JP7484656B2 - Water discharge device - Google Patents

Description

The disclosed embodiment relates to a water discharge device.

Conventionally, water discharge devices that are installed on the wall of, for example, a toilet room are known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In such water discharge devices, a technology is also known in which a water supply pipe that supplies water to the water discharge section is provided and housed on the front side of the wall, thereby eliminating the need for water supply work on the back side of the wall and improving workability (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

JP 2007-029124 A JP 2002-345662 A

However, there is a demand for the above-mentioned water discharge device to be made compact by reducing the depth in the front-to-rear direction. Therefore, for example, it is conceivable to make the depth of the storage space thin and compact by splitting the water supply pipe into multiple narrow water supply passages in the storage space in which the water supply pipe is stored and then merging the multiple water supply passages near the water discharge section.

However, when the water is split into multiple water supply channels and then merged as described above, the water flow is easily disturbed in the water supply channels when splitting or merging due to differences in the water speed of each water supply channel, and this can cause the water discharged from the water discharge section to become turbulent. Thus, there is room for further improvement in the prior art in terms of suppressing turbulence in the discharged water while achieving a compact water discharge device with a slim depth.

One aspect of the embodiment aims to provide a water discharge device that can reduce turbulence in the discharged water while being compact with a thin front-to-rear depth.

The water discharge device according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a water discharge section, a water supply section that supplies water to the water discharge section, and a panel section that is installed so as to face an installation surface. A storage space that stores at least a part of the water supply section is formed between the panel section and the installation surface. The water supply section is disposed in the storage space and includes a plurality of second water supply passages that are connected to the downstream side of a first water supply passage that is connected to a water supply source, a diverting section that is connected between the first water supply passage and the plurality of second water supply passages and that divertes water from the first water supply passage into the plurality of second water supply passages, and a merging section that is connected to the downstream side of the plurality of second water supply passages and that merging water from the plurality of second water supply passages, each of the plurality of second water supply passages is formed so that the outer dimensions are smaller than the outer dimensions of the first water supply passage and has flexibility, and at least one of the diverting section and the merging section is equipped with a rectifying section that rectifies the water flowing through the water supply section.

This allows the depth of the storage space to be smaller and thinner than when, for example, a water supply pipe is accommodated, and therefore the depth of the water discharge device can be made thinner and more compact. In addition, by providing the water supply section with multiple water supply channels with outer dimensions smaller than the water supply pipe, for example, it is possible to discharge water from the water discharge section while maintaining the amount of water supplied from the water supply pipe. In addition, since the multiple water supply channels are flexible, it becomes easier to handle the water supply channels during construction and maintenance, and it is possible to suppress a decrease in construction and maintenance, and therefore it is possible to further improve construction and the like. In addition, by rectifying the flow in the rectifying section, for example, water flows evenly in each water supply channel, and the speed of water flowing in each water supply channel tends to be the same or equivalent, so the water flow is less likely to be disturbed when the water is divided or merged, and therefore disturbance of the water discharge from the water discharge section can be suppressed.

The flow straightening section is also characterized by having a collision wall against which water flowing from upstream collides.

This allows the water flowing through the water supply section to be rectified with a simple configuration.

The branch section is also characterized in that the central axis of the flow passage cross section at the multiple outlets to which the multiple second water supply passages are respectively connected and through which water flows out to the second water supply passages is eccentric to the central axis of the flow passage cross section at the inlet to which the first water supply passage is connected and through which water from the first water supply passage flows in.

This allows water to flow more evenly from the branch section to each water supply channel. In other words, if the central axis of some of the multiple outlets is coaxial with the central axis of the inlet, water from the inlet will flow more easily to those outlets. This can cause the water flow to be biased toward the water supply channel connected to some of the outlets, preventing water from flowing evenly to each water supply channel and causing turbulence in the water discharge from the water discharge section. Therefore, as described above, by configuring the central axes of the multiple outlets to be eccentric with respect to the central axis of the inlet, water can be made to flow more evenly from the branch section to each water supply channel, and as a result, turbulence in the water discharge can be effectively suppressed.

The flow dividing section is also characterized in that the distances from the central axis of the flow passage cross section at the outlets to the central axis of the flow passage cross section at the inlet are all the same.

This allows water to flow more evenly from the branch section to each water supply channel. In other words, if the distance from the central axis of the outlet to the central axis of the inlet differs between multiple outlets, water from the inlet will flow more easily to the outlet closest to the inlet. This can cause the water flow to be biased toward the water supply channel connected to the outlet closest to the inlet, preventing water from flowing evenly to each water supply channel and causing turbulence in the water discharge from the water discharge section. Therefore, as described above, by forming the multiple outlets so that the distances from the central axis of the outlet to the central axis of the inlet are the same, water can flow more evenly from the branch section to each water supply channel, and as a result, turbulence in the water discharge can be effectively suppressed.

The outlet is also characterized in that it is formed at a position that does not overlap with the inlet when viewed from the central axis direction of the flow passage cross section at the outlet.

This makes it possible, for example, for water to flow more evenly from the diverter to each water supply channel. In other words, if some of the multiple outlets are located so as to overlap with the inlets when viewed from the central axis, water from the inlets may easily flow to those outlets, which may result in water not flowing evenly to each water supply channel. Therefore, as described above, by forming the outlets in positions that do not overlap with the inlets when viewed from the central axis, it becomes possible to flow water more evenly from the diverter to each water supply channel, and as a result, turbulence in the water discharge can be more effectively suppressed.

The second water supply channels are also formed so that they have the same length from the connection point with the branch section to the connection point with the junction section.

As a result, for example, the pressure loss experienced by water flowing through multiple water supply channels will be the same between the multiple water supply channels, and water will flow evenly through each water supply channel, making it easier for the water speed, etc. to be the same or comparable. As a result, the water flow is less likely to be disturbed when the water flowing through each water supply channel joins at the junction, and disturbance in the water discharge can be further suppressed.

According to one aspect of the embodiment, the water discharge device can be made compact by reducing the depth in the front-to-rear direction while suppressing turbulence in the discharged water.

FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view showing a water discharge device according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a front view of the water discharge device. FIG. 3 is a rear view of the water discharge device. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in FIG. FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of FIG. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI in FIG. FIG. 7 is a front view of the flow dividing portion. FIG. 8 is a plan view of the flow dividing portion. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IX-IX in FIG. FIG. 10 is a front view of the junction. FIG. 11 is a side view of the junction. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII in FIG. FIG. 13 is a front view of the water discharge device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIV-XIV in FIG. FIG. 15 is a front view of the flow dividing portion. FIG. 16 is a plan view of the flow dividing portion. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVII-XVII in FIG. FIG. 18 is an overall perspective view showing a water discharge device according to the third embodiment. FIG. 19 is a front view of the water discharge device according to the third embodiment. FIG. 20 is a front view of the junction section and the water discharge section. FIG. 21 is a side view of the junction section and the water discharge section. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXII-XXII in FIG. FIG. 23 is a diagram for explaining a water supply channel etc. according to a modified example.

Below, an embodiment of the water discharge device disclosed in this application will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment shown below.

First Embodiment
Fig. 1 is an overall perspective view showing a water discharge device according to a first embodiment. Note that Fig. 1 and the figures shown in Fig. 2 and thereafter are all schematic diagrams.

For ease of explanation, FIG. 1 illustrates a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system that defines mutually orthogonal X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions, with the positive Z-axis direction being the vertically upward direction. Such a Cartesian coordinate system may also be shown in other drawings used in the following explanation. In the following explanation, for example, based on the state when the water discharge device 1 is installed, the positive X-axis direction in the Cartesian coordinate system may be described as "right", the negative X-axis direction as "left", the positive Y-axis direction as "forward" or "front side", the negative Y-axis direction as "rear" or "rear side", the positive Z-axis direction as "upward", and the negative Z-axis direction as "downward".

As shown in FIG. 1, the water discharger 1 is a wall-mounted type and is installed on a wall surface W. The water discharger 1 is, for example, a hand-washing device installed on a wall surface W in a toilet room, but is not limited to this. In other words, the water discharger 1 may be installed on a wall surface in other locations, such as a washroom or kitchen. The wall surface W is an example of an installation surface.

Figure 2 is a front view of the water discharge device 1, and Figure 3 is a rear view of the water discharge device 1. As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the water discharge device 1 comprises a hand wash basin 10, a counter 20, a water discharge section 30 (not visible in Figure 3), a water supply section 40 (not visible in Figure 1), and a holding section 60 (not visible in Figure 1).

In FIG. 2, for ease of understanding, the hand washing basin 10 and counter 20 are shown with phantom lines so that the water supply unit 40 located on the rear side of the hand washing basin 10, etc. can be seen. Also, in FIG. 3, the counter 20 is shown with phantom lines.

The hand washing basin 10 comprises a water receiving portion 11 and a panel portion 12. The water receiving portion 11 is formed, for example, in a bowl shape, and receives water discharged from the water discharge portion 30. The water receiving portion 11 drains the received water from a drain hole 13 (see FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 described later) to a drain pipe 14 shown by a two-dot chain line (see FIG. 3). Note that the term "water" may be used to mean water at room temperature such as tap water (tap water), as well as hot water, a mixture of hot and cold water, cold water, etc.

The panel portion 12 is formed, for example, in a flat plate shape and is positioned on the rear side (rear side; negative side of the Y axis) of the water receiving portion 11. In other words, the panel portion 12 is also a wall portion on the rear side of the water receiving portion 11. Specifically, the panel portion 12 includes a rear wall portion 12a, an upper wall portion 12b, and two side wall portions 12c.

The rear wall portion 12a is a flat plate-like portion formed to stand upright in the vertical direction. A water discharge portion 30 is provided on the rear wall portion 12a of the panel portion 12. The upper wall portion 12b is formed to extend rearward (Y-axis negative direction) from the upper end of the rear wall portion 12a. The side wall portion 12c is formed to extend rearward (Y-axis negative direction) from the left and right side ends of the rear wall portion 12a.

The panel unit 12 configured as described above is installed (fixed) so as to face the wall surface W, which is the installation surface. More specifically, the panel unit 12 is installed with the rear wall portion 12a positioned so as to face the wall surface W. Thus, in the panel unit 12, a space is formed that is surrounded by the rear wall portion 12a, the upper wall portion 12b, the two side wall portions 12c, and the wall surface W, and this space functions as a storage space 50 that stores part of the water supply unit 40, which will be described later.

The counter 20 is, for example, a plate-shaped member, and is provided below the water receiving portion 11. The counter 20 is fixed to, for example, a wall surface W or a floor surface (not shown). The water receiving portion 11 is then placed on the counter 20.

The counter 20 is an example of a mounting part. In the above, the counter 20 is used as an example of a mounting part, but this is not limited thereto, and the mounting part may be, for example, a cabinet top (counter) or other object as long as it is capable of mounting the water receiving part 11. The counter 20 also has an insertion hole 21 (see FIG. 6) through which a part of the water supply part 40 is inserted, which will be described later.

The water discharge unit 30 discharges water toward the hand washing basin 10. The detailed configuration of the water discharge unit 30 will be described later with reference to FIG. 10 etc.

The water supply unit 40 is connected to the water discharge unit 30 and supplies water to the water discharge unit 30. Here, the water supply unit 40 and the storage space 50 will be described with reference to Figures 4 to 6.

Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in Figure 2. Figure 5 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of Figure 4, more specifically, an enlarged cross-sectional view of the portion surrounded by the dashed line in Figure 4. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI in Figure 2.

As shown in Figures 4 to 6, the storage space 50 is formed between the panel portion 12 and the wall surface W. Specifically, the storage space 50 is a space surrounded by the rear wall portion 12a, the top wall portion 12b, the two side wall portions 12c, and the wall surface W of the panel portion 12, as described above.

A part of the water supply unit 40 is provided and accommodated in such a storage space 50. That is, in this embodiment, since the water supply unit 40 is provided on the front side of the wall W, it is possible to eliminate the need for water supply construction work on the back side of the wall W, for example. This makes it possible to install the water discharge device 1 in a relatively short period of time and at low cost, improving the ease of construction of the water discharge device 1.

