wall portion 140a that forms part of the outer circumferential surface of the cartridge 100, and an orifice forming portion 140b including the aforementioned second expansion portion 130, core portion 132, and flow path forming surface 133. The inner member 142 has the aforementioned first throttling portion 124 and a receiving portion 142a that extends downstream from the first throttling portion 124 and receives the orifice forming portion 140b. The main body member 140 and the inner member 142 are assembled as the orifice forming portion 140b is inserted into the receiving portion 142a.

[0038] The microbubble generation section 102 has a swirling flow forming section 146. By forming a swirling flow, microbubbles can be generated. In this embodiment, the swirling flow forming section 146 generates microbubbles without taking in air from the outside. Cavitation occurs due to the swirling flow, and microbubbles are generated from dissolved air in the water. The swirling flow forming section 146 generates microbubbles without taking in outside air. The swirling flow forming section 146 is located downstream of the orifice structure section 120. Water that has passed through the orifice structure section 120 flows into the swirling flow forming section 146.

[0039] Thus, both the orifice structure 120 and the swirling flow forming section 146 generate microbubbles without taking in outside air. The microbubble generating section 102 also generates microbubbles without taking in outside air. However, from the viewpoint of increasing the number of microbubbles, the microbubble generating section 102 may have an air intake mechanism to take in air.

[0040] As shown in Figure 8, the swirling flow forming section 146 is formed by a first member 148 and a second member 150. The first member 148 is positioned upstream of the second member 150. Note that the swirling flow forming section 146 may also be formed from a single member.

[0041] Figure 9(a) is a perspective view of the first member 148 and the second member 150 that constitute the swirling flow forming section 146. Figure 9(b) is a plan view of the first member 148. In Figure 9(a), the upstream side of the first member 148 is visible, whereas in Figure 9(b), the downstream side of the first member 148 is shown. Figure 9(c) is a plan view of the second member 150. Similar to Figure 9(a), Figure 9(c) shows the upstream side of the second member 150. Figure 9(d) is a plan view of the member formed by superimposing the first member 148 and the second member 150. In Figure 9(d), the downstream side is shown. Figure 9(e) is a cross-sectional view along line AA in Figure 9(d). Figure 9(f) is a cross-sectional view along line BB in Figure 9(e).

[0042] The swirling flow forming section 146 has an inlet 152 and an outlet 154. Water enters the swirling flow forming section 146 from the inlet 152. This water forms a swirling flow, generates fine bubbles, and then exits the swirling flow forming section 146 from the outlet 154. The inlet 152 is provided on the first member 148. Multiple inlets 152 are provided. The outlet 154 is provided on the second member 150. Multiple outlets 154 are provided.

[0043] The swirling flow forming section 146 has swirling flow forming holes 158. The swirling flow forming holes 158 are holes with a circular cross-section. The swirling flow forming holes 158 are provided in the second member 150. The swirling flow forming holes 158 penetrate the second member 150. Multiple (seven) swirling flow forming holes 158 are provided.

[0044] The swirling flow forming section 146 has an inlet passage 160 that supplies water flow to the swirling flow forming hole 158. The inlet passage 160 is provided as a groove on the upstream surface of the second member 150. The inlet passage 160 supplies water flow to a position upstream of the swirling flow forming hole 158. The inlet passage 160 is in communication with the inlet 152. Water that enters the inlet 152 flows through the inlet passage 160 and exits the inlet passage 160 into the swirling flow forming hole 158. Each of the multiple swirling flow forming holes 158 is provided with an inlet passage 160.

[0045] As shown in the plan view of Figure 9(c), multiple (two) inlet passages 160 are provided for each swirling flow forming hole 158. The orientation of each inlet passage 160 is aligned with the direction of the swirling flow SF. All (two) inlet passages 160 connected to a single swirling flow forming hole 158 generate a swirling flow with the same rotational direction within the swirling flow forming hole 158.

[0046] The swirling flow forming section 146 has a core body 162 provided inside the swirling flow forming hole 158. The core body 162 extends along the centerline of the swirling flow forming hole 158. The core body 162 forms an annular flow channel 164 between itself and the inner surface of the swirling flow forming hole 158 (see enlarged view in Figure 9(f)). In the axial direction of the swirling flow forming hole 158, the outlet of the inflow passage 160 formed in the swirling flow forming hole 158 is located in an axial position that overlaps with the core body 162. The water flow exiting the swirling flow forming hole 158 is configured to strike the core body 162. The water flow exiting the swirling flow forming hole 158 flows into the annular flow channel 164. The flow channel area of ​​the annular flow channel 164 is narrow. The flow velocity of the swirling flow SF is increased in the annular flow channel 164.

[0047] The core portion 162 has a taper that decreases in diameter towards the downstream side. The water flow in the annular channel 164 flows downstream as a spiral flow (see enlarged view in Figure 9(e)).

[0048] The core portion 162 is provided as a projection on the first member 148 (see enlarged view in Figure 8). Multiple projections are provided. The same number of projections are provided as there are swirling flow forming holes 158, at positions corresponding to the swirling flow forming holes 158. One projection (core portion 162) is provided for each swirling flow forming hole 158. By combining (overlapping) the first member 148 and the second member 150, the core portion 162, which is a projection, is inserted into the swirling flow forming hole 158.

[0049] Thus, the swirling flow forming section 146 has a swirling flow forming hole 158 extending from the upstream side to the downstream side, and a core body section 162 positioned at the center of the swirling flow forming hole 158 and decreasing in diameter towards the downstream side. With this configuration, a high-speed swirling flow SF can be formed, and the swirling flow SF can be efficiently converted into a helical flow.

[0050] From the viewpoint of increasing the concentration of ultrafine bubbles, the number of swirling flow forming holes 158 is preferably 4 or more, more preferably 5 or more, and even more preferably 6 or more. However, excessively increasing the number of swirling flow forming holes 158 does not improve the ultrafine bubble concentration and increases manufacturing costs, including mold costs. From this viewpoint, the number of swirling flow forming holes 158 can be 16 or less, even 14 or less, and even 12 or less.

[0051] Thus, in this embodiment, the microbubble generation section 102 has both an orifice structure section 120 and a swirling flow formation section 146. As will be described later, the microbubble generation section 102 may have only one of the orifice structure section 120 and the swirling flow formation section 146.

[0052] As described above, the connecting end 110 has an outlet 111. The water containing fine bubbles processed in the cartridge 100 is discharged to the outside of the cartridge 100 from the outlet 111. As shown in Figure 6(a), the outlet 111 extends along the circumferential direction of the cartridge 100. The connecting end 110 has a partition portion 166 that separates the outlet 111. The partition portions 166 are provided at multiple locations (four locations) in the circumferential direction of the cartridge 100.

[0053] As shown in Figure 5(a), the connecting end 110 has a small-diameter portion 168 provided downstream of the outlet 111 and a large-diameter portion 170 provided upstream of the outlet 111. A first sealing member (O-ring) 172 is placed in the small-diameter portion 168. A second sealing member (O-ring) 174 is placed in the large-diameter portion 170. The outer diameter of the first sealing member 172 is smaller than the outer diameter of the second sealing member 174. These sealing members 172 and 174 separate the raw water flow path GW (first flow path W1) and the purified water flow path JW (second flow path W2).

