JP7108232B2 - Toilet equipment and toilet seat equipment - Google Patents

Description

Aspects of the present invention relate generally to toilet apparatus and toilet seat apparatus.

In the toilet device described in Patent Document 1, before using the toilet device (for example, when the human body detection sensor detects a human body) and after using the toilet device (for example, when the human body detection sensor stops detecting the user), automatic mist of hypochlorous acid water or tap water is sprayed on the bowl of the toilet bowl. As a result, a water film is formed on the bowl to suppress the adhesion and sticking of waste to the bowl surface, and the sterilization action of hypochlorous acid water suppresses the generation of bacteria and dirt due to waste. can do.

Japanese Patent No. 5029930

The inner surface of the bowl of the toilet bowl has a cleaning area through which cleaning water for discharging wastes in the bowl passes to the outside, and a non-cleaning area located above the cleaning area and through which the cleaning water does not pass. Dirt may adhere to such non-cleaned areas as well. For example, dirt splashed in the wash area may adhere to the non-wash area. Therefore, in order to suppress stains occurring in a wide range of the toilet bowl including not only the washing area but also the non-washing area, it is preferable to let the mist land not only on the washing area but also on the non-washing area. However, in the toilet device of Patent Document 1, the amount of mist that lands on the non-washing area is small, and there is room for improvement from the viewpoint of suppressing the generation of bacteria and dirt in the non-washing area. On the other hand, by automatically spraying a mist of tap water or sterilizing water over a wide area, including non-washed areas, it suppresses the generation of bacteria and stains due to waste (excretion of the user, etc.) over a wide area. can do. Thereby, for example, the frequency of cleaning by the user can be reduced.

On the other hand, tap water sometimes contains scale components such as sodium, calcium, potassium and magnesium. In this case, tap water mist and sterilized water mist generated from tap water also contain scale components. Therefore, if tap water or a mist of sterilized water generated from tap water is used, the mist may evaporate after it lands on the toilet apparatus, causing scale (for example, calcium carbonate) to precipitate.

The scale components of the mist adhering to the cleaning area of the toilet bowl are washed away by flushing water that is poured into the toilet bowl to discharge the dirt in the toilet bowl. However, the mist scale components adhering to the non-washing area of the toilet bowl are not washed away by the flush water flowing inside the toilet bowl. Therefore, when mist of tap water or sterilized water is sprayed on the non-washed area, scale gradually grows in the non-washed area, and visible scale stains may occur in a short period of time.

Such limescale stains caused by scale components of tap water can be removed by wiping off. However, if water scale stains occur in a short period of time, it is possible to wipe off the water scale stains when spraying a mist of disinfectant water automatically over a wide area including non-cleaned areas for the purpose of reducing the frequency of cleaning. Therefore, there arises a problem that the frequency of cleaning cannot be reduced.

The present invention has been made based on the recognition of such problems, and suppresses the generation of bacteria and stains in a wide range of the toilet bowl including the non-washing area, while enabling visual inspection in the non-washing area in a short period of time. To provide a toilet device and a toilet seat device capable of suppressing the occurrence of scale stains.

A first invention comprises a bowl portion for receiving dirt, a rim upper surface positioned above the bowl portion, and a spout for discharging washing water into the bowl portion for discharging the dirt from the bowl portion. the bowl portion includes a toilet bowl having a washing area through which the washing water passes and a non-washing area located above the washing area and below the top surface of the rim; A seating portion installed for a user to sit on, a sterilization device that generates sterilization water having sterilization components from tap water, a spray device that sprays mist of the tap water or the sterilization water, and the user and a control device for controlling the sterilization device and the spraying device based on the detection information of the detection sensor, wherein the control device is such that the detection sensor detects the user When the user is detected from a non-cleaning state, the spraying device is automatically controlled so that the mist of the tap water or the sterilized water does not land on the non-washing area. , a pre-mist mode in which mist of the tap water or the sterilizing water is sprayed on the washing area, and a state in which the detection sensor detects the user to a state in which the user is not detected. and an after-mist mode in which the mist of the sterilizing water is sprayed onto the non-washing area by automatically controlling the spray device.

