JP7577305B2 - Water discharge member and water discharge device equipped with water discharge member - Google Patents

Description

This disclosure relates to a water discharge member and a water discharge device equipped with the water discharge member.

Various water discharge devices are known, such as faucets, shower heads, and water spray nozzles. Water discharge devices discharge water in a form suited to the application.

JP 2007-326082 A discloses a showerhead that ejects a first mist flow and a second mist flow. In this showerhead, the second mist flow is ejected outside the first mist flow to prevent the first mist flow from diffusing.

JP 2007-326082 A

To accommodate a variety of uses, it is preferable to have a high degree of freedom in water discharge. If multiple types of water discharge holes are provided and the specifications for water discharge can be changed depending on the water discharge hole, the degree of freedom in water discharge can be increased. Examples of such specifications include water shape, water discharge volume, water discharge pressure, etc. The inventor has come to discover a new structure suitable for water discharge members having water discharge holes with different specifications.

One example of the objective of this disclosure is to provide a new structure that can achieve good water discharge from each of the water discharge holes with different specifications.

In one embodiment, the water discharge member has a first water discharge hole having a first hole space, a second water discharge hole having a second hole space, a water discharge hole arrangement section in which the first water discharge hole and the second water discharge hole are provided, a storage space provided upstream of the water discharge hole arrangement section, a main water supply passage including the storage space and supplying water to the storage space, a pressure adjustment member forming a partition between the water discharge hole arrangement section and the storage space, a first auxiliary water supply passage supplying water from the storage space to the first water discharge hole, and a second auxiliary water supply passage supplying water from the storage space to the second water discharge hole. At least a portion of the first auxiliary water supply passage and at least a portion of the second auxiliary water supply passage are formed by the pressure adjustment member. The pressure adjustment member sets the pressure loss of the first auxiliary water supply passage and the pressure loss of the second auxiliary water supply passage separately.

In another aspect, the water discharge member has a first water discharge hole having a first hole space, a second water discharge hole having a second hole space, a water discharge hole arrangement section in which the first water discharge hole and the second water discharge hole are provided, a storage space provided upstream of the water discharge hole arrangement section, a main water supply passage including the storage space and supplying water to the storage space, a pressure adjustment member forming a partition between the water discharge hole arrangement section and the storage space, a first auxiliary water supply passage supplying water from the storage space to the first water discharge hole, and a second auxiliary water supply passage supplying water from the storage space to the second water discharge hole. At least a part of the first auxiliary water supply passage and at least a part of the second auxiliary water supply passage are formed by the pressure adjustment member. The pressure adjustment member regulates the first auxiliary water supply passage and the second auxiliary water supply passage so as to reduce the difference between the pressure loss of the first water discharge hole and the pressure loss of the second water discharge hole.

In one aspect, a new structure can be provided that can achieve good water discharge from each of the water discharge holes with different specifications.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a water discharge device according to one embodiment. Figure 2(a) is an oblique view of the water-spouting head in the water-spouting device of Figure 1, Figure 2(b) is a side view of the water-spouting head, Figure 2(c) is a bottom view of the water-spouting head, and Figure 2(d) is a front view of the water-spouting head. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. FIG. 4(a) is a perspective view of the water-spouting head as viewed from the front side, and FIG. 4(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 4(a). FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the water spouting head. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of region X in FIG. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of region Y in FIG. Figure 8(a) is an oblique view of the pressure adjustment member seen from above, Figure 8(b) is a plan view of the pressure adjustment member, Figure 8(c) is a side view of the pressure adjustment member, Figure 8(d) is an oblique view of the pressure adjustment member seen from below, and Figure 8(e) is a bottom view of the pressure adjustment member. Figure 9(a) is an oblique view of the screen member seen from above, Figure 9(b) is a plan view of the screen member, Figure 9(c) is a side view of the screen member, Figure 9(d) is an oblique view of the screen member seen from below, and Figure 9(e) is a bottom view of the screen member. FIG. 10 is a diagram in which the lines on the upper surface of the screen member and the lines on the lower surface of the pressure adjusting member are overlapped. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the same water-spouting head as FIG. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the same area as Fig. 7. In Fig. 7, the pressure adjustment member is not floating, but in Fig. 12, the pressure adjustment member is floating.

The embodiments are described in detail below with reference to the drawings as appropriate.

In this application, "upper side" and "lower side" refer to the "upper side" and "lower side" of the water discharge head in a standard state. These terms are determined according to the position of the water discharge head when in use.

The standard state is the state (position) of the water spout head 8 when it is normally used. For example, if the water spout head 8 is a shower head for use in the bathroom, the standard state may be when the shower head is hung on a shower hook and the water spouting direction is facing all the way downwards. The water spout head 8 in Figure 1 is in the standard state. Unless otherwise stated, descriptions in this application that may depend on the position of the water spout head 8 may be considered to be descriptions in the standard state.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a water discharger 2 according to one embodiment. The water discharger 2 is attached to a washbasin (not shown). Examples of locations where the water discharger 2 may be installed include a washbasin, a sink, and a bathroom. The location where the water discharger of the present disclosure may be installed is not limited.

The water discharge device 2 has a main body 4, a lever handle 6, and a water discharge head 8. The water discharge device 2 is a so-called single-lever faucet. The temperature of the discharged water can be adjusted by rotating the lever handle 6 left and right. The amount of water discharged can be adjusted by rotating the lever handle 6 up and down. The lever handle 6 is an example of an operating part that can adjust the amount of water discharged. Inside the main body 4, a valve mechanism is built in that allows the temperature and amount of water discharged to be adjusted. This valve mechanism is publicly known. In this way, the amount of water discharged can be adjusted in the water discharge device 2. This valve mechanism is an example of a water discharge amount adjustment mechanism.

Examples of water-discharging components disclosed herein include water-discharging heads for washbasin water-discharging devices (faucets) such as the water-discharging head 8 described above, as well as water-discharging heads for sink water-discharging devices (faucets), shower heads for bathroom water-discharging devices (faucets), and watering nozzles for gardening or cleaning.

The water discharge device 2 further has a hot water inlet pipe 10, a water inlet pipe 12, and a discharge pipe 14. The hot water inlet pipe 10 is connected, for example, to a pipe extending from a water heater, and supplies hot water to the hot water valve hole of the valve mechanism. The water inlet pipe 12 is connected, for example, to a water supply pipe without passing through a water heater, and supplies water to the water valve hole of the valve mechanism. The discharge pipe 14 is connected to the exhaust hole of the valve mechanism, and supplies a hot water/cold water mixture to the main water supply passage 22 (described later) of the water discharge head 8. The discharge pipe 14 is pulled out to the outside when the water discharge head 8 is removed from the main body 4 for use.

Heated hot water is introduced into the hot water introduction pipe 10. Heating is performed by a water heater. Unheated water is introduced into the water introduction pipe 12. The hot water introduction pipe 10 supplies hot water to the valve mechanism. The water introduction pipe 12 supplies water to the valve mechanism. The valve mechanism adjusts the mixing ratio of hot water and water. This mixing ratio achieves temperature regulation of the discharged water. In this application, heated hot water, unheated water, and their mixed liquid are also simply referred to as "water."

The water spouting head 8 does not have a water shape switching mechanism that switches the water shape by operation. The water spouting head 8 may have a water shape switching mechanism. The water spouting head 8 does not have a water purification function unit that purifies water. The water spouting head 8 may have a water purification function unit that purifies raw water. The water spouting head 8 does not have a water spouting switching mechanism that switches whether the water spouted is raw water or purified water. The water spouting head 8 may have a water spouting switching mechanism that switches whether the water spouted is raw water or purified water.

