Abstract: One object is to generate, without the need for a motive power source and a high level of machining accuracy, micro-bubbles containing a large amount of fine air bubbles. Another object is to provide a micro-bubble generator that switches between micro-bubble water, which contains micro-bubbles, and foamed water containing a large amount of air and having a tender texture. The micro-bubble generator includes: a water passage that includes a smaller diameter portion and a larger diameter portion disposed on the downstream side of the smaller diameter portion; an air inlet disposed in the larger diameter portion and an elastic body disposed in the air inlet and configured to isolate the water passage from external air. The elastic body is compressible by negative pressure generated in the water passage, causing the external air to be sucked into the water passage through the air inlet and over the compressed elastic body.

Abstract: A foamed water discharging device includes a water feeding hole, a water discharging hole, a water passage, a ventilation passage, and a foamed water generator. The water passage has a cylindrical inner circumferential surface extending from the water feeding hole to the water discharging hole. The ventilation passage takes in external air on the upstream side of the water passage. The foamed water generator causes water containing the external air to undergo a collision on the downstream side of the water passage so as to convert the water into foamed water. The foamed water generator includes flow dividing ribs along the inner circumferential surface of the water passage, which protrude radially toward the center of the water passage. On a top portion of each flow dividing rib, at least a pair of inclined surfaces are formed to divide, rightward and leftward, water inflowing from a water guiding passage through the water feeding hole.

Abstract: A foamed water discharging device includes a water feeding hole, a water discharging hole, a water passage, a ventilation passage, and a foamed water generator. The water passage has a cylindrical inner circumferential surface extending from the water feeding hole to the water discharging hole. The ventilation passage takes in external air on the upstream side of the water passage. The foamed water generator causes water containing the external air to undergo a collision on the downstream side of the water passage so as to convert the water into foamed water. The foamed water generator includes flow dividing ribs along the inner circumferential surface of the water passage, which protrude radially toward the center of the water passage. On a top portion of each flow dividing rib, at least a pair of inclined surfaces are formed to divide, rightward and leftward, water inflowing from a water guiding passage through the water feeding hole.