JPWO2019224986A1 - Hot water mixing tap - Google Patents

Abstract

Providing an improved faucet with a new structure. The hot and cold water mixing tap 10 has a fixed valve body 62 having a hot water supply hole 80, a water supply hole 82 and a discharge hole 84, and a flow path forming recess 94, and is a movable valve capable of sliding on the fixed valve body 62. It includes a body 60 and a handle 14 capable of operating the movable valve body 60. The fixed valve body 62 has a pressure chamber 140 that is not connected to the discharge hole 84 but is connected to the hot water supply hole 80 or the water supply hole 82. The pressure chamber 140 may be connected to the water supply hole 82. The pressure chamber 140 may be connected to the hot water supply hole 80. The pressure chamber 140 may be provided at a position in the circumferential direction different from the hot water supply hole 80 and the water supply hole 82.

Description

The present disclosure relates to a hot water mixing tap.

As disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-2631, a hot water mixing tap including a fixed valve body and a movable valve body is known. The fixed valve body has a hot water supply hole, a water supply hole, and a discharge hole. The movable valve body has a flow path forming recess. The movable valve body moves by operating the handle. The movable valve body slides on the fixed valve body. As the movable valve body moves, the positional relationship between the movable valve body and the fixed valve body changes. Due to this change, the discharge amount and the hot water mixing ratio change.

The upper surface of the fixed valve body is a smooth surface. The lower surface of the movable valve body is also a smooth surface. Watertightness can be ensured by bringing these smooth surfaces into contact with each other.

JP-A-2017-2631

From the viewpoint of watertightness, a contact pressure is applied between the fixed valve body and the movable valve body. However, water leakage may occur between the fixed valve body and the movable valve body due to aged deterioration or wear of each member.

Increasing the contact pressure to suppress water leakage increases the sliding resistance of the movable valve body with respect to the fixed valve body. This increase in sliding resistance reduces the operability of the steering wheel. Further, when the contact pressure is increased, ringing (sticking of the movable valve body to the fixed valve body) is likely to occur.

Based on a new viewpoint, the present inventor has found a configuration capable of solving a problem relating to a fixed valve body. The present disclosure relates to a faucet modified by a novel structure.

In one embodiment, the hot water mixing tap has a fixed valve body having a hot water supply hole, a water supply hole, and a discharge hole, and a flow path forming recess, and is a movable valve body that can slide on the fixed valve body. And a handle capable of operating the movable valve body. The fixed valve body has a pressure chamber that is not connected to the discharge hole but is connected to the hot water supply hole or the water supply hole.

On one side, the pressure bias acting between the fixed valve body and the movable valve body is suppressed due to the water pressure from the pressure chamber.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a hot water mixing tap according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the lever assembly used in the hot water mixing tap of FIG. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly of FIG. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the lever assembly of FIG. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the fixed valve body. FIG. 6 is a plan view of the fixed valve body of FIG. FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the fixed valve body of FIG. FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of FIG. 9 (a) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. 8, and FIG. 9 (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB of FIG. FIG. 10 is a plan view showing an opening region of a hot water supply hole, a water supply hole, and a pressure chamber in the embodiment of FIG. FIG. 11 is a plan view showing a form in which the pressure chamber is removed from FIG. FIG. 12 is a plan view showing a typical hot water supply hole and an opening region of the water supply hole. FIG. 13 is the same plan view as in FIG.

[Findings underlying this disclosure]
As described above, problems such as water leakage, increased sliding resistance, and ringing may occur between the fixed valve body and the movable valve body. There is a trade-off between water leakage and sliding resistance. Similarly, there is a trade-off between leaks and ringing. Comprehensive solutions to these problems are difficult.

The fixed valve body has a water supply hole and a hot water supply hole. These supply holes are located offset from the center of the fixed valve body. Therefore, it was found that the force by which the water pressure pushes up the movable valve body is unevenly distributed. The present disclosure is based on such findings.

[Embodiment]
Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. In the following, the terms "water" and "hot water" are used. From the viewpoint of distinguishing the liquid from the hot water supply hole and the liquid from the water supply hole, "hot water" and "water" are used properly as needed. On the other hand, there is also a description that the liquid from the hot water supply hole and the liquid from the water supply hole are collectively referred to as "water".

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the hot water mixing tap 10 according to the embodiment. The hot and cold water mixing tap 10 has a main body 12, a handle 14, a discharge portion 16, a hot water introduction pipe 18, a water introduction pipe 20, and a discharge pipe 22. The discharge unit 16 has a head 24. The head 24 has a switching lever 26. By operating the switching lever 26, it is possible to switch between shower discharge and normal discharge. The hot and cold water mixing tap 10 is used in, for example, a kitchen, a wash basin, and the like.

Further, the head 24 has a switching button 28 and a display unit 30. A water purification cartridge (not shown) is built in the discharge unit 16. The switching button 28 switches between a flow path through which the water purification cartridge permeates and a flow path that does not permeate the water purification cartridge. When the flow path is switched to the flow path through which the water purification cartridge is transmitted, purified water is discharged. When the flow path is switched to a flow path that does not allow the water purification cartridge to pass through, raw water is discharged. The display unit 30 displays whether the discharged water is purified water or raw water.

The front-back position of the lever changes due to the back-and-forth rotation (vertical movement) of the handle 14. The discharge amount is adjusted by the front-back position of the lever. In the present embodiment, the discharge amount increases as the handle 14 is moved upward. On the contrary, the discharge amount may increase as the handle 14 is moved downward. The left-right position of the lever changes due to the left-right rotation of the handle 14. The mixing ratio of hot water and water changes depending on the left and right positions of the lever. The temperature of the discharged water can be adjusted by rotating the handle 14 left and right.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the lever assembly 38. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the lever assembly 38 along a cross section perpendicular to the lever axis. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the lever assembly 38. In the hot and cold water mixing tap 10, the lever assembly 38 is replaceable.

