JP2021023911A - Water supply apparatus and water supply apparatus management system - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a water supply apparatus management system that encourages a user to replace a water purification cartridge and maintain the functionality of a water supply apparatus by making the user aware that failure to properly replace the water purification cartridge required for the water supply apparatus may result in disadvantages to the user.SOLUTION: A water supply apparatus management system is configured to: allow a management server 90 to collect and record water usage information such as the amount of water flowing into a water purification cartridge obtained by a water supply unit 10; determine whether or not the water purification cartridge is used properly based on the information obtained by the management server 90; and if the management server 90 discriminates improper use of the water purification cartridge, send restriction information to the water supply unit 10 so as to cause the water supply unit 10 to execute supply restriction of treated water. This makes a user aware of the fact that treated water may become unusable due to improper use of the water purification cartridge and encourages the user to replace the water purification cartridge.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a water supply device for supplying treated water, a water supply device and a management system thereof, which encourages a user of the water supply device to properly use the water supply device by periodically replacing a water purification cartridge.

Water purifiers that remove harmful substances from the supplied tap water and well water to obtain water suitable for drinking, and alkaline water that can be used as drinking water by purifying tap water and then electrolyzing it. In water supply devices such as ion water conditioners that generate acidic water that can be used for non-drinking purposes such as wash water, it is necessary to replace the water purification cartridge that deteriorates with use.

When the water supply device reaches a state where the water purification cartridge should be replaced so that the user of the water supply device can replace the water purification cartridge at an appropriate time, the water supply device automatically orders the water purification cartridge. Conventionally, a system has been proposed in which a server device that performs processing and acquires this order information accepts an order for a water purification cartridge and delivers the water purification cartridge to a user of the water supply device. As an example of an automatic ordering system for a water purification cartridge in such a conventional water supply device, there is one disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-30831.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2019-30831

The conventional automatic ordering system for water purification cartridges has the configuration shown in the above patent document, and a microcomputer acquires a signal corresponding to the flow rate of purified water flowing into the cartridge and purifies water, which is output from the flow rate sensor of the water purifier. The flow rate of the above is calculated, and whether or not the integrated value obtained by integrating the calculated flow rates exceeds a predetermined threshold is compared and determined. If the integrated value exceeds the threshold, it is determined that the time to replace the cartridge has arrived. The cartridge was automatically ordered.

In the order processing, the order information generated by the control unit of the water purifier is transmitted to the EC site via the network. The EC server device that provides the service of the EC site acquires this ordering information, processes the order, and the cartridge automatically ordered by the water purifier is delivered to the shipping address set by the user.

In the conventional automatic ordering system described in the above patent document, the cartridge ordering process is automatically performed, and the user can obtain a new cartridge at an appropriate time when the cartridge should be replaced, but the user is a water purifier. Since it is not always the case that the work of replacing the cartridge of the water purifier with a new one obtained is performed, the user does not have to replace the cartridge of the water purifier with the new one obtained, even if the time to replace it has passed. It is possible that the cartridge will continue to be used. In that case, the user will not be properly purified and will be in a state of drinking unclean water, but since the system provider and cartridge seller cannot prohibit the user from drinking such water, the user is clean. There was a problem that he could fall into an unhealthy state by continuing to drink unhealthy water.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and the user is aware that if the water purification cartridge required for continuous use of the water supply device is not properly replaced, it will lead to a disadvantage for the user. It is an object of the present invention to provide a water supply device and a management system for the water supply device, which can encourage the user to replace the water purification cartridge and maintain the treated water supply function of the water supply device.

The water supply device according to the disclosure of the present invention is a water supply device that supplies treated water obtained by subjecting raw water to a predetermined treatment, and includes, at least, a replaceable water purification cartridge that purifies the passing raw water. It is provided with a flow rate measuring means capable of measuring the amount of water that has passed through the water purification cartridge and a notification means capable of executing a predetermined notification regarding the state of the water supply device to the user, and is obtained based on the measurement by the flow measuring means. Based on the water usage information including at least the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge, it is determined whether or not the water purification cartridge is in an appropriate usage state, and if it is determined that the water purification cartridge is not in an appropriate usage state, the supply of treated water is restricted. It shifts from the normal state, which can be done without any problems, to the emergency state, which imposes a predetermined limit on the supply of treated water, and also executes a predetermined notification indicating to the user that the water purification cartridge is in an inappropriate use state.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, whether or not the water purification cartridge is properly used is determined based on the water usage information such as the amount of water flowing through the water purification cartridge acquired when the user uses the water supply device. Judging that it is time to replace the water purification cartridge, but if it is determined that the water purification cartridge is in an inappropriate state of use, such as being used continuously without being replaced, the supply of treated water in the water supply device should be restricted. As a result, the user is made aware that the treated water cannot be used due to improper use of the water purification cartridge, and the water purification cartridge is replaced with a new one in order to return to the normal state where the treated water supply function can be used without limitation. The user will be strongly aware of the need for proper use such as replacement, and the user will be encouraged to purchase and replace the water purification cartridge, and the user can expect regular purchase of the water purification cartridge.

Further, the water supply device management system according to the disclosure of the present invention is connected to a water supply device that supplies treated water obtained by subjecting raw water to a predetermined treatment and a predetermined network, and the water is connected via the network. It is equipped with a management server that can execute a service that acquires various information related to water supply in the water supply device and records and stores the obtained information for each water supply device, and the water supply device is provided with respect to the raw water passing through. Communication between a replaceable water purification cartridge to be purified, a flow rate measuring means capable of measuring at least the amount of water passing through the water purification cartridge, and the management server via the network, or connection to the network to transmit and receive data. It has a communication means capable of communicating with a communication terminal which is possible, and a notification means capable of executing a predetermined notification regarding the state of the water supply device to the user, and the flow measurement means can be used. The water usage information including at least the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge obtained based on the measurement is transmitted to the management server by the communication means, and the management server receives the water usage information via the network. However, for each water supply device, it is determined whether or not the water purification cartridge of the water supply device is in the proper usage state based on the water usage information, and if it is determined that it is not in the proper usage state, the water of the corresponding water supply device is used. When the regulation information related to the supply is transmitted to the water supply device and the water supply device receives the regulation information from the management server, the supply of treated water is limited from the normal state in which the supply of treated water can be performed without limitation. In addition to shifting to an emergency state, a predetermined notification is executed to indicate to the user that the water purification cartridge is in an improper use state.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, when the user uses the water supply device, the management server collects and records water usage information such as the amount of water flowing through the water purification cartridge acquired by the water supply device for each treatment water used. However, the management server determines whether or not the water purification cartridge is being used properly based on the information obtained for each water supply device, and it is time to replace the water purification cartridge in the water supply device, but it is not replaced. When the management server determines that the water is in an inappropriate state of use, such as when it is continuously used as it is, the management server sends regulation information to the water supply device and causes the water supply device to execute the supply restriction of treated water. In order to make the user aware that the treated water cannot be used due to improper use of the water purification cartridge in the water supply device, and to return to the normal state where the treated water supply function can be used without limitation, water The user will be strongly aware of the necessity of proper use such as replacing the water purification cartridge of the supply device with a new one, urging the user to purchase and replace the water purification cartridge, and purchasing the water purification cartridge regularly. The number of users can be expected to increase.

In addition, by maintaining the function of the water supply device by replacing the water purification cartridge, we will ensure the use of purified clean water, such as drinking, and make efforts to maintain health by using the user's water supply device. Can support appropriately.

Further, in the water supply device management system according to the disclosure of the present invention, if necessary, the management server registers a predetermined communication terminal used by the user of the water supply device in advance, and connects the communication terminal and the network. The water purification cartridge of the water supply device is inappropriate for the communication terminal corresponding to the user of the water supply device while the management server transmits the regulation information to the water supply device. It transmits information for causing the communication terminal to notify that the treated water supply is restricted because it is in use.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, the communication terminal of the user of the water supply device and the management server can communicate with each other, and the supply of treated water by the water supply device is restricted. The treated water supply is restricted due to not replacing the water purification cartridge by being notified that the water purification cartridge of the supply device is in an improper use condition and that the treated water supply is restricted. Can be correctly understood by the user based on the notification, and the user is more motivated to replace the water purification cartridge in order to lift the restriction on the water supply, and the user obtains and replaces the water purification cartridge. Encourage them to do it promptly.

Further, in the water supply device management system according to the disclosure of the present invention, if necessary, the management server supplies water to the communication terminal corresponding to the user of the water supply device by exchanging a water purification cartridge by the user. Information for causing the communication terminal to execute the notification that the restriction on the water supply of the treated water is released in the above is further transmitted.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, the communication terminal notifies the user that the restriction on water supply is released when the water purification cartridge of the water supply device is replaced, so that the user can replace the water purification cartridge to supply treated water. It is possible to clearly understand that it will lead to the lifting of restrictions on water purification cartridges, strongly encourage users to obtain and replace water purification cartridges, and increase the rate of actual users' acquisition and replacement of water purification cartridges. ..

Further, in the water supply device management system according to the disclosure of the present invention, the management server can release the restriction of the treated water supply by the water supply device by purchasing a new water purification cartridge by the user, if necessary. Information for causing the communication terminal to execute the notification and for causing the communication terminal to provide a user interface for input related to the purchase of the water purification cartridge of the user is transmitted to the communication terminal, and further, the management server However, the communication terminal that has received the input to purchase the water purification cartridge by the user is made to send the information indicating the execution of the purchase of the water purification cartridge by the user to the management server, and when the information is received, the emergency state is started. The deregulation information for causing the water supply device to perform the return to the normal state for at least a predetermined period is transmitted to the water supply device.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, it is notified that the restriction on water supply can be lifted by purchasing a water purification cartridge of a water supply device from a communication terminal, and a situation is given in which a water purification cartridge can be purchased from a communication terminal. If you purchase a water purification cartridge from the terminal, the water supply device can be returned from the emergency state to the normal state by sending the regulation release information from the management server, and the water supply restriction will be lifted when you purchase the water purification cartridge. The user who received the notification correctly understands that, and at the same time, the user has a strong motivation to promptly proceed with the purchase procedure using the situation where the cartridge purchase procedure can be performed from the communication terminal and lift the restricted state of water supply. It can be given to, and the purchase of the water purification cartridge by the user can be further promoted.