Figure 2(a) is a perspective view of the water spouting head 8, Figure 2(b) is a side view of the water spouting head 8, Figure 2(c) is a bottom view of the water spouting head 8, and Figure 2(d) is a front view of the water spouting head 8. Figure 2(d) is a view of the water spouting head 8 from the front with the center line of the cylindrical surface of the outer cover 34 horizontal. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in Figure 2(d). Figure 4(a) is a perspective view of the water spouting head taken from the front, and is viewed from a slightly different angle than Figure 2(d). Figure 4(a) is a view of the water spouting head 8 taken from the front with the water spouting screen horizontal. Figure 4(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in Figure 4(a). In Figure 4(b), the flow of water is indicated diagrammatically by arrows.

The water discharge head 8 has a connection part 18 that is connected to the main body part 4. A seal member 20 is disposed in the connection part 18. The water discharge head 8 is connected to the main body part 4 in a watertight manner.

As shown in Figures 3 and 4(b), the water spout head 8 has a main water supply passage 22. The main water supply passage 22 is connected to the discharge hole of the valve mechanism described above.

As shown clearly in FIG. 2(c), the water discharge head 8 has a first water discharge hole h1 and a second water discharge hole h2. The first water discharge hole h1 and the second water discharge hole h2 are arranged in the water discharge hole arrangement section 24. In this embodiment, the water discharge hole arrangement section 24 is a water discharge screen. A plurality of first water discharge holes h1 and a plurality of second water discharge holes h2 are provided. There may be only one first water discharge hole h1. There may be only one second water discharge hole h2. The shape of the water discharged from the first water discharge hole h1 is not limited. The shape of the water discharged from the second water discharge hole h2 is not limited.

In a plan view of the water discharge hole arrangement section 24, the first water discharge holes h1 are arranged along a first virtual circle (not shown). The first water discharge holes h1 are arranged at equal intervals around the circumference of this first virtual circle.

In a plan view of the water discharge hole arrangement portion 24, a plurality of second water discharge holes h2 are arranged along a second imaginary circle (not shown). The second water discharge holes h2 are arranged at equal intervals on the circumference of this second imaginary circle. Furthermore, in this plan view, a plurality of second water discharge holes h2 are arranged along a third imaginary circle (not shown). The second water discharge holes h2 are arranged at equal intervals on the circumference of this third imaginary circle.

In a plan view of the water discharge hole arrangement section 24, the first virtual circle, the second virtual circle, and the third virtual circle are concentric circles. The second virtual circle is located outside the first virtual circle. The third virtual circle is located outside the second virtual circle.

The water discharged from each of the first water discharge holes h1 becomes mist. Each of the first water discharge holes h1 is a mist hole that forms mist. Each of the first water discharge holes h1 discharges mist in the form of a hollow cone. As described below, this mist contains ultra-fine bubbles. In this embodiment, the water discharged from the first water discharge holes h1 can contain a large number of ultra-fine bubbles.

The second water outlet holes h2 are shower holes. Each second water outlet hole h2 ejects water in a substantially linear shape. The water ejected from multiple second water outlet holes h2 forms a shower water shape.

As shown in FIG. 4(b), the main water supply passage 22 has a fine bubble generating section 27. The fine bubble generating section 27 has a spiral flow forming section 28 and a constricted section 30.

The spiral flow forming section 28 has multiple guide vanes 28a. The guide vanes 28a are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the spiral flow forming section 28. Each guide vane 28a is oriented so as to guide the water flow in one swirling direction (clockwise direction in FIG. 4(b)). Water that passes through the spiral flow forming section 28 becomes a spiral flow (swirling guide effect).

In the main water supply passage 22, the position of the inlet 28b of the spiral flow forming section 28 is offset from the center of the spiral flow forming section 28. This offset also creates the above-mentioned spiral flow (offset effect).

The constriction 30 is provided adjacent to the spiral flow forming section 28 and downstream of the spiral flow forming section 28. The constriction 30 forms a flow path that is narrower than the upstream and downstream sides.

The main water supply passage 22 has a storage space 32. The storage space 32 is located upstream of the water discharge hole arrangement section 24. The main water supply passage 22 terminates at the storage space 32. The storage space 32 is located between the fine bubble generating section 27 and the pressure adjustment member 42. The main water supply passage 22 supplies water toward the storage space 32. The storage space 32 is the portion of the main water supply passage 22 that extends to the pressure adjustment member 42 and is adjacent to the pressure adjustment member 42.

Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the water spouting head 8. With reference to Figures 5 and 3, the water spouting head 8 has an outer cover 34, a head base 36, a swirl guide member 38, a nozzle member 40, a pressure adjustment member 42, and a screen member 44. The outer cover 34 constitutes the outer surface of the water spouting head 8. The head base 36 is not shown in Figure 5, but is shown in Figure 3. The head base 36 constitutes the portion of the main water supply passage 22 that leads to the spiral flow forming section 28. The swirl guide member 38 has the guide vanes 28a and constitutes the spiral flow forming section 28. The nozzle member 40 is fixed (screwed) to the head base 36 and constitutes the main water supply passage 22. The nozzle member 40 has a portion where the swirl guide member 38 is arranged, and constitutes the spiral flow forming section 28 together with the swirl guide member 38. The nozzle member 40 also constitutes the constricted portion 30.

The screen member 44 has a water discharge screen 46. The water discharge screen 46 is a disk-shaped portion. In this embodiment, the water discharge screen 46 is the water discharge hole arrangement portion 24. The first water discharge hole h1 and the second water discharge hole h2 pass through the water discharge screen 46. The water discharge screen 46 is an example of the water discharge hole arrangement portion 24.

As shown in FIG. 5, the water discharge head 8 has a rotation restricting member 48. After the nozzle member 40 is screwed into the head base 36, the rotation restricting member 48 is attached. The rotation preventing member 48 restricts the nozzle member 40 from rotating relative to the head base 36. When the screen member 44 is removed, the screen member 44 rotates relative to the nozzle member 40, but the rotation preventing member 48 prevents the nozzle member 40 from rotating together with the screen member 44.

Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the area X enclosed by the rectangular line in Figure 3. In Figure 6, the water flow (spiral flow SF1) in the spiral flow forming portion 28 and the constricted portion 30 is shown diagrammatically by dashed lines.

The swirling guide member 38 is fixed in a state where it cannot rotate. In other words, the guide vanes 28a are fixed and do not rotate. The stationary guide vanes 28a have a high guiding effect and effectively create the spiral flow SF1. The spiral flow forming section 28 (swirling guide member 38) also has a core 28c. The area around the core 28c is empty. The core 28c forms a conical flow path. The water flows around the core 28c, promoting the spiral flow SF1. This swirling guide effect and the offset effect generate a high-speed spiral flow SF1. This spiral flow SF1 causes cavitation and generates fine bubbles. The spiral flow forming section 28 and the constricted section 30 form the fine bubble generating section 27.

In this embodiment, fine bubbles are generated from dissolved air in water using the cavitation method, without drawing in air from the outside. Of course, the method of generating fine bubbles is not limited. There are many known methods for generating fine bubbles. Any method may be adopted.

Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the area Y enclosed by the square line in Figure 3. In Figure 7, the water flow (spiral flow SF2) at the first water outlet h1 is shown by a dashed line. The first water outlet h1 has a fine bubble atomization section 49. The fine bubble atomization section 49 has a spiral flow forming section 50 and a constricted section 52. The fine bubble atomization section 49 generates fine bubbles. As described below, the spiral flow forming section 50 is configured to form a spiral flow SF2. This spiral flow SF2 further refines the fine bubbles generated in the spiral flow SF1. The mist water form Mt discharged from the first water outlet h1 via this spiral flow SF2 is accompanied by the intake of air Ar. As described above, the mist water form Mt forms an empty cone, and air Ar is taken in from the center of this empty cone. This intake increases the number of fine bubbles.

