JP2014066327A - Hot and cold water mixing faucet - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a hot and cold water mixing faucet which may provide a superior click feeling.SOLUTION: A hot and cold water mixing faucet comprises: a housing 42; a movable valve body; a lever 46 capable of anteroposterior turning around a lever shaft line Z1; a click engagement part 56 disposed on the lever; an engagement contacting part E1 disposed on an inner surface of the housing 42; and a turning body which supports the lever 46 so as to be capable of anteroposterior turning. By horizontal turning of the lever 46, a hot and cold water mixing ratio may be adjusted. By the anteroposterior turning of the lever 46, the ejection amount may be adjusted. In accordance with the anteroposterior turning of the lever 46, the click engagement part 56 is turned around the lever shaft line Z1, and by the turning of the click engagement part 56, click engagement is formed between the click engagement part 56 and the engagement contacting part E1. By the click engagement, anteroposterior click feeling may be produced.

Description

  The present invention relates to a hot and cold water mixing tap.

  There is known a faucet capable of adjusting the discharge amount and the mixing ratio of hot and cold water by a handle operation. With a single lever type hot and cold water mixing tap, it is possible to switch between hot water and water and adjust the mixing ratio by turning the lever handle left and right, and the discharge amount can be adjusted by turning the lever handle back and forth (up and down). It is.

  Some of the hot and cold water mixing plugs have a click mechanism. Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-019714 discloses a single lever faucet having a rotation guide that rotates integrally with a lever shaft in a temperature adjustment direction, and a drive unit for a movable valve body. In this faucet, a click mechanism is provided between the rotation guide and the drive unit.

JP 2004-019714 A

  The click feeling can provide various information to the user. By setting various click feelings, a more convenient hot and cold water mixing tap can be realized. Moreover, it is preferable that a click feeling is easily transmitted to the user. It has been found that there is room for improvement in the click mechanism described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-019714.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a hot and cold water mixing tap capable of realizing an excellent click feeling.

  A preferable aspect of the hot and cold water mixing plug according to the present invention is a mixing plug main body, a housing provided inside the mixing plug main body, a hot water valve hole, a water valve hole, and a discharge pipe provided in the housing. A fixed valve body having a valve hole, a movable valve body that is slidably disposed on the upper surface of the fixed valve body, and that has a flow path forming recess and a lever engagement hole, and pivots back and forth around the lever axis A lever, a click engagement portion provided on the lever, an engagement contact portion provided on the inner surface of the housing, and a rotating body that supports the lever so as to be able to rotate back and forth. Yes. The movable valve body pivots with respect to the fixed valve body by the left-right rotation of the lever, and the hot water mixing ratio can be adjusted by the pivoting of the movable valve body. The movable valve element moves with respect to the fixed valve element by rotating the lever back and forth, and the discharge amount can be adjusted by this movement. As the lever rotates back and forth, the click engagement portion rotates about the lever axis, and the rotation of the click engagement portion causes the click engagement portion and the engagement contact portion to move. Click engagement occurs between them. This click engagement can cause a back-and-forth click feeling.

  Preferably, the click engagement portion has an elastic deformation portion. Preferably, in the click engagement, elastic deformation and deformation recovery occur in the elastic deformation portion.

  Preferably, the elastic deformation includes bending deformation.

  Preferably, the click engagement portion is a separate member from the lever.

  Preferably, the click engagement portion is disposed on the front surface and / or the rear surface of the lever.

  Preferably, the click engagement portion has a retracting mechanism. Preferably, in the click engagement, the protrusion / retraction mechanism is protruded and retracted.

  An excellent click feeling can be realized.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a hot and cold water mixing tap according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a front view showing a part of the hot and cold water mixing tap of FIG. FIG. 3 is a side view showing a part of the hot and cold water mixing tap of FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F4-F4 of FIG. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the lever assembly. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly in a plane perpendicular to the lever shaft. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly, and is a vertical cross-sectional view along the center line of the lever shaft. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the lever assembly. FIGS. 9A to 9H show the shaft holder. 9 (a) is a plan view, FIG. 9 (b) is an inner front view, FIG. 9 (c) is a side view, FIG. 9 (d) is an outer front view, and FIG. ) Is a bottom view, FIG. 9 (f) is a cross-sectional view taken along line ff in FIG. 9 (d), and FIG. 9 (g) is taken along line gg in FIG. 9 (d). It is sectional drawing and FIG.9 (h) is a perspective view. FIG. 10A is a plan view of the rotating body. 10 (b) and 10 (c) are side views of the rotating body. FIG. 10D is a cross-sectional view taken along the line dd in FIG. FIG. 10E is a bottom view of the rotating body. FIG. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the click engagement portion. FIG. 12 is a plan view of the housing. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the housing. 14A is a perspective view of the click engagement portion, FIG. 14B is a side view of the click engagement portion, and FIG. 14C is a cross-sectional view of the click engagement portion. . FIG. 15 is a plan view of the upper member. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly at a position including the lever axis Z1. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 16 and shows a state in which the right-and-left click sphere and the convex portion are engaged. FIG. 18 is the same cross-sectional view as FIG. 16 and shows a state immediately after the engagement between the right-and-left click sphere and the convex portion is released. FIG. 19 is the same cross-sectional view as FIG. 16 and shows a state where the lever is rotated left and right to the left limit. FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the left-right rotation of the lever and the use of water discharge. FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the left-right rotation of the lever and the use of water discharge. FIG. 21 shows an embodiment different from FIG. 22 (a) is a plan view of the fixed valve body, FIG. 22 (b) is a bottom view of the fixed valve body, and FIG. 22 (c) is taken along the line cc of FIG. 22 (a). 22 (d) is a sectional view taken along the line dd in FIG. 22 (a), and FIG. 22 (e) is taken along the line ee in FIG. 22 (a). 22 (f) is a cross-sectional view taken along line ff in FIG. 22 (a), and FIG. 22 (g) is taken along line gg in FIG. 22 (a). FIG. 23 (a) is a plan view of the lower member 88, FIG. 23 (b) is a bottom view of the lower member 88, and FIG. 23 (c) is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 23 (b). FIG. 23D is a cross-sectional view taken along the line dd in FIG. 23B. FIGS. 24A to 24F are views showing the overlapping state of the upper surface opening line of the fixed valve body and the lower surface opening line of the movable valve body. In FIG. 24A, the lever left-right position is at the left limit position and the lever front-rear position is at the water stop position. In FIG. 24B, the lever left-right position is at the left limit position and the lever front-rear position is at the maximum discharge position. In FIG. 24C, the lever left-right position is at the center circumferential position, and the lever front-rear position is at the water stop position. In FIG. 24D, the lever left-right position is at the center circumferential position and the lever front-rear position is at the maximum discharge position. In FIG. 24E, the lever left-right position is at the right limit position and the lever front-rear position is at the water stop position. In FIG. 24F, the lever left-right position is at the right limit position and the lever front-rear position is at the maximum discharge position. FIGS. 25A to 25F are the same as FIGS. 24A to 24F. FIGS. 26A to 26D are plan views showing modifications of the lower surface opening line of the movable valve body (lower member). FIG. 27A is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly along the upper surface of the upper member. In FIG. 27A, the lever front-rear position is at the maximum discharge position. FIG. 27B is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly along the upper surface of the upper member. In FIG.27 (b), the lever front-back position exists in a water stop position. FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly according to the second embodiment. FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly according to the third embodiment. FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 33A and FIG. 33B are cross-sectional views showing modifications of the engagement contact portion.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail based on preferred embodiments with appropriate reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a hot and cold water mixing tap 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a front view of the upper part of the hot and cold water mixing tap 10. FIG. 3 is a side view of the upper part of the hot and cold water mixing tap 10.

  The hot and cold water mixing tap 10 includes a main body 12, a handle 14, a discharge part 16, a hot water introduction pipe 18, a water introduction pipe 20 and a discharge pipe 22. A part of the main body 12 is covered with an outer cover 13. The ejection unit 16 has a head 24. The head 24 can switch between shower discharge and normal discharge. The hot / cold mixing tap 10 is used, for example, in a kitchen, a wash basin or the like.

  The discharge amount is adjusted by the vertical movement of the handle 14 (see arrow M in FIG. 3). In the present embodiment, the discharge amount increases as the handle 14 is moved upward. Conversely, the discharge amount may increase as the handle 14 is moved downward. Moreover, the mixing ratio of hot water and water changes by turning the handle 14. The water discharge temperature can be adjusted by turning the handle 14.

  4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F4-F4 of FIG. The hot and cold water mixing tap 10 has a lever assembly 40 therein. The lever assembly 40 is disposed inside the outer cover 13. The handle 14 is fixed to the lever 46 by a screw 30.

  In FIG. 4, the description of the discharge unit 16 is omitted.

  FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the lever assembly 40. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly 40 along a cross section perpendicular to the lever axis Z1. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly 40 along the lever axis Z1. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the lever assembly 40. The lever assembly 40 can be handled alone. In the hot and cold water mixing tap 10, the lever assembly 40 is replaceable.

  As shown in FIG. 8 and the like, the lever assembly 40 includes a housing 42, a rotating body 44, a lever 46, a lever shaft 48, a left and right click elastic member 50, a left and right click sphere 52, a shaft holding body 54, and a click engaging portion. 56, a movable valve body 60, a fixed valve body 62, a packing 64, a packing 65, an O-ring 66, and a base body 68. The spherical body 52 is an example of a contact member for left and right clicks. The left-right click contact member is not limited to a sphere. From the viewpoint of smooth lever operation and a feeling of click feeling, the right and left click contact member is preferably a sphere.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the outer cover 13 is fixed to the main body 12. The outer cover 13 is made of metal. The outer cover 13 covers the housing 42. The outer cover 13 prevents the housing 42 from being deformed. Due to the deformation of the housing 42, the position of the engagement contact portion E1 (described later) can vary. By suppressing the deformation of the housing 42, the accuracy and durability of the front-rear click mechanism are improved.

  The center line of the lever shaft 48 is the lever axis Z1. The back-and-forth rotation of the lever 46 is rotation about the lever axis Z1.

  The elastic member 50 and the sphere 52 constitute a left and right click exit / retreat mechanism.

  The base body 68 has a hot water inlet 70, a water inlet 72 and a discharge outlet 74. Under the base body 68, openings corresponding to the hot water inlet 70, the water inlet 72, and the discharge port 74 are provided, and the hot water inlet pipe 18 and the water inlet pipe 20 are respectively provided in these openings. And the discharge pipe 22 is connected.

  The fixed valve body 62 is fixed to the upper side of the base body 68. The base body 68 is provided with an engaging convex portion 76 for fixing the fixed valve body 62 and an engaging convex portion 77 for fixing the housing 42. The fixed valve body 62 is provided with an engagement recess 78 that engages with the engagement protrusion 76.

  The fixed valve body 62 includes a hot water valve hole 80, a water valve hole 82, and a mixed water valve hole 84. The hot water valve hole 80 is connected to the hot water inlet 70 of the base body 68. A watertight state of this connection is maintained by the packing 64. The water valve hole 82 is connected to the water inlet 72 of the base body 68. A watertight state of this connection is maintained by the packing 64. The mixed water valve hole 84 is connected to the discharge port 74 of the base body 68. The watertight state of this connection is maintained by the packing 65.

  The movable valve body 60 includes an upper member 86 and a lower member 88. The upper member 86 is fixed to the lower member 88. This fixing is achieved by the engagement between the convex portion 90 and the concave portion 92. In the present embodiment, the upper member 86 and the lower member 88 are separate members. By using separate members, the optimum material and manufacturing method can be selected for each of the upper member 86 and the lower member 88. The movable valve body 60 may be integrally formed as a whole.

  Although not shown in FIG. 8, a flow path forming recess 94 is provided on the lower surface of the lower member 88 (see FIGS. 6 and 7). A recess 96 is provided on the upper surface of the lower member 88 to avoid interference with the lower end 95 of the lever 46 (see FIG. 8).

  A smooth surface PL1 is provided on the upper surface of the fixed valve body 62 (see FIG. 8). The portion where the holes 82, 84 and 80 are not present is the smooth surface PL1. On the other hand, a smooth surface PL2 is provided on the lower surface of the lower member 88 (movable valve body 60). A smooth surface PL2 is provided in a portion where the flow path forming recess 94 is not formed. A watertight state is ensured by surface contact between the smooth surface PL1 and the smooth surface PL2.

  In FIGS. 4 and 6, the lever shaft 48 and the elastic member 50 are not shown.

  A lever engagement hole 98 that engages with the lower end 95 of the lever 46 is provided on the upper surface of the upper member 86. The lower end 95 of the lever 46 is inserted into the lever engaging hole 98. In conjunction with the movement of the lever 46, the movable valve body 60 slides on the fixed valve body 62.

  The engagement between the lever 46 and the lever engagement hole 98 may be direct or indirect. For example, another member may be interposed between the lever 46 and the lever engagement hole 98.

  On the upper surface of the upper member 86, an engagement convex portion 99 that can be engaged with the rear surface of the rotating body 44 is provided.

  The lever 46 has a shaft hole 100. A lever shaft 48 is inserted into the shaft hole 100. The lever shaft 48 is pipe-shaped and has a hollow portion. A left-right click elastic member 50 is inserted into the lever shaft 48. The elastic member 50 is a coil spring. The longitudinal length of the lever shaft 48 and the longitudinal length L1 of the elastic member 50 are substantially the same. A left-right click sphere 52 is disposed at one end of the lever shaft 48. A spherical body 52 is disposed in the opening of the hollow portion of the lever shaft 48. The spherical body 52 is located at one end of the elastic member 50.