The lever assembly 38 is built in the main body 12 of the hot water mixing tap 10. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the lever assembly 38 includes a moving body 40, a housing 42, a rotating body 44, a lever 46, a lever shaft 48, an elastic member 50 for left and right clicks, an abutting body 52 for left and right clicks, and a shaft. It has 54, a front / rear click contact body 56, a front / rear click elastic member 58, a movable valve body 60, a fixed valve body 62, a packing 64, an O-ring 66, an O-ring 67, and a base body 68. The handle 14 is fixed to the lever 46.

The front-rear click contact body 56 and the front-rear click elastic member 58 are attached to the moving body 40. The front-rear click contact body 56 is in contact with the front-rear click engagement portion provided on the side surface of the lever 46 while being urged by the front-rear click elastic member 58 (torsional spring). The front / rear click engaging portion is not shown, but has irregularities. Due to this contact, a click feeling is generated as the lever 46 rotates back and forth.

The left and right click contact body 52 and the left and right click elastic member 50 are attached to the rotating body 44. The left / right click contact body 52 can come into contact with the left / right click engaging portion while being urged by the left / right click elastic member 50 (leaf spring). The left / right click engaging portion is not shown, but is provided on the inner surface of the housing 42. Due to the contact between the abutting body 52 and the left / right click engaging portion, a click feeling is generated due to the left / right rotation of the lever 46.

The base body 68 has a hot water introduction port 70, a water introduction port 72, and a discharge port 74. At the lower part of the base body 68, openings corresponding to each of the hot water introduction port 70, the water introduction port 72 and the discharge port 74 are provided, and the hot water introduction pipe 18 and the water introduction pipe 20 are provided in each of these openings. And the discharge pipe 22 are connected.

The fixed valve body 62 is located above the base body 68. The fixed valve body 62 is supported by the packing 64 from below, and is pressed against the movable valve body 60 by the packing 64. The base body 68 is provided with an engaging convex portion 76 for fixing the fixed valve body 62 and an engaging convex portion 77 for fixing the housing 42. The fixed valve body 62 is provided with an engaging recess 78 that engages with the engaging protrusion 76. The side surface of the fixed valve body 62 has an outer peripheral surface 79. Outer peripheral surfaces 79 are provided at a plurality of locations (4 locations) in the circumferential direction. The outer peripheral surface 79 is a circumferential surface.

The fixed valve body 62 has a hot water supply hole 80, a water supply hole 82, and a discharge hole 84. The hot water supply hole 80 penetrates the fixed valve body 62. The hot water supply hole 80 is connected to the hot water introduction port 70 of the base body 68. The water supply hole 82 penetrates the fixed valve body 62. The water supply hole 82 is connected to the water inlet 72 of the base body 68. The discharge hole 84 penetrates the fixed valve body 62. The discharge hole 84 is connected to the discharge port 74 of the base body 68.

In the fixed valve body 62, the supply holes 80 and 82 are arranged asymmetrically. When the left and right lever positions are in the front position, only water is discharged. That is, when the left and right lever positions are in the front position, the water discharge state is achieved. This configuration contributes to the saving of hot water and enhances energy saving. The supply holes 80 and 82 may be arranged symmetrically.

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

As shown in FIG. 3, a flow path forming recess 94 is formed on the lower surface of the movable valve body 60 (lower member 88). The flow path forming recess 94 opens downward. The upper part of the flow path forming recess 94 is closed.

A smooth surface PL1 is provided on the upper surface of the fixed valve body 62 (see FIG. 4). A smooth surface PL1 is formed in a portion where the holes 80, 82 and 84 do not exist. On the other hand, a smooth surface PL2 is provided on the lower surface of the lower member 88 (movable valve body 60). A smooth surface PL2 is provided in a portion where the flow path forming recess 94 is not formed. The watertight state is ensured by the surface contact between the smooth surface PL1 and the smooth surface PL2.

A lever engaging recess 98 that engages with the lower end 95 of the lever 46 is provided on the upper surface of the upper member 86. The lower end 95 of the lever 46 is inserted into the lever engaging recess 98 (see FIG. 3). The movable valve body 60 slides on the fixed valve body 62 in conjunction with the movement of the lever 46 (handle 14). The movable valve body 60 rotates in conjunction with the left-right rotation of the handle 14. The movable valve body 60 moves in conjunction with the forward / backward rotation of the handle 14, and the flow path forming recess 94 of the movable valve body 60 also moves.

The water discharge state is achieved by overlapping the flow path forming recess 94 with the hot water supply hole 80 and / or the water supply hole 82 and the discharge hole 84. The water discharge state includes a mixed discharge state, a hot water discharge state, and a water discharge state. When the flow path forming recess 94 overlaps the hot water supply hole 80 and the water supply hole 82, the mixed discharge state is achieved. In the mixed discharge state, the hot water from the hot water supply hole 80 and the water from the water supply hole 82 are mixed. When the flow path forming recess 94 overlaps only the hot water supply hole 80 and does not overlap the water supply hole 82, the hot water discharge state is achieved. In the hot water discharge state, only hot water is discharged from the hot water supply hole 80, and water is not discharged from the water supply hole 82. When the flow path forming recess 94 overlaps only the water supply hole 82 and does not overlap the hot water supply hole 80, the water discharge state is achieved. In the water discharge state, only water is discharged from the water supply hole 82, and hot water is not discharged from the hot water supply hole 80. When the flow path forming recess 94 does not overlap the hot water supply hole 80 and the water supply hole 82, the water stop state is achieved.

As shown in FIG. 4, the lever 46 has a shaft hole 100. A lever shaft 48 is inserted through the shaft hole 100.