In addition, in this embodiment, the depth D (see FIG. 6) of the storage space 50 is made as small as possible to make it thin, thereby making the water discharge device 1 compact.

Specifically, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, the water supply section 40 includes a water supply pipe 41, a water supply channel 42, a branch section 43, and a junction section 44. Note that the water supply pipe 41 is an example of a first water supply channel, and the water supply channel 42 is an example of a second water supply channel.

The water supply pipe 41 is connected to a water supply source such as a water pipe (not shown) via a stop valve 100 (shown as a block in FIG. 2) provided on the wall surface W. An electromagnetic valve 101 for an automatic water faucet is connected between the water supply pipe 41 and the stop valve 100. The electromagnetic valve 101 opens to open the flow path while a detection signal indicating that the user's hand or the like is placed near the water discharge unit 30 is being output from a human body detection sensor (not shown), and closes to block the flow path when the output of the detection signal stops. In other words, the water discharge device 1 is equipped with an automatic water faucet that automatically discharges water when the user places their hand out. The water supply pipe 41 is made of a flexible material (for example, a resin such as silicone), but the material is not limited to this.

There are multiple water supply channels 42 (for example, three (3 pipes)), and they are connected to the downstream side of the water supply pipe 41 via a branch section 43. In addition, the downstream side of the water supply channels 42 is connected to the water discharge section 30 via a junction section 44. Note that, although there are three water supply channels 42 in the above, this is not limited to this, and there may be, for example, two or four or more.

As described above, it is assumed that water supplied from the same water supply pipe 41 flows through the multiple water supply passages 42. In other words, it is assumed that water supplied from the same water supply system flows through the multiple water supply passages 42, but this is not limited to this.

Each of the multiple water supply passages 42 is formed to be narrower than the upstream water supply pipe 41. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, each of the multiple water supply passages 42 is formed so that the outer dimension (outer diameter) E2 is smaller than the outer dimension (outer diameter) E1 of the water supply pipe 41 (E2<E1). Here, the outer dimension E2 of the water supply passage 42 is set to a value such that the total flow rate (total flow rate) of the water flowing through the multiple water supply passages 42 is the same or equivalent to the flow rate of the water flowing through the upstream water supply pipe 41. Note that the multiple water supply passages 42 are all set to the same outer dimension E2, but this is not limited thereto, and some or all of the multiple water supply passages 42 may be set to have different outer dimensions from each other.

The multiple water supply channels 42 configured as described above are arranged in the storage space 50 as shown in Figures 5 and 6. This allows the depth D (see Figure 6) of the storage space 50 to be smaller and thinner than when it is configured to store, for example, the water supply pipe 41, and therefore allows the water discharge device 1 to be made thinner and more compact.

In addition, the water supply unit 40 according to this embodiment has multiple water supply passages 42 (three in this example) with an outer dimension E2 that is narrower than the water supply pipe 41, making it possible to discharge the water from the water discharge unit 30 while maintaining the amount of water supplied from the water supply pipe 41, for example.

The multiple water supply channels 42 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) as shown in FIG. 5 and other figures. This allows the depth D (see FIG. 6) of the storage space 50 to be made smaller and thinner, making the water discharge device 1 more compact.

As described above, if multiple water supply lines 42 are provided and the water supply lines 42 are made of a highly rigid material such as copper pipes, it may be difficult to handle the water supply lines 42, for example, when connecting the water supply lines 42 during construction or removing the water supply lines 42 during maintenance, which may result in reduced workability and maintainability.

Therefore, each of the multiple water supply channels 42 in this embodiment is configured to be flexible. Note that the water supply channels 42 may be, for example, tubes made of resin (such as polyvinyl chloride or silicone), but are not limited to this.

In this way, the flexibility of the multiple water supply channels 42 makes it easier to handle the water supply channels 42 during construction and maintenance, preventing a decrease in construction and maintenance ease, and thus further improving construction ease, etc.

The diverter 43 is connected between the water supply pipe 41 and the multiple water supply channels 42. The diverter 43 diverts water from the water supply pipe 41 to the multiple water supply channels 42. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the diverter 43 is inserted and positioned so that a portion of it is positioned in the insertion hole 21 of the counter 20. The diverter 43 is positioned so that the connection position 43x with the upstream water supply pipe 41 is lower than the lower end 21a of the insertion hole 21, while the connection position 43y with the downstream water supply channel 42 is higher than the upper end 21b of the insertion hole 21. The above-mentioned position at which the diverter 43 is positioned is merely an example and is not limited.

Here, as described above, if the water is divided into multiple water supply channels 42 at the dividing section 43, and then the divided multiple water supply channels 42 are merged at the merging section 44 as described below, the water discharged from the water discharge section 30 may become turbulent. In other words, if the water is configured as described above, for example, water may not flow evenly in each water supply channel 42, and the speed of water flowing in each water supply channel 42 may differ from each other, which may cause the flow of water to become turbulent in the water supply section 40 including the water supply channels 42 when the water is divided or merged, and therefore the water discharged from the water discharge section 30 may become turbulent.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the branching section 43 and the merging section 44 are configured to suppress turbulence in the water discharge section 30.

First, the flow dividing section 43 will be described in detail with reference to Figs. 7 to 9. Fig. 7 is a front view of the flow dividing section 43, and Fig. 8 is a plan view (top view) of the flow dividing section 43. Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IX-IX in Fig. 7. For ease of understanding, the water supply pipe 41 and water supply channel 42 connected to the flow dividing section 43 are shown by imaginary lines in Figs. 7 to 9.

As shown in Figures 7 to 9, the flow dividing section 43 includes an inflow section 43a, an outflow section 43b, and a flow straightening section 43c. The inflow section 43a is a section into which water flows from the water supply pipe 41. For example, the inflow section 43a is formed with an inlet 43a1. The water supply pipe 41 is connected to the inlet 43a1, and the water from the water supply pipe 41 flows in.

The outflow portions 43b are portions through which water flows out to the water supply passages 42, and there are a plurality of them. Since the outflow portions 43b correspond to the water supply passages 42, there are the same number of them as the water supply passages 42 (here, three). For example, each of the plurality of outflow portions 43b is formed with an outlet 43b1. The water supply passages 42 are connected to the outlets 43b1, and water flows out to the water supply passages 42.