According to this toilet apparatus, the mist sprayed from the spray device in the pre-mist mode lands on the cleaning area to which dirt is likely to adhere directly, forming a water film on the cleaning area. As a result, it is possible to prevent dirt from adhering or sticking to the cleaning area of the toilet bowl. Further, in the after-mist mode, a mist of sterilized water sprayed from the spray device lands on the non-cleaning area. As a result, it is possible to suppress the generation of germs and stains due to dirt that is not washed away by the washing water.
Furthermore, since the mist does not land on the non-cleaning area in the pre-mist mode, the mist containing scale components does not reach the non-cleaning area compared to the case where the mist lands on the non-cleaning area in both the pre-mist mode and the after-mist mode. The amount of adhesion can be reduced. As a result, it is possible to lengthen the period until the scale deposited by evaporation of the adhered mist grows into a visible limescale stain. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the generation of visible scale stains in a short period of time while suppressing the generation of bacteria and stains in the non-washed area.
In the non-cleaning area, dropped and splashed contaminants may adhere, but the contaminants are less likely to adhere directly to the non-cleaning area than in the cleaning area. Therefore, in the pre-mist mode, even if tap water or sterilized water does not land on the non-washing area and a water film is not formed on the non-washing area, it is unlikely that contaminants will firmly adhere to the non-washing area. Therefore, in the after-mist mode, by causing the sterilizing water to land on the non-washing area, it is possible to suppress the generation of bacteria and stains on the non-washing area.

In a second aspect based on the first aspect, the after-mist mode includes a first step of causing the sterilized water mist to land on the non-cleaning area to form water droplets or a water film, and the first step. and a second step of causing the mist of the sterilizing water to land on the water droplets or the water film formed in the above, and washing away the water droplets or the water film by increasing the volume of the water droplets or the water film. A toilet device characterized by

According to this toilet apparatus, droplets or a film of sterile water are formed in the non-washing area in the first step. As a result, the sterilizing water can act on the dirt adhering to the non-cleaning area, and the generation of bacteria and stains due to the dirt can be suppressed. In addition, the second step can wash away dirt adhering to the non-cleaning area together with the water droplets or water film of the sterilizing water.
If the water droplets or the water film remain attached to the non-cleaned area, the water droplets or the water film evaporates to deposit scale, which may lead to limescale stains on the non-cleaned area. In contrast, by washing away the water droplets or the water film in the second step, it is possible to suppress the water droplets or the water film from remaining in the non-cleaning area. Thereby, generation|occurrence|production of scale dirt can be suppressed.

A third aspect of the invention comprises a bowl portion for receiving dirt, a rim upper surface positioned above the bowl portion, and a spout for discharging wash water into the bowl portion for discharging the dirt from the bowl portion. and the bowl portion has a washing area through which the washing water passes, and a non-washing area located above the washing area and below the upper surface of the rim. A seating portion on which a user sits, a sterilization device that generates sterilization water having a sterilization component from tap water, a spray device that sprays mist of the tap water or the sterilization water, and a detection sensor that detects a user; and a control device that controls the sterilization device and the spray device based on detection information from the detection sensor, wherein the control device controls the detection sensor when the detection sensor detects the user. automatically controlling the spray device so that the mist of the tap water or the sterilized water reaches the non-washing area A pre-mist mode in which mist of the tap water or the sterilizing water is sprayed on the washing area so as not to water, and a state in which the detection sensor detects the user and does not detect the user. and an after-mist mode in which the spray device is automatically controlled to spray a mist of the sterilized water onto the non-washing area when the toilet seat becomes empty.

According to this toilet seat device, the mist sprayed from the spraying device in the pre-mist mode lands on the washing area to which dirt is likely to adhere directly, forming a water film on the washing area. As a result, it is possible to prevent dirt from adhering or sticking to the cleaning area of the toilet bowl. Further, in the after-mist mode, a mist of sterilized water sprayed from the spray device lands on the non-cleaning area. As a result, it is possible to suppress the generation of germs and stains due to dirt that is not washed away by the washing water.
Furthermore, since the mist does not land on the non-cleaning area in the pre-mist mode, the mist containing scale components does not reach the non-cleaning area compared to the case where the mist lands on the non-cleaning area in both the pre-mist mode and the after-mist mode. The amount of adhesion can be reduced. As a result, it is possible to lengthen the period until the scale deposited by evaporation of the adhered mist grows into a visible limescale stain. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the generation of visible scale stains in a short period of time while suppressing the generation of bacteria and stains in the non-washed area.
In the non-cleaning area, dropped and splashed contaminants may adhere, but the contaminants are less likely to adhere directly to the non-cleaning area than in the cleaning area. Therefore, in the pre-mist mode, even if tap water or sterilized water does not land on the non-washing area and a water film is not formed on the non-washing area, it is unlikely that contaminants will firmly adhere to the non-washing area. Therefore, in the after-mist mode, by causing the sterilizing water to land on the non-washing area, it is possible to suppress the generation of bacteria and stains on the non-washing area.