Further, in the water supply device management system according to the disclosure of the present invention, the management server acquires the cumulative water flow amount from the previous replacement of the water purification cartridge for each water supply device based on the water usage information, if necessary. The state in which the cumulative water flow rate does not exceed the predetermined upper limit value of the water flow rate set in advance corresponding to the usage limit of the water purification cartridge is treated as an appropriate usage state of the water purification cartridge. When the management server determines whether or not the integrated water flow amount exceeds the predetermined upper limit value and determines that the integrated water flow amount exceeds the predetermined upper limit value and the water purification cartridge is not in an appropriate usage state, the regulation information is displayed. It is transmitted to the water supply device.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, the management server acquires the cumulative water flow rate from the previous replacement of the water purification cartridge based on the water usage information, and when the cumulative water flow rate exceeds the upper limit value based on the usage limit, the water purification cartridge By certifying that the water supply is in an inappropriate state of use, it is possible to easily estimate the state in which the cartridge has reached the usage limit and shift the water supply device to an emergency state in which the water supply is restricted, and the water purification cartridge is almost at the usage limit. By encouraging replacement when it reaches, the water purification cartridge can be used effectively and then replaced, and the water purification cartridge is wasted when the water purification function remains, or the water purification function is completely lost and healthy. It is urged to avoid replacing the water purification cartridge in situations that affect the situation, and it is possible to prevent the situation of drinking water that affects the health.

Further, in the water supply device management system according to the disclosure of the present invention, the management server acquires and monitors the amount of water flowing through the water purification cartridge of the water supply device per unit time as necessary, and monitors the unit time. The state in which the water flow rate per unit time does not fall below the predetermined lower limit value of the water flow rate per unit time set in accordance with the usage limit of the water purification cartridge is treated as an appropriate usage state of the water purification cartridge, and the management server Determines whether or not the water flow rate per unit time is below the predetermined lower limit value, and determines that the water flow rate per unit time is lower than the predetermined lower limit value and the water purification cartridge is not in an appropriate usage state. Information is transmitted to the water supply device.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, the management server acquires the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge based on the water usage information per unit time, and when the amount of water flowing per unit time falls below the lower limit corresponding to the usage limit, the water is purified. By recognizing the improper use state of the cartridge, it is possible to more accurately estimate the state where the water purification cartridge has reached the usage limit based on the property that changes in response to the deterioration state, and limit the water supply to the water supply device. The water purification cartridge can be replaced after it has been effectively used by prompting the replacement when the water purification cartridge has almost reached the usage limit, and the replacement is performed when the water purification function remains. It is designed to avoid wasting the water purification cartridge or replacing the water purification cartridge in a situation where the water purification function is completely lost and the water purification cartridge is affected, so that the situation of drinking water that affects the health can be prevented.

Further, the water supply device management system according to the disclosure of the present invention has, if necessary, a recording medium in which the water supply device records subscriber identification information corresponding to the user of the water supply device in advance. Each time the user of the water supply device purchases a water purification cartridge, the management server provides subscriber identification information of the recording medium for a period corresponding to the usable period until the usage limit of the water purification cartridge is reached. The water supply device is made capable of communicating with the management server while the subscriber identification information of the recording medium is valid, while the subscriber identification information is no longer valid. , A transition from a normal state where the supply of treated water can be performed without restrictions to an emergency state where a predetermined limit is applied to the supply of treated water, and a predetermined notification indicating to the user that the water purification cartridge is in an improper use state. It is what you do.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, the water supply device is provided with a recording medium on which the subscriber identification information is recorded, and the subscriber identification information of the recording medium is registered in advance to associate the user of the water supply device with the water supply device. What is done is that the water supply device communicates based on the validity of the subscriber identification information of this recording medium, while the subscriber identification information of this recording medium corresponds to the usable period of the water purification cartridge. When the validity period is given, the validity period of this subscriber identification information expires, and the usage limit of the water purification cartridge is reached, communication between the water supply device and the management server is also stopped, so that the water treatment device When the water purification cartridge of the above exceeds the usage limit and becomes inappropriately used, the water supply device performs necessary treatments such as limiting the supply of treated water and notifying the user to that effect. Communication can be properly managed to prevent the occurrence of unnecessary communication, the burden of communication costs can be suppressed, and the communication volume of the management server can be reduced to improve the efficiency of communication processing.

Further, in the water supply device management system according to the disclosure of the present invention, if necessary, the water purification cartridge of the water supply device may record a recording medium in which subscriber identification information corresponding to the user of the water supply device is recorded in advance. The recording medium is integrally held, and the valid period of the subscriber identification information is set to a period corresponding to the usable period until the usage limit of the water purification cartridge is reached, and the water supply device performs the recording. While it is possible to communicate with the management server while the subscriber identification information of the medium is valid, when the subscriber identification information is no longer valid, the treatment water can be supplied from the normal state where the treatment water can be supplied without limitation. In addition to shifting to an emergency state in which a predetermined restriction is applied, a predetermined notification is executed to indicate to the user that the water purification cartridge is in an improper use state.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, the water purification cartridge of the water supply device is integrally provided with a recording medium on which the subscriber identification information is recorded, and the subscriber identification information of this recording medium corresponds to the usable period of the water purification cartridge. Given the validity period, the water supply device communicates based on the validity of the subscriber identification information of this recording medium, and when the usage limit of the water purification cartridge is reached, the subscriber identification information is displayed. If the water purification cartridge of the water treatment device exceeds the usage limit and becomes inappropriately used due to the expiration of the validity period and the communication between the water supply device and the management server being stopped, the supply of treated water is restricted. While performing necessary processing such as notifying the user of the addition as well, the communication in the water supply device is properly managed to prevent the occurrence of unnecessary communication, and the burden of communication cost can be suppressed. At the same time, the communication volume of the management server can be reduced and the efficiency of communication processing can be improved.

It is a block diagram of the water supply apparatus management system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 5 is a schematic configuration perspective view of a water supply device used in the water supply device management system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic block diagram of the water treatment system of the water supply device in the water supply device management system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a control system block diagram of the water supply device in the water supply device management system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flow state explanatory view of the water use information in the water supply apparatus management system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the exchange promotion information transmission state to the water supply device and the information transmission state to a communication terminal in the water supply device management system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a regulation information transmission state to a water supply device and an information transmission state to a communication terminal in the water supply device management system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing of the purchase procedure information transmission state from an information terminal in the water supply device management system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention, and the regulation release information transmission state to a water supply device. It is a schematic block diagram of the water treatment system of another water supply device in the water supply device management system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the start timing of the automatic purchase process in another water supply apparatus management system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic block diagram of the water treatment system of the water supply device in the water supply device management system which concerns on 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic block diagram of the water treatment system of another water supply device in the water supply device management system which concerns on 3rd Embodiment of this invention.

(First Embodiment of the present invention)
Hereinafter, the water supply device management system according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9. In the present embodiment, an example in which a so-called built-in type water conditioner is used as the water supply device will be described.

In each of the above figures, the water supply device management system 1 according to the present embodiment can transmit and receive data to and from the water supply device 10 that supplies the treated water obtained by treating the raw water and the water supply device 10 via the network 100. It is configured to include a management server 90 that records and stores various information related to water supply in the water supply device 10.

The water supply device 10 introduces tap water as raw water through a predetermined pipeline 50 connected to the water supply, and supplies treated water obtained by performing a predetermined treatment on the raw water based on the operation of the user. As a so-called built-in type, the main body portion 10a and the faucet portion 10b are separated from each other.

Specifically, the water supply device 10 is connected to the water supply via the pipeline 50, and is a water supply side switching valve that switches between passing water to the device side and stopping water of tap water as raw water supplied from the water supply. 11 and one or more water purification cartridges 12 that are replaceably provided with a built-in filter that removes impurities from the passing raw water and purifies it, and measures the flow rate of purified water that has passed through the water purification cartridge 12. The flow rate sensor 13 as the flow rate measuring means, the electrolytic tank 16 that electrolyzes the water that has passed through the water purification cartridge 12, the water discharge flow path 17a that flows the treated water to be used, and the discharge that discharges the water that is not used. The flow path 17b, the display unit 18 that displays information on the treated water to be discharged, the operating status of each part of the device, the replacement time of the water purification cartridge, etc., and a plurality of instructions for starting and stopping the device and generating various treated waters. The operation unit 19 having the switch of the above and receiving the operation input of the user, the control unit 20 for controlling each electrically connected unit, and the communication means 25 for communicating with the management server 90 through the network 100. It is a configuration to prepare.

Of the water supply device 10, the water supply side switching valve 11, the water purification cartridge 12, the flow sensor 13, the electrolytic tank 16, and the water discharge flow path 17a relating to the treatment of the raw water flowing in by passing water and the supply of the treated water obtained by the treatment. As for the configuration of each mechanism of the discharge flow path 17b, it is known that alkaline water and acidic water obtained by electrolysis and purified water that is only purified by the water purification cartridge 12 but not electrolyzed can be discharged and supplied as treated water. It is the same as the ion water conditioner of the above, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The control unit 20 receives the operation of the operation unit 19, the state of the treated water recorded and set in advance, the information obtained from the flow rate sensor 13 and the like, and the external management server 90 for each part of the water supply device 10. Based on various information, the water supply side switching valve 11 is switched and the voltage is applied to each electrode of the electrolytic cell 16, respectively, and control is performed to appropriately generate and supply treated water.

In the control unit 20, a water generation mode selected based on a switch operation of the operation unit 19 by the user, for example, an alkaline water generation mode for supplying alkaline water, an acidic water generation mode for supplying acidic water, or the like. A mechanism is known for controlling the switching state of the flow path switching unit 15 and the voltage application state to each electrode of the electrolytic tank 16 so that treated water is generated along with water flow. It is the same as the ion water conditioner, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

On the other hand, the control unit 20 uses the water usage information including at least the water flow rate and the water flow time to the water purification cartridge 12 obtained by the measurement by the flow rate sensor 13 as the flow rate measuring means once by the user. Every time (from the start of water discharge to the stop of water), the communication means 25 executes the control of transmitting to the management server 90.

Specifically, the control unit 20 is supplied with treated water from the water supply device 10 by the operation of the user to the operation unit 19, and when the water supply device 10 is actually used, the user uses the water once. As information related to water supply, the flow rate and the elapsed time detected by the flow rate sensor 13 are counted. Then, when the supply of the treated water is stopped by the operation of the user and the use of the water supply device is completed, the control unit 20 specifies the total water flow amount in one water use, the water flow time thereof, and the water supply device 10. Control is performed to transmit the water usage information of the water supply device 10 including the information and the type of the supplied treated water to the management server 90 by the communication means 25.

In this way, the water supply device 10 transmits water usage information to the management server 90 for each water use by the user, and the management server 90 sets the water purification cartridge 12 in an appropriate usage state based on the water usage information. It is a mechanism used to judge whether or not there is.

Then, the management server 90 determines that the water purification cartridge 12 is not in an appropriate usage state (inappropriate usage state), and the management server 90 transmits regulation information related to water supply, which is transmitted to the water supply device 10. In the situation where the water supply device 20 receives the water, the control unit 20 shifts the water supply device 10 from a normal state in which the treated water can be supplied without limitation to an emergency state in which a predetermined limit is applied to the water supply, and the water purification cartridge 12 fails. Control is performed so that the display unit 18 as a notification means displays that it is in an appropriate usage state.

To limit the water supply in the water supply device 10 as an emergency state, specifically, the control unit 20 switches the water supply side switching valve 11 between the water supply device 10 and the raw water supply pipeline 50 to supply water. The water flow channel to the device 10 side is closed to stop the supply of raw water, and the water supply device obtains treated water from the raw water so that it cannot be supplied.