The rectifying section 43c rectifies the water flowing through the water supply section 40, specifically, the water flowing from the water supply pipe 41 to the water supply channel 42 via the branch section 43. By rectifying the water flow in the rectifying section 43c, for example, the water flows evenly through each water supply channel 42, and the speed of the water flowing through each water supply channel 42 tends to be the same or equivalent, so the water flow is less likely to be disturbed when the water is branched or merged, and therefore disturbance of the water discharged from the water discharge section 30 can be suppressed.

The flow straightening section 43c will be described in detail below. For example, the flow straightening section 43c is a section provided between the inflow section 43a and the outflow section 43b. The flow straightening section 43c is formed to be hollow, and as shown in FIG. 9, is formed to be L-shaped in side view.

For example, the flow straightening section 43c includes a first flow path 43c1, a second flow path 43c2, and a collision wall section 43c3. The first flow path 43c1 is formed so that the upstream side is connected to the inlet section 43a and the downstream side is connected to the second flow path 43c2. Also, as shown in FIG. 8, the first flow path 43c1 is formed so that it widens in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) as it approaches the second flow path 43c2, in other words, as it moves downstream.

The second flow path 43c2 is formed so that its upstream side communicates with the first flow path 43c1 and its downstream side communicates with multiple (here, three) outlets 43b. The second flow path 43c2 is also formed so as to extend in the up-down direction.

As shown in FIG. 9, the collision wall portion 43c3 is located opposite the inlet 43a1 of the inlet portion 43a and is formed on the upper end side (ceiling side) of the first flow path 43c1. Here, since the water flowing in from the inlet 43a1 of the inlet portion 43a flows from below to above, the water flowing in from the inlet 43a1 (in other words, the water flowing from upstream) collides with the collision wall portion 43c3 (see arrow G1).

As shown by arrow G2, the water that collides with the collision wall portion 43c3 flows into the second flow path 43c2, and then branches (diverges) into multiple outlet portions 43b and flows into the corresponding water supply paths 42. In this way, in the straightening portion 43c, the water from the water supply pipe 41 collides with the collision wall portion 43c3 and is straightened, and the straightened water is branched and flows into the multiple water supply paths 42 via the second flow path 43c2 and the outlet portion 43b.

As a result, the water speed in each water supply channel 42 is the same or equivalent, so the water flow is less likely to be disturbed when the water branches or merges, and disturbances in the water discharge can be suppressed, as already mentioned.

The straightening section 43c also includes a collision wall 43c3 against which the water from the water supply pipe 41 collides, so that the water flowing from the water supply pipe 41 to the water supply channel 42 via the branch section 43 can be straightened with a simple configuration.

The positional relationship of the outlet 43b1 to the inlet 43a1 in the flow dividing section 43 will now be described in detail with reference to FIG. 8. The outlet 43b1 of the flow dividing section 43 is positioned so as to be offset from the inlet 43a1 in a plan view, in other words, when viewed from above and below parallel to the water flow direction.

More specifically, the flow dividing section 43 is formed so that the central axis B1 of the flow passage cross section at the multiple outlets 43b1 is eccentric (displaced) from the central axis A1 of the flow passage cross section at the inlet 43a1.

To put the above another way, using the water supply passage 42 connected to the outlet 43b1 and the water supply pipe 41 connected to the inlet 43a1, the central axis of the flow passage cross section at the upstream end of all water supply passages 42 provided downstream of the diversion section 43 (same position as the central axis B1 described above) is positioned eccentrically (displaced) from the central axis of the flow passage cross section at the downstream end of the water supply pipe 41 provided upstream of the diversion section 43 (same position as the central axis A1 described above).

This allows water to flow more evenly from the branch section 43 to each water supply channel 42, for example. In other words, if the central axis B1 of some of the multiple outlets 43b1 is coaxial with the central axis A1 of the inlet 43a1, water from the inlet 43a1 will flow more easily to these outlets 43b1. As a result, the water flow will be biased toward the water supply channel 42 connected to some of the outlets 43b1, preventing water from flowing evenly to each water supply channel 42, which may cause the water discharge from the water discharge section 30 to become turbulent, as described above.

In the flow dividing section 43 according to this embodiment, the central axis B1 of the multiple outlets 43b1 is configured to be eccentric with respect to the central axis A1 of the inlet 43a1, so that water can flow more evenly from the flow dividing section 43 to each water supply channel 42, and as a result, turbulence in the water discharge can be effectively suppressed.

The outlet 43b1 is formed at a position that does not overlap with the inlet 43a1 when viewed from the central axis B1 direction of the flow path cross section at the outlet 43b1. In more detail, the multiple outlets 43b1 are formed so that the inlet 43a1 is not located within a projection plane obtained by projecting the outlet 43b1 in the central axis B1 direction (in other words, in the vertical direction parallel to the water flow direction).

This allows water to flow more evenly from the branch section 43 to each water supply channel 42, for example. In other words, if some of the multiple outlets 43b1 are located in a position that overlaps with the inlets 43a1 when viewed from the direction of the central axis B1, water from the inlets 43a1 may flow more easily to those outlets 43b1, which may result in water not flowing evenly to each water supply channel 42.

In this embodiment, the outlet 43b1 is formed at a position that does not overlap with the inlet 43a1 when viewed from the direction of the central axis B1, so that water can flow more evenly from the branch section 43 to each water supply passage 42, and as a result, turbulence in the water discharge can be more effectively suppressed.

Next, the confluence 44 will be described. As shown in Figures 2 and 6, the confluence 44 is connected to the downstream side of the multiple water supply channels 42. The confluence 44 merges the water from the multiple water supply channels 42.

For example, the junction 44 is accommodated in the accommodation space 50 as shown in FIG. 6. More specifically, the junction 44 is accommodated in the accommodation space 50 together with the water supply passage 42. In other words, the junction 44 is accommodated in the same accommodation space 50 as the water supply passage 42.

