JP7112670B2 - Water supply control device and faucet device - Google Patents

Description

Aspects of the present invention relate generally to water control systems and faucet systems.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there are a water supply control device capable of remotely controlling water supply by means of a foot switch provided at one's feet, and a faucet device having the same. By operating the foot switch with the user's foot, the user can switch the faucets of the sink, the washbasin, and the like between spouting and stopping water. According to this water supply control device, even when both hands are occupied or dirty, the faucet can be opened and closed by operating the foot switch with the foot, so that a user-friendly faucet device can be realized.

There are also devices that can realize multiple functions by operating a foot switch. For example, according to the technique disclosed in Patent Literature 1, by rotating and stepping on a foot switch provided at a specific position, it is possible to change the flow rate in addition to switching between spouting and stopping water.

JP 2011-52416 A

However, in plumbing equipment such as kitchens and washrooms, various operations are performed using faucets. The standing position of the user also changes with the work. That is, the positional relationship between the user's position and the foot switch when the user uses the faucet varies. As disclosed in Patent Literature 1, when water supply is controlled by turning and stepping on a foot switch, complicated foot operations are required, and these operations become difficult depending on the user's standing position.

The present invention has been made based on recognition of such problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a water supply control device and a water faucet device that can control water supply with a simpler operation.

A first invention comprises a foot switch operated by inserting a foot, a control unit for controlling water supply based on a signal from the foot switch, and a detection for detecting the horizontal position of the foot inserted into the foot switch. means, wherein the control unit is a water supply control device that controls water supply according to the position of the foot detected by the detection means when the foot switch is operated.

According to this water supply control device, when the foot switch is operated, water supply is controlled according to the position of the foot detected by the detection means. Therefore, the user does not need to operate the foot switch complicatedly with the tip of the foot in order to control the water supply. The user can easily control the water supply by simply changing the position of the foot switch while concentrating on the main work.

In a second aspect based on the first aspect, when the water supply is in the first state, the foot switch is operated and the detection means detects that the foot is inserted into the first position in the horizontal direction. Then, the control unit changes the water supply from the first state to the second state, and when the water supply is in the first state, the foot switch is operated and the foot is moved horizontally to the second state by the detection means. The controller is a water supply control device that changes the water supply from the first state to the third state when insertion into position is detected.

According to this water supply control device, when the water supply is in the first state, the user operates the foot switch at either the first position or the second position to switch the water supply state between the second state and the second state. It can be changed to one of three states. A user can more easily realize a desired water supply state.

In a third aspect based on the first aspect, the control unit is configured to set a plurality of operation areas along the foot switch, and controls water supply according to the operation area into which the foot is inserted. It is a control device.

The tip of the foot is not dexterous with the tip of the hand. For this reason, for example, if the water supply is controlled linearly according to the position where the foot is inserted, that is, if the water temperature and flow rate are controlled in detail with respect to the position where the foot is inserted, the water supply is controlled according to the user's intention. It may be set to not. According to this water supply control device, the operation area having a certain width is set by the control unit. Therefore, it becomes easier for the user to supply water as intended by manipulating the tip of the foot.

A fourth invention is the water supply control device according to the third invention, wherein the control unit controls water supply so as to supply different water flows according to the operation area into which the foot is inserted.

According to this water supply control device, the water flow can be selected by changing the operation area for inserting the foot, so it is convenient to use.

In a fifth aspect based on the third or fourth aspect, the control unit controls water supply so as to supply raw water, hot water, or purified water according to the operation area in which the foot is inserted. It is a control device.

According to this water supply control device, raw water, hot water, or purified water can be selected by changing the operation area for inserting the foot, which is convenient.

In a sixth invention, in any one of the third to fifth inventions, the control unit switches between water discharge and water stop, adjusts the flow rate, and adjusts the water temperature according to the operation area in which the foot is inserted. A water control device that controls the water supply to make any of the adjustments.

According to this water supply control device, by changing the operation area where the foot is inserted, it is possible to switch between water discharge and stop water, adjust the flow rate, or adjust the water temperature, so it is easy to use.

A seventh invention is the water supply control device according to any one of the third to sixth inventions, wherein the control section is configured to be able to change the position of the boundary between the adjacent operation areas.

If the standing position with respect to the foot switch changes, the foot insertion position also changes. According to this water supply control device, usability is improved by being able to change the boundary of the detection area.

In an eighth aspect based on the seventh aspect, the controller controls the position of the boundary based on the position of the foot detected by the detecting means when an operation to start water spouting is performed by the foot switch. It is a water supply control device that changes the

The standing position, posture, etc. of the user change according to the work. In accordance with this, the position where the user operates the foot switch also changes. According to this water supply control device, the range of the operation area is changed according to the position of the foot when the user operates the foot switch to start water spouting, so that regardless of the user's standing position, It becomes easy for the user to operate the water supply.

In a ninth aspect based on the eighth aspect, when the operation to start water spouting is performed, the control unit places the boundary at a position a predetermined distance or more away from the position of the foot detected by the detection means. is a water supply control device that sets

Even if the user intends to operate the foot switch at the same position as usual, the user may actually operate the foot switch at a different position depending on the user's standing position or posture. If the boundary between the operation areas is set near the position where the foot is inserted when the operation to start water spouting is performed, there is a possibility that the above-described change in the position of the foot may cause the user to perform an unintended operation. be. According to this water supply control device, since the boundary between the operation areas is set at a position a predetermined distance or more away from the position of the foot where the operation to start water discharge is performed, there is a possibility that an operation unintended by the user will be performed. can be reduced.

A tenth invention is the water supply control device according to the eighth invention, wherein the controller resets the position of the boundary when the water is stopped after the start of water discharge.

If the position of the boundary between the operation areas is set based on the position of the foot when the water discharge is started, and the position is maintained even after the water is stopped, the next time the user uses the device, an unintended error may occur. Water supply may be provided. According to this water supply control device, the position of the boundary is reset when water is stopped. Therefore, it is possible to suppress unintentional water supply when the user uses the device next time.

An eleventh invention is the water supply control device according to the eighth invention, wherein the controller changes the position of the boundary when a state in which the foot switch is not operated while water is being spouted passes for a first time.

According to this water supply control device, the boundary between the operation areas is changed according to the passage of time, so it is convenient to use.

In a twelfth aspect based on the eleventh aspect, the controller sets a part of the plurality of operation regions as a region for stopping water, and the controller operates the foot switch while water is being spouted. In the water supply control device, the range of the operation region for stopping the water is expanded when the non-water supply state has passed for the first time.

According to this water supply control device, when the water discharge state continues for some time, the water stop area is expanded, so that the user can easily stop the water without carefully aiming at the water stop operation area and operating it with his or her foot. become. For this reason, water can be stopped more quickly and easily, and it is easy to use.

In a thirteenth aspect based on the twelfth aspect, the controller stops water in the entire operation area when a second time period longer than the first time period elapses while the foot switch is not operated while water is being spouted. set as an area for

According to this water supply control device, if the water discharge state continues longer than the first time, the water can be stopped no matter where the foot switch is kicked, improving usability and safety (prevention of continuous water discharge). be able to.

