JP7471598B2 - Water discharge nozzle - Google Patents

Description

This disclosure relates to a water discharge nozzle.

Water discharge nozzles are known for use in a variety of applications. The structure, water shape, water pressure, etc. can be selected according to the application.

Utility Model Registration No. 3189703 discloses a spray frame structure that can change the spray range at multiple angles. JP Patent Publication No. 2018-43215 discloses a variable spray nozzle unit that combines a spray head and a pipe joint.

Utility Model Registration No. 3189703 JP 2018-43215 A

The inventors have found room for improvement in conventional water discharge nozzles. The inventors have discovered a new structure that further enhances the convenience of water discharge nozzles.

This disclosure provides a highly convenient water discharge nozzle.

In one embodiment, the water discharge nozzle comprises a head portion including a water discharge port, a grip portion, and a water-passing extension portion extending between the head portion and the grip portion. The head portion has a first portion connected to the water-passing extension portion, and a second portion connected to the first portion by a rotary joint portion. The water discharge angle is configured to change by rotation of the rotary joint portion. The rotary joint portion has a positioning mechanism that increases the rotational resistance at a plurality of rotation positions. The positioning mechanism has a plurality of engagement recesses formed on the outer peripheral surface of the rotary joint portion centered on the rotation axis, and an engagement protrusion that is biased in the protruding direction by a biasing member and selectively engages with one of the plurality of engagement recesses to specify the rotation position. The direction of the engagement protrusion is along the direction line of the water flow at the portion where the engagement protrusion is provided. At all of the rotation positions, the direction line of the water flow flowing into the rotary joint portion and the direction line of the water flow flowing out of the rotary joint portion are located on the same plane.

In another aspect, the water discharge nozzle comprises a head portion including a water discharge port, a grip portion, and a water-passing extension portion extending between the head portion and the grip portion. The head portion has a first portion connected to the water-passing extension portion, a second portion connected to the first portion by a first rotary joint portion, and a third portion connected to the second portion by a second rotary joint portion and including the water discharge port. The water discharge angle is configured to be adjusted by rotation of the first rotary joint portion. The water discharge angle is configured to be changed by rotation of the second rotary joint portion. The rotation axis of the first rotary joint portion is different from the rotation axis of the second rotary joint portion.

In one aspect, a highly convenient water discharge nozzle can be provided.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the entire water-discharging nozzle of one embodiment. Figures 2(a), 2(b) and 2(c) are side views of the water-spouting nozzle of Figure 1. In Figure 2(b), the first rotary joint part is rotated to change the water-spouting angle compared to Figure 2(a). In Figure 2(c), the second rotary joint part is rotated to change the water-spouting angle compared to Figure 2(b). FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the head portion and its vicinity in FIG. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the water-discharging nozzle with the head portion disassembled. FIG. 5 is an enlarged view showing a part of the exploded perspective view in FIG. 6(a) is a perspective view of the main part of the head unit, FIG. 6(b) is a right side view thereof, FIG. 6(c) is a left side view thereof, and FIG. 6(d) is a bottom view thereof. 7(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 6(c), and FIG. 7(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 6(d). 8(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG. 6(c), and FIG. 8(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line DD in FIG. 6(b).

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

In this application, the terms "annular", "cylinder", "cylindrical portion", "outer circumference", "outer circumference surface", etc. do not mean limited to cases where the ring is formed over the entire circumference (360°) in the circumferential direction, but also include cases where the ring is formed partially in the circumferential direction (less than 360°).

Figure 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a water-discharging nozzle 2. The water-discharging nozzle 2 has a grip portion 4, a water-passing extension portion 6, and a head portion 8.

The grip portion 4 has a gripping surface 4a, a water discharge stop switching operation portion 4b, a water volume adjustment operation portion 4c, and a connection portion 4d. The gripping surface 4a is held by the user's hand. The water discharge stop switching operation portion 4b can be operated to switch between water stop and water discharge. The water discharge stop switching operation portion 4b constitutes a switching lever. The water discharge stop switching operation portion 4b is operated by pressing. The user can operate the water discharge stop switching operation portion 4b with one hand while holding the gripping surface 4a with the other hand. Water discharge and water stop are switched each time the water discharge stop switching operation portion 4b is pressed. The water volume adjustment operation portion 4c can adjust the water discharge volume by operation. The water volume adjustment operation portion 4c can adjust the water discharge volume by rotating operation. The water volume adjustment operation portion 4c is a dial type. The water volume adjustment operation portion 4c may be, for example, a lever type. The connection part 4d is connected to, for example, a hose.

The water-passing extension 6 extends between the head portion 8 and the grip portion 4. The water-passing extension 6 has a hollow structure. The water-passing extension 6 has a pipe portion 6a. The inner and outer diameters of the pipe portion 6a are constant. The inner and/or outer diameters of the pipe portion 6a may vary. The pipe portion 6a extends straight. The pipe portion 6a may be curved.

The head portion 8 has a water outlet 8a and a rotary joint portion 8b. The head portion 8 has a first rotary joint portion J1 and a second rotary joint portion J2 as the rotary joint portion 8b. The second rotary joint portion J2 is located downstream of the first rotary joint portion J1. The second rotary joint portion J2 is closer to the water outlet 8a than the first rotary joint portion J1. In this embodiment, the head portion 8 has multiple (two) rotary joint portions 8b. That is, the number of rotary joint portions 8b is two. The number of rotary joint portions 8b may be one. The number of rotary joint portions 8b may be three or more.

The first rotary joint part J1 is a pipe joint. The first rotary joint part J1 is a fluid joint. The second rotary joint part J2 is a pipe joint. The second rotary joint part J2 is a fluid joint.

Water is introduced from the connection part 4d, passes through the grip part 4, the water-passing extension part 6 and the head part 8, and is discharged from the water outlet 8a. In the head part 8, the water passes through the rotary joint part 8b (first rotary joint part J1, second rotary joint part J2). The rotary joint part 8b is watertight. The angle of the water outlet 8a can be adjusted by the rotary joint part 8b. The water outlet angle can be adjusted by the rotary joint part 8b. The water outlet angle is the angle of the water outlet direction. This angle is the angle with respect to the part other than the head part 8 in the water outlet nozzle 2, and can be, for example, the angle with respect to the center line of the pipe part 6a. The water outlet direction can be the direction of the center line of the shape of the water outlet (water shape). For example, if the water shape is a conical shower, the center line of this cone can be the water outlet direction. In this embodiment, the water outlet direction D1 is the center line of the water outlet 8a (water outlet screen).

The first rotary joint part J1 has a first rotation axis ax1. The second rotary joint part J2 has a second rotation axis ax2. In FIG. 1, the rotation axis ax1 and the rotation axis ax2 are indicated by dashed lines. The rotation axis ax1 does not coincide with the rotation axis ax2. The rotation axis ax1 is not parallel to the rotation axis ax2. The angle between the rotation axis ax1 and the rotation axis ax2 is not 0°. The rotation axis ax1 intersects with the rotation axis ax2. The rotation axis ax1 does not have to intersect with the rotation axis ax2.