[0054] The cartridge 100 has an antibacterial member 176. In this embodiment, the antibacterial member 176 is made of ceramic. The antibacterial member 176 is ball-shaped. This antibacterial member 176 is also called an antibacterial ceramic ball. The antibacterial member 176 has an antibacterial effect that suppresses the growth of bacteria. The antibacterial member 176 suppresses the growth of bacteria in the stagnant water that remains in the cartridge housing 34. As shown in Figure 8, the cartridge 100 has a holding part 178 that holds the antibacterial member 176. The antibacterial member 176 is located inside the connecting end 110. The antibacterial member 176 is located downstream of the microbubble generating part 102.

[0055] Figure 10 is a partially enlarged view of the side view of Figure 1. In Figure 10, the portion corresponding to the cartridge housing 34 is shown in cross-section. When the cartridge 100 is placed in the cartridge housing 34, a raw water channel GW is formed inside the water outlet head 16 (spout portion 26) through which raw water flows downstream without passing through the purification material 106, and a purified water channel JW is formed through which raw water flows downstream after passing through the purification material 106. The raw water channel GW is formed on the outside of the cartridge 100. The raw water channel GW is formed between the outer surface (outer peripheral surface) of the cartridge 100 and the wall surface (inner surface 26a of the spout portion 26) that defines the cartridge housing 34. The purified water channel JW is formed inside the cartridge 100.

[0056] As will be explained later, the cartridge does not need to have a water purification function. In this case, since purified water does not flow, the expression "purified water flow path JW" is not appropriate. In this specification, the terms "first flow path" and "second flow path" are used to distinguish between the flow paths. When the cartridge 100 is placed in the cartridge housing 34, a first flow path W1 is formed inside the water outlet head 16 (spout portion 26) through which water flows downstream without passing through the inside of the cartridge 100, and a second flow path W2 is formed through which water flows downstream after passing through the microbubble generating portion 102 of the cartridge 100. The first flow path W1 is formed on the outside of the cartridge 100. The first flow path W1 is formed between the outer surface (outer peripheral surface) of the cartridge 100 and the wall surface (inner surface 26a of the spout portion 26) that defines the cartridge housing 34. The second flow path W2 is formed inside the cartridge 100. Untreated water that has not been treated by the cartridge 100 flows through the first flow path W1. The treated water, processed by cartridge 100, flows through the second channel W2. This treated water contains fine bubbles.

[0057] As shown in Figure 5(b), the cartridge 100 has an impact section 180 to which the microbubble-containing water that has passed through the microbubble generation section 102 collides. The water flow of microbubble-containing water that has left the microbubble generation section 102 (swirling flow forming section 146) collides with the impact section 180. The microbubble-containing water that collides with the impact section 180 changes the direction of the water flow and exits the cartridge 100 from the outlet 111. The impact section 180 is provided at the connecting end 110. The impact section 180 is provided at the small diameter section 168. The impact section 180 is provided at a position that intersects the centerline of the cartridge 100. As shown in Figure 6(a), the impact section 180 extends in the radial direction. The impact section 180 is provided at a position where the water flow that has left the microbubble generation section 102 strikes it.

[0058] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the cartridge 200 according to the second embodiment. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge 200.

[0059] The external shape and dimensions of cartridge 200 may be the same as those of cartridge 100 in the first embodiment. Cartridge 200 is interchangeable with cartridge 100. Cartridge 200 is removably housed in the cartridge housing section 34 of the faucet device 10 described above.

[0060] The cartridge 200 has a microbubble generating unit 102. The microbubble generating unit 102 generates microbubbles in the water passing through it. As the water passes through the microbubble generating unit 102, the concentration of microbubbles in the water increases.

[0061] Cartridge 200 has a raw water inlet 104 for introducing raw water into the cartridge 200. Raw water is introduced into the cartridge 200 from the raw water inlet 104. The raw water inlet 104 is located upstream of the microbubble generation unit 102. Inside the cartridge 200, the water introduced from the raw water inlet 104 flows to the microbubble generation unit 102.

[0062] The cartridge 200 has a water purification material 106. In this embodiment, the water purification material 106 purifies the water by allowing water to pass through it. In this embodiment, the water purification material 106 also serves as the raw water introduction section 104. Water (raw water) permeates into the water purification material 106 from its outer surface 106a. As the water permeates through the water purification material 106, it is purified and introduced into the cartridge 200. The purified water that has passed through the water purification material 106 flows to the microbubble generation section 102. The structure of the water purification material 106 is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0063] The cartridge 200 has a connecting end 110. When the cartridge 200 is placed in the cartridge housing 34, the connecting end 110 is connected to the main body side of the faucet device 10 (water purifier). The structure of the connecting end 110 is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0064] The cartridge 200 is a single, integrated unit. This cartridge 200 has a microbubble generating unit 102, a raw water inlet 104, and a connecting end 110. The microbubble generating unit 102, the raw water inlet 104, and the connecting end 110 are integrated. The raw water inlet 104 is composed of a purification material 106. This cartridge 200 has a microbubble generating unit 102 and a purification material 106. The microbubble generating unit 102 and the purification material 106 are integrated. The cartridge 200 is replaceable as a single unit.

[0065] The microbubble generating section 102 has an orifice structure section 120. The structure of the orifice structure section 120 is the same as in the first embodiment. The microbubble generating section 102 does not have a swirling flow forming section 146. In the cartridge 200, only the orifice structure section 120 generates microbubbles.

[0066] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the cartridge 300 according to the third embodiment. Figure 14(a) is a side view of the cartridge 300, and Figure 14(b) is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge 300.

[0067] The external shape and dimensions of cartridge 300 may be the same as those of cartridge 100 in the first embodiment. Cartridge 300 is interchangeable with cartridge 100. Cartridge 300 is removably housed in the cartridge housing section 34 of the faucet device 10 described above.

[0068] The cartridge 300 has a microbubble generating unit 102 (see Figure 14(b)). The microbubble generating unit 102 generates microbubbles in the water passing through it. As the water passes through the microbubble generating unit 102, the concentration of microbubbles in the water increases.

[0069] Cartridge 300 has a raw water inlet 104 for introducing raw water into the cartridge 300. Raw water is introduced into the cartridge 300 from the raw water inlet 104. The raw water inlet 104 is located upstream of the microbubble generation unit 102. Inside the cartridge 300, the water introduced from the raw water inlet 104 flows to the microbubble generation unit 102.

[0070] The cartridge 300 has a water purification material 106. In this embodiment, the water purification material 106 purifies water by allowing water to pass through it. In this embodiment, the water purification material 106 also serves as the raw water introduction section 104. Water (raw water) permeates into the water purification material 106 from its outer surface 106a. As the water permeates through the water purification material 106, it is purified and introduced into the cartridge 300. The purified water that has passed through the water purification material 106 flows to the microbubble generation section 102. The structure of the water purification material 106 is the same as in the first embodiment. However, in the cartridge 300 of this embodiment, the axial length of the water purification material 106 is larger. As will be described later, the cartridge 300 does not have an orifice structure section 120, and that section is also occupied by the water purification material 106.

[0071] The cartridge 300 has a connecting end 110. When the cartridge 300 is placed in the cartridge housing 34, the connecting end 110 is connected to the main body of the faucet device 10 (water purifier). The structure of the connecting end 110 is similar to that of the first embodiment, but there are differences. These differences will be described later.