In addition, as a limitation of water supply in an emergency state, as shown in FIG. 9, the control unit 20 switches a predetermined switching valve 15, and the raw water does not pass through the water purification cartridge 12 or the electrolytic cell 16 and bypasses the water passage. By detouring to 17c so that the raw water is discharged as it is, or because the control unit 20 does not energize the electrolytic cell 16, the electrolyzed treated water is not executed in the electrolytic cell. It can also be disabled.

In addition, as another water supply restriction state, the amount of raw water flowing into the water supply device is reduced by controlling a predetermined valve of the water supply device, and the amount of treated water discharged from the water supply device is narrowed down. Although the treated water can be supplied from the water supply device, it is possible to give the user a feeling of use as if the water passage of the water supply device is clogged.

By combining these restrictions with the notification by the notification means (display unit 18), the user is strongly impressed that the water purification cartridge has reached the usage limit and is in an inappropriate usage state, and a new water purification cartridge is introduced. Can be encouraged to be exchanged.

Further, the control unit 20 determines whether or not the water purification cartridge 12 in the water supply device 10 has been replaced, whether or not the replaced water purification cartridge 12 is new or once used, and whether or not the water purification cartridge 12 is a genuine product. It has a known function that can be discriminated by using a detection means such as a sensor or a switch, and the discrimination result of the water purification cartridge 12 such as whether it has been replaced or not and whether it is new is used as a part of water usage information. It can also be sent to the management server 90. As a result, the management server 90 is in a state where the water purification cartridge 12 is continuously used without being replaced even if the usage limit is exceeded, or a water purification cartridge 12 is replaced but is not new or genuine. It is possible to determine the state of being replaced with the water purification cartridge as an improper use state.

Further, when the water supply device 10 is in an emergency state, the control unit 20 transmits the deregulation information from the management server 90, such as when the user performs a procedure for purchasing a water purification cartridge, and sends the deregulation information. When received by the communication means 25, the water supply device 10 is controlled to return from the emergency state to the normal state for at least a predetermined period (for example, about 2 weeks), and is in a state due to the limitation of water supply as an emergency state. Return each changed part to the original state.

At this time, when the user replaces the water purification cartridge of the water supply device 10 with a new water purification cartridge purchased and delivered while the water supply device 10 is in the normal state, this replacement is detected and the control unit 20 As a result, the return to the normal state is confirmed, and the normal state in which the water supply is not limited is maintained in the water supply device 10. On the other hand, if the user does not replace the water purification cartridge, the control unit 20 shifts the water supply device 10 from the normal state to the emergency state again after the predetermined period has passed, and the water supply is restricted. Become.

The communication means 25 has a function of connecting to a LAN or an IP communication network by wire or wirelessly, communicating with a management server 90 connected to the network 100 via these, and exchanging various information. When the communication means 25 is connected to a LAN, the communication can be performed not only by a wired connection but also by wireless communication by, for example, an IEEE 802.11 series or an IEEE 802.15 series standard method.

In addition, the communication means 25 may perform short-range communication with a predetermined communication terminal 80 used by the user of the water supply device 10 and communicate with the management server 90 via the communication terminal 80. it can. In this case, the communication means 25 is supposed to enable communication with the communication terminal 80 approached within a predetermined distance of the water supply device 10, and the water supply device is in a state of being able to communicate with the communication terminal 80. For each water use, the water usage information of the water supply device 10 is once transmitted to the communication terminal 80 and sent to the management server 90, while the regulation information and the like transmitted from the management server 90 through the communication terminal 80. Data will be received. Such communication between the communication means 25 and the communication terminal 80 is performed as short-range wireless communication based on a standard method such as ISO / IEC 18092, or wireless communication based on, for example, an IEEE 802.11 series or IEEE 802.15 series standard method.

The management server 90 is connected to a predetermined network 100, acquires various information related to water supply by a plurality of water supply devices 10 via the network 100, and records the obtained information for each water supply device 10. It is configured as a server that can execute the service to be stored. The management server 90 registers a predetermined communication terminal 80 in advance as a terminal used by the user of the water supply device 10, and is capable of communicating with the communication terminal 80 via the network 100.

Further, the management server 90 receives the water usage information from the water supply device 10 via the network 100, and the water purification cartridge 12 of the water supply device 10 is in an appropriate usage state based on the water usage information for each water supply device. If it is determined that the water supply device is not in an appropriate state of use, it is possible to execute a service of transmitting regulatory information related to the water supply of the water supply device to the water supply device 10.

The term "server" used in the present application including this embodiment does not necessarily mean a single device, and one or more devices are required by being connected to a network and cooperating with each other. It also includes the case where it is a group of devices that provide the above services as a unit.

As a specific example of the determination process of the water purification cartridge 12 of the water supply device 10 in the management server 90, the management server 90 has been based on the water usage information for each water supply device 10 since the last replacement of the water purification cartridge 12. The total amount of water flow is acquired and recorded. On top of that, the management server 90 determines that the cumulative water flow rate does not reach the predetermined upper limit value (for example, 8000 liters) of the water flow rate set in advance corresponding to the usage limit (product life) of the water purification cartridge 12. , The water purification cartridge 12 is treated as an appropriate usage state. Then, the management server 90 determines whether or not the integrated water flow amount exceeds the predetermined upper limit value of the water flow amount as a determination of whether or not the water purification cartridge 12 is in an appropriate usage state. When it is determined that the cumulative water flow amount exceeds the predetermined upper limit value, that is, the water purification cartridge 12 is not in an appropriate usage state, the management server 90 transmits the regulation information to the water supply device 10.

In addition to this, the management server 90 acquires the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge 12 per unit time based on the water usage information from the water supply device 10, and the amount of water flowing per unit time is the amount of water flowing through the water purification cartridge 12. Even a state in which the predetermined lower limit value of the water flow rate per unit time set in accordance with the usage limit is not reached (exceeded) is treated as an appropriate usage state of the water purification cartridge 12.

The management server 90 determines whether or not the water flow rate per unit time is below the predetermined lower limit value, and the water flow rate per unit time is lower than the predetermined lower limit value, that is, the water purification cartridge is not in an appropriate usage state. , The regulation information is transmitted to the water supply device 10 in the same manner as described above.

In this way, the management server 90 determines the state in which the usage limit of the water purification cartridge 12 has been reached: reaching the upper limit of the cumulative water flow amount and reaching the lower limit of the water flow amount per unit time to the water purification cartridge 12. It is executed based on the viewpoint.

Focusing on the fact that when the water purification cartridge deteriorates due to clogging of collected impurities, it becomes difficult for water to pass through the water purification cartridge, and the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge per unit time gradually decreases. By measuring the change over time in the amount of water flowed to 12 per unit time and using it to judge the degree of deterioration of the water purification cartridge 12, the water purification cartridge is based on the difference in the quality of the raw water compared to the judgment based only on the cumulative amount of water flow. It is possible to correctly determine the state in which 12 reaches the usage limit. ,

That is, when the degree of poor water quality of the raw water is large compared to the usage limit of the water purification cartridge predicted based only on the cumulative water flow amount, the deterioration of the water purification cartridge progresses faster than expected, and the actual usage limit of the water purification cartridge is reached. If the water quality is extremely good, the deterioration of the water purification cartridge will be slower than expected, and the actual usage limit of the water purification cartridge will be reached much later than the expected usage limit. It is possible to avoid such a situation, accurately determine the usage limit of the water purification cartridge, issue regulatory information, and encourage the user to replace the cartridge.

Since the water supply device 10 limits the water supply based on the regulation information from the management server 90, the water supply device 10 cannot continue to be used unless the water purification cartridge 12 that should be replaced is replaced. Recognize and convince the user of this, encourage the user to replace the water purification cartridge 12, prevent excessive continuous use of the water purification cartridge, and continue to use the water purification cartridge that has lost its water purification capacity. It is possible to effectively use the water supply device to the extent that the water of the water supply device can exert the effect that leads to the original health while preventing the adverse effect on the body due to the deterioration of the water quality.

In addition, the management server 90 determines whether or not the water purification cartridge 12 of the water supply device 10 is in an appropriate usage state, and determines the information on the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge 12 (the cumulative amount of water flow from the previous replacement and the unit). It is based on the amount of water flowing per hour), but in addition to this, it is desirable to use the length of the period of use since the last replacement of the water purification cartridge as a judgment factor. This is because even if the water supply device 10 is used infrequently and the amount of water flowing through the water purification cartridge 12 does not increase, the water purification cartridge 12 deteriorates if the water purification cartridge 12 is in contact with water for a long period of time. By being considered.

Therefore, in the management server 90, the integrated water flow amount does not exceed the predetermined upper limit value of the water flow amount, and the water flow amount to the water purification cartridge 12 per unit time reaches the predetermined lower limit value of the water flow amount per unit time. If the usage period of the water purification cartridge 12 exceeds the predetermined upper limit of the usage time set in advance corresponding to the usage limit of the water purification cartridge 12, the water purification cartridge 12 is appropriate even in the non-existing state. Recognize that it is not in use, send regulatory information to the water supply device 10, make the user aware of the inconvenient state where the water supply in the water supply device 10 is restricted, and replace the water purification cartridge of the user. It is desirable to encourage.

In addition, in the management server 90, the integrated water flow amount from the time of the previous replacement of the water purification cartridge 12 obtained from the water usage information for each water supply device 10 is a predetermined upper limit value of the water flow amount corresponding to the usage limit of the water purification cartridge 12. Immediately before, it is determined that the total water flow rate, which is a guideline for replacing the water purification cartridge, has reached a predetermined value set in advance. For example, when the total water flow rate from the previous cartridge replacement is set to 7500 liters. When it is determined that the cumulative water flow has reached this total water flow (7,500 liters), a service of transmitting exchange promotion information prompting the replacement of the water purification cartridge to the water supply device 10 through the network 100 is also feasible.

In this way, the water supply device 30 that has received the replacement promotion information related to the water purification cartridge from the management server 90 gives a notification prompting the replacement of the water purification cartridge. If the user obtains a new water purification cartridge and replaces it with the water purification cartridge mounted on the water supply device 10 at the timing of this notification, the water purification function of the water purification cartridge will not deteriorate beyond the permissible range. Replacement with a new water purification cartridge will be realized. If the user does not replace the water purification cartridge even if the user receives a notification from the water supply device based on the information prompting the replacement of the water purification cartridge, the cumulative water flow rate of the water purification cartridge 12 is the use of the water purification cartridge 12. When the upper limit of the water flow amount corresponding to the limit is exceeded, the management server 90 determines that the water purification cartridge 12 is not in an appropriate usage state, and a process of transmitting the regulation information to the water supply device 10 is performed.

