AU2018416242B2

AU2018416242B2 - Water-purifying water discharge head, water purification cartridge, and faucet device

Info

Publication number: AU2018416242B2
Application number: AU2018416242A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Fumitaka Shiratake; Toshio Takagi
Original assignee: Takagi Co Ltd
Current assignee: Takagi Co Ltd
Priority date: 2018-03-29
Filing date: 2018-03-29
Publication date: 2021-10-21
Anticipated expiration: 2038-03-29
Also published as: JPWO2019186866A1; WO2019186866A1; CN112203985A; AU2018416242A1; CN112203985B; CN115006894A; JP6535826B1

Abstract

[Problem] To provide an improved water purification cartridge. [Solution] According to the present invention, a water purification cartridge PC1 is to be arranged at a water purification cartridge installation part 134 of a water-purifying water discharge head 108. The water purification cartridge PC1 has a connection end part 152 that is to be connected to a connection-receiving part 138 of the water purification cartridge installation part 134. The connection end part 152 has a purified water outlet hole 240, a first annular packing s1 that is positioned downstream of the purified water outlet hole 240, and a second annular packing s2 that is positioned upstream of the purified water outlet hole 240. The outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing s1 is smaller than the outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing s2.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a water discharge head having a water purification function, a water purification cartridge, and a faucet device.

BACKGROUND

[0002] There exists a cartridge for use in a water purifier, to be replaceably accommodated in an accommodating portion of a water purifier. The cartridge for use in a water purifier has a buffer portion that is disposed downstream of a purification material and cuts off a water hammer propagating from a flow path switching valve to the purification material.

[0003] The technique used in the cartridge described above is effective in preventing the purification material from being damaged. Such a technique is also effective in preventing adhesion between the water purifier and the water purification cartridge at a portion where the water purification cartridge is attached to the water purifier.

[0004] In light of new findings, the inventors of the present invention realized that the above described cartridge still has room for improvement. The present disclosure may provide an improved water discharge head, improved water purification cartridge, and improved faucet.

[0005] It is desired to address or ameliorate one or more disadvantages or limitations associated with the prior art, or to at least provide a useful alternative.

SUMMARY

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure is a water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge including: a connection terminal portion to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion. The connection terminal portion includes a purified water outlet hole, a first annular packing located on a downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, and a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole. An outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing.

[0007] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water discharge head including: a discharge port; a raw water flow path; a purified water flow path; a switching mechanism that switches between the raw water flow path and the purified water flow path; a water purification cartridge that produces purified water in the purified water flow path; and a water purification cartridge catching portion in which the water purification cartridge is disposed. The water purification cartridge catching portion includes a connection receiving portion that is connected to the water purification cartridge. The water purification cartridge includes a connection terminal portion that is connected to the connection receiving portion. The connection terminal portion includes a purified water outlet hole, a first annular packing located on a downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, and a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole. An outer diameter of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter of the second annular packing.

[0008] Still another aspect of the present disclosure is a faucet device including the water discharge head having a water purification function.

ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF EMBODIMENTS

[0009] With the above-described novel configuration, an improved water discharge head, improved water purification cartridge, and improved faucet may be obtained.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0010] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are hereinafter described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a faucet device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a front view of a water discharge head in the faucet device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3(a) and FIG. 3(b) are cross sectional views taken along line A-A in FIG. 2. FIG. 3(a) and FIG. 3(b) differ from each other in angular position of a water purification cartridge about its center line. FIG. 4(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line a-a in FIG. 4(b), and FIG. 4(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line b-b in FIG. 4(a). FIG. 5(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line a-a in FIG. 5(b), and FIG. 5(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line b-b in FIG. 5(a).

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a water purification cartridge attached to the faucet device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 7(a) is a side view of the water purification cartridge shown in FIG. 6, FIG. 7(b) is a front view of the water purification cartridge as viewed from the front side (downstream side), FIG. 7(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line c-c in FIG. 7(b), and FIG. 7(d) is a cross-sectional view taken along line d-d in FIG. 7(b). FIG. 8 is a fragmentary enlarged view of FIG. 7(c).

FIG. 9 is a fragmentary enlarged view of FIG. 7(d).

FIG. 10 is a fragmentary enlarged view of FIG. 3(b).

FIG. 11 is a fragmentary enlarged view of FIG. 5(b).

FIG. 12 is a fragmentary enlarged view of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a fragmentary enlarged view of FIG. 2 in JP6186059B1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings as necessary.

[0012] Unless otherwise described, the term "radial direction" as used in the present disclosure means the radial direction of a water purification cartridge attached to an appropriate position. Unless otherwise described, the term "axial direction" as used in the present disclosure means the axial direction of a water purification cartridge attached to an appropriate position.

[0013] Unless otherwise described, the term "upstream side" as used in the present disclosure means the upstream side in a flow of water, and the term "downstream side" as used in the present disclosure means the downstream side in a flow of water. In a water purification cartridge, the upstream side and the downstream side are determined relative to the axial direction. That is, in a water purification cartridge, the front end side in the axial direction is the downstream side, and the rear end side in the axial direction is the upstream side. Unless otherwise described, the downstream side is also referred to as the front side, and the upstream side is also referred to as the rear side.

[0014] [Findings on which the present disclosure is based] FIG. 13 is a fragmentary enlarged view of FIG. 2 in JP6186059B1. In this embodiment, two 0 rings 13 are disposed on the outer circumferential surface of a cylindrical connection portion 10a of a water purification cartridge. The outer diameter of the downstream 0-ring 13a is equal to the outer diameter of the upstream 0-ring 13b. An outlet port

10e is at a position to be aligned with a purified water receiving port 11a of a cartridge support 11. The outlet port 10e extends in the radial direction.

[0015] The cylindrical connection portion 10a is inserted into the cartridge support 11 when

attaching the water purification cartridge. During the insertion, the downstream 0-ring 13a is rubbed

against a first edge 15 and further rubbed against a second edge 16. That is, the downstream 0-ring 13a is rubbed twice during a single insertion. Accordingly, the downstream 0-ring 13a is likely to be damaged (problem 1 to be solved).

[0016] At an initial stage of the insertion, only the downstream 0-ring 13a is inside the cartridge support 11, and the upstream 0-ring 13b has not yet reached the inside of the cartridge support 11. In this state, the center line zl of the water

purification cartridge tends to be inclined with respect to the cartridge support 11. As a result of

this inclination, radially distal ends 17 and 18 of wall portions located on both sides of the downstream 0-ring 13a are brought into contact with the inner surface of the cartridge support 11. The cylindrical connection portion 10a is inserted into

the cartridge support 11 with the radially distal ends 17 and 18 being in contact with the inner surface. For this reason, the inner surface of the cartridge support 11 is likely to be damaged (problem 2 to be solved).

[0017] If the outlet port 10e is inclined with respect to the radial direction while securing the cross-sectional area of the outlet port 10e, the length of a peripheral portion of the outlet port

10e in the axial direction increases. The increase in the length in the axial direction often incurs an increase in the overall length of the water purification cartridge and adversely affects the water purification performance (reduces the length

of a water purification material). On the other hand, in the state where the outlet port 10e extends

in the radial direction, purified water discharged radially outward comes into contact substantially perpendicularly to a surface of a member forming a flow path and then flows toward the downstream side (see the arrow in FIG 13). In this case, the

resistance of the flow path is likely to increase (problem 3 to be solved).

[0018] Scale, dirt, and the like may be deposited in a gap 19 between the radially distal end 17 of the wall portion located on the upstream side of the

downstream 0-ring 13a and a member facing the radially distal end 17. These deposited substances

may be scraped off by the downstream 0-ring 13a at the time of detaching the water purification cartridge and may enter a purified water flow path from the purified water receiving port 11a (problem 4 to be solved).

[0019] The following embodiment can solve the above-described newly found problems to be solved.

[0020] [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a faucet device 102 according to one embodiment. The faucet device 102 is installed in a kitchen sink (not shown). FIG. 1 does not show portions that are not visually recognized, i.e., portions inside the kitchen sink. The faucet device 102 can be installed not only in a kitchen sink but also in, for example, a washbasin and a bathroom.

[0021] The faucet device 102 includes a body portion 104, a lever handle 106, and a water discharge head 108 having a water purification

function. The faucet device 102 is a so-called single-lever type faucet. The temperature of

discharge water can be adjusted by turning the lever handle 106 leftward and rightward. The amount of discharge water can be adjusted by turning the lever handle 106 up and down. A valve mechanism that enables the adjustment of the temperature and the

amount of discharge water is accommodated inside the body portion 104. A known valve mechanism is used as this valve mechanism.

[0022] Although not shown in the drawings, a faucet apparatus provided with the faucet device 102

includes a heated-water inlet pipe and a water inlet pipe. The heated-water inlet pipe is connected to, for example, piping extending from a water heater. The water inlet pipe is connected to, for example, piping of a public water supply system without passing through the water heater.

[0023] Heated water is led to the heated-water

inlet pipe. Water is heated using the water heater. Water that is not heated is led to the water inlet pipe. The mixing ratio between heated water and water is adjusted by the valve mechanism. The temperature of discharge water can be adjusted by adjusting this mixing ratio. Hereinafter, heated water, unheated water, and a mixture of heated water and unheated water may be collectively referred to simply as "water".

[0024] The water discharge head 108 includes a water inlet portion 110, a switching portion 112, an operating portion 114, a water-shape adjusting portion 116, a display portion 120, and a discharge port 122. In the present embodiment, the operating

portion 114 is a push button. The water inlet portion 110 also functions as a grip portion.

[0025] The water-shape adjusting portion 116 can change the shape of discharge water (water stream shape). The water-shape adjusting portion 116 includes a water-shape adjusting lever 118. Water stream shape can be changed by operating the water

shape adjusting lever 118. Selection from two or more water stream shapes can be achieved by operating the water-shape adjusting lever 118. When the faucet device 102 is configured such that two water stream shapes are selectable, the selectable

water stream shapes are preferably a straight stream shape and a shower stream shape. When the faucet

device 102 is configured such that three water stream shapes are selectable, the selectable water stream shapes are preferably a straight stream shape and first and second shower stream shapes with different shower stream patterns. The present

embodiment employs this configuration. The shower stream patterns are differentiated by, for example, the range, amount, and water pressure of shower stream.

[0026] The water discharge head 108 includes a raw water flow path and a purified water flow path. When the raw water flow path is selected, raw water is discharged from the discharge port 122. The state where raw water is discharged is also referred to as a "raw water discharge state". When the purified water flow path is selected, purified water is discharged from the discharge port 122. The state where purified water is discharged is also referred to as a "purified water discharge state".

[0027] The switching portion 112 includes a switching mechanism that enables switching of

discharge water between purified water and raw water through an operation of the operating portion 114. This switching mechanism enables selection between the raw water discharge state and the purified water discharge state.

[0028] FIG. 2 is a front view of the water discharge head 108. FIG. 3(a) and FIG. 3(b) are cross-sectionals views taken along line A-A in FIG. 2. The difference between FIG. 3(a) and FIG. 3(b) is the position in the circumferential direction of

the water purification cartridge (angular position of the water purification cartridge about its center

line). In FIG. 3(a) and FIG. 3(b), the operating portion 114 is at a projected position. FIG. 4(a), FIG. 4(b), FIG. 5(a), and FIG. 5(b) are also cross sectional views of the water discharge head 108. FIG. 4(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line

a-a in FIG. 4(b). FIG. 4(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line b-b in FIG. 4(a). In FIG. 4(a) and FIG. 4(b), the operating portion 114 is at the projected position. FIG. 5(a) is a cross sectional view taken along line a-a in FIG. 5(b).

FIG. 5(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line b-b in FIG. 5(a). In FIG. 5(a) and FIG. 5(b), the operating portion 114 is at a depressed position. In each of FIG. 4(a), FIG. 4(b), FIG. 5(a), and FIG.

5(b), lines seen behind the cross section are omitted.

[0029] The operating portion 114 functions as a switching button. The operating portion 114 is pushed to perform switching between the flow paths.

Every time the operating portion 114 is pushed, switching between the raw water flow path and the

purified water flow path is achieved. In other words, every time the operating portion 114 is pushed, switching between the raw water discharge state and the purified water discharge state is achieved. The switching mechanism includes a thrust

lock mechanism handled by an alternate action. This thrust lock enables the operating portion 114 to function as a push button. Every time the push button 114 is pushed, the positional shift of the push button 114 between the projected position and

the depressed position occurs. This switching mechanism is known.

[0030] In the present embodiment, raw water is discharged when the push button 114 is at the projected position, and purified water is discharged when the push button 114 is at the depressed position. Accordingly, FIG. 3(a), FIG. 3(b), FIG.

4(a), and FIG. 4(b) show the raw water discharge state, and FIG. 5(a) and FIG. 5(b) show the purified water discharge state. Alternatively, on the contrary, purified water may be discharged when the push button 114 is at the projected position, and raw water may be discharged when the push button 114 is at the depressed position.

[0031] The water discharge head 108 includes a water purification cartridge PC1. The water

purification cartridge PCl is disposed inside the water inlet portion 110. The water inlet portion 110 includes an outer cylindrical portion 124. The water purification cartridge PCl is disposed inside the outer cylindrical portion 124.

[0032] A raw water flow path WG is formed outside the water purification cartridge PC1. A purified

water flow path WJ is formed inside the water purification cartridge PC1. In the raw water discharge state, raw water that has passed through the raw water flow path WG is discharged from the discharge port 122 after passing through a raw water

flow path WG formed inside the switching mechanism. On the other hand, in the purified water discharge state, raw water is filtered by a permeable portion 126 of the water purification cartridge PCl to be purified water in the process of flowing into the

water purification cartridge PCl from outside the water purification cartridge PC1. The purified

water is discharged from the discharge port 122 after passing through the purified water flow path WJ inside the water purification cartridge PCl and a purified water flow path WJ formed inside the switching mechanism. The permeable portion 126 is

an example of a water purification function portion.