In this embodiment, the angle between the rotation axis ax1 and the rotation axis ax2 is 90°. If this angle is other than 90°, the obtuse angle is not adopted, and the acute angle is adopted. Therefore, this angle is an acute angle or 90°. In other words, this angle ranges from greater than 0° to less than 90°. From the viewpoint of the degree of freedom of the angle of the water outlet 8a, the angle between the rotation axis ax1 and the rotation axis ax2 is preferably 30° or more, more preferably 45° or more, more preferably 60° or more, and more preferably 75° or more. From the viewpoint of the degree of freedom of the water outlet angle, this angle is particularly preferably 90°.

Figures 2(a), 2(b) and 2(c) are side views of the water discharge nozzle 2. Figure 2(a) is a side view of the water discharge nozzle 2 in the same state as in Figure 1. Figure 2(b) shows a state in which the first rotary joint J1 has been rotated 90° with respect to Figure 2(a). Figure 2(c) shows a state in which the first rotary joint J1 has been rotated 90° and the second rotary joint J2 has been rotated 180° with respect to Figure 2(a). The water discharge direction D1 changes due to rotation at the first rotary joint J1. In addition, the water discharge direction D1 changes due to rotation at the second rotary joint J2. The rotation of the first rotary joint J1 and the rotation of the second rotary joint J2 are combined to increase the degree of freedom in adjusting the water discharge direction D1.

Figure 3 is an enlarged view of the head portion 8 in Figure 2(a). The head portion 8 has a first portion P1, a second portion P2, and a third portion P3. These portions P1 to P3 are divided based on the movements of the first rotary joint portion J1 and the second rotary joint portion J2.

The first part P1 is connected to the water-permeable extension part 6. The first part P1 is a part that does not rotate by the rotation R1 at the first rotary joint part J1. The second part P2 is a part that rotates by the rotation R1 at the first rotary joint part J1 and does not rotate by the rotation R2 at the second rotary joint part J2. The third part P3 is a part that rotates by the rotation R2 at the second rotary joint part J2. The third part P3 rotates together with the second part P2 by the rotation R1 at the first rotary joint part J1. The second part P2 is located downstream of the first part P1. The third part P3 is located downstream of the second part P2. The second rotary joint part J2 is located downstream of the first rotary joint part J1. The second part P2 is connected to the first part P1 by the first rotary joint part J1. The third part P3 is connected to the second part P2 by a second rotary joint J2. The third part P3 has a water outlet 8a.

The rotation R1 of the first rotary joint J1 rotates the second rotary joint J2. That is, the rotation R1 of the first rotary joint J1 changes the orientation of the rotation axis ax2. The two rotation axes ax1 and ax2 increase the degree of freedom in adjusting the water discharge direction D1.

Figure 4 is a perspective view of the water-discharging nozzle 2 with the head portion 8 disassembled. Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the head portion 8 (referred to as the main portion 8c). Figure 6(a) is a perspective view of the main portion 8c, Figure 6(b) is a right side view of the main portion 8c, Figure 6(c) is a left side view of the main portion 8c, and Figure 6(d) is a bottom view of the main portion 8c. Figure 7(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in Figure 6(c). Figure 7(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in Figure 6(d). Figure 8(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C in Figure 6(c). Figure 8(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D in Figure 6(b). The main portion 8c includes the rotating structure of the first rotary joint portion J1 and the second rotary joint portion J2.

The first rotary joint J1 is formed between the upstream member 10 and the intermediate member 12. The upstream member 10 constitutes the first portion P1 of the head portion 8. The intermediate member 12 constitutes the second portion P2 of the head portion 8. In the first rotary joint J1, the upstream member 10 and the intermediate member 12 are watertightly connected in a state in which they can rotate relative to each other. The intermediate member 12 can rotate relative to the upstream member 10 while maintaining a watertight state. This rotation is rotation R1 around the rotation axis ax1 (see FIG. 3).

The first rotary joint J1 has a part of the upstream member 10 (the rotary connection receiving portion 24 described below), a part of the intermediate member 12 (the rotary connection portion 48 described below), an outer seal 14, an inner seal 16, a slip washer 18, a screw 20, and a cover 22. The outer seal 14 and the inner seal 16 are annular seal members. The outer seal 14 and the inner seal 16 are O-rings.

The upstream member 10 (first portion P1) has a rotating connection receiving portion 24 and a base portion 26. The rotating connection receiving portion 24 is generally cylindrical. The base portion 26 constitutes a tubular connection portion, and its interior is a flow path. A threaded portion (male thread) is formed on the outer surface of the base portion 26. The base portion 26 is connected to a head connection portion 28 (see FIG. 4) provided at the end of the pipe portion 6a on the head portion 8 side. Although not shown, a threaded portion (female thread) is formed on the inner surface of the head connection portion 28. The base portion 26 is connected to the head connection portion 28 by a screw connection. The base portion 26 has a center line CL1. This center line CL1 coincides with the center line CL2 of the flow path W1 inside the base portion 26 (threaded portion forming portion). The center line CL2 is the center line of the inner circumferential surface 26a of the base portion 26.

As shown in Figures 7(a) and 8(a), the rotational connection receiving portion 24 has a shaft support hole 30 and a shaft support portion 32.

The shaft support portion 32 constitutes a cylindrical wall portion. A shaft support hole 30 is formed inside the shaft support portion 32. The center lines of the shaft support hole 30 and the shaft support portion 32 coincide with the rotation axis ax1. Furthermore, the rotation connection receiving portion 24 has an annular gap 34, an outer peripheral wall portion 36, and an outer peripheral surface 38. The annular gap 34 is formed between the outer peripheral wall portion 36 (second cylindrical portion 42) and the shaft support portion 32. The outer peripheral wall portion 36 has a first cylindrical portion 40 and a second cylindrical portion 42. The first cylindrical portion 40 is open to one side in the direction of the rotation axis ax1 (upper side in FIG. 7(a)). The second cylindrical portion 42 is open to the other side in the direction of the rotation axis ax1 (lower side in FIG. 7(a)). The outer peripheral surface 38 is the outer surface of the outer peripheral wall portion 36 (first cylindrical portion 40). The outer peripheral surface 38 is exposed to the outside. However, the portion of the outer circumferential surface 38 that is covered by the opposing surface portion 142 (described later) is not exposed to the outside. The center line of the outer circumferential surface 38 coincides with the rotation axis ax1.

The outer peripheral surface 38 has a plurality of engagement recesses 44. The engagement recesses 44 are arranged at a plurality of positions in the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral surface 38. The engagement recesses 44 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral surface 38. All of the engagement recesses 44 have the same relative relationship with respect to the rotation axis ax1. That is, all of the engagement recesses 44 have the same shape, are the same distance from the rotation axis ax1, and are arranged in the same direction with respect to the rotation axis ax1. The inner diameter of the second cylindrical portion 42 is larger than the inner diameter of the first cylindrical portion 40. The outer diameter of the second cylindrical portion 42 is equal to the outer diameter of the first cylindrical portion 40. The engagement recesses 44 are exposed to the outside. However, as described later, some of the engagement recesses 44 are not exposed to the outside when covered by the opposing surface portion 142 whose angular position changes depending on the rotation R1.