This makes it possible to prevent kinks from occurring in the water supply passage 42. In other words, because the water supply passage 42 is flexible, kinks such as breaks and twists are more likely to occur compared to when the water supply passage 42 is made of a material with high rigidity. Therefore, in this embodiment, since the junction 44 is accommodated in the accommodation space 50, it is possible to prevent, for example, the water supply passage 42 from being bent midway and connected to the junction 44, and therefore it is possible to prevent kinks from occurring in the water supply passage 42.

The multiple water supply channels 42 are arranged to extend vertically within the storage space 50 to a connection position 44x with the junction 44. In detail, the multiple water supply channels 42 are arranged to extend vertically in a straight line within the storage space 50 from a connection position 43y with the upstream branch section 43 to a connection position 44x with the downstream junction 44.

This prevents unnecessary load from being placed on the water supply line 42, effectively preventing kinking.

Next, the configuration of the junction 44 that can suppress turbulence in the discharged water will be described in detail with reference to Figures 10 to 12. Figure 10 is a front view of the junction 44, and Figure 11 is a side view of the junction 44. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII in Figure 10. Note that in Figures 10 to 12, for ease of understanding, the water supply channel 42 connected to the junction 44 is shown by imaginary lines.

As shown in Figures 10 to 12, the confluence 44 includes an inlet 44a, an outlet 44b (shown only in Figure 12), and a flow straightening section 44c. The inlet 44a is a portion into which water flows from the multiple water supply channels 42, and there are multiple inlet sections 44a. Since the inlet sections 44a correspond to the water supply channels 42, there are the same number of inlet sections 44a as there are water supply channels 42 (here, three). For example, each of the multiple inlet sections 44a has an inlet 44a1 formed. The water supply channels 42 are connected to the multiple inlet sections 44a1, and the water from the water supply channels 42 flows in.

As shown in FIG. 12, the outflow section 44b is a section that flows water out to the water discharge section 30. For example, the outflow section 44b is formed with an outlet 44b1. The outlet 44b1 is connected to the water discharge port 31 (see FIG. 10) of the water discharge section 30, and flows water out to the water discharge port 31.

Before describing the flow straightening section 44c, the water discharge section 30 will be described. As shown in FIG. 10, the water discharge section 30 receives water that has merged at the merging section 44 and discharges it from the water discharge port 31. The water discharge port 31 is formed to be wide in the left-right direction (X-axis direction). Therefore, water is discharged from the water discharge port 31 in the shape of a wide waterfall (in other words, a thin film). Note that the outlet 44b1 of the outflow section 44b corresponds to the water discharge port 31, and is therefore formed to be wide in the left-right direction, just like the water discharge port 31 (see FIG. 12).

In addition, in this embodiment, the junction 44 and the water discharge section 30 are formed integrally. In this way, the junction 44, which is part of the water supply section 40, and the water discharge section 30 are formed integrally, so the number of parts can be reduced compared to when the junction 44 and the water discharge section 30 are separate, and the water discharge device 1 can be made more compact.

In the above description, the junction 44 and the water discharge section 30 are formed integrally, but this is not limited thereto. For example, the junction 44 and the water discharge section 30 may be formed separately.

Returning to the explanation of the rectifying section 44c, the rectifying section 44c rectifies the water flowing through the water supply section 40, more specifically, the water flowing from the water supply passage 42 to the water discharge section 30 via the junction 44. The rectification by the rectifying section 44c causes the water to flow evenly through each water supply passage 42 and the flow path 44c1 (see FIG. 12) of the junction 44, and the speed of the water flowing through each water supply passage 42 tends to be the same or equivalent, so the water flow is less likely to be disturbed when the passages are split or merged, and therefore disturbances in the water discharged from the water discharge section 30 can be suppressed.

The flow straightening section 44c will be described in detail below. For example, the flow straightening section 44c is a section provided between the inflow section 44a and the outflow section 44b. The flow straightening section 44c is formed to be hollow and extend in the vertical direction.

For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the flow straightening section 44c includes a flow path 44c1, a collision wall section 44c2, and a guide section 44c3. The flow path 44c1 communicates with the inlet section 44a (more specifically, the inlet 44a1) on the upstream side. This allows water from multiple water supply channels 42 to flow into the flow path 44c1 via the inlet section 44a and join together.

The flow path 44c1 is formed so that the downstream side is in communication with the outflow section 44b (more specifically, the outflow port 44b1). In addition, the flow path 44c1 is formed so that it widens in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) as it approaches the outflow section 44b, in other words, as it moves downstream.

The collision wall portion 44c2 is formed in the flow path 44c1 at a position facing the inlet 44a1 of the inflow portion 44a. There are multiple collision wall portions 44c2. Since the collision wall portions 44c2 correspond to the inlet 44a1, there are the same number of collision wall portions 44c2 as the inlet 44a1 (here, three). The collision wall portion 44c2 is, for example, a cylindrical boss erected in the flow path 44c1, but is not limited to this and may be a wall portion of another shape, such as a plate shape.

The guide portion 44c3 is formed in the flow path 44c1 downstream of the collision wall portion 44c2, and guides the water in the flow path 44c1 to the outlet 44b1. For example, the guide portion 44c3 is formed so as to extend radially toward the downstream side from the collision wall portion 44c2 located near the center of the flow path 44c1.

Here, the water flowing from the inlet 44a1 of the inflow section 44a to the flow path 44c1 of the flow straightening section 44c flows from the bottom to the top, so the water that has flowed from the inlet 44a1 into the flow path 44c1 (in other words, the water flowing from upstream) collides with the collision wall section 44c2 (see arrow H1).

As shown by arrow H2, the water that collides with the collision wall portion 44c2 spreads radially by the guide portion 44c3, and flows and is discharged to the water discharge portion 30 through the outlet 44b1 of the outflow portion 44b. In this way, in the straightening portion 44c, water from the multiple water supply channels 42 collides with the collision wall portion 44c2 and is straightened, and the straightened water is discharged from the water discharge portion 30 through the outflow portion 44b.

As a result, water flows evenly in each water supply passage 42 and flow path 44c1, and the speed of the water flowing in each water supply passage 42 tends to be the same or equivalent, so the water flow is less likely to be disturbed when the water branches or merges, and disturbances in the water discharge can be suppressed, as already mentioned.

