JP2018012055A - Hose-contained watering nozzle - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a sprinkler nozzle with convenience enhanced by a nonconventional new configuration.SOLUTION: A hose storage type sprinkler nozzle 100 comprises a nozzle part 500 capable of changing water shape, a hose storage part 110, a connection part 130 extending from the nozzle part 500 to the hose storage part 110, and a grip part 150. The nozzle part 500 constitutes at least a part of the grip part 150. This hose storage type sprinkler nozzle 100 has a center of gravity G. The hose storage type sprinkler nozzle 100 can take an attitude that the center of gravity G is located below the nozzle part 500 in a vertical direction. The hose storage part 110 is, preferably, a hose reel. The hose reel 110 is, preferably, supported by a cantilever structure.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 32

Description

  The present invention relates to a hose-accommodating watering nozzle.

  Watering nozzles are used in various applications such as gardening, cleaning, and car washing. A watering nozzle capable of switching the water shape is known.

  Utility Model Registration No. 3074920 discloses "a watering nozzle and a frame-integrated hose reel".

Utility Model Registration No. 3074920

  The watering nozzle described in the above document has room for improvement in terms of operability and the like. An object of the present invention is to provide a watering nozzle that is improved in convenience due to a new configuration that has not been achieved in the past.

  A preferable hose-accommodating watering nozzle includes a nozzle portion that can change the water shape, a hose accommodating portion, a connecting portion that extends from the nozzle portion to the hose accommodating portion, and a gripping portion. The nozzle portion constitutes at least a part of the grip portion.

  Preferably, the hose-accommodating watering nozzle has a center of gravity. Preferably, the hose-accommodating watering nozzle can take a posture in which the center of gravity is positioned below the nozzle portion in the vertical direction in a state where the water discharge center line is horizontal.

  Preferably, the hose accommodating portion is a hose reel.

  Preferably, the hose reel is supported by a cantilever structure.

  Preferably, the hose reel has a drum. Preferably, the drum has a shaft portion and a disk portion. Preferably, a drum support portion that supports the disk portion in a state where the drum can be rotated is further provided.

  Preferably, the nozzle part is detachable from the connection part.

  A preferable watering device includes the hose-accommodating watering nozzle, the main faucet device, and a hose connecting the hose-accommodating watering nozzle and the original faucet device. The former faucet device has a discharge water switching part. The hose-accommodating watering nozzle has a nozzle portion that can change the water shape. The nozzle unit includes a remote control unit that switches between water discharge and water stop in the water discharge switching unit.

  A highly convenient watering nozzle can be provided by a new configuration that has not existed before.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a hose-accommodating watering nozzle according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle of FIG. 1 as viewed from above. FIG. 3 is a front view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle of FIG. FIG. 4 is a right side view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle of FIG. FIG. 5 is a left side view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle of FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F6-F6 of FIG. FIG. 7 is a sectional view taken along line F7-F7 in FIG. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a hose-accommodating watering nozzle according to the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a plan view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle of FIG. 8 as viewed from above. FIG. 10 is a front view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle of FIG. FIG. 11 is a right side view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle of FIG. FIG. 12 is a left side view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle of FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F13-F13 in FIG. FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a hose-accommodating watering nozzle according to the third embodiment. 15 is a plan view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle of FIG. 14 as viewed from above. FIG. 16 is a front view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle of FIG. FIG. 17 is a right side view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle of FIG. FIG. 18 is a left side view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle of FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F19-F19 in FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F20-F20 in FIG. FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a nozzle portion that is a part of a hose-accommodating watering nozzle. FIG. 22 is a plan view of the nozzle portion of FIG. 21 as viewed from above. FIG. 23 is a bottom view of the nozzle portion of FIG. 21 as viewed from below. FIG. 24 is a right side view of the nozzle portion of FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view (partial cross-sectional view) taken along line F25-F25 in FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view (partial cross-sectional view) taken along line F26-F26 in FIG. FIG. 27 is a diagram for explaining a change in a state accompanying the rotation of the rotating unit. 27A is a plan view in the first state C1, FIG. 27B is a cross-sectional view in the first state C1, and FIG. 27C is a plan view in the second state C2. (D) is sectional drawing in the 2nd state C2. FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a watering device including the hose-accommodating watering nozzle of FIG. FIG. 29 is a block diagram relating to wireless operation in the watering apparatus of FIG. 30 (a), 30 (b), 30 (c), and 30 (d) are diagrams showing changes in the cross-sectional shape of the folding hose. FIG. 31 (a) shows a cross section of a general hose, and each of FIGS. 31 (b), 31 (c) and 31 (d) shows a cross section of a flat hose. FIG. 32 shows an example of a usage state of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle of FIG.

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

  In the present application, the term “water discharge center line” is defined. The water discharge center line is the center line of the water shape of the water discharge. For example, in the case of a straight water shape, the center line of the water shape is the water discharge center line. For example, in the case of a shower water shape, the center line of the water shape (conical shape) is the water discharge center line. In each drawing, the water discharge center line WC is indicated by a one-dot chain line. The direction of the water discharge center line is the front-rear direction.

  In addition, when a centerline changes with water shapes, a water discharge centerline can be determined based on the water shape (for example, straight water shape) where water discharge is not scattered most. In determining the water discharge center line, changes in the water discharge direction due to gravity are ignored.

  In the present application, the term “reference posture” is defined. The reference posture means a state in which the water discharge center line is horizontal and the rotation axis Z2 (described later) of the hose reel is horizontal. Preferably, in this reference posture, the rotation axis Z1 (described later) of the rotating unit is horizontal. Unless stated otherwise, the terms upper (upper) and lower (lower) are used based on this reference attitude. That is, unless otherwise specified, the vertical direction referred to in the present application is the vertical direction in the reference posture.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 as viewed from above. FIG. 3 is a front view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100. FIG. 4 is a right side view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100. FIG. 5 is a left side view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F6-F6 of FIG. FIG. 7 is a sectional view taken along line F7-F7 in FIG.

  The hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 includes a nozzle portion 500, a hose accommodating portion 110, a connection portion 130 that extends from the nozzle portion 500 to the hose accommodating portion 110, and a gripping portion 150. The nozzle part 500 is fixed to the hose accommodating part 110 through the connection part 130. As will be described later, the nozzle unit 500 is detachably attached to the connection unit 130. As will be described later, the nozzle unit 500 can change the water shape.

  The connection part 130 comprises the structure part (frame part) of the hose accommodation type watering nozzle 100. FIG. The connection part 130 does not have a deformation | transformation ease like a hose. The connecting portion 130 has rigidity capable of maintaining its shape in the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 in which only the nozzle portion 500 is gripped. The hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 can be supported entirely by gripping only the grip portion 150.

  The nozzle part 500 also serves as the grip part 150 of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100. The nozzle part 500 constitutes at least a part of the grip part 150. In the present embodiment, the nozzle portion 500 constitutes a part of the grip portion 150. The grip part 150 has a cylindrical outer surface. The hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 can be operated with only the nozzle portion 500. The hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 can be operated with one hand. With one hand having the nozzle portion 500, the water shape can be changed. While holding the hose-containing watering nozzle 100 with one hand, the water shape can be changed with the other hand. The nozzle unit 500 is detachable from the connection unit 130. Details of the nozzle unit 500 will be described later.

  In the present embodiment, the hose accommodating portion 110 is a hose reel. The hose reel 110 includes a drum 112, a handle 114, a water supply port 116, and a water conduit 118 (see FIG. 6).

  In addition, as a hose accommodating part, the hose reel of the structure which winds a hose around a reel, the hose hanger which hooks and stores a hose, the hose container which accommodates in a container, without winding up a hose, etc. are mentioned. A hose reel is preferred from the viewpoint of hose storage / removability. On the other hand, a hose hanger is preferable from the viewpoint of housing a hose that is greatly deformed when water passes, such as a folding hose and a telescopic hose. The hose storage part may be box-shaped. Details of the folding hose and the telescopic hose will be described later.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the drum 112 has a shaft portion 120 and a disk portion 122. The shaft part 120 is located at the center of the disk part 122. The shaft part 120 and the disk part 122 are coaxial. The handle 114 is attached to the outer surface of the disk part 122. A hose is wound around the shaft portion 120.

  In a normal hose reel, a disk portion is provided at each of both end portions of the shaft portion of the drum. However, in this embodiment, the disk portion 122 is provided only at one end portion of the shaft portion 120. The disk portion 122 is not provided at the other end portion of the shaft portion 120. The other end portion of the shaft portion 120 is rotatably supported by the connection portion 130 (see FIG. 6). A bearing BR1 is used for this support.

  Thus, the shaft part 120 is supported by a cantilever structure. That is, the hose reel 110 is supported by a cantilever structure. The cantilever hose reel 110 is compact.