The intermediate member 12 (second portion P2) has a rotating connection portion 48 and an extension portion 50. The rotating connection portion 48 is fitted into the rotating connection receiving portion 24 of the upstream member 10 via the outer seal 14 and the inner seal 16. The rotating connection portion 48 is connected to the rotating connection receiving portion 24 of the upstream member 10 so as to be rotatable while maintaining watertightness and water permeability.

As shown in FIG. 8(a), the rotational connection portion 48 has a shaft portion 52, an outer peripheral wall portion 54, and an annular gap 56.

The center line of the shaft portion 52 coincides with the rotation axis ax1. The shaft portion 52 functions as a central axis in the rotation R1 of the intermediate member 12 (second part P2) relative to the upstream member 10 (first part P1). The shaft portion 52 is inserted into the shaft support hole 30, and the shaft portion 52 rotates inside the shaft support portion 32. A screw hole 58 is formed in the shaft portion 52. The center line of the screw hole 58 is the rotation axis ax1. The screw 20 is screwed to the shaft portion 52 inserted into the shaft support hole 30. The screw 20 rotates together with the rotation connection portion 48 (intermediate member 12). A slip washer 18 is disposed between the head 20a of the screw 20 and the end face of the shaft support portion 32. The slip washer 18 reduces the coefficient of friction between the head 20a of the screw 20 and the shaft support portion 32. The screw 20 rotatably connects the rotation connection portion 48 to the rotation connection receiving portion 24. The screw 20 maintains the relative axial position between the rotary connection receiver 24 and the rotary connection portion 48 while allowing the rotary connection portion 48 to rotate relative to the rotary connection receiver 24. Fastening members other than the screw 20 may be used.

The outer peripheral wall portion 54 is open to one side in the direction of the rotation axis ax1 (the upper side in FIG. 8(a)). The outer peripheral wall portion 54 has a first cylindrical portion 58 and a second cylindrical portion 60. The second cylindrical portion 60 forms the opening edge of the outer peripheral wall portion 54. The outer diameter of the second cylindrical portion 60 is smaller than the outer diameter of the first cylindrical portion 58. A step surface 62 is formed at the boundary between the outer surface of the second cylindrical portion 60 and the outer surface of the first cylindrical portion 58. The end face of the second cylindrical portion 42 abuts against the step surface 62.

The annular gap 56 is formed between the outer peripheral wall portion 54 and the shaft portion 52.

The second cylindrical portion 60 of the outer peripheral wall portion 54 is inserted inside the second cylindrical portion 42 of the outer peripheral wall portion 36. An outer seal 14 is disposed between the second cylindrical portion 60 and the second cylindrical portion 42. An inner seal 16 is disposed between the shaft portion 52 and the shaft support portion 32. The cover 22 covers the rotation connection receiving portion 24 on one side in the direction of the rotation axis ax1 (the upper side in FIG. 8(a)). The cover 22 covers the head portion 20a of the screw 20.

The rotary connection receiver 24 and the rotary connection 48 form an annular flow passage 64. When the rotary connection receiver 24 and the rotary connection 48 are assembled, the annular gap 34 and the annular gap 56 are connected while overlapping at least partially. As a result, the annular flow passage 64 is formed. The outside of the annular flow passage 64 is sealed by the outer seal 14. The inside of the annular flow passage 64 is sealed by the inner seal 16.

In this way, the first rotary joint part J1 is formed by combining the rotary connection receiving part 24 having the annular gap 34 with the rotary connection part 48 having the annular gap 56 to form the annular flow passage 64, and sealing the inside and outside of the annular flow passage 64 with the annular seal members 16, 14. The first rotary joint part J1 has a cylindrical connection part 66 formed by the rotary connection receiving part 24 of the first part P1 and the rotary connection part 48 of the second part P2.

The second rotary joint J2 is formed between the intermediate member 12 (extension portion 50) and the downstream member 70. The downstream member 70 constitutes the third portion P3 of the head portion 8. The second rotary joint J2 connects the intermediate member 12 (second portion P2) and the downstream member 70 (third portion P3) in a watertight manner so as to be rotatable relative to each other. The downstream member 70 can rotate relative to the intermediate member 12 while maintaining a watertight state. This rotation is rotation R2 around the rotation axis ax2 (see FIG. 3). The intermediate member 12 has a portion belonging to the first rotary joint J1 and a portion belonging to the second rotary joint J2.

The second rotary joint part J2 has a part of the intermediate member 12 (extension part 50), a part of the downstream member 70, an outer seal 72, an inner seal 74, and an elastic ring 76. The outer seal 72 and the inner seal 74 are annular seal members. The outer seal 72 and the inner seal 74 are O-rings.

The extension portion 50 extends from the outside of the rotary connection portion 48 toward the water outlet 8a. The extension portion 50 has an outer wall portion 80. The outer wall portion 80 has an inner circumferential surface 82 and an outer circumferential surface 84. The center line CL4 of the outer circumferential surface 84 coincides with the rotation axis ax2. The inner circumferential surface 82 defines a flow path W2 inside the extension portion 50. The center line CL5 of the flow path W2 coincides with the rotation axis ax2. The center line CL5 is the center line of the inner circumferential surface 82.

A groove 86 is formed in the outer peripheral surface 84 along the circumferential direction (see FIG. 5). As shown in FIG. 8(b), through holes 90 are provided at multiple locations (three locations) in the groove 86, penetrating the outer wall portion 80 from the bottom surface 88 of the groove 86.

The elastic ring 76 is an annular member with ends. As shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. 8(b), the elastic ring 76 has a first end 92, a second end 94, a base 96 that extends in an annular shape from the first end 92 to the second end 94, and protrusions 98 that protrude from multiple points (three points) on the base 96 toward the inside of the elastic ring 76.

The elastic ring 76 can be elastically deformed by an external force. The elastic ring 76 can be deformed so that the distance between the first end 92 and the second end 94 increases and the curvature of the base 96 decreases. This deformation is also called an expansion deformation.

The downstream member 70 is generally tubular. The interior of the downstream member 70 forms a flow path W3. The center line CL3 of the flow path W3 coincides with the rotation axis ax2. The outer peripheral surface of the downstream member 70 has a seal groove 100 and an engagement groove 102. The seal groove 100 extends along the circumferential direction of the downstream member 70. An outer seal 72 is disposed in the seal groove 100. The engagement groove 102 extends along the circumferential direction of the downstream member 70.

The upstream portion of the downstream member 70 is inserted inside the extension portion 50. The portion of the downstream member 70 (third portion P3) where the seal groove 100 and engagement groove 102 are formed is inserted inside the extension portion 50 (second portion P2). As shown in Figures 7(a) and 7(b), the outer seal 72 attached to the seal groove 100 is in close contact with the inner surface 82 of the extension portion 50. The engagement groove 102 is disposed inside the groove 86. The axial positions of the engagement groove 102 and groove 86 are the same.

As shown in FIG. 5, the downstream member 70 (third portion P3) has an exposed outer surface 104 with a noncircular cross section. The exposed outer surface 104 is not inserted into the extension portion 50 and is exposed to the outside. The exposed outer surface 104 can be manipulated to rotate the third portion P3 around the rotation axis ax2. The exposed outer surface 104 has recesses 106 at predetermined intervals in its circumferential direction. These recesses 106 facilitate the rotational operation. Examples of the shape of the exposed outer surface 104 with a noncircular cross section include a shape with protrusions at predetermined intervals in its circumferential direction, and a prism shape with a polygonal cross section. This noncircular cross section facilitates the rotational operation.