In this embodiment, the fine bubble generating unit 27 and the fine bubble atomizing unit 49 are used in combination. This combination allows water containing fine bubbles to be discharged from both the first water discharge hole h1 and the second water discharge hole h2, and the fine bubbles contained in the water discharged from the first water discharge hole h1 can be made finer than the fine bubbles contained in the water discharged from the second water discharge hole h2. On the other hand, only either the fine bubble generating unit 27 or the fine bubble atomizing unit 49 may be provided. The fine bubble generating unit 27 and the fine bubble atomizing unit 49 can each generate fine bubbles.

The fine bubbles generated by the spiral flow SF1 (primary spiral flow) include microbubbles and ultrafine bubbles. The fine bubbles generated by the spiral flow SF1 are broken down by the spiral flow SF2 (secondary spiral flow), increasing the proportion of ultrafine bubbles among the fine bubbles. Furthermore, the number of fine bubbles increases due to the inhalation of air Ar. The combined use of the spiral flow SF1 and the spiral flow SF2 can increase the number of ultrafine bubbles per milliliter of water.

As is well known, fine bubbles are air bubbles with a particle diameter of less than 100 μm, and the concept includes microbubbles and ultrafine bubbles. Microbubbles are air bubbles with a particle diameter of 1 μm or more and less than 100 μm. Ultrafine bubbles are air bubbles with a particle diameter of less than 1 μm.

Figure 8(a) is a perspective view of the pressure adjustment member 42 seen from above, Figure 8(b) is a plan view of the pressure adjustment member 42, Figure 8(c) is a side view of the pressure adjustment member 42, Figure 8(d) is a perspective view of the pressure adjustment member 42 seen from below, and Figure 8(e) is a bottom view of the pressure adjustment member 42.

The pressure adjustment member 42 has a bottom surface portion 60, a side surface portion 62, a straightening protrusion 64, a first water supply hole s1, a second water supply hole s2, a slide engagement portion 66, and an insertion protrusion 68. The side surface portion 62 is a cylindrical portion. The side surface portion 62 extends upward from the periphery of the bottom surface portion 60. The side surface portion 62 has an upper end surface 62a. The straightening protrusion 64 protrudes upward from the upper surface of the bottom surface portion 60. A plurality of straightening protrusions 64 are provided. The straightening protrusions 64 straighten the water that is swirled at high speed and supplied to the storage space 32. The straightening protrusions 64 can contribute to the refinement of fine bubbles.

The first water supply hole s1 is a through hole that penetrates the pressure adjustment member 42 (bottom surface portion 60). A plurality of first water supply holes s1 are provided. The first water supply holes s1 are provided at a plurality of positions in the circumferential direction of the pressure adjustment member 42. The first water supply holes s1 are evenly distributed in the circumferential direction of the pressure adjustment member 42. The second water supply hole s2 is a through hole that penetrates the pressure adjustment member 42. The second water supply hole s2 is located near the boundary between the bottom surface portion 60 and the side surface portion 62. A plurality of second water supply holes s2 are provided. In the radial direction of the pressure adjustment member 42, the second water supply hole s2 is disposed outside the first water supply hole s1. The second water supply hole s2 is provided at a plurality of positions in the circumferential direction of the pressure adjustment member 42. The second water supply holes s2 are evenly distributed in the circumferential direction of the pressure adjustment member 42. The slide engagement portion 66 opens on the lower surface of the bottom surface portion 60. The slide engagement portion 66 is a recess that opens toward the bottom side. The slide engagement portion 66 is provided at the center of the bottom surface portion 60. The insertion protrusions 68 protrude toward the bottom side from the lower surface of the bottom surface portion 60. A plurality of insertion protrusions 68 are provided. The shape of the insertion protrusions 68 is approximately conical (a cone with a rounded tip).

Figure 9(a) is a perspective view of the screen member 44 seen from above, Figure 9(b) is a plan view of the screen member 44, Figure 9(c) is a side view of the screen member 44, Figure 9(d) is a perspective view of the screen member 44 seen from below, and Figure 9(e) is a bottom view of the screen member 44.

The screen member 44 has a bottom surface portion 70, a side surface portion 72, a slide engagement portion 74, a first water discharge hole h1, and a second water discharge hole h2. The side surface portion 72 is a cylindrical portion. The side surface portion 72 extends upward from the periphery of the bottom surface portion 70. The bottom surface portion 70 is a water discharge screen. The water discharge screen 70 is the water discharge hole arrangement portion 24 described above. The first water discharge hole h1 is a through hole that penetrates the water discharge screen 70 (water discharge hole arrangement portion 24). A plurality of first water discharge holes h1 are provided. The first water discharge holes h1 are provided at a plurality of positions in the circumferential direction of the screen member 44. The first water discharge holes h1 are evenly distributed in the circumferential direction of the screen member 44. The second water discharge hole h2 is a through hole that penetrates the screen member 44. In the radial direction of the water discharge screen 70 (water discharge hole arrangement section 24), the second water discharge hole h2 is located outside the first water discharge hole h1. Multiple second water discharge holes h2 are provided. The second water discharge holes h2 are provided at multiple positions in the circumferential direction of the water discharge screen 70. The second water discharge holes h2 are evenly distributed in the circumferential direction of the water discharge screen 70 (water discharge hole arrangement section 24). The slide engagement section 74 is a convex portion that protrudes upward from the top surface of the water discharge screen 70. The slide engagement section 74 is provided in the center of the water discharge screen 70.

The pressure adjustment member 42 is arranged in a movable state. The pressure adjustment member 42 is placed on the upper side of the screen member 44. The pressure adjustment member 42 forms a partition between the water discharge hole arrangement section 24 and the storage space 32. As shown in FIG. 7, the slide engagement section 74 (convex section) of the screen member 44 is inserted into the slide engagement section 66 (concave section) of the pressure adjustment member 42. The engagement between the slide engagement section 66 and the slide engagement section 74 restricts the pressure adjustment member 42 from moving in the radial direction relative to the screen member 44. In addition, the rotation of the pressure adjustment member 42 relative to the screen member 44 is restricted. On the other hand, the pressure adjustment member 42 is allowed to move in the axial direction (up and down direction) relative to the screen member 44. Note that the radial direction and axial direction here refer to the radial direction and axial direction of the pressure adjustment member 42.

When no external force other than gravity is acting on the pressure adjustment member 42, the pressure adjustment member 42 will lower due to gravity or the like to a position where it is supported by the screen member 44. Figure 7 shows the screen member 44 in this lowered state. On the other hand, when an upward external force is applied to the pressure adjustment member 42, the pressure adjustment member 42 may move upward. In other words, when an external force of a predetermined magnitude or greater is applied, the pressure adjustment member 42 may move in a direction away from the screen member 44. This movement is also referred to as the "float" of the pressure adjustment member 42. The width of this float is regulated to a predetermined width.

As shown in FIG. 7, the first water discharge hole h1 has an inlet opening h11, an outlet opening h12, and an inner hole space h13. The inner hole space h13 is the inner hole space of the first water discharge hole h1. To distinguish it from the inner hole space of the second water discharge hole h2, the inner hole space h13 is also called the first inner hole space h13. The inlet opening h11 is formed on the inner surface (upper surface) of the water discharge screen 70. The outlet opening h12 is formed on the outer surface (lower surface) of the water discharge screen 70. The first inner hole space h13 is formed between the inlet opening h11 and the outlet opening h12.