  The connection part 130 includes a drum support part 132, a disk facing surface 134, a bending extension part 136, and a water conduit 138. The drum support portion 132 rotatably supports the other end portion of the shaft portion 120. The disc opposing surface 134 forms an annular plane. The disc facing surface 134 forms a surface facing the inner surface of the disc portion 122. The hose wound around the shaft portion 120 is accommodated between the disk portion 122 and the disk facing surface 134. The bent extending portion 136 is bent from the drum support portion 132 and reaches the nozzle portion 500. The bent extending portion 136 is bent so that the position and posture of the nozzle portion 500 are appropriate. A nozzle mounting portion 140 is provided at the end of the bent extension portion 136. One end (upstream side) of the water conduit 138 is connected to the water conduit 118 of the hose reel 110. The water conduit 138 passes through the connecting portion 130. The other end (downstream side) of the water conduit 138 is connected to the water channel of the nozzle unit 500.

  FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a hose-accommodating watering nozzle 200 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a plan view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 200 as viewed from above. FIG. 10 is a front view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 200. FIG. 11 is a right side view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 200. FIG. 12 is a left side view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 200. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F13-F13 in FIG.

  The hose-accommodating watering nozzle 200 includes a nozzle part 500, a hose accommodating part 210, a first gripping part 230, and a second gripping part 250. The nozzle unit 500 is detachably attached to the hose housing unit 210. The nozzle part 500 is directly connected to the hose accommodating part 210.

  The nozzle part 500 also serves as the grip part (second grip part) 250 of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 200. The nozzle unit 500 constitutes a part of the gripping units 230 and 250. The hose-accommodating watering nozzle 200 can be operated with only the nozzle portion 500. Moreover, in the hose accommodation type watering nozzle 200, the nozzle part 500 can be operated while holding the first gripping part 230. By operating the nozzle unit 500, the water shape can be changed. Details of the nozzle unit 500 will be described later.

  In this embodiment, the hose accommodating part 210 is a hose reel. The hose reel 210 includes a drum 212, a handle 214, a water supply port 216, a water conduit 218, and an inner shaft portion 219 (see FIG. 13). The water conduit 218 is formed inside the inner shaft portion 219. The water conduit 218 and the inner shaft portion 219 are coaxial.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the drum 212 includes a shaft part 220 and a disk part 222. The shaft part 220 is located at the center of the disk part 222. The shaft part 220 and the disk part 222 are coaxial. The handle 214 is attached to the outer surface of the disk portion 222. By operating the handle 214, the shaft portion 220 rotates. A hose is wound around the shaft portion 220.

  The shaft part 220 is disposed outside the inner shaft part 219. The shaft part 220 is rotatably supported by the inner shaft part 219. The shaft portion 220 and the inner shaft portion 219 are coaxial. The water discharge center line WC coincides with the center axis of the shaft portion 220. The shaft part 220 is coaxial with the nozzle part 500. A nozzle unit 500 is disposed in front of the shaft unit 220.

  Also in the drum 212 of this embodiment, the disk part 222 is provided only at one end part of the shaft part 220. The disk portion 222 is not provided at the other end portion of the shaft portion 220. The other end portion of the shaft portion 220 is rotatably supported by the inner shaft portion 219 (see FIG. 13). A bearing BR1 is used for this support.

  Thus, the shaft part 220 is supported by a cantilever structure. That is, the hose reel 210 is supported by a cantilever structure. The cantilevered hose reel 210 is compact.

  The first grip part 230 is integral with the inner shaft part 219. The first grip part 230 includes a grip part main body 232 and a connecting part 234. The grip portion main body 232 extends in the front-rear direction. The connecting portion 234 connects the grip portion main body 232 and the inner shaft portion 219. There is a space between the grip portion main body 232 and the connecting portion 234, and the hose is accommodated in this space. A rear surface 236 of the connecting portion 234 faces the disc portion 222. The hose wound around the shaft part 220 is accommodated between the disk part 222 and the connecting part 234 (rear surface 236). This connection part 234 contributes to the alignment of the hose.

  In the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 200, the nozzle unit 500 is attached in front of the hose reel 210. As shown in FIG. 13, a water channel 217 extending from the water supply port 216 is connected to the rear end of the water conduit 218. A main water channel WT1 (described later) of the nozzle portion 500 is connected to the front end of the water conduit 218. The water channel 217, the water conduit 218, and the main water channel WT1 extend along a straight line (water discharge center line WC).

  FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a hose-accommodating watering nozzle 300 according to the third embodiment. FIG. 15 is a plan view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 300 as viewed from above. FIG. 16 is a front view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 300. FIG. 17 is a right side view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 300. FIG. 18 is a left side view of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 300. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F19-F19 in FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F20-F20 in FIG.

  The hose-accommodating watering nozzle 300 includes a nozzle portion 500, a hose accommodating portion 310, a connection portion 330 that extends from the nozzle portion 500 to the hose accommodating portion 310, and a gripping portion 350. The nozzle part 500 is fixed to the hose accommodating part 310 via the connection part 330. The nozzle unit 500 is detachably attached to the connection unit 330.

  In the present embodiment, the hose accommodating portion 310 is a hose reel. The hose reel 310 includes a drum 312, a handle 314, and a hose attachment part 316 (FIG. 20).

  As shown in FIG. 19, the drum 312 includes a shaft part 320, a first disk part 322, and a second disk part 324. The first disk portion 322 and the second disk portion 324 are opposed to each other with a predetermined interval. The shaft part 320 connects the first disk part 322 and the second disk part 324. The shaft part 320 connects the center of the first disk part 322 and the center of the second disk part 324. The shaft part 320 is coaxial with the first disk part 322 and the second disk part 324. A hose is wound around the shaft portion 320. A hose is accommodated between the first disk part 322 and the second disk part 324. A handle 314 is provided on the first disk portion 322. By operating the handle 314, the drum 312 rotates. By this rotation, the hose is wound around the shaft portion 320.

  The connection part 330 includes a drum support part 332, a nozzle holding part 334, and a bending extension part 336. The drum support part 332 supports the disk parts 322 and 324 in a state where the drum 312 can rotate. The drum support portion 332 supports the outer peripheral portion of the drum 312 so as to be slidable. This support structure will be described later.

  The bent extension part 336 is bent from the drum support part 332 and reaches the nozzle holding part 334. The bent extension portion 336 is bent so that the position and posture of the nozzle portion 500 attached to the nozzle holding portion 334 are appropriate. The nozzle holding part 334 has a cylindrical inner surface 338 that can hold the grip part of the nozzle part 500 from the outside (see FIG. 19). The nozzle unit 500 is detachably attached to the nozzle holding unit 334.

  In the present embodiment, the nozzle holding part 334 and the nozzle part 500 located inside the nozzle holding part 334 constitute a grip part 350. The nozzle part 500 constitutes a part of the grip part 350.

  The drum 312 is supported by the disk portions (the first disk portion 322 and the second disk portion 324) so that the drum 312 can rotate. The drum 312 is supported on the outer periphery of the disk portions 322 and 324.

  The outer peripheral support structure of the drum 312 will be described. As shown in FIG. 19, the first disk portion 322 has a slide groove SL1 formed along the circumferential direction (the circumferential direction of the drum 312). Similarly, the second disk portion 324 has a slide groove SL1 formed along the circumferential direction (the circumferential direction of the drum 312). These slide grooves SL1 are opened toward the inner side in the axial direction of the drum 312. On the other hand, the nozzle holding part 334 has a slide convex part SL2 formed along the circumferential direction (the circumferential direction of the drum 312). The slide protrusion SL2 protrudes outward in the axial direction (the axial direction of the drum 312).

  As shown in the enlarged portion of FIG. 19, the slide convex portion SL2 enters the slide groove SL1. A slide engagement structure along the circumferential direction is formed by the slide groove SL1 and the slide protrusion SL2. The slide projection SL2 can slide in the slide groove SL1. By this sliding movement, the entire drum 312 rotates. Thus, the outer peripheral part of the drum 312 is supported in a state where the drum 312 can rotate. The drum 312 is supported by the drum support portion 332 in a state where the drum 312 can rotate. The outer peripheral portion of the drum 312 is supported in a state where sliding in the circumferential direction is possible, and the drum 312 is rotated by this sliding. The disk portions 322 and 324 of the drum 312 are supported in a state where the drum 312 can be rotated by a slide engagement structure along the circumferential direction.

  In a normal drum, the shaft portion is rotatably supported. However, the shaft portion 320 of the drum 312 is not supported. As described above, the outer periphery of the drum 312 is supported in a state where the drum 312 can rotate. The drum 312 does not need to support the shaft portion 320. For this reason, size reduction of the hose reel 310 is achieved. Due to this outer peripheral support structure, the hose reel 310 is small, but the hose storage space is large. This outer peripheral support structure contributes to downsizing of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 300.

  In a typical method of using the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 300, first, all the hoses (not shown) wound around the hose reel 310 are pulled out. Next, the hose end portion attached to the hose attachment portion 316 is removed, and this hose end portion is attached to the water supply port 550 of the nozzle portion 500 (see FIG. 14).