The straightening section 44c also includes a collision wall 44c2 against which the water from the water supply passage 42 collides, making it possible to straighten the water flowing from the water supply passage 42 through the junction 44 to the water discharge section 30 with a simple configuration.

The multiple water supply channels 42 connected to the confluence 44 configured as described above are formed to have the same length. This makes it possible to further suppress turbulence in the discharged water.

In detail, as shown in FIG. 2, the multiple water supply channels 42 are formed so that the length F1 from the connection position 43y with the branch section 43 to the connection position 44x with the junction section 44 is the same.

As a result, for example, the pressure loss experienced by the water flowing through the multiple water supply channels 42 becomes the same among the multiple water supply channels 42, and the water flows evenly through each water supply channel 42, making it easier for the water speed, etc. to be the same or equivalent. Therefore, the water flow is less likely to be disturbed when the water flowing through each water supply channel 42 joins at the junction 44, and disturbance in the water discharge can be further suppressed.

In the above, all of the multiple water supply channels 42 are formed to have the same length, but this is not limited thereto, and for example, only some of the multiple water supply channels 42 may be formed to have the same length.

Next, the holding portion 60 will be described with reference to Figures 2, 3, and 5. As shown in Figures 2, 3, and 5, the holding portion 60 is a member that holds multiple water supply channels 42. For example, as shown in Figure 5, the holding portion 60 includes a flat portion 61 and a curved portion 62.

The flat plate portion 61 is a flat plate-like member, and is formed to extend in the vertical direction along the surface of the rear wall portion 12a of the panel portion 12 facing the wall surface W. The curved portion 62 is curved so as to protrude from the flat plate portion 61 toward the wall surface W. In the curved portion 62, the water supply channel 42 can be placed (disposed) in the space formed by the curvature. There are multiple curved portions 62 (three in this case) to accommodate the water supply channels 42.

In the holding section 60 configured as described above, the water supply channels 42 are arranged in the curved section 62, and the flat section 61 is attached to the rear wall section 12a of the panel section 12, thereby allowing multiple water supply channels 42 to be held.

In this way, the water discharge device 1 according to this embodiment is configured to include a retaining portion 60, which can prevent the multiple water supply channels 42 from coming apart during construction, which would reduce workability. In addition, by including the retaining portion 60 in this embodiment, it can prevent kinking or the like from occurring in the water supply channels 42 due to unintended forces acting on the water supply channels 42 during construction.

Note that the above-described configuration of the holding unit 60 is merely an example and is not limiting. In other words, the holding unit 60 only needs to be capable of holding multiple water supply channels 42, and may hold multiple water supply channels 42 using, for example, adhesive tape or a band.

As described above, the water discharge device 1 according to the first embodiment includes a water discharge section 30, a water supply section 40, and a panel section 12. The water supply section 40 supplies water to the water discharge section 30. The panel section 12 is installed so as to face a wall surface W (installation surface). A storage space 50 that stores at least a part of the water supply section 40 is formed between the panel section 12 and the wall surface W (installation surface). The water supply section 40 is disposed in the storage space 50 and includes a plurality of water supply passages 42 (second water supply passages) that are connected to the downstream side of a water supply pipe 41 (first water supply passage) that is connected to a water supply source. Each of the plurality of water supply passages 42 is formed so that the outer dimensions are smaller than the outer dimensions of the water supply pipe 41, and is flexible.

This allows the water discharge device 1 to be made more compact by reducing the depth in the front-to-rear direction.

The water discharge device 1 according to the first embodiment includes a water discharge section 30, a water supply section 40, and a panel section 12. The water supply section 40 supplies water to the water discharge section 30. The panel section 12 is installed so as to face a wall surface W (installation surface). A storage space 50 that accommodates at least a part of the water supply section 40 is formed between the panel section 12 and the wall surface W (installation surface). The water supply section 40 is disposed in the storage space 50 and includes a plurality of water supply passages 42 (second water supply passages) connected to the downstream side of a water supply pipe 41 (first water supply passage) connected to a water supply source, a branching section 43 connected between the water supply pipe 41 and the plurality of water supply passages 42 and branching water from the water supply pipe 41 to the plurality of water supply passages 42, and a merging section 44 connected downstream of the plurality of water supply passages 42 and merging water from the plurality of water supply passages 42. Each of the multiple water supply channels 42 is formed so that its outer dimensions are smaller than those of the water supply pipe 41 and is flexible. At least one of the branch section 43 and the junction section 44 includes a straightening section 43c, 44c that straightens the water flowing through the water supply section 40.

This allows the water discharge device 1 to be made compact by reducing the depth in the front-to-rear direction while suppressing turbulence in the discharged water.

Second Embodiment
Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same reference numerals are used for parts that are the same as those already described, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted. In the following description of the second embodiment, the configurations corresponding to those of the first embodiment may be described with the number "1" added to the beginning of the reference numeral.

Figure 13 is a front view of the water discharge device 1 according to the second embodiment. Also, Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIV-XIV in Figure 13. As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the water supply section 40 according to the second embodiment includes a diverter section 143 having a different configuration from the diverter section 43 of the first embodiment.

For example, as shown in FIG. 13, the diverter 143 is positioned so as to be located below the counter 20. Specifically, the diverter 143 is positioned so that the connection position 143y with the multiple water supply passages 42 connected downstream is below the lower end 21a of the insertion hole 21 of the counter 20. In addition, the diverter 143 is positioned so that the connection position 143x with the water supply pipe 41 connected upstream is below the lower end 21a of the insertion hole 21 of the counter 20.

As a result, multiple water supply lines 42 are accommodated in the storage space 50, and multiple water supply lines 42 are inserted into all of the insertion holes 21 of the counter 20. In other words, the storage space 50 and the insertion holes 21 of the counter 20 are configured so that no diverter section 143 is arranged therein.

This allows the depth D of the storage space 50 to be smaller and thinner than when it is configured to accommodate, for example, the water supply pipe 41 and the flow dividing section 143, and therefore allows the depth of the water discharge device 1 to be thin and compact.