In a fourth aspect based on the third aspect, the after-mist mode includes a first step of causing the sterilized water mist to land on the non-cleaning area to form water droplets or a water film; and the first step. and a second step of causing the mist of the sterilizing water to land on the water droplets or the water film formed in the above, and washing away the water droplets or the water film by increasing the volume of the water droplets or the water film. A toilet seat device characterized by

According to this toilet seat device, droplets or a water film of sterilized water are formed in the non-washing area in the first step. As a result, the sterilizing water can act on the dirt adhering to the non-cleaning area, and the generation of bacteria and stains due to the dirt can be suppressed. In addition, the second step can wash away dirt adhering to the non-cleaning area together with the water droplets or water film of the sterilizing water.
If the water droplets or the water film remain attached to the non-cleaned area, the water droplets or the water film evaporates to deposit scale, which may lead to limescale stains on the non-cleaned area. In contrast, by washing away the water droplets or the water film in the second step, it is possible to suppress the water droplets or the water film from remaining in the non-cleaning area. Thereby, generation|occurrence|production of scale dirt can be suppressed.

According to the aspect of the present invention, it is possible to suppress the generation of visible scale stains in a short period of time in the non-washing area while suppressing the generation of bacteria and stains in a wide range of the toilet bowl including the non-washing area. A toilet apparatus and a toilet seat apparatus are provided.

1 is a perspective view illustrating a toilet device according to an embodiment; FIG. It is a cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the toilet apparatus according to the embodiment. 3(a) and 3(b) are schematic diagrams illustrating a part of the toilet apparatus according to the embodiment. It is a block diagram which illustrates the principal part structure of the toilet seat apparatus which concerns on embodiment. 5(a) to 5(e) are a plan view and a perspective view illustrating the toilet device according to the embodiment. 6(a) to 6(c) are schematic diagrams illustrating the spray device according to the embodiment. It is a sectional view which illustrates a part of toilet device concerning a modification of an embodiment. 8(a) to 8(c) are perspective views illustrating another toilet device according to the embodiment. 4 is a flow chart illustrating the operation of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment; 10(a) and 10(b) are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which illustrates the mist which the spraying apparatus which concerns on embodiment sprays. 12(a) and 12(b) are cross-sectional views illustrating the operation in the pre-mist mode and the after-mist mode of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment. 13(a) and 13(b) are cross-sectional views illustrating the operation in the after-mist mode of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment in an after-mist mode; 4 is a flow chart illustrating another operation in the after-mist mode of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment; 4 is a flow chart illustrating another operation in the after-mist mode of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment; 17(a) and 17(b) are plan views illustrating the toilet bowl and toilet seat according to the embodiment. 18(a) and 18(b) are cross-sectional views illustrating the operation of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment in the after-mist mode or the manual mist mode. 19(a) and 19(b) are cross-sectional views illustrating the operation of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment in the second step of the after-mist mode or the manual mist mode. It is a top view which illustrates the toilet apparatus which concerns on embodiment. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the operation of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment in an after-mist mode or a manual mist mode; 22(a) and 22(b) are perspective views illustrating the operation of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment in the after-mist mode or the manual mist mode. 4 is a flow chart illustrating the operation of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment in a manual mist mode. 4 is a flow chart illustrating another operation in the manual mist mode of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment; 25(a) and 25(b) are perspective views illustrating a method for measuring particle size according to the embodiment. It is a block diagram which illustrates the principal part structure of the toilet apparatus based on the modified example of embodiment.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, in each drawing, the same reference numerals are given to the same constituent elements, and detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.
1 is a perspective view illustrating a toilet apparatus according to an embodiment; FIG.
The toilet apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 1 includes a western-style seated toilet bowl (hereinafter simply referred to as a “toilet bowl” for convenience of explanation) 800 and a toilet seat apparatus 100 . Toilet bowl 800 has a concave bowl portion 801 that receives waste. The toilet seat device 100 is installed on top of the toilet bowl 800 .