[0033] The switching portion 112 of the water discharge head 108 includes a first valve 130 and a second valve 132. Switching of discharge water can be performed through opening and closing operations of these two valves.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 4(b), the first valve 130 includes a valve seat 130a, a first valve body 130b, a ball holder 130c, and an elastic body 130d. The

first valve 130 is a ball valve. The first valve body 130b is a ball. The valve seat 130a is an opening edge of a circular hole. The ball 130b is held by the ball holder 130c. The ball holder 130c is open downward. The elastic body 130d is disposed

between an upper portion of the ball holder 130c and the ball 130b. The elastic body 130d is a coil

spring. The ball 130b is biased by the elastic body 130d toward the valve seat 130a at all times.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 5(b), the second valve 132 includes a valve seat 132a, a second valve body 132b, a ball holder 132c, and an elastic body 132d.

The second valve 132 is a ball valve. The second valve body 132b is a ball. The valve seat 132a is an opening edge of a circular hole. The ball 132b is held by the ball holder 132c. The ball holder 132c is open downward. The elastic body 132d is

disposed between an upper portion of the ball holder 132c and the ball 132b. The elastic body 132d is a

coil spring. The ball 132b is biased by the elastic body 132d toward the valve seat 132a at all times.

[0036] The push button 114 is connected to the ball holder 130c and the ball holder 132c with the thrust lock mechanism interposed between the push

button 114 and the ball holders 130c and 132c. The ball holder 130c and the ball holder 132c move together with the push button 114. The ball 130b moves together with the ball holder 130c, and the ball 132b moves together with the ball holder 132c.

The valve seat 130a and the valve seat 132a are arranged side by side in a direction substantially perpendicular to the moving direction of the push button 114, and their positions are (slightly)

different from each other in the moving direction.

[0037] Referring now to FIG. 4(a) and FIG. 4(b), when the operating portion 114 is at the projected position, the ball 132b is fitted into the valve seat 132a, whereby the second valve 132 is closed.

At this time, the center of the ball 130b is located off the center of the valve seat 130a, and the first

valve 130 is thus open. In this state, raw water is discharged. The second valve 132 is a purified water shut-off valve that closes the purified water flow path.

[0038] Referring now to FIG. 5(a) and FIG. 5(b),

when the operating portion 114 is at the depressed position, the ball 130b is fitted into the valve seat 130a, whereby the first valve 130 is closed. At this time, the center of the ball 132b is located off the center of the valve seat 132a, and the

second valve 132 is thus open. In this state, purified water is discharged. The first valve 130

is a raw water shut-off valve that closes the raw water flow path.

[0039] The water discharge head 108 includes a water purification cartridge catching portion 134. The water purification cartridge catching portion

134 includes a cylindrical hollow portion 136 in which an intermediate portion of the water purification cartridge PCl is disposed and a connection receiving portion 138. The cylindrical hollow portion 136 is formed inside the outer cylindrical portion 124. The connection receiving portion 138 is located on the downstream side of the cylindrical hollow portion 136.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the water

purification cartridge PC1. FIG. 7(a) is a side view of the water purification cartridge PC1, FIG. 7(b) is a front view of the water purification cartridge PC1, FIG. 7(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line c-c in FIG. 7(b), and FIG. 7(d) is

a cross-sectional view taken along line d-d in FIG. 7(b).

[0041] The water purification cartridge PCl includes an intermediate portion 150, a connection terminal portion 152 disposed at the front end of the intermediate portion 150, and a rear forming portion 154 disposed at the rear end of the

intermediate portion 150. The connection terminal portion 152 is coaxial with the intermediate portion 150. The rear forming portion 154 is coaxial with the intermediate portion 150.

[0042] The connection terminal portion 152 is

provided on the downstream side of the intermediate portion 150. The inside of the connection terminal

portion 152 is an empty space. This empty space functions as the purified water flow path WJ. That is, the connection terminal portion 152 includes the purified water flow path WJ inside thereof. The connection terminal portion 152 is made of a resin.

The connection terminal portion 152 as a whole is provided as a single member. The connection terminal portion 152 is formed in one piece with a resin. Alternatively, the connection terminal portion 152 may be formed by combining a plurality of separately formed members.

[0043] The intermediate portion 150 has a cylindrical shape. The intermediate portion 150 includes a permeable portion 151 that allows water

to pass through the permeable portion 151. The intermediate portion 150 has a filtering function. The intermediate portion 150 includes an empty space in the inside thereof. The empty space functions as the purified water flow path WJ. The intermediate

portion 150 may include, for example, an outer filter layer and an inner filter layer. A water

purification material may be disposed between the outer filter layer and the inner filter layer. The water purification material contains, for example, activated carbon as a principal component. For example, a nonwoven fabric is used to form the outer

filter layer and the inner filter layer. An antibacterial ceramic material may be used to form the outer filter layer and/or the inner filter layer. An ion exchanger may be used to form the outer filter layer and/or the inner filter layer. A

plurality of outer filter layers may be provided. A plurality of inner filter layers may be provided.

The intermediate portion 150 of the present embodiment is an example of the water purification function portion (portion having a water purification function). The intermediate portion 150 does not have to have a filtering function. The

intermediate portion 150 may be a cylindrical wall portion that is impermeable to water.

[0044] The water purification cartridge PCl of the present embodiment includes a purification material that can remove chlorine. Examples of the purification material include activated carbon.

[0045] The rear forming portion 154 closes the rear side of the intermediate portion 150. On the other hand, the connection terminal portion 152 is

permeable to water. The inside empty space of the connection terminal portion 152 serves as the purified water flow path WJ. Purified water obtained after raw water has passed through the intermediate portion 150 flows through the

connection terminal portion 152 and then flows into the switching portion 112.

[0046] Alternatively, the rear forming portion 154 may be permeable to water. For example, raw water may flow into the intermediate portion 150 from a through-hole provided in the rear forming portion 154 of the water purification cartridge PC1.

In this case, the intermediate portion 150 may be a cylindrical wall portion that is impermeable to water.

[0047] The connection terminal portion 152 includes a first cylindrical portion 160. The

connection terminal portion 152 further includes a second cylindrical portion 162. The connection

terminal portion 152 further includes a third cylindrical portion 164. The connection terminal portion 152 further includes a cylindrical holding portion 166. The first cylindrical portion 160 is located on the downstream side of the second

cylindrical portion 162. The second cylindrical portion 162 is located on the downstream side of the third cylindrical portion 164. The third cylindrical portion 164 is located on the downstream side of the cylindrical holding portion 166. The second cylindrical portion 162 is located between the first cylindrical portion 160 and the third cylindrical portion 164. The first cylindrical portion 160 is coaxial with the second cylindrical portion 162. The second cylindrical portion 162 is coaxial with the third cylindrical portion 164. The third cylindrical portion 164 is coaxial with the cylindrical holding portion 166. The center line of the first cylindrical portion 160 coincides with the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1. The center line of the second cylindrical portion 162 coincides with the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1. The center line of the third cylindrical portion 164 coincides with the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1. The center line of the cylindrical holding portion 166 coincides with the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1.

[0048] The connection terminal portion 152 is provided with a first annular packing s1 and a second annular packing s2. In the present

embodiment, the first annular packing s1 is an 0 ring. In the present embodiment, the second annular

packing s2 is an 0-ring.

[0049] The connection terminal portion 152 includes a maximum outer diameter portion. In the present embodiment, the cylindrical holding portion 166 is the maximum outer diameter portion of the

connection terminal portion 152. The maximum outer diameter portion (cylindrical holding portion 166) covers the downstream-side end portion of the intermediate portion 150. The maximum outer diameter portion (cylindrical holding portion 166) holds the downstream-side end portion of the intermediate portion 150.

[00501 The outer diameter of the first cylindrical portion 160 is smaller than that of the

second cylindrical portion 162. The outer diameter of the second cylindrical portion 162 is smaller than that of the third cylindrical portion 164. The outer diameter of the third cylindrical portion 164 is smaller than that of the cylindrical holding

portion 166.

[0051] The connection terminal portion 152 is

provided with the first annular packing s1 and the second annular packing s2. The first annular packing s1 is disposed on the first cylindrical portion 160. The second annular packing s2 is disposed on the second cylindrical portion 162.

[0052] FIG. 8 is a fragmentary enlarged view of FIG. 7(c). FIG. 9 is a fragmentary enlarged view of FIG. 7(d).

[00531 The first cylindrical portion 160 constitutes the downstream-side end portion of the

connection terminal portion 152. The first cylindrical portion 160 constitutes the downstream

side end portion of the water purification cartridge PC1.

[0054] The first cylindrical portion 160 constitutes the downstream-side end portion of the water purification cartridge PC1. The first

cylindrical portion 160 constitutes the downstream side end portion of the connection terminal portion 152.

[00551 The connection terminal portion 152 includes a front end portion 170. In the present embodiment, the first cylindrical portion 160 is the front end portion 170. The front end portion 170 includes a first groove 172. The first groove 172 is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the front end portion 170 (first cylindrical portion 160). The first groove 172 is a circumferential groove. The first groove 172 is formed between a front wall portion 173a and a rear wall portion 173b. The front wall portion 173a forms a side surface of the first groove 172 on the front side. The rear wall portion 173b forms a side surface of the first groove 172 on the rear side.

[00561 The first annular packing s1 is disposed on the front end portion 170. The first annular packing s1 is disposed on the first groove 172.

[0057] The front end portion 170 has a front end

surface 174. The front end surface 174 is the front end surface of the water purification cartridge PC1. The front end surface 174 is the front end surface of the connection terminal portion 152. The front end surface 174 is a flat surface. The front end

surface 174 extends along the radial direction. The front end surface 174 is annular (see FIG. 7(b)).

The front end surface 174 is provided so as to extend throughout the circumferential direction. The center of the front end surface 174 is positioned on the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1.

[00581 The front end portion 170 is impermeable to water. The inner surface of the front end portion 170 faces the purified water flow path WJ. In the present embodiment, the inner surface of the front end portion 170 includes an inner surface 194 to be described below. The outer surface of the front end portion 170 faces the raw water flow path WG. In the present embodiment, the outer surface of the front end portion 170 includes the front end surface 174 and a recess 176. The outer surface of the front end portion 170 has the recess 176. The inner surface and the outer surface of the front end portion 170 are partitioned off from each other by the first annular packing s1. The center line of the front end portion 170 coincides with the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1.

The front end portion 170 is disposed at a position where it intersects the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1.

[00591 The recess 176 is opened toward the downstream side. The recess 176 is opened frontward

in the axial direction. The recess 176 is opened to the raw water flow path WG. The recess 176 is impermeable to water. The recess 176 has a circular cross section (see FIG. 7(b)). The front end surface 174 is disposed on the circumference

(outside in the radial direction) of the recess 176. The recess 176 forms an empty space inside the front

end portion 170. The empty space formed by the recess 176 is in a cylindrical shape. The empty space formed by the recess 176 is located radially inward of the first annular packing s1. The empty space formed by the recess 176 is located radially

inward of the first groove 172. The center line of the front end surface 174 coincides with the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1.

[00601 As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the recess 176 has a side surface 178 and a bottom surface 180.

The side surface 178 is a circumferential surface. The side surface 178 is located radially inward of the first groove 172. The bottom surface 180 is a flat surface. The bottom surface 180 extends along

the radial direction. The bottom surface 180 is circular. The center of the bottom surface 180 is positioned on the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1.

[0061] The recess 176 forms the empty space located radially inward of the first groove 172. The recess 176 forms the empty space located radially inward of a bottom surface 172a.

[0062] The front end portion 170 includes a partition wall 190. The partition wall 190 is impermeable to water. The partition wall 190 is located on the upstream side relative to the front

end surface 174. The partition wall 190 extends along the radial direction. The center line of the partition wall 190 coincides with the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1.

[0063] The partition wall 190 intersects the

center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1. That is, the partition wall 190 is provided at

a position where it intersects the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1. In the present embodiment, the partition wall 190 intersects the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PCl at the center of the

partitioning wall 190. Alternatively, the partition wall 190 may intersect the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PCl at a position other than the center. The partition wall 190 constitutes the bottom surface 180 of the recess 176. The bottom surface 180 is an outer surface 192 of the partition wall 190. As described above, the outer surface of the front end portion 170 includes the recess 176 whose bottom surface 180 is the outer surface 192 of the partition wall 190.

[0064] The partition wall 190 serves as a partition between the inside and the outside of the water purification cartridge PC1. The outer surface 192 of the partition wall 190 constitutes an outer

surface of the water purification cartridge PC1. The outer surface 192 faces the raw water flow path

WG. The inner surface 194 of the partition wall 190 constitutes an inner surface of the water purification cartridge PC1. The inner surface 194 faces the purified water flow path WJ.

[0065] The connection terminal portion 152

includes a coupling extension portion 200. The coupling extension portion 200 connects the first cylindrical portion 160 and the second cylindrical portion 162. As shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7(b), a plurality of coupling extension portions 200 are

arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. In the present embodiment, four coupling

extension portions 200 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The coupling extension portions 200 extend in a direction inclined with respect to the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1. The

coupling extension portions 200 respectively extend inward in the radial direction as going further to the downstream side. The coupling extension portions 200 connect the downstream side of the second cylindrical portion 162 and the upstream side of the first cylindrical portion 160.

[00661 The second cylindrical portion 162 includes a second groove 210. The second groove 210 is a circumferential groove. The second groove 210

is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the second cylindrical portion 162. The second annular packing s2 is disposed on the second groove 210. The inside of the second cylinder portion 162 is an empty space. The space inside the second

cylindrical portion 162 serves as the purified water flow path WJ.

[0067] The second cylindrical portion 162 includes a downstream-side end face 212. The downstream-side end face 212 is a flat surface. The downstream-side end face 212 extends along the radial direction. The downstream-side end face 212

is annular. The downstream-side end face 212 is formed so as to extend throughout the circumferential direction.