The width of the groove 86 is greater than the width of the elastic ring 76. The elastic ring 76 is fitted into the groove 86 of the extension portion 50. During this fitting, the elastic ring 76 is expanded and deformed. The elastic ring 76, which has been expanded and deformed by an external force, is placed over the groove 86, and the external force is released, so that the elastic ring 76 is fitted into the groove 86. At this time, the phase of the elastic ring 76 is adjusted so that the position of each protrusion 98 coincides with the position of each through hole 90. Each of the protrusions 98 penetrates each of the through holes 90 and reaches the engagement groove 102. As a result, each of the protrusions 98 engages with the engagement groove 102.

The downstream member 70 (third part P3) can rotate around the rotation axis ax2. The downstream member 70 is rotatably connected to the extension portion 50 by the elastic ring 76. When the downstream member 70 is rotated, the protrusion 98 can move within the engagement groove 102. Therefore, the elastic ring 76 does not hinder the rotation of the downstream member 70 relative to the extension portion 50. On the other hand, the engagement between the protrusion 98 and the engagement groove 102 prevents the downstream member 70 from moving in the axial direction relative to the extension portion 50. This axial direction means the direction of the rotation axis ax2. The elastic ring 76 allows the downstream member 70 to rotate relative to the extension portion 50, while maintaining the relative position in the axial direction between the extension portion 50 and the downstream member 70. Regardless of the rotation position of the downstream member 70, the outer seal 72 is in close contact with the inner peripheral surface 82. Therefore, the downstream member 70 can rotate around the rotation axis ax2 while maintaining watertightness.

In this way, the second rotary joint part J2 has an elastic engagement member (elastic ring 76) that holds the axial position (direction of the rotation axis ax2) by engagement with the engagement groove 102, and a tubular seal member 72 that can maintain watertightness when rotating around the rotation axis ax2. Therefore, in the second rotary joint part J2, the third part P3 can rotate around the rotation axis ax2 relative to the second part P2 while maintaining watertightness.

As shown in FIG. 1, the head unit 8 has a water discharge unit 110. The water discharge unit 110 constitutes the tip of the head unit 8. The water discharge unit 110 has a water discharge port 8a. The water discharge unit 110 constitutes the third part P3. As shown in FIG. 4, the water discharge unit 110 has a main body 112, a screen forming part 114, and a seal member 116. The screen forming part 114 has a water discharge port 8a with a number of shower holes. This water discharge unit 110 is attached to the downstream side of the downstream member 70. The water discharge unit 110 is detachably attached to the downstream member 70. This attachment/detachment mechanism is a screw mechanism. When attached to the downstream member 70, the water discharge unit 110 is fixed to the downstream member 70. The water discharge unit 110 and the downstream member 70 rotate together as the third part P3.

The main body 112 of the water discharge portion 110 has a male thread portion 118. On the other hand, as shown in Figures 7(a) and 7(b), the downstream member 70 has a female thread portion 120. The male thread portion 118 is screwed into the female thread portion 120, thereby fixing the water discharge portion 110 to the downstream member 70. A seal member 122 is disposed between the water discharge portion 110 and the downstream member 70. The water discharge portion 110 is attached to the downstream member 70 in a watertight manner.

In this embodiment, the water discharge part 110 can be replaced. The water discharge nozzle 2 may be a water discharge nozzle with a replaceable water discharge part. A replaceable water discharge part 124 is shown in FIG. 1. The replaceable water discharge part 124 does not have to be provided. The water discharge part 110 does not have to be replaceable. The water discharge part 110 may be fixed to the downstream member 70 so that it cannot be removed. For example, the water discharge part 110 may be integrally formed with the downstream member 70.

As FIG. 3 clearly shows, the water discharge direction D1 does not coincide with the rotation axis ax2. The water discharge direction D1 is not parallel to the rotation axis ax2. The water discharge direction D1 is inclined with respect to the rotation axis ax2. When the downstream member 70 rotates around the rotation axis ax2, the water discharge section 110 also rotates around the rotation axis ax2. As can be understood from a comparison between FIG. 2(b) and FIG. 2(c), the water discharge direction D1 changes due to the rotation of the downstream member 70 around the rotation axis ax2.

As explained above, in the first rotary joint J1, the intermediate member 12 rotates around the rotation axis ax1 relative to the upstream member 10. That is, in the first rotary joint J1, the second part P2 rotates around the rotation axis ax1 relative to the first part P1. Also, in the second rotary joint J2, the downstream member 70 rotates around the rotation axis ax2 relative to the intermediate member 12. That is, in the second rotary joint J2, the third part P3 rotates around the rotation axis ax2 relative to the second part P2. The rotation axis ax1 and the rotation axis ax2 are different. By rotating around these two axes ax1 and ax2, it is also possible to adjust the water discharge direction D1 three-dimensionally. In the head part 8, the degree of freedom in adjusting the water discharge direction D1 is high.

The first rotary joint J1 has a positioning mechanism that increases the rotational resistance of the rotation R1 at multiple rotational positions. The rotational position refers to the relative relationship between the first part P1 and the second part P2 that changes with the rotation R1, in other words, the angle between the first part P1 and the second part P2.

As described above, a plurality of engagement recesses 44 are formed on the outer peripheral surface 38 (see FIG. 7(b)). On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 7(b), the extension portion 50 has an engagement protrusion 126, a biasing member 128, and a guide hole 130. The extension direction of the guide hole 130 is parallel to the rotation axis ax2. The guide hole 130 is formed by a cylindrical wall portion 132. The engagement protrusion 126 and the biasing member 128 are accommodated in the guide hole 130. A flow path W3 is formed around the cylindrical wall portion 132. The engagement protrusion 126 and the biasing member 128 are arranged so that the flow path W3 is formed around them while being watertightly isolated from the flow path W3. The biasing member 128 is located downstream of the engagement protrusion 126. The engagement protrusion 126 is constantly biased upstream (toward the engagement recess 44) by the biasing member 128. The engaging protrusion 126 is constantly biased in the protruding direction by the biasing member 128. The guide hole 130 has an opening 134 on one side (upstream side) and an opening 136 on the other side (downstream side). The opening 134 is an opening on the side of the engaging recess 44. The tip of the engaging protrusion 126 can protrude from the opening 134. When any of the engaging recesses 44 comes in front of the opening 134, the engaging protrusion 126 moves in the protruding direction, and the tip of the engaging protrusion 126 enters the engaging recess 44. That is, the engaging protrusion 126 engages with the engaging recess 44. When the engaging recess 44 moves away from the front of the opening 134, the engaging protrusion 126 is pushed by the outer circumferential surface 38 and moved in the retracting direction. That is, the engagement between the engaging protrusion 126 and the engaging recess 44 is released.