In addition, as described above, multiple water supply channels 42 are inserted through the insertion holes 21 of the counter 20, which further improves the ease of installation of the water discharge device 1.

For example, when placing the hand-washing basin 10 on the counter 20, the worker inserts the flexible water supply passage 42 into the insertion hole 21 while tilting the panel portion 12 forward, and then raises the panel portion 12 and installs it on the wall surface W, thereby making it possible to place the hand-washing basin 10 on the counter 20. This makes it less likely that the wall surface W will be damaged by the panel portion 12, for example, and further improves the ease of installation of the water discharge device 1.

Next, the flow dividing section 143 will be described in more detail with reference to Figs. 15 to 17. Fig. 15 is a front view of the flow dividing section 143, and Fig. 16 is a plan view (top view) of the flow dividing section 143. Also, Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVII-XVII in Fig. 15.

As shown in Figures 15 to 17, the flow dividing section 143 includes an inlet section 143a, an outlet section 143b, and a flow straightening section 143c. The inlet section 143a has an inlet port 143a1 through which water from the water supply pipe 41 flows. Each of the multiple outlet sections 143b has an outlet port 143b1 through which water flows out to the water supply channel 42.

The rectifying section 143c rectifies the water flowing through the water supply section 40, more specifically, the water flowing from the water supply pipe 41 to the water supply channel 42 via the branch section 143. For example, the rectifying section 143c is a section provided between the inlet section 143a and the outlet section 143b. The rectifying section 143c is hollow and formed into a cylindrical shape.

For example, as shown in FIG. 17, the flow straightening section 143c includes a flow path 143c1 and a collision wall section 143c2. The flow path 143c1 is formed so that the upstream side is connected to the inlet section 143a and the downstream side is connected to the outlet section 143b. In addition, the flow path 143c1 is formed so that the diameter partially expands as it approaches the outlet section 143b, in other words, as it moves downstream.

The collision wall portion 143c2 is located opposite the inlet 143a1 of the inlet portion 143a and is formed on the upper end side (ceiling side) of the flow path 143c1. Since the water flowing in from the inlet 143a1 of the inlet portion 143a flows from below to above, the water flowing in from the inlet 143a1 (in other words, the water flowing from upstream) collides with the collision wall portion 143c2 (see arrow K1).

As shown by arrow K2, the water that collides with the collision wall portion 143c2 is diverted (branched) into multiple outflow portions 143b and flows into the corresponding water supply passages 42. In this way, in the straightening portion 143c, the water from the water supply pipe 41 collides with the collision wall portion 143c2 and is straightened, and the straightened water is diverted and flows into the multiple water supply passages 42 via the outflow portion 143b.

As a result, the water speed in each water supply passage 42 is the same or equivalent, so the water flow is less likely to be disturbed when the water branches or merges, and disturbances in the water discharge can be suppressed, just like in the first embodiment.

The positional relationship of the outlet 143b1 to the inlet 143a1 in the flow dividing section 143 will now be described in detail with reference to FIG. 16. The outlet 143b1 of the flow dividing section 143 is positioned so as to be offset from the inlet 143a1 in a plan view, in other words, when viewed from above and below parallel to the water flow direction.

More specifically, the flow dividing section 143 is formed so that the central axis B2 of the flow passage cross section at the multiple outlets 143b1 is eccentric (displaced) from the central axis A2 of the flow passage cross section at the inlet 143a1.

More specifically, the flow dividing section 143 is formed so that the distance J1 from the central axis B2 of the flow passage cross section at the multiple outlets 143b1 to the central axis A2 of the flow passage cross section at the inlet 143a1 is the same for each. In addition, in a plan view, the flow dividing section 143 is formed so that the outlets 143b1 are spaced at predetermined intervals (here, 120 degree intervals) around the central axis A2 of the flow passage cross section at the inlet 143a1.

This allows water to flow more evenly from the branch section 143 to each water supply channel 42. In other words, if the distance from the central axis B2 of the outlet 143b1 to the central axis A2 of the inlet 143a1 differs between multiple outlets 143b1, for example, water from the inlet 143a1 will flow more easily to the outlet 143b1 closest to the inlet 143a1. As a result, the water flow will be biased toward the water supply channel 42 connected to the outlet 143b1 closest to the inlet 143a1, causing water to no longer flow evenly to each water supply channel 42, which may cause the water discharge section 30 to be disrupted.

In the second embodiment, the flow dividing section 143 is formed so that the distance J1 from the central axis B2 of the multiple outlets 143b1 to the central axis A2 of the inlet 143a1 is the same for each of them, so that water can flow more evenly from the flow dividing section 143 to each water supply channel 42, and as a result, turbulence in the water discharge can be effectively suppressed.

In the above, the distance J1 is formed to be the same for all of the multiple outlets 143b1, but this is not limited thereto, and for example, the distance may be formed to be the same for some of the multiple outlets 143b1.

Third Embodiment
Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the following description of the third embodiment, configurations corresponding to those of the first embodiment may be designated by adding the number "2" to the beginning of the reference numeral.

Figure 18 is an overall perspective view showing the water discharge device 1 according to the third embodiment, and Figure 19 is a front view of the water discharge device 1 according to the third embodiment. As shown in Figures 18 and 19, the water discharge device 1 according to the second embodiment includes a junction section 244 having a different configuration from the junction section 44 of the first embodiment, and a water discharge section 230.

As shown in FIG. 19, the multiple water supply channels 42 are formed so that the length F2 from the connection position 43y with the branch section 43 to the connection position 244x with the junction section 244 is the same, as in the previous embodiment.

The junction 244 and the water discharge section 230 will be described below with reference to Figures 20 to 22. Figure 20 is a front view of the junction 244 and the water discharge section 230, and Figure 21 is a side view of the junction 244 and the water discharge section 230. Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXII-XXII in Figure 20.

As shown in Figures 20 and 21, the water discharger 230 is supplied with water that has been joined at the joining section 244. The water discharger 230 mixes air into the supplied water, for example using a filter, and discharges bubbly water from the water outlet 231, i.e., performs foam water discharge. Note that the water discharger 230 is not limited to the foam water discharger described above, and may be of another type of water discharge, such as shower water discharge.