The transmission of exchange promotion information prompting the replacement of the water purification cartridge from the management server 90 to the water supply device 10 is not limited to the case where the cumulative water flow amount reaches the total water flow amount as a guideline for replacing the water purification cartridge. The amount of water flowing to the cartridge 12 per unit time is less than the lower limit of the amount of water flowing per unit time, which is a guideline for replacing the water purification cartridge 12, or the period of use of the water purification cartridge 12 since the previous replacement is the water purification cartridge 12. Even if the upper limit usage time, which is a guideline for replacement, is exceeded, the same procedure is performed as described above, and a mechanism that encourages the user to replace the water purification cartridge before the water supply in the water supply device 10 is restricted. Is.

By notifying that the water supply device 10 should replace the water purification cartridge based on the replacement promotion information from the management server 90, the user is made aware that the time has come to replace the water purification cartridge. This encourages the user to replace the water purification cartridge, making it less likely that the water purification cartridge will continue to be used beyond its usage limit, and that the treated water of the water supply device will be able to exert its health-related effects without problems. The water supply device can be used while maintaining.

The management server 90 determines that the water purification cartridge 12 is not in an appropriate usage state, and when transmitting regulation information to the water supply device 10, the water purification cartridge 12 has reached a predetermined state as a guideline for replacement. When the exchange promotion information is transmitted to the water supply device 10, the communication state is established as necessary for the communication terminal 80 registered in advance as the terminal used by the user of the water supply device 10. After that, it has a function of transmitting information corresponding to regulation information and exchange promotion information via the network 100 by a method such as mail transmission or push notification.

The communication terminal 80 to which information is transmitted from the management server 90 includes a display device 81 and an input device 82, and is a mobile phone, a so-called smartphone, or a PDA having a wireless communication means 83 for connecting to and communicating with an IP communication network. It is a known device such as a mobile information terminal), and among them, it has a storage means 85 capable of executing an application program on the terminal and holding data. The communication terminal 80 has a touch panel type display device 81, and the display device also serves as an input device 82.

The communication terminal 80 is provided with a communication connection means 84 that directly communicates with the communication means 25 of the water supply device 10 by wireless communication, which is different from the wireless communication means 83 for connecting to the IP communication network, if necessary. The user brings the communication terminal 80 closer to the communication means 25 of the water supply device 10, and the communication connection means 84 in the standby state captures radio waves from the communication means 25, or the communication means 25 in the standby state. Captures radio waves from the communication connection means 84, and when a communication state is established between the communication connection means 84 and the communication means 25, the program is automatically started and executed, or by the operation of the user. By starting and executing the program, communication between the management server 90 and the water supply device 10 can be performed through the communication terminal 80.

When the management server 90 transmits the regulation information to the water supply device 10 to shift the water supply device 10 to the emergency state, the management server 90 also determines the communication terminal 80 registered as the terminal of the user of the water supply device 10. Sending information, the water purification cartridge 12 is in an improper use condition such as exceeding the usage limit, the water supply is restricted, and a new water purification cartridge can be purchased at the prescribed purchase site or in-app purchase process. If it can be purchased and it is purchased and exchanged, the restriction on water supply in the water supply device will be lifted (if necessary, it will also be indicated that the restriction will be lifted for a predetermined period even if the purchase procedure is completed. ) And the predetermined notifications indicating, respectively, to the user's communication terminal 80. As the notification, for example, a guidance display on the display device screen of the communication terminal 80 or a guidance by voice output is performed, so that the information can be more accurately transmitted to the user and used than in the case of only the notification by the water supply device 10. It is possible to strongly encourage people to purchase water purification cartridges.

Further, the management server 90 transmits information to the communication terminal 80 of the user when the water supply device 10 is in an emergency state for water supply, and a user interface for input related to the purchase of the water purification cartridge by the user. (For example, display the input content screen related to the purchase of the water purification cartridge in the purchase site or the purchase application) so that the user can actually perform the procedure for purchasing the water purification cartridge. In this state, when the user inputs the purchase of the water purification cartridge to the communication terminal 80, the communication terminal 80 that receives the input sends information to the management server 90 that the procedure for purchasing the water purification cartridge has been completed. To.

When the management server 90 receives the information from the communication terminal 80 that the procedure for purchasing the water purification cartridge has been performed by the user, the management server 90 refers to the information registered in advance for the corresponding user. Here, if the user is a person who meets the conditions for disabling the payment related to the purchase of the water purification cartridge, the management server 90 fails the payment, and the management server 90 purchases the communication terminal 80 by another purchase method. Send the prescribed information to guide the user to obtain the water purification cartridge. In this case, the water supply device 10 will be maintained in an emergency state. On the other hand, if the user does not meet the conditions that prohibit the settlement related to the purchase of the water purification cartridge, the settlement process is executed for the purchase procedure of the user to complete the settlement, and the delivery process of the water purification cartridge, for example, , Proceed with the process of sending instruction information for delivering the settled water purification cartridge to the cartridge distributor or delivery company from the base where the water purification cartridge is in stock to the registered user's residence. The management server 90 transmits the deregulation information to the corresponding water supply device 10.

When the water supply device 10 receives this deregulation information, the water supply device 10 returns from the emergency state to the normal state for a predetermined period of time, and finally the user delivers the water purification cartridge of the water supply device 10 to a new water purification cartridge. If you replace it with, the normal state will continue.

The management server 90 transmits the regulation release information to the water supply device 10 in an emergency state because the user performs a procedure for purchasing a water purification cartridge at the communication terminal 80, and the management server 90 makes a payment for it. Not limited to the case, it is also possible to have the management server 90 transmit the regulation release information to the predetermined water supply device 10 at an arbitrary timing by the instruction operation of the administrator of the management server 90. For example, an administrator who is involved in a purchasing system including a management server 90 related to the sale of a water purification cartridge, such as a cartridge sales business, and is authorized to handle the management server 90, uses a water supply device in an emergency state. Upon receiving a call or e-mail from a person, the management server 90 is operated to transmit the regulation release information to the corresponding water supply device 10, and the water supply device 10 is returned from the emergency state to the normal state. Can be made to. As a result, for example, the user's water supply device replaces the water purification cartridge even though the legitimate user of the water supply device has legitimately obtained the water purification cartridge by a purchase method other than the purchase by the communication terminal 80. Even if the water supply device shifts from the normal state to the emergency state due to the delay of the water supply device, if the user of the water supply device notifies the administrator of such a situation, the management server 90 sends the deregulation information to the water supply device 10. , The water supply device 10 can be returned to the normal state to prevent the operation of the water supply device from being different depending on the method of obtaining the cartridge, and the user who has already purchased the water purification cartridge can return the water supply device to the normal state. It is possible to avoid a situation in which the user is further burdened in some cases, such as purchasing another new water purification cartridge at the communication terminal 80 in order to recover.

Further, when the management server 90 transmits the exchange promotion information prompting the exchange before the usage limit of the water purification cartridge 12 is reached to the water supply device 10, the management server 90 also sends predetermined information to the communication terminal 80 of the user through the network 100. Is sent, and the water purification cartridge 12 is in a state to be replaced, and a new water purification cartridge for replacement can be purchased at a predetermined purchase site or in-app purchase process (if necessary, the purchase procedure is completed). The user's communication terminal 80 is made to execute a predetermined notification indicating that the privilege is given to the user). As the notification, for example, a guidance display is performed on the display device screen of the communication terminal 80, so that the information can be accurately transmitted to the user and more powerfully to the user than in the case of only the notification by the water supply device 10. It is possible to encourage the purchase of water purification cartridges.

Then, the management server 90 continuously transmits information to the communication terminal 80 of the user to provide a user interface for input related to the purchase of the water purification cartridge by the user (for example, an input content screen related to the purchase of the water purification cartridge). Make the display) so that the user can actually purchase the water purification cartridge. In this state, when the user inputs the purchase of the water purification cartridge to the communication terminal 80, the communication terminal 80 that receives the input sends information to the management server 90 that the procedure for purchasing the water purification cartridge has been completed. To.

In this case as well, the management server 90 has registered information about the corresponding user, as in the case where the user can perform the procedure for purchasing the water purification cartridge on the communication terminal 80 when the water supply device 10 is in an emergency state. Refer to. If the user falls under the condition that the payment related to the purchase of the water purification cartridge is not possible, the management server 90 fails the payment, and the management server 90 obtains the water purification cartridge from the communication terminal 80 by another purchase method. To send the prescribed information to guide the user. On the other hand, if the user does not meet the conditions for disabling the settlement related to the purchase of the water purification cartridge, the management server 90 executes the settlement process for the purchase procedure of the user to complete the settlement, and the water purification cartridge Proceed with delivery processing.

In addition, the management server 90 notifies the user's communication terminal 80 that a new water purification cartridge can be purchased via the communication terminal 80 in accordance with transmitting regulation information and exchange promotion information to the water supply device 10. At the same time, it may be notified that a predetermined privilege will be given according to the purchase to further promote the purchase of the water purification cartridge.

Benefits are given as points, for example, and the number of points (privilege data) corresponding to the type of water purification cartridge and the number of purchases when purchasing a water purification cartridge is calculated, and this is accumulated for each user on the management server 90 and used as privilege information. Recorded and stored.

Similar to those generally handled in electronic commerce, these points can be exchanged for a predetermined value at the request of the user, and the operator (administrator) of the management server 90 also operates a point exchangeable site. If so, the user can either redeem points directly at that site or redeem them for another point available on another e-commerce site. When the user uses the points, information to that effect is sent to the management server 90, and the points used by the user are subtracted from the privilege information.

Then, the management server 90 can browse the recorded privilege information to the user through the network 100 so that the user can confirm the grant status of the privilege via the communication terminal 80 or another terminal such as a computer. It is desirable to provide the service. For example, when a user accesses a site on the web provided by the management server 90 using another terminal such as a communication terminal 80 or a computer, the management server 90 receives image information displayed on the web screen, a computer, or communication. If the privilege information is transmitted to the computer or communication terminal on the user side as the voice information output through the speaker of the terminal, the user can view the privilege information via these computers or communication terminals.

In addition to the points, the privilege to be given may be the provision of limited profits (discount of the purchase price of the water purification cartridge, etc.). In this case, the profit content provided can be adjusted according to the timing of notification (when exchanging promotion information is transmitted or when regulatory information is transmitted) and the target user, for example, the purchase time is earlier. The more the total number of purchases is, the more advantageous the content is.

Next, the management and information recording of the use of the water supply device in the water supply device management system according to the present embodiment will be described. As a premise, the water supply device 10 is installed and arranged so that tap water as raw water can pass through, and the water purification cartridge 12 is properly installed in a state where it can exert its water purification capacity, and there is no problem if the power is turned on. It shall be activated and ready to supply the user with the selected predetermined treated water.

In addition, the water supply device 10 and the user who uses the water supply device 10 are registered in advance in the management server 90 that exchanges information with the water supply device 10, and information on the cumulative water flow amount up to that point in the water supply device 10 and information , It is assumed that the privilege information of the user up to that point is recorded.