[00681 The downstream-side end face 212 may be formed continuously throughout the circumferential

direction with no gap. Alternatively, segments that are separated one from another by the coupling

extension portions 200 and are arranged in the circumferential direction may constitute the downstream-side end face 212. Alternatively, the downstream-side end face 212 may include a portion(s) formed continuously in the

circumferential direction with no gap and a portion(s) in which the segments separated one from another by the coupling extension portions 200 are arranged in the circumferential direction. In the present embodiment, the downstream-side end face 212 is formed by four segments 214 that are separated one from another by the coupling extension portions 200 and are arranged in the circumferential direction.

[00691 Each coupling extension portion 200 includes an extension downstream surface 202. The extension downstream surface 202 is a surface of the coupling extension portion 200 on the downstream side. The extension downstream surface 202 has a

configuration 1 in which it extends inward in the radial direction as going further to the downstream

side. This configuration 1 attains an advantageous effect 1. The advantageous effect 1 is that when the connection terminal portion 152 of the water purification cartridge PCl is inserted to the connection receiving portion 138 in the water

purification cartridge catching portion 134 of the water discharge head 108 and a portion of the connection receiving portion 138 is brought into contact with each extension downstream surface 202, the configuration 1 adjusts the position of this

portion of the connection receiving portion 138 such that the center line of the connection terminal

portion 152 coincides with the center line of the connection receiving portion 138, thereby preventing damage to the connection terminal portion 152 and the connection receiving portion 138 as well as improving ease of handling in insertion of the

connection terminal portion 152 of the water purification cartridge PCl to the connection receiving portion 138 in the water purification cartridge catching portion 134 of the water discharge head 108.

[0070] The downstream-side end face 212 has a configuration 2 in which it extends in the radial direction, that is, it is a surface perpendicular to the axial direction. The water discharge head 108

may include a press portion to be pressed by the water purification cartridge PCl when inserting the connection terminal portion 152 of the water purification cartridge PCl into the connection receiving portion 138. A water discharge head

having a water purification function, water purification cartridge, and faucet device that are

configured to exhibit particular functions when the press portion is pressed are envisaged. Examples of these particular functions include switching of the discharge state (raw water discharge state or purified water discharge state) and control of the

switching of the discharge state. In this case, the configuration in which a surface of a portion of the connection terminal portion that presses the press portion extends in the radial direction, that is, the surface is perpendicular to the axial direction

brings about an advantageous effect 2 that pressing of the press portion can be performed accurately

and/or smoothly. The configuration in which the downstream-side end face 212 extends in the radial direction brings about this advantageous effect 2.

[0071] The configurations 1 and 2 can achieve both the advantageous effects 1 and 2 despite the

fact that the configurations 1 and 2 are disposed, within the connection terminal portion 152, in an identical region in the axial direction. Moreover, as a result of the fact that both the configurations are provided in the same axial-direction region of the connection terminal portion 152, an increase in the size of a water discharge head having a water purification function, a water purification cartridge, and a faucet device can be prevented, and also, the area of a region where a water purification function portion can be disposed can be increased.

[0072] The third cylindrical portion 164 includes a circumferential surface 220 and a stepped surface

222. The circumferential surface 220 is a circumferential surface. The center line of the

circumferential surface 220 coincides with the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1. The stepped surface 222 is a flat surface. The stepped surface 222 extends along the radial direction. The stepped surface 222 is annular. The

stepped surface 222 is formed so as to extend throughout the circumference direction. The space inside the third cylindrical portion 164 serves as the purified water flow path WJ.

[0073] The cylindrical holding portion 166

includes a circumferential surface 230 and a stepped surface 232. The circumferential surface 230 is a

circumferential surface. The center line of the circumferential surface 230 coincides with the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1. The stepped surface 232 is a flat surface. The stepped surface 232 extends along the radial

direction. The stepped surface 232 is annular. The stepped surface 232 is formed so as to extend throughout the circumference direction. The stepped surface 232 connects the upstream side of the circumferential surface 220 and the downstream side of the circumferential surface 230.

[0074] The connection terminal portion 152 includes a purified water outlet hole 240. The first annular packing s1 is located on the

downstream side relative to the purified water outlet hole 240. The second annular packing s2 is located on the upstream side relative to the purified water outlet hole 240. The purified water outlet hole 240 is located between the first

cylindrical portion 160 (front end portion 170) and the second cylindrical portion 162. The first

cylindrical portion 160 is spaced apart from the second cylindrical portion 162 to form a gap that is the purified water outlet hole 240. The purified water outlet hole 240 is formed each between the coupling extension portions 200 adjacent to each

other in the circumferential direction.

[0075] FIG. 10 is a fragmentary enlarged view of FIG. 3(b). FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the connection terminal portion 152. As described above, the water purification cartridge

catching portion 134 of the water discharge head 108 includes the connection receiving portion 138. The

connection receiving portion 138 includes a first receiving cylindrical portion 254 and a second receiving cylindrical portion 256. The first receiving cylindrical portion 254 is located on the downstream side relative to the second receiving

cylindrical portion 256. The first receiving cylindrical portion 254 is located on the downstream side relative to the second receiving cylindrical portion 256. The inner diameter of the first receiving cylindrical portion 254 is smaller than that of the second receiving cylindrical portion

256. The outer diameter of the first receiving cylindrical portion 254 is smaller than the inner diameter of the second receiving cylindrical portion

256.

[0076] The connection terminal portion 152 is connected to the connection receiving portion 138 in a watertight manner. The first annular packing s1 and the second annular packing s2 ensure the

watertightness. The first cylindrical portion 160 (front end portion 170) of the connection terminal

portion 152 is inserted inside the first receiving cylindrical portion 254. The first annular packing s1 is in tight contact with the inner circumferential surface of the first receiving cylindrical portion 254. The second cylindrical

portion 162 of the connection terminal portion 152 is inserted inside the second receiving cylindrical portion 256. The second annular packing s2 is in tight contact with the inner circumferential surface of the second receiving cylindrical portion 256. An

end surface 258 of the second receiving cylindrical portion 256 abuts against the stepped surface 222.

The position of the water purification cartridge PCl in the axial direction is set by this abutment.

[0077] The connection receiving portion 138 includes a purified water passage WJ1 that constitutes a part of the purified water flow path

WJ and is sectioned off from the raw water flow path WG to lead purified water discharged from the purified water outlet hole 240 so as not to flow into the raw water flow path WG (see FIG. 5(b) and FIG. 10). The connection receiving portion 138 also includes a raw water passage WG1 that constitutes a part of the raw water flow path WG and is sectioned off from the purified water passage WJ1 to lead raw water so as not to flow into the purified water passage WJ1 (see FIG. 4(a) and FIG. 10). The connection receiving portion 138 includes a partition wall 260 that forms the raw water passage WG1 (see FIG. 10). The partition wall 260 is connected to the downstream-side end portion of the first receiving cylindrical portion 254. The partition wall 260 is located on the downstream side of the recess 176. The partition wall 260 extends along the radial direction. The partition wall 260 forms the raw water passage WG1 located between the partition wall 260 and the recess 176. The raw water passage WG1 forms the raw water flow path WG that penetrates in the left-right direction (see FIG. 4(a)). The raw water passage WG1 leads raw water to the front end surface 174 of the water purification cartridge PC1. The raw water passage WG1 leads raw water to the recess 176. The front end surface 174 faces the raw water flow path WG. The recess 176 faces the raw water flow path WG.

The first annular packing s1 and the second annular packing s2 prevent purified water flowing out of the purified water outlet hole 240 from flowing into the raw water flow path WG. The first annular packing s1 prevents water flowing out of the raw water

passage WG1 from flowing into the purified water flow path WJ. The second annular packing s2 prevents water flowing out of the raw water flow path WG from flowing into the outlet of the purified water outlet hole 240. The second annular packing s2 prevents purified water flowing out of the purified water outlet hole 240 from flowing into the raw water flow path WG.

[0078] A water permeable member 270 is provided

on the downstream side of the recess 176 (see FIG. 10). The water permeable member 270 is disposed facing the front end surface 174. The water permeable member 270 is provided facing the raw water passage WG1. The water permeable member 270

is disposed between the raw water passage WG1 and the front end surface 174. The water permeable

member 270 is disposed between the raw water passage WG1 and the recess 176. In the present embodiment, the water permeable member 270 is a net. This net is a metal net (meshed metal net). The water permeable member 270 does not hinder the flow of

water in the raw water flow path WG. The water flowing through the raw water passage WG1 may hit against the front end surface 174. The water flowing through the raw water passage WG1 may flow into the recess 176. The water permeable member 270

can prevent the entry of foreign substances into the raw water passage WG1.

[0079] FIG. 11 is a fragmentary enlarged view of FIG. 5(b). The purified water outlet hole 240 of the water purification cartridge PCl includes an outlet opening edge 242. The outlet opening edge 242 includes a radially inner edge 242a and a

radially outer edge 242b. The radially inner edge 242a is circular as a whole. The center of the radially inner edge 242a is positioned on the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1. The radially outer edge 242b is circular as a whole.

The center of the radially outer edge 242b is positioned on the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1. The radially inner edge 242a is located inside in the radial direction with

respect to the radially outer edge 242b. The radially inner edge 242a is located on the downstream side with respect to the radially outer edge 242b.

[00801 The dashed line in FIG. 11 indicates a

straight line Li that connects the radially inner edge 242a and the radially outer edge 242b. The

two-dot chain line in FIG. 11 indicates a straight line L2 that is perpendicular to the straight line Li. The straight line L2 is inclined so as to extend outward in the radial direction as going further to the downstream side. The double-headed

arrow 0 in FIG. 11 indicates an angle formed between the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PCi and the straight line L2. This angle 0 is also referred to as an opening inclination angle.

[0081] The double-headed arrow Si in FIG. 11 indicates the radial-direction opening width of the

outlet opening edge 242 of the purified water outlet hole 240. The outlet opening edge 242 has the radial-direction opening width Si. The radial direction opening width Si is the distance between the radially inner edge 242a and the radially outer

edge 242b in the radial direction. The double headed arrow V in FIG. 11 indicates the axial direction width of the outlet opening edge 242. The outlet opening edge 242 has the axial-direction width V. The axial-direction width V is the distance between the radially inner edge 242a and the radially outer edge 242b in the axial direction.

[0082] The purified water outlet hole 240 penetrates in the axial direction. In other words,

the purified water outlet hole 240 is continuous in the axial direction. FIG. 12 is an enlarged sectional view showing a part of FIG. 11 in an enlarged state. In the cross section taken along the center line zl, the purified water outlet hole

240 allows straight lines X extending in the axial direction to pass therethrough (see the arrow yl in

FIG. 12). In the cross section taken along the center line zl, the purified water outlet hole 240 has, as the straight lines X, a straight line Xl located on the radially outermost side and a straight line X2 located on the radially innermost

side. The straight lines Xl and X2 are located apart from each other in the radial direction. That is, there is a distance between the straight lines Xl and X2 in the radial direction. The distance in the radial direction is also referred to as the

front-rear penetration width. The purified water outlet hole 240 has a front-rear penetration width

S2. In the present embodiment, the front-rear penetration width S2 is equal to the radial direction opening width Si.

[0083] In FIG. 9, the double-headed arrow Ml indicates the width of the first groove 172. The

groove width Ml (mm) is measured along the axial direction. In FIG. 9, the double-headed arrow M2 indicates the width of the second groove 210. The groove width M2 (mm) is measured along the axial direction. The groove width Ml is larger than the groove width M2.

[0084] In the present disclosure, the diameter of the cross section of the first annular packing s1 is defined as a cross-sectional diameter Dl (mm), and

the diameter of the cross section of the second annular packing s2 is defined as a cross-sectional diameter D2 (mm). Note here that the cross sectional diameter Dl is the diameter measured in a state where the first annular packing s1 is present

alone. That is, the cross-sectional diameter Dl is measured in a state where no external force is

applied to the first annular packing s1. Similarly, the cross-sectional diameter D2 is the diameter measured in a state where the second annular packing s2 is present alone. That is, the cross-sectional diameter D2 is measured in a state where no external

force is applied to the second annular packing s2.

[0085] The cross-sectional diameter Dl is smaller than the cross-sectional diameter D2. The cross sectional diameter Dl is smaller than the groove width Ml. The cross-sectional diameter D2 is

smaller than the groove width M2

[0086] As shown in FIG. 9, the groove width Ml is

larger than the cross-sectional diameter Dl of the first annular packing s1. In the first groove 172, the first annular packing s1 is disposed with a gap in the axial direction. In the first groove 172, the first annular packing s1 can move in the axial

direction.

[0087] The bottom surface 172a of the first groove 172 is a circumferential surface as a whole and thus has a diameter. The diameter of the bottom surface 172a changes depending on the position in the axial direction. In the present embodiment, the diameter of the bottom surface 172a on the downstream side is smaller than that on the upstream side. In FIG. 9, the first annular packing s1 is located on the upstream-most side in the first groove 172. When the first annular packing s1 moves toward the downstream side in the first groove 172, the compression of the first annular packing s1 is loosened. Also, when the first annular packing s1 moves toward the downstream side in the first groove 172, the inner diameter of the first annular packing s1 is reduced and the outer diameter of the first annular packing s1 is also reduced. The movement of the first annular packing s1 to the downstream side facilitates the detachment of the water purification cartridge PC1.

[00881 As shown in FIG. 9, the groove width M2 is larger than the cross-sectional diameter D2 of the second annular packing s2. In the second groove 210, the first annular packing s1 is disposed with a gap in the axial direction. In the second groove

210, the second annular packing s2 can move in the axial direction.