In a fourteenth aspect based on the seventh aspect, the control section is configured to set the two operation areas in the horizontal direction, and the control section, when the water is stopped, sets the operation areas is set to a predetermined size, and when the foot switch is operated to start water discharge, the water supply control sets the boundary at a position at least a predetermined distance away from the position of the foot detected by the detection means. It is a device.

According to this water supply control device, in a relatively simple operation faucet in which two operation areas are set, by appropriately adjusting the boundary position according to the operation position for starting water discharge, two water supply operations can be performed. It is now possible to more reliably select one of the states, and it is convenient to use.

In a fifteenth aspect based on the seventh aspect, the control section is configured to set three or more of the operation areas in the horizontal direction, and the control section can perform an operation to start water spouting using the foot switch. The water supply control device sets the position of the boundary such that the center operation area is positioned at the position of the foot detected by the detection means when the operation is performed.

According to this water supply control device, since three operation areas are set, by changing the operation position of the foot switch, one of the three water supply states can be selected, enabling multi-functional control and usability. good. In addition, by setting the central operation area at the position where the foot is inserted during the operation to start water discharge, it becomes easy to grasp the three areas with the tip of the foot, and the operation area at the end can also be operated with the tip of the foot. easier and more convenient to use.

In a sixteenth aspect based on the fifteenth aspect, when an operation to start water spouting is performed by the foot switch, the control unit changes the central operation area to switch between water spouting and water stopping. It is a water supply control device that is set as an area.

According to this water supply control device, the central operation area is set as the most frequently used area for switching between water spouting and water stopping. This eliminates the need for the user to move the tip of the foot in the horizontal direction when the user wants to discharge or stop the water, which is convenient.

In a seventeenth invention based on the fifteenth invention, when an operation to start water spouting is performed by the foot switch, the control unit controls the left and right operation regions adjacent to the central operation region to flow rate It is a water supply control device that sets as a region for decreasing and increasing .

According to this water supply control device, the left and right operation regions are set as regions for changing the flow rate. The user can adjust the flow rate simply by operating the foot switch in these operation areas, which is convenient.

In an eighteenth aspect based on the fifteenth aspect, when an operation to start water spouting is performed, the control unit lowers and raises the temperatures of the left and right operation regions adjacent to the central operation region, respectively. It is a water supply control device that is set as an area for

According to this water supply control device, the left and right operation areas are set as areas for changing the water temperature. The user can adjust the water temperature simply by operating the foot switch in these operation areas, which is convenient.

A nineteenth aspect of the invention comprises a water discharger for discharging water, a foot switch operable to supply water to the water discharger and operated by inserting a foot, a flow path connecting a water supply source and the water discharger, an on-off valve provided in the flow path for opening and closing the flow path; a controller for operating the on-off valve based on a signal from the foot switch; and detecting a horizontal position of the foot inserted into the foot switch. and a detecting means for controlling water supply, wherein when the foot switch is operated, the control section operates the open/close valve according to the position of the foot detected by the detecting means to control water supply. be.

According to this faucet device, when the foot switch is operated, water supply is controlled according to the position of the foot detected by the detection means. Therefore, the user does not need to operate the foot switch complicatedly with the tip of the foot in order to control the water supply. The user can easily control the water supply by simply changing the position of the foot switch while concentrating on the main work.

ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to the aspect of this invention, the water supply control apparatus and faucet apparatus which can control water supply by simpler operation are provided.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is a perspective view showing the plumbing apparatus which has the faucet apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a perspective view showing a foot switch. It is a side view showing a foot switch. 4 is a graph illustrating characteristics of a detection means; It is a mimetic diagram showing composition of a faucet device concerning an embodiment. It is a mimetic diagram showing a part of composition of a faucet device concerning an embodiment. It is a schematic diagram explaining operation|movement by the control part of the faucet apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a schematic diagram explaining operation|movement by the control part of the faucet apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a schematic diagram explaining operation|movement by the control part of the faucet apparatus which concerns on embodiment. 4 is a table showing an example of setting of operation regions by a control unit; It is a schematic diagram explaining operation|movement by the control part of the faucet apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart showing operation|movement of the faucet apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a schematic diagram explaining operation|movement by the control part of the faucet apparatus which concerns on embodiment. 4 is a table showing an example of setting of operation regions by a control unit; It is a figure which illustrates the operation part of the faucet apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a mimetic diagram showing a part of composition of a faucet device concerning an embodiment. It is a schematic diagram explaining operation|movement by the control part of the faucet apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart showing operation|movement of the faucet apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart showing operation|movement of the faucet apparatus which concerns on embodiment.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, in each drawing, the same reference numerals are given to the same constituent elements, and detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing plumbing equipment having a faucet device according to an embodiment.
A plumbing device 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes a faucet device 1 according to the embodiment. A faucet device 1 includes a foot switch 10 and a water discharger 20 .

In the specification of the present application, the direction in which the user of the plumbing equipment 100 stands is referred to as the "front", and the opposite direction is referred to as the "rear". The directions perpendicular and horizontal to "forward" and "rearward" are defined as "leftward" and "rightward" respectively. Moreover, the upper side and the lower side as viewed from the user are referred to as "upper" and "lower", respectively.

The water discharger 20 is connected to a water supply source (not shown) and is configured to be able to discharge supplied water. The faucet device 1 may be configured to be able to spout hot water from the spouting portion 20 . The foot switch 10 is provided at the feet of the user of the plumbing equipment 100 . The foot switch 10 is a unit provided for performing a water supply operation for supplying water to the water discharger 20 with a foot. By operating the foot switch 10 , the user can switch between water discharge and water stop of the water discharge unit 20 . Furthermore, as will be described later, it is also possible to adjust the flow rate and water temperature of the spouted water, depending on the configuration of the members and the control method. The configuration of the plumbing device 100 other than the faucet device 1 is arbitrary. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the plumbing equipment 100 further includes a sink 90 for receiving water discharged from the water discharger 20, a counter 91 for placing objects, a cabinet 92 for storing objects, and the like. I have.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a foot switch.
FIG. 3 is a side view showing the footswitch.
As shown in FIG. 2, the foot switch 10 has a fixing member 11 and a kick plate 12 extending in the left-right direction. The fixing member 11 is a concave member with an open front, and is fixed to the plumbing equipment 100 . The kick-in plate 12 is provided inside the fixed member 11 and is configured to be movable in the front-rear direction with respect to the fixed member 11 .

As shown in FIG. 3, the foot switch 10 further has an elastic member 13 and a switch SW1. The elastic member 13 is provided between the inner surface 11 a of the fixing member 11 and the rear surface 12 a of the kick-in plate 12 . The user operates the foot switch 10 by inserting the tip of the foot inside the fixing member 11 and kicking (pushing backward) the kick plate 12 . When the kick-in plate 12 is kicked in, the switch SW1 provided on the back surface 11a of the fixed member 11 and the back surface 12a of the kick-in plate 12 come into contact, and the operation of the foot switch 10 is detected. When the kick-in plate 12 is not kicked in, the switches SW1 are separated from each other by the elastic force of the elastic member 13 .