The toilet seat device 100 has a casing 400 (body portion), a seating portion 200 (toilet seat) on which a user sits, and a toilet lid 300 . The seat portion 200 and the toilet lid 300 are pivotally supported with respect to the casing 400 so as to be freely openable and closable. The state of FIG. 1 is a state in which the seat 200 is closed (lowered state) and the toilet lid 300 is open (raised state). The toilet lid 300 covers the seating surface of the seating section 200 from above in the closed state.

Inside the casing 400, there is built-in a body washing function unit and the like for realizing washing of the human body parts (such as the “buttocks”) of the user sitting on the seat part 200. As shown in FIG. Further, for example, the casing 400 is provided with a seating detection sensor 404 that detects that the user has sat on the seating portion 200 . When the seating detection sensor 404 detects the user sitting on the seating section 200, the user operates the manual operation section 500 such as a remote control, for example, the cleaning nozzle (hereinafter simply referred to as "nozzle" for convenience of explanation). ) 473 into the bowl portion 801 of the toilet bowl 800 . Note that the toilet seat device 100 shown in FIG. 1 shows a state in which the nozzle 473 has advanced into the bowl portion 801 .

One or more water outlets 474 are provided at the tip of the nozzle 473 . The nozzle 473 can jet water from a spout 474 provided at the tip of the nozzle 473 to wash the “bottom” of the user sitting on the seat 200 .
In the specification of the present application, "upper", "lower", "forward", "backward", "leftward" and "rightward" respectively refer to seat 200 with the back facing open toilet lid 300. This is the direction viewed from the seated user.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating part of the toilet apparatus according to the embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 2, the upper portion of bowl portion 801 forms rim portion 805 . Rim portion 805 is an annular portion that forms the upper edge of toilet bowl 800 . A pooled water 801 w is stored in the bowl portion 801 .

The toilet bowl 800 also has an upper rim surface 806 that overlies the bowl portion 801 . A rim upper surface 806 is the upper surface of the rim portion 805 and faces, for example, the back surface 204 of the closed seat 200 .

3(a) and 3(b) are schematic diagrams illustrating a part of the toilet apparatus according to the embodiment.
3(a) is a perspective view illustrating the toilet 800, and FIG. 3(b) is a plan view illustrating the toilet 800. FIG. The toilet bowl 800 has a spout 811 provided in the rim portion 805 . The water spout 811 spouts washing water into the bowl portion 801 for discharging dirt (for example, excrement of the user) from inside the bowl portion 801 .

For example, when the user operates a toilet bowl cleaning operation using a switch provided on a remote control or the like, or when the user stands up from the seating portion 200, the toilet bowl cleaning device supplies cleansing water from the spout 811 into the bowl portion 801. is executed. As a result, contaminants in the bowl portion 801 are discharged, and the surface of the bowl portion 801 is cleaned.

As indicated by an arrow A5 in FIG. 3A, the water discharge port 811 discharges cleansing water backward. The wash water discharged from the water discharge port 811 flows over the shelf-shaped portion 805B provided along the rim portion 805, and as shown in FIG. Form.

The bowl portion 801 has a wash area 801A through which wash water passes and a non-wash area 801B located above the wash area 801A and below the rim top surface 806. As shown in FIG. The cleaning region 801A is a region of the inner surface of the bowl portion 801 through which the cleaning water passes and gets wet. The non-cleaning region 801B is a region of the inner surface of the bowl portion 801 through which the cleansing water does not pass. As shown in FIG. 3(b), when viewed from above, the non-cleaning area 801B is generally annular along the rim portion 805, and the cleaning area 801A is located inside thereof.

For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the cleaning area 801A is the area below the ledge 805B, and the non-cleaning area 801B is the elevation of the rim 805 (the inner wall surface of the rim) located above the ledge 805B. )including.

In the embodiment, the washing water does not have to form the swirling flow SF. For example, the water spout 811 may spout cleansing water downward from the rim portion 805 . Even in such a case, the bowl portion 801 has a washing area through which the washing water passes and a non-washing area located between the rim upper surface and the washing area through which the washing water does not pass.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the essential configuration of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment.
Note that FIG. 4 also shows the configuration of main parts of the waterway system and the electrical system.
The toilet seat device 100 has a solenoid valve 431, a sterilization device 450, a switching valve 472, a spray device 481, a nozzle motor 476, a nozzle 473, a nozzle washing chamber 478, flow paths 110-113, and the like. These are arranged in a casing 400, for example. Note that these may be incorporated inside the toilet bowl 800 as shown in FIG. 26 .