  The hose-accommodating watering nozzle 300 can be operated with only the gripping part 350. The hose-accommodating watering nozzle 300 can be operated with one hand. The water shape can be changed by operating the nozzle portion 500 with one hand having the grip portion 350.

  In FIG. 2, what is indicated by a double arrow W1 is the full width of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle. From the viewpoint of operability, the total width W1 is preferably 250 mm or less, more preferably 220 mm or less, and even more preferably 200 mm or less. Considering the length of the hose that can be accommodated, the total width W1 is preferably equal to or greater than 100 mm, more preferably equal to or greater than 120 mm, and still more preferably equal to or greater than 150 mm. This full width W1 is measured along a direction perpendicular to the front-rear direction and perpendicular to the up-down direction.

  In FIG. 2, what is indicated by a double-headed arrow W2 is the total length of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle. From the viewpoint of operability, the total length W2 is preferably 350 mm or less, more preferably 300 mm or less, and even more preferably 270 mm or less. Considering the length of the hose that can be accommodated, the total length W2 is preferably 120 mm or more, more preferably 150 mm or more, and further preferably 200 mm or more. The total length W2 is measured along the front-rear direction.

  In FIG. 3, what is indicated by a double arrow W3 is the total height of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle. In light of operability, the overall height W3 is preferably equal to or less than 300 mm, more preferably equal to or less than 270 mm, and still more preferably equal to or less than 250 mm. Considering the length of the hose that can be accommodated, the total height W3 is preferably 100 mm or more, more preferably 120 mm or more, and still more preferably 150 mm or more. The total height W3 is measured along the vertical direction.

  In FIG. 3, a double arrow W <b> 4 indicates a gap between the grip portion 150 and the drum 122. From the viewpoint of downsizing the apparatus, the gap W4 is preferably 50 mm or less, more preferably 40 mm or less, and even more preferably 30 mm or less. From the viewpoint of ease of gripping, the gap W4 is preferably equal to or greater than 10 mm, more preferably equal to or greater than 15 mm, and still more preferably equal to or greater than 25 mm. The gap W4 is measured along the vertical direction.

  In addition, when the nozzle part expands and contracts with the switching of the water channel or the like, the above W1, W2, and W3 are measured in a state where the nozzle part 500 is most contracted (hereinafter also referred to as a reference state).

  The hose reel 110 is small. The drum 112 is small. In light of the operability of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100, the diameter of the drum 112 (disk portion 122) is preferably 300 mm or less, more preferably 270 mm or less, and even more preferably 250 mm or less. Considering the length of the hose to be accommodated, the diameter of the drum 112 (disk portion 122) is preferably 100 mm or more, more preferably 120 mm or more, and further preferably 140 mm or more.

  In FIG. 3, what is indicated by a double arrow RW is the hose accommodating width of the drum 112. In the case of the drum 112, the width RW is the distance (minimum distance) of the gap between the disk portion 122 and the disk facing surface 134. The width RW is measured along the direction of the rotation axis Z2 of the drum 112. In FIG. 3, what is indicated by a double arrow RH is the hose accommodation height of the drum 112. In the case of the drum 112, the height RH is a distance from the outer peripheral surface of the shaft portion 120 to the outer peripheral edge of the drum 112. This height RH is measured along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis Z2.

  From the viewpoint of securing the length of the hose accommodated while reducing the size of the hose reel, RH / RW is preferably 1.0 or less, more preferably 0.9 or less, and even more preferably 0.8 or less. When the RW is excessive, the position of the hose to be wound moves in the left-right direction, and the stability of the hose-containing watering nozzle tends to decrease. In consideration of the stability when it is held with one hand, RH / RW is preferably 0.2 or more, more preferably 0.3 or more, and still more preferably 0.4 or more.

  In FIG. 3, what is indicated by a double arrow ZH is a distance (maximum distance) between the outer peripheral surface of the shaft portion 120 and the rotation axis Z2. In the present embodiment, the distance ZH is the radius of the shaft portion 120. The shaft portion radius ZH is measured along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis Z2. From the viewpoint of increasing the length of the hose to be wound, the shaft radius ZH is preferably 50 mm or less, more preferably 45 mm or less, and even more preferably 40 mm or less. If the shaft radius ZH is too small, the winding radius becomes excessively small at the start of winding. For this reason, a large force is required for winding, and winding is difficult. In this respect, the shaft radius ZH is preferably 10 mm or more, more preferably 15 mm or more, and still more preferably 20 mm or more.

  In light of operability, the weight of the hose-containing watering nozzle is preferably 1500 g or less, more preferably 1200 g or less, and even more preferably 1000 g or less. Considering the length of the hose that can be accommodated, it is preferable that the hose accommodating portion has a size of a certain degree or more. In this respect, the weight of the hose-containing watering nozzle is preferably 400 g or more, more preferably 500 g or more, and still more preferably 600 g or more.

[Nozzle part]
Next, the detail of a nozzle part is demonstrated.

  FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the nozzle unit 500 used in the hose-accommodating watering nozzles 100, 200, and 300. FIG. FIG. 22 is a plan view of the nozzle unit 500 as viewed from above. FIG. 23 is a bottom view of the nozzle unit 500 as viewed from below. FIG. 24 is a side view of the nozzle unit 500. FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F25-F25 in FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F26-F26 of FIG.

  The nozzle unit 500 includes a discharge unit 502, a gripping unit 504, a rotation unit 506 that can be rotated, and a water shape switching mechanism that can switch discharge holes based on the rotation of the rotation unit 506. The gripping part 504 is a gripping part of the nozzle part 500, and the above-mentioned gripping part 150 is a gripping part of the hose-containing watering nozzle 100. In the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100, the discharge part 502 also serves as the grip part 150.

  Further, the nozzle unit 500 includes a remote operation unit RC1. The remote control unit RC1 has a first button b1 and a second button b2. Details of the remote control unit RC1 will be described later.

  As described above, the nozzle unit 500 can be used as a part of the hose-containing watering nozzle 100, 200, or 300. In addition, the nozzle part 500 can be removed from the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 and used alone.

  The discharge unit 502 has a cylindrical outer surface 508 on its side surface. The discharge unit 502 has a water discharge screen 510 on the front surface thereof. The water discharge screen 510 has a large number of discharge holes. Multiple water shapes are possible by selecting the discharge holes. Examples of the water shape include drills, straights, jogs, showers, and the like. The water shape preferably includes at least a straight water shape and a shower water shape.

  The nozzle unit 500 is small. The nozzle unit 500 has a size that can be easily held with one hand. The nozzle part 500 also serves as the grip part 150 of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100. If the nozzle unit 500 is small, it is easy to hold the hose-containing watering nozzle 100 with one hand. From the viewpoint of ease of holding with one hand, the total length L1 (see FIG. 22) of the nozzle portion 500 is preferably 200 mm or less, more preferably 170 mm or less, and even more preferably 150 mm or less. In light of ease of holding with one hand, the total length L1 of the nozzle portion 500 is preferably equal to or greater than 50 mm, more preferably equal to or greater than 70 mm, and still more preferably equal to or greater than 90 mm. The total length L1 is measured along the front-rear direction. When the nozzle unit 500 expands and contracts with the switching of the water channel, the total length L1 is measured in the reference state.

  The grip portion 504 has a size that can be held with one hand. In the nozzle part 500 removed from the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100, water can be sprayed by holding only the grip part 504 with one hand.

  The grip portion 504 has a cylindrical outer surface 520. The cylindrical outer surface 520 is coaxial with the cylindrical outer surface 508 of the discharge unit 502. The cylindrical outer surface 520 has a constant outer diameter. The cylindrical outer surface 520 constitutes at least a part of the grip portion 504. The cylindrical outer surface 520 may be the entire grip portion 504. From the viewpoint of ease of holding with one hand, the radius of the cylindrical outer surface 520 is preferably 50 mm or less, more preferably 45 mm or less, and even more preferably 40 mm or less. Even if this radius is too small, the ease of holding with one hand decreases. In this respect, the radius of the cylindrical outer surface 520 is preferably 20 mm or more, more preferably 25 mm or more, and further preferably 30 mm or more.

  From the viewpoint of ease of holding with one hand, the length L2 (see FIG. 22) of the cylindrical outer surface 520 is preferably 150 mm or less, more preferably 140 mm or less, and even more preferably 130 mm or less. In light of ease of holding with one hand, the length L2 is preferably equal to or greater than 50 mm, more preferably equal to or greater than 70 mm, and still more preferably equal to or greater than 90 mm. The length L2 is measured along the front-rear direction.

  Note that the central axis of the cylindrical outer surface 520 extends in the front-rear direction. The central axis of the cylindrical outer surface 520 coincides with the water discharge center line WC. This cylindrical outer surface 520 is easy to hold with one hand and can be easily discharged in the intended direction.

  The cylindrical outer surface 520 may have a recessed portion that is recessed from the cylindrical outer surface in a part of the circumferential direction. Since the concave portion does not protrude, the ease of holding the cylindrical outer surface 520 is not hindered. In the present embodiment, the recess is configured by the remote operation unit RC1. In addition, the cylindrical outer surface 520 may have a convex portion protruding from the cylindrical outer surface in a part of the circumferential direction. This convex part can contribute to prevention of slipping.