[00891 A bottom surface 210a of the second groove 210 is a circumferential surface as a whole and thus has a diameter. The diameter of the bottom surface 210a is larger than the diameter of the bottom surface 172a. The diameter of the bottom surface

210a does not change depending on the position in the axial direction. The diameter of the bottom surface 210a is constant. In FIG. 9, the second annular packing s2 is located on the upstream-most side in the second groove 210. Even if the second annular packing s2 moves in the axial direction in the second groove 210, the degree of compression of the second annular packing s2 does not change.

[00901 In FIG. 9, the double-headed arrow G1 indicates the outer diameter of the first annular packing s1. The outer diameter G1 is measured in a state where the first annular packing s1 is attached to the first groove 172 and the water purification cartridge PCl is not attached to the water discharge

head 108. In other words, the outer diameter G1 is measured in a state where the water purification

cartridge PCl is present alone without being attached. In FIG. 9, the double-headed arrow G2 indicates the outer diameter of the second annular packing s2. The outer diameter G2 is measured in a state where the second annular packing s2 is

attached to the second groove 210 and the water purification cartridge PCl is not attached to the water discharge head 108. In other words, the outer diameter G2 is measured in a state where the water purification cartridge PCl is present alone without

being attached. In the case where the diameter of the bottom surface of the groove varies as in the

case of the bottom surface 172a of the first groove 172, the outer diameters G1 and G2 of the annular packings are each measured with the annular packing being disposed at a position where the outer diameter of the bottom surface of the groove is at

its maximum.

[0091] The outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing si is smaller than the outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing s2.

[0092] In FIG. 9, the double-headed arrow W1 indicates the width obtained by subtracting the cross-sectional diameter Dl from the groove width Ml. That is, Wl=Ml-Dl. In FIG. 9, the double headed arrow W2 indicates the width obtained by subtracting the cross-sectional diameter D2 from the groove width M2. That is, W2=M2-D2. The first annular packing s1 and the second annular packing s2 in FIG. 9 are in the attached state and thus are compressed. Accordingly, strictly speaking, the cross-sectional width of the first annular packing s1 in FIG. 9 is not the cross-sectional diameter Dl.

Similarly, the cross-sectional width of the second annular packing s2 in FIG. 9 is not the cross sectional diameter D2. From this viewpoint, it is not appropriate to show the widths W1 and W2 in FIG. 9. However, for ease of understanding, FIG. 9 shows

the widths W1 and W2. Similarly, it is not appropriate to show the cross-sectional diameters Dl and D2 in FIG. 9. However, for ease of understanding, FIG. 9 shows the cross-sectional diameters Dl and D2.

[00931 The width W1 is larger than the width W2. In other words, the difference (M1-D1) is greater

than the difference (M2-D2).

[0094] Calcium, dirt, and the like contained in water are deposited in sealed portions sealed with the annular packings, whereby adhesion of the annular packings is caused. Further, the annular

packings swell because they are exposed to water all the time, and this swelling also can aggravate the adhesion. This adhesion makes it difficult to detach the water purification cartridge PCl from the connection receiving portion 138. In addition, since a great force is required to detach the water purification cartridge PC1, load is applied to the annular packings, whereby the deterioration of the annular packings can be accelerated.

[00951 As a result of providing the widths W1 and W2, the annular packings si and s2 can be easily deformed when detaching the water purification cartridge PC1. Accordingly, the detachability of the water purification cartridge PCi is improved.

In addition, the annular packings s1 and s2 are movable in the grooves. Accordingly, portions

adhering to each other are separated gradually, whereby the detachability is improved.

[00961 The present embodiment produces the following advantageous effects.

[0097] [Effect produced by G1<G2]

In the water purification cartridge PC1, the outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing s1 located on the downstream side is smaller than the outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing s2 located on the upstream side (see FIG. 9).

[00981 With this configuration, the above described problem 1 is solved. Since the outer

diameter G1 of the first annular packing s1 on the downstream side is small, the first annular packing s1 is unlikely to be rubbed against the edge 259 of the second receiving cylindrical portion 256 (see FIG. 10). Accordingly, unlike the case of the prior

art (FIG. 13), it is highly unlikely that the first annular packing si is rubbed twice during a single insertion. Therefore, the occurrence of damage to the first annular packing si on the downstream side is suppressed (packing damage suppressing effect).

[00991 This configuration also solves the above described problem 2. Since the outer diameter Gl of the first annular packing s1 is small, the outer diameter of the first cylindrical portion 160 in

which the first annular packing s1 is disposed is also small (see FIG. 7(a)). Accordingly, even if the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PCl is inclined at an initial stage of insertion of the water purification cartridge PC1,

it is unlikely that the first cylindrical portion 160 is brought into contact with the inner surface

of the second receiving cylindrical portion 256 (see FIG. 10). Therefore, the occurrence of damage to the inner surface of the connection receiving portion 138 is suppressed (receiving portion damage suppressing effect).

[0100] Moreover, with the configuration in which G1<G2, the straight line L2 (FIG. 11), which indicates the orientation of the purified water outlet hole 240, can be inclined easily and the penetration of the purified water outlet hole 240 in

the axial direction is easily achieved. Accordingly, this configuration also contributes to

solving the problems 3 and 4.

[0101] If the outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing s1 is excessively small, the strength of the front end portion 170 of the water purification cartridge PCl tends to be reduced, and

also, the watertightness achieved by the first annular packing si tends to be deteriorated. From this viewpoint, the outer diameter Gi is preferably greater than or equal to 7 mm, more preferably greater than or equal to 9 mm, and still more preferably greater than or equal to 10 mm. If the outer diameter G1 is excessively large, the size of the water purification cartridge PCl and the size of the water discharge head 108 also increase, which tends to incur upsizing of the faucet. From this viewpoint, the outer diameter G1 is preferably less than or equal to 18 mm, more preferably less than or equal to 15 mm, and still more preferably less than or equal to 13 mm. In the above-described embodiment, the outer diameter G1 is 11 mm.

[0102] If the outer diameter G2 of the second

annular packing s2 is excessively small, reduction in the flow rate of purified water is likely to occur. From this viewpoint, the outer diameter G2 is preferably greater than or equal to 12 mm, more preferably greater than or equal to 14 mm, and still

more preferably greater than or equal to 16 mm. If the outer diameter G2 is excessively large, the size of the water purification cartridge PCl and the size of the water discharge head 108 also increase, which tends to incur upsizing of the faucet. From this

viewpoint, the outer diameter G2 is preferably less than or equal to 25 mm, more preferably less than or

equal to 23 mm, and still more preferably less than or equal to 21 mm. In the above-described embodiment, the outer diameter G2 is 18.8 mm.

[0103] If the difference (G2-G1) is excessively small, the above-described packing damage

suppressing effect and receiving portion damage suppressing effect are reduced, whereby the effect of solving the problems 3 and 4 may also be reduced. In addition, if the difference (G2-G1) is excessively small, reduction in the flow rate of purified water is likely to occur. From these viewpoints, the difference (G2-Gl) is preferably greater than or equal to 3 mm, more preferably greater than or equal to 4 mm, and still more preferably greater than or equal to 6 mm. If the difference (G2-Gl) is excessively large, the size of the water purification cartridge PCl and the size of the water discharge head 108 also increase, which tends to incur upsizing of the faucet. From this viewpoint, the difference (G2-Gl) is preferably less than or equal to 15 mm, more preferably less than or equal to 12 mm, and still more preferably less than or equal to 10 mm. In the above-described embodiment, the difference (G2-G1) is 7.8 mm.

[0104] If the ratio (G2/G1) is excessively small, the above-described packing damage suppressing

effect and receiving portion damage suppressing effect are reduced, whereby the effect of solving the problems 3 and 4 may also be reduced. In addition, if the ratio (G2/G1) is excessively small, reduction in the flow rate of purified water is

likely to occur. From this viewpoint, G2/G1 is preferably greater than or equal to 1.2 mm, more

preferably greater than or equal to 1.3 mm, and still more preferably greater than or equal to 1.5 mm. If the ratio (G2/G1) is excessively large, the size of the water purification cartridge PCl and the size of the water discharge head 108 also increase,

which tends to incur upsizing of the faucet. From this viewpoint, G2/G1 is preferably less than or equal to 2.5 mm, more preferably less than or equal to 2.3 mm, and still more preferably less than or equal to 1.9 mm. In the above-described embodiment,

G2/Gl is 1.7 mm.

[0105] [Effect produced by opening inclination

angle 0]

As shown in FIG. 11, the purified water

outlet hole 240 (outlet opening edge 242) has the opening inclination angle 0.

[0106] This opening inclination angle 0 solves the above-described problem 3. As a result of setting this opening inclination angle 0, an

increase in the length of the purified water outlet hole 240 in the axial direction is suppressed, and

also, purified water can pass through the purified water outlet hole 240 while flowing obliquely frontward. Since an increase in the length of the purified water outlet hole 240 in the axial direction is suppressed, an increase in the overall

length of the water purification cartridge PCl and the occurrence of a problem in that the water purification performance (length of the water purification material) is sacrificed are suppressed (axial-direction length increase suppressing

effect). In addition, since purified water is discharged obliquely frontward from the purified

water outlet hole 240, the chances that the purified water may hit against surfaces of members constituting the flow path perpendicularly are reduced, whereby the resistance of the flow path can be reduced (flow path resistance reducing effect).

[0107] Furthermore, this opening inclination angle 0 solves the above-described problem 4. With the configuration shown in FIG. 13, water cannot easily flow into the gap 19 between the radially distal end 17 of the wall portion located on the upstream side of the downstream 0-ring 13a and the member facing the radially distal end 17. This is because the gap 19 extends in the axial direction, whereas the direction of water flow adjacent to the gap 19 is a substantially radial direction (see the arrow in FIG. 13). Accordingly, water tends to stay in the gap 19, whereby scale, dirt, and the like tend to be deposited in the gap 19. In contrast, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the opening inclination angle 0 is smaller than 90°, and this angle 0 causes water to flow obliquely frontward in the purified water outlet hole 240 (see the arrow y2 in FIG. 12). Water flowing obliquely frontward includes a component flowing axially frontward and thus easily flows into a gap 280 between the rear wall portion 173b and the first receiving cylindrical portion 254. Accordingly, water is unlikely to stay in the gap 280, and scale, dirt, and the like are unlikely to accumulate in the gap 280. As described above, if there are deposited substances in the gap 280, these deposited substances are likely to be scraped off by the first annular packing s1 at the time of detaching the water purification cartridge PCl and to enter the purified water flow path WJ from the purified water outlet hole 240. However, since water is unlikely to stay in the gap 280, formation of the deposited substances is suppressed, whereby the occurrence of a problem that deposited substances that have been scraped off flow into the purified water flow path WJ is suppressed (deposited substance formation suppressing effect).

[0108] If the opening inclination angle 0 is excessively small, the length of the connection terminal portion 152 increases, whereby the above described axial-direction length increase suppressing effect is reduced. From this viewpoint, the opening inclination angle 0 is preferably greater than or equal to 30°, more preferably greater than or equal to 40°, and more preferably greater than or equal to 50°. If the opening inclination angle 0 is excessively large, the flow path resistance reducing effect and the deposited substance formation suppressing effect are reduced.

From this viewpoint, the opening inclination angle 0 is preferably less than or equal to 800, more preferably less than or equal to 70°, and still more preferably less than or equal to 60°. In the present embodiment, the opening inclination angle 0

is 56°.

[0109] [Effect produced by purified water outlet hole penetrating in axial direction] As described above, the purified water outlet hole 240 penetrates in the axial direction

(see the arrow y1 in FIG. 12). Accordingly, water flow easily enters the gap 280, whereby the above

described deposited substance formation suppressing effect is further enhanced. In addition, water passing through the purified water outlet hole 240 easily flows in the axial direction, whereby the above-described flow path resistance reducing effect

is further enhanced.

[0110] If the front-rear penetration width S2 (see FIG. 12) is excessively small, the deposited substance formation suppressing effect and the flow path resistance reducing effect are reduced. From this viewpoint, the front-rear penetration width S2 is preferably greater than or equal to 1.05 mm and more preferably greater than or equal to 1.1 mm. If the front-rear penetration width S2 is excessively large, the outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing s2 also increases, resulting in upsizing of the water purification cartridge PCl and the water discharge head 108. Further, an increase in the outer diameter G2 tends to deteriorate the watertightness achieved by the second annular packing s2. From these viewpoints, the front-rear penetration width S2 is preferably less than or equal to 5 mm, more preferably less than or equal to 3 mm, and still more preferably less than or equal to 2 mm. In the present embodiment, the front-rear penetration width S2 is 1.1 mm.

[0111] If the radial-direction opening width Si (see FIG. 11) is excessively small, the deposited substance formation suppressing effect and the flow path resistance reducing effect are reduced. From this viewpoint, the radial-direction opening width

Si is preferably greater than or equal to 1.05 mm and more preferably greater than or equal to 1.1 mm.

If the radial-direction opening width Si is excessively large, the outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing s2 also increases, resulting in upsizing of the water purification cartridge PCi and the water discharge head 108. Further, an

increase in the outer diameter G2 tends to deteriorate the watertightness achieved by the second annular packing s2. From these viewpoints, the radial-direction opening width Si is preferably less than or equal to 5 mm, more preferably less than or equal to 3 mm, and still more preferably less than or equal to 2 mm. In the present embodiment, the radial-direction opening width Si is 1.1 mm.

[0112] [Effect produced by D1<D2] As described above, the cross-sectional diameter Dl of the first annular packing s1 is smaller than the cross-sectional diameter D2 of the second annular packing s2.

[0113] An annular packing with a small outer diameter has a problem in that a handling of

expanding the annular packing cannot be performed easily and thus having a low handleability. Accordingly, it is difficult to attach an annular packing with a small outer diameter to a groove. That is, an annular packing with a small outer

diameter having a low attachability and an annular packing with a large outer diameter having a high attachability.