When the engaging protrusion 126 engages with the engaging recess 44, the rotational resistance of the rotation R1 increases compared to when the engagement does not occur and the engaging protrusion 126 abuts against the outer circumferential surface 38. This increase in rotational resistance has the effect of specifying the position of the second portion P2 relative to the first portion P1. A single rotational position is specified by selectively engaging the engaging protrusion 126 with one of the multiple engaging recesses 44.

The opening 136 is closed by the blocking portion 140. The blocking portion 140 also supports the upstream end of the biasing member 128. An inner seal 74 is disposed between the blocking portion 140 and the guide hole 130. This inner seal 74 prevents water from entering the guide hole 130. If water enters the guide hole 130, the water may leak out from the opening 134. The inner seal 74 prevents water from leaking from the opening 134. When the downstream member 70 (third part P3) rotates relative to the intermediate member 12 (second part P2), the blocking portion 140 rotates relative to the guide hole 130. The inner seal 74 is disposed between these relatively rotating members and maintains watertightness during this rotation. The inner seal 74 is an annular seal member (O-ring). The center line of the inner seal 74 coincides with the rotation axis ax2.

The blocking portion 140 is integral with the downstream member 70 (see FIG. 7(b)). Simply inserting the downstream member 70 into the extension portion 50 closes the opening 136 with the blocking portion 140. This configuration makes assembly easier and reduces the number of parts compared to when the blocking portion 140 is a separate member. In addition, the engaging protrusion 126 and the biasing member 128, which are difficult to handle, can be inserted into the guide hole 130 in the final stage of the process of assembling the downstream member 70 to the extension portion 50. This improves the ease of assembly.

In the first rotary joint J1, when any of the engaging recesses 44 engages with the engaging protrusion 126, the rotational resistance of the rotation R1 increases. That is, the rotational resistance when the engaging recesses 44 engage with the engaging protrusion 126 is greater than the rotational resistance when the engaging recesses 44 do not engage with the engaging protrusion 126. The engagement between the engaging recesses 44 and the engaging protrusion 126 functions as a positioning mechanism that increases the rotational resistance of the rotation R1 at multiple rotational positions. As shown in FIG. 7(b), the engaging recesses 44 are arranged at multiple positions in the circumferential direction of the outer circumferential surface 38. Therefore, positioning is achieved by selecting which engaging recess 44 engages with the engaging protrusion 126. Therefore, the angle of the intermediate member 12 relative to the upstream member 10 can be selected. The user can recognize a predetermined rotational position by the increase in the rotational resistance.

This positioning mechanism also produces a clicking sound. Sound is generated due to the engagement of the engagement recess 44 with the engagement protrusion 126. This sound is also referred to as a clicking sound. As in this embodiment, the clicking sound may be generated when the engagement protrusion 126 engages with the engagement recess 44. The clicking sound may be generated when the engagement protrusion 126 and the engagement recess 44 are disengaged. The clicking sound can be adjusted according to the shapes of the engagement protrusion 126 and the engagement recess 44, the materials thereof, the spring coefficient of the biasing member 128, and the like. The clicking sound allows the user to auditorily recognize a predetermined rotational position. For example, the rotational position can be recognized by the number of clicking sounds accompanying the rotation.

This positioning mechanism also generates a click vibration. Vibration occurs due to the engagement of the engagement recess 44 with the engagement protrusion 126. This vibration is also called a click vibration. The click vibration may occur when the engagement protrusion 126 engages with the engagement recess 44. The click vibration may occur when the engagement protrusion 126 and the engagement recess 44 are disengaged. The click vibration can be adjusted by the shapes of the engagement protrusion 126 and the engagement recess 44, the material of the engagement protrusion 126 and the engagement recess 44, the spring coefficient of the biasing member 128, etc. The click vibration allows the user to recognize a predetermined rotation position by touch. For example, the rotation position can be recognized by the number of click vibrations that accompany the rotation.

The rotation R2 at the second rotary joint J2 is free rotation. The downstream member 70 can rotate freely with respect to the extension portion 50 without any restriction on the rotation angle. Therefore, the water discharge direction D1 can be adjusted with a high degree of freedom by the rotation R2 at the second rotary joint J2. Of course, restrictions may be placed on this rotation R2.

In FIG. 1, the imaginary plane PL1 is indicated by a two-dot chain line. This plane PL1 is perpendicular to the rotation axis ax1. The plane PL1 is parallel to the center line CL6 (see FIG. 3) of the pipe section 6a. This plane PL1 includes the center line CL6 of the pipe section 6a. That is, the center line CL6 is on the plane PL1. The plane PL1 is parallel to the center line CL7 (see FIG. 3) of the outer surface of the first portion P1. The center line CL7 is on the plane PL1.

The plane PL1 is parallel to the center line CL1 of the base 26 (see FIG. 7(a)). The center line CL1 of the base 26 is on the plane PL1. The plane PL1 is parallel to the center line CL2 of the flow path W1 inside the base 26 (see FIG. 7(a)). The center line CL2 is on the plane PL1.

The rotation R1 at the first rotary joint J1 causes the second part P2 and the third part P3 to rotate along the plane PL1 (see FIG. 3). The rotation R1 causes the rotation axis ax2 to rotate. At all rotation positions in the rotation R1, the rotation axis ax2 is located on the plane PL1.

In rotation R1, the axis of rotation ax2 rotates along the plane PL1. In all rotation positions in rotation R1, the axis of rotation ax2 is parallel to the plane PL1. In all rotation positions in rotation R1, the axis of rotation ax2 is on the plane PL1.

During rotation R1, the center line CL3 (see FIG. 7(a)) of the flow path W3 inside the downstream member 70 rotates along the plane PL1. At all rotation positions during rotation R1, the center line CL3 is on the plane PL1.

During rotation R1, the center line CL4 (see FIG. 7(a)) of the outer peripheral surface 84 of the extension portion 50 rotates along the plane PL1. At all rotation positions during rotation R1, the center line CL4 is on the plane PL1.

During rotation R1, the center line CL5 (see FIG. 7(a)) of the flow path W2 inside the extension portion 50 rotates along the plane PL1. At all rotation positions during rotation R1, the center line CL5 is on the plane PL1.

In all rotation positions of the first rotary joint J1, a direction line F1 of the water flow entering the rotary joint J1 and a direction line F2 of the water flow exiting the rotary joint J1 are located on the same plane PL1. The direction line F1 is also called the water flow direction line F1. The direction line F2 is also called the water flow direction line F2.
It is also called 2.

The direction lines F1 and F2 are located on the same plane PL1, which suppresses bending of the flow path from the upstream side to the downstream side of the rotary joint J1. By suppressing bending of the flow path, pressure loss is suppressed.

The rotational position of the rotary joint J1 includes a rotational position where the water flow direction line F1 coincides with the water flow direction line F2. This rotational position is also referred to as the reference state. In this embodiment, in this reference state, the center line CL2 of the flow path W1 inside the base 26 coincides with the center line CL3 of the flow path W3 inside the downstream member 70 (see Figures 7(a) and 7(b)). By including the rotational position of the first rotary joint J1 in this reference state, pressure loss due to bending of the flow path can be suppressed.