  The rotating body 44 has a base portion 102 and an upper portion 104 (see FIG. 8). The upper part 104 has a lever insertion hole 106 and a shaft hole 108. The base 102 is slidably attached to the movable valve body 60 (the upper member 86 thereof).

  The upper portion 104 has an insertion portion 112 for slidingly inserting the shaft holding body 54 and a slide groove 113. The insertion portion 112 is provided on the side surface of the upper portion 104.

  When the lever 46 is inserted into the lever insertion hole 106, the shaft hole 100 of the lever 46 and the shaft hole 108 of the rotating body 44 are arranged coaxially. The lever shaft 48 is inserted into the shaft hole 100 and the shaft hole 108. Further, an elastic member 50 is inserted into the lever shaft. By inserting the lever shaft 48, the lever 46 is fixed to the rotating body 44 in a rotatable state. The dimension of the lever insertion hole 106 is set so as to allow the lever 46 to rotate (back and forth). In the present application, the rotation of the lever 46 with the lever axis Z1 (lever shaft 48) as the rotation axis is also referred to as “front-rear rotation”.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the housing 42 includes a small diameter cylindrical portion 120, a large diameter cylindrical portion 122, and a connecting portion 124. The connecting portion 124 extends in the radial direction of the housing 42. The small diameter cylindrical portion 120 has an upper opening 126. The large diameter cylindrical portion 122 has a lower opening 128.

  The large diameter cylindrical portion 122 has an engagement hole 130. The engagement hole 130 is engaged with the engagement convex portion 77 of the base body 68. By this engagement, the housing 42 is fixed to the base body 68.

  The outer diameter of the circumferential surface portion of the upper portion 104 of the rotating body 44 is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the small diameter cylindrical portion 120. The upper portion 104 of the rotating body 44 is held by the small diameter cylindrical portion 120 in a rotatable state. In this rotation, the outer peripheral surface 105 of the upper part 104 and the inner peripheral surface 121 of the small diameter cylindrical part 120 slide. When the shaft holder 54 is fitted into the insertion portion 112, the outer surface of the shaft holder 54 forms a circumferential surface that is substantially the same as the circumferential surface portion of the upper portion 104. Therefore, the shaft holder 54 does not hinder the rotation of the rotating body 44.

  The large-diameter cylindrical portion 122 accommodates the base portion 102 of the rotating body 44, the movable valve body 60 and the fixed valve body 62.

  FIGS. 9A to 9H show the shaft holder 54. FIG. 9A is a top view. FIG. 9B is a plan view seen from the inside. FIG. 9C is a side view. FIG. 9D is a plan view seen from the outside. FIG. 9E is a bottom view. FIG. 9F is a cross-sectional view taken along the line ff of FIG. FIG. 9G is a cross-sectional view taken along the line gg in FIG. FIG. 9H is a perspective view.

  The shaft holder 54 includes a lever shaft holder 134, a sphere holder 136, a rail 138, a sphere protruding opening 140, and a notch 142. The shaft holding body 54 is attached to the insertion portion 112 of the rotating body 44 by inserting the rail 138 into the slide groove 113. A state where the shaft holder 54 is attached to the insertion portion 112 is also referred to as an attached state. In this attached state, the lever shaft holding portion 134 holds one end portion of the lever shaft 48. The other end of the lever shaft 48 is held while being inserted into a recess 107 (see FIG. 7) provided on the inner surface of the rotating body 44 (upper part 104). In this attached state, the sphere holder 136 holds the sphere 52. The spherical body 52 is always urged by the elastic member 50 regardless of the engagement with the convex portion 170 (described later). The spherical body 52 is pressed outward by the elastic member 50. The sphere 52 is pressed against the sphere holder 136 by the elastic member 50. As shown in FIGS. 9F and 9G, a part of the sphere 52 protrudes from the opening 140. This protrusion makes it possible to develop a left-right click feeling. The diameter of the opening 140 is smaller than that of the sphere 52. In addition, the diameter of the opening 140 is set in consideration of the protruding amount of the sphere 52 that allows the right and left click feeling to be expressed.

The shaft holder 54 may not be used. A portion corresponding to the shaft holding body 54 may be a part of the rotating body 44. Two shaft holders 54 may be provided. For example, both end portions of the lever shaft 48 may be held by the shaft holder 54. In the present embodiment, the number of parts is suppressed by using one shaft holder 54. Further, the provision of the shaft holding body 54 facilitates the assembly of the lever 46 to the rotating body 44. This assembly includes the following steps.
(Step a): The lever shaft 48 in which the elastic member 50 is inserted is inserted into the shaft hole 100 and the shaft hole 108. Alternatively, the lever shaft 48 is inserted into the shaft hole 100 and the shaft hole 108, and the elastic member 50 is inserted into the lever shaft 48.
(Step b): After the step a, the other end of the lever shaft 48 (elastic member 50) is inserted into the recess 107.
(Step c): After the step b, the sphere 52 is disposed at one end of the elastic member 50, and the shaft holder 54 is inserted into the insertion portion 112 in this state.

  Through the step c, one end portion of the lever shaft 48 is held by the lever shaft holding portion 134. In the arrangement of the spheres 52 in the step c, the spheres 52 are temporarily fixed to one end of the elastic member 50 using, for example, grease.

  In this assembly, the sphere 52 can be disposed directly at one end of the elastic member 50. By using the shaft holder 54, the ease of assembly is achieved.

  As described above, the shaft holder 54 has the notch 142. Due to the notches 142, the drop of the sphere 52 in the step c is suppressed. That is, the arrangement of the sphere 52 at one end of the elastic member 50 is easily maintained in the step c. Therefore, the ease of assembly is further improved.

  FIG. 10A is a plan view of the rotating body 44. FIG. 10B is a side view of the rotating body 44. FIG. 10C is a side view of the rotating body 44. The viewpoint is 90 degrees different between FIG. 10B and FIG. FIG. 10D is a cross-sectional view taken along the line dd in FIG. FIG. 10E is a bottom view of the rotating body 44.

  As described above, the rotating body 44 has the recess 107 and the shaft hole 108. The recess 107 and the shaft hole 108 are coaxial. The central axis of the recess 107 and the shaft hole 108 is the lever axis Z1. The recess 107 and the shaft hole 108 hold the lever shaft 48.

  The rotating body 44 has a click opening 115 for inserting the click engagement portion 56 (see FIG. 10D and FIG. 8). The size of the click opening 115 is set so as not to hinder the rotation of the click engagement portion 56.

  FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly 40. FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the click engagement portion 56. The click engaging portion 56 is disposed on the rear surface 47 (see FIG. 8) of the lever 46. The click engaging portion 56 protrudes to the rear side of the lever 46. The rear surface 47 is provided with a recess 49 for fitting the click engagement portion 56. The recess 49 has a slide groove 51 (see FIG. 11). A click engagement portion 56 is slid into the slide groove 51. As will be described later, the click engagement portion 56 may be disposed on the front surface of the lever 46. The click engagement part 56 may protrude to the front side of the lever 46.

  In the present embodiment, the click engagement portion 56 is a separate member from the lever 46. Since the click engaging portion 56 is formed independently, even if it has a complicated shape, it can be manufactured relatively easily. The click engaging portion 56 is detachably attached to the lever 46. Therefore, it is possible to generate a back-and-forth click feeling by attaching the click engagement portion 56, and it is possible to eliminate the back-and-forth click feeling by removing the click engagement portion 56.

  On the other hand, the click engagement portion 56 can be integrally formed with the lever 46. In this case, the number of parts is reduced and assembly work can be omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 11, an engagement contact portion E <b> 1 is provided on the inner surface of the housing 42. The engagement contact portion E <b> 1 is provided at a position where it can engage with the click engagement portion 56. The engagement contact part E1 of this embodiment is a convex part. The engagement contact portion E1 may be a recess, for example. A back-and-forth click feeling is generated by the engagement between the click engagement portion 56 and the engagement contact portion E1. A back-and-forth click feeling is generated by the forward and backward rotation of the lever 46.

  FIG. 12 is a plan view of the housing 42. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the housing 42. As shown in FIG. 12, the engagement contact portion E1 is provided in a predetermined range in the circumferential direction. In the present embodiment, the engagement contact portion E1 is provided in the range of the angle θa. A back-and-forth click feeling occurs in the range of the angle θa. The position where the back-and-forth click feeling is generated can be set by the circumferential position of the engagement contact portion E1. An angle range in which a forward / backward click feeling is generated can be set by the angle θa.

  There is no limitation on the range of left-right rotation that produces a back-and-forth click feeling. An example of a preferred embodiment is a configuration in which a back-and-forth click feeling occurs in an angle range RT2 (described later) in which hot water is discharged, and a back-and-forth click feeling does not occur in an angle range RT1 (described later) in which only water is discharged. In this case, it is preferable to match the angle θ2 (see FIG. 21) of the angle range RT2 with the angle θa. From the viewpoint of ensuring an appropriate angle range RT2, the angle θa is preferably 30 ° or more, more preferably 35 ° or more, and still more preferably 40 ° or more. From the viewpoint of securing an appropriate angle range RT1 at the same time, it is not preferable that the angle θa is excessive. In this respect, the angle θa is preferably 85 ° or less, more preferably 80 ° or less, and further preferably 75 ° or less.

  FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view at a position where the engagement contact portion E1 does not exist. Therefore, the engagement contact portion E1 is not shown in FIG. In FIG. 6, the position in the left-right direction of the handle 14 is a position where a back-and-forth click feeling does not occur.

  FIG. 14A is a perspective view of the click engagement portion 56. FIG. 14B is a side view of the click engagement portion 56. FIG. 14C is a cross-sectional view of the click engagement portion 56.

  The click engagement part 56 has a base part 56a, a main part 56b, and a convex part 56c. In the present embodiment, the click engagement portion 56 has a plurality of convex portions 56c. The click engaging part 56 has five convex parts 56c.

  The base portion 56 a serves to fix the click engagement portion 56 to the lever 46. The base portion 56a is fitted into the concave portion 49 of the lever 46 (see FIG. 8). Both edge portions of the base portion 56a are inserted into the slide groove 51 (see FIG. 11). The base portion 56a is a plate-like member having a certain curvature. The base portion 56a has a shape along a circle centered on the lever axis Z1 (see FIG. 11).

  The click engagement part 56 has a hollow part HL (see FIG. 14C). The hollow portion HL forms an opening 56t on the bottom surface of the base portion 56a. The inside of the main portion 56b is a hollow portion HL. The hollow portion HL extends to some of the convex portions 56c. That is, the click engagement portion 56 has a hollow convex portion 56h. In the present embodiment, three of the five convex portions 56c are hollow convex portions 56h.

  FIG. 15 is a plan view of the upper member 86. On the upper surface of the upper member 86, a large number of recesses 166 such as long holes are provided. These concave portions 166 contribute to weight reduction of the movable valve body 60.

  16, 17, 18 and 19 are cross-sectional views of the lever assembly 40 along the lever axis Z1. On the inner surface 121 of the small-diameter cylindrical portion 120, a click-generating convex portion 170 is provided. The left-right click sphere 52 is always urged toward the inner surface 121 by the elastic member 50.

[Movement of each part as the lever rotates back and forth]
As described above, in adjusting the discharge amount, the handle 14 is moved up and down (see arrow M in FIG. 3). The movement of the handle 14 causes the lever 46 to rotate back and forth. In conjunction with this forward / backward rotation, the lower end 95 of the lever 46 rotates. The movable valve body 60 is moved by the engagement between the lower end 95 and the lever engagement hole 98. The movable valve body 60 slides on the fixed valve body 62 along a straight line. During this sliding, the surface contact between the smooth surface PL1 and the smooth surface PL2 is maintained. At the same time, the movable valve body 60 slides with respect to the rotating body 44.

  The moving direction of the movable valve body 60 is regulated by the rotating body 44. Due to this restriction, the mixing ratio of hot and cold water does not change only by turning the lever back and forth. In the present embodiment, a plurality of movement direction regulating mechanisms are employed. The movement direction regulating mechanism is an engagement between the rotating body 44 and the movable valve body 60 (upper member 86).

  A rotating body 44 is involved in this movement direction regulating mechanism. As shown in FIG. 10E, a slide groove Gv is provided on the back surface of the rotating body 44 (the base 102). The slide groove Gv has a bottom surface Gv1 and two side surfaces Gv2. Engaging protrusions 99 are fitted in the slide grooves Gv.

  The first movement direction restricting mechanism is an engagement between the engagement convex portion 99 of the upper member 86 and the slide groove Gv of the rotating body 44. More specifically, the side surface 174 (see FIG. 15) of the engagement convex portion 99 slides with the side surface Gv2 of the slide groove Gv. The direction of this slide is a linear direction D1 along the side surface 174 of the engaging convex portion 99.

  The second movement direction regulating mechanism is a relationship between the side surface 180 (see FIGS. 15 and 8) of the upper member 86 and the downward convex portion 182 (see FIG. 10 (e)) provided on the base 102 of the rotating body 44. That's right. The downward convex portion 182 has a side surface 183. The side surface 183 slides with the side surface 180 of the upper member 86. The moving direction by this engagement is also the linear direction D1 described above. The side surface 180 and the side surface 174 described above are parallel.

  Thus, the movement direction is more reliably controlled by providing a plurality of movement direction regulating mechanisms for the same movement direction D1.

[Movement of each part as the lever rotates left and right]
As described above, in the temperature adjustment, the handle 14 is rotated left and right. As the handle 14 rotates left and right, the lever 46 also rotates left and right. The movable valve body 60 is rotated by the left and right rotation of the lever 46. This rotation is achieved by the engagement between the lower end 95 of the lever 46 and the lever engagement hole 98. The movable valve body 60 rotates with respect to the fixed valve body 62. During this rotation, the surface contact between the smooth surface PL1 and the smooth surface PL2 is maintained. By this rotation, the mixing ratio of hot water and water changes, and the temperature of the discharged water is adjusted. Thus, the hot and cold water mixing tap 10 has a temperature adjustment mechanism that can adjust the water discharge temperature by turning the lever 46 left and right.