The second water discharge hole h2 has an inlet opening h21, an outlet opening h22, and an inner hole space h23. To distinguish it from the first inner hole space h13, the inner hole space h23 is also called the second inner hole space h23. The inlet opening h21 is formed on the inner surface (upper surface) of the water discharge screen 70. The outlet opening h22 is formed on the outer surface (lower surface) of the water discharge screen 70. The second inner hole space h23 is formed between the inlet opening h21 and the outlet opening h22.

As shown in FIG. 7, the second water discharge hole h2 forms a conical concave surface. The cross-sectional area of the second water discharge hole h2 decreases as it approaches the outlet opening h22. As shown in FIG. 9(b), the inlet opening h21 is circular. As shown in FIG. 9(e), the outlet opening h22 is circular.

As shown in FIG. 9(e), the outlet opening h12 is circular. On the other hand, the inlet opening h11 is not circular. As shown in FIG. 9(b) and FIG. 9(e), a plurality (12) of first water discharge holes h1 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the water discharge screen 70. As shown in the enlarged view of FIG. 9(b), the (single) inlet opening h11 has a central portion 80 and an outward extension portion 82. The central portion 80 is circular. A plurality of outward extension portions 82 are provided. The outward extension portions 82 extend from a plurality of locations (two locations) in the circumferential direction of the central portion 80 toward the outside of the central portion 80. The extension direction of the outward extension portion 82 is approximately along the tangential direction of the central portion 80.

As described above, the first water discharge hole h1 has a spiral flow forming portion 50 and a constricted portion 52 (see FIG. 7). The spiral flow forming portion 50 constitutes the inlet side portion of the first water discharge hole h1. As shown in FIG. 7, the spiral flow forming portion 50 has a swirling flow guiding portion 50a and a conical surface portion 50b. The conical surface portion 50b is adjacent to the swirling flow guiding portion 50a. The conical surface portion 50b is located downstream of the swirling flow guiding portion 50a. The swirling flow guiding portion 50a forms the inlet opening h11. The shape of the swirling flow guiding portion 50a is reflected in the shape of the inlet opening h11. Like the inlet opening h11, the swirling flow guiding portion 50a has a central portion 84 and an outward extension portion 86. The central portion 84 is cylindrical. A plurality of outward extension portions 86 are provided.

The outer extension portion 86 extends from multiple locations (two locations) on the outer periphery of the central portion 84 toward the outside of the central portion 84. The flow that enters the central portion 84 from the multiple outer extension portions 86 forms a single-direction swirling flow in the central portion 84. Each outer extension portion 86 extends so that the water that flows into the central portion 84 from the multiple outer extension portions 86 forms a single rotational spiral flow SF2 in the central portion 84. The spiral flow SF2 generated in the swirling flow guide portion 50a flows into the conical surface portion 50b. The cross-sectional area of the conical surface portion 50b is smaller than that of the central portion 84, and the flow rate of the spiral flow SF2 increases in the conical surface portion 50b. Furthermore, the cross-sectional area of the conical surface portion 50b becomes smaller as it approaches the outlet opening h12. Therefore, the flow rate of the spiral flow SF2 increases as it approaches the outlet opening h12. This high-speed spiral flow SF2 passes through the constriction 52 and is discharged as mist from the outlet opening h12. This high-speed spiral flow SF2 forms a cavity with negative pressure in the center of the spiral. The spiral flow SF2, which forms a cavity in the center, forms a hollow cone of water. This negative pressure also causes air Ar to be sucked in from the center of the spiral flow SF2. As a result, the mist water shape Mt is achieved, and mist containing a large number of ultra-fine bubbles is discharged.

Figure 10 is a plan view of the screen member 44 on which the pressure adjustment member 42 is placed, viewed from above. This plan view is a diagram in which FIG. 8(e) is inverted (left-right reversed) and superimposed on FIG. 9(b). That is, FIG. 10 is a diagram in which the lines on the upper surface of the screen member 44 are superimposed on the lines on the lower surface of the pressure adjustment member 42. This FIG. 10 shows the positional relationship between each part of the pressure adjustment member 42 and each part of the screen member 44. For ease of understanding, in FIG. 10, the pressure adjustment member 42 is shown with thicker lines than the screen member 44.

The position of the first water supply hole s1 of the pressure adjustment member 42 corresponds to the position of the end of the outward extension portion 86 in the swirling flow guide portion 50a of the first water discharge hole h1. The first water supply hole s1 is located above the end of the outward extension portion 86. One first water supply hole s1 has multiple (two) outward extension portions 86, and one first water supply hole s1 is arranged for each of these multiple (two) outward extension portions 86. Water flows from each of the first water supply holes into each of the ends of the outward extension portions 86. This water flows along each of the outward extension portions 86 and flows into the central portion 84. As a result, a spiral flow is effectively formed in the central portion 84.

As shown in FIG. 10, the position of the insertion protrusions 68 of the pressure adjustment member 42 corresponds to the position of the center 84 of the first water discharge hole h1. Each of the insertion protrusions 68 fits into each of the first water discharge holes h1. When the insertion protrusions 68 fit into the first hole space h13, a conical flow path is formed in the first hole space h13 (see FIG. 7). This conical flow path promotes the formation of the spiral flow SF2.

The phase relationship between the pressure adjustment member 42 and the screen member 44 is fixed in one way by the engagement between the slide engagement portion 66 and the slide engagement portion 74.

The pressure adjustment member 42 is a partition member located between the water discharge hole arrangement section 24 (water discharge screen 70) and the storage space 32. The partition does not need to be complete. Even if the partition is not complete, the pressure adjustment function (described below) of the pressure adjustment member 42 can be exerted. Even in this embodiment, the pressure adjustment member 42 does not completely separate the water discharge hole arrangement section 24 and the storage space 32, and a small gap exists. In addition, the pressure adjustment member 42 does not cover the portion (outer periphery) of the water discharge hole arrangement section 24 where the second water discharge hole h2 is located.

Figure 11 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the water discharge head 8. In Figure 11, the position of the cross section relative to the pressure adjustment member 42 and the screen member 44 is different from that in Figure 3. The cross section in Figure 11 passes through the second water supply hole s2.

The water discharge head 8 has a first auxiliary water supply passage f1 that supplies water from the storage space 32 to the first water discharge hole h1. In the enlarged portion of Figure 11, a line passing through the first auxiliary water supply passage f1 is shown by a dashed line. The first auxiliary water supply passage f1 runs from the storage space 32 through the first water supply hole s1 to the first water discharge hole h1. Although not shown by the dashed line in Figure 11, as described above, a spiral flow SF2 is formed at the first water discharge hole h1.

The water discharge head 8 has a second auxiliary water supply passage f2 that supplies water from the storage space 32 to the second water discharge hole h2. In the enlarged portion of FIG. 11, a line passing through the second auxiliary water supply passage f2 is shown by a two-dot chain line. The second auxiliary water supply passage f2 runs from the storage space 32 through the second water supply hole s2 to the second water discharge hole h2.

In this way, the first water supply hole s1, which is a part of the first auxiliary water supply passage f1, is formed by the pressure adjustment member 42. Also, the second water supply hole s2, which is a part of the second auxiliary water supply passage f2, is formed by the pressure adjustment member 42. In this embodiment, the first water supply hole s1, which is a through hole formed in the pressure adjustment member 42, constitutes a part of the first auxiliary water supply passage f1. Also, the second water supply hole s2, which is a through hole formed in the pressure adjustment member 42, constitutes a part of the second auxiliary water supply passage f2. In this configuration, the pressure loss of the first auxiliary water supply passage f1 and the second auxiliary water supply passage f2 can be easily and reliably set by the diameter (cross-sectional area), number (total cross-sectional area), bending, etc. of the through holes. However, a configuration other than a through hole may be adopted. For example, the first auxiliary water supply passage f1 and/or the second auxiliary water supply passage f2 may be formed by a gap between the pressure adjustment member 42 and an adjacent part.