First, when a predetermined water supply device 10 used by the user is operated to turn on the power, the water supply device 10 starts in a normal state in which water can be supplied.
After the water supply device 10 is started, the water supply device 10 is in a state of waiting for an operation instructing the user to execute a predetermined treatment water. When the user operates the execution of the treated water supply from the operation unit 19 of the water supply device 10 to the water supply device 10, the treatment water supply is started as needed by the control unit 20 of the water supply device 10. After the preparatory operation such as the previous waste water is automatically executed, the water supply device 10 discharges and supplies the treated water (alkaline water, acidic water, or purified water) of the type instructed by the user. While the water supply device 10 supplies the treated water in this way, the flow rate sensor 13 detects the amount of water flowing through the water purification cartridge 12.

When the supply of treated water is stopped by the operation of the user and the use of the water supply device 10 is completed, the control unit 20 specifies the total water flow amount, the water flow time, and the water supply device 10 in this one water use. The water usage information of the water supply device 10 including the information to be supplied and the type of treated water to be supplied is transmitted to the management server 90 by the communication means 25 (see FIG. 5).

When the management server 90 receives the water usage information transmitted from the water supply device 10 via the network 100, the management server 90 identifies the water supply device 10 from the water usage information, and the water purification cartridge 12 of the water supply device 10 is used appropriately. From the time of the previous replacement of the water purification cartridge, based on the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge 12 included in the water usage information for each water supply device, in order to determine whether it is in a state or has reached a state to be replaced. Acquire and record the total amount of water flow. Further, the management server 90 acquires the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge 12 per unit time from the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge 12 and the water flow time, and further, based on the water flow time, the previous time of the water purification cartridge 12. Acquire and record the period of use from the time of replacement. These cumulative water flow, water flow per unit time, and period of use, which are updated by new water use in the user's water supply device, and preset values that correspond to appropriate usage conditions. Or, it will be compared with a predetermined value set in advance as a guideline for replacement.

Then, the management server 90 determines whether or not the cumulative water flow amount from the previous replacement of the water purification cartridge 12 has reached the total water flow amount as a guideline for replacing the water purification cartridge, and the water flow to the water purification cartridge 12 per unit time. Whether or not the amount of water has fallen below the lower limit of water flow per unit time, which is a guideline for replacing the water purification cartridge 12, and the period of use since the previous replacement of the water purification cartridge 12 are the guideline for replacing the water purification cartridge 12. It is necessary to determine whether or not the upper limit usage time has been reached, and confirm whether or not the water purification cartridge is in a state to be replaced.

Since the function of purifying the raw water of the water purification cartridge 12 is maintained for a while after the water purification cartridge 12 of the water supply device 10 is replaced, the above conditions are not met and the water supply device 10 is in the normal state. It will be maintained as it is and will continue to supply water in response to the user's operation.

On the other hand, the usage period becomes long to the extent that the water purification cartridge 12 of the water supply device 10 deteriorates, and the cumulative water flow amount from the previous replacement of the water purification cartridge 12 reaches the total water flow amount that is a guideline for replacing the water purification cartridge. Or, the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge 12 per unit time is less than the lower limit of the amount of water flowing per unit time, which is a guideline for replacing the water purification cartridge 12, or the period of use of the water purification cartridge 12 since the previous replacement is When the upper limit usage time, which is a guideline for replacing the water purification cartridge 12, is reached, the management server 90 transmits replacement promotion information prompting the replacement of the water purification cartridge to the water supply device 10 through the network 100 (see FIG. 6).

When the water supply device 10 receives the exchange promotion information from the management server 90 through the communication means 25, the water supply device 10 notifies the display unit 18 to prompt the replacement of the water purification cartridge. At this time, information is also transmitted from the management server 90 to the communication terminal 80 of the user of the water supply device 10, and the water purification cartridge 12 has reached a state to be replaced in the communication terminal 80 as well. Notifications are executed to indicate that new water purification cartridges can be purchased (see FIG. 6).

When the user obtains a new water purification cartridge and replaces it with the water purification cartridge mounted on the water supply device 10 in response to the notification by the water supply device 10 or the communication terminal 80, this replacement is the water supply device 10. The water supply device 10 sends information on the exchange execution to the management server 90. Upon receiving this information, the management server 90 approves the replacement of the water purification cartridge 12 in the water supply device 10, sets the cumulative water flow amount and usage period recorded for each water supply device 10 from the previous replacement to 0, and sets it to 0. This water purification cartridge replacement opportunity will be used as a new previous water purification cartridge replacement, and the cumulative amount of water flow and usage period will be recorded again.

On the other hand, if the user does not replace the water purification cartridge 12 even if the user comes in contact with the notification from the water supply device 10 or the communication terminal 80, the water purification cartridge 12 of the water supply device 10 does not take much time. When the usage limit is reached, the management server 90 determines that the water purification cartridge 12 is not in an appropriate usage state.

Specifically, the management server 90 sets a predetermined upper limit value of the water flow amount (for example, for example, the cumulative water flow amount since the previous replacement of the water purification cartridge 12 of the water supply device 10 corresponds to the usage limit of the water purification cartridge 12). If it is determined whether or not it exceeds 8000 liters and it is determined that the cumulative water flow amount exceeds the predetermined upper limit value, that is, the water purification cartridge 12 is not in an appropriate usage state, the management server 90 regulates it. Information is transmitted to the water supply device 10 (see FIG. 7).

Here, even in a situation where the cumulative water flow amount does not exceed the predetermined upper limit value of the water flow amount, the management server 90 corresponds to the usage limit of the water purification cartridge 12 in the water flow amount per unit time to the water purification cartridge 12. It is determined whether or not the water flow rate per unit time is below the predetermined lower limit value set in advance, and when the water flow rate per unit time falls below the predetermined lower limit value, the water purification is performed in the same manner as described above. Regulation information is transmitted to the water supply device 10 as the cartridge 12 is in an improper use state.

Further, even in a situation where the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge 12 per unit time does not reach the predetermined lower limit value of the amount of water flowing per unit time, the management server 90 has been used since the last replacement of the water purification cartridge. It is determined whether or not the period exceeds the predetermined upper limit value of the usage time set in advance corresponding to the usage limit of the water purification cartridge 12, and if the usage period exceeds the predetermined upper limit value, Similarly to the above, the regulation information is transmitted to the water supply device 10 on the assumption that the water purification cartridge 12 is in an improper use state (see FIG. 7).

When the water supply device 10 receives the regulation information from the management server 90 through the communication means 25, the water supply device 10 changes from the normal state in which the treated water can be supplied without limitation to the water supply under the control of the control unit 20. Transition to an emergency state with certain restrictions.

To limit the water supply in the water supply device 10 as an emergency state, for example, the water supply side switching valve 11 between the water supply device 10 and the raw water supply pipeline 50 is switched to pass the water to the water supply device 10 side. It is carried out by closing the water channel to stop the supply of raw water so that the water supply device cannot obtain treated water from the raw water and supply it.

In addition, the water supply device 10 notifies the display unit 18 that the water purification cartridge 12 is in an improper use state. At this time, information is also transmitted from the management server 90 to the communication terminal 80 of the user of the water supply device 10, and the water purification cartridge 12 also exceeds the usage limit in the communication terminal 80, resulting in an inappropriate usage state. Yes, it indicates that the water supply is restricted and that the restriction on the water supply in the water supply device is lifted when a new water purification cartridge can be purchased through the communication terminal 80 and is purchased and replaced. Notification is executed (see FIG. 7).

When the user recognizes the inconvenient state in which the water supply in the water supply device 10 is restricted, the user decides to replace the water purification cartridge in response to the notification by the water supply device 10 or the communication terminal 80. When the user inputs the purchase of the water purification cartridge to the communication terminal 80 that is in a state where the procedure for purchasing the water purification cartridge can be performed, the management server 90 receives information from the communication terminal 80 that the procedure for purchasing the water purification cartridge has been performed. Is transmitted to (see FIG. 8).

When the management server 90 receives the information from the communication terminal 80 that the procedure for purchasing the water purification cartridge has been performed by the user, the management server 90 refers to the information registered in advance for the user. Here, if the user is a person who meets the conditions for disabling the settlement related to the purchase of the water purification cartridge, the management server 90 fails the settlement, and the water supply device 10 is maintained in an emergency state and managed. The server 90 transmits information for causing the communication terminal 80 to execute the acquisition guidance of the water purification cartridge by another purchase method.

On the other hand, if the user does not meet the conditions for disabling the settlement related to the purchase of the water purification cartridge, the management server 90 executes the settlement process for the purchase procedure of the user to complete the settlement, and the delivery process of the water purification cartridge. At the same time, the regulation release information is transmitted to the water supply device 10 (see FIG. 8).

When the water supply device 10 receives the regulation release information from the management server 90, each unit whose state has been changed due to the restriction of water supply as an emergency state is returned to the original state by the control by the control unit 20. It is made to return from the state to the normal state for a predetermined period (for example, about 2 weeks).

When the user replaces the water purification cartridge of the water supply device 10 with a new water purification cartridge that has been purchased and delivered during the predetermined period in which the water supply device 10 is in the normal state, this replacement is detected and the water supply device 10 is replaced. At 10, the normal state with no restriction on water supply is maintained. On the other hand, when the user does not replace the water purification cartridge, after the above-mentioned predetermined period has passed, the water supply device 10 shifts from the normal state to the emergency state again, and water is used until the user replaces the water purification cartridge with a new one. Supply restrictions are imposed.

When the user replaces the water purification cartridge of the water supply device 10 with a new water purification cartridge and the fact of the replacement is detected by the water supply device 10, if the water supply device 10 is in an emergency state, it returns to the normal state again. Then, the water supply device 10 sends the exchange execution information to the management server 90. Upon receiving this information, the management server 90 approves the replacement of the water purification cartridge 12 in the water supply device 10, sets the cumulative water flow amount and usage period recorded for each water supply device 10 from the previous replacement to 0, and sets it to 0. This water purification cartridge replacement opportunity will be used as a new previous water purification cartridge replacement, and the cumulative amount of water flow and usage period will be recorded again.

In using the water supply device 10, the purification function of the water purification cartridge 12 generally does not change, especially when the water supply device 10 performs electrolysis to supply alkaline water or acidic water as treated water. Various conditions related to electrolysis are set to control electrolysis, but in addition to this, the degree of deterioration of the water purification cartridge 12 and the degree of deterioration based on it are based on changes in the cumulative water flow rate and the water flow rate per unit time. Since it is possible to estimate the water quality after passing through the changing water purification cartridge, information on the cumulative water flow rate and changes in the water flow rate per unit time is received from the management server 90 or obtained by the water supply device itself, and water is supplied using such information. It is also possible to control the electrolysis in the apparatus and execute the electrolysis adapted to the water quality after passing through the water purification cartridge. In that case, in addition to information such as the cumulative amount of water flowed to the water purification cartridge, information on temperature and humidity, biometric information of the user, exercise history information of the user, or information related to the meal content of the user, etc. It is also possible to collect and acquire the data and further adjust and control the electrolytic state based on this information.