[0114] An annular packing with a small cross sectional diameter is readily expandable and thus

can be attached to a groove easily. That is, an annular packing with a small cross-sectional

diameter having a high attachability. On the other hand, an annular packing with a large cross sectional diameter is hardly expandable and thus having a low attachability.

[0115] An annular packing with a small cross

sectional diameter can achieve a small amount of compressive deformation and thus having a low sealability. On the other hand, an annular packing with a large cross-sectional diameter can achieve a large amount of compressive deformation and thus having a high sealability. In addition, such an annular packing having a large amount of compressive deformation easily ensures its sealability even if there is a dimensional error in any surrounding member.

[0116] In the above-described embodiment, the first annular packing s1 on the downstream side may exhibit deteriorated attachability because of its small outer diameter G1. On this account, the

cross-sectional diameter Dl is set small to improve the attachability.

[0117] On the other hand, the second annular packing s2 on the upstream side having a high attachability because of its large outer diameter G2, and its attachability is high enough to allow for some deterioration. On this account, the cross

sectional diameter D2 is set large to improve the sealability.

[0118] From the viewpoint of the sealability, the cross-sectional diameter Dl of the first annular packing s1 is preferably greater than or equal to

1.0 mm, more preferably greater than or equal to 1.2 mm, and still more preferably greater than or equal

to 1.3 mm. From the viewpoint of the attachability, the cross-sectional diameter Dl is preferably less than or equal to 2.0 mm, more preferably less than or equal to 1.9 mm, and still more preferably less than or equal to 1.7 mm. In the above-described

embodiment, the cross-sectional diameter Dl is 1.5 mm.

[0119] From the viewpoint of the sealability, the cross-sectional diameter D2 of the second annular packing s2 is preferably greater than or equal to

1.3 mm, more preferably greater than or equal to 1.5 mm, and still more preferably greater than or equal to 1.7 mm. From the viewpoint of the attachability, the cross-sectional diameter D2 is preferably less

than or equal to 3.0 mm, more preferably less than or equal to 2.5 mm, and still more preferably less than or equal to 2.3 mm. In the above-described embodiment, the cross-sectional diameter D2 is 1.9 mm.

[0120] If the cross-sectional diameter D2 is excessively small, the sealability of the second

annular packing s2 is likely to be deteriorated. If the cross-sectional diameter Dl is excessively large, the attachability of the first annular packing s1 is likely to be deteriorated. That is, if the cross-sectional diameter D2 is excessively

small or the cross-sectional diameter Dl is excessively large, the overall performance considering the watertightness and the attachability is deteriorated. From this viewpoint, the difference (D2-D1) is preferably greater than or

equal to 0.1 mm, more preferably greater than or equal to 0.2 mm, and still more preferably greater

than or equal to 0.3 mm. If the cross-sectional diameter D2 is excessively large, the attachability of the second annular packing s2 is likely to be deteriorated. If the cross-sectional diameter Dl is excessively small, the sealability of the first

annular packing s1 is likely to be deteriorated. That is, if the cross-sectional diameter D2 is excessively large or the cross-sectional diameter Dl is excessively small, the overall performance considering the watertightness and the attachability is deteriorated. From this viewpoint, the difference (D2-D1) is preferably less than or equal to 1.0 mm, more preferably less than or equal to 0.8 mm, and still more preferably less than or equal to

0.6 mm. In the above-described embodiment, the difference (D2-D1) is 0.4 mm.

[0121] If the cross-sectional diameter D2 is excessively small or the cross-sectional diameter Dl is excessively large, the overall performance

considering the watertightness and the attachability is deteriorated. From this viewpoint, the ratio

(D2/D1) is preferably greater than or equal to 1.05, more preferably greater than or equal to 1.1, and still more preferably greater than or equal to 1.2. If the cross-sectional diameter D2 is excessively large or the cross-sectional diameter Dl is

excessively small, the overall performance considering the watertightness and the attachability is deteriorated. From this viewpoint, the ratio (D2/D1) is preferably less than or equal to 2.0, more preferably less than or equal to 1.5, and still

more preferably less than or equal to 1.3. In the above-described embodiment, the ratio (D2/D1) is

1.27.

[0122] [Effect produced by W1>W2] As described above, the width W1 is larger than the width W2. In other words, the difference (M1-D1) is greater than the difference (M2-D2) (see

FIG. 9).

[0123] The second annular packing s2 on the upstream side has a large cross-sectional diameter D2, and thus can be deformed easily when detaching the water purification cartridge PC1. Accordingly, the second annular packing s2 is unlikely to be a factor that contributes to the deterioration in detachability. On the other hand, the first annular packing s1 on the downstream side has a small cross sectional diameter Dl, and thus is not deformed easily when detaching the water purification cartridge PC1. Accordingly, the first annular packing s1 is likely to be a factor that contributes to the deterioration in detachability. On this account, the width W1 of the first annular packing s1, which is not deformed easily, is set larger than the width W2 to improve the detachability. If both the widths W1 and W2 are set large, the length of the connection terminal portion 152 in the axial direction increases, which incurs an increase in the length of the water purification cartridge PCl or deterioration of the water purification performance (decrease in the length of the water purification material). The occurrence of these inconveniences is suppressed by making the width W2 smaller than the width W1.

[0124] From the viewpoint of the detachability, the width W1 is preferably greater than or equal to

0.7 mm, more preferably greater than or equal to 0.9 mm, and still more preferably greater than or equal to 1.1 mm. From the viewpoint of suppressing the increase in length of the water purification cartridge PCl and the deterioration of the water

purification performance, the width W1 is preferably less than or equal to 2.0 mm, more preferably less than or equal to 1.8 mm, and still more preferably less than or equal to 1.5 mm. In the present embodiment, the width W1 is 1.3 mm.

[0125] From the viewpoint of the detachability, the width W2 is preferably greater than or equal to 0.2 mm, more preferably greater than or equal to 0.3 mm, and still more preferably greater than or equal

to 0.4 mm. From the viewpoint of suppressing the increase in length of the water purification cartridge PCl and the deterioration of the water purification performance, the width W2 is preferably less than or equal to 1.5 mm, more preferably less

than or equal to 1.1 mm, and still more preferably less than or equal to 0.8 mm. In the present

embodiment, the width W2 is 0.6 mm.

[0126] From the viewpoint of avoiding an excessively small width Wi and an excessively large width W2, the difference (W1-W2) is preferably greater than or equal to 0.1 mm, more preferably

greater than or equal to 0.3 mm, and still more preferably greater than or equal to 0.5 mm. From the viewpoint of avoiding an excessively large width Wi and an excessively small width W2, the difference (W1-W2) is preferably less than or equal to 1.5 mm,

more preferably less than or equal to 1.2 mm, and still more preferably less than or equal to 0.8 mm.

In the present embodiment, the difference (W1-W2) is 0.7 mm.

[0127] From the viewpoint of avoiding an excessively small width W2 and an excessively large width Wi, the ratio (W2/W1) is preferably greater

than or equal to 0.2, more preferably greater than or equal to 0.3, and still more preferably greater than or equal to 0.4. From the viewpoint of avoiding an excessively large width W2 and an excessively small width Wi, the ratio (W2/W1) is preferably less than or equal to 0.9, more preferably less than or equal to 0.8, and still more preferably less than or equal to 0.6. In the present embodiment, the ratio (W2/W1) is 0.46.

[0128] [Effect produced by recess] As described above, the outer surface of the front end portion 170 of the water purification cartridge PCl includes the recess 176 (see FIG. 9).

[0129] Since the first annular packing s1 is

placed in the front end portion 170, the front end portion 170 needs to have a predetermined length in

the axial direction. The first groove 172 is also provided in the front end portion 170, and the dimensional accuracy of the bottom surface 172a of the first groove 172 is an important factor for improving the sealability achieved by the first

annular packing s1.

[0130] If the inside of a packing placement portion (a portion on which the first annular packing s1 is placed) having a predetermined length in the axial direction is solid with no empty space,

large sink marks (shrinkage in forming) are caused during forming. This phenomenon can occur

regardless of whether the resin used is a thermoplastic resin or a thermosetting resin. For example, in injection forming of a thermoplastic resin, sink marks may be caused during cooling. For example, in forming of a thermosetting resin, sink

marks may be caused during curing of the resin. In addition, if the inside of the packing placement portion having a predetermined length in the axial direction is solid with no empty space, it causes a wide dimensional variation among individual products.

[0131] By providing an empty space radially inside of the packing placement portion, formation of the sink marks is suppressed and the dimensional variation is also suppressed. Accordingly, the dimensional accuracy of the bottom surface 172a of the first groove 172 is improved, and the sealability achieved by the first annular packing s1 is improved.

[0132] The recess located radially inward of the packing placement portion may be provided on the

outer surface of the front end portion 170 as in the water purification cartridge PC1. Alternatively, the recess may be provided on the inner surface of the front end portion 170.

[0133] When the recess is provided on the inner

surface of the front end portion 170, the recess faces the purified water flow path WJ. Purified water can flow into and stay in this recess. Considering hygienic aspects, it is not preferable that purified water from which chlorine has been

removed stays in the recess. In order to address this problem, in the present embodiment, the recess

176 is provided on the outer surface of the front end portion 170. The recess 176 faces the raw water flow path WG. Water that stays in the recess 176 is raw water. The present embodiment avoids the occurrence of a situation where purified water from

which chlorine has been removed stays in the recess.

[0134] Further, when the recess is provided on the inner surface of the front end portion 170, the shape of the flow path located radially inside of the purified water outlet hole 240 is made complicated by this recess, whereby turbulent flow is likely to occur. Because of this turbulent flow, the flow rate in the purified water outlet hole 240 can be reduced. Since purified water passes through the water purification function portion of the water purification cartridge PC1, the water pressure in the purified water flow path WJ is lower than the water pressure in the raw water flow path WG. When the flow rate in the purified water outlet hole 240 is reduced because of the turbulent flow, the flow rate in the purified water flow path WJ is further reduced. In the present embodiment, the occurrence of such a situation is avoided.

[0135] In FIG. 9, the double-headed arrow T indicates the shortest distance between the bottom surface 172a of the first groove 172 and the recess

176 (side surface 178). If the shortest distance T is excessively small, deterioration in the sealability may be caused because of the reduction in the strength and deformation of the bottom surface 172a. From this viewpoint, the shortest

distance T is preferably greater than or equal to 0.5 mm, more preferably greater than or equal to 1.0

mm, and still more preferably greater than or equal to 1.2 mm. If the shortest distance T is excessively large, the above-described sink marks become large. From this viewpoint, the shortest distance T is preferably less than or equal to 3.0

mm, more preferably less than or equal to 2.0 mm, and still more preferably less than or equal to 1.8 mm. In the above-described embodiment, the shortest distance T is 1.5 mm.

[0136] During switching between the raw water discharge state and the purified water discharge state, the first valve 130 (raw water shut-off valve) or the second valve 132 (purified water shut off valve) are instantaneously closed. In switching from the raw water discharge state to the purified water discharge state, the raw water flow path WG in which the water pressure is high is shut off instantaneously. Accordingly, a water hammer or a high water pressure is transmitted to the upstream side of the raw water flow path WG from the first valve 130 (raw water shut-off valve).

[0137] As described above, the outer surface of the front end portion 170 faces the raw water flow path WG (see FIG. 11). The water hammer or high water pressure acts on the front end portion 170, and this may cause the water purification cartridge

PCl to vibrate. The water purification cartridge PCl is caused to vibrate every time discharged water is switched. Such vibration can suppress the occurrence of adhesion of the packings s1 and s2.

[0138] As described above, the partition wall 190

is provided in the front end portion 170. The partition wall 190 is impermeable to water. The

partition wall 190 is provided at a position where it intersects the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1. With this configuration, the water hammer or high water pressure acting on the partition wall 190 can

effectively vibrate the water purification cartridge PC1. Accordingly, the occurrence of adhesion of the packings si and s2 can be suppressed effectively.

[0139] The partition wall 190 preferably extends along the radial direction. However, the partition wall 190 does not have to extend along the radial direction. In the above-described embodiment, the partition wall 190 extends along the radial direction. With this configuration, the water hammer or high water pressure acting on the partition wall 190 is effectively converted into a force applied in the axial direction. The force applied in the axial direction can effectively vibrate the water purification cartridge PCl in the axial direction (front-rear direction).

[0140] Although the center line of the partition

wall 190 preferably coincides with the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1, the center line of the partition wall 190 does not have to coincide with the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1. In the above-described

embodiment, the center line of the partition wall 190 coincides with the center line zl of the water purification cartridge PC1. Accordingly, the pressure acting on the partition wall 190 can be effectively transmitted to the water purification

cartridge PC1.

[0141] As described above, the recess 176 is

provided on the outer surface of the front end portion 170. The recess 176 can capture a water hammer or a high water pressure more efficiently as compared to a flat surface or the like with no recess. The recess 176 can accelerate the vibration

of the water purification cartridge PC1. Accordingly, the occurrence of adhesion of the packings si and s2 can be suppressed effectively.

[0142] The raw water passage WG1 extends along the radial direction. By providing the recess 176, water that flows through the raw water passage WG1 extending along the radial direction can be captured effectively. The recess 176 can effectively capture a water hammer or a high water pressure in the raw water passage WG1 extending along the radial direction.

[0143] As shown in FIG. 8, the recess 176 has the side surface 178 and the bottom surface 180. The bottom surface 180 extends in the radial direction.

Accordingly, the water hammer or high water pressure acting on the bottom surface 180 can cause vibration

in the axial direction. The side surface 178 extends in the axial direction. Accordingly, the water hammer or the high water pressure acting on the side surface 178 can cause vibration in the radial direction. Vibration in the two directions

can effectively suppress the occurrence of adhesion of the packings s1 and s2.