  The nozzle unit 500 includes a virtual cylinder housing unit 522. The virtual cylinder housing portion 522 means a portion that can be completely housed in a virtual cylinder having a radius of 35 mm, for example. The virtual cylinder housing part 522 has a thickness suitable for being held with one hand. The virtual cylinder housing portion 522 can improve the ease of holding with one hand. The reason why such a virtual cylinder is set is that even if it does not have a cylindrical outer surface 520 (circumferential surface), it may have a thickness suitable for holding with one hand. In addition, although the radius of the virtual cylinder accommodating part 522 was set to 35 mm as described above, it is preferably 50 mm or less, more preferably 45 mm or less, and still more preferably 40 mm or less for the same reason as the radius of the upper engagement part 520. Even if this radius is too small, the ease of holding with one hand decreases. In this respect, the radius of the virtual cylinder housing portion 522 is preferably 20 mm or more, more preferably 25 mm or more, and further preferably 30 mm or more.

  The virtual cylinder housing part 522 may include a rotating part 506. The virtual cylinder housing part 522 may not include the rotating part 506. Preferably, the virtual cylinder housing part 522 includes at least a part of the grip part 504. More preferably, the virtual cylinder housing part 522 includes the entire gripping part 504.

  From the viewpoint of ease of holding with one hand, the longitudinal length of the virtual cylinder housing portion 522 is preferably 150 mm or less, more preferably 140 mm or less, and even more preferably 130 mm or less. From the viewpoint of ease of holding with one hand, the length in the front-rear direction of the virtual cylinder housing portion 522 is preferably 50 mm or more, more preferably 70 mm or more, and still more preferably 90 mm or more.

  This virtual cylinder housing part is also applied to the gripping part 150 of the hose housing type watering nozzle 100. All of the description regarding the virtual cylinder housing part 522 of the nozzle unit 500 is also applied to the virtual cylinder housing part of the gripping unit 150. The range of the virtual cylinder housing part in the gripping part 150 of the hose housing type watering nozzle 100 is indicated by a double-headed arrow K4 in FIG.

  The rotation unit 506 is disposed between the grip unit 504 and the discharge unit 502 (water discharge screen 510). The rotating unit 506 includes an operation unit 530. The operation unit 530 is cylindrical. The outer surface of the operation unit 530 is a cylindrical surface having irregularities (splines). This unevenness contributes to slip prevention.

  A part of the rotating unit 506 is exposed to the outside. Only a part of the rotating part 506 is exposed. This exposed portion is the operation unit 530. The rotating unit 506 is disposed in front of the cylindrical outer surface 520. The rotating unit 506 is disposed at a position close to the cylindrical outer surface 520. The shortest distance L3 (see FIG. 22) between the operation unit 530 and the cylindrical outer surface 520 is as small as 2.5 mm. Moreover, the longest distance L4 (refer FIG. 22) between the operation part 530 and the cylindrical outer surface 520 is as small as 20.5 mm. The nozzle unit 500 is configured such that the rotating unit 506 can be rotated with one hand holding the grip unit 504 (the grip unit 150). In a normal usage pattern, the rotating unit 506 is operated with the thumb of one hand holding the gripping unit 504 (the gripping unit 150).

  As shown in FIG. 22, the rotating unit 506 has a rotation axis Z1. The orientation of the rotation axis Z1 is the left-right direction. The left-right direction is a direction perpendicular to the front-rear direction. In the nozzle unit 500 in the reference posture, the left-right direction coincides with the left-right direction for the user. The rotation axis Z1 is not oriented in the front-rear direction. The rotation axis Z1 does not intersect the central axis of the cylindrical outer surface 520. The rotation axis Z1 is located above the central axis of the cylindrical outer surface 520. The rotation axis Z1 does not intersect the water discharge center line WC. The rotation axis Z1 is located above the water discharge center line WC.

  As illustrated in FIG. 22, the rotation axis Z <b> 1 of the rotation unit 506 is disposed in front of the grip unit 504. The rotation axis Z1 is disposed in front of the cylindrical outer surface 520. The rotation axis Z <b> 1 is disposed in front of the virtual cylinder housing 522.

  In light of the operability of the rotating unit 506, the shortest distance L3 (see FIG. 22) between the operating unit 530 and the cylindrical outer surface 520 is preferably 30 mm or less, more preferably 20 mm or less, and even more preferably 10 mm or less. This shortest distance L3 may be 0 mm. The shortest distance L3 is measured along the front-rear direction. The distance L3 is measured in the reference state.

  From the viewpoint of operability with one hand, the longest distance L4 (see FIG. 22) between the operation unit 530 (or virtual cylinder housing 522) and the cylindrical outer surface 520 is preferably 50 mm or less, more preferably 40 mm or less, and 30 mm. The following is more preferable. Considering the size of the operation unit 530, the longest distance L4 is preferably 10 mm or more, more preferably 15 mm or more, and further preferably 20 mm or more. The longest distance L4 is measured along the front-rear direction. The distance L4 is measured in the reference state.

  From the viewpoint of operability with one hand, the longitudinal length L5 (see FIG. 22) of the operation portion 530 is preferably 10 mm or more, more preferably 15 mm or more, and further preferably 20 mm or more. In light of operability, the length L5 is preferably equal to or less than 50 mm, more preferably equal to or less than 40 mm, and still more preferably equal to or less than 30 mm.

  From the viewpoint of operability with one hand, the shortest distance (not shown) between the operation unit 530 of the rotating unit 506 and the virtual cylinder housing unit 522 is preferably 30 mm or less, more preferably 20 mm or less, and even more preferably 10 mm or less. . This distance may be 0 mm. Part or all of the operation unit 530 may be included in the virtual cylinder housing unit 522. This distance is measured along the front-rear direction.

  From the viewpoint of operability with one hand, the maximum distance L6 (see FIG. 24) between the operation unit 530 and the water discharge center line WC is preferably 10 mm or more, more preferably 15 mm or more, and still more preferably 20 mm or more. In light of operability with one hand, the distance L6 is preferably equal to or less than 50 mm, more preferably equal to or less than 40 mm, and still more preferably equal to or less than 35 mm. The distance L6 is measured along the vertical direction.

  From the viewpoint of operability with one hand, the maximum discharge height L7 (see FIG. 24) of the operation unit 530 is preferably 0 mm or more, more preferably 5 mm or more, and still more preferably 8 mm or more. In light of operability with one hand, the height L7 is preferably equal to or less than 20 mm, more preferably equal to or less than 15 mm, and still more preferably equal to or less than 12 mm. The distance L7 is measured along the vertical direction. The height L7 is the height of the operation unit 530 viewed from the rear.

  The nozzle unit 500 has a non-rotating outer surface 524 on the back side (lower side) of the operation unit 530. The non-rotating outer surface 524 is a portion that does not rotate with the rotation of the rotating unit 506. When rotating the rotating unit 506, the non-rotating outer surface 524 can be supported. For example, the non-rotating outer surface 524 can be supported by the index finger of the handle while operating the rotating unit 506 with the thumb of the handle. The non-rotating outer surface 524 improves the operability of the rotating unit 506.

  Note that the back side of the operation unit 530 means a portion overlapping the operation unit 530 in a plan view as shown in FIG. This plan view is a plan view of the nozzle unit 500 in the reference posture as viewed from above. When the operation unit 530 moves, the back side of the operation unit 530 is determined by the area of the operation unit 530 in the entire movement range.

  As shown in FIG. 23, in this embodiment, the non-rotating outer surface 524 is a cylindrical surface that is coaxial with the cylindrical outer surface 520. The non-rotating outer surface 524 is a cylindrical surface having the same radius as the cylindrical outer surface 520. For this reason, it is easy to support the non-rotating outer surface 524, and the operability of the rotating portion 506 is enhanced.

  As shown in FIGS. 25 and 26, the nozzle portion 500 includes a main pipe portion 532 in which a main water channel WT1 is formed, a sleeve SV1, a first water channel P1, and a second water channel P2. The main water channel WT1 and the main pipe portion 532 extend in the front-rear direction at the center of the nozzle portion 500. The central axis of the main pipe part 532 coincides with the water discharge center line WC. The central axis of the main water channel WT1 coincides with the water discharge center line WC. Water from a hose or the like is supplied to the main water channel WT1. A part of the outer surface of the sleeve SV1 is the non-rotating outer surface 524 described above. The sleeve SV1 supports the central axis of the rotating unit 506. The sleeve SV1 supports the rotating unit 506 so as to be rotatable.

  As illustrated in FIGS. 25 and 26, the rotating unit 506 includes a gear G1. The gear G1 is coaxial with the rotating unit 506. The gear G1 rotates together with the rotating unit 506 (integrally). The gear G1 is a pinion gear. On the other hand, a rack gear G2 is provided on the fixed portion side (main pipe portion 532 side). The pinion gear G1 and the rack gear G2 are meshed with each other.

  FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating a change accompanying the rotation of the rotating unit 506. In FIG. 27, the first state C1 and the second state C2 are shown. FIG. 27A is a plan view of the nozzle unit 500 in the first state C1. FIG. 27B is a cross-sectional view of the nozzle unit 500 in the first state C1. FIG. 27B is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. FIG. 27C is a plan view of the nozzle unit 500 in the second state C2. FIG. 27D is a cross-sectional view of the nozzle unit 500 in the second state C2. FIG.27 (d) is sectional drawing along the DD line | wire of FIG.27 (c).

  When the rotating unit 506 is rotated, the pinion gear G1 is rotated. The pinion gear G1 moves while rolling on the rack gear G2. Along with the pinion gear G1, the sleeve SV1 also moves. With this movement, it is selected which water channel the discharge port E1 of the main water channel WT1 communicates with by this relative movement. In the first state C1, the first water channel P1 is selected. In the first state C1, water is discharged from the discharge hole connected to the first water channel P1. In the second state C2, the second water channel P2 is selected. In the second state C2, water is discharged from the discharge hole connected to the second water channel P2.

  In the nozzle unit 500, the position of the rotating unit 506 changes as the rotating unit 506 rotates. In the nozzle unit 500, the rotating unit 506 moves in the front-rear direction as the rotating unit 506 rotates.

  As shown in FIG. 22, the width direction center position RZ of the operation unit 530 coincides with the width direction center position of the nozzle unit 500.

  By the rotation of the rotating unit 506, mutual transition between the first state C1 and the second state C2 is possible. In the first state C <b> 1, the sleeve SV <b> 1 is located most rearward with respect to the grip portion 504. When the rotating portion 506 is rotated from the first state C1, the sleeve SV1 moves forward with respect to the grip portion 504. When the rotating unit 506 is further rotated, the second state C2 is reached. A state between the first state C1 and the second state C2 can also be arbitrarily selected. The discharge amount can be adjusted by the rotation of the rotating unit 506.

  Thus, the nozzle unit 500 includes a water shape switching mechanism that can switch the discharge hole based on the rotation of the rotating unit 506. The water shape switching mechanism is configured to switch the water channels P1 and P2 as the rotating unit 506 rotates. This water-type switching mechanism has a conversion mechanism that can convert the rotation of the rotating unit 506 into movement in the front-rear direction. In the nozzle unit 500, a rack and pinion mechanism is adopted as the conversion mechanism.

  The movable rotation angle of the rotating unit 506 is 225 °. The gear ratio is set so that this movable rotation angle is realized. The rotating unit 506 having a large movable rotation angle can be operated with a small force, and delicate adjustment is easy. From these viewpoints, the movable rotation angle of the rotating unit 506 is preferably 90 ° or more, more preferably 180 ° or more, and more preferably 240 ° or more. If the movable rotation angle is excessive, the amount of work required for the operation becomes excessive. From this viewpoint, the movable rotation angle of the rotating unit 506 is preferably 450 ° or less, more preferably 360 ° or less, and more preferably 300 ° or less.

  The rotation radius of the rotation unit 506 is 9 mm. With this small turning radius, the amount of movement of the finger to be operated is suppressed, and the operability with one hand is improved. In this respect, the rotation radius of the rotating unit 506 is preferably 20 mm or less, more preferably 15 mm or less, and more preferably 10 mm or less. If this turning radius is too small, the distance between the center of rotation and the point of action of the force becomes small, and a large force is required to apply the same rotational moment. From the viewpoint of enhancing the operability by increasing the rotational moment, the rotational radius of the rotating portion 506 is preferably 5 mm or more, and more preferably 7 mm or more.

  The nozzle unit 500 includes a fixed member that does not move by the rotation of the rotating unit, and a moving member that moves by the rotation of the rotating unit.

  In the nozzle part 500, the grip part 504 and the main pipe part 532 are fixed members, and the rotating part 506 and the sleeve SV1 are moving members (see FIG. 27). The sleeve SV <b> 1 is a water channel switching member that moves with the rotation of the rotating unit 506 and switches the water channel.

  In the nozzle unit 500, the rotation axis of the rotating unit is oriented in the left-right direction. Therefore, the operation for rotating the rotating part is movement in the front-rear direction. This operation can be easily performed with the thumb of the hand having the grip. The operability is improved by setting the rotation axis of the rotating part to the left-right direction.

  The orientation direction of the rotation axis of the rotating part is not limited. For example, the rotation axis of the rotating unit may be oriented in the front-rear direction. The rotation axis of the rotating part may be oriented in the front-rear direction. In this case, it is necessary to move the thumb of the hand holding the grip portion in the left-right direction, but this movement is possible.

  As shown in FIG. 27, in the nozzle unit 500, the position of the rotating unit is moved by the rotation of the rotating unit. Also in this case, if the moving distance is short, the influence on the operability is limited. From the viewpoint of operability, the movable distance in the front-rear direction of the rotating part is preferably 20 mm or less, more preferably 18 mm or less, and more preferably 15 mm or less. Considering the switching of the water channel, the movable distance is preferably 5 mm or more, more preferably 7 mm or more, and more preferably 10 mm or more.

  In the nozzle unit 500 of FIG. 27, the position of the rotating unit 506 moves as the rotating unit 506 rotates. However, the movement distance D1 is smaller than the rotation circumferential length R1 of the rotation unit 506 necessary for the movement. The rotation circumference is a movement distance of the surface of the rotation unit 506. For example, when the rotation unit 506 having the radius r is rotated 360 °, the rotation circumference is equal to the circumference of the circle having the radius r.

  Thus, since the moving distance D1 is smaller than the rotation circumference R1, the movement of the rotating unit 506 is suppressed, and the operability with one hand is good. From the viewpoint of operability with one hand, D1 / R1 is preferably 0.7 or less, more preferably 0.6 or less, and even more preferably 0.5 or less. Considering the switching of water channels, it is necessary to secure a certain amount of D1. On the other hand, if the rotational circumference R1 is excessively large, the amount of operation work increases. From these viewpoints, D1 / R1 is preferably 0.1 or more, more preferably 0.2 or more, and more preferably 0.3 or more.

  In the nozzle unit 500, the center position in the width direction of the operation unit coincides with the center position in the width direction of the nozzle (see FIG. 22). For this reason, it is easy to operate the operation part with the thumb of the hand holding the grip part. In this case, the operability with the thumb is high regardless of whether the holding portion is held with the right hand or the left hand.

  In the nozzle unit 500 described above, only a part of the rotating unit is exposed. The nozzle part is not limited to this configuration. All of the rotating part may be exposed. For example, the rotating part may be disk-shaped, and the rotation axis of the rotating part may be orthogonal to the central axis of the nozzle body. In this case, for example, the nozzle can be used in a state where the disk-shaped rotating portion is positioned on the side surface of the nozzle.

  The nozzle unit 500 has a rotation engagement unit 540 that engages with the rotation unit 506 and prevents the rotation of the rotation unit 506 (see FIG. 25). The rotation engaging part 540 engages with the concave-convex engaging part 512 provided in the rotating part 506, and suppresses the rotation of the rotating part 506 due to water pressure. However, from the viewpoint of operability, the minimum force (threshold value) required to rotate the rotating unit 506 is set low.

  In the nozzle unit 500, the water shape switching mechanism has a discharge amount adjusting function. Since the discharge amount can be adjusted with one hand, it is highly convenient. On the other hand, in the nozzle unit 500, the water shape switching mechanism does not have a water stop function (discharge water switching function). Instead, the nozzle unit 500 includes a remote operation unit RC1 that can instruct water discharge and water stop by remote operation. Switching between water stop and water discharge is achieved by a water faucet device MT1 (described later) instructed wirelessly from the remote control unit RC1. Since water is not stopped on the nozzle side and water is stopped on the original faucet side, the pressure acting on the hose can be reduced. For this reason, the freedom degree of selection of a hose increases, such as using a hose with low pressure resistance. Note that the water shape switching mechanism may have a water stop function. The water shape switching mechanism may have a spouting water switching function.

  In the above-described embodiment, it is not necessary to rotate the outer sleeve as in the conventional nozzle. Further, the operation direction is not the left-right direction but the front-back direction. For this reason, it can operate easily with the thumb of the hand which has the holding part of a hose accommodation type watering nozzle. In the nozzle part 500, the axis of the rotating part is supported from both sides. Therefore, stable rotation is possible even if force is applied to the rotating part. The rotating parts supported from both sides contribute to improvement in operability.

  The shape of the nozzle part mentioned above is a substantially cylindrical shape as a whole. Examples of the shape of the other nozzle part include a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, a substantially elliptical column shape, and a substantially U shape. From the viewpoint of waterproofing, a substantially cylindrical shape and a substantially elliptical column shape are preferable. Considering the sealing property, a substantially cylindrical shape is more preferable.