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

The lever 46 is inserted into the lever insertion hole 106, and the shaft hole 100 of the lever 46 and the shaft hole 108 of the rotating body 44 are coaxially arranged. A lever shaft 48 is inserted into the shaft hole 100 and the shaft hole 108. By inserting the lever shaft 48, the lever 46 is fixed to the rotating body 44 in a state where it can rotate back and forth. The dimensions of the lever insertion hole 106 are set so as to allow the lever 46 to rotate back and forth. In the present application, the rotation of the lever 46 with the lever shaft 48 as the rotation axis and the rotation of the handle 14 accompanying the rotation are also referred to as "forward / backward rotation".

The moving body 40 is held by the rotating body 44 in a state where it can move up and down. The moving body 40 can only move up and down with respect to the rotating body 44, and cannot rotate relative to the rotating body 44. The moving body 40 is configured to rotate together with the rotating body 44 in conjunction with the left-right rotation of the handle 14, and to move up and down in conjunction with this rotation. The vertical movement of the moving body 40 is achieved by a cam mechanism formed between the moving body 40 and the housing 42. An inner surface convex portion (not shown) is formed on the inner surface of the moving body 40. This cam mechanism is configured by engaging an inner surface convex portion formed on the moving body 40 with a groove 112 (see FIGS. 3 and 4) provided in the housing 42. As shown in FIG. 4, the groove 112 is curved and extending. By moving the inner surface recess along the groove 112, the moving body 40 moves up and down while rotating. When the moving body 40 moves upward, the engagement related to the front-back click (the engagement between the contact body 56 and the front-back click engaging portion 59) is released. When the moving body 40 moves downward, the engagement related to the front-back click is achieved.

The moving body 40 is held by the rotating body 44 in a state where it cannot rotate relative to the rotating body 44. The moving body 40 rotates together with the rotating body 44. The handle 14, the lever 46, the moving body 40, and the rotating body 44 rotate together.

As shown in FIG. 4, the housing 42 has a small-diameter cylindrical portion 120, a large-diameter cylindrical portion 122, and a connecting portion 124. The connecting portion 124 extends in the radial direction of the housing 42. The small diameter cylindrical portion 120 has an upper opening 126. The large diameter cylindrical portion 122 has a lower opening 128. The groove 112 described above is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the small-diameter cylindrical portion 120.

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

The outer diameter of the circumferential surface portion of the upper portion 104 of the rotating body 44 is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the small diameter cylindrical portion 120. The upper portion 104 of the rotating body 44 is held in a small-diameter cylindrical portion 120 in a rotatable state. In this rotation, the outer peripheral surface of the upper portion 104 and the inner peripheral surface of the small-diameter cylindrical portion 120 slide. The large-diameter cylindrical portion 122 accommodates the base 102 of the rotating body 44, the movable valve body 60, and the fixed valve body 62.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the fixed valve body 62, FIG. 6 is a plan view of the fixed valve body 62 as viewed from above, and FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the fixed valve body 62 as viewed from below.

As described above, the fixed valve body 62 has a hot water supply hole 80, a water supply hole 82, and a discharge hole 84.

The hot water supply hole 80 has an upper opening line 80a. The upper opening line 80a is a contour line of the hot water supply hole 80 on the smooth surface PL1. The upper opening line 80a is a contour line of the upper opening of the hot water supply hole 80.

The water supply hole 82 has an upper opening line 82a. The upper opening line 82a is a contour line of the water supply hole 82 on the smooth surface PL1. The upper opening line 82a is a contour line of the upper opening of the water supply hole 82.

The discharge hole 84 has an upper opening line 84a. The upper opening line 84a is a contour line of the discharge hole 84 on the smooth surface PL1. The upper opening line 84a is a contour line of the upper opening of the discharge hole 84.

As shown in FIG. 6, the upper opening line 80a and the upper opening line 82a are not in a line-symmetrical relationship with each other. That is, the upper opening of the hot water supply hole 80 and the upper opening of the water supply hole 82 are not in a line-symmetrical relationship with each other. These may be in a line-symmetrical relationship with each other. The area of the region surrounded by the upper end surface 80a is smaller than the area of the portion surrounded by the upper opening line 82a. That is, the upper opening area of the hot water supply hole 80 is smaller than the upper opening area of the water supply hole 82. These upper opening areas may be the same. In the present application, the upper opening area is also simply referred to as an opening area.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the fixed valve body 62 has a grease holding portion 138 and a pressure chamber 140.

The grease holding portion 138 is provided on the smooth surface PL1. The grease holding portion 138 is provided radially outside the pressure chamber 140. The grease holding portion 138 is a groove opened upward. The grease holding portion 138 is a groove. A plurality of grease holding portions 138 are arranged so as to be dispersed in the circumferential direction. Grease is contained in the grease holding portion 138. With the use of the hot and cold water mixing tap 10, this grease is gradually supplied between the movable valve body 60 and the fixed valve body 62. This grease can enhance slidability and watertightness.

The grease holding portion 138 exists on the radial outer side of the pressure chamber 140. The grease holding portion 138 exists on the outer side in the radial direction of the hot water supply hole 80. The grease holding portion 138 exists on the radial outer side of the water supply hole 82. The grease holding portion 138 extends along an arc. The grease holding portion 138 is a groove. The grease holding portion 138 may be a recess that is not a groove.

The pressure chamber 140 is provided on the upper surface of the fixed valve body 62. The pressure chamber 140 is provided on the smooth surface PL1. The pressure chamber 140 does not penetrate the fixed valve body 62. The pressure chamber 140 has an upper opening line 140a. The pressure chamber 140 is a recess. The pressure chamber 140 is a recess that is open upward. The pressure chamber 140 is a groove.