[0072] The cartridge 300 is a single, integrated unit. This cartridge 300 has a microbubble generating section 102, a raw water inlet section 104, and a connecting end 110. The microbubble generating section 102, the raw water inlet section 104, and the connecting end 110 are integrated. The raw water inlet section 104 is composed of a purification material 106. This cartridge 300 has a microbubble generating section 102 and a purification material 106. The microbubble generating section 102 and the purification material 106 are integrated. The cartridge 300 is replaceable as a single unit.

[0073] The microbubble generating section 102 has a swirling flow forming section 146. The structure of the swirling flow forming section 146 is the same as in the first embodiment. The microbubble generating section 102 does not have an orifice structure section 120. In the cartridge 300, only the swirling flow forming section 146 generates microbubbles.

[0074] In cartridge 300, the antibacterial member 176 is located at the rear end of cartridge 300. The antibacterial member 176 is located inside the purification material 106 (raw water introduction section 104). The antibacterial member 176 is located in the cavity section 108. The rear end closing member 112 has a holding section 178 that holds the antibacterial member 176. When the antibacterial member 176 is located at the rear end of cartridge 300, the tip section of cartridge 300 can be made smaller compared to when the antibacterial member 176 is located at the front end of cartridge 300. Therefore, for example, the connection end 110 can be made smaller, the purification material 106 can be made longer to improve water purification performance, or the microbubble generating section 102 can be made longer to improve the performance of generating ultrafine bubbles.

[0075] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the cartridge 400 according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 16(a) is a side view of the cartridge 400, and Figure 16(b) is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge 400.

[0076] The external shape and dimensions of cartridge 400 may be the same as those of cartridge 100 in the first embodiment. Cartridge 400 is interchangeable with cartridge 100. Cartridge 400 is removably housed in the cartridge housing section 34 of the faucet device 10 described above.

[0077] The cartridge 400 has a microbubble generating unit 102. The microbubble generating unit 102 generates microbubbles in the water passing through it. As the water passes through the microbubble generating unit 102, the concentration of microbubbles in the water increases.

[0078] Cartridge 400 has a raw water inlet 104 for introducing raw water into the cartridge 400. Raw water is introduced into the cartridge 400 from the raw water inlet 104. The raw water inlet 104 is located upstream of the microbubble generation unit 102. Inside the cartridge 400, the water introduced from the raw water inlet 104 flows to the microbubble generation unit 102.

[0079] The cartridge 400 does not have a water purification material 106. In the first to third embodiments described above, the water purification material 106 is the raw water inlet 104. However, in this embodiment, the raw water inlet 104 does not purify the water. The raw water inlet 104 is an open channel section 402 that takes in water and flows it to the microbubble generation section 102. The open channel section 402 has an outer wall section 404, a cavity section 406 formed inside the outer wall section 404 and constituting a channel, and an opening 408 formed in the outer wall section 404 that penetrates between the outer surface and the inner surface of the outer wall section 404. The outer wall section 404 constitutes a part of the outer circumferential surface of the cartridge 400. The opening 408 is provided at a position that constitutes the outer circumferential surface of the cartridge 400. Water taken in from the opening 408 and entering the cavity section 406 flows to the microbubble generation section 102. In cartridge 400, the portion that is the purification material 106 in cartridge 100 is replaced by the opening flow channel portion 402.

[0080] The cartridge 400 has a connecting end 110. When the cartridge 400 is placed in the cartridge housing 34, the connecting end 110 is connected to the main body side of the faucet device 10 (water purifier). The structure of the connecting end 110 is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0081] The cartridge 400 is a single, integrated unit. This cartridge 400 has a microbubble generating section 102, a raw water inlet section 104, and a connecting end 110. The microbubble generating section 102, the raw water inlet section 104, and the connecting end 110 are integrated. The raw water inlet section 104 is composed of an open channel section 402 that does not have a water purification function. The microbubble generating section 102 and the open channel section 402 are integrated. The cartridge 400 is replaceable as a single unit.

[0082] The microbubble generating section 102 has an orifice structure section 120. The structure of the orifice structure section 120 is the same as in the first embodiment. The microbubble generating section 102 has a swirling flow forming section 146. The structure of the swirling flow forming section 146 is the same as in the first embodiment. In the cartridge 400, the orifice structure section 120 and the swirling flow forming section 146 generate microbubbles. The microbubble generating section 102 of the cartridge 400 is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0083] Figure 17 is a perspective view of the cartridge 500 according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 18 is a side view of the cartridge 500.

[0084] The external shape and dimensions of cartridge 500 may be the same as those of cartridge 100 in the first embodiment. Cartridge 500 is interchangeable with cartridge 100. Cartridge 500 is removably housed in the cartridge housing section 34 of the faucet device 10 described above.

[0085] The cartridge 500 has a microbubble generating unit 102. The microbubble generating unit 102 generates microbubbles in the water passing through it. As the water passes through the microbubble generating unit 102, the concentration of microbubbles in the water increases.

[0086] Cartridge 500 has a raw water inlet 104 for introducing raw water into the cartridge 500. Raw water is introduced into the cartridge 500 from the raw water inlet 104. The raw water inlet 104 is located upstream of the microbubble generation unit 102. Inside the cartridge 500, the water introduced from the raw water inlet 104 flows to the microbubble generation unit 102.

[0087] The cartridge 500 does not have a water purification material 106. The raw water inlet 104 is an open channel section 402 that takes in water and flows it to the microbubble generation section 102. The open channel section 402 of the cartridge 500 is the same as that of the fourth embodiment.

[0088] The cartridge 500 has a connecting end 110. When the cartridge 500 is placed in the cartridge housing 34, the connecting end 110 is connected to the main body side of the faucet device 10 (water purifier). The structure of the connecting end 110 is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0089] The cartridge 500 is a single, integrated unit. This cartridge 500 has a microbubble generating section 102, a raw water inlet section 104, and a connecting end 110. The microbubble generating section 102, the raw water inlet section 104, and the connecting end 110 are integrated. The raw water inlet section 104 consists of an open channel section 402 that does not have a water purification function. The microbubble generating section 102 and the open channel section 402 are integrated. The cartridge 500 is replaceable as a single unit.

[0090] The microbubble generating section 102 has an orifice structure section 120. The structure of the orifice structure section 120 is the same as in the first embodiment. The microbubble generating section 102 does not have a swirling flow forming section 146. In cartridge 500, only the orifice structure section 120 generates microbubbles. The microbubble generating section 102 of cartridge 500 is the same as in the second embodiment. Cartridge 500 corresponds to cartridge 400 with the swirling flow forming section 146 removed.

[0091] Figure 19(a) is a side view of the cartridge 600 according to the sixth embodiment, and Figure 19(b) is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge 600.

[0092] The external shape and dimensions of cartridge 600 may be the same as those of cartridge 100 in the first embodiment. Cartridge 600 is interchangeable with cartridge 100. Cartridge 600 is removably housed in the cartridge housing section 34 of the faucet device 10 described above.

[0093] The cartridge 600 has a microbubble generating unit 102 (see Figure 19(b)). The microbubble generating unit 102 generates microbubbles in the water passing through it. As the water passes through the microbubble generating unit 102, the concentration of microbubbles in the water increases.

[0094] Cartridge 600 has a raw water inlet 104 for introducing raw water into the cartridge 600. Raw water is introduced into cartridge 600 from the raw water inlet 104. The raw water inlet 104 is located upstream of the microbubble generation unit 102. Inside cartridge 600, the water introduced from the raw water inlet 104 flows to the microbubble generation unit 102.