The faucet device 1 further has detection means 30 . When the footswitch 10 is operated, the detecting means 30 detects the position of the foot that operates the footswitch 10 in the horizontal direction (lateral direction). The detection means 30 has a plurality of detection elements 31 to 39 arranged along the foot switch 10, as shown in FIG. 2, for example. The detection elements 31 to 39 are attached to the upper side of the fixed member 11. As shown in FIG. Each sensing element has a light projecting portion p and a light receiving portion r. The light projecting part p emits light downward. The light emitted from the light projecting portion p is reflected by the inner lower surface 11b of the fixing member 11 and enters the light receiving portion r. The lower surface 11b is mirror-finished, for example, to increase the reflectance.

FIG. 4 is a graph illustrating characteristics of the detection means.
In FIG. 4, the horizontal axis represents the position in the left-right direction. The vertical axis represents the amount of light received (intensity of reflected light) detected by each detection element. When the foot is inserted into the foot switch 10, the light emitted from the light projecting portion p is blocked by the foot and does not enter the lower surface 11b. The light reflected by the foot enters the light receiving portion r, but the amount of light received is smaller than when the light is reflected by the lower surface 11b. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4, the amount of received light detected by the detection element provided at the position where the foot is inserted is small.

For example, the amount of received light detected by the light receiving portion r of each detection element is compared with a predetermined threshold th. Then, it is determined that there is a foot at the position of the detection element where the amount of light received is less than the threshold value th. In the example shown in FIG. 4, it is determined that the foot is inserted at the position where the detection element 34 is provided. Alternatively, even if the amount of light received by the detection element 34 slightly exceeds the threshold value th, the magnitude of the amount of light received by the detection elements 33 and 35 and the arrangement of the elements 33 and 35 make an evaluation that "the position of the detection element 34 is the minimum". However, it may be determined that the foot is inserted into the position where the detection element 34 is provided. This determination is executed by the control unit 50, which will be described later. Alternatively, the determination may be made by the detection means 30 and the result thereof may be transmitted to the control section 50 .

Note that the specific configuration of the foot switch 10 described above can be appropriately changed as long as the user can operate it with his or her foot. In the example shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the foot switch 10 is operated by the user pushing the kick plate 12 backward. Instead of this configuration, the kick-in plate 12 may be a foot pedal configured to be stepped on obliquely downward or vertically downward.

Similarly, as long as the horizontal position of the foot operating the foot switch 10 can be detected, the specific configuration of the detection means 30 can be changed as appropriate. For example, instead of the detecting element having the light projecting portion p and the light receiving portion r, a plurality of small capacitive sensors for detecting a human body may be provided at the positions of the detecting elements 31 to 39 . Alternatively, the kicker plate 12 of FIGS. 2 and 3 is divided into a plurality of pieces, and a set of a plurality of elastic members and a plurality of switches is installed for each of the divided kicker plates, thereby forming a set of kicker plates. There is also a method of judging which position of the body was kicked by the state of a plurality of switches.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the water channel and the electrical control portion of the faucet device according to the embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 5 , the water faucet device 1 according to the embodiment further includes a channel 41 , an on-off valve 42 and a controller 50 . The flow path 41 connects the water supply source 43 and the water discharger 20 . The water supply source 43 is, for example, tap water or a water tank. The on-off valve 42 is provided in the flow path 41 . Water is supplied to the water discharger 20 when the on-off valve 42 is opened, and the supply of water to the water discharger 20 is stopped when the on-off valve 42 is closed.

In the example shown in FIG. 5 , the faucet device 1 further includes a channel 44 , an on-off valve 45 and a mixing section 47 . Flow path 44 connects hot water supply source 46 and water discharger 20 . The hot water source 46 is, for example, a hot water heater or a hot water storage tank. The flow path 41 and the flow path 44 merge at the mixing section 47 and flow to the water discharge section 20 . The on-off valve 45 is provided between the hot water supply source 46 and the mixing section 47 . Hot water is supplied to the water discharger 20 when the on-off valve 45 is opened, and the supply of hot water to the water discharger 20 is stopped when the on-off valve 45 is closed.

The controller 50 is electrically connected to the footswitch 10 , the detection means 30 , the on-off valve 42 and the on-off valve 45 . The on-off valves 42 and 45 are, for example, electromagnetic valves. The control unit 50 operates the on-off valve 42 and the on-off valve 45 based on the signals transmitted from the foot switch 10 and the detection means 30 to control water supply to the water discharger 20 .

The water channel configuration shown in FIG. 5 is an example, and the water channel configuration of the faucet device 1 according to the present embodiment is not limited to this. The water channel configuration of the water faucet device 1 can be changed as appropriate, as long as the state of water supply can be controlled by driving the on-off valve by the control unit 50 .

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing part of the configuration of the faucet device according to the embodiment. In particular, it is a diagram showing the details of the electrical control portion of the configuration of the water faucet device of FIG. 5, excluding the water channel.
More specifically, the control section 50 is electrically connected to the switch SW1 of the foot switch 10 and the detection elements 31 to 39 of the detection means 30, as shown in FIG. When the control unit 50 detects the input of the switch SW1, the light is emitted from the light projecting units p of the detection elements 31 to 39, respectively. Each light receiving portion r detects the reflected light. For example, the control unit 50 detects the horizontal position of the foot that operates the foot switch 10 based on the amount of light received detected by each light receiving unit r and the arrangement thereof. The control unit 50 controls water supply according to the position where the foot is detected.

As a specific example, the control unit 50 operates the on-off valves 42 and 45 to control the state of water supply to one of states 1 to 3 below. In state 1, the on-off valves 42 and 45 are closed, and water supply to the water discharger 20 is stopped. In state 2, the on-off valve 42 is opened, the on-off valve 45 is closed, and only water is supplied to the water discharger 20 . In state 3, the on-off valve 42 is closed, the on-off valve 45 is opened, and hot water is supplied to the water discharger 20 . For example, switching of these water supply states is executed according to the detected position of the foot.

The on-off valves 42 and 45 may have a flow control function. When the on-off valves 42 and 45 have a flow rate adjustment function, the controller 50 may control the water supply state more finely as follows. For example, when the water supply is in state 3, the controller 50 increases the water flow rate and decreases the hot water flow rate. As a result, the temperature of the water drops while maintaining the amount of water spouted from the water spouting portion 20 . Alternatively, the control unit 50 decreases the flow rate of water and increases the flow rate of hot water, thereby increasing the temperature of the water while maintaining the amount of water to be spouted. The control unit 50 may increase the amount of water while maintaining the temperature of the water by increasing the flow rate of water and hot water. Alternatively, the control unit 50 may reduce the amount of water while maintaining the temperature of the water by reducing the flow rate of water and hot water.