Further, based on various information such as temperature and humidity collected in this way, the communication terminal 80 can send advice information to the user regarding the drinking amount of the treated water. In that case, information on the amount of water flow acquired by the water supply device 10 and the management server 90, information on the usage ratio for each type of treated water, and the like are transmitted to the communication terminal 80, and the actual drinking amount of the treated water is taken into consideration. The advice information may be transmitted from the communication terminal 80.

As described above, in the water supply device management system according to the present embodiment, when the user uses the water supply device 10, water such as the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge 12 acquired by the water supply device 10 each time the treated water is used. The management server 90 collects and records usage information, and the management server 90 monitors the change in the amount of water flow per unit time for each water supply device 10 over time. For example, the decrease in the amount of water flow is purified by clogging the filter. It is assumed that the deterioration of the water purification cartridge 12 corresponds to a change in the water flow rate that decreases with the passage of time, assuming that it is due to the deterioration of the cartridge 12, and the water purification cartridge 12 is based on the change over time in the water flow rate per unit time. Since the degree of deterioration of the water purification cartridge 12 is estimated and the usage limit of the water purification cartridge 12 and the replacement time are determined based on the usage limit, the time when the water purification cartridge 12 should be replaced in the water supply device 10 is actually determined by the water in the water purification cartridge 12. The management server 90 can make a judgment based on the state in which it is difficult to pass through, that is, the state in which the water purification cartridge is considered to have deteriorated, and the usage limit of the cartridge that is accelerated or delayed due to the influence of the quality of the raw water in the water supply device 10. It is possible to correctly estimate the arrival time of the cartridge, realize the replacement of the cartridge at the optimum timing, secure the continuous water purification capacity, and replace the cartridge having the water purification function early and waste it. The water supply device can be operated efficiently.

In the above embodiment, the water supply device 10 is used as a part of the water supply device management system 1, and the water supply device 10 transmits water usage information to the management server 90, and the management server 90 is based on the water usage information. Obtain the cumulative water flow rate from the previous replacement of the water purification cartridge 12, the water flow rate to the water purification cartridge 12 per unit time, etc., and the cumulative water flow rate and the water flow rate per unit time exceed the preset limit values. When the management server 90 determines that the water purification cartridge 12 is not in an appropriate usage state, the management server 90 transmits the regulation information to the water supply device 10, and the water supply device 10 that receives the regulation information supplies the treated water. A configuration in which the display unit 18 notifies that the water purification cartridge 12 is in an inappropriate use state by shifting from a normal state that can be performed without limitation to an emergency state that imposes a predetermined limit on the water supply. However, it is not limited to this, and the water supply device itself acquires the integrated water flow amount, water flow amount per unit time, etc. based on the water usage information, and sets these as preset limit values. By comparison, it is determined whether or not the purified water cartridge is in an appropriate usage state, and if it is determined that the water purification cartridge is not in an appropriate usage condition, the treatment water supply is restricted from the normal state where the treatment water can be supplied without limitation. It is also possible to make a configuration for notifying that the water purification cartridge is in an improper use state as well as shifting to an emergency state.

In this case, the user is made aware that the water supply device cannot use the treated water due to improper use of the water purification cartridge without the need to build a system for exchanging information with the management server. The user is strongly aware of the need for proper use such as replacing the water purification cartridge with a new one in order to return from the emergency state to the normal state, and encourages the user to purchase and replace the water purification cartridge. ..

Further, in the water supply device management system according to the embodiment, the communication means 25 of the water supply device 10 is configured to be able to communicate with the management server 90 without any particular restrictions. In addition, the communication means of the water supply device However, it may be configured to be under communication control by a so-called SIM card, that is, a recording medium on which subscriber identification information is recorded.

In this case, the subscriber identification information of the recording medium is associated with the user of the water supply device, and the communication means is communicable while the subscriber identification information of the recording medium is valid. Then, every time the user purchases a water purification cartridge, the validity period of the subscriber identification information of the recording medium is extended by a period corresponding to the usable period until the usage limit of the water purification cartridge is reached, in other words. By adding a validity period extension fee commensurate with the usable period of the water purification cartridge in the subscriber identification information to the purchase cost of the water purification cartridge, communication between the water supply device and the management server is supported for each replacement of the water purification cartridge. Can be managed.

When the validity period of the subscriber identification information of the recording medium expires and the usage limit of the water purification cartridge is reached, the communication between the water supply device and the management server is also stopped. When the subscriber identification information of this recording medium is not valid, the water supply device shifts from the normal state to the emergency state and executes a predetermined notification indicating to the user that the water purification cartridge is in an improper use state. By doing so, when the water purification cartridge of the water treatment device exceeds the usage limit and becomes inappropriately used, it is necessary to limit the supply of treated water and notify the user to that effect. While the processing is surely executed, the communication in the water supply device is properly managed to prevent the occurrence of unnecessary communication, the burden of communication cost can be suppressed, and the communication volume of the management server is reduced to improve the efficiency of communication processing. Can be enhanced.

Furthermore, the recording medium (SIM card) on which the subscriber identification information is recorded can be integrated with the water purification cartridge, and the recording medium is replaced at the same time as the water purification cartridge is replaced, and each time the user purchases the water purification cartridge. In addition, the validity period of the new subscriber identification information will start, the contract and management related to communication can be simplified, and the burden on the user related to the handling of the communication function of the water supply device can be suppressed. In this case, the water purification cartridge can be configured to further incorporate the communication means itself, the battery that serves as the power source thereof, and the flow sensor, and the water purification cartridge of the water supply device having only the water purification function that does not require a power supply because it does not have the electrolytic function. By applying such a water purification cartridge, it is possible to add a communication function to a water supply device that does not have a power supply and incorporate it into the management system, and regardless of the configuration on the water supply device side, the water purification cartridge in the water supply device It is possible to efficiently promote purchases and exchanges.

Further, in the water supply device management system according to the above embodiment, it is known to use a detection means such as a sensor or a switch to determine whether the replaced water purification cartridge 12 in the water supply device 10 is new or once used. The configuration is performed by the method, but the configuration is not limited to this, and it is determined whether the replaced water purification cartridge is a new one with sufficient water purification capacity or not based on the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge per unit time. You can also.

In this case, when a new water purification cartridge is used, the amount of water flow per unit time is acquired in advance and recorded in the management server 90 as a reference value, and then the replaced water purification cartridge is transferred to the water purification cartridge in one use. The management server 90, which measures the amount of water flowing through the water and receives it as part of the water usage information, obtains the amount of water flowing through the water purification cartridge per unit time and compares it with the reference value. It can be correctly determined that a non-new water purification cartridge has been installed as a replacement, and the improper use condition of the water purification cartridge can be reliably determined, and when the water purification cartridge is replaced, Whether or not it is a new water purification cartridge can be detected without using a special detection sensor or the like, and the cost of the water supply device can be suppressed.

Further, in the water supply device management system according to the above embodiment, when the user obtains the water purification cartridge at the time when the water purification cartridge should be replaced, the user's communication terminal 80 is based on the information from the management server 90. Executes a notification prompting the user to purchase a new water purification cartridge, and further, the user instructs the communication terminal 80 to purchase the water purification cartridge in response to providing a user interface for input related to the purchase of the user's water purification cartridge. When the input is made, the information of the water purification cartridge purchase procedure is transmitted from the communication terminal 80 to the management server 90, the process related to the purchase of the water purification cartridge proceeds, and if the user meets the payment conditions, the water purification cartridge is sent to the user. It requires a procedure of delivery, but in addition to this, when it is time to replace the water purification cartridge of the specified water supply device, the purchase process of the water purification cartridge is automatically advanced and the water supply device is used. The water purification cartridge is delivered and delivered to the person, and every time the water purification cartridge should be replaced, the user is not required to input the water purification cartridge to the communication terminal 80 or the like, so-called automatic purchase. It can also be configured to adopt a mechanism.

Specifically, the management server 90 refers to the water supply device 10 of the user who has a purchase contract in advance, and the cumulative water flow amount from the previous replacement of the water purification cartridge 12 obtained from the water usage information for each water supply device 10. However, when it is determined that the total water flow amount, which is a guideline for replacing the water purification cartridge 12, has reached a predetermined value (for example, 7500 liters), the required number of water purification cartridges corresponding to the water supply device is ordered and ordered. Instructions for establishing a settlement for the purchase of a water purification cartridge by a user and enabling the cartridge seller or delivery company to deliver the settled water purification cartridge from the base where the water purification cartridge is in stock to the user's residence. A series of processes (automatic purchase process) up to sending information is automatically executed. The water purification cartridge that has been settled and purchased is delivered to the user by the cartridge seller or the delivery company based on the instruction information from the management server 90, and is delivered.

It should be noted that it is also possible to switch between the case where such automatic purchase processing is applied and the case where it is not applied depending on the usage state of the water purification cartridge. For example, the management server 90 is set for the water purification cartridge 12 of the water supply device 10 including a predetermined period before and after the average usage period (for example, one year) as a guideline for replacing the water purification cartridge 12. The automatic purchase period is defined, the period of use of the water purification cartridge 12 in the water supply device 10 from the previous replacement is recognized as being within the range of the automatic purchase period, and the total amount from the previous replacement of the water purification cartridge 12 When it is determined that the water flow rate has reached a predetermined value (for example, 7500 liters) set in advance as the total water flow rate as a guideline for replacing the water purification cartridge 12 (see point A in FIG. 10), the same as above, water Execute a series of automatic purchase processes related to the purchase of water purification cartridges by the user of the supply device.

On the other hand, before the period of use of the water purification cartridge 12 in the water supply device 10 from the previous replacement reaches the range of the automatic purchase period, the cumulative water flow amount is the total water flow amount that serves as a guide for replacing the water purification cartridge 12. Even if it is determined that the specified value has been reached (in the case of the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 10) or the period of use of the water purification cartridge 12 since the previous replacement exceeds the range of the automatic purchase period, the accumulated water flow rate still increases. When it is determined that the total water flow amount is less than the predetermined value (the case of the broken line in FIG. 10), which is a guideline for replacing the water purification cartridge 12, the management server 90 does not perform the automatic purchase process. In the former case, when the cumulative water flow amount reaches the predetermined value of the total water flow amount (see point B in FIG. 10), in the latter case, the usage period from the previous replacement of the water purification cartridge is the automatic purchase. When the period exceeds the range (see point C in FIG. 10), the exchange promotion information is transmitted to the communication terminal 80 of the user so that the procedure for purchasing the water purification cartridge can be performed from the communication terminal 80. Waiting for the purchase instruction, the management server 90 proceeds with the process related to the purchase of the water purification cartridge.

However, if the cumulative water flow does not perform the automatic purchase process in this way and the cumulative water flow reaches the target total water flow earlier than the average use, or if the cumulative water flow increases later than the average use, the usage period is the automatic purchase period. Even if the total amount of water flow exceeds the above-mentioned guideline, first check with the user, receive the purchase instruction, and proceed with the procedure to deliver the purified water cartridge. Regarding the replacement time, inquiries will be made at the first confirmation stage as to whether or not to switch to automatic purchase after the second exchange, and if the user's consent for automatic purchase is obtained, the exchange will be promoted at the first opportunity. The automatic purchase process may be executed at the same timing as the information is transmitted.