[0095] The cartridge 600 does not have a water purification material 106. The raw water inlet 104 is an open channel section 402 that takes in water and flows it to the microbubble generation section 102. The structure of the open channel section 402 is the same as in the fourth embodiment. However, in the cartridge 600 of this embodiment, the axial length of the open channel section 402 is large. As will be described later, the cartridge 600 does not have an orifice structure section 120, and that part is also occupied by the open channel section 402.

[0096] The cartridge 600 has a connecting end 110. When the cartridge 600 is placed in the cartridge housing 34, the connecting end 110 is connected to the main body side of the faucet device 10 (water purifier). The structure of the connecting end 110 is similar to that of the first embodiment, but there are differences. These differences will be described later.

[0097] The cartridge 600 is a single, integrated unit. This cartridge 600 has a microbubble generating section 102, a raw water inlet section 104, and a connecting end 110. The microbubble generating section 102, the raw water inlet section 104, and the connecting end 110 are integrated. The raw water inlet section 104 is composed of an open channel section 402. This cartridge 600 has a microbubble generating section 102 and an open channel section 402. The microbubble generating section 102 and the open channel section 402 are integrated. The cartridge 600 is replaceable as a single unit.

[0098] The microbubble generating section 102 has a swirling flow forming section 146. The structure of the swirling flow forming section 146 is the same as in the first embodiment. The microbubble generating section 102 does not have an orifice structure section 120. In the cartridge 600, only the swirling flow forming section 146 generates microbubbles.

[0099] In cartridge 600, the antibacterial member 176 is located at the rear end of cartridge 600. The antibacterial member 176 is located inside the open channel section 402 (raw water introduction section 104). The rear end closing member 112 has a holding section 178 that holds the antibacterial member 176.

[0100] In each embodiment, the microbubble generation unit 102 generates microbubbles. Microbubbles are added to water as it passes through the microbubble generation unit 102. Microbubbles refer to bubbles that include fine bubbles. Fine bubbles are bubbles with a particle size of less than 100 μm. The concept of fine bubbles includes microbubbles and ultrafine bubbles. Microbubbles are bubbles with a particle size of 1 μm or more and less than 100 μm, and ultrafine bubbles are bubbles with a particle size of less than 1 μm. Microbubbles may contain bubbles larger than fine bubbles. That is, microbubbles may contain bubbles with a particle size of 100 μm or more. Preferably, the microbubble generation unit 102 is an ultrafine bubble generation unit that generates ultrafine bubbles. In each of the above embodiments, the microbubble generation unit 102 is an ultrafine bubble generation unit.

[0101] Figure 20 is a perspective view of the water dispensing device 10A with the cartridge 700 of the seventh embodiment installed. The water dispensing device 10A is a faucet-mounted water purifier. The water dispensing device 10A (faucet-mounted water purifier) ​​is directly attached to the faucet f1. The cartridge 700 is built into this faucet-mounted water purifier. The structure of the cartridge 700 may be the same as that of any of the first to sixth embodiments described above. The water dispensing device 10A may be an existing faucet-mounted water purifier. A conventional water purification cartridge that does not have the function of generating microbubbles may be installed in the cartridge housing section 34 of the water dispensing device 10A. By using the cartridge 700 instead of this water purification cartridge, the function of generating microbubbles is added.

[0102] Figure 21 is a perspective view of the water dispensing device 10B in which the cartridge 800 of the eighth embodiment is installed. The water dispensing device 10B is a shower head. This shower head is for use in a bathroom. The cartridge 800 is built into this shower head. The structure of the cartridge 800 may be the same as that of any of the first to sixth embodiments described above. The water dispensing device 10B may be an existing shower head. A conventional water purification cartridge that does not have the function of generating microbubbles may be installed in the cartridge housing section 34 of the water dispensing device 10B. By using the cartridge 800 in place of this water purification cartridge, the function of generating microbubbles is added.

[0103] Each of the embodiments described above produces the following effects.

[0104] The microbubble generating unit 102 is provided in the cartridge. Therefore, microbubbles can be generated simply by changing the cartridge. The function of generating microbubbles can be added by changing only the cartridge specifications, without changing the specifications of the main body of the faucet or other device.

[0105] Some existing water purifiers (dispensing devices) use conventional water purification cartridges. The cartridge of the above embodiment can be made compatible with these water purification cartridges. In existing water purifiers (dispensing devices) equipped with a water purification cartridge, the function of dispensing water containing fine bubbles can be easily added simply by replacing the cartridge, without replacing the faucet. Compatibility can occur even if the external shape and dimensions are different. For example, if the cartridge is housed and fixed in the cartridge housing section 34, connectable to the connection receiving section 8, and can form a gap (raw water flow path GW, first flow path W1) between it and the inner surface 26a of the spout section 26, then compatibility can occur even if the external shape and dimensions are different.

[0106] The microbubble generation unit 102 can generate ultrafine bubbles. In this case, simply by replacing the cartridge, it becomes possible to dispense water containing ultrafine bubbles.

[0107] The microbubble generating unit 102 is difficult to clean because it has small holes and a complex mechanism. Replacing the cartridge also replaces the microbubble generating unit 102. Therefore, the cleanliness of the microbubble generating unit 102 can be maintained.

[0108] In the case of a cartridge having a microbubble generating unit 102 and a purification material 106, both of these functional parts can be replaced simultaneously simply by replacing the cartridge. In other words, there is no need to replace the microbubble generating unit and the purification material (filter media) separately. Therefore, the effort required for replacement can be reduced.

[0109] In the case of a cartridge having a microbubble generating unit 102 and a purification material 106, purified water containing microbubbles can be discharged. If the microbubble generating unit 102 is an ultrafine bubble generating unit, purified water containing ultrafine bubbles can be discharged.

[0110] As described above, various cartridges can be attached to the faucet device 10 having the flow path switching mechanism 40. As a result, the following water discharge switching patterns are possible. • Switching pattern A: Switching between UFB purified water and raw water • Switching pattern B: Switching between UFB water and raw water • Switching pattern C: Switching between purified water and raw water

[0111] "UFB water" refers to raw water containing ultrafine bubbles generated in the microbubble generation unit 102. "UFB purified water" refers to purified water containing ultrafine bubbles generated in the microbubble generation unit 102.

[0112] Switching pattern C is the case when a conventional water purification cartridge 900 without a microbubble generating unit 102 is used. In this case, the faucet device 10 (water purifier) ​​can be an existing faucet device (water purifier). Switching pattern A is the case when a cartridge having a microbubble generating unit 102 and a purification material 106 is used. This cartridge corresponds to cartridges 100, 200, and 300 mentioned above. Switching pattern B is the case when a cartridge having a microbubble generating unit 102 but without a purification material 106 is used. This cartridge corresponds to cartridges 400, 500, and 600 mentioned above. With a common faucet device 10 (water purifier, water dispensing device), three switching patterns can be achieved simply by changing the cartridge.

[0113] Thus, by using the cartridge of this disclosure instead of existing water purification cartridges, it is possible to convert an existing water purifier (dispenser) of switching pattern C to a water purifier (dispenser) of switching pattern A or B. In the case of switching pattern A, the water purifier (dispenser) will have both a water purification function and an ultrafine bubble generation function. In the case of switching pattern B, the water purifier (dispenser) will have the ability to switch between generating ultrafine bubbles and not generating them.