The pressure chamber 140 has a connecting portion 140b and a main portion 140c. The connection portion 140b is connected to the water supply hole 82. The connecting portion 140b connects the water supply hole 82 and the main portion 140c. The width of the connecting portion 140b is smaller than the width of the main portion 140c. The connecting portion 140b may be omitted. For example, the width of the pressure chamber 140 may be constant. On the other hand, the position of the area center of gravity G1 (described later) can be adjusted by changing the width of the pressure chamber 140.

What is shown by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 6 is the minimum inclusion circle CL1 of the fixed valve body 62. In the present application, the minimum inclusion circle CL1 is defined as follows. The minimum inclusion circle CL1 is defined as the circle having the smallest radius among the circles including the entire fixed valve body 62 inside. The minimum inclusion circle CL1 is determined in a plan view as shown in FIG. This plan view is a projection drawing of the fixed valve body 62 on a flat surface parallel to the smooth surface PL1. In the present embodiment, the radius R of the minimum inclusion circle CL1 is equal to the radius of the circumferential surface including the outer peripheral surface 79. The radial direction in the present application is the radial direction of the minimum inclusion circle CL1. The circumferential direction in the present application is the circumferential direction of the minimum inclusion circle CL1.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of the plan view of FIG. 9 (a) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of the connecting portion 140b. 9 (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB of FIG. FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of the main portion 140c. 9 (a) and 9 (b) are cross-sectional views taken along the radial direction. Regarding the pressure chamber 140, in FIG. 8, only the upper opening line 140a (contour line) of the pressure chamber 140 is shown.

The width W of the pressure chamber 140 is changing. The width W1 of the connecting portion 140b is smaller than the width W2 of the main portion 140c. The specifications of the width W of the pressure chamber 140 are not limited. For example, the width W may be constant throughout the pressure chamber 140. The width W of the pressure chamber 140 can be determined in consideration of the position of the area center of gravity G1, the strength of the fixed valve body 62, the relationship with other valve holes, and the like. The width W, the width W1 and the width W2 are measured along the radial direction.

The depth D of the pressure chamber 140 may or may not change. Further, the cross-sectional shape of the pressure chamber 140 is not limited. As shown in FIG. 9A, the cross-sectional shape of the pressure chamber 140 may be a simple groove shape. As shown in FIG. 9B, the cross-sectional shape of the pressure chamber 140 may be a groove having a two-step bottom surface. The depth D and the cross-sectional shape of the pressure chamber 140 can be determined in consideration of the strength of the fixed valve body 62, the relationship with other valve holes, and the like. The depth D is measured along the direction perpendicular to the smooth surface PL1.

The pressure chamber 140 is not connected to the hot water supply hole 80. The pressure chamber 140 is connected to the water supply hole 82. The pressure chamber 140 is not connected to the discharge hole 84. The pressure chamber 140 is not connected to the outer edge PL10 of the smooth surface PL1. The pressure chamber 140 is not connected to the grease holding portion 138. The pressure chamber 140 is connected only to the water supply hole 82. The pressure chamber 140 is not connected to anything other than the water supply hole 82. The pressure chamber 140 is surrounded by the smooth surface PL1 except for the portion connected to the water supply hole 82.

In the present embodiment, the pressure chamber 140 is connected to the water supply hole 82 at one place. The pressure chamber 140 may be connected to the water supply hole 82 at two or more locations.

The pressure chamber 140 may be connected only to the hot water supply hole 80. The pressure chamber 140 is preferably connected to only one of the hot water supply hole 80 and the water supply hole 82.

Two or more pressure chambers 140 may be provided. A first pressure chamber 140 and a second pressure chamber 140 may be provided. The first pressure chamber 140 may be connected only to the hot water supply hole 80, and the second pressure chamber 140 may be connected only to the water supply hole 82.

In the present embodiment, the pressure chamber 140 is connected to the first end 82b of the water supply hole 82. The first end 82b is the end farther from the hot water supply hole 80 in the circumferential direction. The pressure chamber 140 extends from the first end 82b substantially along the discharge hole 84. The pressure chamber 140 extends substantially along the circumferential direction. The pressure chamber 140 is located on the radial outside of the discharge hole 84.

From the viewpoint of equalizing the pressure between the fixed valve body 62 and the movable valve body 60, the pressure chamber 140 is preferably connected to the first end 82b of the water supply hole 82 (see FIG. 8). From the same viewpoint, when the pressure chamber 140 is connected to the hot water supply hole 80, it is preferable that the pressure chamber 140 is connected to the first end 80b of the hot water supply hole 80. The first end 80b of the hot water supply hole 80 is the end farther from the water supply hole 82 in the circumferential direction.

Water flows into the pressure chamber 140 from the supply hole connected to the pressure chamber 140. The water pressure of the supply hole connected to the pressure chamber 140 is transmitted to the pressure chamber 140. In the present embodiment, the water pressure of the water supply hole 82 is transmitted to the pressure chamber 140. By providing the pressure chamber 140, the water pressure applied to the movable valve body 60 is dispersed from the supply holes 80 and 82. By providing the pressure chamber 140, the bias of the force with which the supply holes 80 and 82 push up the movable valve body 60 is suppressed. As a result, the bias of the contact pressure acting between the fixed valve body 62 and the movable valve body 60 is suppressed.

When the contact pressure is uneven, water leaks easily from the part where the contact pressure is low. In this case, it becomes necessary to set a higher base pressure from the viewpoint of raising the minimum contact pressure. The base pressure is a contact pressure applied between the movable valve body 60 and the fixed valve body 62 in a state where no water pressure is applied, and is supplied from, for example, packing 64 (see FIG. 4). Higher base pressure increases the sliding resistance of the movable valve body to the fixed valve body. Further, since the contact pressure is biased, a portion where the pressure is locally high is generated, so that the sliding resistance is further increased. This increase in sliding resistance reduces the operability of the steering wheel. Also, higher contact pressures can lead to ringing.

If the contact pressure is uneven, uneven wear can occur. This uneven wear shortens the life of the fixed valve body or the movable valve body. In addition, this uneven wear can cause water leakage.