As shown in FIG. 22, the junction 244 includes an inlet 244a, an outlet 244b, and a flow path 244c. The inlet 244a is a portion into which water flows from the multiple water supply channels 42, and there are multiple inlet channels 244a. Each of the multiple inlet channels 244a has an inlet 244a1, through which the water from the water supply channels 42 flows. The outlet 244b has an outlet 244b1, through which the water flows out to the water outlet 231 (see FIG. 20).

The flow path 244c communicates with the inlet 244a (more specifically, the inlet 244a1) on the upstream side. This allows water from multiple water supply channels 42 to flow into the flow path 244c via the inlet 244a and merge.

The flow path 244c is formed so that the downstream side is connected to the outflow section 244b (more specifically, the outlet 244b1). In addition, the flow path 244c is formed so that the width in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) becomes smaller as it approaches the outflow section 244b, in other words, as it moves downstream. As a result, the water that joins in the flow path 244c increases in speed as it moves downstream, as shown by arrow L1, and flows and is discharged through the outlet 244b1 of the outflow section 244b to the water discharge section 30 (see Figure 20).

In this way, the junction 244 according to the third embodiment does not have a collision wall, and is designed to prevent straightening of the flow due to collisions. This is because the water discharge section 230, which discharges foam water as described above, is less likely to cause disturbances in the discharged water due to water turbulence that occurs when the water flows together, and so the junction 244 is designed to prevent straightening of the flow due to collisions.

In this way, in the third embodiment, while collision-induced straightening is performed in the branching section 43 (see FIG. 19), collision-induced straightening is not performed in the merging section 244, making it possible to configure the water discharge device 1 appropriately according to the water discharge form of the water discharge section 230.

In the third embodiment, rectification due to collisions is not performed at the junction 244, but this is not limited thereto, and rectification due to collisions may also be performed.

The water discharge device 1 according to the third embodiment is provided with a flow dividing section 43 as shown in FIG. 19, but may instead be provided with, for example, the flow dividing section 143 according to the second embodiment.

(Modification)
Next, a modified example will be described. Fig. 23 is a diagram for explaining the water supply passages and the like according to the modified example. In the modified example, a water supply unit 300 having the functions of the above-mentioned multiple water supply passages, the branching section, and the merging section is used. In Fig. 23, the water discharge section 30 is shown as a schematic block.

As shown in FIG. 23, the water supply unit 300 is formed in a pouch shape (bag shape) with a liquid-tight periphery. For example, inside the water supply unit 300, multiple partition walls 345 are provided along the vertical direction parallel to the water flow direction.

In the water supply unit 300, the internal space is divided by such partition walls 345 to form a plurality of water supply channels 342. In the water supply unit 300, a branch section 343 is formed upstream of the plurality of water supply channels 342, and a junction section 344 is formed downstream of the plurality of water supply channels 342. The water supply pipe 41 is connected to the upstream side of the branch section 343 via the inflow section 343a. The water discharge section 30 is connected to the downstream side of the junction section 344 via the outflow section 344a.

As a result, in the modified water supply unit 300, water flowing in from the water supply pipe 41 through the inlet 343a is diverted into multiple water supply channels 342 at the diverting section 343, as shown by arrow M1. The diverted water flows through the multiple water supply channels 342, and then merges at the merging section 344, as shown by arrow M2, and flows through the outlet 344a to be discharged to the water discharge section 30.

In the modified example, even if the pouch-shaped water supply unit 300 described above is used, the same effects as in the previous embodiment can be obtained.

In the above-described embodiments and modifications, the storage space 50 is configured to store a portion of the water supply unit 40, but this is not limited thereto, and the storage space 50 may store the entire water supply unit 40. In other words, it is sufficient that the storage space 50 stores at least a portion of the water supply unit 40.

In the first and second embodiments described above, both the flow dividing section 43, 143 and the flow merging section 44 are provided with a rectifying section, but either one of the flow dividing section 43, 143 and the flow merging section 44 may be provided with a rectifying section. In other words, it is sufficient that at least one of the flow dividing section 43, 143 and the flow merging section 44 is provided with a rectifying section.

In the above, the water discharge device 1 is equipped with an automatic water faucet, but this is not limited thereto, and it may be equipped with a manual water faucet.

Further advantages and modifications may readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Water discharge device 12 Panel section 30 Water discharge section 40 Water supply section 41 Water supply pipe (first water supply passage)
42 Water supply channel (second water supply channel)
50 Storage space

Claims (6)

A water outlet section;
A water supply unit that supplies water to the water discharge unit;
A panel portion that is installed so as to face an installation surface,
A storage space for storing at least a part of the water supply unit is formed between the panel unit and the installation surface,
The water supply unit includes:
A plurality of second water supply passages are disposed in the accommodation space and connected to a downstream side of a first water supply passage connected to a water supply source;
A diversion unit connected between the first water supply passage and the second water supply passages, and diverts water from the first water supply passage to the second water supply passages;
a junction portion connected to downstream sides of the second water supply passages and junctioning water from the second water supply passages,
Each of the plurality of second water supply passages includes:
The outer dimension is smaller than the outer dimension of the first water supply passage, and the outer dimension is flexible.
At least one of the branching portion and the joining portion is
A water discharge device comprising a straightening section that straightens the water flowing through the water supply section. The rectifying unit is
The water discharge device according to claim 1, further comprising a collision wall against which water flowing from upstream collides. The flow dividing section is
A water discharge device as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the central axis of the flow path cross section at a plurality of outlets to which a plurality of the second water supply passages are respectively connected and from which water flows out into the second water supply passages is formed eccentrically relative to the central axis of the flow path cross section at an inlet to which the first water supply passage is connected and into which water from the first water supply passage flows in. The flow dividing section is
The water discharge device according to claim 3, characterized in that the distances from the central axis of the flow passage cross section at the plurality of outlets to the central axis of the flow passage cross section at the inlet are all equal. The outlet is
The water discharge device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the outlet is formed at a position not overlapping with the inlet when viewed from a central axis direction of a cross section of the flow path at the outlet. The second water supply passages include
The water discharge device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the lengths from a connection position with the branch portion to a connection position with the junction portion are formed to be the same.

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