The pressure adjustment member 42 sets the pressure loss of the first auxiliary water supply passage f1 by the first water supply hole s1. The pressure loss of the first auxiliary water supply passage f1 can be set by the diameter (cross-sectional area), length, number (total cross-sectional area), bending, etc. of the first water supply hole s1. The pressure adjustment member 42 sets the pressure loss of the second auxiliary water supply passage f2 by the second water supply hole s2. The pressure loss of the second auxiliary water supply passage f2 can be set by the diameter (cross-sectional area), length, number (total cross-sectional area), bending, etc. of the second water supply hole s2. In the pressure adjustment member 42, the first water supply hole s1 and the second water supply hole s2 are provided separately. Therefore, in the pressure adjustment member 42, the pressure loss of the first auxiliary water supply passage f1 and the pressure loss of the second auxiliary water supply passage f2 are set individually. Therefore, the pressure adjustment member 42 can adjust both the water pressure P1 in the first hole space h13 and the water pressure P2 in the second hole space h23.

The member 42 sets the flow rate of the first auxiliary water supply passage f1 by the first water supply hole s1. The flow rate of the first auxiliary water supply passage f1 can be set by the diameter (cross-sectional area), length, number (total cross-sectional area), bending, etc. of the first water supply hole s1. The member 42 sets the flow rate of the second auxiliary water supply passage f2 by the second water supply hole s2. The flow rate of the second auxiliary water supply passage f2 can be set by the diameter (cross-sectional area), length, number (total cross-sectional area), bending, etc. of the second water supply hole s2. In the member 42, the first water supply hole s1 and the second water supply hole s2 are provided separately. Therefore, in the member 42, the flow rate of the first auxiliary water supply passage f1 and the flow rate of the second auxiliary water supply passage f2 are each set individually. Therefore, the water discharge amount of the first water discharge hole h1 and the water discharge amount of the second water discharge hole h2 can each be adjusted. The member 42 allows the ratio between the amount of water discharged from the first water discharge hole h1 and the amount of water discharged from the second water discharge hole h2 to be changed compared to when the member 42 is not present. The member 42 also functions as a flow rate adjustment member.

When the water pressure is different in the first hole space h13, the water pressure P1 in the first hole space h13 can be the water pressure at the inlet opening h11. When the water pressure is different in the second hole space h23, the water pressure P2 in the second hole space h23 can be the water pressure at the inlet opening h21.

The first water discharge hole h1 is different from the second water discharge hole h2. That is, the first water discharge hole h1 and the second water discharge hole h2 have different hole specifications. The hole specifications are, for example, the hole diameter, the hole length, the vertical cross-sectional shape of the hole, the horizontal cross-sectional shape of the hole, etc. In this way, holes with different specifications can be arranged in the same water discharge hole arrangement section. Water is discharged in different forms from holes with different specifications. The form of water discharge is, for example, the water shape, water pressure, flow rate, etc. The coexistence of water discharges with different forms increases the design freedom of water discharge.

When holes with different specifications coexist, there is an appropriate water pressure for each of these holes. If the water pressure in a hole with certain specifications is insufficient or too high, water will not be discharged properly from that hole. It is preferable that water be supplied at an appropriate water pressure to each hole with different specifications.

However, if water is supplied to these holes from the same flow path, the water will flow into the hole with the smaller pressure loss, making it difficult to adjust the water pressure appropriately for each hole. As a result, some holes may not achieve the desired water shape.

By providing the pressure adjustment member 42, the water pressure P1 in the first hole space and the water pressure P2 in the second hole space can be adjusted. Thus, the water pressure can be adjusted appropriately for each hole. For example, when the pressure loss of the first water outlet hole h1 is different from the pressure loss of the second water outlet hole h2, the pressure adjustment member 42 can regulate the first auxiliary water supply passage f1 and the second auxiliary water supply passage f2 so as to reduce (make smaller) the difference between these pressure losses. This regulation is achieved, for example, by the design of the first water supply hole s1 and the second water supply hole s2. The pressure adjustment member 42 regulates the first auxiliary water supply passage f1 and the second auxiliary water supply passage f2 so as to reduce the difference between the pressure loss of the first water outlet hole h1 and the pressure loss of the second water outlet hole h2.

In the above embodiment, the pressure loss of the first water outlet hole h1 is greater than the pressure loss of the second water outlet hole h2. Therefore, water flows to the second water outlet hole h2 side, and the water pressure P1 of the first water outlet hole h1 is likely to be insufficient. If the water pressure P1 is insufficient, the appropriate mist water shape Mt cannot be obtained. Therefore, the water shape is disturbed, specifically, the water does not become conical, and the mist is not generated properly. In addition, the flow rate of the spiral flow SF2 decreases, and the density of the ultrafibers may decrease. By providing a pressure adjustment member 42 and regulating the flow of the second auxiliary water supply passage f2, the water pressure P1 can be made appropriate, and an appropriate mist water shape Mt can be obtained. The flow of the second auxiliary water supply passage f2 is appropriately regulated by the second water supply hole s2, which has a small cross-sectional area.

The magnitude relationship between the pressure loss of the first water discharge hole h1 and the pressure loss of the second water discharge hole h2 can be determined by applying a single water pressure from the upstream side to the water discharge hole arrangement section 24. In the above embodiment, this determination is possible by discharging water with the pressure adjustment member 42 removed. The magnitude relationship can be determined by comparing the flow rate of water discharged from the first water discharge hole h1 with the flow rate of water discharged from the second water discharge hole h2. The hole with the higher water discharge flow rate has a smaller pressure loss. When there are multiple first water discharge holes h1 and second water discharge holes h2 as in the above embodiment, the flow rate of water discharged from all first water discharge holes h1 is compared with the flow rate of water discharged from all second water discharge holes h2.

The pressure loss of the first water discharge hole h1 can be adjusted by the hole diameter (cross-sectional area of the hole), the hole length, the number of holes (total cross-sectional area of the holes), the curvature of the holes, etc. The same applies to the pressure loss of the second water discharge hole h2.

When the pressure loss of the second water outlet hole is smaller than the pressure loss of the first water outlet hole, the pressure loss of the second auxiliary water supply passage can be made larger than the pressure loss of the first auxiliary water supply passage. This allows more water to flow into the first water outlet hole, which has a larger pressure loss, and the balance between water pressure P1 and water pressure P2 can be made appropriate. As a result, the water pressure P1 of the first water outlet hole becomes appropriate, and the intended water shape is obtained at the first water outlet hole and the second water outlet hole.

In the above embodiment, the pressure loss in the second auxiliary water supply passage f2 is greater than the pressure loss in the first auxiliary water supply passage f1. In other words, the pressure loss in the first auxiliary water supply passage f1 is less than the pressure loss in the second auxiliary water supply passage f2. This makes it possible to increase the amount of water flowing into the first water outlet hole h1, which has a large pressure loss, and to prevent a decrease in water pressure P1. As a result, an appropriate spiral flow SF2 and mist water shape Mt are obtained.

The magnitude relationship between the pressure loss of the first water supply hole s1 and the pressure loss of the second water supply hole s2 can be determined by applying a single water pressure from the upstream side to the pressure adjustment member 42. In the above embodiment, this determination is possible by passing water through the water discharge hole arrangement section 24 (water discharge screen 70) with the water discharge hole arrangement section 24 (water discharge screen 70) removed. The magnitude relationship can be determined by comparing the flow rate of water discharged from the first water supply hole s1 with the flow rate of water discharged from the second water supply hole s2. The water supply hole with the higher flow rate has a smaller pressure loss. When there are multiple first water supply holes s1 and second water supply holes s2 as in the above embodiment, the flow rate of water discharged from all first water supply holes s1 is compared with the flow rate of water discharged from all second water supply holes s2.