By suppressing the bias of the contact pressure, the generation of the portion where the contact pressure is low is suppressed, and the water leakage is suppressed. Further, by suppressing the bias of the contact pressure, the sliding resistance can be lowered and the handle operability is improved. Furthermore, ringing and uneven wear can be suppressed.

FIG. 10 shows an opening region R1 in which the hot water supply hole 80, the water supply hole 82, and the pressure chamber 140 are combined. This opening region R1 is a region in the plan view of the fixed valve body 62. The contour lines of the opening region R1 are the upper opening line 80a of the hot water supply hole 80, the upper opening line 82a of the water supply hole 82, and the upper opening line 140a of the pressure chamber 140. In FIG. 10, this opening region R1 is filled.

In FIG. 10, the reference numeral C1 is the center of the minimum inclusion circle CL1 of the fixed valve body 62. In FIG. 10, reference numeral G1 is the area center of gravity (center of gravity) of the opening region R1. The area center of gravity G1 is close to the center C1. In the embodiment of FIG. 10, the bias of the contact pressure is suppressed.

FIG. 11 shows the opening region R1 when the pressure chamber 140 is excluded from the fixed valve body 62. In this embodiment, the area center of gravity G1 is deviated from the center C1 of the fixed valve body 62. Compared with the form of FIG. 10, the area center of gravity G1 is farther from the center C1. In the embodiment of FIG. 11, the contact pressure is largely biased.

FIG. 12 has an opening region R1 of a fixed valve body having a hot water supply hole 80 and a water supply hole 82 having a general shape. In this fixed valve body, the hot water supply hole 80 and the water supply hole 82 are arranged symmetrically. Also in this form, the area center of gravity G1 is deviated from the center C1 of the fixed valve body 62. Compared with the form of FIG. 10, the area center of gravity G1 is farther from the center C1. Even in the embodiment of FIG. 12, the bias of the contact pressure is large.

In this embodiment (FIG. 10), the area center of gravity G1 is closer to the center C1 than in the embodiments of FIGS. 11 and 12. In the present embodiment, the bias of the contact pressure is effectively suppressed.

In the present embodiment, the flow path forming recess 94 does not overlap the pressure chamber 140 in the entire movable range of the flow path forming recess 94. In other words, the flow path forming recess 94 does not overlap the pressure chamber 140 at all lever front-rear positions and all lever left-right positions. In the water discharge state, the flow path forming recess 94 does not overlap the pressure chamber 140. In the water-stopped state, the flow path forming recess 94 does not overlap the pressure chamber 140.

The pressure chamber 140 is connected to the water supply hole 82 or the hot water supply hole 80. Therefore, when the flow path forming recess 94 overlaps the pressure chamber 140 and the discharge hole 84, a water discharge state is established. That is, in this case, water that has passed through the pressure chamber 140 can be discharged. In the water discharge state, water may be discharged via the pressure chamber 140. In the present embodiment, the water that has passed through the pressure chamber 140 is not discharged in the water discharge state.

The following (a) to (f) are exemplified as configurations that can be adopted in the faucet of the present disclosure.
(A) The pressure chamber is connected only to the water supply hole 82. In the entire movable range of the flow path forming recess 94, the flow path forming recess 94 does not overlap the pressure chamber. The flow path forming recess 94 does not overlap the pressure chamber in the water discharge state, the hot water discharge state, and the mixed discharge state.
(B) The pressure chamber is connected only to the water supply hole 82. In the water discharge state, the flow path forming recess 94 overlaps the pressure chamber. The flow path forming recess 94 does not overlap the pressure chamber in the hot water discharge state and the mixed discharge state.
(C) The pressure chamber is connected only to the hot water supply hole 80. In the entire movable range of the flow path forming recess 94, the flow path forming recess 94 does not overlap the pressure chamber. The flow path forming recess 94 does not overlap the pressure chamber in the water discharge state, the hot water discharge state, and the mixed discharge state.
(D) The pressure chamber is connected only to the hot water supply hole 80. In the hot water discharge state, the flow path forming recess 94 overlaps the pressure chamber. The flow path forming recess 94 does not overlap the pressure chamber in the water discharge state and the mixed discharge state.
(E) A first pressure chamber and a second pressure chamber are provided. The first pressure chamber is connected only to the water supply hole 82. The second pressure chamber is connected only to the hot water supply hole 80. In the entire movable range of the flow path forming recess 94, the flow path forming recess 94 does not overlap the pressure chamber. The flow path forming recess 94 does not overlap the pressure chamber in the water discharge state, the hot water discharge state, and the mixed discharge state.
(F) A first pressure chamber and a second pressure chamber are provided. The first pressure chamber is connected only to the water supply hole 82. The second pressure chamber is connected only to the hot water supply hole 80. In the water discharge state, the flow path forming recess 94 overlaps the first pressure chamber. In the hot water discharge state, the flow path forming recess 94 overlaps the second pressure chamber. In the mixed discharge state, the flow path forming recess 94 does not overlap the first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber.

Generally, the water pressure in the water supply hole 82 is higher than the water pressure in the hot water supply hole 80 in which hot water is supplied via the hot water supply device. Therefore, providing a pressure chamber connected to the water supply hole 82 is more effective in equalizing the contact pressure than providing a pressure chamber connected to the hot water supply hole 80. From this point of view, the above configurations (a) and (b) are preferable.

When water is discharged through the pressure chamber, the flow rate of the discharged water tends to decrease and it tends to be difficult to control the amount of discharged water. From this point of view, it is preferable that the flow path forming recess 94 does not overlap the pressure chamber in the entire movable range of the flow path forming recess 94. From the same viewpoint, it is preferable that the flow path forming recess 94 does not overlap the pressure chamber in the water discharge state, the hot water discharge state, and the mixed discharge state. Therefore, the above configuration (a) is preferable to the above configuration (b). Further, the above configuration (c) is preferable to the above configuration (d). Further, the above configuration (e) is preferable to the above configuration (f).