(Second Embodiment of the present invention)
In the water supply device management system according to the first embodiment, the water supply device 10 is used as a method for determining the state in which the water purification cartridge 12 has reached the usage limit as an inappropriate usage state of the water purification cartridge 12. Based on the water usage information from, the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge 12 per unit time is acquired, and the change over time in the amount of water flowing per unit time is measured to determine the degree of deterioration of the water purification cartridge 12. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the amount of water flowing through the water purification cartridge 12 per unit time is less than the predetermined lower limit value of the amount of water flowing per unit time set in advance corresponding to the usage limit of the water purification cartridge 12. When the water flow rate per unit time is less than the predetermined lower limit value, it is determined that the water purification cartridge 12 has exceeded the usage limit, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the water flow rate per unit time to the water purification cartridge is not limited to this. A configuration used to determine the usage limit of a water purification cartridge by certifying the degree of deterioration of the water purification cartridge based on the progress rate of the decrease change over time, that is, the rate of decrease of the amount of water flow per unit time with respect to the passage of time. It can also be.

This is because when the water quality of the raw water is not good, the water permeability of the water purification cartridge deteriorates rapidly, that is, the amount of water flow per unit time decreases quickly, and the usage limit of the water purification cartridge is reached quickly. On the contrary, when the quality of the raw water is good, the deterioration of the water permeability of the water purification cartridge, that is, the decrease in the amount of water flow per unit time is slow, and the reaching of the usage limit of the water purification cartridge is also delayed. The degree of deterioration of the water purification cartridge is estimated based on the above, and the time when the water purification cartridge reaches the usage limit is determined. Based on the difference in the quality of the raw water, the state of reaching the usage limit of the water purification cartridge 12 is correctly determined. can do.

Further, in determining the degree of deterioration of the water purification cartridge 12, while paying attention to the progress rate of the decrease change in the time change of the water flow amount per unit time to the water purification cartridge 12, when the progress rate of the decrease change of the water flow amount is large. It can be said that the quality of the raw water passing through the water purification cartridge is not good because the water purification cartridge deteriorates quickly. Further, when the progress rate of the decrease and change of the water flow rate is small, the deterioration of the water purification cartridge is slow, so that it can be said that the quality of the raw water passing through the water purification cartridge is good. That is, it can be seen that the quality of raw water can be estimated from the progress rate of the decrease change with time of the water flow amount per unit time.

However, the quality of the raw water here is different from the progress rate of the decrease change over time in the amount of water flow per unit time when the raw water of a certain standard water quality is used in one water supply device. Relative, such as obtaining the progress rate of the decrease change in the amount of water flow per unit time with time when using raw water, the water quality of this other raw water can be obtained as the relative water quality to the reference water quality. It will be something like that.

However, for multiple water supply devices of the same type, the standard water quality is the same for the progress rate of the decrease change over time in the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge for each of these water supply devices over time. It can be seen, and the difference in raw water quality for each water supply device can be judged from the difference in the traveling speed.

Based on this, the management server 90 reduces the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge for each water supply device over time for a plurality of water supply devices of the same type installed at each position in the predetermined area. If the rate of change is obtained and the quality of the raw water to be introduced into the water supply device is estimated, the information on the raw water quality estimated for each water supply device and the installation position of each water supply device can be estimated. Based on the information, it is possible to acquire water quality distribution information indicating the quality of clean water as raw water for each position in a predetermined area.

From such water quality distribution information, for example, for a water supply device scheduled to be installed at a predetermined location in the area, the water quality is estimated from that position, the degree of deterioration of the water purification cartridge based on the water quality is estimated, and the replacement time of the water purification cartridge and You can judge the replacement frequency. As a result, the timing of providing information on the replacement of the water purification cartridge can be optimized in advance, and the certainty of the cartridge purchase by the user can be enhanced.

In addition to registering the installation position information of each water supply device in the predetermined area in the management server 90 in advance for each water supply device, the communication terminal 80 of the user or the communication means 25 of the water supply device 10 And, based on the position information acquisition using the position measurement method based on the communication with the wireless base station (access point) and the position information acquisition using the positioning means such as GPS, the position information is displayed on the management server 90 at any time. May be collected and recorded.

Further, in acquiring the water quality distribution information for each position in the predetermined area, the management server 90 relates to the water quality of the clean water (tap water) supplied as raw water to the water supply device in the predetermined area. Various public information, for example, water quality inspection data published by the water supply source (water company), data such as weather and precipitation in a predetermined period before the current time in the predetermined area that affects water quality, water supply work. Data such as the location and time of the water are collected and recorded via the network 100, and based on these public information, the standard water quality that is the basis of the water quality for each position in the predetermined area is analyzed and set, and the raw water is used. It is also possible to eliminate the influence of the transient change in the water quality of the clean water, estimate the water quality at the installation position of each water supply device, and acquire the water quality distribution information in the predetermined area.

In this case, the water quality status including the transient change of the clean water as raw water at the installation position of each water supply device can be grasped from the public information on the water quality of the collected clean water, so that the water purification cartridge of each water supply device can be grasped. It is possible to determine whether or not the water quality that can be seen from the change in the amount of water flowing per unit time to the water is affected by the change in the raw water quality, and the water quality acquired by the management server 90 is deteriorated due to clogging of the water purification cartridge. It is possible to accurately verify whether or not it corresponds correctly to the progress. As a result, the water quality can be correctly recognized from the degree of change in the amount of water flow per unit time over time, the water quality distribution in the area can be accurately obtained, and the prediction of the replacement time of the water purification cartridge based on the water quality distribution information can be made more accurately. This can be done, and the reliability of information provision regarding replacement of water purification cartridges can be further improved.

Furthermore, from the water quality distribution information of clean water acquired based on the known degree of change in the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge per unit time in multiple water supply devices in the predetermined area, each water supply device in the predetermined area Based on the influence of water quality on the deterioration of the water purification cartridge in the above, the progress of the deterioration of the water purification cartridge after that is predicted, the time when the water purification cartridge reaches the usage limit and needs to be replaced is estimated, and the predetermined area By grasping the mutual relationship between the replacement timings of the water purification cartridges for each water supply device, it is possible to accurately predict the tendency of the demand for the water purification cartridges to be replaced to be dispersed or concentrated.

As a result, the water purification cartridge can be efficiently manufactured and ordered according to the supply plan derived in advance in response to the trend of the demand for the water purification cartridge in the predetermined area, and the cost related to the supply of the water purification cartridge can be reduced. In addition, the data related to the demand forecast of water purification cartridges is useful because it enables efficient production of water purification cartridges, etc., and can be provided to manufacturers and distributors of water purification cartridges for a fee. It becomes.

(Third Embodiment of the present invention)
In the water supply device management system according to the first embodiment, the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge 12 by the flow sensor 13 is recognized when the deterioration of the water purification cartridge 12 is recognized based on the amount of water flowing due to the use of water in the water supply device 10. Only is detected, and based on the water usage information including this, the management server 90 is configured to acquire the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge 12 per unit time and the cumulative amount of water flowing from the previous replacement of the water purification cartridge 12. The present invention is not limited to this, and as shown in FIG. 11, the water supply device is provided with at least a bypass water passage 17c in which the water purification cartridge is not included in the water passage, and the amount of water passed through the water purification cartridge 12 and the bypass water passage. The amount of water that has passed through 17c is individually measured by the flow sensor 13, and each of these amounts of water is included in the water usage information and transmitted to the management server 90. In the management server 90, per unit time for the water purification cartridge. The amount of water flow and the amount of water flow per unit time in the bypass water passage 17c, which is the case where the water purification cartridge does not pass through, are obtained and compared, and the change in the amount of water flow per unit time to the water purification cartridge 12 over time is bypassed. The degree of deterioration of the water purification cartridge 12 is determined by measuring the change over time after excluding the change that appears in the water channel 17c as well as the change over time per unit time, and acquiring the degree of decrease in the amount of water flow per unit time. It can also be certified or configured to estimate the quality of raw water.

In this case, the amount of water flowing through the bypass water passage 17c based on the amount of water flowing through the bypass water passage 17c is different from the amount of water flowing through the water purification cartridge 12 per unit time. It is not affected by the water purification cartridge 12, and the change over time in the amount of water flow per unit time in the bypass water passage 17c is the same as the change over time in the amount of water flow derived from raw water that does not depend on the water purification cartridge.

Therefore, the amount of water flow per unit time when it does not pass through the water purification cartridge is obtained, and the amount of water flow per unit time to the water purification cartridge, which is changing due to the influence of the amount of raw water supplied, is similarly affected. It is corrected by the amount of water flow per unit time when it does not pass through the water purification cartridge, and from the change over time in the amount of water flow to the water purification cartridge per unit time, the flow per unit time in the bypass water passage 17c The change with time after removing the change appearing in the same manner as the change with time of the amount of water correctly reflects only the influence of deterioration such as clogging in the water purification cartridge 12.

Therefore, it is possible to accurately determine the amount of change caused by deterioration such as clogging of the water purification cartridge due to the change over time in the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge 12 per unit time, and the deteriorated state of the water purification cartridge 12 is correctly recognized. It is possible to determine the replacement time, prompt the cartridge to be replaced at a more appropriate timing, increase the user's sense of security, and improve the reliability of water treatment.

In the specific example shown in FIG. 11, water is passed through the water passage including the water purification cartridge 12, the amount of water flowing through the water purification cartridge 12 is measured by the flow rate sensor 13, and the switching valve 15 is switched while the water flow state is maintained. Therefore, the water purification cartridge is made to flow to the bypass water passage 17c which is not included in the water flow path, and the flow rate sensor 13 newly measures the amount of water flow to the bypass water passage 17c. By switching the water flow channel while passing water in this way, the water flow and its measurement can be continued, and the agreement of various conditions such as the water pressure related to the water flow can be ensured. In addition, the water supply side switching valve 11 that automatically controls whether or not to allow water flow is used to switch between the water passage that includes the water purification cartridge 12 and the bypass water passage 17c that does not include the water purification cartridge in the water passage. By using the switching valve 15 under the control of the water supply device 10, stable water flow is ensured, and smooth and even water flow channel switching is realized, as in the case of switching by manual operation of the valve. It is possible to avoid the influence of fluctuations in water flow due to valve operation.

It should be noted that, with such switching of the water flow channel, the amount of water flowed to the water purification cartridge 12 and the amount of water flowed to the bypass water flow channel 17c are continuously measured, and the timing for collecting information related to the water flow amount is, for example, acid water supply. There is a period of waste water in which the discharged water is discarded as an exclusion target for drinking at the time or when other treated water is supplied. This is because the water discharged through the bypass water passage 17c is not purified and is not suitable for drinking. Therefore, when the measurement related to the above water flow is discharged, the water that is not the treated water to be used for drinking is discharged. This is due to the need to execute it together.