  The hose-accommodating watering nozzle is also used outdoors. In this use, foreign matters such as sand biting may occur. From this viewpoint, it is preferable that a portion (gear drive portion) where the gears are engaged with each other is not exposed to the outside.

[Watering device]
The hose-accommodating watering nozzle may further include an original faucet device MT1. A watering device may be configured by the hose-accommodating watering nozzle and the original faucet device MT1.

  FIG. 28 is a perspective view showing an example of a watering device 900 having the above-described hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 and the original water faucet device MT1. The watering device 900 includes a hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100, a water faucet device MT1, and a hose HS1.

  The former faucet device MT1 is attached to the first end of the hose HS1. The hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 is attached to the second end of the hose HS1. Hose HS1 has connected hose accommodation type watering nozzle 100 and former faucet device MT1.

  The watering device 900 is for outdoor use. The watering device 900 is used by being connected to a faucet. The watering device 900 is used for gardening, cleaning, car washing, watering and the like.

  The faucet means an outlet portion of a pipe that supplies water such as tap water. The connection between the faucet and the main faucet device is preferably a connector connection in which the faucet side and the main faucet device side are connected using a connector. In this connector connection, a configuration in which the first connector is provided in the faucet and the second connector is provided in the main faucet device, and the first connector and the second connector are connected is preferable. Moreover, it is preferable that the connection of both connectors is realized by pressing one of the connectors into the other to connect the two connectors to each other. Moreover, it is preferable that the connection structure of both these connectors has a holding mechanism which can hold | maintain the said connection state. The first connector may be provided integrally with the faucet, or may be separate from the faucet and detachably or non-removably attached to the faucet. Each of the second connectors may be provided integrally with the original faucet device, or is separate from the original faucet device and is detachably or non-removably attached to the original faucet device. May be. In addition to the above connector connection, a connection by screw connection between a male screw and a female screw, a connection by fixing with a bolt / nut, a connection by tightening with a fixing band, etc. can be used. Is the most preferred configuration.

  In the watering device 900, there is one hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100, one water faucet device MT1, and one hose HS1. In the watering device 900, the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 and the main faucet device MT1 correspond to each other. There may be a plurality of hose-accommodating watering nozzles 100 for one original faucet device MT1. In this case, it is preferable that the hose HS1 is plural.

  The original faucet device MT1 is connected to a faucet. The water supplied from the faucet reaches the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 via the original faucet device MT1 and the hose HS1. Water is discharged from the nozzle portion 500 of the hose-containing watering nozzle 100.

  The nozzle unit 500 includes a remote operation unit RC1. The remote control unit RC1 can operate switching between water discharge and water stop in the original faucet device MT1. As shown in FIG. 21 and the like, the remote control unit RC1 includes a first button b1 for instructing water discharge and a second button b2 for instructing water stoppage. The button-type remote control unit RC1 is preferable because it is easy to switch between water discharge and water stop.

  The original faucet device MT1 has a spouting water switching unit. As will be described later, the discharge water switching section water has a solenoid valve. The spouting water switching unit performs switching between water stopping and water spouting by remote operation. In the watering device 900, the water faucet device MT1 can switch between water discharge and water stoppage.

  Preferably, the original faucet device MT1 has a power source. The electric power from this power source is supplied to the discharge water switching unit. Preferably, remote control unit RC1 has a power source. Preferably, hose accommodation type watering nozzle 100 has a power supply for remote control part RC1. More preferably, the nozzle unit 500 has a power source for the remote control unit RC1. An example of the power source is a battery. Examples of the battery include a chemical battery and a physical battery. Examples of the chemical battery include a primary battery and a secondary battery. Examples of the primary battery include a dry battery, a lithium battery, and a button battery. Examples of the secondary battery include a nickel-cadmium battery, a nickel metal hydride battery, and a lithium ion battery. A solar cell is illustrated as a physical battery. Since the watering device is used outdoors, it is suitable for solar power generation. On the other hand, dirt and wetness become a problem outdoors. In this respect, since the solar cell does not require an opening / closing part for battery replacement, it is preferable in that it is easy to obtain a seamless specification (completely waterproof specification).

  The remote control unit RC1 operates the spout water switching unit by remote control. In the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100, the remote control unit RC <b> 1 is built (fixed) in the nozzle unit 500. In this case, fixing of the remote operation unit RC1 is ensured, and the operability of the remote operation unit is improved. Moreover, it becomes easy to improve the waterproof property to remote control part RC1.

  The remote operation by the remote operation unit RC1 may be wired or wireless. In the wired remote operation, for example, an electric wire is used. In this case, the electric wire is provided so as to be connected to the remote control unit and the spouting water switching unit. Other embodiments include mechanical remote operation using, for example, a wire.

  Ultrasonic waves and electromagnetic waves are exemplified as signals for wireless operation. Examples of electromagnetic waves include radio waves and infrared rays.

  Preferably, the remote control unit RC1 operates the spout water switching unit of the original faucet device MT1 wirelessly. Preferably, the spouting water switching unit is operated wirelessly by the remote control unit RC1.

  FIG. 29 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration when a wireless system is employed. The watering device 900 also employs the configuration shown in FIG.

  The remote operation unit RC1 includes a transmission unit 1002 and an instruction unit 1004. On the other hand, the spouting water switching unit 1006 provided in the original faucet device MT1 includes a receiving unit 1008, a control unit 1010, and an on-off valve 1012.

  When the first button b1 of the remote operation unit RC1 is pressed, the transmission unit 1002 transmits a signal (water discharge instruction signal) for setting the water faucet device MT1 to the water discharge state. The main faucet device MT1 that has received this water discharge instruction signal is switched to the water discharge state. This water discharge instruction signal is transmitted by wireless communication. When the second button b2 is pressed, the transmission unit 1002 transmits a signal (water stop instruction signal) for setting the water faucet device MT1 to a water stop state. The main faucet device MT1 that has received this water stop instruction signal is switched to the water stop state. This water stop instruction signal is transmitted by wireless communication. The configuration of the remote control unit RC1 is the same as that of a known wireless remote controller (remote controller).

  The spouting water switching unit 1006 of the original faucet device MT1 includes a receiving unit 1008 that receives a signal from the transmitting unit 1002, an on-off valve 1012, and a control unit 1010 that can control the on-off valve 1012. . The reception unit 1008 receives the water discharge instruction signal and the water stop instruction signal described above from the transmission unit 1002 of the remote operation unit RC1. When the receiving unit 1008 receives the water discharge instruction signal, the control unit 1010 opens the on-off valve 1012. When the receiving unit 1008 receives the water stop instruction signal, the control unit 1010 closes the on-off valve 1012. Thus, the on-off valve 1012 opens and closes according to instructions from the remote control unit RC1.

  In the present embodiment, the on-off valve 1012 is a solenoid valve. A solenoid valve is a kind of electrically driven valve. In this electromagnetic valve, an iron piece called a plunger is moved using the magnetic force of an electromagnet (solenoid) to open and close the valve. Water shut-off is achieved by closing this solenoid valve. Water discharge is achieved by opening this solenoid valve. A known solenoid valve is used.

  As the type of hose HS1, various types of hoses such as a single-layer hose, a multi-layer hose such as a double-layer hose, a threaded hose, a coiled hose, a flexible hose, a folding hose, and a flat hose can be used. An elastic tube such as a bellows tube can also be used as the hose HS1. A telescopic hose may be used.

  The material of the single layer hose is polyvinyl chloride resin, silicone resin, polyethylene resin, rubber or the like. Simple structure and low manufacturing cost. However, the pressure resistance is low and the deformation at high water pressure is large.

  A threaded hose is a hose reinforced with fibers. This threaded hose is small in deformation at high water pressure and has excellent pressure resistance. The coil hose is a hose reinforced by a coil. The material of the coil is resin, metal or the like. This coil hose is small in deformation at high pressure and has excellent pressure resistance.

  The folding hose is a hose that can be folded. This folding hose is flattened when water is not passed through it. A typical folding hose is made of cloth, and the inside of the cloth is coated with a non-water-permeable layer. The folding hose is also known as a fire hose.

  FIGS. 30A to 30D are sectional views showing the folding hose 1100. The material of the folding hose 1100 is cloth, and a non-water-permeable layer is formed on the inner surface of the cloth. Examples of the material for the non-water-permeable layer include rubber and resin. When the water pressure is low, the folding hose 1100 is substantially flat as shown in FIG. When the water pressure is high, the sectional structure of the folding hose 1100 is circular as shown in FIG. Due to the water pressure, the cross-sectional shape of the folding hose 1100 takes a form as shown in FIGS.

  The folding hose 1100 includes a first portion 1102 that forms a half of the hose cross section and a second portion 1104 that forms the remaining half of the hose cross section. At both ends in the width direction of the folding hose 1100, overlapping portions 1106 are provided in which the first portion 1102 and the second portion 1104 are overlapped. Due to these overlapping portions 1106, the folding hose 1100 tends to be flat when not passing water.