The water flow direction line F1 is the center line of the flow path in the first part P1 of the head part 8. The water flow direction line F1 may be the center line of a part of the flow path in the first part P1. If there are multiple center lines in the flow path of the first part P1, the center line of the flow path with the widest cross-sectional area may be taken as the water flow direction line F1. In the above embodiment, the center line CL2 of the flow path W1 inside the base 26 may be taken as the water flow direction line F1.

The water flow direction line F2 is the center line of the flow path in the second part P2 of the head part 8. The water flow direction line F2 may be the center line of a part of the flow path in the second part P2. If there are multiple center lines in the flow path of the second part P2, the center line of the flow path with the widest cross-sectional area may be the water flow direction line F2. In the above embodiment, the center line CL5 of the flow path W2 inside the extension part 50 may be the water flow direction line F2. In the above embodiment, the center line CL3 of the flow path W3 inside the downstream member 70 may be the water flow direction line F2.

In the above-mentioned standard state, the center line CL9 of the outer surface of the first portion P1 coincides with the center line CL10 of the outer surface of the second portion P2 (see FIG. 3). This configuration reduces the apparent axial misalignment between the first portion P1 and the second portion P2. As a result, it is possible to reduce any discomfort during operation and to easily adjust the water discharge direction D1.

The center line CL9 may be the center line of the outer surface of a portion of the first portion P1. If there are multiple center lines of the outer surface of the first portion P1, the longest center line may be the center line CL9. In the above embodiment, the center line of the outer surface of the head connection portion 28 is the center line CL9.

The center line CL10 may be the center line of the outer surface of a portion of the second portion P2. If there are multiple center lines of the outer surface of the second portion P2, the longest center line may be the center line CL10. In the above embodiment, the center line CL4 of the outer peripheral surface 84 of the extension portion 50 is the center line CL10.

As shown in Figures 7(a) and 7(b), the engaging protrusion 126 moves inside the cylindrical wall portion 132. When the engaging recess 44 comes in front of the engaging protrusion 126, the engaging protrusion 126 protrudes. When the engaging recess 44 moves away from the front of the engaging protrusion 126, the engaging protrusion 126 is pressed against the outer peripheral surface 38 and retracts. The direction in which the engaging protrusion 126 protrudes and retracts is also referred to as the advancing and retracting direction.

The direction of the engagement protrusion 126 is along the water flow direction line at the location where the engagement protrusion is provided. In this embodiment, the water flow direction at the location where the engagement protrusion 126 is provided is the direction line F2. The direction of the engagement protrusion 126 is along the water flow direction line F2 flowing out from the rotary joint J1. This direction of the engagement protrusion 126 does not have to be completely parallel to the water flow direction line F2. The angle between this direction of the engagement protrusion and the water flow direction line F2 is preferably 20° or less, more preferably 10° or less, more preferably 5° or less, and more preferably 0°. In other words, this direction of the engagement protrusion is preferably parallel to the water flow direction line F2. In the above embodiment, this direction of the engagement protrusion is parallel to the water flow direction line F2.

The moving center line CL11 of the engaging protrusion 126 is preferably parallel to the water flow direction line F2. It is more preferable that the moving center line CL11 coincides with the water flow direction line F2. In this embodiment, the moving center line CL11 coincides with the water flow direction line F2. The engaging protrusion 126 has a contact area with the engaging recess 44. The trajectory line of the center point of this contact area can be the moving center line CL11. The center point of this contact area can be the centroid of the contact area in a plan view from the protruding side in the retracting direction. In this embodiment, the apex of the tip of the engaging protrusion 126 is the center point of this contact area.

As shown in FIG. 7(b), the second portion P2 (extension portion 50) has an opposing surface portion 142 that faces the outer peripheral surface 38. The opposing surface portion 142 forms a curved surface that follows the outer peripheral surface 38. The opposing surface portion 142 faces the outer peripheral surface 38 via a (slight) gap. An opening 134 is provided in the opposing surface portion 142 (see FIG. 5). The opening 134 is provided in the center of the opposing surface portion 142. The opposing surface portion 142 contributes to reducing the gap between the first portion P1 and the second portion P2. The size of this gap can be about 0.05 mm to 5 mm. The opposing surface portion 142 contributes to the miniaturization of the rotary joint portion J1.

The opposing surface portion 142 covers a portion of the outer peripheral surface 38. The outer peripheral surface 38 has a portion that is covered by the opposing surface portion 142 and a portion that is not covered by the opposing surface portion 142. The position of the area that is covered by the opposing surface portion 142 changes depending on the rotational position of the rotation R1.

Of the multiple engagement recesses 44, some of the engagement recesses 44 are covered by the opposing surface portion 142, and the remaining engagement recesses 44 are not covered by the opposing surface portion 142. Which engagement recesses 44 are not covered by the opposing surface portion 142 and are exposed to the outside depends on the rotational position of rotation R1. Which engagement recesses 44 are covered by the opposing surface portion 142 changes depending on the rotational position of rotation R1. The engagement recesses 44 that are not covered by the opposing surface portion 142 are exposed to the outside.

Foreign matter such as dirt may get into the engagement recess 44. This foreign matter reduces the engagement force between the engagement recess 44 and the engagement protrusion 126. When the engagement force between the engagement recess 44 and the engagement protrusion 126 is reduced, the rotational resistance is reduced and the positioning effect is reduced. In this case, for example, the rotational position may change on its own due to water pressure. Furthermore, foreign matter and dirt in the engagement recess 44 may reduce the sound pressure of the clicking sound and cause the frequency of the clicking sound to fluctuate, thereby reducing the notification function of the clicking sound. Furthermore, foreign matter and dirt in the engagement recess 44 may weaken the clicking vibration and reduce the notification function of the clicking vibration.

By exposing the engagement recess 44 to the outside, it becomes easier to clean the engagement recess 44. By making the engagement recess 44 easier to clean, the reliability of the positioning mechanism can be increased. In addition, by making the engagement recess 44 easier to clean, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the notification function due to clicking sounds and/or clicking vibrations.

As described above, the second portion P2 (extension portion 50) has an opposing surface portion 142 that covers some of the multiple engagement recesses 44, and which engagement recesses 44 are covered by the opposing surface portion 142 changes depending on the rotational position of the rotary joint portion J1. With this configuration, it is possible to expose more engagement recesses 44 to the outside throughout the entire rotational range of rotation R1 while miniaturizing the rotary joint portion J1.

The rotational position of the rotary joint part J1 includes a rotational position where all the engagement recesses 44 can be exposed to the outside. As shown by the two-dot chain line in FIG. 3, the second part P2 can rotate at a rotational angle θ relative to the first part P1. That is, the rotational angle of the first rotary joint part J1 is θ°. This rotational angle θ includes a rotational position where all the engagement recesses 44 are exposed to the outside. By increasing the rotational angle θ, the degree of freedom of adjustment of the water discharge direction D1 is increased, and at the same time, more engagement recesses 44 can be exposed to the outside. From this viewpoint, the rotational angle θ is preferably 155° or more, more preferably 165° or more, and more preferably 175° or more. If the rotational angle θ is too large, the dimensions of the member may be restricted, the cross-sectional area of the flow path may be reduced, and the strength of the rotary joint part J1 may be reduced. From this viewpoint, the rotational angle θ is preferably 205° or less, more preferably 195° or less, and more preferably 185° or less. Considering the balance of these viewpoints, it is more preferable that the rotation angle θ is 180°. In the above embodiment, the rotation angle θ is 180°.