[0114] In the above embodiment, the microbubble generating unit 102 is shown in three types: a type having an orifice structure 120 and a swirling flow forming unit 146 (Type 1), a type having an orifice structure 120 but not a swirling flow forming unit 146 (Type 2), and a type having a swirling flow forming unit 146 but not an orifice structure 120 (Type 3). Type 1 corresponds to the cartridges 100 and 400 described above. Type 2 corresponds to the cartridges 200 and 500 described above. Type 3 corresponds to the cartridges 300 and 600 described above.

[0115] In Type 1, fine bubbles and / or ultrafine bubbles can be generated in both the orifice structure 120 and the swirling flow forming section 146. Furthermore, in Type 1, the orifice structure 120 can be used as the fine bubble generation section, and the swirling flow forming section 146 as the fine bubble refinement section. Type 1 contributes to improving the ultrafine bubble concentration. On the other hand, because Type 1 has both the orifice structure 120 and the swirling flow forming section 146, the flow rate tends to decrease. In this respect, Types 2 and 3 have a higher flow rate compared to Type 1. As a result, the ultrafine bubble concentration may be higher in Type 2 or Type 3 than in Type 1. From the standpoint of conditions such as flow rate, Type 2 may be the most likely to achieve the highest ultrafine bubble concentration. An advantage of Types 2 or 3 is that the microbubble generation section 102 can be made smaller compared to Type 1. In this case, for example, the purification material 106 can be made larger, improving water purification performance. The optimal type can be selected based on usage conditions and desired performance.

[0116] By using purified water containing ultrafine bubbles, the effects of ultrafine bubbles can be added to the situations in which the purified water is used. For example, when washing vegetables, dirt can be effectively removed. When washing vegetables, the cleaning action of ultrafine bubbles increases the cleaning power, and the action of the purified water prevents the loss of vitamin C from the vegetables. Also, when making dashi (broth), the penetrating effect of ultrafine bubbles makes it easier to extract the broth. Furthermore, because residual chlorine in the raw water is removed by the purification agent 106, the food has no unpleasant taste, and the penetrating effect of ultrafine bubbles makes it easier for the purified water to penetrate the ingredients, resulting in tastier food. In addition, the removal of residual chlorine reduces skin irritation for users washing dishes, and the moisturizing effect of ultrafine bubbles also reduces skin irritation. When using purified water containing ultrafine bubbles in a home garden, the antibacterial effect of ultrafine bubbles improves vegetable growth, and the removal of residual chlorine and the reduction of impurities also improve vegetable growth. When washing your hands, hair, or face, ultrafine bubbles provide superior cleansing power and moisturizing / warming effects, while also reducing damage to hair and skin caused by residual chlorine, resulting in clean and beautiful hair and skin.

[0117] A water purifier having a flow path switching mechanism 40 can be fitted with a cartridge that does not have a water purification function (purification material 106). In this case, the purified water discharge mode can be changed to a mode for discharging water containing microbubbles. The flow path switching mechanism 40 makes it possible to switch between raw water treated by the microbubble generation unit 102 and raw water that has not been treated by the microbubble generation unit 102. If the microbubble generation unit 102 is an ultrafine bubble generation unit, water containing ultrafine bubbles (raw water) can be discharged. It is also possible to revert to a water purifier that can switch between purified raw water by replacing it with a cartridge that has a water purification function.

[0118] By using water containing ultrafine bubbles (raw water), the effects of ultrafine bubbles can be added to situations where raw water is used. One of the effects of water containing ultrafine bubbles is improved cleaning power. For example, it can improve the cleaning power against grease on dishes, frying pans, and pots, and against slime in drains. By having water containing ultrafine bubbles flow into the flow path downstream of the cartridge, the cleanliness of this flow path can be improved.

[0119] In a cartridge having a microbubble generating unit 102 and a purification material 106, chlorine can be removed by the purification material 106. Although the removal of chlorine makes it easier for bacteria to grow, the cleanliness of the purified water channel JW can be improved by imparting antibacterial properties to this purified water using ultrafine bubbles.

[0120] In the aforementioned Japanese Patent Publication No. 2025-9283, the filter media and the microbubble generating unit are provided as separate components, and the housing for the filter media and the housing for the microbubble generating unit are also provided separately. Therefore, the replacement of the filter media and the replacement of the microbubble generating unit must be performed separately. On the other hand, in the above embodiment, in the cartridge having a microbubble generating unit 102 and a purification material 106, the microbubble generating unit 102 and the purification material 106 are integrated. Therefore, by simply replacing the cartridge, the microbubble generating unit 102 and the purification material 106 are replaced, reducing the effort required for replacement. The microbubble generating unit 102 and the purification material 106 are integrated in one cartridge, and only one cartridge housing 34 is needed. Therefore, the structure of the water dispensing device (water purifier) ​​can be simplified, and the water dispensing device (water purifier) ​​can be made smaller. Furthermore, since the microbubble generating unit 102 and the purification material 106 are integrated into a single cartridge, it can be used as is in the water purification cartridge housing of an existing water purifier. Therefore, by simply replacing the cartridge, the function of generating microbubbles (ultrafine bubbles) can be added to an existing water purifier.

[0121] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2025-9283 states that when adding a microbubble generation function to an existing water purifier, the entire water purifier must be replaced. However, in the above embodiment, only the cartridge needs to be replaced in the existing water purifier. A microbubble generation function (a function that generates ultrafine bubbles) can be easily added without replacing the water purifier or faucet. Furthermore, depending on the user's usage, it is possible to revert to a normal water purifier simply by replacing it with a regular water purification cartridge.

[0122] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2025-9283 describes a method of generating microbubbles by taking in outside air. Taking in outside air is particularly undesirable from a hygienic standpoint in water purification. Furthermore, taking in outside air increases the volume of water and reduces the water flow rate. Also, when outside air is taken in, the placement of the microbubble generation unit may be limited to near the water outlet. In the above embodiment, microbubbles (ultrafine bubbles) are generated without taking in outside air. Therefore, it is hygienically preferable and the reduction in water flow rate is suppressed. In addition, the microbubble generation unit 102 can be placed at a location away from the water outlet 28, such as the spout section 26.

[0123] Existing water purifier cartridge housings 34 do not have air intake ports. By designing the microbubble generating unit 102 to not take in air, the cartridge housings 34 of existing water purifiers can be utilized.

[0124] The microbubble generation unit 102 can be configured to include a fine bubble generation unit that generates fine bubbles and a fine bubble miniaturization unit that can further miniaturize these fine bubbles. As in the cartridge 100 of the first embodiment, the microbubble generation unit 102 can be provided with an orifice structure unit 120 and a swirling flow forming unit 146. In this case, the orifice structure unit 120 can be the fine bubble generation unit, and the swirling flow forming unit 146 can be the fine bubble miniaturization unit. The fine bubbles generated in the orifice structure unit 120 can be further miniaturized in the swirling flow forming unit 146. With this configuration, ultrafine bubbles can be effectively generated.

[0125] The water containing microbubbles that has passed through the microbubble generation section 102 collides with the collision section 180. This collision of the microbubble-containing water with the collision section 180 causes further miniaturization of the bubbles and can also induce cavitation. The collision section 180 can improve the efficiency of ultrafine bubble generation.