[0144] In the above-described embodiment, the annular packings s1 and s2 are O-rings. Each 0-ring has a circular cross section. Each annular packing

does not have to have a circular cross section. For example, each annular packing may be an 0-ring

having an elliptical cross section. The annular packings are not limited to 0-rings. Also, there is no limitation on the cross-sectional shape of the annular packings. Each annular packing may be, for example, a quadrilateral packing having a

quadrilateral cross section, a U-packing having a U shaped cross section, a V-packing having a V-shaped cross section, a Y-packing having a Y-shaped cross section, and an X-packing having an X-shaped cross section. From a comprehensive viewpoint of ensuring the sealability (watertightness) and suppressing the occurrence of adhesion of the annular packings to the water purification cartridge and other surrounding members, an 0-ring is preferable and an

0-ring having a circular cross section is particularly preferable as the annular packings.

[0145] Examples of the material of the connection terminal portion 152 include resins and metals. When the material is a metal, the connection

terminal portion 152 is preferably produced by sintering, casting, or forging from the viewpoint of

cost. From the viewpoint of cost, resins are preferable to metals. Examples of the resins include thermoplastic resins and thermosetting resins. Thermoplastic resins, which can be formed easily, are preferable. From the viewpoint of

formability, a polyoxymethylene resin (POM), a polyphenylene sulfide resin (PPS), an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene resin (ABS), and a polypropylene resin (PP) are more preferable. From the viewpoints of formability and cost, an acrylonitrile butadiene

styrene resin (ABS) and a polypropylene resin (PP) are particularly preferable.

[0146] Examples of the material of the front end portion 170 include resins and metals. When the material is a metal, the front end portion 170 is preferably produced by sintering, casting, or forging from the viewpoint of cost. From the

viewpoint of cost, resins are preferable to metals. Examples of the resins include thermoplastic resins and thermosetting resins. Thermoplastic resins, which can be formed easily, are preferable. From the viewpoint of formability, a polyoxymethylene resin (POM), a polyphenylene sulfide resin (PPS), an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene resin (ABS), and a polypropylene resin (PP) are more preferable. From the viewpoint of formability and cost, an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene resin (ABS) and a polypropylene resin (PP) are particularly preferable.

[0147] In the water purification cartridge PCl of the above-described embodiment, the intermediate

portion 150 includes the permeable portion 151 that allows water to pass through the permeable portion

151 from the outer circumferential surface of the water purification cartridge PCl to the inside of the water purification cartridge PC1. However, the configuration of the intermediate portion 150 is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, the

outer circumferential surface of the water purification cartridge PCl may be formed by an outer circumferential wall that is impermeable to water, and a permeable portion may be provided on the inside of this outer circumferential wall. In this

case, the water purification cartridge PCl may permit water to flow into the water purification

cartridge PCl from the rear end of the water purification cartridge PC1. For example, an inlet port may be provided at the upstream-side end (rear end) of the water purification cartridge PC1. This inlet port may be provided in the rear forming

portion 154. Water can reach the connection terminal portion 152 after flowing into the water purification cartridge PCl from this inlet port and then passing through the permeable portion.

[0148] In the above-described embodiment, the water purification function portion is the permeable portion, and purified water is produced by causing raw water to pass through the permeable portion. As described above, the permeable portion is merely an example of the water purification function portion. Alternatively, purified water may be produced without causing raw water to pass through the permeable portion. For example, the water purification cartridge may include a metal material that releases metal ions having a sterilization effect, an antibacterial effect, a bactericidal effect, or a bacterial growth inhibiting effect, and purified water can also be produced using such a metal material.

[0149] The term "purified water" as used in the present disclosure represents a concept that

encompasses the following produced water (1) and (2). (1) Produced water obtained by removing a substance, ions, or the like contained in water using an adsorbent, a filter membrane, or the like.

(2) Produced water having beneficial properties imparted by adding metal ions, electrons, a

substance, or the like to water, such as produced water obtained by adding metal ions to water to impart a sterilization effect or the like.

[0150] Specifically, the term "purified water" as used in the present disclosure represents a concept

that encompasses water produced using the following function A and/or function B. In other words, the term "water purification function portion" as used in the present disclosure represents a concept that encompasses a function portion having the following function A and/or function B.

[0151] [Function A] The function A is at least one function selected from the group consisting of the following

functions Al, A2, A3, A4, and A5. Al: A function of removing a substance contained in water through adsorption using an adsorbent such as activated carbon. A2: A function of filtering out a substance

contained in water using a filter material. The function A2 is preferably a function of filtering

out a substance contained in water using, as the filter material, a filter membrane such as a reverse osmosis membrane, an ultrafiltration membrane, a microfiltration membrane, a nano-filtration membrane, or a porous hollow fiber membrane.

A3: A function of removing metal ions or the like contained in water by trapping them using an ion exchange resin or the like. A4: A function of causing metal ions having a sterilization effect, an antibacterial effect, a

bactericidal effect, and/or a bacterial growth inhibiting effect to be released from a metal

material. A5: A function of generating active oxygen by causing metal ions to be released from a metal material and allowing oxygen in water to gain electrons generated as a result of the release of

the metal ions.

[0152] Examples of the substance in water to be removed for purification include chlorine, volatile organic compounds, agricultural chemicals, musty odor substances, and heavy metals. It is preferable to remove one or more selected from the group consisting of chlorine, volatile organic compounds, agricultural chemicals, musty odor substances, and heavy metals.

[0153] The term "chlorine" as used in the present disclosure represents a concept that encompasses residual chlorine contained in tap water. The residual chlorine includes free residual chlorine and combined residual chlorine. Examples of the

free residual chlorine include hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ions. Examples of the combined

residual chlorine include monochloramine, dichloramine, and trichloramine. Such residual chlorine can be generated when chlorine gas is dissolved in water in order to disinfect the water.

[0154] Examples of the volatile organic compounds

include chloroform, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane, bromoform, tetrachloroethylene, trichloroethylene, 1,1,1 trichloroethane, and total trihalomethane. It is preferable to remove one or more selected from the

group consisting of chloroform, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane,

bromoform, tetrachloroethylene, trichloroethylene, 1,1,1-trichloroethane, and total trihalomethane.

[0155] Examples of the agricultural chemicals include 2-chloro-4,6-bis(ethylamino)-1,3,5-triazine. It is preferable to remove 2-chloro-4,6

bis(ethylamino)-1,3,5-triazine.

[0156] Examples of the musty odor substances include 2-methylisoborneol, geosmin, and phenols. It is preferable to remove one or more selected from the group consisting of 2-methylisoborneol, geosmin, and phenols.

[0157] Examples of the heavy metals include lead, mercury, copper, arsenic, and cadmium. It is preferable to remove one or more selected from the group consisting of lead, mercury, copper, arsenic, and cadmium.

[0158] Examples of the metal ions in the function A4 include zinc ions and silver ions. Preferably, one or more types of ions selected from the group

consisting of zinc ions and silver ions are released.

[0159] Examples of bacteria targeted by the function A4 include colon bacilli and staphylococci, as well as miscellaneous bacteria defined as

(encompassed in) general bacteria. Preferably, one or more types of these bacteria are subjected to the

sterilization effect, antibacterial effect, bactericidal effect, or the bacterial growth inhibiting effect.

[0160] The active oxygen in the function A5 can degrade organic substances such as bacteria.

Examples of the bacteria include colon bacilli and staphylococci, as well as miscellaneous bacteria

defined as (encompassed in) general bacteria. Preferably, one or more types of these bacteria are degraded.

[0161] From the viewpoint of enabling effective removal of chlorine and harmful substances and

allowing reduction of the manufacturing cost of the water purification cartridge, the water purification cartridge having the function Al is preferable. The water purification cartridge may have, in addition to the function Al, one or more functions selected from the functions A2, A3, A4, and A5.

[0162] [Function B] The function B is a function of purifying water using a filter material and/or medium defined

in "(vi) water purifiers" in Appended Table 2 (Regarding Article 2) in Miscellaneous Manufactured Goods Quality Labeling Regulation (Revision Date: March 30, 2017 / Effective Date: April 1, 2017). In other words, the water purification cartridge

preferably includes a water purification function portion that purifies water using the filter

material and/or medium defined in "(vi) water purifiers" in Appended Table 2 (Regarding Article 2) in Miscellaneous Manufactured Goods Quality Labeling Regulation (Revision Date: March 30, 2017

/ Effective Date: April 1, 2017).

[0163] The water purification function portion having the function A and/or function B may constitute a part of the purified water flow path, or alternatively, may be disposed in the purified water flow path, or further alternatively, may be

disposed in a pool portion that communicates with the purified water flow path.

[0164] The water purification cartridge may be of an integrated type in which all the members constituting the water purification cartridge are integrated so as not to be disassembled, or may be of a composite type in which the water purification

cartridge is constituted by a plurality of members that can be disassembled.

[0165] The composite type water purification cartridge may include, for example, an adapter member and a cartridge body. The adapter member may be either connectable or unconnectable to the cartridge body. In other words, the adapter member may be attachable to the cartridge body, or may be unattachable to the cartridge body. When the adapter member is attachable to the cartridge body, the adapter member may be attached to the cartridge body either detachably or undetachably. There is no limitation on the function of the adapter member. For example, the adapter member may have a function that affects the operability of the operating portion (push button) 114.

[0166] The configuration of the adapter member and the cartridge body is not limited. Examples of the configuration may include the following configurations B1 to B4. B1: A configuration in which the water purification

cartridge with the adapter member being attached to the cartridge body is attached to the cartridge catching portion. B2: A configuration in which the adapter member is attached to the cartridge catching portion first,

and then, the cartridge body is attached to the adapter member.

B3: A configuration in which the adapter member is attached to a part of the cartridge catching portion, and then, the cartridge body is attached to another portion of the cartridge catching portion. B4: A configuration in which the adapter member is

attached to a part of the cartridge catching portion first, and then, the cartridge body is attached to the adapter member and another portion of the cartridge catching portion.

[0167] In the above-described configurations B1 to B4, the adapter member may be detachably attached to the cartridge catching portion, or alternatively, may be undetachably attached to the cartridge catching portion. Preferably, the adapter member is detachably attached to the cartridge catching portion.

[0168] Regarding the above-described embodiment, the following clauses are disclosed.

[Clause 1] A water purification cartridge to be

disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water

purification function, the water purification cartridge including: a connection terminal portion to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion,

wherein the connection terminal portion includes a purified water outlet hole, a first annular packing located on a downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, and a second annular packing located on an upstream side

with respect to the purified water outlet hole, and an outer diameter G1 of the first annular

packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing.

[Clause 2] The water purification cartridge according to clause 1, wherein the purified water outlet hole

includes an outlet opening edge, the outlet opening edge includes a radially inner edge and a radially outer edge, and in a cross section taken along a center line of the water purification cartridge, when a straight line that passes through the radially inner edge and the radially outer edge is defined as Li and a straight line that is perpendicular to the straight line Li is defined as L2, the straight line

L2 is inclined so as to extend radially outward as going further to the downstream side.

[Clause 3] The water purification cartridge according to clause 1 or 2, wherein the purified water outlet hole

penetrates in an axial direction.

[Clause 4] The water purification cartridge according

to any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein a cross-sectional diameter D1 of the first annular packing is smaller than a cross sectional diameter D2 of the second annular packing.

[Clause 5] The water purification cartridge according

to clause 4, wherein the connection terminal portion includes a first groove on which the first annular packing is disposed and a second groove on which the second annular packing is disposed,

a width Mi of the first groove is larger than the cross-sectional diameter Di,

a width M2 of the second groove is larger than the cross-sectional diameter D2, and a difference (Mi-Di) is greater than a difference (M2-D2).

[Clause 6] The water purification cartridge according

to any one of clauses 1 to 5, wherein the water purification cartridge includes a purification material that is capable of removing chlorine, the connection terminal portion includes a front end portion that is impermeable to water and on which the first annular packing is disposed, the front end portion is made of a resin, an inner surface of the front end portion faces a purified water flow path, an outer surface of the front end portion faces a raw water flow path, the outer surface of the front end portion includes a recess, and an empty space formed by the recess is present radially inward of the first annular packing.

[Clause 7] A water discharge head having a water purification function, the water discharge head including: a discharge port;

a raw water flow path; a purified water flow path; a switching mechanism that switches between the raw water flow path and the purified water flow path;

a water purification cartridge that produces purified water in the purified water flow

path; and a water purification cartridge catching portion in which the water purification cartridge is disposed, wherein the water purification cartridge

catching portion includes a connection receiving portion that is connected to the water purification cartridge, the water purification cartridge includes a connection terminal portion that is connected to the connection receiving portion, the connection terminal portion includes a purified water outlet hole, a first annular packing located on a downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, and a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, and an outer diameter of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter of the second annular packing.

[Clause 8] A faucet device including: the water discharge head having a water purification function according to clause 7.

[0169] In the present disclosure, inventions other than those included in claims (including independent claims) are also described. The forms, members, configurations, and combinations thereof described in the claims and the embodiment of the present disclosure should be recognized as inventions based on the functions and effects of each of them.

[0170] The forms, members, configurations, and the like shown in the above-described embodiment are each independently applicable to all inventions described in the present disclosure, including those set forth in the claims of the present disclosure, even if not every form, member, or configuration described in the embodiment is used.

[0171] Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

[0172] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

[0173] 102 Faucet device 104 Body portion 106 Lever handle 108 Water discharge head 110 Water inlet portion 114 Operating portion 134 Water purification cartridge catching portion 138 Connection receiving portion 152 Connection terminal portion 154 Rear forming portion 160 First cylindrical portion 162 Second cylindrical portion 164 Third cylindrical portion 172 First groove 174 Front end surface 176 Recess 178 Side surface of recess 180 Bottom surface of recess

190 Partition wall 210 Second groove 240 Purified water outlet hole 242 Outlet opening edge 254 First receiving cylindrical portion 256 Second receiving cylindrical portion PCl Water purification cartridge s1 First annular packing s2 Second annular packing WJ Purified water flow path WJ1 Purified water passage WG Raw water flow path WG1 Raw water passage

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed on a downstream side and at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes: a first cylindrical portion; a second cylindrical portion located on an upstream side of the first cylindrical portion; a purified water outlet hole located between the first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion; a first annular packing located on the downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole and disposed on the first cylindrical portion; and a second annular packing located on the upstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole and disposed on the second cylindrical portion; and an outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing.