The rotation angle θ has a rotation angle θ1 from the reference state to one side, and a rotation angle θ2 from the reference position to the other side. From the viewpoint of adjustability of the water discharge direction D1, the angle θ1 may be equal to the angle θ2. In the above embodiment, the angle θ1 is equal to the angle θ2.

As shown in Figures 5 and 6(c), the engagement recess 44 forms a groove that is open on one side. That is, at least one end in the extension direction of the groove is open. If foreign matter such as dirt gets into the engagement recess 44, the foreign matter can be moved along the groove and removed from the open side of the groove. By making the engagement recess 44 a groove that is open on at least one end in the extension direction, the engagement recess 44 becomes easier to clean.

As shown in Figures 7(a) and 7(b), in the above embodiment, the engaging protrusion 126 is provided on the intermediate member 12 (extending portion 50). That is, the engaging protrusion 126 is provided on the second portion P2. On the other hand, the engaging recess 44 is provided on the upstream member 10. That is, the engaging recess 44 is provided on the first portion P1.

Contrary to the above embodiment, the engaging protrusion 126 may be provided on the first portion P1, and the engaging recess 44 may be provided on the second portion P2. However, when multiple engaging recesses 44 are arranged on the opposing surface portion 142, the angle range in which the engaging recesses 44 are arranged is restricted, making it difficult to increase the rotation angle θ. Furthermore, providing the engaging protrusion 126 on the first portion P1 (upstream member 10) makes the upstream member 10 larger and more complicated, which is undesirable in terms of manufacturing the upstream member 10 and pressure loss. From this perspective, it is preferable that the engaging protrusion 126 is provided on the second portion P2, and the engaging recess 44 is provided on the first portion P1.

As described above, the direction of the engagement protrusion 126 is along the water flow direction line at the portion where the engagement protrusion 126 is provided. Therefore, the engagement protrusion 126 and the cylindrical wall portion 132 that houses the engagement protrusion 126 and the biasing member 128 can be arranged along the water flow direction line. This arrangement can suppress pressure loss. Furthermore, by arranging the engagement protrusion 126 along the rotation axis ax2, a flow path W3 can be formed around the cylindrical wall portion 132, and pressure loss can be suppressed. Furthermore, the cylindrical wall portion 132 can be arranged at the center of the flow path W3, and pressure loss can be further suppressed.

When the engaging protrusion 126 is provided on the second portion P2 as in the above embodiment, the direction line of the water flow at the portion where the engaging protrusion 126 is provided can be the above-mentioned direction line F2. On the other hand, when the engaging protrusion 126 is provided on the first portion P1, the direction line of the water flow at the portion where the engaging protrusion 126 is provided can be the above-mentioned direction line F1.

As described above, the first rotary joint J1 has a structure in which the inside and outside of the annular flow passage 64 are sealed by the annular seal members 16, 14, respectively (see FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b)). The engaging protrusion 126 is not disposed in this annular flow passage 64. The engaging protrusion 126 is disposed on the outside of the outer peripheral wall portion 36 (outer peripheral surface 38). The biasing member 128 is also disposed on the outside of the outer peripheral wall portion 36 (outer peripheral surface 38). The cylindrical wall portion 132 is also disposed on the outside of the outer peripheral wall portion 36 (outer peripheral surface 38). The engaging protrusion 126 is disposed on the outside of the cylindrical connecting portion 66.
The biasing member 128 is also disposed outside the cylindrical connection portion 66. The cylindrical wall portion 132 is also disposed outside the cylindrical connection portion 66. Since a positioning mechanism needs to be formed between members that rotate relative to one another, it can be formed between the rotational connection receiver 24 and the rotational connection portion 48. However, in the above embodiment, a positioning mechanism having the engagement protrusion 126 is not formed between the rotational connection receiver 24 and the rotational connection portion 48. The annular flow path 64 is not narrowed due to the presence of the engagement protrusion 126. The engagement protrusion 126 and the cylindrical wall portion 132 do not impede the water flow in the annular flow path 64.

The annular flow passage 64 is curved. In addition, due to the dimensions and structure of the rotary joint J1, it is difficult to increase the cross-sectional area of the annular flow passage 64. If the water flow in this annular flow passage 64 is obstructed, pressure loss is likely to increase. In contrast, in this embodiment, the engagement protrusion 126 is provided in a position that does not affect the annular flow passage 64. Therefore, pressure loss is suppressed.

In the structure shown in FIG. 3 of Utility Model Registration No. 3189703, the adjustment device 435 including the pin 4352 is oriented perpendicular to the water flow direction. In addition, in this structure, the annular flow path is narrowed to accommodate the adjustment device 435 and the numerous holes 4414 arranged in a row. As a result, pressure loss is large. In contrast, in the above embodiment, pressure loss caused by the annular flow path 64 is suppressed.

In the above-mentioned reference state, the water pressure at the inlet of the first portion P1 is defined as WP1, and the water pressure at the outlet of the second portion P2 is defined as WP2. As shown in Figures 7(a) and 7(b), in this embodiment, the inlet 144 of the flow path W1 inside the base 26 is the inlet of the first portion P1, and the outlet 146 of the flow path W3 inside the downstream member 70 is the outlet of the second portion P2. The pressure loss rate Rp (%) can be calculated by the following formula: Rp = [(WP1 - WP2) / WP1] x 100.

From the viewpoint of suppressing pressure loss by the above structure, when WP1 is 0.3 MPa, the pressure loss rate Rp is preferably 20% or less, more preferably 15% or less, and even more preferably 10% or less. Due to structural constraints, when WP1 is 0.3 MPa, the pressure loss rate Rp can be 2% or more, even 4% or more, and even 6% or more. In the above embodiment, the pressure loss rate Rp was 8% when WP1 was 0.3 MPa.

As shown in FIG. 7(a) and FIG. 7(b), the cylindrical wall portion 132 provided in the second portion P2 (extension portion 50) and the third portion P3 (downstream member 70) overlap in the axial direction (the direction of the rotation axis ax2) to form an overlap portion 150 (see FIG. 7(b)). This overlap portion 150 includes a seal member (outer seal 72) that seals the second rotary joint portion J2. This structure ensures the length of the engagement protrusion 126 and the biasing member 128 while miniaturizing the head portion 8 and forming a flow path around the cylindrical wall portion 132. Therefore, the head portion 8 can be miniaturized while improving the durability and reliability of the positioning mechanism, and bending of the flow path is suppressed.

The structure of the biasing member 128 used in the positioning mechanism is not limited, and it may be an elastic body capable of applying a biasing force. Examples of the biasing member 128 include a coil spring, a leaf spring, and rubber. A coil spring with excellent durability is preferable. In the above embodiment, the biasing member 128 is a coil spring.

The material of the engaging protrusion 126 may be resin or metal. From the viewpoints of moldability and cost, resin is preferred. When the material is resin, thermoplastic resin, which is easy to mold, is preferred. From the viewpoints of sliding properties and abrasion resistance, polyacetal (POM), polyamide (PA) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) are preferred. From the viewpoints of durability, water resistance and chemical resistance, and low cost, polyacetal (POM) is more preferred. In the above embodiment, polyacetal (POM) is used.