The channel 110 is a channel for guiding water supplied from a water supply source (not shown) such as a tap or a water storage tank to the spray device 481, the nozzle 473, and the like. A solenoid valve 431 is provided upstream of the flow path 110 . The electromagnetic valve 431 is an electromagnetic valve that can be opened and closed, and controls water supply based on commands from the control device 405 provided inside the casing 400 .

A sterilization device 450 that generates sterilized water is provided downstream of the solenoid valve 431 on the flow path 110 . The sterilization device 450 generates sterilized water containing, for example, hypochlorous acid. An example of the sterilization device 450 is an electrolytic cell unit. The electrolytic cell unit electrolyzes tap water flowing through a space (flow path) between an anode plate (not shown) and a cathode plate (not shown) under control of energization from the control device 405 . Note that the sterilized water is not limited to one containing hypochlorous acid. For example, the sterilized water may be a solution containing metal ions such as silver ions or copper ions, a solution containing electrolytic chlorine or ozone, acidic water, or alkaline water. The sterilization device 450 is not limited to an electrolytic cell, and may have any configuration that can generate sterilized water.

A switching valve 472 is provided downstream of the sterilization device 450 on the flow path 110 . A nozzle 473 , a nozzle cleaning chamber 478 and a spray device 481 are provided downstream of the switching valve 472 . The flow path 110 is branched by a switching valve 472 into a flow path 111 that guides water to the nozzle 473 , a flow path 112 that guides water to the nozzle cleaning chamber 478 , and a flow path 113 that guides water to the spray device 481 . Switching valve 472 controls opening and closing of flow path 111 , flow path 112 and flow path 113 based on a command from control device 405 . That is, the switching valve 472 controls water supply to the nozzle 473 , the nozzle cleaning chamber 478 and the spray device 481 . Also, the switching valve 472 switches the flow rate of water supplied downstream thereof.

The nozzle 473 receives a driving force from the nozzle motor 476 and advances or retreats into the bowl portion 801 of the toilet bowl 800 . That is, the nozzle motor 476 advances and retreats the nozzle 473 based on commands from the control device 405 . The nozzle 473 is housed inside the casing 400 when not in use. The nozzle 473 is extended forward from the casing 400 and discharges water from the water discharge port 474 to wash the human body parts.

The nozzle cleaning chamber 478 cleans the outer peripheral surface (body) of the nozzle 473 by spraying sterilized water or tap water from a spout provided therein.

The spray device 481 turns tap water or sterilized water generated by the sterilizer 450 into a mist. The spray device 481 sprays the mist M (sterilized water mist or tap water mist) onto the bowl portion 801, the rim portion 805, the seating portion 200, and the like. In other words, the spray device 481 causes the sterile water mist or tap water mist to land on the bowl portion 801, the rim portion 805, the seating portion 200, and the like. In the specification of the present application, "landing on water" means that water (disinfected water or tap water) adheres to the surface of an object. In particular, the term “direct water landing” means that water (microparticles p of sterilized water or tap water) reaches the surface of an object from the air.

Inside the casing 400, a toilet seat motor 511 (rotating device), a toilet lid motor 512 (rotating device), an air blower 513, and a hot air heater 514 are provided.
The toilet seat motor 511 electrically rotates the seat portion 200 to open and close based on a command from the control device 405 . The toilet lid motor 512 electrically rotates and opens and closes the toilet lid 300 based on a command from the control device 405 .

The blower device 513 is, for example, a fan provided inside the casing 400 . Air blower 513 operates based on a command from control device 405 . For example, the blades rotate as the motor of the blower 513 rotates. Thereby, the air blower 513 can blow air toward the inside of the toilet 800 (for example, the inside of the bowl portion 801). In addition, the air blower 513 may blow air to the private parts of the user sitting on the seat 200 . Warm air heater 514 warms the air sent to the outside of casing 400 by air blower 513 . As a result, warm air can be sent toward the user's private parts to dry the private parts.