  Such a lever assembly 40 has a left-right click mechanism and a front-rear click mechanism. The left / right click mechanism is a mechanism that expresses a click feeling associated with the left / right rotation of the lever 46. The back-and-forth click mechanism is a mechanism that expresses a click feeling associated with the lever 46 rotating back and forth.

[Click feeling when turning left and right (left and right click feeling)]
The click feeling in the left-right rotation operation is generated by the left-right click mechanism. In the present application, this click feeling is also simply referred to as a left-right click feeling. As shown in FIGS. 16 to 18, this left-right click feeling is caused by engagement or disengagement between the left-right click sphere 52 and the convex portion 170. As the lever 46 rotates left and right, the state shown in FIG. 16 is changed to the state shown in FIG. 18 through the state shown in FIG. FIG. 17 shows a state in which the sphere 52 is engaged with the convex portion 170. FIG. 18 shows a state immediately after the engagement between the sphere 52 and the convex portion 170 is released. As the lever 46 is rotated left and right, the state shifts from the non-engaged state of FIG. 16 to the engaged state of FIG. 17 and further to the disengaged state of FIG.

  In the engaged state shown in FIG. 17, the elastic member 50 is compressed and the resistance force at the time of left-right rotation is increased. The sensation resulting from this increase in resistance is also an example of a left-right click feeling. In addition, vibration occurs at the moment of disengagement. This vibration produces a typical left-right click feeling. In addition, a sound is generated at the moment of disengagement. The sense resulting from this sound is also an example of a left-right click feeling.

  In the present embodiment, the left and right positions of the handle 14 in FIG. 16 are a front position S1 (described later). The left and right positions of the handle 14 in FIG. 17 are 5 degrees closer to the hot water side than the front position S1 (described later). The left and right positions of the handle 14 in FIG. 18 are 10 degrees closer to the hot water side than the front position S1 (described later). The left and right positions of the handle 14 in FIG. 19 are 60 degrees closer to the hot water side than the front position S1 (described later). The position of 60 degrees on the hot water side is a left limit ML described later.

  Except for the engaged state of FIG. 17, the left-right click sphere 52 is not in contact with the inner surface 121 (see FIGS. 16, 18 and 19). The sphere (contact body) 52 is always urged toward the contact surface 12 by the elastic member 50, but the position of the left-right click sphere 52 is controlled by the shaft holding body 54. By this control, the sphere (contact body) 52 does not contact the inner surface 121 at a position where the click feeling does not occur. Thus, in this left-right click mechanism, the position of the contact body 52 is controlled so that the contact surface 121 and the contact body 52 are separated from each other in at least a part of the position where the click feeling does not occur. In the left and right click mechanism of this embodiment, the position of the contact body 52 is controlled so that the contact surface 121 and the contact body 52 are separated from each other in the entire position where the click feeling does not occur. With this configuration, wear due to sliding is suppressed, and the left-right click feeling can be accurately maintained over a long period of time. On the other hand, the controlled position of the abutment body 52 is a position where it can abut on the click expression part (convex part 170). Therefore, the left-right click feeling is surely expressed.

  Needless to say, the spherical body (contact body) 52 may always be in contact with the inner surface 121 regardless of the left-right position.

[Click feeling in front-back rotation operation (front-back click feeling)]
The click feeling in the forward / backward rotation operation is generated by the forward / backward click mechanism. In the present application, this click feeling is also referred to as a back-and-forth click feeling. As shown in FIG. 11, the convex portion 56c and the engagement contact portion E1 are in a positional relationship where they can engage with each other. As the lever 46 rotates back and forth, the click engagement portion 56 rotates about the lever axis Z1. By the rotation of the click engagement portion 56, click engagement is generated between the click engagement portion 56 and the engagement contact portion E1. Click engagement means an engagement that can cause a click feeling. This click engagement causes a back-and-forth click feeling.

  The convex part 56c is an elastic deformation part. In the click engagement, elastic deformation and deformation recovery occur in the convex portion 56c. When the click engagement portion 56 rotates while the engagement contact portion E1 and the convex portion 56c are in contact with each other, the convex portion 56c is bent by elastic deformation. When the rotation of the click engagement portion 56 further proceeds, the contact between the engagement contact portion E1 and the convex portion 56c is released. This release causes deformation recovery.

  The plurality of convex portions 56c are arranged at predetermined intervals in the rotation direction about the lever axis Z1. Therefore, the plurality of convex portions 56c are sequentially engaged with the engagement contact portion E1 by the forward and backward rotation of the lever 46. In the forward / backward rotation of the lever 46, the first convex portion 56c is engaged and disengaged, and then the second convex portion 56c adjacent to the first convex portion 56c is engaged and disengaged. Occurs. In this manner, the plurality of convex portions 56c are configured to sequentially get over the engagement contact portion E1. Therefore, a plurality of click feelings occur while the lever 46 is rotated once in one direction.

  In the state in which the convex portion 56c is elastically deformed, the resistance to the vertical rotation of the handle 14 increases. This increase in resistance is an example of a click feeling. The resistance decreases at the moment when the contact between the engagement contact portion E1 and the convex portion 56c is released. This decrease in resistance is an example of a click feeling. A sound may be generated at the moment when the contact between the engagement contact portion E1 and the convex portion 56c is released. This sound is an example of a click feeling. Vibration may occur at the moment when the contact between the engagement contact portion E1 and the convex portion 56c is released. This vibration is an example of a click feeling.

  Of the five convex portions 56c, the three convex portions 56k get over the engagement contact portion E1 (see FIG. 14A). Of the five convex portions 56c, the three convex portions 56c excluding the convex portions 56c at both ends are the convex portions 56k. For this reason, as will be described later, the number N of back-and-forth click feeling is three. The number of convex portions 56k that can get over the engagement contact portion E1 is the same as the number of clicks N.

The following is exemplified as a situation when a back-and-forth click feeling occurs.
[Situation 1]: When the convex portion 56c (the convex portion 56k) gets over the engagement contact portion E1, a back-and-forth click feeling is generated.
[Situation 2]: When the engagement contact portion E1 that has overcome the convex portion 56c contacts the adjacent convex portion 56c, a back-and-forth click feeling is generated.
[Situation 3]: Situation 1 and Situation 2 occur almost simultaneously, so that a back-and-forth click feeling occurs.

  Of the five convex portions 56c, the convex portions 56c located at both ends (upper and lower ends) do not participate in the click feeling in the situation 1, but can participate in the click feeling in the situation 2 and the situation 3. Therefore, the convex portions 56c at both ends can also contribute to the reliable generation of the back-and-forth click feeling.

  When the lever 46 is at the forward / backward limit position, the engagement contact portion E1 is located between the upper or lower convex portion 56c and the convex portion 56k adjacent to the convex portion 56c. At this time, the engagement contact portion E1 is sandwiched between the convex portion 56c and the convex portion 56k at the upper end or the lower end. Due to this pinching, the displacement of the click engagement portion 56 is prevented.

  Depending on the left and right position of the lever 46, the position where the engagement contact portion E1 and the click engagement portion 56 are not engaged (the non-engagement left and right position), and the engagement contact portion E1 and the click engagement portion 56 are engaged. Position (engagement left and right position) can occur. There is no back-and-forth click feeling at the disengaged left and right positions. At the engagement left / right position, a back-and-forth click feeling is generated. When the lever 46 is rotated left and right from the non-engaged left and right position to the engaged left and right position, the engagement contact portion E1 enters between the adjacent convex portions 56c. The upper and lower protrusions 56c can contribute to ensuring this entry.

  FIG. 20 is a plan view for explaining the left-right rotation of the handle 14. The handle 14 can turn left and right from the left limit ML to the right limit MR. The range RF is a possible range in which the handle 14 can be rotated left and right. The angle of this range RF is indicated by the symbol θf. In the embodiment of FIG. 20, the center circumferential position C1 of this range RF is the front position S1 of the handle 14.

  Note that the circumferential position of the handle 14 is the same as the circumferential position of the lever 46. A circumferential position is synonymous with a left-right position. The angle range RT1 is a lever left-right position from which only water is discharged. Hot water is not discharged in the angle range RT1. The angle range RT2 is a lever left-right position from which hot water is discharged. In the angle range RT2, hot water and water are mixed or only hot water is discharged. As shown in FIG. 20, the angle range RT1 is on the right side of the center circumferential position C1 when viewed from the user. As shown in FIG. 20, the angle range RT2 is on the left side of the center circumferential position C1 as viewed from the user. From the viewpoint of the user, the angle range RT1 is on the right side of the angle range RT2.

  When the circumferential position of the handle 14 is in the angle range RT1, hot water is not mixed. That is, when the circumferential position of the handle 14 is in the angle range RT1, the ratio of water is 100%. A range RT1 is a water discharge position. In the present embodiment, hot water is not mixed when the handle 14 is on the right side of the front.

  Even when the circumferential position of the handle 14 is at the central circumferential position C1, hot water is not mixed. That is, that is, when the circumferential position of the handle 14 is at the central circumferential position C1 (front position S1), the ratio of water is 100%. The position C1 (position S1) is a water discharge position.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 20, the turnable range RF of the handle 14 is symmetric with respect to the front position S1, but may be asymmetric with respect to the left and right.

  FIG. 21 shows a hot and cold water mixing tap according to an embodiment different from FIG. In the present embodiment, the boundary K1 between the angle range RT1 and the angle range RT2 is located on the left side of the front position S1. The boundary K1 is located on the hot water side with respect to the front position S1. In this embodiment, even when the lever left-right position is shifted from the front position S1 to the hot water side, only water can be discharged. For this reason, unintended mixing of hot water is suppressed, which can contribute to energy saving.

  The lever assembly 40 employs the form shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 21, a double arrow θk indicates an angle between the front position S1 and the boundary K1. From the viewpoint of energy saving, the angle θk is preferably 2 degrees or more, more preferably 3 degrees or more, and further preferably 4 degrees or more. If the angle range RT2 is excessively narrow, the water discharge temperature may be difficult to adjust. In this respect, the angle θk is preferably 20 degrees or less, more preferably 15 degrees or less, and still more preferably 12 degrees or less. However, any angle θk is possible depending on the application. In the embodiment, the angle θk is 5 degrees.

  The circumferential position (angle θk) of the boundary K1 is adjusted by, for example, an angle θx described later. Of course, the angle θk may be adjusted by the position, shape, etc. of each valve hole and the flow path forming recess.

  If the angle range RT2 is too small, the angle range of the handle 14 that can adjust the hot / cold water mixing ratio becomes too narrow, and the change of the hot / cold water mixing ratio becomes too rapid. In this respect, the angle θ2 of the range RT2 is preferably 40 degrees or more, more preferably 50 degrees or more, and particularly preferably 55 degrees or more. If the angle range RT2 is too large, the angle range of the handle 14 that can adjust the hot / cold water mixing ratio becomes too wide, and the operability deteriorates. From this viewpoint, the angle θ2 of the range RT2 is preferably 100 degrees or less, more preferably 90 degrees or less, and particularly preferably 70 degrees or less.

  The angle θ1 of the angle range RT1 can be 0 degree. However, since the angle θ1 is not set to 0 degrees with a normal hot and cold water mixing tap, if θ1 is set to 0 degrees, the user may excessively operate the handle 14 to the right side of the center circumferential position C1. is there. Repeating this excessive operation may place an excessive burden on the hot / cold mixing tap and adversely affect the durability of the hot / cold mixing tap. In this respect, the angle θ1 of the range RT1 is preferably 10 degrees or more, more preferably 20 degrees or more, and particularly preferably 30 degrees or more. When the angle θ1 is excessive, the range in which the ratio of water is 100% becomes too wide and the operability is deteriorated. In this respect, the angle θ1 of the range RT1 is preferably 70 degrees or less, more preferably 60 degrees or less, and particularly preferably 50 degrees or less.

  If the angle ratio (θ1 / θ2) between the angle range RT1 and the angle range RT2 is too small, the angle θ1 becomes too small or the angle θ2 becomes too large, and the above-described problem is likely to occur. In this respect, the angle ratio (θ1 / θ2) is preferably equal to or greater than 0.2, more preferably equal to or greater than 0.4, and particularly preferably equal to or greater than 0.6. On the other hand, if the angle ratio (θ1 / θ2) is too large, the angle θ1 becomes too large or the angle θ2 becomes too small, and the above-described problem is likely to occur. In this respect, the angle ratio (θ1 / θ2) is preferably 0.9 or less, more preferably 0.8 or less, and particularly preferably 0.7 or less.

  In FIG. 21, a double arrow RT3 indicates an angular range in which a back-and-forth click feeling occurs. The angle θa in the range RT3 is as described above. In the present embodiment, the angle range RT3 coincides with the angle range RT2, and the back-and-forth click feeling does not occur in the angle range RT1. Conversely, a configuration is possible in which the angle range RT3 coincides with the angle range RT1, and the back-and-forth click feeling does not occur in the angle range RT2. With these configurations, whether or not hot water is being discharged can be determined based on the presence or absence of a back-and-forth click feeling. Thus, energy saving can be achieved.

  In FIG. 21, a double arrow θb indicates an angle from the front position S1 to the left and right position K2. The left-right position K2 is a left-right position where a back-and-forth click feeling is started. From the viewpoint of energy saving, the angle θb is preferably 2 degrees or more, more preferably 3 degrees or more, and further preferably 4 degrees or more. From the viewpoint of convenience, the angle θb is preferably 15 degrees or less, more preferably 12 degrees or less, and still more preferably 10 degrees or less. However, any angle θb is possible depending on the application. In the embodiment, the angle θb is 5 degrees.