According to the faucet device 1 according to the embodiment, it is possible to control water supply as follows.
When the water supply is in the first state, the foot switch 10 is operated and the detection means 30 detects that the foot is inserted in the first position in the horizontal direction. At this time, the controller 50 changes the water supply from the first state to the second state. The second state is a state different from the first state.
Further, when the water supply is in the first state, the foot switch 10 is operated and the detection means 30 detects that the foot is inserted in the second position in the horizontal direction. The second position is a position different from the first position. At this time, the controller 50 changes the water supply from the first state to the third state. The third state is a state different from the first state and the second state.
For example, the first state, the second state, and the third state are each one of the states described above. The first position is the position where any one of the detection elements 31-39 is provided, and the second position is the position where the other one of the detection elements 31-39 is provided.

According to the water faucet device 1 according to the embodiment, as described above, water supply is controlled according to the position of the foot detected by the detecting means 30 when the foot switch 10 is operated. Therefore, the user does not have to operate the foot switch 10 complicatedly with the tip of the foot in order to control the water supply. The user can easily control the water supply by simply changing the operating position of the foot switch 10 while concentrating on the main work.

Similarly, according to the water supply control device including the foot switch 10, the detection means 30, and the control unit 50, which controls the water supply in the faucet device 1, the user can easily supply water while concentrating on the main work. be able to control. By using this water supply control device in the faucet device 1 and the plumbing equipment 100, the usability of the faucet device 1 and the plumbing equipment 100 can be improved.

7 to 9 are schematic diagrams for explaining the operation of the control unit of the water faucet device according to the embodiment.
FIG. 7A schematically shows detection ranges of the detection elements 31 to 39 on the lower surface 11b inside the fixing member 11. FIG. For example, the control unit 50 sets a plurality of operation areas in areas where the detection elements 31 to 39 are provided. In the example shown in FIG. 7B , the control section 50 sets the operation area L and the operation area R along the foot switch 10 .

When any of the detection elements 31 to 34 detects the foot, the control section 50 determines that the foot switch 10 has been operated in the operation area L. Further, when any of the detection elements 35 to 39 detects the foot, the control section 50 determines that the foot switch 10 has been operated in the operation region R. For example, when the foot switch 10 is operated in the operation area L, the controller 50 switches between hot water spouting and hot water stopping. When the foot switch 10 is operated in the operation area R, the control unit 50 switches between water spouting and water stopping.

An example of a specific operation will be described.
When it is detected that the foot is inserted into the operation region R while the water discharger 20 is stopped, the controller 50 causes the water discharger 20 to discharge water. When it is detected that the foot is inserted into the operation region R while the water discharger 20 is discharging water, the control unit 50 stops the water discharger 20 . When it is detected that the foot is inserted into the operation area L while the water discharger 20 is stopped, the controller 50 causes the water discharger 20 to discharge hot water. When it is detected that the foot is inserted into the operation area L while the water discharger 20 is discharging hot water, the control unit 50 stops the water discharger 20 .
When it is detected that the foot is inserted into the operation area L while the water discharger 20 is discharging water, the control unit 50 temporarily stops the water discharger 20 and then causes the water discharger 20 to discharge hot water. When it is detected that the foot is inserted into the operation region R while the water discharger 20 is discharging hot water, the control unit 50 temporarily stops the water discharger 20 and then causes the water discharger 20 to discharge water.

Furthermore, the control unit 50 may be configured to be able to change the position of the boundary between adjacent operation areas. For example, in the initial state, it is assumed that the operation area L and the operation area R are set to a predetermined size as shown in FIG. 8(a). When the water discharger 20 is in the stopped water state, the operation areas L and R are reset and set to the initial state. Assume that the foot is inserted at the position indicated by the arrow and the foot switch 10 is operated. The inserted foot is detected by the detection element 34 . In this case, the control unit 50 changes the position of the boundary between the operation areas L and R to a position away from the position where the foot is detected, as shown in FIG. 8(b). For example, the control unit 50 sets the boundary at a position separated by a distance d or more between adjacent detection elements.

Another example is described below.
Assume that the foot is inserted into the position indicated by the arrow in FIG. 8(c) and the foot switch 10 is operated. The inserted foot is detected by the detection element 35 . In this case, the control unit 50 changes the position of the boundary between the operation areas L and R between the detection elements 33 and 34, as shown in FIG. 8(d).
When the foot is inserted into the position indicated by the arrow in FIG. 9(a) and the foot is detected by the detection element 31, the controller 50 detects the position of the boundary as shown in FIG. 9(b). Change to a position between elements 33 and 34 . That is, in the examples shown in FIGS. 8(a) to 8(d), the position of the boundary has been changed so as to move away from the position where the foot is inserted. On the other hand, in the examples shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the position of the boundary is changed so as to approach the position where the foot is inserted.
When the foot is inserted into the position indicated by the arrow in FIG. 9(c) and detected by the detecting element 39, the controller 50 detects the position of the boundary as shown in FIG. 9(d). Change to a position between elements 36 and 37 .

FIG. 10 is a table showing an example of setting of operation areas by the control unit.
In FIG. 10 , the left column represents the operating positions of the foot switch 10 . In FIG. 10, as the operation position, the reference numerals of the detection elements that detect the inserted foot when the foot switch 10 is operated are shown. The central and right columns in FIG. 10 represent ranges set as the operation regions L and R. In FIG. For example, when the foot inserted is detected by the detection element 31, the detection range by the detection elements 31 to 33 is set as the operation area L, and the detection range by the detection elements 34 to 39 is set as the operation area R.

The standing position, posture, etc. of the user change according to the work. Accordingly, when the user uses the faucet device 1, the position at which the foot switch 10 is operated also changes. By changing the range of the operation area according to the position where the user operates the foot switch 10, the user can easily operate water supply regardless of the user's standing position.

Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 8A to 8D, when the foot switch 10 is operated to start water spouting, the control unit 50 sets the operation area to a position a predetermined distance or more away from the position of the foot. set boundaries between
For example, assume that the user operates the vicinity of the center of the foot switch 10 and the detection element 34 detects the foot. In response to this operation, the controller 50 causes the water discharger 20 to discharge hot water. Next, when the user wants to stop the water, he/she can operate the foot switch 10 at the same position. However, even if the user intends to operate the foot switch 10 at the same position, the user may actually operate the foot switch 10 at a different position depending on the user's standing position or posture. For example, the user may operate the footswitch 10 to stop the water, but may operate the footswitch 10 at the position of the detection element 35 adjacent to the detection element 34 . At this time, if the boundary of the operation area is set regardless of the position of the foot at the start of water spouting, water will be spouted and an action not intended by the user will be executed.
By setting the boundary at a position that is at least a predetermined distance away from the position of the foot, it is possible to suppress such an unintended operation, and the usability of the water faucet device 1 can be improved.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 9A to 9D, when the foot switch 10 is operated to start water spouting, the control unit 50 places a boundary between the operation areas at a position at least a predetermined distance away from the foot position. If there is, change its bounds to a closer location.
For example, when the operation area is set as shown in FIG. 7B, it is assumed that the user operates the end of the foot switch 10 and the detection element 39 detects the foot. Upon receiving this operation, the control unit 50 causes the water discharger 20 to discharge water. Next time the user wants to spout hot water, if the position of the boundary is not changed by the control unit 50, the user needs to reach at least the detection element 34 away from the detection element 39 and operate the foot switch 10. There is Such an operation may be difficult depending on the work being performed by the user. In addition, there is a possibility that the user may perform an unintended operation without fully extending the leg.
By setting the boundary at a position somewhat close to the position of the foot, the user does not have to forcefully operate the foot switch 10, and unintended actions can be suppressed.
In summary, the user performs different operations by kicking the footswitch 10 with the sense of "left and right", but the left and right are distinguished not by the absolute position but by the relative position (first based on the operation position). can. As a result, the degree of freedom of the user's standing position is increased, and it becomes easier to kick left and right, thereby improving usability.