The pressure chamber 140 can also function as a grease reservoir. The grease accumulated in the pressure chamber 140 can be gradually released. Further, due to the presence of grease, the water pressure in the pressure chamber 140 can be more reliably transmitted to the movable valve body 60. If the viscosity of the grease is too high, the grease accumulated in the pressure chamber 140 becomes difficult to move, and the water pressure may not reach the details of the pressure chamber 140. It is preferable to select grease in consideration of this point.

What is indicated by the double-headed arrow W in FIGS. 9 (a) and 9 (b) is the width of the pressure chamber 140. From the viewpoint of the opening area of the pressure chamber, the width W is preferably 2.3 mm or more, more preferably 2.5 mm or more, and more preferably 2.7 mm or more. Considering the limited dimensions of the fixed valve body 62 and the strength of the fixed valve body 62, the width W is preferably 3.1 mm or less, more preferably 2.9 mm or less, and more preferably 2.7 mm or less. The width W is measured along the radial direction.

In FIGS. 9 (a) and 9 (b), the depth of the pressure chamber 140 is indicated by the double-headed arrow D. From the viewpoint of water pressure transmission, the depth D is preferably 0.6 mm or more, more preferably 0.7 mm or more, and more preferably 0.8 mm or more. Since the pressure chamber only needs to be able to transmit pressure, it is not necessary to make the depth D excessive. Considering the limited thickness of the fixed valve body 62 and the strength of the fixed valve body 62, the depth D is preferably 1.0 mm or less, more preferably 0.9 mm or less, and more preferably 0.8 mm or less. The depth D is measured along the direction perpendicular to the smooth surface PL1.

In FIGS. 10, 11 and 12, what is indicated by the double-headed arrow S is the distance (mm) between the center C1 of the minimum inclusion circle CL1 and the area center of gravity G1. From the viewpoint of equalizing the contact pressure, the distance S is preferably small. From this viewpoint, the distance S is preferably 3.0 mm or less, more preferably 2.0 mm or less, more preferably 1.0 mm or less, more preferably 0.5 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.1 mm or less. The distance S may be zero.

As described above, the distance S is preferably small from the viewpoint of equalizing the contact pressure. When the radius of the minimum inclusion circle CL1 is R (mm), the S / R is preferably 0.5 or less, more preferably 0.4 or less, more preferably 0.3 or less, and more preferably 0.2 or less. It is preferably 0.1 or less, and more preferably 0.1 or less. S / R may be zero.

In the conventional example of FIG. 11, the distance S is 5.9 mm and the S / R is 0.33. Further, in the conventional example of FIG. 12, the distance S is 5.7 mm and the S / R is 0.32. On the other hand, in the present embodiment of FIG. 10, the distance S is 0.5 mm and the S / R is 0.03. In the present embodiment, the area center of gravity G1 is close to the center C1, and the bias of the contact pressure is suppressed.

The actual pressure distribution was measured in the embodiment of FIG. 10 and the conventional example of FIG. The upward load (base pressure) applied from the packing 64 to the fixed valve body 62 was set to 50 N. A water pressure of 0.2 MPa was applied to the hot water supply hole 80 and the water supply hole 82. A surface pressure sensor was installed between the fixed valve body and the movable valve body, and the pressure distribution was measured. As a result, in the embodiment of FIG. 10, the maximum value of the pressure was 0.5 MPa and the minimum value was 0.3 MPa. On the other hand, in the embodiment of FIG. 12, the maximum value of the pressure was 0.5 MPa and the minimum value was 0.2 MPa. As described above, in the embodiment of FIG. 10, the pressure bias was suppressed.

FIG. 13 is the same diagram as in FIG. In FIGS. 13 and 8, what is indicated by the double-headed arrow θ is the circumferential existence angle of the pressure chamber 140 and the water supply hole 82 connected to the pressure chamber 140. As described above, the water pressure in the water supply hole 82 is usually higher than that in the hot water supply hole 80, and the contact pressure can be efficiently equalized by increasing the angle θ. Further, in the configuration in which only the water is discharged from the water supply hole 82 when the left and right positions of the lever are in the front direction, the angle of existence of the water supply hole 82 in the circumferential direction tends to increase, so that the angle θ tends to increase. From these viewpoints, the angle θ is preferably 200 ° or more, more preferably 230 ° or more, and more preferably 260 ° or more. Considering the opening area of the hot water supply hole 80, the angle θ is preferably 300 ° or less, more preferably 290 ° or less, and more preferably 280 ° or less. In this embodiment, the angle θ is 278 ° (77% with respect to 360 °).

In FIG. 13, what is indicated by the double-headed arrow θc is the circumferential existence angle of the opening region Rc related to the water supply hole 82. The opening region Rc is an opening region in which the water supply hole 82 and the pressure chamber connected to the water supply hole 82, if any, are combined. In the present embodiment, the pressure chamber 140 is connected to the water supply hole 82, but when the pressure chamber is not connected to the water supply hole 82, this opening region Rc can be an opening region of only the water supply hole 82.

In FIG. 13, what is indicated by the double-headed arrow θh is the circumferential existence angle of the opening region Rh related to the hot water supply hole 80. The opening region Rh is an opening region in which the hot water supply hole 80 and the pressure chamber connected to the hot water supply hole 80, if any, are combined. In the present embodiment, the pressure chamber 140 is not connected to the hot water supply hole 80, but when the pressure chamber is connected to the hot water supply hole 80, this opening region Rh is the pressure connected to the hot water supply hole 80 and the hot water supply hole 80. It can be an opening area combined with the room.