  The embodiment of FIGS. 20 and 21 is merely exemplary. The relationship between the lever circumferential position and the mixing ratio of hot water can be set in various ways, and an effect corresponding to each setting can be achieved.

  FIG. 22A is a plan view of the fixed valve body 62. FIG. 22A is a view of the fixed valve body 62 as viewed from above. FIG. 22B is a bottom view of the fixed valve body 62. FIG. 22B is a view of the fixed valve body 62 as viewed from below. 22 (c) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line cc of FIG. 22 (a), FIG. 22 (d) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line dd of FIG. 22 (a), 22 (e) is a cross-sectional view taken along line ee in FIG. 22 (a), FIG. 22 (f) is a cross-sectional view taken along line ff in FIG. 22 (a), FIG.22 (g) is sectional drawing along the gg line of Fig.22 (a).

  As shown in FIG. 22A, the hot water valve hole 80 (upper surface opening line 80L) is a bent long hole. The water valve hole 82 (upper surface opening line 82L) is also a bent long hole.

  As shown in FIG. 22A, the hot water valve hole 80 has an upper surface opening line 80L. Upper surface opening line 80L is the opening shape of hot water valve hole 80 in smooth surface PL1. The water valve hole 82 has an upper surface opening line 82L. Upper surface opening line 82L is the opening shape of water valve hole 82 in smooth surface PL1. The mixed water valve hole 84 has an upper surface opening line 84L. The upper surface opening line 84L is the opening shape of the mixed water valve hole 84 in the smooth surface PL1.

  As shown in FIG. 22B, the hot water valve hole 80 has a lower surface opening line 80s. The water valve hole 82 has a lower surface opening line 82s. The mixed water valve hole 84 has a lower surface opening line 84s.

  As shown in FIG. 22A, the water valve hole 82 has a first wall surface portion W1 at one end in the longitudinal direction thereof. The water valve hole 82 has a second wall surface portion W2 at the other end in the longitudinal direction. The hot water valve hole 80 has a third wall surface portion W3 at one end in the longitudinal direction thereof. The hot water valve hole 80 has a fourth wall surface portion W4 at the other end in the longitudinal direction thereof.

  It is preferable that at least one of these wall surface portions W1 to W4 has an inclined surface. As shown in FIGS. 22A to 22G, the first wall surface portion W1 has an inclined surface SL1. The second wall surface portion W2 has an inclined surface SL2. The third wall surface portion W3 has an inclined surface SL3. The fourth wall surface portion W4 has an inclined surface SL4.

  These inclined surfaces SL1 to SL4 are inclined with respect to the vertical direction when the hot and cold water mixing tap 10 is in use. These inclined surfaces SL1 to SL4 are visible from above (smooth surface PL1) (see FIG. 22A).

  Thus, the wall surface of the hot water valve hole 80 has the inclined surfaces SL3 and SL4. The wall surface of the water valve hole 82 has inclined surfaces SL1 and SL2.

  These inclined surfaces SL1 to SL4 contribute to the suppression of the water hammer. The water hammer is a phenomenon in which sound is generated inside the mixer tap due to the impact of water pressure when the water stop state is switched to the water discharge state. When hot water or water suddenly flows into the hot water valve hole 80 or the water valve hole 82, a water hammer is generated.

  The inclined surfaces SL1 to SL4 suppress this rapid inflow. Therefore, water hammer is suppressed. Since hot water or water flows obliquely along the inclined surface, the impact of water pressure is alleviated.

  Moreover, since hot water flows in at an angle, the water pressure impact acting on the movable valve body 60 and the like is alleviated. This relaxation can improve the durability of the hot and cold water mixing tap 10.

  The inclined surfaces SL1 to SL4 may be flat surfaces or curved surfaces. Further, the inclined surfaces SL1 to SL4 may be smooth or may be stepped (for example, stepped).

  As shown in FIG. 22A, the upper surface opening line 80L of the hot water valve hole 80 and the upper surface opening line 82L of the water valve hole 82 are formed asymmetrically. That is, in the plan view of FIG. 22A, there is no symmetry axis where the upper surface opening line 80L and the upper surface opening line 82L overlap when the figure is reversed with a certain straight line as an axis. For example, the upper opening line 80L and the upper opening line 82L have no symmetry with respect to the lever longitudinal center line Lc (see FIGS. 22A and 22B). When viewed from above, the lever front-rear direction center line Lc coincides with the center line of the lever 46 when the lever 46 is at the center circumferential position C1 (see FIGS. 20 and 21).

  Of course, the upper surface opening line 80L and the upper surface opening line 82L may be bilaterally symmetric.

  One method for increasing the degree of freedom of the hot water switching function is to design various positional relationships between the flow path forming recess 94, the hot water valve hole 80, and the water valve hole 82. The design freedom of the hot water valve hole 80 and the water valve hole 82 is improved by not being limited to the above-described symmetrical configuration. Therefore, various hot and cold water switching functions can be realized without causing a large cost increase.

  Conventionally, the hot water valve hole 80 and the water valve hole 82 are arranged symmetrically. The inclined surface SL is not provided on the side surfaces of the hot water valve hole 80 and the water valve hole 82, and the side surface of the hot water valve hole 80 is perpendicular to the smooth surface PL1. As a result, in the hot water valve hole 80, the upper surface opening line and the lower surface opening line were in the same position and in the same shape. Similarly, in the water valve hole 82, the upper surface opening line and the lower surface opening line were in the same position and in the same shape. In such a configuration, if the upper surface opening line has a special shape such as left-right asymmetry, the lower surface opening line also has a special shape. When the lower surface opening line has a special shape, the widely used base body 68 does not conform to the lower surface opening line. That is, a situation occurs in which the general-purpose base body 68 cannot be used.

  On the other hand, in the said embodiment, the shape and arrangement | positioning differ by the upper surface opening line 80L and the lower surface opening line 80s. Further, the shape and position of the upper surface opening line 82L and the lower surface opening line 82s are different. The aforementioned inclined surfaces SL1 to SL4 cause these differences. In this configuration, the shape of the lower surface opening lines 80s and 82s can be adapted to the general-purpose base body 68 while increasing the design freedom of the upper surface opening lines 80L and 82L. From this viewpoint, it is preferable that the lower surface opening line 82s and the lower surface opening line 80s are symmetric (see FIG. 22B). The lower surface opening line 82s and the lower surface opening line 80s are symmetric (left-right symmetric), and the axis of symmetry is the lever front-rear direction center line Lc.

  FIG. 23A is a plan view of the lower member 88 of the movable valve body 60. FIG. 23A is a view of the lower member 88 as viewed from above. FIG. 23B is a bottom view of the lower member 88. FIG. 23B is a view of the lower member 88 as viewed from below. FIG.23 (c) is sectional drawing along the cc line of FIG.23 (b). FIG.23 (d) is sectional drawing along the dd line of FIG.23 (b).

  The flow path forming recess 94 has a lower surface opening line 94L. The lower surface opening line 94L is the opening shape of the flow path forming recess 94 in the smooth surface PL2.

  FIGS. 24A to 24F are views showing an overlapping state of the upper surface of the fixed valve body 62 and the lower surface of the movable valve body 60 (lower member 88). 24 (a) to 24 (f), the line of the movable valve body 60 hidden by the fixed valve body 62 when viewed from above is drawn with a broken line, and the lower surface line of the movable valve body 60 (lower member 88) is shown. It is drawn with a solid line. 24A to 24F, the upper surface opening line 80L, the upper surface opening line 82L, and the lower surface opening line 94L are shown in an overlapping state.

  24A to 24F, the lower surface line of the movable valve body 60 that cannot be seen from above is shown by a solid line. Note that this point is different from a normal drawing.

  FIG. 24A shows a state in which the lever left-right position is the left limit ML, and the lever front-rear position is the upper limit (discharge stop). FIG. 24B shows a state in which the lever left-right position is the left limit ML, and the lever front-rear position is the lower limit (discharge maximum). FIG. 24C shows a state where the lever left-right position is the center circumferential position C1 (front position S1), and the lever front-rear position is the upper limit (discharge stop). FIG. 24D shows a state where the lever left-right position is the center circumferential position C1 (front position S1) and the lever front-rear position is the lower limit (maximum discharge). FIG. 24E shows a state in which the lever left-right position is the right limit MR, and the lever front-rear position is the upper limit (discharge stop). FIG. 24F shows a state in which the lever left-right position is the right limit MR, and the lever front-rear position is the lower limit (maximum discharge position).

  A region X surrounded by the upper surface opening line 80L is indicated by broken line hatching in FIG. This region X is an upper surface opening region of the hot water valve hole 80. A region Y surrounded by the upper surface opening line 82L is indicated by broken line hatching in FIG. This region Y is an upper surface opening region of the water valve hole 82. A region Z surrounded by the lower surface opening line 94L is indicated by broken line hatching in FIG. This region Z is a lower surface opening region of the flow path forming recess 94 in the movable valve body 60 (lower member 88).

  In FIG. 22A, a region E indicated by two-dot chain hatching is a region surrounded by the upper surface opening line 84 </ b> L of the mixed water valve hole 84.

  Solid line hatching in FIG. 24B indicates an overlapping region XZ of the region X and the region Z. The hatching in FIG. 24D indicates an overlapping region YZ between the region Y and the region Z. The hatching in FIG. 24E indicates an overlapping region YZ between the region Y and the region Z.

  In all the movable regions, the region E of the mixed water valve hole 84 overlaps the region Z of the flow path forming recess 94.

[Flow of hot water]
The hot water reaches the hot water valve hole 80 via the hot water introduction section (the hot water introduction pipe 18 and the hot water introduction port 70). The water reaches the water valve hole 82 through the water introduction part (the water introduction pipe 20 and the water introduction port 72).

  The hot water that has reached the hot water valve hole 80 flows into the flow path forming recess 94. This inflow is caused by the region XZ. As the movable valve body 60 slides, the area of the region XZ changes. When the region XZ does not exist, hot water does not flow into the flow path forming recess 94. The case where the region XZ does not exist means that the hot water valve hole 80 is completely closed by the smooth surface PL2 constituting the lower surface of the movable valve body 60 (lower member 88). An example of a state in which the hot water valve hole 80 is completely closed by the smooth surface PL2 is shown in FIGS. 24 (d) and 24 (f).

  The water that has reached the water valve hole 82 flows into the flow path forming recess 94. This inflow is caused by the region YZ. As the movable valve body 60 slides, the area of the region YZ changes. When the region YZ does not exist, water does not flow into the flow path forming recess 94. The case where the region YZ does not exist means that the water valve hole 82 is completely closed by the smooth surface PL2 constituting the lower surface of the movable valve body 60 (lower member 88). An example of a state in which the water valve hole 82 is completely blocked by the smooth surface PL2 is shown in FIG.

  The hot water and / or water that has reached the flow path forming recess 94 reaches the discharge portion 16 via the mixed water valve hole 84, the discharge port 74, and the discharge pipe 22.

  The mixing ratio of hot water and water depends on the area ratio R1 between the region XZ and the region YZ. As the handle 14 turns, the movable valve body 60 rotates via the lever 46. By the rotation of the movable valve body 60, the area ratio R1 changes. This change adjusts the water temperature.

  The discharge amount depends on the total area Sa of the region XZ and the region YZ. As the handle 14 moves up and down, the lever 46 rotates back and forth, and the movable valve body 60 moves in the linear direction D1. Due to the movement of the movable valve body 60, the total area Sa changes. The discharge amount is adjusted by this change. In this manner, the hot and cold water mixing tap 10 has a discharge amount adjusting mechanism that can adjust the discharge amount by rotating the lever 46 back and forth.

  When the total area Sa is zero, the discharge is stopped. The case where the total area Sa is zero means that the hot water valve hole 80 and the water valve hole 82 are completely closed by the smooth surface PL2. An example in which the hot water valve hole 80 and the water valve hole 82 are completely closed by the smooth surface PL2 is shown in FIGS. 24 (a), 24 (c) and 24 (e).

  In FIG. 24B, the region YZ does not exist. When the lever left-right position is the left limit ML, water is not mixed regardless of the lever vertical rotation position. That is, in this case, hot water is 100%.

  In FIG. 24D, the region XZ does not exist. When the lever left-right position is the central circumferential position C1, hot water is not mixed regardless of the lever vertical rotation position. That is, in this case, water is 100%. Therefore, the water heater does not operate and energy saving is achieved. In general, the user of the hot and cold water mixing tap tends to use the lever in accordance with the center circumferential position C1. In the hot and cold water mixing tap 10, energy saving is achieved at the central circumferential position C <b> 1 that has a high tendency to be used.

  In FIG. 24F, the region XZ does not exist. When the lever left-right position is the right limit MR, hot water is not mixed regardless of the lever vertical rotation position. That is, in this case, water is 100%.

  FIGS. 25A to 25F are the same as FIGS. 24A to 24F. However, from the viewpoint of facilitating understanding of the drawings, in FIGS. 25 (a) to (f), some of the reference numerals described in FIGS. 24 (a) to (f) are omitted.

  In FIGS. 25A, 25C, and 25E, a double arrow D1 indicates a linear direction of movement of the movable valve body 60. As the lever 46 rotates back and forth, the lower surface opening line 94L moves along the linear direction D1.