[0126] As shown in Figures 4 and 6(a), each embodiment has a partition 166 that separates the outlet 111 of the water that has passed through the cartridge. The partition 166 connects a small diameter section 168 and a large diameter section 170. As shown in Figure 5(b), the partition 166 extends radially inward as it approaches the tip Tp. When the water flow collides with the partition 166, the miniaturization of bubbles occurs, and cavitation may also occur. The partition 166 can increase the efficiency of ultrafine bubble generation.

[0127] The cartridge of each embodiment has a buffer section 182 that blocks water hammer from the flow path switching valve 42 to the purification material 106 or the microbubble generating section 102. The buffer section 182 is located at the position where the centerlines of the cartridges intersect. The buffer section 182 is provided at the connecting end 110. The buffer section 182 is provided at the small diameter section 168. The buffer section 182 extends radially. In the above embodiment, the impact section 180 is the buffer section 182. Water hammer occurs when the flow path switching valve 42 is switched. When the water purification valve 42b is closed, the water hammer can propagate through the water purification flow path JW and reach the purification material 106. The buffer section 182 is located at a position that blocks this water hammer. The buffer section 182 suppresses the water hammer that propagates to the purification material 106 or the microbubble generating section 102. As a result, the load on the purification material 106 or the microbubble generation unit 102 due to water hammer is reduced.

[0128] As shown in Figure 5(b), in the cartridge 100 of the first embodiment, a recess is formed downstream of the impact portion 180 (buffer portion 182), and the impact portion 180 (buffer portion 182) forms the bottom of the recess. Therefore, water hammer can enter this recess. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 14(b), in the cartridge 300 of the third embodiment, a recess is formed upstream of the impact portion 180 (buffer portion 182), and the impact portion 180 (buffer portion 182) forms the bottom of the recess. Therefore, water containing fine bubbles can enter this recess. The arrangement of the impact portion 180 (buffer portion 182) is not limited as long as the objective is achieved.

[0129] In the case where a microbubble generating unit 102 and a purification material 106 are provided, as in the cartridge 100 of the first embodiment, the microbubble generating unit 102 is provided downstream of the purification material 106. If the purification material 106 is activated carbon, ultrafine bubbles may reduce the function of the activated carbon. Substances adsorbed on the activated carbon may be detached from the activated carbon and flow out due to the ultrafine bubbles. In addition, the presence of ultrafine bubbles reduces the contact area between the activated carbon and water, which carries the risk of lowering the adsorption rate (chlorine removal rate, etc.). By providing the microbubble generating unit 102 downstream of the purification material 106, it is prevented that the ultrafine bubbles generated in the microbubble generating unit 102 will affect the purification material 106.

[0130] As shown in Figure 3, the flow path switching mechanism 40 is located downstream of the cartridge 100. Therefore, the flow path switching mechanism 40 is located downstream of the microbubble generation unit 102. The ultrafine bubbles generated in the microbubble generation unit 102 have cleaning and sterilizing effects. As a result, the purified water flow path JW, through which chlorine-free purified water flows, can be kept clean. In addition, the flow path switching mechanism 40 is cleaned by the ultrafine bubbles, preventing malfunctions caused by clogging with fine particles.

[0131] The concentration of ultrafine bubbles may increase by passing through the microbubble generation unit 102. It is preferable that the concentration of ultrafine bubbles in the water that has passed through the microbubble generation unit 102 be high. From the viewpoint of cleaning effect, penetration effect, and sterilization effect, it is preferable that the concentration of ultrafine bubbles be 1 million / ml or more. From the viewpoint of effects such as dashi extraction, it is more preferable that the concentration of ultrafine bubbles be 5 million / ml or more. In the configuration of the above embodiment, the concentration of ultrafine bubbles may be 9 million / ml or more. A higher concentration of ultrafine bubbles is preferable, but considering the usage conditions of household faucets, the concentration of ultrafine bubbles may be, for example, 20 million / ml or less.

[0132] The ultrafine bubble concentration mentioned above is the particle number concentration. This particle number concentration can be measured in accordance with the Fine Bubble Industry Association (FBIA) standards, "FBIA3-1-1:2019" (test method for fine bubble shower heads) and "Method for measuring the size and number concentration of ultrafine bubbles (FBIA3-1-1:2017)". The measurement conditions may be as follows. The measurement equipment may be the "NanoSight NS300" from Quantum Design, Inc., and measured using particle trajectory analysis. • Single pass (no looping) • Supply water: Ion-exchanged water (water conforming to the FBIA's definition of ultrapure water) ·Water temperature: normal temperature (28℃) ·Flow rate: 7.0L / min

[0133] The method for generating microbubbles (especially ultrafine bubbles) in the microbubble generation section 102 is not limited. In the embodiment described above, microbubbles are generated by cavitation from dissolved air in water in the orifice structure section 120 and the swirling flow forming section 146. In addition, a swirling liquid flow method is used in the swirling flow forming section 146 to further refine the bubbles. Besides these methods, other methods such as a static mixer method and a micropore method may also be employed. The static mixer method is a method of crushing bubbles with protrusions in the flow path. The micropore method is a method of generating microbubbles in a liquid by blowing gas into the liquid flow from fine holes. Examples of methods for generating microbubbles, including these methods, are as follows. Any of these methods may be employed. (1) Examples of microbubble generation methods • Methods for disrupting air bubbles by shearing the liquid (swirling flow type, ejector type, venturi type, micropore type, static mixer type) • Methods for precipitating dissolved gases in a liquid (pressure-induced precipitation method, heating-induced precipitation method) • A method for rapidly condensing steam bubbles (direct steam contact condensation method) (2) Examples of methods for generating ultrafine bubbles • Methods using microbubbles as raw material (high-speed swirling liquid flow method, pressurized dissolution method) • Methods for directly generating ultrafine bubbles (surfactant-added micropore method, ultrasonic cavitation method)

[0134] In the above embodiment, the ultrasonic cavitation method is employed in the microbubble generation section 102. In particular, the ultrasonic cavitation method is employed in the orifice structure section 120. The ultrasonic cavitation method is also employed in the swirling flow formation section 146. The swirling flow formation section 146 may not generate ultrafine bubbles, but merely refine fine bubbles.

[0135] Examples of materials for the purification material 106 include activated carbon, hollow fiber membrane, calcium sulfite, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), ion exchanger, RO membrane (reverse osmosis membrane), and combinations of two or more of these. Calcium sulfite and vitamin C are chlorine removers. The ion exchanger is an ion remover and has a water softening function. For example, if the water discharge device is a bathroom shower, cleaning agents (shampoo, soapy water, detergent, etc.), agents for treating skin diseases (acne, atopic dermatitis, etc.), perfumes, slimming agents, cosmetic additives (whitening water, antiperspirants, etc.), moisturizers, or bath additives (carbonated tablets, etc.) can be used instead of the purification material 106. In this case, dissolved water containing ultrafine bubbles from the aforementioned agents can be discharged. By including ultrafine bubbles, the cleaning power and penetration power are improved, and the effects of the agents can be enhanced.