The control unit 50 may change the position of the boundary of the operation area according to the passage of time after the start of water spouting. For example, when a first time elapses after the foot switch 10 is operated to start water spouting, the control unit 50 changes the position of the boundary so as to widen the range of the operation area where the foot is inserted. In other words, the control unit 50 widens the range of the operation area for stopping the water. The first time is set to 30 seconds, for example.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the control unit of the water faucet device according to the embodiment;
For example, as shown in FIG. 11A, first, a foot is detected in the operation area L in the water stop state, and hot water is discharged from the water discharger 20 . At the same time, the boundary between the operation areas L and R is changed as shown in FIG. 11(b). After the first time has elapsed, the control unit 50 changes the position of the boundary between the operation areas L and R so as to widen the range of the operation area L for stopping the hot water, as shown in FIG. 11(c). do.

When the second time has passed since water spouting started, the control unit 50 may further expand the range of the operation area for stopping the water, as shown in FIG. 11(d). In the example of FIG. 11(d), the range of the operation area L is expanded to the whole, and the operation area R is eliminated. The second time is longer than the first time. The second time is set to 3 minutes, for example. After that, when the foot switch 10 is operated in the operation area L set to the full range, hot water is stopped. At this time, the control unit 50 resets the position of the boundary between the operation areas L and R to the initial state, as shown in FIG. 11(e).

In general, users often stop using water or hot water continuously for a certain period of time. At that time, the user tries to stop the water by kicking in the same position that was operated when water spouting was started. However, as time elapses after the start of water spouting, the user's standing position changes, or the user's memory of the kicking position becomes vague, causing a positional deviation. There is a high possibility that this deviation will increase with the lapse of time. Therefore, the control unit 50 widens the range of the operation area for stopping the water when the first time has elapsed after the start of water spouting. As a result, when the user stops the water, the range in which the water is stopped is widened, making it easier for the user to stop the water. Moreover, when the second time has elapsed after the start of water discharge, the control unit 50 further widens the range of the operation area for stopping the water, thereby making it easier for the user to stop the water.

Note that when the user stops the water, it is desirable that the setting of the operation area is reset as shown in FIG. 11(e). If the setting of the operation area continues to be maintained even after the water stops, the user may be confused when he/she operates the foot switch 10 next time because he or she does not know which part is which operation area.

Alternatively, it is desirable that the controller 50 has an automatic water stop function that stops hot or cold water when the foot switch 10 is not operated for a third period of time after the start of water spouting. As a result, it is possible to prevent hot water from being "leaked out". In this automatic water stop, the position of the boundary between the operation areas L and R is reset to the initial state for the same reason as when the foot switch 10 is operated to stop the water. This results in a change from FIG. 11(d) to FIG. 11(e). In this case, the third time is set to 10 minutes, for example.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing the operation of the faucet device according to the embodiment.
Here, a case where two operation regions L and R are set by the control unit 50 as shown in FIG. 7 will be described.

First, in judgment D1, it is judged whether or not there is an input of switch SW1. When the switch SW1 is input, the defined process PP1 is executed. In the defined process PP1, the detection means 30 detects the position of the foot that operated the foot switch 10. FIG. Next, at decision D2, it is decided whether both cold and hot water are turned off.

If the water has stopped, it is determined in which of the plurality of operation areas, ie, L or R, the foot has been detected in a defined process PP2. It should be noted that the range of each operation area is set to the initial state when the determination is made by the defined process PP2. Subsequently, the defined process PP3 is executed. In the defined process PP3, the position of the boundary between the operation areas is changed according to the rule shown in FIG. 10 according to the position where the foot is detected.

If it is determined in decision D2 that the water has not been stopped, the defined process PP4 is executed. In the defined process PP4, it is determined in which operation area, L or R, the foot has been detected. Note that the determination is made based on the position of the boundary after being changed by the predefined process PP3 or the like.

After defined process PP3 or defined process PP4, decision D3 is performed. In determination D3, it is determined in which of the operation areas L and R the foot has been detected.

If the operation is in the operation region R, the process P1 is executed. In process P1, the request to spout hot water is reset. For example, when hot water is being discharged from the water discharge unit 20, a hot water discharge request is set. This water discharge request is reset by processing P1. That is, when hot water is being discharged, preprocessing (reset of request for hot water discharge) to unconditionally stop hot water is performed. Next, in judgment D4, it is judged whether or not there is a water spouting request. If there is a request, this means that water is being spouted at this time, and the water spouting request is reset in process P2. Furthermore, in the defined process PP5, the range of the operation area is initialized. If there is no request at decision D4, this means that water is not being spouted at this time, and a water spouting request is set at process P3. In this way, if the water is being discharged, the water is stopped, and if the water is stopped, the water is discharged. When the water is stopped, the range of the operation area is initialized. .

When it is determined that the operation is performed in the operation area L in the determination D3, the process P4 is executed. After that, the processing is reversed from that in the case where the above-described operation region R is operated. In process P4, the water spouting request is reset. For example, when water is being spouted from the water spouting unit 20, a water spouting request is set. This water discharge request is reset by processing P4. Next, in judgment D5, it is judged whether or not there is a hot water spouting request. If there is a request, the hot water spouting request is reset in process P5. Further, in the defined process PP6, the range of the manipulation area is initialized. If there is no request, a hot water spout request is set in process P6.

At determination D6, it is determined whether the open/closed state of the cold water side on-off valve 42 and the open/closed state of the hot water side on-off valve 45 match the water spouting request and the hot water spouting request, respectively. If they match, decision D1 is executed again. If they do not match, the cold water side on-off valve 42 and the hot water side on-off valve 45 are driven so as to match in the defined process PP7.

If it is determined at determination D1 that there is no input from switch SW1, determination D7 is executed. At determination D7, it is determined whether or not the water discharger 20 is discharging water. If the water discharger 20 is stopped, the determination D1 is executed again. That is, it becomes a loop waiting for whether the switch SW1 is turned on. When the water discharger 20 is discharging water, it is determined in determination D8 whether or not the first time T1 has elapsed since the water discharge was started. The first time T1 is set to 30 seconds, for example.