The toilet seat heater 515 (drying device) is provided inside the seating section 200, for example. The toilet seat heater 515 has, for example, an annular metal member provided along the periphery of an opening 200a (FIG. 1) formed in the center of the seating portion 200. As shown in FIG. When the toilet seat heater 515 is energized based on a command from the control device 405 , the toilet seat heater 515 warms the seating section 200 . As the toilet seat heater 515, for example, a tubing heater, a sheathed heater, a halogen heater, a carbon heater, or the like may be used. The metal member is made of, for example, aluminum or copper. Moreover, various shapes such as a sheet shape, a wire shape, and a mesh shape can be adopted as the shape of the metal member.

A circuit to which power is supplied from a power supply circuit (not shown) is used for the control device 405 . For example, controller 405 includes an integrated circuit such as a microcomputer. The control device 405 operates the electromagnetic valve 431, the sterilization device 450, It controls the switching valve 472, the nozzle motor 476, the spray device 481, the blower device 513, the hot air heater 514, the toilet seat heater 515, the toilet seat motor 511, and the toilet lid motor 512.

The manual operation unit 500 is an operation unit for the user to spray sterilized water at arbitrary timing, for example. For example, the manual operation unit 500 is a remote controller having switches or buttons. When the user operates the manual operation unit 500, operation information (signal) instructing spraying of the disinfectant water is sent to the control device 405. The control device 405 controls the sterilization device 450 and the spray device 481 based on the operation information. Thereby, the user can spray the sterilized water by operating the manual operation unit 500 .
In addition, the manual operation unit 500 may have switches, buttons, and the like for the user to operate each function of the toilet seat device 100 in addition to spraying the sterilized water. When an operation corresponding to each function is performed, the operation information is sent to the control device 405, and the control device 405 controls the operation of each part of the toilet seat device 100 based on the operation information.

The seating detection sensor 404 can detect the seating state of the user on the seating section 200 (whether or not the user is seated). A seating detection sensor 404 detects seating and leaving of the user. The seating detection sensor 404 can be a microwave sensor, a ranging sensor (infrared projection sensor), an ultrasonic sensor, a tact switch, a capacitance switch (touch sensor), or a strain sensor. In this example, the seating detection sensor 404 uses a distance sensor provided in the casing 400 .

When contact sensors such as a tact switch, an electrostatic sensor, and a strain sensor are used, these contact sensors are provided on the seating portion 200 . When the user sits on the seat portion 200, the tact switch is pressed by the user's weight. Alternatively, the user touches the electrostatic sensor. Alternatively, pressure is applied to the strain sensor by the weight of the user. The seating of the user can be detected by electrical signals from these sensors.

Human body detection sensor 403 can detect a user in front of toilet bowl 800 , that is, a user in a position spaced forward from seating section 200 . In other words, the human body detection sensor 403 can detect a user who has entered the restroom and approaches the seating section 200 . As such a human body detection sensor, for example, a pyroelectric sensor, a microwave sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or a ranging sensor (infrared projection type sensor) can be used. In this example, the human body detection sensor 403 is a pyroelectric sensor provided in the casing. In addition, the human body detection sensor 403 detects a user who has just opened the door of the toilet room and entered the room, or a user who has just entered the toilet room, that is, a user who is about to enter the toilet room and is present in front of the door. You may For example, when a microwave sensor is used, it is possible to detect the presence of the user through the door of the toilet room.

The control device 405 receives detection information from the human body detection sensor 403 (signal indicating whether or not the user is present) and detection information from the seating detection sensor 404 (signal indicating whether or not the user is seated). Based on the information, the operation of each part of the toilet seat device 100 is controlled.

The control device 405 can perform three types of mist modes: an after-mist mode, a pre-mist mode, and a manual mist mode.
The after-mist mode is, for example, an operation mode in which a mist of sterile water is automatically sprayed based on the detection information of the detection sensor 402 after the user uses the toilet device 10 . The pre-mist mode is, for example, an operation mode in which a mist of sterilized water or tap water is automatically sprayed based on the detection information of the detection sensor 402 before the user uses the toilet device 10 . The manual mist mode is an operation mode in which mist of sterilized water is sprayed based on the operation information of the manual operation unit 500 .

5(a) to 5(e) are a plan view and a perspective view illustrating the toilet device according to the embodiment.
FIG. 5(a) shows a part of the toilet device 10 viewed from the front.
FIG.5(b) expands and represents a part of Fig.5 (a). In addition, in FIG.5(b), a part of casing 400 located in front of the spraying apparatus 481 is abbreviate|omitted for visibility.
The spray device 481 , the nozzle damper 479 , and the blower damper 516 are positioned on the upper rear side of the bowl portion 801 when the toilet seat device 100 is installed on the toilet bowl 800 .