2. The water purification cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the purified water outlet hole includes an outlet opening edge, the outlet opening edge includes a radially inner edge and a radially outer edge, and in a cross section taken along a center line of the water purification cartridge, when a straight line that passes through the radially inner edge and the radially outer edge is defined as L1 and a straight line that is perpendicular to the straight line L1 is defined as L2, the straight line L2 is inclined so as to extend radially outward as going further to the downstream side.

3. The water purification cartridge according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the purified water outlet hole penetrates in an axial direction of the water purification cartridge.

4. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a cross-sectional diameter D1 of the first annular packing is smaller than a cross sectional diameter D2 of the second annular packing.

5. The water purification cartridge according to claim 4, wherein the connection terminal portion includes a first groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the first cylindrical portion and on which the first annular packing is disposed; and a second groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the second cylindrical portion and on which the second annular packing is disposed, a width Ml of the first groove is larger than the cross-sectional diameter Dl, a width M2 of the second groove is larger than the cross-sectional diameter D2, and a difference (M1-D1) is greater than a difference (M2-D2).

6. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the water purification cartridge includes a purification material that is capable of removing chlorine, the connection terminal portion includes, as the first cylindrical portion, a front end portion that is impermeable to water and on which the first annular packing is disposed, the front end portion is made of a resin, an inner surface of the front end portion faces the purified water flow path, an outer surface of the front end portion faces a raw water flow path, the outer surface of the front end portion includes a recess, and an empty space formed by the recess is present radially inward of the first annular packing.

7. A water discharge head having a water purification function, the water discharge head comprising: a discharge port; a raw water flow path; a purified water flow path; a switching mechanism that switches between the raw water flow path and the purified water flow path; a water purification cartridge that produces purified water in the purified water flow path; and a water purification cartridge catching portion in which the water purification cartridge is disposed, wherein the water purification cartridge catching portion includes a connection receiving portion that is connected to the water purification cartridge, the water purification cartridge includes: an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed on a downstream side and at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is connected to the connection receiving portion, the connection terminal portion includes: a first cylindrical portion; a second cylindrical portion that is located on an upstream side of the first cylindrical portion; a purified water outlet hole that is located between the first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion; a first annular packing located on the downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole and disposed on the first cylindrical portion; and a second annular packing located on the upstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole and disposed on the second cylindrical portion, and an outer diameter of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter of the second annular packing.

8. A faucet device comprising: the water discharge head having a water purification function according to claim 7.

9. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed on a downstream side and at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes: a purified water outlet hole; a first annular packing located on the downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole; a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole; a first groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the first annular packing is disposed; and a second groove that is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the second annular packing is disposed, and an outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing.

10. The water purification cartridge according to claim 9, wherein the purified water outlet hole includes an outlet opening edge, the outlet opening edge includes a radially inner edge and a radially outer edge, and in a cross section taken along a center line of the water purification cartridge, when a straight line that passes through the radially inner edge and the radially outer edge is defined as L1 and a straight line that is perpendicular to the straight line L1 is defined as L2, the straight line L2 is inclined so as to extend radially outward as going further to the downstream side.

11. The water purification cartridge according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the purified water outlet hole penetrates in an axial direction of the water purification cartridge.

12. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein a cross-sectional diameter Dl of the first annular packing is smaller than a cross sectional diameter D2 of the second annular packing.

13. The water purification cartridge according to claim 12, wherein a width Ml of the first groove is larger than the cross-sectional diameter Dl, a width M2 of the second groove is larger than the cross-sectional diameter D2, and a difference (M1-D1) is greater than a difference (M2-D2).

14. The water purification cartridge according to claim 13, wherein when the difference (M1-D1) is defined as W1, and the difference (M2-D2) is defined as W2, then a difference (W1-W2) is greater than or equal to 0.1 mm and less than or equal to 1.5 mm.

15. The water purification cartridge according to claim 13 or 14, wherein when the difference (M1-D1) is defined as W1, and the difference (M2-D2) is defined as W2, then a ratio (W2/Wl) is greater than or equal to 0.2 and less than or equal to 0.9.

16. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 9 to 15, wherein a width Ml of the first groove is larger than a width M2 of the second groove.

17. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 9 to 16, wherein a bottom surface of the first groove has a diameter that changes depending on its position in an axial direction, and the diameter of the bottom surface of the first groove on the downstream side is smaller than that on the upstream side.

18. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 9 to 17, wherein a bottom surface of the second groove has a diameter that does not change depending on its position in an axial direction.

19. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the water purification cartridge includes a purification material that is capable of removing chlorine, the connection terminal portion includes a front end portion that is impermeable to water and on which the first annular packing is disposed, the front end portion is made of a resin, an inner surface of the front end portion faces the purified water flow path, an outer surface of the front end portion faces a raw water flow path, the outer surface of the front end portion includes a recess, and an empty space formed by the recess is present radially inward of the first annular packing.

20. A water discharge head having a water purification function, the water discharge head comprising: a discharge port; a raw water flow path; a purified water flow path; a switching mechanism that switches between the raw water flow path and the purified water flow path; a water purification cartridge that produces purified water in the purified water flow path; and a water purification cartridge catching portion in which the water purification cartridge is disposed, wherein the water purification cartridge catching portion includes a connection receiving portion that is connected to the water purification cartridge, the water purification cartridge includes: an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed on a downstream side and at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes the purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is connected to the connection receiving portion, the connection terminal portion includes: a purified water outlet hole; a first annular packing located on the downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole; a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole; a first groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the first annular packing is disposed; and a second groove that is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the second annular packing is disposed, and an outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing.

21. A faucet device comprising: the water discharge head having a water purification function according to claim 20.

22. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes: a first annular packing; a second annular packing located on a rear side with respect to the first annular packing; a first groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the first annular packing is disposed; a second groove that is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the second annular packing is disposed; and a purified water outlet hole that communicates with the purified water flow path in a state where the water purification cartridge is attached to the water purification cartridge catching portion, the purified water flow path being formed between the first annular packing and the second annular packing so as to be sectioned off from a raw water flow path, and an outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing.

23. The water purification cartridge according to claim 22, wherein a cross-sectional diameter Dl of the first annular packing is smaller than a cross sectional diameter D2 of the second annular packing.

24. The water purification cartridge according to claim 23, wherein a difference (D2-D1) is greater than or equal to 0.1 mm and less than or equal to

1.0 mm.

25. The water purification cartridge according to claim 23 or 24, wherein a ratio (D2/D1) is greater than or equal to 1.05 and less than or equal to 2.0.

26. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein a width Ml of the first groove is larger than the cross-sectional diameter Dl, a width M2 of the second groove is larger than the cross-sectional diameter D2, and a difference (M1-D1) is greater than a difference (M2-D2).

27. The water purification cartridge according to claim 26, wherein when the difference (M1-D1) is defined as W1, and the difference (M2-D2) is defined as W2, then a difference (W1-W2) is greater than or equal to 0.1 mm and less than or equal to 1.5 mm.

28. The water purification cartridge according to claim 26, wherein when the difference (M1-D1) is defined as W1, and the difference (M2-D2) is defined as W2, then a ratio (W2/Wl) is greater than or equal to 0.2 and less than or equal to 0.9.

29. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 22 to 28, wherein a width Ml of the first groove is larger than a width M2 of the second groove.

30. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 22 to 29, wherein a bottom surface of the first groove has a diameter that changes depending on its position in an axial direction, and the diameter of the bottom surface of the first groove on a downstream side is smaller than that on a upstream side.

31. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 22 to 30, wherein the water purification cartridge further includes an adsorbent that adsorbs a substance contained in water.

32. The water purification cartridge according to claim 31, wherein the adsorbent is activated carbon.

33. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 22 to 32, wherein the water purification cartridge further includes a filter material that filters out a substance contained in water.

34. The water purification cartridge according to claim 33, wherein the filter material is a filter membrane, and the filter membrane is a reverse osmosis membrane, an ultrafiltration membrane, a microfiltration membrane, a nano-filtration membrane, or a porous hollow fiber membrane.

35. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 31 to 34, wherein the substance contained in water is one or more substances selected from the group consisting of chlorine, volatile organic compounds, agricultural chemicals, musty odor substances, and heavy metals.

36. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes: a first annular packing; a second annular packing located on a rear side with respect to the first annular packing; a first groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the first annular packing is disposed; a second groove that is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the second annular packing is disposed; and a purified water outlet hole that communicates with the purified water flow path in a state where the water purification cartridge is attached to the water purification cartridge catching portion, the purified water flow path being formed between the first annular packing and the second annular packing so as to be sectioned off from a raw water flow path, an outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing, and the intermediate portion includes a metal material that releases metal ions having a sterilization effect, an antibacterial effect, a bactericidal effect, or a bacterial growth inhibiting effect.

37. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes: a first annular packing; a second annular packing located on a rear side with respect to the first annular packing; a first groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the first annular packing is disposed; a second groove that is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the second annular packing is disposed; and a purified water outlet hole that communicates with the purified water flow path in a state where the water purification cartridge is attached to the water purification cartridge catching portion, the purified water flow path being formed between the first annular packing and the second annular packing so as to be sectioned off from a raw water flow path, an outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing, and the water purification cartridge is integrated as a whole.

38. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes: a first annular packing; a second annular packing located on a rear side with respect to the first annular packing; a first groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the first annular packing is disposed; a second groove that is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the second annular packing is disposed; and a purified water outlet hole that communicates with the purified water flow path in a state where the water purification cartridge is attached to the water purification cartridge catching portion, the purified water flow path being formed between the first annular packing and the second annular packing so as to be sectioned off from a raw water flow path, an outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing, and a plurality of members constituting the water purification cartridge are detachably attachable to each other.

39. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes: a first annular packing; a second annular packing located on a rear side with respect to the first annular packing; a first groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the first annular packing is disposed; a second groove that is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the second annular packing is disposed; and a purified water outlet hole that communicates with the purified water flow path in a state where the water purification cartridge is attached to the water purification cartridge catching portion, the purified water flow path being formed between the first annular packing and the second annular packing so as to be sectioned off from a raw water flow path, an outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing, and the intermediate portion includes an adsorbent or a filter membrane that removes a substance or ions contained in water.

40. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes: a first annular packing; a second annular packing located on a rear side with respect to the first annular packing; a first groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the first annular packing is disposed; a second groove that is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the second annular packing is disposed; and a purified water outlet hole that communicates with the purified water flow path in a state where the water purification cartridge is attached to the water purification cartridge catching portion, the purified water flow path being formed between the first annular packing and the second annular packing so as to be sectioned off from a raw water flow path, an outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing, and the intermediate portion includes a metal material that generates produced water produced by adding metal ions to water.

41. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed on a downstream side and at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes: a purified water outlet hole; a first annular packing located on the downstream side with respect to an outlet opening edge of the purified water outlet hole; a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the outlet opening edge of the purified water outlet hole; a first groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the first annular packing is disposed; and a second groove that is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the second annular packing is disposed, and an outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing.

42. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head, the water purification cartridge comprising: a metal material that releases metal ions having a sterilization effect, an antibacterial effect, a bactericidal effect, or a bacterial growth inhibiting effect to produce purified water; an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed on a downstream side and at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes: a purified water outlet hole; a first annular packing located on the downstream side with respect to an outlet opening edge of the purified water outlet hole; a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the outlet opening edge of the purified water outlet hole; a first groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the first annular packing is disposed; and a second groove that is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the second annular packing is disposed, and an outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing.

43. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head, the water purification cartridge comprising: a water purification function portion that allows a metal material to release metal ions having a sterilization effect, an antibacterial effect, a bactericidal effect, and/or a bacterial growth inhibiting effect; an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed on a downstream side and at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes: a purified water outlet hole; a first annular packing located on the downstream side with respect to an outlet opening edge of the purified water outlet hole; a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the outlet opening edge of the purified water outlet hole; a first groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the first annular packing is disposed; and a second groove that is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the second annular packing is disposed, and an outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing.

44. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head, the water purification cartridge comprising: a water purification function portion that generates active oxygen by causing metal ions to be released from a metal material and allowing oxygen contained in water to gain electrons generated as a result of the release of the metal ions an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed on a downstream side and at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes: a purified water outlet hole; a first annular packing located on the downstream side with respect to an outlet opening edge of the purified water outlet hole; a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the outlet opening edge of the purified water outlet hole; a first groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the first annular packing is disposed; and a second groove that is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the second annular packing is disposed, and an outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing.

45. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed on a downstream side and at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes: a purified water outlet hole; a first annular packing located on the downstream side with respect to an outlet opening edge of the purified water outlet hole; a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the outlet opening edge of the purified water outlet hole; a first groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the first annular packing is disposed; and a second groove that is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the second annular packing is disposed, an outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing, and purified water is produced by adding metal ions to water for imparting a sterilization effect.

46. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed on a downstream side and at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes: a purified water outlet hole; a first annular packing located on the downstream side with respect to an outlet opening edge of the purified water outlet hole; a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the outlet opening edge of the purified water outlet hole; a first groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the first annular packing is disposed; and a second groove that is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the connection terminal portion and on which the second annular packing is disposed, and the purified water outlet hole penetrates in an axial direction while allowing a straight line running in the axial direction from radially inward of the second annular packing to radially outward of the first annular packing to pass through the purified water outlet hole.

47. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 41 to 46, wherein the purified water outlet hole penetrates in an axial direction of the water purification cartridge.

48. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 41 to 47, wherein a cross-sectional diameter Dl of the first annular packing is smaller than a cross sectional diameter D2 of the second annular packing.

49. The water purification cartridge according to claim 48, wherein a width Ml of the first groove is larger than the cross-sectional diameter Dl, a width M2 of the second groove is larger than the cross-sectional diameter D2, and a difference (M1-D1) is greater than a difference (M2-D2).

50. The water purification cartridge according to claim 49, wherein when the difference (M1-D1) is defined as W1 and the difference (M2-D2) is defined as W2, a difference (Wl-W2) is greater than or equal to 0.1 mm and less than or equal to 1.5 mm.

51. The water purification cartridge according to claim 49 or 50, wherein when the difference (M1-D1) is defined as W1 and the difference (M2-D2) is defined as W2, a ratio (W2/W1) is greater than or equal to 0.2 and less than or equal to 0.9.

52. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 41 to 51, wherein a width Ml of the first groove is larger than a width M2 of the second groove.

53. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 41 to 52, wherein the purified water outlet hole has a front-rear penetration width of greater than or equal to 1.05 mm and less than or equal to 5 mm.

54. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 41 to 53, wherein a difference (D2-D1) between a cross-sectional diameter Dl of the first annular packing and a cross-sectional diameter D2 of the second annular packing is greater than or equal to 0.1 mm and less than or equal to 1.0 mm.

55. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 41 to 54, wherein a ratio (D2/Dl) of a cross-sectional diameter D2 of the second annular packing to a cross-sectional diameter Dl of the first annular packing is greater than or equal to 1.05 and less than or equal to 2.0.

56. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: a connection terminal portion to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes a purified water outlet hole, a first annular packing located on a downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, and a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, the connection terminal portion further includes a first groove on which the first annular packing is disposed and a second groove on which the second annular packing is disposed, a width Ml of the first groove is larger than a cross-sectional diameter Dl of the first annular packing, a width M2 of the second groove is larger than a cross-sectional diameter D2 of the second annular packing, and a difference (M1-D1) is greater than a difference (M2-D2).

57. The water purification cartridge according to claim 56, wherein the width Ml of the first groove is larger than the width M2 of the second groove.

58. The water purification cartridge according to claim 56 or 57, wherein a bottom surface of the first groove has a diameter that changes depending on its position in an axial direction, and the diameter of the bottom surface of the first groove on the downstream side is smaller than that on the upstream side.

59. The water purification cartridge according to claim 58, wherein a bottom surface of the second groove has a diameter that does not change depending on its position in the axial direction.

60. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 56 to 59, wherein when the difference (M1-D1) is defined as W1, and the difference (M2-D2) is defined as W2, then a difference (W1-W2) is greater than or equal to 0.1 mm and less than or equal to 1.5 mm.

61. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 56 to 60, wherein when the difference (M1-D1) is defined as W1, and the difference (M2-D2) is defined as W2, then a ratio (W2/W1) is greater than or equal to 0.2 and less than or equal to 0.9.

62. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: a connection terminal portion to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes a purified water outlet hole, a first annular packing located on a downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, and a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, the connection terminal portion further includes a front end portion that is impermeable to water and on which the first annular packing is disposed, and a recess is provided on an outer surface or an inner surface of the front end portion.

63. The water purification cartridge according to claim 62, wherein the recess is provided on the outer surface of the front end portion.

64. The water purification cartridge according to claim 62 or 63, wherein the connection terminal portion includes a first groove on which the first annular packing is disposed, and a shortest distance between a bottom surface of the first groove and the recess is greater than or equal to 0.5 mm and less than or equal to 3.0 mm.

65. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 62 to 64, wherein the recess has a side surface and a bottom surface, the side surface extends in an axial direction, and the bottom surface extends in a radial direction.

66. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: a connection terminal portion to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes a purified water outlet hole, a first annular packing located on a downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, and a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, the purified water outlet hole includes an outlet opening edge, the outlet opening edge includes a radially inner edge and a radially outer edge, in a cross section taken along a center line of the water purification cartridge, when a straight line that passes through the radially inner edge and the radially outer edge is defined as L1 and a straight line that is perpendicular to the straight line L1 is defined as L2, the straight line L2 is inclined so as to extend radially outward as going further to the downstream side.

67. The water purification cartridge according to claim 66, wherein an angle 0 formed between the center line of the water purification cartridge and the straight line L2 is greater than or equal to 30° and less than or equal to 80°.

68. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: a connection terminal portion to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes a purified water outlet hole, a first annular packing located on a downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, and a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, and the purified water outlet hole penetrates in an axial direction of the water purification cartridge.

69. The water purification cartridge according to claim 68, wherein the purified water outlet hole has a front-rear penetration width of greater than or equal to 1.05 mm and less than or equal to 5 mm.

70. The water purification cartridge according to claim 68 or 69, wherein the purified water outlet hole includes an outlet opening edge that has an axial direction width.

71. The water purification cartridge according to claim 70, wherein the outlet opening edge includes a radially inner edge and a radially outer edge, in a cross section taken along a center line of the water purification cartridge, when a straight line that passes through the radially inner edge and the radially outer edge is defined as L1 and a straight line that is perpendicular to the straight line L1 is defined as L2, the straight line L2 is inclined so as to extend radially outward as going further to the downstream side, and an angle 0 formed between the center line of the water purification cartridge and the straight line L2 is greater than or equal to 30° and less than or equal to 80°.

72. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: a connection terminal portion to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes a purified water outlet hole, a first annular packing located on a downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, and a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, and a cross-sectional diameter Dl of the first annular packing is smaller than a cross-sectional diameter D2 of the second annular packing.

73. The water purification cartridge according to claim 72, wherein a difference (D2-D1) is greater than or equal to 0.1 mm and less than or equal to 1.0 mm.

74. The water purification cartridge according to claim 72 or 73, wherein a ratio (D2/D1) is greater than or equal to 1.05 and less than or equal to 2.0.

75. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: a connection terminal portion to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion; and a purification material that is capable of removing chlorine, wherein the connection terminal portion includes a purified water outlet hole, a first annular packing located on a downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, and a front end portion that is impermeable to water and on which the first annular packing is disposed, the front end portion is made of a resin, an inner surface of the front end portion faces a purified water flow path, an outer surface of the front end portion faces a raw water flow path, the outer surface of the front end portion includes a recess, and an empty space formed by the recess is present radially inward of the first annular packing.

76. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 56 to 75, wherein the connection terminal portion includes coupling extension portions, the purified water outlet hole is formed between the coupling extension portions adjacent to each other in a circumferential direction, and each of the coupling extension portions extends radially inward as going further to the downstream side.

77. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 56 to 76, wherein the connection terminal portion includes coupling extension portions, the purified water outlet hole is formed between the coupling extension portions adjacent to each other in a circumferential direction, each of the coupling extension portions includes an extension downstream surface that is a surface of the coupling extension portion on the downstream side, the extension downstream surface extends radially inward as going further to the downstream side.

78. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 56 to 77, wherein a water inlet port is provided on an outer circumferential surface or at a rear end of the water purification cartridge.

79. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 56 to 78, wherein a water inlet port is provided at a rear end of the water purification cartridge.

80. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: a connection terminal portion to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes a purified water outlet hole, a first annular packing located on a downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, and a second annular packing located on an upstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole, the purified water outlet hole includes an outlet opening edge, and the outlet opening edge has a radial direction opening width and an axial-direction opening width.

81. The water purification cartridge according to claim 80, wherein the outlet opening edge includes a radially inner edge and a radially outer edge, in a cross section taken along a center line of the water purification cartridge, when a straight line that passes through the radially inner edge and the radially outer edge is defined as L1 and a straight line that is perpendicular to the straight line L1 is defined as L2, the straight line L2 is inclined so as to extend radially outward as going further to the downstream side, and an angle 0 formed between the center line of the water purification cartridge and the straight line L2 is greater than or equal to 30° and less than or equal to 80°.

82. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 57 to 65, 67, 69 to 71, 73, 74 and 76 to 81, wherein an outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing.

83. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 56 to 82, wherein the water purification cartridge includes: an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed on the downstream side and at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, and the connection terminal portion includes: a first cylindrical portion; a second cylindrical portion that is located on the upstream side of the first cylindrical portion; a purified water outlet hole that is located between the first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion; a first annular packing that is located on the downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole and disposed on the first cylindrical portion; and a second annular packing located on the upstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole and disposed on the second cylindrical portion.

84. A water purification cartridge to be disposed in a water purification cartridge catching portion of a water discharge head having a water purification function, the water purification cartridge comprising: an intermediate portion; a rear forming portion that is disposed at a rear end of the intermediate portion; and a connection terminal portion that is disposed on a downstream side and at a front end of the intermediate portion, that includes a purified water flow path inside the connection terminal portion, and that is to be connected to a connection receiving portion of the water purification cartridge catching portion, wherein the connection terminal portion includes: a first cylindrical portion; a second cylindrical portion that is located on an upstream side of the first cylindrical portion; a purified water outlet hole that is located between the first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion; a first annular packing that is located on the downstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole and disposed on the first cylindrical portion; and a second annular packing that is located on the upstream side with respect to the purified water outlet hole and disposed on the second cylindrical portion, the purified water outlet hole includes an outlet opening edge, the outlet opening edge includes a radially inner edge and a radially outer edge, and in a cross section taken along a center line of the water purification cartridge, when a straight line that passes through the radially inner edge and the radially outer edge is defined as L1 and a straight line that is perpendicular to the straight line L1 is defined as L2, the straight line L2 is inclined so as to extend radially outward as going further to the downstream side.

85. The water purification cartridge according to claim 84, wherein an angle 0 formed between the center line of the water purification cartridge and the straight line L2 is greater than or equal to 30° and less than or equal to 80°.

86. The water purification cartridge according to claim 84 or 85, wherein the connection terminal portion further includes: a first groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the first cylindrical portion and on which the first annular packing is disposed; and a second groove that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the second cylindrical portion and on which the second annular packing is disposed, a width Ml of the first groove is larger than a cross-sectional diameter Dl of the first annular packing, a width M2 of the second groove is larger than a cross-sectional diameter D2 of the second annular packing, and a difference (M1-D1) is greater than a difference (M2-D2).

87. The water purification cartridge according to claim 86, wherein the width Ml of the first groove is larger than the width M2 of the second groove.

88. The water purification cartridge according to claim 86 or 87, wherein a bottom surface of the first groove has a diameter that changes depending on its position in an axial direction, and the diameter of the bottom surface of the first groove on the downstream side is smaller than that on the upstream side.

89. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 86 to 88, wherein a bottom surface of the second groove has a diameter that does not change depending on its position in an axial direction.

90. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 86 to 89, wherein when the difference (M1-D1) is defined as W1, and the difference (M2-D2) is defined as W2, then a difference (W1-W2) is greater than or equal to 0.1 mm and less than or equal to 1.5 mm.

91. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 86 to 90, wherein when the difference (M1-D1) is defined as W1, and the difference (M2-D2) is defined as W2, then a ratio (W2/W1) is greater than or equal to 0.2 and less than or equal to 0.9.

92. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 84 to 91, wherein the first cylindrical portion includes a front end portion that is impermeable to water, and a recess is provided on an outer surface or an inner surface of the front end portion.

93. The water purification cartridge according to claim 92, wherein the recess is provided on the outer surface of the front end portion.

94. The water purification cartridge according to claim 92 or 93, wherein the first cylindrical portion includes a first groove on which the first annular packing is disposed, and a shortest distance between a bottom surface of the first groove and the recess is greater than or equal to 0.5 mm and less than or equal to 3.0 mm.

95. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 92 to 94, wherein the recess has a side surface and a bottom surface, the side surface extends in an axial direction, and the bottom surface extends in a radial direction.

96. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 92 to 95, wherein the water purification cartridge further includes a purification material that is capable of removing chlorine, the front end portion is made of a resin, the inner surface of the front end portion faces the purified water flow path, the outer surface of the front end portion faces a raw water flow path, the outer surface of the front end portion includes the recess, and an empty space formed by the recess is present radially inward of the first annular packing.

97. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 84 to 96, wherein the purified water outlet hole penetrates in an axial direction of the water purification cartridge.

98. The water purification cartridge according to claim 97, wherein the purified water outlet hole has a front-rear penetration width of greater than or equal to 1.05 mm and less than or equal to 5 mm.

99. The water purification cartridge according to claim 97 or 98, wherein the outlet opening edge of the purified water outlet hole has an axial-direction width.

100. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 84 to 99, wherein a cross-sectional diameter Dl of the first annular packing is smaller than a cross sectional diameter D2 of the second annular packing.

101. The water purification cartridge according to claim 100, wherein a difference (D2-D1) is greater than or equal to 0.1 mm and less than or equal to 1.0 mm.

102. The water purification cartridge according to claim 100 or 101, wherein a ratio (D2/D1) is greater than or equal to 1.05 and less than or equal to 2.0.

103. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 84 to 102, wherein the connection terminal portion includes coupling extension portions, the purified water outlet hole is formed between the coupling extension portions adjacent to each other in a circumferential direction, and each of the coupling extension portions extends radially inward as going further to the downstream side.

104. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 84 to 103, wherein the connection terminal portion includes coupling extension portions, the purified water outlet hole is formed between the coupling extension portions adjacent to each other in a circumferential direction, each coupling extension portion includes an extension downstream surface that is a surface of the coupling extension portion on the downstream side, and the extension downstream surface extends radially inward as going further to the downstream side.

105. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 84 to 104, wherein a water inlet port is provided on an outer circumferential surface or at a rear end of the water purification cartridge.

106. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 84 to 105, wherein a water inlet port is provided at a rear end of the water purification cartridge.

107. The water purification cartridge according to any one of claims 85, 87 to 92, 94, 95, 98, 99 and 101 to 106, wherein an outer diameter G1 of the first annular packing is smaller than an outer diameter G2 of the second annular packing.