If the first time T1 has not elapsed, decision D1 is performed again. If the first time T1 has elapsed, a defined process PP8 is executed. In the defined process PP8, the control unit 50 changes the position of the boundary between the operation areas so as to widen the range of the operation area where the foot is inserted (the operation area for stopping the water). This case is a change from FIG. 11(b) to FIG. 11(c). That is, when the operation area L is operated to start hot water spouting, when the first time T1 elapses, the operation area L, which is the operation area for stopping hot water, is expanded by one frame (distance d), and the area of FIG. 11 ( The state of c) is established to make it easier to stop the hot water supply. Note that this frame widening process is performed only once when the first time T1 has elapsed. The number of frames is not increased by one each time the defined process PP8 is executed.

After the defined process PP8, it is determined in determination D9 whether or not the second time T2 has elapsed since water spouting was started. The second time T2 is set to 3 minutes, for example. If the second time T2 has not elapsed, decision D1 is performed again. If the second time T2 has elapsed, a defined process PP9 is executed. In the defined process PP9, the control unit 50 expands the range of the operation area in which the foot is inserted to eliminate other operation areas. This example is a change from FIG. 11(c) to FIG. 11(d), whereby the hot water supply can be stopped no matter where the foot switch is kicked.

After the defined process PP9, it is determined in determination D10 whether or not a third time T3 has elapsed since water spouting was started. The third time T3 is set to 10 minutes, for example. If the third time T3 has not elapsed, decision D1 is performed again. If the third time T3 has passed, process P7 is executed. In process P7, the request for water and hot water to be discharged is reset. That is, when the third time T3 has elapsed since the water was discharged, it is determined that the hot water has been "forgotten to stop", and control is performed to forcibly stop the water. As a result, even if water discharge is started by mistake due to an operation error or an animal (such as a cat), it is possible to prevent "continuous running of hot water". Furthermore, in the defined process PP10, the range of the operation area is initialized. This is a change from FIG. 11(d) to FIG. 11(e). After that, the decision D6 and the defined process PP7 described above are executed. That is, when the third time T3 elapses from the start of water discharge, the cold water or hot water is automatically stopped.

In the above, a case where two operation areas are set by the control unit 50 has been described. The control unit 50 may set three or more operation areas without being limited to this example.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the control unit of the water faucet device according to the embodiment;
In a state where water discharger 20 is stopped, all areas are set as operation area C, as shown in FIG. 13(a). The operation area C is an operation area for switching between water spouting and water stopping. In other words, water spouting from the water spouting portion 20 is started regardless of which position the foot switch 10 is operated.

Assume that when the foot switch 10 is operated, the foot is detected at the position indicated by the arrow in FIG. Using this position as a reference, the control unit 50 sets three operation areas L, C, and R as shown in FIG. 13(b).

For example, the operation area L is set as an operation area for decreasing the flow rate, and the operation area R is set as an operation area for increasing the flow rate. Alternatively, the operation area L may be set as an operation area for decreasing the temperature, and the operation area R may be set as an operation area for increasing the temperature.

The boundary between the operation areas L and C is set at a position that is at least a predetermined distance (for example, distance d) from the position where the foot is inserted at the start of water spouting. Similarly, the boundary between the operation regions C and R is set at a position separated by a predetermined distance or more from the position where the foot is inserted.

Alternatively, in the initial state, operation regions L, C, and R for selecting water flow may be set. For example, the operation area L is set as an area for switching between spouting and stopping hot water. The operation area C is set as an area for switching between discharging and stopping the raw water. The operation region R is set as a region for switching between spraying and stopping clean water. The user operates the foot switch 10 in an operation area corresponding to the water flow to be spouted when spouting water from the spouting portion 20 . As a result, a desired water flow is discharged from the water discharger 20 . Further, in this case, the position of the boundary between the operation areas L and C and the position of the boundary between the operation areas C and R are changed according to the position where the foot is inserted at the start of water discharge.

After the operation area is set as shown in FIG. 13(b), when the first time elapses without the foot switch 10 being operated, the controller 50 stops the water as shown in FIG. 13(c). Expand the range of the operation area C for Further, when the second time elapses without the foot switch 10 being operated, the control section 50 further expands the range of the operation area C for stopping the water, as shown in FIG. 13(d). In the example of FIG. 13(d), the operation area C is set to the entire area, and the operation areas L and R are eliminated. The second time is set longer than the first time. Further, when the water is stopped, the setting of the operation area is reset and returns to the state shown in FIG. 13(a).

FIG. 14 is a table showing an example of setting of operation areas by the control unit.
In FIG. 14, the left column represents the foot operation position when the foot switch 10 starts water spouting. In FIG. 14, as the operation position, the reference numerals of the detection elements that detect the inserted foot when the foot switch 10 is operated are shown. Other columns represent ranges set as operation areas L, C, and R. FIG. For example, when the foot inserted is detected by the detection element 35, the operation area C is set to the range of the detection elements 34 to 36 with the detection element 35 as the center. Outside the operation area C, an operation area L is set in the range of the detection elements 31-33, and an operation area R is set in the range of the detection elements 37-39. As another example, when the foot inserted by the detection element 31 is detected, the operation region L is not set, the detection range by the detection elements 31 to 33 is set as the operation region C, and the detection by the detection elements 34 to 39 is set. A range is set as the operation region R.

By setting three or more operation areas by the control unit 50 , the user can use the foot switch 10 to perform more operations. Therefore, the usability of the faucet device 1 is improved. In addition, by setting the central operation area at the position where the foot is inserted at the start of water discharge, it becomes easier to operate the end operation areas with the tip of the foot, improving usability.

The faucet device 1 may further comprise another means for controlling water supply.
FIGS. 15(a) and 15(b) are a plan view and a perspective view, respectively, illustrating the operating portion of the water faucet device according to the embodiment.
The faucet device 1 may further include an operation unit 60 shown in FIGS. 15(a) and 15(b). The operation unit 60 has switches SW2 to SW6. The switch SW2 is a switch for switching between water discharge and water stop of the water discharger 20 . The switch SW3 is a switch for increasing the amount of spouted water. The switch SW4 is a switch for decreasing the amount of spouted water. The switch SW5 is a switch for increasing the temperature of water to be spouted. The switch SW6 is a switch for lowering the temperature of water to be spouted. The operation unit 60 is attached to any location of the plumbing equipment 100 . The user can control water supply by operating the operation unit 60 with a finger or the like.

FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing part of the configuration of the faucet device according to the embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 16, the switches SW2 to SW6 of the operation section 60 are electrically connected to the control section 50. As shown in FIG. The control unit 50 operates the on-off valves 42 and 45 based on signals input from the foot switch 10, the detection means 30, and the operation unit 60 to control water supply. However, it is assumed here that the on-off valves 42 and 45 have a function of adjusting the flow rate. For example, the on-off valves 42 and 45 are known motor valves, and are configured so that the opening degree of the valve can be adjusted by the rotation angle of a motor incorporated in the valve. The opening degrees of the on-off valves 42 and 45 are adjusted.

FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the control unit of the water faucet device according to the embodiment;
In a state where water discharger 20 is stopped, all areas are set as operation area C, as shown in FIG. 17(a). When the switch SW2 of the operation unit 60 is operated, the control unit 50 changes the setting of the operation area to the state shown in FIG. 17(b). That is, the operation area C is set in the center, and the operation areas L and R are set symmetrically to the left and right. After that, when the first time elapses, as shown in FIG. 17(c), the range of the operation area C spreads evenly to the left and right. When the second time elapses, the operation area C expands as a whole, as shown in FIG. 17(d).

By providing the operation unit 60, the user can use the operation unit 60 to perform more operations. Therefore, the usability of the faucet device 1 is improved.

18 and 19 are flowcharts showing the operation of the faucet device according to the embodiment.
18 and 19 show the operation when the water faucet device according to the embodiment includes the operation unit 60. FIG. First, in judgment D21, it is judged whether there is an input of switch SW2. If there is no input from the switch SW2, it is determined at decision D22 whether there is an input from the switch SW3.

When there is an input from switch SW3, the set value of the flow rate is increased in process P21. If there is no input from the switch SW3, it is determined at decision D23 whether there is an input from the switch SW4.

When the switch SW4 is turned on, the set value of the flow rate is decreased in process P22. If there is no input from the switch SW4, it is determined at decision D24 whether there is an input from the switch SW5.

When the switch SW5 is turned on, the set value of the water temperature is increased in process P23. If there is no input from the switch SW5, it is determined at decision D25 whether there is an input from the switch SW6.

When the switch SW6 is turned on, the set value of the water temperature is lowered in process P24. After any of the processes P21-P24, the defined process PP21 is executed. In the defined process PP21, the target opening degrees of the on-off valves 42 and 45 are calculated in order to adjust the respective flow rates of the hot and cold water supplied to the water discharger 20 based on the set flow rate and water temperature. Specifically, since the on-off valves 42 and 45 are motor valves, the amount of driving the motors incorporated in the valves is calculated.

If there is no switch SW6 input at decision D25, it is determined at decision D26 whether there is switch SW1 input. When there is an input from switch SW1, which is the case when foot switch 10 is operated, predefined process PP22 is executed. In the defined process PP22, the detection means 30 detects the position of the foot that operated the foot switch 10. FIG. Next, at determination D27, it is determined whether or not the water discharger 20 is discharging water.

If the water is stopped, all of the operation areas are assigned to area C at this time, as shown in FIG. 13(a). Next, in defined process PP23, the range of the operation area is set according to the position where the foot is detected. Determination of this operation area is executed according to the rules of the table shown in FIG. For example, when the position of the detection element 34 is manipulated, the state changes to that shown in FIG. 13(b). After the defined process PP23, a water spouting request is set in process P25.

If it is determined in determination D27 that the water is not stopped (spouting water), the defined process PP24 is executed. In defined process PP24, it is determined in which manipulation area the foot was detected. However, the operation area is set by the defined process PP23 or defined processes PP26 and PP27 which will be described later.

At decision D28, it is decided which one of L, C, and R is the operation region decided by the defined process PP24. When the operation area L is set to decrease the flow rate and the operation area R is set to increase the flow rate, when the operation area R is determined, the process P21 is executed. When it is determined that the operation area is L, the process P22 is executed. If it is determined to be the operation area C, the water spouting request is reset in process P26.
Alternatively, the operation area L may be set to lower the water temperature and the operation area R may be set to raise the water temperature. In this case, if the operation area R is determined, the process P23 is performed, and if the operation area L is determined, the process P24 is performed. However, it is the same that if the operation area C is determined, the water spouting request is reset in the process P26.
After the process P26, the operation area is initialized in the defined process PP25. As a result, the state shown in FIG. 13(d) is obtained.

If it is determined in decision D26 that there is no input from switch SW1, decision D29 is executed. In determination D29, it is determined whether or not the water discharger 20 is discharging water. When the water discharger 20 is stopped, the process returns (loops) to the determination D21. When the water discharger 20 is discharging water, it is determined in determination D30 whether or not the first time T1 has elapsed since the water discharge was started. The first time T1 is set to 30 seconds, for example.

If the first time T1 has not elapsed, the execution of decision D21 is returned to. If the first time T1 has elapsed, a defined process PP26 is executed. In the defined process PP26, the control unit 50 changes the position of the boundary between the operation areas so as to widen the range of the operation area C for stopping the water. As an example, the process of changing from the state of (b) in FIG. 13 to the state of (c) is performed. In other words, the state shown in FIG. 13B is maintained until 30 seconds have elapsed since the start of water discharge, and the state shown in FIG. Since the operation area C is an area where the water is stopped, when a predetermined time elapses from the start of water discharge, the operation of the operation areas L and R is still possible, and the water can be stopped more easily. As the time elapses from the start of water discharge, the possibility of performing an operation to stop the water increases. Therefore, by changing the operation area so as to make it easier to stop the water as time elapses, usability is improved.

After the defined process PP26, it is determined in determination D31 whether or not the second time T2 has elapsed since water spouting was started. The second time T2 is set to 3 minutes, for example. If the second time T2 has not elapsed, the execution of decision D21 is returned to. If the second time T2 has elapsed, a defined process PP27 is executed. In the defined process PP27, the control unit 50 initializes the setting of the operation area and sets the operation area C as a whole. In other words, when the second time T2 has elapsed from the start of water discharge, the water can be stopped no matter where the foot switch 10 is kicked by setting the entire region to be the water stop operation region. This is also a measure to deal with the fact that the more time elapses from the start of water discharge, the more likely it is that water will be stopped.

After the defined process PP27, it is determined in determination D32 whether or not a third time T3 has elapsed since water spouting was started. The third time T3 is set to 10 minutes, for example. If the third time T3 has not elapsed, the execution of decision D21 is returned to. If the third time T3 has passed, process P26 is executed. In the process P26, the water is stopped, and hot water is prevented from continuously running.

If it is determined in determination D21 that there is an input from switch SW2, process P27 is executed. In process P27, the set water discharge request is reversed. That is, when the water discharge request is set, the water discharge request is reset. If the water spout request has been reset, set the water spout request. In judgment D33, it is judged whether there is a water discharge request (whether it is set). When there is no request for water discharge, a plurality of operation areas are set in the defined process PP29 as shown in FIG. 17(b).

After any of defined process PP21, defined process PP25, process P25, and defined process PP29, or if decision D33 determines that there is no water spouting request, decision D34 is executed. At determination D34, it is determined whether or not there is a water discharge request. When there is a water discharge request, the opening degree of the on-off valves 42 and 45 set in the defined process PP30 is set as the target opening degree. If there is no water discharge request, the degree of opening of the on-off valves 42 and 45 of 0 is set as the target degree of opening in the defined process PP31. That is, the target is a state in which the on-off valves 42 and 45 are closed.