The pressure adjustment member 42 is arranged in a movable state. As described above, the pressure adjustment member 42 can float. "Float" means that the pressure adjustment member 42 moves in a direction away from the water discharge hole arrangement portion 24. The pressure adjustment member 42 can move in a direction toward or away from the water discharge hole arrangement portion 24. In this embodiment, this direction is the up-down direction. The slide engagement portion 66 slides relative to the slide engagement portion 74, causing the pressure adjustment member 42 to move in the direction toward or away from the water discharge hole arrangement portion 24. Figure 7 shows a state in which the pressure adjustment member 42 is not floating. A gap g1 exists between the upper end surface 62a of the pressure adjustment member 42 and the adjacent portion. The pressure adjustment member 42 can float to a position where the upper end surface 62a abuts against the adjacent member. In other words, the pressure adjustment member 42 can float to a position where the gap g1 disappears.

Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the pressure adjustment member 42 in a floating state. Figure 12 is an enlarged view of the same area as Figure 7. However, the cross-sectional position in Figure 12 is different from that in Figure 7. Figure 12 shows the pressure adjustment member 42 in its raised most state. That is, in Figure 12, the pressure adjustment member 42 has floated to a position where there is no gap g1. In Figure 12, the gap g1 is zero. In Figure 12, the pressure adjustment member 42 has moved to the limit of its movable range. The movable range of the pressure adjustment member 42 is between the state in Figure 7 and the state in Figure 12.

When the pressure adjustment member 42 is floating, a gap g2 is formed between the water discharge hole arrangement section 24 (water discharge screen 70) and the pressure adjustment member 42. This gap g2 forms a bypass flow path b1. When the pressure adjustment member 42 is not floating, there is a part where the water discharge hole arrangement section 24 (water discharge screen 70) and the pressure adjustment member 42 are in contact at a position between the first water discharge hole h1 and the second water discharge hole h2. When the pressure adjustment member 42 floats, this abutting part separates. The bypass flow path b1 becomes a flow path that directly connects the first water discharge hole h1 and the second water discharge hole h2. The bypass flow path b1 is formed between the upper surface (inner surface) of the water discharge hole arrangement section 24 (water discharge screen 70) and the lower surface of the pressure adjustment member 42. The bypass flow path b1 is a flow path that does not pass through the through hole of the pressure adjustment member 42. The larger the floating amount of the pressure adjustment member 42, the larger the width of the gap g2 (bypass flow path b1). In other words, as the pressure adjustment member 42 moves in a direction away from the water discharge hole arrangement portion 24 (water discharge screen 70), the gap g2 (bypass flow path b1) expands.

In a situation where there is a difference between water pressure P1 and water pressure P2, if a bypass flow path b1 exists, water will flow through this bypass flow path b1 from the higher water pressure to the lower water pressure. The bypass flow path b1 leaks the higher of the water pressures P1 and P2 to the lower pressure. The existence of the bypass flow path b1 reduces the difference between water pressure P1 and water pressure P2.

As described above, the pressure adjustment member 42 can increase the amount of water supplied to the first water outlet hole h1, which has a larger pressure loss, and ensure the water pressure P1. However, if the water pressure (water supply pressure) applied from the main water supply line 22 fluctuates, the situation may change. Even if the water pressure P1 is appropriately set at a certain water supply pressure by adjusting the first auxiliary water supply line f1 and the second auxiliary water supply line f2, the water pressure P1 may become excessive at a higher water supply pressure. This water supply pressure changes depending on the amount of water discharged from the water discharge device (faucet). In this embodiment, when the lever handle 6 is operated to change the amount of water discharged, the water supply pressure changes. If the water pressure P1 falls outside the appropriate range by changing the amount of water discharged, the water shape will be disturbed by the amount of water discharged. Therefore, an appropriate water shape can only be obtained in the range of a specific water supply pressure. It is preferable to obtain a stable and appropriate water shape in response to changes in the amount of water discharged.

The pressure adjustment member 42 becomes more likely to float as the water pressure P1 increases. When the water pressure P1 becomes excessive, if a bypass flow path b1 is formed, water will use this bypass flow path b1 to flow from the first water discharge hole h1 to the second water discharge hole h2 (see the arrow in Figure 12). The bypass flow path b1 releases excess pressure in the first water discharge hole h1 (first hole space h13) to the second water discharge hole h2 (second hole space h23). The bypass flow path b1 can adjust the water pressure P1 and the water pressure P2 in response to changes in the water supply pressure (water discharge volume). The movable pressure adjustment member 42 can adjust the water pressure P1 and the water pressure P2 in response to changes in the water supply pressure (water discharge volume).

Each of the first water outlet hole h1 and the second water outlet hole h2 has a suitable water pressure range in which appropriate water discharge (water shape) can be obtained. That is, each of the water pressures P1 and P2 has a suitable water pressure range. In the above embodiment, the mist hole, which is the first water outlet hole h1, has a narrower suitable water pressure range than the shower hole, which is the second water outlet hole h2. The first water outlet hole h1 (mist hole) has a narrower suitable water pressure range than the second water outlet hole h2 (shower hole). In the above embodiment, the pressure adjustment member 42 sets the pressure loss of the auxiliary water supply passages f1 and f2 to increase the flow rate to the first water outlet hole h1, and when the water supply pressure increases, water flows from the first water outlet hole h1 to the second water outlet hole h2 through the bypass flow passage b1. Therefore, even if the water supply pressure (water discharge amount) changes, it is possible to keep the water pressure P1 within the narrow suitable water pressure range, and a stable mist water shape can be obtained.

As shown in FIG. 7, in the above embodiment, the first water discharge hole h1 is located below the pressure adjustment member 42, while the second water discharge hole h2 is located away from the bottom of the pressure adjustment member 42. The first hole space h13 is located below the pressure adjustment member 42. In contrast, the second hole space h23 is located at a location away from the bottom of the pressure adjustment member 42. Water pressures P1 and P2 can affect the floating behavior of the pressure adjustment member 42, but the influence of water pressure P1 is smaller than the influence of water pressure P2. When the water pressure P1 increases, the pressure applied to the pressure adjustment member 42 from below increases, and the pressure adjustment member 42 may float up. The water discharge head 8 is configured so that the pressure adjustment member 42 floats up due to an increase in water pressure P1. When the water pressure difference (P1-P2) increases, the pressure adjustment member 42 floats up. When the water pressure P1 becomes larger than the water pressure P2, the pressure adjustment member 42 is configured to move in a direction away from the water discharge hole arrangement portion 24 (water discharge screen 70). When the water pressure P1 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the pressure adjustment member 42 floats up. When the water supply pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold, the pressure adjustment member 42 floats up. The water supply pressure can be defined as the water pressure in the storage space 32.

The threshold water supply pressure when the pressure adjustment member 42 floats can be set appropriately based on the purpose of the water discharge head 8 and the degree of water shape formation by the first water discharge hole h1. This threshold water supply pressure can be set to a water supply pressure when the water discharge volume is smaller than the maximum value and is used frequently. For example, this threshold water supply pressure can be set to 0.01 MPa or more and 0.3 MPa or less, or even 0.02 MPa or more and 0.25 MPa or less, or even 0.05 MPa or more and 0.15 MPa or less. A water discharge head 8 having this threshold can be suitably used in kitchens, washrooms, bathrooms, etc.