The sum of the angle θc and the angle θh is the circumferential existence angle of the region (opening region R1) in which the hot water supply hole 80, the water supply hole 82, and the pressure chamber 140 are combined. From the viewpoint of equalizing the contact pressure, the sum of the angle θc and the angle θh is preferably large. (Θc + θh) is preferably 280 ° or higher, more preferably 300 ° or higher, and more preferably 320 ° or higher. From the viewpoint of securing the distance between the hot water supply hole 80 and the water supply hole 82 for appropriately setting the hot water mixing ratio and the strength of the fixed valve body 62, (θc + θh) is preferably 345 ° or less. 340 ° or less is more preferable, and 335 ° or less is more preferable. In this embodiment, (θc + θh) is 330 °.

The opening area of the water supply hole 82 is Mc, the opening area of the hot water supply hole 80 is Mh, and the opening area of the pressure chamber 140 is Mp. From the viewpoint of equalizing the contact pressure, (Mc + Mh) / Mp is not preferable whether it is too large or too small. (Mc + Mh) / Mp is preferably 0.9 or more, more preferably 1.0 or more, and more preferably 1.05 or more. (Mc + Mh) / Mp is preferably 1.2 or less, more preferably 1.1 or less, and more preferably 1.06 or less.

The material of the fixed valve body 62 is ceramic. The fixed valve body 62 is manufactured by firing a compression-molded powder. If there are corners on the bottom surface of the groove, cracks are likely to occur at the corners during the compression molding. From the viewpoint of suppressing the occurrence of cracks, in the cross-sectional views of the pressure chamber 140 (FIGS. 9A and 9B), it is preferable that the side surface of the groove and the bottom surface of the groove are smoothly connected.

From the viewpoint of suppressing the occurrence of cracks, the angle θ1 formed between the side surfaces of the grooves (see FIGS. 9A and 9B) is preferably 20 ° or more, more preferably 30 ° or more, and 40 ° or more. More preferred. If the angle θ1 is excessive, the groove volume with respect to the groove width W becomes small, and the pressure transmission may decrease. From this viewpoint, the angle θ1 is preferably 60 ° or less, more preferably 50 ° or less, and more preferably 40 ° or less.

From the viewpoint of suppressing the occurrence of cracks, the angle θ2 formed by the smooth surface PL1 and the side surface of the groove (see FIGS. 9A and 9B) is preferably 90 ° or more, more preferably 100 ° or more. 110 ° or more is more preferable. If the angle θ2 is excessive, the groove volume with respect to the groove width W becomes small, and the pressure transmission may decrease. From this viewpoint, the angle θ2 is preferably 130 ° or less, more preferably 120 ° or less, and more preferably 110 ° or less.

Examples of the material of the housing include resin and metal. This resin also includes a fiber reinforced resin. The sound generated when the click mechanism is manifested is preferably comfortable and easy to hear. The material of the housing affects this sound. From the viewpoint of obtaining good sound, durability, rust resistance, and hygiene, stainless alloy and fiber reinforced resin are preferable as the material of the housing. In the above embodiment, a glass fiber reinforced PPS resin was used. The PPS resin is a polyphenylene sulfide resin.

Examples of the material of the rotating body include resin and metal. This resin also includes a fiber reinforced resin. If the metals slide with each other when the lever is operated, an unpleasant noise may be generated. In addition, the material of the sliding surface fluctuates the frictional force, which affects the operability of the lever. From the viewpoint of operability and avoidance of unpleasant noise, a resin is preferable as a material of the rotating body, and a resin containing no reinforcing fiber is more preferable. In the above embodiment, a POM resin containing no reinforcing fibers was used. The POM resin is a polyacetal resin.

Examples of the material of the lever shaft include resin and metal. This resin also includes a fiber reinforced resin. Stainless alloys and resins are preferable from the viewpoint of suppressing corrosion by water. In the above embodiment, a stainless alloy was used.

Examples of the material of the upper member of the movable valve body include resin and metal. This resin also includes a fiber reinforced resin. If the metals slide with each other when the lever is operated, an unpleasant noise may be generated. From the viewpoint of avoiding unpleasant noise, resin is preferable as the material of the upper member. Further, by using the resin for the upper member, the manufacturing cost of the movable valve body as a whole can be suppressed. In the above embodiment, a POM resin containing no reinforcing fibers was used.

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

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

Examples of the material of the packing and the O-ring include a resin and a rubber material (vulcanized rubber). Due to the elasticity, the assembling property can be improved and the manufacturing error (dimensional error, etc.) can be alleviated. From these viewpoints, a rubber material is preferable. In the above embodiment, a rubber material was used.

Examples of the material of the base body include resin (including fiber reinforced resin) and metal. From the viewpoint of avoiding unpleasant noise and strength, fiber-reinforced resin is preferable, and glass fiber-reinforced resin is more preferable. In the above embodiment, a glass fiber reinforced PPS resin was used.

When a resin is used as the material of each of the above members, POM resin and PPS resin are preferable. The POM resin has little change in mechanical properties (tensile strength, etc.) with time when used for a long time and in a wide temperature range. Further, the POM resin is excellent in fatigue resistance against repeated stress loads. Further, in the POM resin, the dimensional change due to water absorption is small. The PPS resin has excellent strength and rigidity, and also has excellent wear resistance. Further, the PPS resin has a small shrinkage rate during molding and can achieve high dimensional accuracy. In order to further enhance these properties, the resin is preferably reinforced with short fibers such as glass fibers.