After the defined process PP30 or PP31, it is judged in judgment D35 whether the degree of opening of the on-off valves 42 and 45 matches the target degree of opening. If they do not match, the on-off valves 42 and 45 are driven to match in the defined process PP32. If they match, decision D21 is executed again. Specifically, the "opening degree" of the above operation is calculated, compared, and driven by the control unit 50 as the drive amount of the motors incorporated in the on-off valves 42 and 45. FIG.

The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the invention is not limited to these descriptions. Appropriate design changes made by those skilled in the art with respect to the above embodiments are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they have the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, size, material, arrangement, installation form, and the like of each element included in the water supply control device, the faucet device 1, the plumbing equipment 100, etc. are not limited to those illustrated and can be changed as appropriate. .
Moreover, each element provided in each of the above-described embodiments can be combined as long as it is technically possible, and a combination of these is also included in the scope of the present invention as long as it includes the features of the present invention.

1 faucet device, 10 foot switch, 11 fixing member, 11a inner surface, 11b lower surface, 12 foot switch, 12 kick plate, 12a rear surface, 13 elastic member, 20 water discharge section, 30 detection means, 31 to 39 detection elements, 41 channel, 42 on-off valve, 43 water supply source, 44 channel, 45 on-off valve, 46 hot water supply source, 47 mixing section,
50 control unit 60 operation unit 90 sink 91 counter 92 cabinet 100 plumbing equipment C operation area D1 to D10 judgment D21 to D35 judgment L operation area P1 to P7, P21 to P27 processing PP1 ~ PP10, PP21 to PP32 defined processing R operation area SW1 to SW6 switch d distance p light emitter r light receiver th threshold

Claims (19)

A foot switch operated by inserting a foot,
a control unit that controls water supply based on a signal from the foot switch;
detection means for detecting the horizontal position of the foot inserted into the foot switch;
with
When the foot switch is operated, the control unit controls water supply according to the position of the foot detected by the detection means ,
When the foot switch is operated when the water supply is in the first state and the detection means detects that the foot is inserted into the first position in the horizontal direction, the control unit supplies the water supply to the first position. change from a state to a second state,
When the foot switch is operated when the water supply is in the first state and the detection means detects that the foot is inserted into the second position in the horizontal direction, the control unit supplies the water supply to the second position. A water supply controller that changes from state 1 to state 3 . A foot switch operated by inserting a foot,
a control unit that controls water supply based on a signal from the foot switch;
detection means for detecting the horizontal position of the foot inserted into the foot switch;
with
When the foot switch is operated, the control unit controls water supply according to the position of the foot detected by the detection means,
The water supply control device, wherein the control unit is configured to set a plurality of operation areas along the foot switch, and controls water supply according to the operation area into which the foot is inserted. 3. The water supply control device according to claim 2 , wherein the control unit controls the water supply so as to supply different water flows according to the operation area into which the foot is inserted. The water supply control device according to claim 2 or 3 , wherein the control unit controls water supply so as to supply any one of raw water, hot water, and purified water according to the operation area in which the foot is inserted. 5. The controller according to any one of claims 2 to 4 , wherein the control unit controls the water supply so as to switch between water discharge and water stop, adjust the flow rate, and adjust the water temperature according to the operation area where the foot is inserted. 1. A water supply control device according to one. The water supply control device according to any one of claims 2 to 5 , wherein the control section is configured to be able to change the position of the boundary between the adjacent operation areas. 7. The water supply control device according to claim 6 , wherein the controller changes the position of the boundary based on the position of the foot detected by the detecting means when the foot switch is operated to start water spouting. 8. The water supply control device according to claim 7 , wherein the control unit sets the boundary at a position separated by a predetermined distance or more from the position of the foot detected by the detecting means when the operation to start the water discharge is performed. 8. The water supply control device according to claim 7 , wherein the controller resets the position of the boundary when the water is stopped after water discharge is started. 8. The water supply control device according to claim 7 , wherein the control unit changes the position of the boundary when a state in which the foot switch is not operated while water is being discharged passes for a first time. The control unit sets a part of the plurality of operation regions as a region for stopping water,
11. The water supply control device according to claim 10 , wherein the control unit widens the range of the operation region for stopping the water when the foot switch is not operated while the water is being spouted for the first period of time. [Claim 12]
12. The control unit according to claim 10 or 11 , wherein, when a state in which said foot switch is not operated while water is being spouted for a second time period longer than said first time period, said control unit sets the entire operation area as an area for stopping water. water supply controller.

The control unit is configured to set two operation areas in a horizontal direction,
The control unit sets the range of each of the operation areas to a predetermined size when the water is stopped, and when an operation to start water spouting is performed by the foot switch, the foot detected by the detection means 7. The water supply control device according to claim 6 , wherein the boundary is set at a position separated by a predetermined distance or more from the position of . The control unit is configured to set three or more operation areas in a horizontal direction,
The control unit sets the position of the boundary so that the central operation area is positioned at the position of the foot detected by the detection means when the foot switch is operated to start water spouting. 7. The water supply control device according to 6 . 15. The water supply control device according to claim 14 , wherein the control unit sets the central operation area as an area for switching between water spouting and water stopping when an operation for starting water spouting is performed by the foot switch. . The control unit sets the left and right operation areas adjacent to the central operation area as areas for decreasing and increasing the flow rate, respectively, when the foot switch is operated to start water spouting. Item 15. The water supply control device according to Item 14 . 15. The control unit according to claim 14 , wherein when an operation to start water spouting is performed, the control unit sets the left and right operation areas adjacent to the central operation area as areas for decreasing and increasing temperatures, respectively. Water supply controller. a water discharge part for discharging water;
a foot switch that can operate water supply to the water discharge part and is operated by inserting a foot;
a flow path connecting a water supply source and the water discharge section;
an on-off valve provided in the channel for opening and closing the channel;
a control unit that operates the on-off valve based on a signal from the foot switch;
detection means for detecting the horizontal position of the foot inserted into the foot switch;
with
When the foot switch is operated, the control unit operates the open/close valve according to the position of the foot detected by the detection means to control water supply ,
When the foot switch is operated when the water supply is in the first state and the detection means detects that the foot is inserted into the first position in the horizontal direction, the control unit supplies the water supply to the first position. change from a state to a second state,
When the foot switch is operated when the water supply is in the first state and the detection means detects that the foot is inserted into the second position in the horizontal direction, the control unit supplies the water supply to the second position. A faucet device that changes from state 1 to state 3 . a water discharge part for discharging water;
a foot switch that can operate water supply to the water discharge part and is operated by inserting a foot;
a flow path connecting a water supply source and the water discharge section;
an on-off valve provided in the channel for opening and closing the channel;
a control unit that operates the on-off valve based on a signal from the foot switch;
detection means for detecting the horizontal position of the foot inserted into the foot switch;
with
When the foot switch is operated, the control unit operates the open/close valve according to the position of the foot detected by the detection means to control water supply,
The control unit is configured to set a plurality of operation areas along the foot switch, and controls water supply according to the operation area into which the foot is inserted.

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