   In FIGS. 25A, 25 </ b> C, and 20 </ b> E, a double-headed arrow D <b> 2 indicates the front-rear direction of the lever 46 that rotates forward and backward. The front-rear direction D2 is the front-rear rotation direction of the lever 46 in plan view as viewed from above. The front-rear direction D2 is a direction perpendicular to the lever axis Z1. When considering an intersection line Lm (not shown) between the plane perpendicular to the lever axis Z1 and the smooth surface PL2, the front-rear direction D2 is parallel to the intersection line Lm.

  In the hot and cold water mixing tap 10, the front-rear direction D2 is not parallel to the linear direction D1. In FIGS. 25A, 25C, and 25E, a double arrow θx indicates an angle formed by the linear direction D1 and the front-rear direction D2. By setting the angle θx, the degree of freedom of the water discharge specification is improved.

  Here, attention is focused on FIGS. 25 (c) and 25 (d). That is, attention is paid to the case where the lever left-right position is the center circumferential position C1. If the movable valve body 60 moves in the front-rear direction D2, a region XZ is generated in the discharge state of FIG. That is, hot water is mixed by this region XZ. However, in the present embodiment, the linear direction D1 is inclined with respect to the front-rear direction D2. And the direction of this inclination is a direction which avoids duplication with the valve hole 80 for hot water in the state whose lever right-and-left position is the center periphery position C1. Therefore, when the lever left-right position is the central circumferential position C1, even when the lever 46 is rotated in the discharge direction, the movable valve body 60 moves along the linear direction D1, so that only the region YZ is generated, and the region XZ Does not occur (see FIG. 25D).

  FIG. 26A is a plan view showing the shape of the lower surface opening line 94L. The lower surface opening line 94L has a straight portion ST. The straight portion ST is parallel to the linear direction D1 (see FIGS. 25A, 25C, and 25E). The lower surface opening line 94L is disposed on the hot water valve hole 80 side. In a state where the discharge amount is the maximum, when shifting from a state where only water is discharged to a state where hot water is mixed, it is this straight shape that first overlaps the upper surface opening line 80L among the lower surface opening lines 94L. Part ST. Such arrangement of the straight portion ST contributes to preventing mixing of hot water when the lever left-right position is the center circumferential position C1 (see FIG. 25 (d)).

  The straight portion ST is preferably substantially parallel to the linear direction D1. The term “substantially parallel” is intended to allow an error angle of ± 5 degrees. The error angle is preferably ± 3 degrees, and more preferably, the straight portion ST and the linear direction D1 are parallel to each other as in the above embodiment. When the straight part ST is not a straight line, the error angle and the parallelism are determined by a straight line connecting both ends of the straight part ST.

  By providing the straight portion ST along the linear direction D1, mixing of hot water is effectively prevented in the entire range of forward and backward rotation at the central circumferential position C1. Therefore, mixing of hot water against the user's intention is suppressed, and energy saving can be achieved. In addition, since it is not necessary to avoid mixing hot water with a special valve hole shape, the degree of freedom in designing the valve hole is improved.

  By improving the degree of freedom in designing the valve hole, it is easy to provide the movable valve body 60 and the fixed valve body 62 with a front-rear click mechanism and / or a left-right click mechanism. For example, it may be easy to provide the movable valve body 60 with a concave portion and / or a convex portion or with a retracting mechanism. In addition, it may be easy to provide the fixed valve body 62 with a concave portion and / or a convex portion or provide a retracting mechanism. Therefore, the degree of freedom in designing the click feeling mode can be improved.

  In the present embodiment, the generation of the region XZ (see FIG. 25B) is controlled by making the linear direction D1 different from the front-rear direction D2. For this reason, the restriction of the valve hole shape can be reduced. Therefore, the degree of freedom in designing the valve hole shape is improved. This improvement in the degree of design freedom improves the degree of freedom in setting the relationship between the hot / cold water mixing ratio and the lever turning operation. In addition, the degree of freedom is improved in setting the relationship between the discharge amount and the lever back-and-forth rotation operation.

  In general, the supply pressure of hot water supplied to the hot water valve hole 80 is lower than the supply pressure of water supplied to the hot water valve hole 82. This is due to the fact that the hot water reaches the hot water mixing tap 10 via the hot water supply device. By providing the straight portion ST on the hot water valve hole 80 side, the region XZ (FIG. 25B) is likely to increase with a small turning angle in turning to the hot water side (turning to the left in FIG. 21). In particular, when switching from a state where only water is discharged to a state where hot water is mixed, the mixing ratio of hot water tends to increase. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a situation in which the water discharge temperature is unlikely to rise despite being in the lever left and right positions where hot water is mixed. For this reason, the hot and cold water mixing tap 10 with easy temperature control can be realized.

  The length of the lower surface opening line 94L in the direction parallel to the linear direction D1 is Lf. In the present application, the straight portion ST means a portion formed by a line having a radius of curvature that is equal to or greater than twice the length Lf. In the straight portion ST, the radius of curvature may change. From the viewpoint of ease of manufacture and design, the straight portion ST is preferably formed by a line having a radius of curvature of three or more times the length Lf, and the most preferable shape of the straight portion ST is a straight line. is there. Note that the radius of curvature of the straight portion ST can be 20 mm or more, further 25 mm or more, for example, 28 mm.

  The angle θx (see FIG. 25A, etc.) is preferably 5 degrees or more from the viewpoint of preventing mixing of hot water when the lever left-right position is the center circumferential position C1 and increasing the degree of freedom in designing each valve hole. 10 degrees or more is more preferable, and 20 degrees or more is particularly preferable. From the viewpoint of facilitating the forward and backward rotation operation of the lever 46, the angle θx is preferably 50 degrees or less, more preferably 45 degrees or less, and particularly preferably 40 degrees or less. In the present embodiment, the angle θx is 39 degrees.

  In addition, the convex part m1 is provided in the lower surface opening line 94L. The convex portion m1 can alleviate a rapid inflow of hot water or water into the flow path forming concave portion 94 when shifting from the water stop state to the discharge state. Therefore, these convex-shaped parts m1 contribute to suppression of a water hammer.

  26B, 26C, and 26D are modified examples of the lower surface opening line 94L. As shown in FIG. 26C, the straight portion ST may not be provided. Further, as shown in FIG. 26D, straight portions ST may be provided on both the hot water valve hole 80 side and the water valve hole 82 side. Depending on the shape of the lower surface opening line 94L, the water discharge specification can be changed.

  The configuration that realizes the inclination of the linear direction D1 with respect to the front-rear direction D2 is the movement direction regulating mechanism described above. Fig.27 (a) is sectional drawing of the lever assembly 40 in a water discharging state. FIG. 27A is a cross-sectional view along the upper surface of the upper member 86. FIG. 27B is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly 40 in a water stop state. FIG. 27B is a cross-sectional view along the upper surface of the upper member 86.

  As shown in FIG. 27A, a gap Gp is provided between the lower end portion (hatched portion) of the lever 46 and the lever engagement hole 98. As described above, the movement direction of the lower end portion of the lever 46 accompanying the front-rear rotation is the front-rear direction D2, but the movement direction of the movable valve body 60 (upper member 86) is the linear direction D1. The gap Gp allows the movable valve body 60 to move along the linear direction D1. Although the linear direction D1 and the front-rear direction D2 are different due to the presence of the gap Gp, the lower end of the lever 46 does not hinder the movement of the movable valve body 60.

  As shown in FIG. 27A, in the state where the discharge amount is maximum, the gap Gp is located on the right side of the lever 46 as viewed from the user side of the hot water mixing tap 10, and in this case, on the left side of the lever 46 There is substantially no gap Gp. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 27 (b), in the water stop state, the gap Gp is located on the left side of the lever 46 as viewed from the user side of the hot water mixing tap 10, and in this case, on the right side of the lever 46. There is substantially no gap Gp. With these configurations, the size of the gap Gp is minimized. Although not shown, in the intermediate state between the maximum water discharge and the water stop, the gap Gp exists on the right side and the left side of the lever 46 when viewed from the user side of the hot water mixing tap 10. In FIG. 27A, the reference symbol G <b> 1 indicates a gap distance on the right side of the lever 46. In FIG. 27 (b), what is indicated by reference numeral G2 is the gap distance on the left side of the lever 46. [G1 + G2] is constant regardless of the position of the lever 46 in the vertical direction.

  The depth of the recess 96 (see FIGS. 8 and 23A) is such that the lower end of the lever 46 and the movable valve body 60 (upper member 86) do not come into contact with each other in the entire range of forward and backward rotation of the lever 46. Is set to This facilitates the operation of turning the lever 46 back and forth.

  The smooth left / right rotation of the lever 46 increases the sensitivity of the left / right click feeling. For example, a minute left-right click feeling is easily recognized. Therefore, the degree of freedom for setting the left-right click feeling can be improved. The smooth back-and-forth rotation of the lever 46 increases the sensitivity of the back-and-forth click feeling. For example, a minute back-and-forth click feeling is easily recognized. Therefore, the degree of freedom for setting the back-and-forth click feeling can be improved.

  In the above embodiment, the click feeling in the front-rear rotation (front-rear click feeling) differs depending on the lever left-right position. In the above embodiment, the difference between the front and rear click feelings is the presence or absence of the front and rear click feeling. In the above embodiment, a back-and-forth click feeling is generated at the lever left-right position corresponding to the angle range θa (see FIG. 12), and no back-and-forth click feeling is generated at other lever left-right positions. In the embodiment, the angle range θa corresponds to the angle range RT2 (see FIG. 21). In the above embodiment, a back-and-forth click feeling is generated at the lever left-right position (range RT2) from which hot water is discharged. In the above embodiment, there is no back-and-forth click feeling at the lever left-right position (range RT1) where only water is discharged. It is easy for the user to determine whether or not there is a back-and-forth click feeling. In the above embodiment, whether hot water is mixed or not is easily determined based on the presence or absence of a back-and-forth click feeling.

  It may be difficult to determine whether hot water is mixed based only on the temperature of the discharged water. For example, when the mixing ratio of hot water is small, the temperature is not so high as compared with the case where water is 100%. Therefore, in this case, mixing of hot water may not be noticed only from the temperature of the discharged water. Even when the mixing ratio of hot water is high, the temperature of the discharged water may not rise until the hot water heated by a heating device such as a water heater reaches the faucet. Also in this case, the mixing of hot water may not be noticed only from the temperature of the discharged water. Also, depending on the circumferential position of the handle 14, it may not be possible to accurately determine whether hot water is mixed. In such a case, hot water may be mixed against the user's intention. Even though the user intends to use 100% water, the hot water may actually be mixed. In this case, energy is wasted. In the above embodiment, whether hot water is mixed or not is easily determined based on the presence or absence of a back-and-forth click feeling. Therefore, waste of energy is suppressed.

  In the present embodiment, by changing the angle range θa (see FIG. 12) of the engagement contact portion E1, the angle range in which the back-and-forth click feeling is generated can be freely designed. Further, by changing the specifications of the click engagement portion 56 and the engagement contact portion E1, it is possible to easily change the strength of the back-and-forth click feeling and the number of times. This embodiment is excellent in the degree of freedom in designing the back-and-forth click feeling.

The following is exemplified as the setting for the presence or absence of a click feeling. The following setting 1 is a setting in the above-described embodiment.
[Setting 1]: There is no back-and-forth click feeling at the lever left-right position (the above range RT1) where only water is discharged. A back-and-forth click feeling occurs at the lever left-right position (range RT2) from which hot water is discharged.
[Setting 2]: A back-and-forth click feeling occurs at the lever left-right position where only water is discharged. There is no back-and-forth click feeling at the lever left and right positions where hot water is discharged.

The following setting 3 is also exemplified as the click feeling specification.
[Setting 3]: The back-and-forth click feeling is different between the lever left-right position where only water is discharged and the lever left-right position where hot water is discharged.

In this setting 3, for example, there are two types of back-and-forth click feeling. Of course, there may be three or more types of back-and-forth click feeling, and one example is the following setting 4.
[Setting 4]: A first back-and-forth click feeling occurs at the lever left-right position where the water mixing ratio is 100%, and a second back-and-forth click feeling occurs at the lever left-right position where the water mixing ratio is greater than or equal to Wa% and less than 100%. And a third back-and-forth click feeling occurs at the lever left-right position where the mixing ratio of water is less than Wa%.

 For example, the mixing ratio Wa% may be set to such a ratio that the water temperature becomes dangerous when directly touched by a human body. In this case, whether or not hot hot water is discharged can be sensed by a click feeling.

The presence or absence of a click feeling and a difference in click feeling may be combined, and an example thereof is the following setting 5.
[Setting 5]: No back-and-forth click feeling is generated at the lever left-right position where the water mixing ratio is 100%, and the first back-and-forth click feeling is generated at the lever left-right position where the water mixing ratio is greater than or equal to Wa% and less than 100%. The second back-and-forth click feeling occurs at the lever left-right position where the mixing ratio of water is less than Wa%.

  In order to make the back-and-forth click feeling different depending on the lever left-right position, the specification of the engagement contact portion E1 may be changed depending on the circumferential position. As the specification of the engagement contact portion E1, the height Hb of the engagement contact portion E1 and the number of protrusions Nb of the engagement contact portion E1 are exemplified. In the embodiment of FIG. 11, the number of protrusions Nb is 1.

How to make the back-and-forth click feeling different is not limited. The following is exemplified as the specification of the back-and-forth click feeling that can be made different.
[Specification 1]: Number of back-and-forth click feeling when the lever is rotated from the discharge stop position to the maximum discharge position N
[Specification 2]: Resistance feeling when the lever is rotated back and forth when a back-and-forth click feeling occurs [Specification 3]: Sound when a back-and-forth click feeling occurs

  Note that the sense of resistance is synonymous with the rotational moment necessary to rotate the lever.