  In this way, the folding hose 1100 is configured such that the cross-sectional shape when not passing water is flatter at both ends in the width direction than when passing water (for example, when the water pressure is 0.3 MPa). . In the folding hose 1100 of the present embodiment, the overlapping portion 1106 is employed, but a fold line may be employed instead. A well-known fire hose structure may be employed for the folding hose of the present application.

As described above, the preferred folding hose has the following characteristics. In addition, A1 is an internal cross-sectional area at the time of non-water passage.
(1) When not passing water, the hose can be flattened in a state where the internal cross-sectional area A1 is zero.
(2) It has a flattening promoting portion that promotes flattening at both ends in the width direction. The overlapping portion 1106 and the crease described above are examples of the flattening promoting portion.

  A flat cross-sectional shape can also be adopted in a shape retaining hose that is not a folding hose. A hose that maintains a flat shape even under water pressure is referred to as a flat hose in the present application. The flat cross-sectional shape contributes to the improvement of storage property. FIGS. 31A to 31D are examples of the cross-sectional shape of the shape retaining hose. A hose 1110 in FIG. 31 (a) is a normal circular cross-section hose. 31 (b) to 31 (d) are cross sections of the flat hose. In the flat hose, the height is smaller than the width in the cross-sectional shape with a water pressure of 0.3 MPa. In the hose 1112 in FIG. 31 (b), three water channels are provided. In the hose 1114 of FIG. 31 (c), two water channels are provided. By providing a plurality of water channels, the cross-sectional area of the water channel can be enlarged in a flat cross-sectional shape. In the hose 1116 of FIG. 31 (d), the cross-sectional shape of the water channel is also flat. This is also an example of a configuration that enlarges the cross-sectional area of the water channel in a flat cross-sectional shape.

  The hose HS1 may be a telescopic hose. In the present application, the telescopic hose means a hose whose length in the longitudinal direction extends 1.5 times or more when a water pressure of 0.3 MPa is applied. That is, when the length in the longitudinal direction when not passing water is HL1, and the length in the longitudinal direction in a state where a water pressure of 0.3 MPa is applied is HL2, a hose with HL2 / HL1 of 1.5 or more is obtained. Defined as telescopic hose. HL2 / HL1 is preferably 2 or more, more preferably 2.5 or more, and still more preferably 3 or more. HL2 / HL1 is usually 8 or less, and further 6 or less.

  This stretchable hose has a double tube structure. More specifically, the stretchable hose has an inner tube made of an elastic material, and an outer tube that is less stretchable than the inner tube. The inner tube and the outer tube are fixed to each other only at both ends. Outside the both ends, the inner tube and the outer tube are not fixed to each other. In other words, the inner tube and the outer tube are free from each other at both ends. The tube structure may be triple or more.

  In this stretchable hose, the preferred material for the outer tube is cloth. The material of this cloth is one or more selected from the group consisting of nylon, polyester and polypropylene, for example. Preferably, the fabric is a woven fabric. The material of the inner tube is, for example, natural latex rubber. This stretchable hose automatically extends in the longitudinal direction when water pressure is applied, and automatically contracts in the longitudinal direction when the water pressure disappears.

  The outer tube is supple. The outer tube has a size that allows the inner tube to expand and stretch when in the stretched state. Therefore, the outer tube is in a relaxed state in the contracted state where the water pressure is zero. In the contracted state, the outer tube has a large number of wrinkles. On the other hand, the inner tube has high elasticity. The inner tube contracts in the thickness direction when the water pressure is zero, and extends in the longitudinal direction. When water pressure acts, the inner tube expands in the thickness direction and extends in the longitudinal direction. In particular, the elongation in the longitudinal direction is remarkable. As the water pressure increases, the expansion and elongation increase, but these expansion and elongation are constrained by the size of the outer tube. Therefore, the upper limit of HL2 / HL1 can be regulated by the maximum length of the outer tube. Examples of such stretchable hoses are described in Japanese Patent Nos. 5541825 and 5399595.

  In the watering device 900 capable of stopping water in the original water faucet device, the hose can have a non-pressure resistant specification. For example, the minimum water pressure at which the hose can be broken can be 0.7 MPa or less. By allowing a hose with low pressure resistance, the hose can be made lighter and the flexibility of the hose can be increased.

  A hollow portion is formed inside the hose, and water passes through the hollow portion. The internal cross-sectional area of the hose is the cross-sectional area of this hollow portion. As the water pressure increases, the hose swells and the internal cross-sectional area increases.

  The internal cross-sectional area when not passing water is A1, and the internal cross-sectional area when the water pressure is 0.3 MPa is A2. When the ratio (A2 / A1) is large, the hose is likely to come off at the connecting portion. This is because the connection between the hose and other members is likely to be disconnected due to expansion deformation of the hose. Therefore, when A2 / A1 is likely to expand greatly, the present watering apparatus capable of suppressing the water pressure to the hose is effective from the viewpoint of suppressing the hose disconnection. From these viewpoints, A2 / A1 is preferably 1 or more, more preferably 1.1 or more, more preferably 1.2 or more, and still more preferably 3 or more. Considering the durability of the hose, A2 / A1 is preferably 50 or less, more preferably 40 or less, and still more preferably 30 or less. In measuring the rate of change of the internal cross-sectional area of the hose, the temperature of the hose is set to 20 degrees.

Suppressing the pressure loss at the time of water spray, in order to ensure the watering amount, the internal cross-sectional area A1 of the hose is preferably 19.6 mm ² or more, more preferably 38.5 mm ² or more, 63.6 mm ² or more and more preferably . Improves the maneuverability of the hose, from the viewpoint of downsizing the sprinkler system, the internal cross-sectional area A1 of the hose is preferably 707Mm ² or less, more preferably 491mm ² or less, more preferably 254 mm ² or less, and more is 177 mm ² or less preferable.

  When the length in the longitudinal direction of the hose HS1 at the time of non-water passage is HL1, and the length in the longitudinal direction in a state where a water pressure of 0.3 MPa is applied is HL2, the rate of change in the length of the hose is as described above. HL2 / HL1. When HL2 / HL1 is large, the hose is particularly likely to be disconnected among the above-described disconnection of the connecting portion. This is because the hose and other members are easily disconnected due to the expansion and deformation of the hose. Therefore, when HL2 / HL1 tends to extend greatly, the present watering apparatus capable of suppressing the water pressure to the hose is effective from the viewpoint of suppressing the hose disconnection. From this viewpoint, HL2 / HL1 is preferably 1.0 or more, more preferably 1.1 or more, more preferably 1.5 or more, and still more preferably 2.0 or more. Considering the durability of the hose, HL2 / HL1 is preferably 5.0 or less, and more preferably 4.0 or less. However, the above-described stretchable hose is an exception regarding this upper limit. In the measurement of the length HL1 and the length HL2, the temperature of the hose is set to 20 degrees.

  This watering device that stops water with the original faucet device has a high degree of freedom in selecting the hose. Therefore, the degree of freedom in selecting A2 / A1, HL2 / HL1, bending rigidity, etc. is also high. Based on the above reasons, A2 / A1, HL2 / HL1, bending rigidity, etc. can be set appropriately.

  From the viewpoint of convenience in watering outdoors, the length HL1 of the hose when not passing water is preferably 5 m or more, more preferably 7 m or more, and even more preferably 10 m or more. By stopping the water with the original faucet device, the load on the hose is reduced. Therefore, the freedom degree of selection of a hose increases. For example, a non-pressure-resistant hose can be employed, and a light hose can be employed. The longer the hose, the greater the overall weight of the hose and the more effective the hose weight reduction. Also from this viewpoint, the length HL1 in the longitudinal direction of the hose is preferably 5 m or more. From the viewpoint of downsizing and handling of the watering device, the longitudinal length HL1 of the hose is preferably 100 m or less, more preferably 80 m or less, and even more preferably 50 m or less.

  As described above, the load on the hose is reduced by stopping the water with the water faucet device. Therefore, a non-pressure-resistant hose can be employed and a light hose can be employed. In this respect, the weight of the hose per 1 m in length is preferably 0.2 kg / m or less, more preferably 0.1 kg / m or less, and further preferably 0.05 kg / m or less. In consideration of strength, the hose weight is preferably 0.01 kg / m or more, and more preferably 0.02 kg / m or more. In this weight measurement, the temperature of the hose is 20 degrees. This weight is measured in the absence of water in the hose. The operability is improved by the combination of a miniaturized hose-accommodating watering nozzle and a light hose.

  FIG. 32 shows an example of the usage state of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100. The user Hm holds the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 with only one hand. The hose-containing watering nozzle 100 can be easily grasped with one hand. The hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 can be hung while supporting only the nozzle portion 500. The hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 can take a posture in which the hose accommodating portion 110 (hose reel 110) is positioned below the nozzle portion in the vertical direction in a state where the water discharge center line is horizontal.