Materials for the member (rotary connection receiving portion 24) that constitutes the engagement recess 44 include resin and metal. From the viewpoints of moldability and cost, resin is preferred. If the material is resin, a thermoplastic resin that is easy to mold is preferred. From the viewpoints of sliding properties and abrasion resistance, polyacetal (POM), polyamide (PA) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) are preferred. From the viewpoints of durability, water resistance and chemical resistance, and low cost, polyacetal (POM) is more preferred. In the above embodiment, polyacetal (POM) is used.

The following notes are part of the invention contained in this disclosure.
[Appendix 1]
The water dispenser includes a head portion including a water outlet, a grip portion, and a water-passing extension portion extending between the head portion and the grip portion,
The head portion has a first portion connected to the water-conducting extension portion and a second portion connected to the first portion by a rotary joint portion,
The water discharge angle is changed by rotation of the rotary joint portion,
the rotary joint portion has a positioning mechanism that increases rotational resistance at a plurality of rotation positions,
the positioning mechanism has a plurality of engaging recesses formed on an outer circumferential surface of the rotary joint part centered on a rotation axis of the rotary joint part, and an engaging protrusion which is biased in a protruding direction by a biasing member and selectively engages with one of the plurality of engaging recesses to specify the rotation position,
The direction in which the engaging protrusion extends is along the direction of the water flow at the portion where the engaging protrusion is provided,
A water-discharging nozzle in which the directional line of the water flow flowing into the rotary joint section and the directional line of the water flowing out of the rotary joint section are located on the same plane in all of the rotational positions.
[Appendix 2]
The water dispenser includes a head portion including a water outlet, a grip portion, and a water-passing extension portion extending between the head portion and the grip portion,
the head portion has a first portion connected to the water-passing extension portion, a second portion connected to the first portion by a first rotary joint portion, and a third portion connected to the second portion by a second rotary joint portion and including the water outlet,
The water discharge angle is changed by rotation of the first rotary joint portion,
The water discharge angle is changed by rotation of the second rotary joint portion,
A water-discharging nozzle in which a rotation axis of the first rotary joint part is different from a rotation axis of the second rotary joint part.
[Appendix 3]
the first rotary joint portion has a positioning mechanism that increases rotational resistance at a plurality of rotational positions;
the positioning mechanism has a plurality of engaging recesses formed on an outer circumferential surface of the first rotary joint part centered on a rotation axis of the first rotary joint part, and an engaging protrusion which is biased in a protruding direction by a biasing member and selectively engages with one of the plurality of engaging recesses to specify the rotation position,
A water-discharging nozzle as described in Appendix 2, wherein the direction in which the engaging protrusion extends and retracts is along the directional line of the water flow at the location where the engaging protrusion is provided.
[Appendix 4]
The water-discharging nozzle according to claim 1 or 3, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of engagement recesses are exposed to the outside.
[Appendix 5]
The engaging recess further includes an opposing surface portion that covers a part of the engaging recesses,
The engagement recess that is not covered by the facing surface portion is exposed to the outside,
The water-discharging nozzle according to claim 4, wherein which of the engagement recesses is exposed to the outside changes depending on the rotational position.

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

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

Reference Signs List 2: Water-discharging nozzle 4: Grip portion 6: Water-passing extension portion 8: Head portion 8a: Water discharge port 8b: Rotary joint portion 8c: Main portion of head portion 10: Upstream member 12: Intermediate member 38: Outer circumferential surface 44: Engagement recess 50: Extension portion of intermediate member 70: Downstream member 76: Elastic ring 110: Water discharge portion 126: Engagement protrusion 128: Urging member 142: Opposing surface portion P1: First portion of head portion P2: Second portion of head portion P3: Third portion of head portion J1: First rotary joint portion J2: Second rotary joint portion ax1: Rotation axis of first rotary joint portion ax2: Rotation axis of second rotary joint portion

Claims (5)

The water dispenser includes a head portion including a water outlet, a grip portion, and a water-passing extension portion extending between the head portion and the grip portion,
The head portion has a first portion connected to the water-conducting extension portion and a second portion connected to the first portion by a rotary joint portion,
The water discharge angle is changed by rotation of the rotary joint portion,
the rotary joint portion has a positioning mechanism that increases rotational resistance at a plurality of rotation positions,
the positioning mechanism has a plurality of engaging recesses formed on an outer circumferential surface of the rotary joint part centered on a rotation axis of the rotary joint part, and an engaging protrusion which is biased in a protruding direction by a biasing member and selectively engages with one of the plurality of engaging recesses to specify the rotation position,
The direction in which the engaging protrusion extends is along the direction of the water flow at the portion where the engaging protrusion is provided,
A water-discharging nozzle in which the directional line of the water flow flowing into the rotary joint section and the directional line of the water flowing out of the rotary joint section are located on the same plane in all of the rotational positions. The water dispenser includes a head portion including a water outlet, a grip portion, and a water-passing extension portion extending between the head portion and the grip portion,
the head portion has a first portion connected to the water-passing extension portion, a second portion connected to the first portion by a first rotary joint portion, and a third portion connected to the second portion by a second rotary joint portion and including the water outlet,
The water discharge angle is adjusted by rotation of the first rotary joint portion,
The water discharge angle is changed by rotation of the second rotary joint portion,
a rotation axis of the first rotary joint part is different from a rotation axis of the second rotary joint part,
A water-discharging nozzle in which the rotation axis of the second rotary joint part is parallel to a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis of the first rotary joint part at all rotational positions in the rotation of the first rotary joint part . The water dispenser includes a head portion including a water outlet, a grip portion, and a water-passing extension portion extending between the head portion and the grip portion,
the head portion has a first portion connected to the water-passing extension portion, a second portion connected to the first portion by a first rotary joint portion, and a third portion connected to the second portion by a second rotary joint portion and including the water outlet,
The water discharge angle is adjusted by rotation of the first rotary joint portion,
The water discharge angle is changed by rotation of the second rotary joint portion,
a rotation axis of the first rotary joint part is different from a rotation axis of the second rotary joint part,
the first rotary joint portion has a positioning mechanism that increases rotational resistance at a plurality of rotational positions;
the positioning mechanism has a plurality of engaging recesses formed on an outer circumferential surface of the first rotary joint part centered on a rotation axis of the first rotary joint part, and an engaging protrusion which is biased in a protruding direction by a biasing member and selectively engages with one of the plurality of engaging recesses to specify the rotation position,
A water-discharging nozzle in which the direction in which the engaging protrusion extends and retracts is aligned with the directional line of the water flow at the location where the engaging protrusion is provided. The water discharge nozzle according to claim 1 or 3, wherein at least a portion of the multiple engagement recesses is exposed to the outside. The engaging recess further includes an opposing surface portion that covers a part of the engaging recesses,
The engagement recess that is not covered by the facing surface portion is exposed to the outside,
The water-discharging nozzle according to claim 4 , wherein which of the engagement recesses is exposed to the outside changes depending on the rotational position.

Images