  The specification of the left-right click feeling can be changed to the position, number and height of the convex portions 170. Also, the specifications of the left-right click feeling can be changed by the elastic coefficient of the elastic member 50. Adjustment of the left-right click feeling is easy. The degree of freedom in designing the left-right click feeling is high.

  When the diameter of the sphere 52 is changed, the protruding amount of the sphere toward the contact surface side can be changed. By using the sphere 52 for the expression of the click mechanism, a change in the click feeling can be achieved simply by changing the diameter of the sphere. Therefore, it is easy to adjust the left-right click feeling.

  In the above embodiment, the housing 42 is integrally formed as a whole. The housing 42 may be a combination of separately molded members. A fixing member that does not rotate left and right together with the lever 46 and that can be engaged with the click engagement portion 56 corresponds to the housing referred to in the present application.

Various click feelings can be achieved by combining the front and rear click feeling and the left and right click feeling. Various click feelings can be set according to the purpose. Examples of the click feeling specifications that can be set are as follows.
(Click specification A) The back-and-forth click feeling differs depending on the lever left-right position.
(Click specification B) The back-and-forth click feeling differs depending on the lever front-and-rear position.
(Click specification C) The left-right click feeling differs depending on the lever left-right position.

  The click specification A can be achieved, for example, by changing the configuration of the engagement contact portion E1 according to the circumferential position. Examples of the configuration of the changeable engagement contact portion E1 include the height Hb and the number of protrusions Nb. When a plurality of protrusions are provided, the interval between these protrusions is also a configuration of the engagement contact portion E1 that can be changed.

  The click specification B can be achieved, for example, by making the heights of the convex portions 56c different in the case of having a plurality of convex portions 56c. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 11, the click specification B can be achieved by making the height of the first protrusion 56c different from the height of the second protrusion 56c.

  The click specification C can be achieved, for example, by changing the configuration of the convex portion 170 according to the circumferential position. Examples of the configuration of the changeable protrusion 170 include the height Ha and the protrusion shape.

Here, the classification of the members X, Y and Z will be described. The members constituting the lever assembly 40 can be classified into the following three types.
(1) Member X: A member that rotates in conjunction with the left-right rotation of the lever and that rotates or moves in conjunction with the front-rear rotation of the lever.
(2) Member Y: A member that rotates in conjunction with the left-right rotation of the lever, but does not move due to the front-rear rotation of the lever.
(3) Fixing member Z: a member that does not move (does not move or rotate) with respect to any operation of the lever.

  Examples of the member X include the movable valve body 60 (the upper member 86 and the lower member 88). An example of the member Y is a rotating body 44. Examples of the fixing member Z include a housing 42, a fixed valve body 62, and a base body 68.

  The back-and-forth click mechanism is not limited to the above embodiment. The back-and-forth click mechanism can be configured, for example, between members that move relative to each other as the lever rotates back and forth. Examples of the relative moving member include a combination of the member X and the fixing member Z. Preferably, a back-and-forth click mechanism is configured between the member X and the fixed member Z. For example, by providing a concave portion and / or a convex portion and a retracting mechanism between the member X and the fixing member Z, a back-and-forth click mechanism can be realized. The exit / retreat mechanism may be provided in the member X or may be provided in the fixed member Z. The concave portion and / or the convex portion may be provided in the member X or may be provided in the fixing member Z. From the viewpoint of the degree of freedom in designing the click feeling, it is preferable that the degree of freedom in design of the recesses and / or protrusions is high. From this viewpoint, it is preferable that the installation area of the concave portion and / or the convex portion is wide. From the viewpoint of the installation area, the concave portion and / or the convex portion are preferably provided in the fixing member Z, and more preferably provided in the housing 42.

  In the above-described embodiment, the click engagement portion 56 is employed as an example of the member X related to the back-and-forth click mechanism. The member X may be, for example, the movable valve body 60 (upper member 86). Further, a back-and-forth click mechanism may be configured between the movable valve body 60 (lower member 88) and the fixed valve body 62. These back-and-forth click mechanisms may be combined with a back-and-forth click mechanism configured by the engagement contact portion E1 and the click engagement portion 56.

  The left-right click mechanism can be configured between members that rotate relative to each other as the lever rotates left and right, for example. Examples of the relatively rotating member include a combination of the member Y and the fixing member Z. Preferably, a left-right click mechanism is configured between the member Y and the fixed member Z. For example, a left and right click mechanism can be realized by providing a concave portion and / or a convex portion and a retracting mechanism between the member Y and the fixing member Z. In the above embodiment, the rotating body 44 is employed as an example of the member Y related to the left-right click mechanism. In the above embodiment, the housing 42 is employed as an example of the fixing member Z related to the left-right click mechanism. In the said embodiment, the combination of an elastic body and a spherical body is employ | adopted as an example of an exit / retreat mechanism.

  When the front-rear click mechanism is constituted by the member X and the fixing member Z, the member X and the fixing member Z are preferably in direct contact with each other, but other members are interposed between the two members. May be. Similarly, in the left-right click mechanism between the member Y and the fixed member Z, it is preferable that the member Y and the fixed member Z are in direct contact with each other, but even if other members are interposed between the two members. Good.

  The feeling of clicking is perceived by a person. The click feeling can provide the user with various information that cannot be obtained visually. Preferably, the click feeling is sensed by hearing and / or tactile sense. From the viewpoint of enhancing the sensitivity, hearing and touch may be used in combination. Sound is an example of a sense of click sensed by hearing. Examples of the click feeling detected by tactile sensation include change in resistance and vibration during lever operation. The duration of the click feeling is not limited. A typical click feeling includes a resistance change and a sound for a relatively short time, but a click feeling for a relatively long time is also possible.

There are various types of information that can be obtained by clicking. The following is exemplified as this information.
[Information 1]: Information about water discharge temperature [Information 2]: Information about discharge amount [Information 3]: Information about presence / absence of hot water mixing [Information 4]: Information about lever front / rear position [Information 5]: Information about lever left / right position

Examples of the click feeling related to the information 1 include the following.
[1a]: Left-right click feeling that informs that the water discharge temperature becomes high [1b]: Left-right click feeling that informs that only water is discharged (no hot water is mixed) [1c]: Stepwise change in water discharge temperature Multiple left and right click feelings to notify [1d]: Click feeling before and after notifying that the water discharge temperature is high [1e]: Click feeling before and after notifying that only water is discharged (hot water is not mixed) [1f]: Hot water Click feeling before and after informing discharge (including hot and cold water mixing)

  The left-right click feeling 1a can contribute to, for example, suppressing unintended high-temperature water discharge. The left-right click feeling 1b can contribute to energy saving, for example. The left-right click feeling 1c can be easily set to a desired temperature, for example. The back-and-forth click feeling 1d can contribute to, for example, avoiding excessively high water discharge. The back-and-forth click feelings 1e and 1f can contribute to energy saving, for example. In the above embodiment, the back-and-forth click feeling 1f is achieved.

Examples of the click feeling related to the information 2 include the following.
[2a]: A click feeling before and after notifying that the discharge amount at which the water heater operates is reached [2b]: A plurality of click feelings before and after informing a change in discharge amount

  The back-and-forth click feeling 2a can contribute to energy saving, for example. The back-and-forth click feeling 2b can contribute to avoiding an unintended discharge amount, for example.

Examples of the click feeling related to the information 3 include the following.
[3a]: Left-right click feeling expressed at the boundary K1 [3b]: Left-right click feeling expressed near the boundary K1

  The left-right click feeling 3a can contribute to energy saving, for example. The left-right click feeling 3b can contribute to energy saving, for example. In the above embodiment, the left-right click feeling 3b is achieved.

  Examples of the vicinity of the boundary K1 in 3b include within ± 10 degrees of the boundary K1, within ± 7 degrees of the boundary K1, within ± 5 degrees of the boundary K1, within ± 3 degrees of the boundary K1, and the like.

Examples of the information related to the information 4 include the following.
[4a]: Front / rear click feeling informing that the lever front / rear position is approaching the maximum discharge position [4b]: Front / rear click feeling informing that the lever front / rear position is the maximum discharge position

  The back-and-forth click feelings 4a and 4b can contribute to alleviating the impact when the lever reaches the limit position, for example. This mitigation of impact can suppress deterioration associated with repeated use.

Examples of the information related to the information 5 include the following.
[5a]: Left-right click feeling that informs that the lever left-right position is approaching the right limit MR [5b]: Left-right click feeling that informs that the lever left-right position is approaching the left limit ML [5c]: Lever left-right position is Left-right click feeling that informs that it is the right limit MR [5d]: Left-right click feeling that informs that the lever left-right position is the left limit ML

  The back-and-forth click feelings 5a, 5b, 5c and 5d can contribute to alleviating the impact when the lever reaches the limit position, for example. This mitigation of impact can suppress deterioration associated with repeated use.

  Preferably, the click feeling differs depending on the lever front-rear position and / or lever left-right position. Due to this difference, more information can be transmitted to the user. Due to this difference, for example, one or more selected from the above information is effectively transmitted to the user. Therefore, a highly convenient hot and cold water mixing tap can be realized.

The following (A), (B), (C) and (D) are exemplified as the difference in the click feeling.
(A) The back-and-forth click feeling differs depending on the lever left-right position.
(B) The back-and-forth click feeling differs depending on the lever front-rear position.
(C) The left-right click feeling differs depending on the lever left-right position.
(D) The left-right click feeling differs depending on the lever front-rear position.

  A more preferred embodiment is at least one selected from (A), (B) and (C), or a combination of two or more.

  The aspect (A) can have various effects. This aspect (A) can give a user the information regarding water discharge temperature (mixing ratio of hot water). For example, making the back-and-forth click feeling more prominent as the mixing ratio of hot water increases helps to save energy. The operation of rotating the lever back and forth without changing the left / right position of the lever is frequently used in actual use. The aspect (A) is particularly preferable because an energy saving effect is exhibited in this high-frequency operation. Further, the water discharge temperature can be easily adjusted.

  The aspect (B) can have various effects. This aspect (B) can give the user information about the discharge amount. For example, making the back-and-forth click feeling more conspicuous as the discharge amount increases helps to save water resources and / or energy. Moreover, adjustment of the amount of water discharge can be made easy.

  The aspect (C) can have various effects. This aspect (C) can give a user the information regarding water discharge temperature (mixing ratio of hot water). For example, if the left-right click feeling becomes more prominent as the mixing ratio of hot water increases, it helps to save energy. Further, the water discharge temperature can be easily adjusted.

The following is illustrated as said aspect (A).
(A1) The back-and-forth click feeling is different between the water discharge position (100% water) and the hot water mixing discharge position (including 100% hot water).
(A2) The back-and-forth click feeling is different between the water discharge position (100% water), the hot water mixing discharge position with a high water ratio, and the hot water mixing discharge position (including 100% hot water) with a low water ratio. To do.
(A3) The back-and-forth click feeling is different between the water discharge position (water 100%), the hot water mixing discharge position (not including 100% hot water), and the hot water discharge position (hot water 100%).
(A4) Click back and forth between a water discharge position (100% water), a hot water mixing discharge position with a high water ratio, a hot water mixing discharge position with a low water ratio, and a hot water discharge position (100% hot water). The feeling is different. (A5) The back-and-forth click feeling is different between the water discharge position (water 100%), the hot water mixing discharge position with high usage frequency, and the hot water mixing discharge position (including 100% hot water) with low usage frequency. .
(A6) Water discharge position (100% water), hot water mixing discharge position with high usage frequency, hot water mixing discharge position with low usage frequency (not including 100% hot water), hot water discharge position (100% hot water) And click feeling are different.

  From the viewpoint of versatility, (A1), (A2) and (A3) are preferred. From the viewpoint of saving hot water, it is preferable to use (A1) which is simple and easy to see whether hot water is used. Further, when operability is important, (A2), (A3), (A4), (A5) and (A6) are preferable. In these (A2) to (A6), the amount of information obtained by the difference in click feeling is large, and the state of water discharge is easy to understand.

The following is illustrated as said aspect (C).
(C1) The left-right click feeling is different between the water discharge position (water 100%) and the hot water mixing discharge position (including hot water 100%).
(C2) The left-right click feeling is different between the water discharge position (water 100%), the hot water mixing discharge position with a high water ratio, and the hot water mixing discharge position (including 100% hot water) with a low water ratio. To do.
(C3) The left-right click feeling is different between the water discharge position (water 100%), the hot water mixing discharge position (not including 100% hot water), and the hot water discharge position (hot water 100%).
(C4) Left-right click between a water discharge position (water 100%), a hot water mixing discharge position with a high water ratio, a hot water mixing discharge position with a low water ratio, and a hot water discharge position (100% hot water) The feeling is different. (C5) The left-right click feeling is different between the water discharge position (water 100%), the hot water mixing discharge position with high usage frequency, and the hot water mixing discharge position (including 100% hot water) with low usage frequency. .
(C6) Water discharge position (100% water), hot water mixing discharge position with high usage frequency, hot water mixing discharge position with low usage frequency (not including 100% hot water), hot water discharge position (100% hot water) Left and right click feeling is different.

  From the viewpoint of versatility, (C1), (C2) and (C3) are preferable. From the viewpoint of saving hot water, (C1) is preferable because it is easy to understand whether hot water is used or not. In the case where operability is important, (C2), (C3), (C4), (C5) and (C6) are preferable. In these (C2) to (C6), the amount of information obtained by the difference in click feeling is large, and the state of water discharge is easy to understand.

The following (C11) may be combined with the above (C1).
(C11) A left-right click feeling appears at the boundary between the water discharge range and the hot water mixing discharge position.

The following (C21) may be combined with the above (C2).
(C21) A left-right click feeling kc1 appears at the boundary between the water discharge range and the hot water mixing / discharging range where the water ratio is high, and the boundary between the hot water mixing / discharging range where the water ratio is high and the hot water mixing / discharging range where the water ratio is low Left and right click feeling kc2 appears.