The following appendices are disclosed with respect to the above-described embodiments.
[Appendix 1]
Fixed valve body with hot water supply hole, water supply hole and discharge hole,
A movable valve body that has a flow path forming recess and can slide on the fixed valve body,
A handle that can operate the movable valve body and
Is equipped with
A hot water mixing tap in which the fixed valve body is not connected to the discharge hole and has a hot water supply hole or a pressure chamber connected to the water supply hole.
[Appendix 2]
The hot water mixing tap according to Appendix 1, wherein the pressure chamber is connected to the water supply hole.
[Appendix 3]
The hot water mixing tap according to Appendix 1 or 2, wherein the pressure chamber is provided at a position in a circumferential direction different from the water supply hole and the hot water supply hole.
[Appendix 4]
The distance between the center of gravity of the area of the opening region including the water supply hole, the hot water supply hole, and the pressure chamber and the center of the minimum inclusion circle of the fixed valve body is S (mm), and the radius of the minimum inclusion circle is The hot water mixing tap according to any one of Supplementary note 1 to 3, wherein the S / R is 0.5 or less when R (mm) is set.
[Appendix 5]
The hot water mixing tap according to any one of Supplementary note 1 to 4, wherein the circumferential existence angle of the region including the hot water supply hole, the water supply hole and the pressure chamber is 280 ° or more.

The present application also describes other inventions that are not included in the invention according to the claims (including the independent claims). Each of the forms, members, configurations and combinations thereof described in the claims and embodiments of the present application is recognized as an invention based on the action and effect of each.

Each of the embodiments, members, configurations, etc. shown in the above embodiments does not include all the embodiments, members, or configurations of these embodiments, but individually includes the invention according to the claim of the present application. It can be applied to all the described inventions.

10 ... Hot water mixing tap 14 ... Handle 16 ... Discharge part 18 ... Hot water introduction pipe 20 ... Water introduction pipe 22 ... Discharge pipe 38 ... Lever assembly 40 ... Movement Body 42 ・ ・ ・ Housing 44 ・ ・ ・ Rotating body 46 ・ ・ ・ Lever 48 ・ ・ ・ Lever shaft 60 ・ ・ ・ Movable valve body 62 ・ ・ ・ Fixed valve body 64 ・ ・ ・ Packing 66, 67 ・ ・ ・ O-ring 68 ・ ・ ・ Base body 80 ・ ・ ・ Hot water supply hole 82 ・ ・ ・ Water supply hole 84 ・ ・ ・ Discharge hole 86 ・ ・ ・ Upper member of movable valve body 88 ・ ・ ・ Lower member of movable valve body 94 ・ ・ ・・ Flow path forming recess 140 ・ ・ ・ Pressure chamber 140a ・ ・ ・ Upper opening line of pressure chamber 140b ・ ・ ・ Connection part 140c ・ ・ ・ Main part CL1 ・ ・ ・ Minimum inclusion circle of fixed valve body C1 ・ ・ ・ Minimum inclusion Center of circle R1 ・ ・ ・ Opening area including hot water supply hole, water supply hole and pressure chamber G1 ・ ・ ・ Area of opening area including hot water supply hole, water supply hole and pressure chamber Center of gravity

The moving body 40 is held by the rotating body 44 in a state where it can move up and down. The moving body 40 can only move up and down with respect to the rotating body 44, and cannot rotate relative to the rotating body 44. The moving body 40 is configured to rotate together with the rotating body 44 in conjunction with the left-right rotation of the handle 14, and to move up and down in conjunction with this rotation. The vertical movement of the moving body 40 is achieved by a cam mechanism formed between the moving body 40 and the housing 42. An inner surface convex portion (not shown) is formed on the inner surface of the moving body 40. This cam mechanism is configured by engaging an inner surface convex portion formed on the moving body 40 with a groove 112 (see FIGS. 3 and 4) provided in the housing 42. As shown in FIG. 4, the groove 112 is curved and extending. By moving the inner surface convex portion along the groove 112, the moving body 40 moves up and down while rotating. When the moving body 40 moves upward, the engagement related to the front-back click (the engagement between the contact body 56 and the front-back click engaging portion 59) is released. When the moving body 40 moves downward, the engagement related to the front-back click is achieved.

As shown in FIG. 4, the housing 42 has a small-diameter cylindrical portion 120, a large-diameter cylindrical portion 122, and a connecting portion 124. The connecting portion 124 extends in the radial direction of the housing 42. Small-diameter cylindrical portion 120 has an upper open mouth. Large-diameter cylindrical portion 122 has a lower open mouth. The groove 112 described above is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the small-diameter cylindrical portion 120.

As shown in FIG. 6, the upper opening line 80a and the upper opening line 82a are not in a line-symmetrical relationship with each other. That is, the upper opening of the hot water supply hole 80 and the upper opening of the water supply hole 82 are not in a line-symmetrical relationship with each other. These may be in a line-symmetrical relationship with each other. The area of the region surrounded by the upper opening line 80a is smaller than the area of the region surrounded by the upper opening line 82a. That is, the upper opening area of the hot water supply hole 80 is smaller than the upper opening area of the water supply hole 82. These upper opening areas may be the same. In the present application, the upper opening area is also simply referred to as an opening area.

Claims (5)

Fixed valve body with hot water supply hole, water supply hole and discharge hole,
A movable valve body that has a flow path forming recess and can slide on the fixed valve body,
A handle that can operate the movable valve body and
Is equipped with
A hot water mixing tap in which the fixed valve body is not connected to the discharge hole and has a hot water supply hole or a pressure chamber connected to the water supply hole. The hot water mixing tap according to claim 1, wherein the pressure chamber is connected to the water supply hole. The hot water mixing tap according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pressure chamber is provided at a position in a circumferential direction different from the water supply hole and the hot water supply hole. The distance between the center of gravity of the area of the opening region including the water supply hole, the hot water supply hole, and the pressure chamber and the center of the minimum inclusion circle of the fixed valve body is S (mm), and the radius of the minimum inclusion circle is The hot water mixing tap according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the S / R is 0.5 or less when it is R (mm). The hot water mixing tap according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the circumferential existence angle of the region including the hot water supply hole, the water supply hole and the pressure chamber is 280 ° or more.

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