[0136] Examples of water dispensing devices (faucets) to which the cartridge disclosed herein can be applied include the following. Note that the applicable water purifier is not limited to faucets installed in system kitchens, but may also be faucets installed in washbasins or system bathrooms, faucets installed in factories, faucets installed outdoors, etc. • Faucet-integrated water purifier (spout-in type) • Faucet-mounted water purifier (a type that attaches directly to the faucet) • Built-in water filter (the type installed under the kitchen sink) • Countertop water purifier (the type that sits on a counter or table) • Pitcher-type water filter (a type that can be filled with water and stored in a refrigerator, etc.) • Portable water purifier (portable bottle type) • Water dispensers and other water supply devices ·Water conditioner • Industrial water purifiers • Shower head for bathroom • Sprinkler nozzles for gardening, agriculture, or cleaning. • Sprinkler systems for gardening, agriculture, or washing. • Water discharge devices used in fields such as washing, food processing, and agricultural and marine products. • Rainwater tank • Washing machine and washing machine water supply hose • Aquarium circulation system or its filter material • Pet water purifier • Central water purifier (a water purifier installed at the main water valve or similar point in the house, which purifies all the water in the house at once)

[0137] The following notes are part of the inventions included in this disclosure. [Note 1] A cartridge that is removably housed in the cartridge housing section of a water purifier, It comprises a water purification material and a microbubble generating unit positioned downstream of the water purification material, which is capable of mixing microbubbles into the purified water that has passed through the water purification material. Within the water purifier, a raw water channel is formed in which raw water flows downstream without passing through the purification material, and a purified water channel is formed in which raw water flows downstream after passing through the purification material. The purifying material and the microbubble generating unit are integrated, A cartridge that can be replaced as a single unit. [Note 2] A cartridge that is replaceably housed in the cartridge housing section of a water dispensing device, It includes a microbubble generating section that generates microbubbles in the water passing through its interior, A raw water introduction unit is located upstream of the microbubble generating unit and introduces raw water into the cartridge, A connection end is located downstream of the microbubble generating section and connects the cartridge to the main body of the water dispensing device, It has, The raw water introduced from the raw water inlet passes through the microbubble generation section and is discharged from the connection end. The raw water introduction section, the microbubble generation section, and the connecting end are integrated into one unit. A cartridge that can be replaced as a single unit. [Note 3] The raw water inlet section is formed of a purification material. The cartridge described in Appendix 2, wherein raw water is purified as it passes through the aforementioned purification material and is then introduced into the cartridge. [Note 4] A cartridge that is replaceably housed in the cartridge housing section of a water dispensing device, It has a microbubble generating section that generates microbubbles in the water passing through its interior. Within the water discharge device, a first channel is formed through which raw water flows downstream without passing through the inside of the cartridge, and a second channel is formed through which raw water flows downstream after passing through the microbubble generating section of the cartridge. A cartridge that enables the discharge of water containing fine bubbles by discharging water that has passed through the second channel. [Note 5] A cartridge as described in Appendix 4, which can be attached to the cartridge housing in place of a cartridge having a purifying material. [Note 6] The cartridge according to any one of the appendices 1 to 5, wherein the microbubble generating unit is an ultrafine bubble generating unit that generates ultrafine bubbles. [Note 7] The cartridge according to any one of the appendices 1 to 5, wherein the microbubble generating section comprises a fine bubble generating section that generates fine bubbles and a fine bubble miniaturizing section that can miniaturize the fine bubbles. [Note 8] The cartridge according to any one of the appendices 1 to 7, wherein the microbubble generating section has an orifice structure that generates the microbubbles by cavitation effect. [Note 9] The cartridge according to any one of the appendices 1 to 7, wherein the microbubble generating section has a swirling flow forming section that forms a swirling flow. [Note 10] The cartridge according to any one of the appendices 1 to 7, wherein the microbubble generating section comprises an orifice structure that generates the microbubbles by cavitation effect and a swirling flow forming section that forms a swirling flow. [Note 11] The cartridge according to any one of the appendices 1 to 10, wherein the microbubble generating unit generates microbubbles without taking in outside air. [Note 12] The cartridge according to any one of the appendices 1 to 11, further comprising a collision section downstream of the microbubble generating section, upon which the microbubble-containing water that has passed through the microbubble generating section collides. [Note 13] The water purifier has a flow path switching mechanism that includes a flow path switching valve for switching between raw water discharge and purified water discharge. The cartridge according to Appendix 1, further comprising a buffer section disposed downstream of the purifying material and the microbubble generating section, which blocks water hammer from the flow path switching valve to the purifying material or the microbubble generating section. [Note 14] A collision section is provided downstream of the microbubble generation section, where the microbubble-containing water that has passed through the microbubble generation section collides. The cartridge described in Appendix 13, wherein the collision portion is the buffer portion. [Note 15] The water purifier has a flow path switching mechanism that includes a flow path switching valve for switching between raw water discharge and purified water discharge. The cartridge according to Appendix 1, 13, or 14, wherein the flow path switching mechanism is located downstream of the microbubble generation section. [Note 16] The water discharge device has a flow path switching mechanism that includes a flow path switching valve for switching between discharge from the first flow path and discharge from the second flow path. The cartridge according to any one of the appendices 2 to 5, wherein the flow path switching mechanism is located downstream of the microbubble generation section. [Note 17] A cartridge, as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 16, which is installed in the spout of a faucet. [Note 18] It has a cartridge housing section and a cartridge that is replaceably housed in the cartridge housing section. The cartridge comprises a water purification material and a microbubble generating unit that generates microbubbles. A water purifier in which the purifying material and the microbubble generating unit are integrated into a single cartridge. [Note 19] It has a cartridge housing section and a cartridge that is replaceably housed in the cartridge housing section. A water purifier in which the cartridge has been replaced from a water purification cartridge equipped with a water purification material to a microbubble generating cartridge equipped with a microbubble generating unit that generates microbubbles. [Note 20] It has a water purification material and a microbubble generating unit that generates microbubbles. A microbubble generator in which the purifying material and the microbubble generating unit are integrated.

[0138] This application also discloses other inventions not included in the claims (including independent claims). Each form, component, configuration, and combination thereof described in the claims and embodiments of this application is recognized as an invention based on the effects and advantages it has.

[0139] Each of the forms, components, and configurations shown in the above embodiments can be individually applied to all inventions described in this application, including the invention claimed in this application, even if not all of the forms, components, or configurations of these embodiments are present. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0140] 10. Faucet equipment (water dispensing device, faucet-integrated water purifier) 10A...Water dispensing device (faucet-mounted water purifier) 10B...Water discharge device (shower head) 12. Faucet base 14. Handle 16...Water outlet head 24. Head section 26... Spout section 28...Water hole 30...Flow path switching operation unit 32...Water type switching operation section 34. Cartridge storage section 40...Flow path switching mechanism 42...Flow path switching valve 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900... cartridges 102...Microbubble generation section (ultrafine bubble generation section) 104... Raw water inlet 106... Purification material 108...Cavity 109... Flow channel forming member 110...Connection end 111... Outlet of treated water that has passed through the cartridge 112...Rear end closing member 120... Orifice structure 122... Orifice hole 124...First aperture section 126...Second aperture section 128...First Expansion Section 130...Second Expansion Section 132...Core 134... Ribs 136... Nail part 140...Main components 142...Inner components 146...Swirling flow forming part 148...First component 150...Second component 158...Swirling flow forming hole 160...Inflow channel 162... Core body part 166... ​​Partition section 176...Antibacterial material 180...Collision part 182··· Buffer Section 402···Open flow path part 404···Outer wall section 406···Cavity Section 408···Opening W1···1st flow path W2...2nd flow path GW···Original Water Flow Path JW···Water Purification Flow Path SF···Swirlflow