  In (C21), the left and right click feeling kc1 and the left and right click feeling kc2 may be different.

The following (C31) may be combined with the above (C3).
(C31) A left-right click feeling kc3 appears at the boundary between the water discharge range and the hot water mixing discharge range, and a left-right click feeling kc4 appears at the boundary between the hot water mixing discharge range and the hot water discharge range.

  In (C31), the left and right click feeling kc3 and the left and right click feeling kc4 may be different.

The following (C41) may be combined with the above (C4).
(C41) A left-right click feeling kc5 appears at the boundary between the water discharge range and the hot water mixed discharge range where the water ratio is high, and between the hot water mixed discharge range where the water ratio is high and the hot water mixed discharge range where the water ratio is low. A left-right click feeling kc6 appears, and a left-right click feeling kc7 appears between the hot water mixing discharge range and the hot water discharge range where the ratio of water is low.

  In (C41), at least two or all three selected from the left and right click feeling kc5, the left and right click feeling kc6, and the left and right click feeling kc7 may be different.

The following (C51) may be combined with the above (C5).
(C51) A left-right click feeling kc8 appears at the boundary between the water discharge range and the hot water mixing / discharging range where the usage frequency is high, and the left / right click feeling kc8 Click feeling kc9 appears.

  In (C51), the left and right click feeling kc8 and the left and right click feeling kc9 may be different.

The following (C61) may be combined with the above (C6).
(C61) A left-right click feeling kc10 appears at the boundary between the water discharge range and the hot water mixing / discharging range where the usage frequency is high, and left / right at the boundary between the hot water mixing / discharging range where the usage frequency is high and the hot water mixing / discharging range where the usage frequency is not high A click feeling kc11 appears and a left-right click feeling kc12 appears between the hot water mixing discharge range and the hot water discharge range, which are not frequently used.

  In (C61), at least two or all three selected from the left and right click feeling kc10, the left and right click feeling kc11, and the left and right click feeling kc12 may be different.

  In the above aspect (A), it is preferable that the lever left-right position is divided into a plurality of ranges, and the back-and-forth click feeling is different for each of these ranges. In the above (C), it is preferable that the lever left-right position is divided into a plurality of ranges, and the left-right click feeling is different for each of these ranges. Further, as shown in the above (C11), (C21), (C31), (C41), (C51), and (C61), a left-right click feeling may be expressed at the boundaries of a plurality of divided ranges. Good. This left-right click feeling at the boundary can be combined with any aspect described in the present application.

The following is illustrated as a difference in the back-and-forth click feeling in the above aspects (A) and (B).
(X1) Presence or absence of back and forth click feeling (X2) Difference in feeling of back and forth click feeling (X3) Difference in number of back and forth click feelings (X4) Difference in back and forth click feeling interval (X5) From (X1) to (X4) above 2 or more selected combinations

  From the viewpoint of emphasizing hot water saving, the difference (X1) in which the difference in the sense is remarkable is preferable. Further, when it is desired to recognize a plurality of ranges at the lever left and right positions, it is preferable to increase the information obtained by the difference in the back-and-forth click feeling according to (X5). preferable.

  Examples of the sense of back-and-forth click are tactile sensations (such as resistance) and auditory sensations (sounds). Examples of the difference (X2) include a difference in resistance and a difference in sound. The difference in sound is exemplified by the difference in sound frequency.

  The difference (X2) can be realized, for example, by making the depth of the concave portion and / or the height of the convex portion different. The difference (X3) can be realized, for example, by making the number of concave portions and / or convex portions different. The difference (X4) can be realized, for example, by making the intervals between the concave portions and / or the convex portions different. The number of times in the difference (X3) is, for example, the number of times of forward / backward click feeling in the entire range of forward / backward rotation (the aforementioned number N).

  In the embodiment of FIG. 11, the number Na of the protrusions 56 c is 5. However, the number Nk of the convex portions 56k that can get over the engagement contact portion E1 is 3. For this reason, the number N of occurrences is 3. From the viewpoint of the recognizability of the back-and-forth click feeling, the number of occurrences N is preferably 2 or more, and more preferably 3 or more. If the number of occurrences N is too large, the click interval is too small, and the recognizability of the click feeling may be reduced. In this respect, the number N of occurrences is preferably 10 or less, more preferably 8 or less, and even more preferably 7 or less. From the viewpoint of making the number of occurrences N a preferable value, the number Na of the convex portions 56c is preferably 2 or more, and more preferably 3 or more. Similarly, the number Na of the protrusions 56c is preferably 10 or less, more preferably 8 or less, and even more preferably 7 or less.

  As described above, the number of protrusions Nb of the engagement contact portion E1 may be plural. Further, the number of protrusions Nb may be changed depending on the circumferential position. From the viewpoint of arranging the number of protrusions Nb only at the optimum position, the number of protrusions Nb is preferably 1.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 11, a plurality of convex portions 56c are provided. The distance Dc from the lever axis Z1 to the tip of the convex portion 56c is equal in all the convex portions 56c. Therefore, the back-and-forth click feeling generated from each of the convex portions 56c is constant. Therefore, it is possible to set a click feeling with little discomfort. Moreover, since the elastic deformation which arises in each of the convex part 56c is constant, degradation of the convex part 56c accompanying use can be equalized. In other words, the load on the protrusions 56c can be evenly distributed to the plurality of protrusions 56c. Therefore, the durability of the click engagement portion 56 can be improved.

  On the other hand, if the distance Dc is made different for each convex portion 56c, the back-and-forth click feeling generated from each convex portion 56c can be made different. In this case, the aforementioned click specification B can be achieved.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 11, the engagement contact portion E1 is a convex portion t1. In FIG. 11, a dashed line indicates a plane Ph <b> 1 that includes the lever axis Z <b> 1 and is perpendicular to the central axis of the housing 42. In a normal use state, the plane Ph1 is horizontal. The engagement contact portion E1 is disposed at a position that intersects with the plane Ph1. With this arrangement, the distance between the engagement contact portion E1 and the lever axis Z1 can be reduced. Therefore, the engagement contact portion E1 can be reduced in size. In addition, the engagement contact portion E1 and the click engagement portion 56 can be reliably engaged without being interfered with by other portions.

  In the above embodiment, the click engagement portion 56 is provided on the lever 46. For this reason, the space for providing the back-and-forth click mechanism is suppressed. Further, a simple click structure realizes a back-and-forth click mechanism with excellent productivity and reliability.

  In FIG. 6, a dashed line indicates a plane Ph <b> 2 that includes the lever axis Z <b> 1 and passes through the center of gravity of the click engagement portion 56. The click engagement portion 56 is symmetric with respect to the plane Ph2. The plurality of convex portions 56c are arranged symmetrically with respect to the plane Ph2. Due to these symmetries, a plurality of and even click feelings can be obtained. These symmetries contribute to the realization of a compact click mechanism.

  In the above embodiment, the click engagement portion 56 is provided on the rear surface of the lever 46. When the click engagement portion 56 is provided on the side surface 53 (see FIG. 8) of the lever 46, the click engagement portion 56 is interposed between the side surface 53 and the lever insertion hole 106. In this case, it becomes difficult for the lever insertion hole 106 to hold the lever 46 in a pivotable and reliable manner. Therefore, the accuracy of the lever back-and-forth rotation tends to decrease due to the rattling of the lever 46 and the like. Due to this decrease in accuracy, the engagement of the front and rear click mechanisms may vary. From the viewpoint of increasing the accuracy of lever back-and-forth rotation, the click engagement portion is preferably disposed on the front surface and / or rear surface of the lever. With this arrangement, a back-and-forth click mechanism with a compact and simple structure can be realized.

  In the above embodiment, the click engaging portion 56 is provided with a hollow portion. Since the rigidity can be adjusted by the hollow portion, the degree of elastic deformation can be adjusted by the hollow portion. Therefore, the freedom of material selection is expanded. The hollow portion can also contribute to weight reduction of the click engagement portion 56.

  The lever 46 is connected to the handle 14. The vibration from the lever 46 is easily transmitted to the user. Since the click engaging portion 56 is attached to the lever 46, the back-and-forth click feeling is easily transmitted to the user.

  In the click engagement, bending deformation occurs in the convex portion 56c (see FIG. 11). The direction of this bending deformation is along the direction of forward and backward rotation of the lever 46. Vibration caused by the bending deformation of the convex portion 56 c is likely to occur in the direction of the lever 46 rotating forward and backward. Since the lever 46 is in a state in which it can be rotated back and forth, it is easy to transmit vibration along the back-and-forth rotation. For this reason, the vibration resulting from the bending deformation of the convex portion 56c is easily transmitted to the user.

  As described above, the direction of bending deformation of the convex portion 56 c is along the direction of forward and backward rotation of the lever 46. Vibration caused by the bending deformation of the click engagement portion 56 is unlikely to occur in a direction perpendicular to the lever axis Z1. Therefore, the load on the lever shaft 48 due to this vibration is small. Since deterioration of the lever shaft 48 due to use is suppressed, the accuracy of the lever 46 can be maintained for a long period of time. Therefore, the back-and-forth click mechanism can be stably maintained.

  In the above embodiment, the back-and-forth click mechanism has a simple structure, and there are few inclusions. Therefore, variation in the click feeling due to the dimensional error of the member and the assembly error can be suppressed. Further, as described above, in the above-described embodiment, the degree of freedom for setting the click feeling is high.

  In the said embodiment, the click engagement part 56 is detachable. Therefore, by removing the click engagement portion 56, the back-and-forth click feeling can be eliminated. For example, a product having a back-and-forth click feeling and a product having no back-and-forth click feeling can be manufactured only by the presence or absence of the click engagement portion 56. This can contribute to the sharing of parts.

  The click engagement portion 56 rotates about the lever axis Z1. Accordingly, the distance between the engaging portion (the convex portion 56c) of the click engaging portion 56 and the lever axis Z1 does not change. The lever 46 rotates with respect to the housing 42 but does not move with respect to the housing 42. The distance between the inner surface of the housing 42 and the lever axis Z1 does not change substantially. Therefore, the degree of engagement can be made constant regardless of whether the lever 46 is turned left and right or back and forth. Therefore, a certain back-and-forth click feeling can be obtained.

  FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly 400 according to the second embodiment. In the lever assembly 400, the click engagement portion 56 is provided on the rear surface 470 and the front surface 472 of the lever 460. The housing 420 has a first engagement contact portion E11 that can be engaged with the click engagement portion 56 provided on the rear surface 470, and a second engagement that can be engaged with the click engagement portion 56 provided on the front surface 472. And an engagement contact portion E12. The engagement contact portion E11 and the engagement contact portion E12 have different circumferential positions. In the lever assembly 400, a click feeling can be generated between the first engagement contact portion E11 and the second engagement contact portion E12. Therefore, it is possible to diversify the click feeling. You may make the timing of the click feeling resulting from the engagement contact part E11 different from the timing of the click feeling based on the engagement contact part E12. You may make the timing of the click feeling resulting from the engagement contact part E11 correspond with the timing of the click feeling based on the engagement contact part E12. In the present embodiment, the generation of the click feeling can be shared by the plurality of engagement contact portions E1, and the burden on the engagement contact portion E1 can be reduced.

  FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly 402 according to the third embodiment. In the lever assembly 402, a click engagement portion 562 is provided on the rear surface of the lever 462. The click engagement portion 562 is integrally formed with the lever 462. The click engagement part 562 includes a convex part forming part tk3, a cavity part v3, and a connection part s3. Plural (five) convex portions t3 are provided in the convex portion forming portion tk3. The connection part s3 connects the convex part forming part tk3 and the lever 462. In the click engagement, elastic deformation occurs in the convex part t3 and the convex part forming part tk3. That is, the convex part t3 and the convex part forming part tk3 are elastically deforming parts. Due to the elastic deformation of the convex portion forming part tk3, the elastic deformation amount of the convex portion t3 is suppressed. Therefore, the durability of the click engagement portion 562 is enhanced.

  FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly 404 according to the fourth embodiment. In the lever assembly 404, a click engagement portion 564 is provided on the rear surface of the lever 464. The click engagement portion 564 is separate from the lever 464 and is attached to the lever 464 in the same manner as the click engagement portion 56 described above. The click engagement portion 564 has a base portion 564a and a convex portion 564c. There are a plurality of convex portions 564c. The three convex portions 564c closer to the center are convex portions 564k that can get over the engagement contact portion E1. There are a plurality of convex portions 564k. In the click engagement, elastic deformation occurs in the convex portion 564k. This elastic deformation is a bending deformation. Unlike the click engagement portion 56, the click engagement portion 564 is solid. The convex portion 56c described above includes a hollow portion, but the convex portion 564c is solid. The solid convex portion 564c is excellent in durability.

  FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly 406 according to the fifth embodiment. In the lever assembly 406, a click engagement portion 566 is provided on the rear surface of the lever 466. The click engagement portion 566 includes a leaf spring 566a and a retracting member 566b. An uneven portion 566c is provided at the tip of the withdrawing / retracting member 566b. The uneven portion 566c engages with the engagement contact portion E1. By this engagement, the leaf spring 566a is deformed, and the retracting member 566b moves in the retracting direction or the protruding direction. As the lever 466 rotates back and forth, the engagement contact portion E1 is alternately engaged with the convex portion and the concave portion of the concave and convex portion 566c. A click feeling is generated by these engagements.

  FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly 408 according to the sixth embodiment. In the lever assembly 408, a click engagement portion 568 is provided on the rear surface of the lever 468. The click engagement portion 568 includes a coil spring 568a and a retracting member 568b. A convex portion 568c is provided at the tip of the retracting member 568b. The retracting member 568b is provided with a housing recess 568d. The convex portion 568c engages with the engagement contact portion E1. The lever 468 is provided with a slide hole 468a. One end of the coil spring 568a is housed in the housing recess 568d. The retracting member 568b slides inside the slide hole 468a. The coil spring 568a biases the retracting member 568b in the protruding direction. The coil spring 568a is compressed and deformed by the engagement between the engagement contact portion E1 and the convex portion 568c. A click feeling is generated by engagement and disengagement with the engagement contact portion E1.

  In the present embodiment, a first engagement contact portion E21 and a second engagement contact portion E22 are provided as the engagement contact portion E1. The circumferential position of the first engagement contact portion E21 is the same as the circumferential position of the second engagement contact portion E22. The number of protrusions Nb described above is 2. Therefore, the number Na of the convex portions 568 is 1, but the number N of occurrences is 2.

  As illustrated in these embodiments, various back-and-forth click mechanisms are possible.

  In the click engagement part 56 (FIG. 11) according to the first embodiment, the convex part 56c is an elastic deformation part. In the click engagement portion 56 (FIG. 28) according to the second embodiment, the convex portion 56c is an elastic deformation portion. In the click engagement part 562 (FIG. 29) according to the third embodiment, the convex part t3 and the convex part forming part tk3 are elastically deforming parts. In the click engagement part 564 (FIG. 30) according to the fourth embodiment, the convex part 564c is an elastic deformation part. In the click engagement part 566 (FIG. 31) according to the fifth embodiment, the leaf spring 566a is an elastic deformation part. In the click engagement part 568 (FIG. 32) according to the sixth embodiment, the coil spring 568a is an elastic deformation part. In the click engagement, elastic deformation and deformation recovery occur in these elastic deformation portions. With this elastic deformation and / or deformation recovery, a click feeling is generated. Each elastic deformation part of these embodiment should just be an elastic body, and is not limited to the structure of the said specific example.

  In the fifth and sixth embodiments, the click engagement portion has a retracting mechanism. In the click engagement, the protrusion / retraction mechanism is protruded and retracted. By this protrusion and retraction, click engagement with engagement and disengagement is possible. On the other hand, in the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments, the elastic deformation is bending deformation, and click engagement with engagement and disengagement is enabled by this bending deformation. . As long as a click feeling is produced, the mode of engagement is not limited. Further, the click engagement is not limited to the engagement between the convex portions, and for example, the engagement between the convex portions and the concave portions may be used.

  FIG. 33A and FIG. 33B are modifications of the engagement contact portion E1.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 33A, the housing 421 is provided with a recess 421a. A spherical body b1 is disposed in the recess 421a. A part of the sphere b1 protrudes from the inner surface 421b of the housing 421. The shape of the recess 421a corresponds to the sphere b1. The sphere b1 is held in a rotatable state in the recess 421a. In this embodiment, since the sphere b1 can be rotated, the friction of the click engagement portion in the click engagement can be reduced. Therefore, the deterioration of the click mechanism accompanying use is suppressed.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 33B, the housing 423 is provided with a recess 423a. The elastic body sp1 is accommodated in the recess 423a. The elastic body sp1 is a coil spring. A spherical body b2 is disposed at one end of the coil spring sp1. The spherical body b2 and the coil spring sp1 constitute an exit / retreat mechanism. The sphere b2 is held by the coil spring sp1 and the recess 423a in a rotatable state. In the present embodiment, the engagement contact portion E1 has a retracting mechanism.

  Thus, the engagement contact part E1 may have an elastic deformation part. With this elastic deformation portion, the amount of elastic deformation of the click engagement portion can be reduced, and deterioration of the click mechanism accompanying use is suppressed. Further, the elastic deformation at the click engagement portion may be unnecessary. Therefore, the degree of freedom in designing the click engagement portion can be improved.

  From the viewpoint of obtaining a clear left-right click feeling, the height Ha of the convex portion 170 (see FIG. 16 and the like) is preferably 0.05 mm or more, more preferably 0.1 mm or more, and further preferably 0.15 mm or more. When the height Ha is excessive, the thickness of the housing 42 or the rotating body 44 becomes too thin, and the durability can be lowered. In this respect, the height Ha is preferably equal to or less than 1.0 mm, more preferably equal to or less than 0.5 mm, and still more preferably equal to or less than 0.4 mm. In the said embodiment, height Ha of the convex part 170 was 0.4 mm.

  From the viewpoint of obtaining a clear back-and-forth click feeling, the height Hb (see FIG. 11) of the engagement contact portion E1 is preferably 0.05 mm or more, more preferably 0.1 mm or more, and further preferably 0.15 mm or more. When the height Hb is excessive, the thickness of the housing 42 or the rotating body 44 becomes too thin, and the durability can be lowered. In this respect, the height Hb is preferably equal to or less than 1.0 mm, more preferably equal to or less than 0.5 mm, and still more preferably equal to or less than 0.4 mm. In the above embodiment, the height Hb of the engagement contact portion E1 is 0.4 mm.

  From the viewpoint of ease of assembly and the viewpoint of obtaining a clear left-right click feeling, the diameter Pa of the sphere 52 is preferably 1.0 mm or more, more preferably 1.5 mm or more, and further preferably 2.0 mm or more. When the diameter Pa is excessive, the diameter of the lever shaft 48 may be excessive or the lever assembly 40 may be excessively enlarged. Moreover, in order to avoid this enlargement, the housing 42 and the like can be excessively thinned. From these viewpoints, the diameter Pa is preferably 5.0 mm or less, and more preferably 4.0 mm or less. In the above embodiment, the diameter Pa of the sphere 52 is set to 3.0 mm.

  Resin and metal are illustrated as a material of a click engagement part. This resin includes a fiber reinforced resin. Resin is preferable from the viewpoint of elasticity. Resin is also preferable from the viewpoint of elasticity when the click engagement portion is hollow. A polyacetal resin (POM) is more preferable from the viewpoints of touch feeling and durability upon clicking. In the above embodiment, POM is used.

  Resin and metal are illustrated as a material of a housing. This resin includes a fiber reinforced resin. From the viewpoint of durability, rust resistance, and hygiene, a fiber reinforced resin is preferable, and a glass fiber reinforced resin is more preferable. Moreover, the engagement contact part E1 can also be made into another member among housings. The sound (click sound) generated by the click mechanism is preferably comfortable and easy to hear. The material of the engagement contact portion E1 affects the click sound. From the viewpoint of obtaining a good click sound and from the viewpoint of durability, the material of the engagement contact portion E1 is preferably stainless steel, and more preferably spring stainless steel. In the said embodiment, the housing was made into the integral member integrally molded including the engagement contact part E1, and the material of this integral member was made into glass fiber reinforced resin.

  Resin and metal are illustrated as a material of a rotating body. This resin includes a fiber reinforced resin. An unpleasant sound may be generated if metals slide during lever operation. In addition, since the material of the sliding surface fluctuates the frictional force, it affects the operability of the lever. From the viewpoint of operability and avoidance of unpleasant noise, the material of the rotating body is preferably a resin, and more preferably a resin that does not contain reinforcing fibers. In the above embodiment, a POM that does not include reinforcing fibers is used.

  Examples of the material of the shaft holder include resin and metal. This resin includes a fiber reinforced resin. An unpleasant sound may be generated if metals slide during lever operation. In addition, since the material of the sliding surface fluctuates the frictional force, it affects the operability of the lever. From the viewpoints of operability and avoidance of unpleasant noise, the material of the shaft holder is preferably a resin, and more preferably a resin that does not contain reinforcing fibers. In the above embodiment, a POM resin not containing reinforcing fibers was used.

  Examples of the material of the sphere include resin and metal. From the viewpoint of the sound and durability of the click mechanism, metal is particularly preferable. In the above embodiment, a stainless alloy is used.

  Examples of the elastic body used in the left-right click mechanism include rubber and a coil spring. A coil spring is preferable from the viewpoint of suppressing deterioration due to repeated use and from the viewpoint of freedom in adjusting the click feeling. As a material of this coil spring, a spring steel material is preferable. In the above embodiment, a coil spring made of spring steel is used.

  Examples of the material of the lever shaft include resin and metal. This resin includes a fiber reinforced resin. From the viewpoint of suppressing water corrosion, stainless steel alloys and resins are preferred. In the above embodiment, a stainless alloy is used.

  Resin and metal are illustrated as a material of the upper member of a movable valve body. This resin includes a fiber reinforced resin. An unpleasant sound may be generated if metals slide during lever operation. From the viewpoint of avoiding unpleasant noise, the upper member is preferably made of resin. Moreover, the manufacturing cost as the whole movable valve body is suppressed by using this upper member as resin. In the above embodiment, a POM resin not containing reinforcing fibers was used.

  Examples of the material of the lower member of the movable valve body include resin (including fiber reinforced resin), metal, and ceramic. From the viewpoint of wear resistance in sliding with the fixed valve body, ceramic is preferable. This ceramic is also preferable from the viewpoints of corrosiveness to water, strength and durability. In the above embodiment, ceramic is used.

  Examples of the material of the fixed valve body include resin (including fiber reinforced resin), metal, and ceramic. From the viewpoint of wear resistance in sliding with the movable valve body (lower member), ceramic is preferable. This ceramic is also preferable from the viewpoints of corrosiveness to water, strength and durability. In the above embodiment, ceramic is used.

  Examples of the material of the packing and the O-ring include a resin and a rubber material (vulcanized rubber). The stretchability improves the assemblability and can reduce manufacturing errors (such as dimensional errors). From these viewpoints, a rubber material is preferable. In the above embodiment, a rubber material is used.

  The present application also describes other inventions that are not included in the claimed invention (including independent claims). Respective forms, members, configurations, and combinations thereof described in the claims and embodiments of the present application are recognized as inventions based on the respective functions and effects.

  Each form, member, configuration, etc. shown in each of the above embodiments is not limited to all of the forms, members, or configurations of these embodiments. It can be applied to all described inventions.

  The present invention can be applied to a hot and cold water mixing tap for any application.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Hot water mixing tap 12 ... Mixing stopper main body 14 ... Handle 16 ... Discharge part 18 ... Hot water introduction pipe 20 ... Water introduction pipe 22 ... Discharge pipe 40 ... Lever Assembly 42 ... Housing 44 ... Rotating body 46 ... Lever 47 ... Rear rear face 48 ... Lever shaft 50 ... Left and right click elastic member 52 ... Left and right click sphere 54 ··· Shaft holder 56 ··· Click engaging portion 60 ··· movable valve body 62 ··· fixed valve body 64 and 65 ··· packing 68 ··· base body 80 · · · valve hole for hot water 80L · · · .. Upper surface opening line of hot water valve hole 82 ... Water valve hole 82L ... Upper surface opening line of water valve hole 84 ... Mixed water valve hole 84L ... Upper surface of mixed water valve hole Opening line 86 ... Upper member of movable valve element 88 ... Lower member of movable valve element 94 ... Flow Forming recess 98 ... Lever engaging recess 100 ... Lever shaft hole 106 ... Lever insertion hole 108 ... Rotating body shaft hole 170 ... Projection E1 ... Engagement contact portion Z1 ... Lever axis PL1 ... Smooth surface on the upper surface of the fixed valve body PL2 ... Smooth surface on the lower surface of the movable valve body W1 ... First wall surface portion W2 ... Second wall surface portion W3 ... First 3 wall surface part W4 ... 4th wall surface part SL1 ... inclined surface of 1st wall surface part SL2 ... inclined surface of 2nd wall surface part SL3 ... inclined surface of 3rd wall surface part SL4 ... 4th ST ... Straight part X ... Area surrounded by upper surface opening line of hot water valve hole Y ... Area surrounded by upper surface opening line of water valve hole Z ... Area surrounded by lower surface opening line of flow path forming recess XZ ... Overlapping area of area X and area Z YZ ... Area Y and area Z Back-and-forth rotation direction of the lever in a plan view as viewed from the straight direction D2 · · · upper movement region D1 · · · movable valve body becomes

Claims (6)

A mixing stopper body;
A housing provided inside the mixing plug body;
A fixed valve body provided in the housing, having a hot water valve hole, a water valve hole and a discharge valve hole;
A movable valve body that is slidably disposed on the upper surface of the fixed valve body and has a flow path forming recess and a lever engagement hole;
A lever that can be rotated back and forth around the lever axis;
A click engaging portion provided on the lever;
An engagement contact portion provided on the inner surface of the housing;
A rotating body that supports the lever so as to be able to rotate back and forth;
With
The movable valve body pivots with respect to the fixed valve body by the left-right rotation of the lever, and the hot water mixing ratio can be adjusted by the pivoting of the movable valve body,
By moving the lever back and forth, the movable valve body moves relative to the fixed valve body, and by this movement, the discharge amount can be adjusted.
As the lever rotates back and forth, the click engagement portion rotates about the lever axis,
By the rotation of the click engagement portion, click engagement occurs between the click engagement portion and the engagement contact portion,
A hot and cold water mixing tap that can cause a back-and-forth click feeling due to this click engagement. The click engagement part has an elastic deformation part,
The hot and cold water mixing plug according to claim 1, wherein in the click engagement, elastic deformation and deformation recovery occur in the elastic deformation portion.   The hot and cold water mixing tap according to claim 2, wherein the elastic deformation includes bending deformation.   The hot and cold water mixing plug according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the click engagement portion is a separate member from the lever.   The hot and cold water mixing plug according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the click engagement portion is disposed on a front surface and / or a rear surface of the lever. The click engagement part has a retracting mechanism,
The hot and cold water mixing tap according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein in the click engagement, the protruding and retracting mechanism is protruded and retracted.

Images