Factors that determine whether the pressure adjustment member 42 floats include the pressure from the upper side (upstream side) of the pressure adjustment member 42 (pressure from the storage space 32), gravity, buoyancy, and the pressure from the lower side (downstream side) of the pressure adjustment member 42. The pressure from the lower side includes the pressure from the water pressure P1. Factors other than gravity can change depending on the water supply pressure. The water pressure P1 can change depending on the flow rate of the spiral flow SF2. It is difficult to quantitatively and accurately grasp the conditions under which the pressure adjustment member 42 floats. However, this condition can be grasped by moderate experiments without requiring excessive experiments. By adjusting the factors that increase the force in the floating direction (upward) and the factors that increase the force in the non-floating direction (downward), it is possible to design a pressure adjustment member 42 that floats at the desired water supply pressure. Specific adjustment items include the diameter and number of the first water supply hole s1, the weight of the pressure adjustment member 42, the volume of the pressure adjustment member 42, and the specific gravity of the pressure adjustment member 42.

In the above embodiment, the bypass flow path b1 is formed even when the pressure adjustment member 42 is not floating. As shown in the enlarged portion of FIG. 7, a (tiny) gap g2 is formed between the water discharge hole arrangement portion 24 (water discharge screen 70) and the pressure adjustment member 42. This gap g2 forms the bypass flow path b1. The cross-sectional area of this bypass flow path b1 (the width of the gap g2) is smaller than when the pressure adjustment member 42 is floating. As shown in FIG. 8(d) and FIG. 8(e), the pressure adjustment member 42 has an abutment protrusion 69 on its underside that abuts against the water discharge hole arrangement portion 24 (water discharge screen 70). The abutment protrusion 69 forms the bypass flow path b1 even when the pressure adjustment member 42 is not floating. When the pressure adjustment member 42 is not floating, the bypass flow path b1 does not need to be formed.

In this way, at least when the pressure adjustment member 42 moves in a direction away from the water discharge hole arrangement section 24, a bypass flow path b1 is formed between the pressure adjustment member 42 and the water discharge hole arrangement section 24. The bypass flow path b1 is a flow path that directly connects the first water discharge hole h1 and the second water discharge hole h2 without going through the pressure adjustment member 42. The bypass flow path b1 is formed between the pressure adjustment member 42 and the water discharge hole arrangement section 24. The greater the amount of movement of the pressure adjustment member 42 in the direction away from the water discharge hole arrangement section 24 (the amount of floating of the pressure adjustment member 42), the more the bypass flow path b1 expands. The bypass flow path b1 can expand and contract according to the water pressure P1. The moving pressure adjustment member 42 acts like a relief valve. The moving pressure adjustment member 42 can adjust the water pressure P1 according to the water supply pressure.

The movable distance D1 (see FIG. 7) of the pressure adjusting member 42 is not limited. The movable distance D1 can be set appropriately, taking into consideration the conditions of the water discharged from the first water discharge hole h1 (water shape, etc.). If this movable distance is excessively large, the stability of the pressure P1 when the pressure adjusting member 42 floats up may decrease. From this viewpoint, the movable distance D1 can be set to 0.5 mm or less, further 0.4 mm or less, or even 0.3 mm or less. From the viewpoint of ensuring the effect of the bypass flow path b1, the movable distance D1 can be set to 0.15 mm or more, further 0.2 mm or more, or even 0.25 mm or more. In the above embodiment, the movable distance D1 is set to 0.25 mm. In the above embodiment, the gap g1 (FIG. 7) when the pressure adjusting member 42 is not floating corresponds to the movable distance D1.

The number of first water outlet holes h1 may be one or more. In the above embodiment, there are multiple first water outlet holes h1. A mist hole group in which multiple mist holes are arranged circumferentially creates a mist flow containing a large number of ultra-fine bubbles. This mist flow enhances cleaning power.

The number of second water discharge holes h2 may be one or more. In the above embodiment, there are multiple second water discharge holes h2. Multiple second water discharge holes h2 are arranged on a circumference to form a shower hole group. This shower hole group forms a shower water form Sw. Multiple second water discharge holes h2 are arranged on the peripheral side of the water discharge hole arrangement section 24 (water discharge screen 70) relative to the first water discharge holes h1 (mist holes). As shown in FIG. 12, the shower water form Sw covers the outside of the mist water form Mt. The shower water form Sw acts as a curtain to reduce splashing (excessive diffusion) of the mist water form Mt.

The water discharge member of the present disclosure can advantageously discharge multiple water forms simultaneously. By combining the roles of each water form, good water discharge overall can be achieved. In the above embodiment, mist water form Mt and shower water form Sw are discharged simultaneously. As described above, simultaneous discharge of mist water form Mt and shower water form Sw can reduce splashing of mist water form Mt. When only mist water form Mt is discharged, the sensation of the discharged water hitting the user may be too weak. Furthermore, when only mist water form Mt is discharged, the amount of water discharged may be too small, making it difficult to wash away bubbles and dirt, or the water heater may not work. Simultaneous discharge of mist water form Mt and shower water form Sw can solve these problems.

In FIG. 12, the reference symbol CL indicates the center line of the water discharge hole arrangement section 24 (screen member 44). In FIG. 12, the reference symbol L1 indicates the center line of the first water discharge hole h1. In FIG. 12, the reference symbol L2 indicates the center line of the second water discharge hole h2. The center line L2 faces outward. That is, as the water discharge distance increases, the center line L2 moves away from the center line CL. On the other hand, the center line L1 faces inward. That is, as the water discharge distance increases, the center line L1 approaches the center line CL. These configurations provide an appropriate shower spray angle and improve the cleaning power of the mist water discharge.

In the above embodiment, water is discharged simultaneously from both the first water discharge hole h1 and the second water discharge hole h2. The water discharge member of the present disclosure may further have a switching mechanism that selects a water discharge hole and switches the water shape. This switching mechanism is known in sprinkler nozzles and the like, and this known switching mechanism may be used, for example. In a water discharge member having this switching mechanism, the switching of water discharge may include two ways: (1) water discharge only from the first water discharge hole h1, and (2) water discharge only from the second water discharge hole h2. In addition, the switching of water discharge may include three ways: (1) water discharge only from the first water discharge hole h1, (2) water discharge only from the second water discharge hole h2, and (3) water discharge from both the first water discharge hole h1 and the second water discharge hole h2.

In addition to the first water discharge hole h1 and the second water discharge hole h2, a third water discharge hole may be provided. In this case, the water discharge may be switched in two ways: (1) water discharge from only the first water discharge hole h1 and the second water discharge hole h2, or (2) water discharge from only the third water discharge hole h3.

Materials for the pressure adjusting member 42 include resin and metal. From the viewpoint of floating of the pressure adjusting member 42, the weight and specific gravity of the pressure adjusting member 42 are suitably set. From this viewpoint, the material for the pressure adjusting member 42 is preferably resin. From the viewpoint of moldability, the material for the pressure adjusting member 42 is preferably resin. When the material is resin, a thermoplastic resin that is easy to mold is preferable. From the viewpoint of moldability, polyoxymethylene (POM), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymer (ABS) and polypropylene (PP) are more preferable. If the pressure adjusting member 42 is deformed unevenly due to water pressure, the cross-sectional area of the bypass flow path b1 may vary, and the stability of the water discharge may decrease. In addition, the wear resistance of the pressure adjusting member 42 that moves back and forth during use is increased, thereby improving the operating accuracy. From the viewpoint of rigidity and wear resistance, polyoxymethylene (POM) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) is preferable, and polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) is particularly preferable.