Claims

1. A cartridge that is removably housed in the cartridge housing section of a water purifier, It comprises a water purification material and a microbubble generating unit positioned downstream of the water purification material, which is capable of mixing microbubbles, including ultrafine bubbles, into the purified water that has passed through the water purification material. Within the water purifier, a raw water channel is provided between the outer surface of the cartridge and the wall defining the cartridge housing, allowing raw water to flow downstream without passing through the purification material, and a purified water channel is provided inside the purification material, allowing raw water to flow downstream after passing through the purification material. The purifying material and the microbubble generating unit are integrated, They are interchangeable as a single unit. The aforementioned microbubble generating unit generates the microbubbles without taking in outside air. In the water purifier having a flow path switching mechanism, a component is disposed upstream of the flow path switching mechanism. A water purification cartridge having a connecting end and a purification material but no microbubble generating section, which is compatible with a water purification cartridge that can be housed in the cartridge housing and is housed in the cartridge housing, wherein at least a portion of the part of the water purification cartridge where the purification material is provided is the microbubble generating section. cartridge.

2. A cartridge that is replaceably housed in the cartridge housing section of a water dispensing device, It includes a microbubble generating section that generates microbubbles, which are bubbles containing ultrafine bubbles, in the water passing through it, A raw water introduction unit is located upstream of the microbubble generating unit and introduces raw water into the cartridge, A connection end is located downstream of the microbubble generating section and connects the cartridge to the main body of the water dispensing device, It has, The raw water introduced from the raw water inlet passes through the microbubble generation section and is discharged from the connection end. The raw water introduction section, the microbubble generation section, and the connecting end are integrated into one unit. They are interchangeable as a single unit. The aforementioned microbubble generating unit generates the microbubbles without taking in outside air. In the water discharge device having a flow path switching mechanism, a component is located upstream of the flow path switching mechanism. A water purification cartridge having a connecting end and a purification material but no microbubble generating section, which is compatible with a water purification cartridge that can be housed in the cartridge housing and is housed in the cartridge housing, wherein at least a portion of the part of the water purification cartridge where the purification material is provided is the microbubble generating section. cartridge.

3. The raw water inlet section is formed of a purification material. The cartridge according to claim 2, wherein raw water is purified as it passes through the purifying material and is introduced into the cartridge.

4. A cartridge that is replaceably housed in the cartridge housing section of a water dispensing device, It has a microbubble generating section that generates microbubbles, which are bubbles containing ultrafine bubbles, in the water passing through it. Within the water discharge device, a first channel is provided between the outer surface of the cartridge and the wall defining the cartridge housing, through which raw water flows downstream without passing through the inside of the cartridge, and a second channel is provided inside the cartridge, through which raw water passes through the microbubble generating section of the cartridge and flows downstream. By discharging the water that has passed through the second channel, it is possible to discharge water containing fine bubbles. The aforementioned microbubble generating unit generates the microbubbles without taking in outside air. In the water discharge device having a flow path switching mechanism, a component is located upstream of the flow path switching mechanism. A water purification cartridge having a connecting end and a purification material but no microbubble generating section, which is compatible with a water purification cartridge that can be housed in the cartridge housing and is housed in the cartridge housing, wherein at least a portion of the part of the water purification cartridge where the purification material is provided is the microbubble generating section. cartridge.

5. The cartridge according to claim 4, which does not have a purifying material.

6. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the microbubble generating unit comprises a fine bubble generating unit that generates fine bubbles and a fine bubble miniaturizing unit that can miniaturize the fine bubbles.

7. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the microbubble generating section has an orifice structure that generates the microbubbles by cavitation effect.

8. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the microbubble generating section has a swirling flow forming section that forms a swirling flow.

9. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the microbubble generating section comprises an orifice structure that generates the microbubbles by cavitation effect and a swirling flow forming section that forms a swirling flow.

10. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a collision section is further provided downstream of the microbubble generating section, to which the microbubble-containing water that has passed through the microbubble generating section collides.

11. The flow path switching mechanism includes a flow path switching valve that switches between raw water discharge and purified water discharge, The cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising a buffer section disposed downstream of the purifying material and the microbubble generating section, which blocks water hammer from the flow path switching valve to the purifying material or the microbubble generating section.

12. A collision section is provided downstream of the microbubble generation section, where the microbubble-containing water that has passed through the microbubble generation section collides. The cartridge according to claim 11, wherein the collision portion is the cushioning portion.

13. The flow path switching mechanism includes a flow path switching valve that switches between raw water discharge and purified water discharge, The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the flow path switching mechanism is located downstream of the microbubble generation section.

14. The flow path switching mechanism includes a flow path switching valve that switches between discharge from the first flow path and discharge from the second flow path, The cartridge according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the flow path switching mechanism is located downstream of the microbubble generation section.

15. A cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 5, which is installed in the spout of a faucet.

16. The device comprises a flow path switching mechanism, a cartridge housing section, and a cartridge that is replaceably housed in the cartridge housing section, The cartridge comprises a water purification material and a microbubble generating unit that generates microbubbles, which are bubbles containing ultrafine bubbles. The microbubble generating section is provided downstream of the purifying material. The aforementioned purifying material contains activated carbon, In the cartridge, the purifying material and the microbubble generating section are integrated, The aforementioned microbubble generating unit generates the microbubbles without taking in outside air. The cartridge is positioned upstream of the flow path switching mechanism. The cartridge is a water purification cartridge having a connecting end and a purification material but no microbubble generating section, and is compatible with a water purification cartridge that can be housed in the cartridge housing section, and at least a portion of the part of the water purification cartridge where the purification material is provided is the microbubble generating section. Water purifier.

17. A water discharge device having a flow path switching mechanism, a cartridge housing section, and a cartridge that is replaceably housed in the cartridge housing section, The aforementioned cartridge has been replaced from a water purification cartridge equipped with a water purification material to a microbubble generating cartridge equipped with a microbubble generating unit that generates microbubbles. The aforementioned microbubble generating unit generates the microbubbles without taking in outside air. The microbubble generating cartridge is positioned upstream of the flow path switching mechanism. The microbubble generating cartridge is compatible with a water purification cartridge that has a connecting end and a purification material but does not have a microbubble generating section, and is housed in the cartridge housing section, and at least a portion of the part of the water purification cartridge where the purification material is provided is the microbubble generating section. Water dispensing device.

18. The water discharge device according to claim 17, wherein the microbubble generating cartridge does not contain a purifying material.

19. It has a water purification material and a microbubble generating unit that generates microbubbles containing ultrafine bubbles. The microbubble generating section is provided downstream of the purifying material. The aforementioned purifying material contains activated carbon, The purifying material and the microbubble generating unit are integrated, The aforementioned microbubble generating unit generates the microbubbles without taking in outside air. It is housed in the cartridge housing of a water discharge device having a flow path switching mechanism, and is positioned upstream of the flow path switching mechanism. A water purification cartridge having a connecting end and a purification material but no microbubble generating section, which is compatible with a water purification cartridge that can be housed in the cartridge housing and is housed in the cartridge housing, wherein at least a portion of the part of the water purification cartridge where the purification material is provided is the microbubble generating section. Microbubble generator.

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