  The hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 has a center of gravity G. The center of gravity G is the center of gravity of only the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 and is independent of the weight of the hose HS1. The center of gravity G is measured in the reference state. In addition, when the position of a gravity center changes because the hose accommodation type watering nozzle 100 has a movable part, the said movable part is set so that the position of the said gravity center may be closest to the said water discharge centerline. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, when the hose reel 110 has a handle 114, the center of gravity G is determined in a state where the handle 114 is positioned on the uppermost side.

This hose accommodation type watering nozzle 100 satisfies the following requirement A.
[Requirement A]: In a state where the water discharge center line is horizontal, the hose-accommodating watering nozzle can take a posture (hereinafter also referred to as posture A) in which the center of gravity G is located below the nozzle portion in the vertical direction.

  By satisfying the requirement A, the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 can have the water discharge center line in a horizontal state and the center of gravity G positioned in the vertical direction below the nozzle portion. Therefore, horizontal water discharge is possible in a stable state.

  Note that “below the nozzle portion in the vertical direction” means that it may be below any position of the nozzle portion.

  Further, as is clear from the wording of requirement A, in the posture A, the water discharge center line WC only needs to be horizontal. Therefore, in the posture A, the rotation axis Z1 (see FIG. 2) of the rotating unit may not be horizontal. In the posture A, the rotation axis Z2 of the hose reel may not be horizontal.

  A hose-accommodating watering nozzle that satisfies this requirement A can be stably held with one hand. Further, it is easy to change the water shape by operating the nozzle unit 500 with one hand holding the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100.

  The above-described hose-accommodating watering nozzle 300 also satisfies this requirement A. This hose accommodation type watering nozzle 300 is also excellent in operability with one hand.

Furthermore, the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 satisfies the following requirement B.
[Requirement B]: In the reference posture, the hose-accommodating watering nozzle has a center of gravity G located below the nozzle portion in the vertical direction.

  In the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 that satisfies this requirement B, the stability with one hand can be further improved.

  The aforementioned hose-accommodating watering nozzle 300 also satisfies this requirement B. This hose accommodation type watering nozzle 300 is also excellent in operability with one hand.

The hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 satisfies the following requirement C.
[Requirement C]: In the posture A, the hose accommodating portion 110 is located below the nozzle portion 500.

  With this requirement C, the stability with one hand is maintained even in the state where the hose HS1 is wound around the hose accommodating portion 110. Note that the requirement C is that at least a part of the hose accommodating portion 110 only needs to be positioned below the nozzle portion 500.

Preferably, the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100 satisfies the following requirement D.
[Requirement D]: In the hanging state in which the thread is fixed to an arbitrary point (referred to as point P) on the outer surface of the gripping part 150 and the hose-containing watering nozzle 100 is hung, the water discharge center line is horizontal. There is a point P (referred to as point Px).

  In the hanging state, the point Px is directly above the center of gravity G. In other words, in the hanging state, the vertical line passing through the point Px passes through the center of gravity G.

  When the requirement D is satisfied, the requirement D1, the requirement D2A, the requirement D2B, the requirement D2C, the requirement D3A, the requirement D3B, or the requirement D3C may be satisfied. When there are a plurality of points Px, at least one point Px only needs to satisfy requirement D1, requirement D2A, requirement D2B, requirement D2C, requirement D3A, requirement D3B, or requirement D3C.

[Requirement D1]: A straight line passing through the point Px and the center of gravity G passes (intersects) the nozzle portion.
[Requirement D2A]: A straight line passing through the point Px and the center of gravity G passes (intersects) the cylindrical outer surface of the gripping part 150.
[Requirement D2B]: The distance in the front-rear direction between the point where the straight line passing through the point Px and the center of gravity G intersects the cylindrical outer surface of the gripper 150 and the center point in the front-rear direction length of the cylindrical outer surface of the gripper 150 is K1. When the longitudinal length of the cylindrical outer surface of the gripping part 150 is K2, K1 / K2 is 1/4 or less (see FIG. 4).
[Requirement D2C]: The distance in the front-rear direction between the point where the straight line passing through the point Px and the center of gravity G intersects the cylindrical outer surface of the gripper 150 and the center point in the front-rear direction length of the cylindrical outer surface of the gripper 150 is K1. When the longitudinal length of the cylindrical outer surface of the gripping part 150 is K2, K1 / K2 is 1/8 or less (see FIG. 4).
[Requirement D3A]: A straight line passing through the point Px and the center of gravity G passes (intersects) the virtual cylinder housing 522.
[Requirement D3B]: The distance in the front-rear direction between the point where the straight line passing through the point Px and the center of gravity G intersects the virtual cylinder housing part of the gripping part 150 and the center point in the front-rear direction length of the virtual cylinder housing part is K3. When the length in the front-rear direction of the virtual cylinder housing portion is K4, K3 / K4 is 1/4 or less (see FIG. 4).
[Requirement D3C]: The distance in the front-rear direction between the point where the straight line passing through the point Px and the center of gravity G intersects the virtual cylinder housing part of the gripping part 150 and the center point in the front-rear direction length of the virtual cylinder housing part is K3. When the longitudinal length of the virtual cylindrical housing portion is K4, K3 / K4 is 1/8 or less (see FIG. 4).

  2, 3, and 6, a dotted line indicates the rotation axis Z <b> 2 of the hose reel 110 (drum 112). As shown in FIG. 2, the rotation axis Z2 is not parallel to the water discharge center line WC. The rotation axis Z2 is perpendicular to the water discharge center line WC. The user Hm usually walks with the water discharge center line WC in the traveling direction (see FIG. 32). Since the rotation axis Z2 is perpendicular to the water discharge center line WC, the hose HS1 can be easily pulled out from the hose reel 110 as the user Hm moves. This hose accommodation type watering nozzle 100 is excellent in handling property. The hose-accommodating watering nozzle 300 has similar advantages.

  In the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 200 (FIG. 8 and the like), the rotation axis Z2 is parallel to the water discharge center line WC. In the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 200, the rotation axis Z2 coincides with the water discharge center line WC. With this configuration, a thin form as a whole is realized. With this thin form, the storage property and the carrying property are improved. This hose accommodation type watering nozzle 200 has a small total width W1 and a total height W3. In the configuration of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 200, for example, the full width W1 can be set to 100 mm or less. In the configuration of the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 200, for example, the overall height W3 can be 130 mm or less.

  In the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 100, the rotation axis Z1 described above is parallel to the rotation axis Z2. For this reason, the hose HS1 can be easily pulled out and the rotating portion can be easily operated. This also applies to the hose-accommodating watering nozzle 300.

  In the watering nozzles 100, 200, and 300 described above, the nozzle portion can be attached to and detached from the connecting portion. For this reason, a nozzle part and a hose can also be directly connected and used. For example, after pulling out all of the hose from the hose reel, the hose end can be removed from the hose reel, and the hose end can be directly connected to the nozzle portion. In this directly connected state, since the hose reel (hose accommodating part) is removed, the nozzle part 500 can be used as a watering nozzle in a lighter and more compact state.

  In the present application, other inventions different from the invention according to the independent claims are also described. Respective forms, members, configurations, and combinations thereof described in the claims and embodiments of the present application are recognized as inventions based on the respective functions and effects.

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

  The watering device described above can be used for all purposes such as horticulture, cleaning, and car washing.

100, 200, 300 ... hose-accommodating watering nozzle 110, 210, 310 ... hose reel (hose accommodating portion)
130, 330 ... Connection part 150, 250, 350 ... Hose-accommodating watering nozzle gripping part 500 ... Nozzle part 502 ... Discharge part 504 ... Nozzle part gripping part 506 ... Rotation Reference numeral 510 ... Water discharge screen 520 ... Cylindrical outer surface 530 ... Operation part WC ... Water discharge center line RC1 ... Remote operation part 900 ... Watering device G ... Center of gravity of hose-containing watering nozzle MT1 ... Former faucet device

Claims (7)

A nozzle part capable of changing the water shape, a hose accommodating part, a connecting part extending from the nozzle part to the hose accommodating part, and a gripping part,
The hose accommodation type watering nozzle in which the nozzle part constitutes at least a part of the grasping part. Has a center of gravity,
The hose-accommodating watering nozzle according to claim 1, wherein the center of gravity is positioned below the nozzle portion in the vertical direction in a state where the water discharge center line is horizontal.   The hose accommodation type watering nozzle according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the hose accommodation portion is a hose reel.   The hose-accommodating watering nozzle according to claim 3, wherein the hose reel is supported by a cantilever structure. The hose reel has a drum;
The drum has a shaft portion and a disk portion,
The hose-accommodating watering nozzle according to claim 3, further comprising a drum support portion that supports the disk portion in a state where the drum can rotate.   The hose-accommodating watering nozzle according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the nozzle part is detachable from the connection part. The hose-accommodating watering nozzle according to any one of claims 1 to 6, a water faucet device, and a hose connecting the hose-accommodating watering nozzle and the water faucet device,
The former faucet device has a spout water switching unit,
The hose-containing watering nozzle has a nozzle part that can change the water shape,
The watering device in which the nozzle unit has a remote control unit that switches between water discharge and water stop in the water discharge switching unit.

Images