The following notes are part of the invention contained in this disclosure.
[Appendix 1]
A first water discharge hole having a first hole space;
A second water discharge hole having a second hole space;
a water discharge hole arrangement portion in which the first water discharge hole and the second water discharge hole are provided;
A storage space provided upstream of the water discharge hole arrangement portion;
A main water supply channel including the storage space and supplying water to the storage space;
a pressure adjusting member forming a partition between the water discharge hole arrangement portion and the storage space;
A first auxiliary water supply passage that supplies water from the storage space toward the first water discharge hole;
A second auxiliary water supply passage that supplies water from the storage space toward the second water discharge hole;
It has
At least a portion of the first auxiliary water supply passage and at least a portion of the second auxiliary water supply passage are formed by the pressure adjustment member,
A water discharge member in which the pressure adjustment member individually sets the pressure loss of the first auxiliary water supply passage and the pressure loss of the second auxiliary water supply passage.
[Appendix 2]
A first water discharge hole having a first hole space;
A second water discharge hole having a second hole space;
a water discharge hole arrangement portion in which the first water discharge hole and the second water discharge hole are provided;
A storage space provided upstream of the water discharge hole arrangement portion;
A main water supply channel including the storage space and supplying water to the storage space;
a pressure adjusting member forming a partition between the water discharge hole arrangement portion and the storage space;
A first auxiliary water supply passage that supplies water from the storage space toward the first water discharge hole;
A second auxiliary water supply passage that supplies water from the storage space toward the second water discharge hole;
It has
At least a portion of the first auxiliary water supply passage and at least a portion of the second auxiliary water supply passage are formed by the pressure adjustment member,
A water discharge member in which the pressure adjustment member regulates the first auxiliary water supply passage and the second auxiliary water supply passage so as to reduce the difference between the pressure loss of the first water discharge hole and the pressure loss of the second water discharge hole.
[Appendix 3]
A water-discharging member as described in Appendix 1 or 2, wherein the pressure adjustment member has a first water supply hole that constitutes part of the first auxiliary water supply passage and a second water supply hole that constitutes part of the second auxiliary water supply passage.
[Appendix 4]
The pressure loss of the second water discharge hole is smaller than the pressure loss of the first water discharge hole,
A water-discharge member as described in Appendix 3, wherein the pressure loss of the second water supply hole is greater than the pressure loss of the first water supply hole.
[Appendix 5]
5. The water-discharge member according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the pressure adjustment member is arranged in a state in which it can move in a direction toward or away from the water-discharge hole arrangement portion.
[Appendix 6]
A water-discharge member as described in Appendix 5, wherein the pressure adjustment member is configured to move in a direction away from the water discharge hole arrangement portion when the water supply pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold value.
[Appendix 7]
The first hole space is located below the pressure adjustment member,
A water-discharge member as described in appendix 5 or 6, wherein the second hole space is located away from the underside of the pressure adjustment member.
[Appendix 8]
The number of the first water discharge holes is one or more,
The number of the second water discharge holes is plural,
The first water discharge hole is a mist hole that forms a mist,
A water-discharge member as described in any one of appendices 1 to 7, wherein the plurality of second water-discharge holes are shower holes arranged on the peripheral side of the water-discharge hole arrangement portion relative to the mist holes and form a shower water shape.
[Appendix 9]
A water-spitting member described in any one of appendix 1 to 8, wherein the main water supply passage has a fine bubble generating section including a spiral flow forming section and a constricted section.
[Appendix 10]
A water-spill member described in any one of appendix 1 to 9, wherein the first water-spill hole has a fine bubble atomization section including a spiral flow forming section and a constricted section.
[Appendix 11]
A water discharge device comprising a water discharge member according to any one of claims 1 to 10, a water discharge volume adjustment mechanism, and an operating unit capable of adjusting the water discharge volume.

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

Each of the forms, components, configurations, etc. shown in each of the above embodiments may be individually applied to all of the inventions described in this application, including the inventions claimed in this application, even if not all of the forms, components, or configurations of these embodiments are present.

Description of the Reference Signs 2: Water discharge member 4: Main body 6: Lever handle 8: Water discharge head 22: Main water supply channel 24: Water discharge hole arrangement section 27: Fine bubble generation section 28: Spiral flow forming section of main water supply channel 30: Narrowed section of main water supply channel 32: Storage space 42: Pressure adjustment member 44: Screen member 49: Fine bubble atomization section 50: Spiral flow forming section of first water discharge hole 52: Narrowed section of first water discharge hole 70: Water discharge screen s1: First water supply hole s2: Second water supply hole h1: First water discharge hole h11: Inlet opening h12: Outlet opening h13: First hole internal space h2: Second water discharge hole h21: Inlet opening h22: Outlet opening h23: Second hole internal space f1: First auxiliary water supply channel f2: Second auxiliary water supply channel b1: Bypass flow path SF1: Spiral flow formed in the main water supply channel SF2: Spiral flow formed in the first water outlet

Claims (11)

A first water discharge hole having a first hole space;
A second water discharge hole having a second hole space;
a water discharge hole arrangement portion in which the first water discharge hole and the second water discharge hole are provided;
A storage space provided upstream of the water discharge hole arrangement portion;
A main water supply channel including the storage space and supplying water to the storage space;
a pressure adjusting member forming a partition between the water discharge hole arrangement portion and the storage space;
A first auxiliary water supply passage that supplies water from the storage space toward the first water discharge hole;
A second auxiliary water supply passage that supplies water from the storage space toward the second water discharge hole;
It has
At least a portion of the first auxiliary water supply passage and at least a portion of the second auxiliary water supply passage are formed by the pressure adjustment member,
A water discharge member in which the pressure adjustment member individually sets the pressure loss of the first auxiliary water supply passage and the pressure loss of the second auxiliary water supply passage. A first water discharge hole having a first hole space;
A second water discharge hole having a second hole space;
a water discharge hole arrangement portion in which the first water discharge hole and the second water discharge hole are provided;
A storage space provided upstream of the water discharge hole arrangement portion;
A main water supply channel including the storage space and supplying water to the storage space;
a pressure adjusting member forming a partition between the water discharge hole arrangement portion and the storage space;
A first auxiliary water supply passage that supplies water from the storage space toward the first water discharge hole;
A second auxiliary water supply passage that supplies water from the storage space toward the second water discharge hole;
It has
At least a portion of the first auxiliary water supply passage and at least a portion of the second auxiliary water supply passage are formed by the pressure adjustment member,
A water discharge member in which the pressure adjustment member regulates the first auxiliary water supply passage and the second auxiliary water supply passage so as to reduce the difference between the pressure loss of the first water discharge hole and the pressure loss of the second water discharge hole. The water discharge member according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pressure adjustment member has a first water supply hole that constitutes part of the first auxiliary water supply passage and a second water supply hole that constitutes part of the second auxiliary water supply passage. The pressure loss of the second water discharge hole is smaller than the pressure loss of the first water discharge hole,
The water discharge member according to claim 3 , wherein a pressure loss in the second water supply hole is greater than a pressure loss in the first water supply hole. The water discharge member according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the pressure adjustment member is arranged in a state in which it can move in a direction toward or away from the water discharge hole arrangement portion. The water discharge member according to claim 5, which is configured so that when the water supply pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold, the pressure adjustment member moves in a direction away from the water discharge hole arrangement portion. The first hole space is located below the pressure adjustment member,
The water discharger member according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the second hole space is positioned at a position away from the lower side of the pressure adjustment member. The number of the first water discharge holes is one or more,
The number of the second water discharge holes is plural,
The first water discharge hole is a mist hole that forms a mist,
The water-discharge member according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the second water-discharge holes are shower holes that are arranged on the peripheral side of the water-discharge-hole arrangement section relative to the mist holes and form a shower water shape. The water discharge member according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the main water supply passage has a fine bubble generating section including a spiral flow forming section and a constricted section. The water-discharge member according to claim 9 , wherein the first water-discharge hole has a fine bubble atomizing section including a spiral flow forming section and a constricted section. A water discharge device comprising the water discharge member according to any one of claims 1 to 10, a water discharge volume adjustment mechanism, and an operating unit capable of adjusting the water discharge volume.

Images