In the specific example shown in FIG. 11, the flow rate sensors 13 are arranged in each of the water passage including the water purification cartridge 12 and the bypass water passage 17c in which the water purification cartridge is not included in the water passage, and the flow sensor 13 is provided to the water purification cartridge 12. The amount of water flow and the amount of water flow to the bypass water passage 17c are measured individually by each flow rate sensor, but the flow rate sensor is not limited to this, and the flow rate of each flow path can be measured by devising the arrangement of the flow rate sensors. It is also possible to measure with only one flow sensor. For example, a flow sensor is provided in the water passage immediately after the water supply side switching valve 11 on the upstream side (switching valve 15) where the water passage including the water purification cartridge 12 and the bypass water passage 17c branch off. May be good.

Further, when the water supply device is provided with the bypass water passage 17c, a switching valve 15 for switching between the case where water passes through the water purification cartridge 12 and the case where water passes through the bypass water passage 17c and does not pass through the water purification cartridge 12 is also provided. However, in addition to this, a water passage in the water supply device may be further set as necessary, and a switching valve for allowing water to flow into the new water passage may be additionally arranged as appropriate.

For example, as shown in FIG. 12, a branch pipeline 17d from the water supply device to a predetermined water distribution target outside is provided, and a new switching valve 14 for allowing water to pass from the main channel is provided at the branch position. In addition to the control when the water purification cartridge 12 is in an improper use state, this switching valve may be controlled and switched at a predetermined timing based on the transmission information from the management server. If the user gives an instruction to the management server 90 with a communication terminal or the like, the water flow state is switched by the instruction information from the management server 90, and a predetermined water distribution target to which the pipeline is connected in advance (for example, Water can be supplied remotely to pet drinking fountains, pots with plants, etc.). Further, in the water supply device, apart from the control when the water purification cartridge is in an inappropriate use state, it is based on the transmission information from the management server about a predetermined water flow state, for example, waste water, which is appropriately required. It is also possible to control each valve, electrolytic tank, etc. at a desired timing so that the water flow state can be realized, and similarly, the user gives an instruction to the management server with a communication terminal or the like. Then, the water flow state can be changed by the instruction information from the management server, and the desired water flow can be performed by remote operation.

(Fourth Embodiment of the present invention)
In the water supply device management system according to the first embodiment, the management server 90 utilizes the detection result of the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge 12 and the water flow time obtained by the water supply device 10 to use the water purification cartridge 12 The water flow rate per unit time is acquired, and the change over time of the water flow rate is monitored as it is to certify the degree of deterioration of the water purification cartridge 12, but it is not limited to this, and the management server 90 can be used. The time-dependent change in the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge 12 per unit time is continuously monitored to determine the presence or absence of cyclically repeated changes in the amount of water flowing, and if there is a periodic change, the unit time. Regarding the change over time in the amount of water flow per unit time, the change over time after excluding the change that appears in the same way in a predetermined repetition cycle is measured, and the degree of decrease in the amount of water flow per unit time is obtained to determine the degree of deterioration of the water purification cartridge. It can also be certified or configured to estimate the quality of raw water.

In this case, the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge per unit time based on the amount of water flowing to the water purification cartridge 12 is affected by the change over time in the amount of clean water supplied as raw water, but the water supply is supplied. Changes in water supply may be affected by, for example, the large amount of clean water used at a specific time of the day, or the decrease in water use by companies, etc., except on weekdays during the week. Since there is a strong tendency for specific changes to be repeated periodically, such as seasonal fluctuations such as appearances and seasonal fluctuations such as high water use in summer and low water use in winter, it is affected by such periodic changes in the amount of water supplied. , The change in the amount of water flowed to the water purification cartridge over time also causes a periodic change in the amount of water flow, and we pay attention to the same change that appears periodically in the change in the amount of water flow over time. By removing it from the change over time, it is possible to obtain the change over time in the amount of water flow that correctly reflects the effects of deterioration such as clogging in the water purification cartridge, correctly certify the deterioration state of the water purification cartridge, and determine the replacement time. The replacement can be promoted at an appropriate timing, which enhances the user's sense of security and improves the reliability of water treatment.

1 Water supply device management system 10 Water supply device 10a Main body 10b Faucet 11 Water supply side switching valve 12 Water purification cartridge 13 Flow sensor 14, 15 Switching valve 16 Electrolytic tank 17a Water discharge flow path 17b Discharge flow path 17c Bypass water passage 17d Branch Pipeline 18 Display unit 19 Operation unit 20 Control unit 25 Communication means 50 Pipeline 80 Communication terminal 81 Display device 82 Input device 83 Wireless communication means 84 Communication connection means 90 Management server 100 Network

Claims (9)

In a water supply device that supplies treated water obtained by subjecting raw water to a predetermined treatment
A replaceable water purification cartridge that purifies the passing raw water,
At least a flow rate measuring means that can measure the amount of water that has passed through the water purification cartridge,
It is equipped with a notification means capable of executing a predetermined notification regarding the state of the water supply device to the user.
Based on the water usage information including at least the amount of water flowing through the water purification cartridge obtained based on the measurement by the flow rate measuring means, it is determined whether or not the water purification cartridge is in an appropriate usage state, and the water purification cartridge is in an appropriate usage state. If it is determined that there is no such condition, it will shift from the normal state where the water supply can be supplied without restrictions to the emergency state where the supply of treated water is restricted, and at the same time, it will indicate to the user that the water purification cartridge is in an inappropriate usage state. A water supply device characterized by performing notification of. A water supply device that supplies treated water obtained by subjecting raw water to a predetermined treatment,
A management server that is connected to a predetermined network, acquires various information related to water supply by the water supply device via the network, and records and stores the obtained information for each water supply device. With
Communication via the network of a replaceable water purification cartridge in which the water supply device purifies the passing raw water, a flow rate measuring means capable of measuring at least the amount of water passing through the water purification cartridge, and the management server. , Or a communication means capable of communicating with a communication terminal capable of transmitting and receiving data by connecting to the network, and a notification means capable of executing a predetermined notification regarding the state of the water supply device to the user. The water usage information including at least the amount of water flowing through the water purification cartridge obtained based on the measurement by the flow rate measuring means is transmitted to the management server by the communication means.
The management server receives the water usage information via the network, determines whether or not the water purification cartridge of the water supply device is in an appropriate usage state based on the water usage information for each water supply device, and is appropriate. If it is determined that it is not in use, the regulation information related to the water supply of the corresponding water supply device is transmitted to the water supply device.
When the water supply device receives the regulation information from the management server, it shifts from a normal state in which the supply of treated water can be performed without limitation to an emergency state in which a predetermined limit is applied to the supply of treated water, and the water purification cartridge is inappropriate. A water supply device management system characterized by executing a predetermined notification indicating that the user is in a normal use state. In the water supply device management system according to claim 2.
The management server registers in advance a predetermined communication terminal used by the user of the water supply device, and enables communication with the communication terminal via the network.
The management server transmits the regulation information to the water supply device, and the water purification cartridge of the water supply device is in an improper use state for the communication terminal corresponding to the user of the water supply device, so that the treated water is treated. A water supply device management system characterized by transmitting information for causing a communication terminal to notify that a supply is restricted. In the water supply device management system according to claim 3,
The management server notifies the communication terminal corresponding to the user of the water supply device to the effect that the restriction of the treated water supply in the water supply device is released by the replacement of the water purification cartridge by the user. A water supply management system characterized by further transmission of information to be performed by. In the water supply device management system according to claim 3 or 4.
The management server causes the communication terminal to notify that the restriction of the treated water supply in the water supply device can be released by the purchase of a new water purification cartridge by the user, and is related to the purchase of the water purification cartridge by the user. Information for causing the communication terminal to provide the user interface for input is transmitted to the communication terminal, and the information is transmitted to the communication terminal.
Further, when the management server causes the communication terminal that has received the input to purchase the water purification cartridge by the user to transmit the information indicating the execution of the purchase of the water purification cartridge by the user to the management server and receives the information. A water supply device management system, characterized in that the water supply device is transmitted with deregulation information for causing the water supply device to return from the emergency state to the normal state for at least a predetermined period of time. In the water supply device management system according to any one of claims 2 to 5.
The management server acquires and records the cumulative water flow rate from the previous replacement of the water purification cartridge for each water supply device based on the water usage information, and the cumulative water flow rate corresponds to the usage limit of the water purification cartridge. A state in which the preset upper limit of the amount of water flow is not exceeded is treated as an appropriate usage state of the water purification cartridge.
When the management server determines whether or not the cumulative water flow rate exceeds the predetermined upper limit value and determines that the cumulative water flow rate exceeds the predetermined upper limit value and the water purification cartridge is not in an appropriate usage state, the regulation information is displayed. A water supply management system characterized by sending to a water supply. In the water supply device management system according to any one of claims 2 to 6.
The management server acquires and monitors the amount of water flowing through the water purification cartridge of the water supply device per unit time, and the amount of water flowing per unit time is a preset unit corresponding to the usage limit of the water purification cartridge. A state in which the water flow rate does not fall below a predetermined lower limit value per hour is treated as an appropriate usage state of the water purification cartridge.
When the management server determines whether or not the water flow rate per unit time is below the predetermined lower limit value and determines that the water flow rate per unit time is lower than the predetermined lower limit value and the water purification cartridge is not in an appropriate usage state. A water supply device management system characterized by transmitting the regulation information to a water supply device. In the water supply device management system according to any one of claims 2 to 7.
The water supply device includes a recording medium in which subscriber identification information corresponding to the user of the water supply device is recorded in advance.
Each time the user of the water supply device purchases a water purification cartridge, the management server validates the subscriber identification information of the recording medium for a period corresponding to the usable period until the usage limit of the water purification cartridge is reached. To extend the period,
The water supply device is capable of communicating with the management server while the subscriber identification information of the recording medium is valid, while the treated water can be supplied without limitation when the subscriber identification information is no longer valid. A water supply device characterized by shifting from a state to an emergency state in which a predetermined limit is applied to the supply of treated water, and at the same time, performing a predetermined notification indicating to the user that the water purification cartridge is in an improper use state. Management system. In the water supply device management system according to any one of claims 2 to 8.
The water purification cartridge of the water supply device integrally has a recording medium on which subscriber identification information corresponding to the user of the water supply device is recorded in advance.
The recording medium is set so that the valid period of the subscriber identification information corresponds to the usable period until the usage limit of the water purification cartridge is reached.
The water supply device is capable of communicating with the management server while the subscriber identification information of the recording medium is valid, while the treated water can be supplied without limitation when the subscriber identification information is no longer valid. A water supply device characterized by shifting from a state to an emergency state in which a predetermined limit is applied to the supply of treated water, and at the same time, performing a predetermined notification indicating to the user that the water purification cartridge is in an improper use state. Management system.

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