The nozzle damper 479 is rotatably supported with respect to the casing 400 . The nozzle 473 is positioned behind the nozzle damper 479 in a state of being retracted inside the casing 400 . During washing of a human body part, the nozzle 473 comes into contact with the nozzle damper 479 , rotates the nozzle damper 479 to open, and advances from the inside of the casing 400 .

5(c) to 5(e) are enlarged perspective views showing the periphery of the nozzle damper 479 and the blower damper 516. FIG.
Blow damper 516 is rotatably supported with respect to casing 400 . A blower 513 is arranged behind the blower damper 516 . Blow damper 516 covers opening 516 a of casing 400 . The air sent from the blower 513 is sent into the toilet bowl 800 through the opening 516a.

FIG. 5(c) shows a state in which the blower 513 has stopped operating, and FIGS. 5(d) and 5(e) show the blower 513 operating and blowing air into the bowl portion 801. Indicates status.
As shown in FIG. 5(c), the air blow damper 516 is closed when the air blow is stopped.
As shown in FIG. 5D, when the blower 513 operates, the blower damper 516 is rotated and opened by the pressure of air (wind pressure) sent from the blower 513 . As a result, the air blower 513 blows air from the rear upper portion in the bowl portion 801 toward the front lower portion in the bowl portion 801, as indicated by arrow A1, for example.
In the state of FIG. 5(e), compared to the state of FIG. 5(d), the amount of air blown by the blower 513 is large (or the wind speed is high). In this case, the blower damper 516 is further rotated and opened compared to the state of FIG. 5(d). As a result, the air blower 513 blows air from the upper rear portion of the bowl portion 801 toward the upper front portion of the bowl portion 801 as indicated by an arrow A2, for example.

Thus, the direction of the air blown from the air blower 513 is changed by the air blow damper 516 . In other words, the air blower 513 can control the blowing direction by the air volume (air velocity). By placing the mist sprayed from the spray device 481 on the airflow generated by the air blow from the air blower 513, the range where the mist lands and the amount of water droplets in each range (sterilized water that lands in each range Or the amount of tap water) may be controlled.

6(a) to 6(c) are schematic diagrams illustrating the spray device according to the embodiment.
6(a) is a perspective view of the spray device 481, and FIG. 6(b) is a side view of the spray device 481. FIG.
The spray device 481 has a motor 481a and a disc 481b connected below the motor 481a. Rotation of the motor 481 a is controlled by the control device 405 . When the motor 481a rotates, the rotational driving force is transmitted to the disk 481b, and the disk 481b rotates.

As shown in FIG. 6B, water W (tap water or sterilized water generated by the sterilizer 450) is supplied to the upper surface of the disk 481b. By supplying the water W while the disk 481b is rotating, the spray device 481 sprays the water W in the form of mist.

FIG. 6(c) is an enlarged view of a portion of the disc 481b viewed from above. The water W dropped on the upper surface of the rotating disk 481b spreads out like a film on the disk 481b due to centrifugal force and is emitted from the disk 481b. At this time, the water W splits from the vicinity of the edge of the disk 481b while remaining in the form of a film, or splits after becoming filamentous, and then becomes fine particles p (mist). The particle size of the mist (the diameter of the fine particles p) can be controlled by the rotation speed of the disk 481b, that is, the rotation speed of the motor 481a. The higher the rotation speed, the smaller the particle size of the mist. For example, low-speed rotation with a rotation speed of about 1000 (rotation per minute: rpm), medium-speed rotation with a rotation speed of about 10000 rpm, or high-speed rotation with a rotation speed of about 20000 rpm is used as appropriate to obtain the desired particle size. . Further, by adjusting the flow rate of the water W supplied to the spray device 481 from the water supply port 481c, the particle size of the mist can be controlled.

In the specification of the present application, the particle size is the particle size of the fine particles p existing in the air before landing on the toilet device 10, for example, the Sauter mean particle size (total volume/total surface area). The method of measuring "particle size" in this specification will be described later with reference to FIG. Moreover, mist refers to particles having a particle size in the range of 10 micrometers (μm) to 300 μm. If the particle size of the mist is less than 10 μm, it will take a long time to wet the target portions such as the bowl portion 801, the rim portion 805, and the seating portion 200. FIG. In the case of using sterilized water containing hypochlorous acid, if the particle size of the mist is less than 10 μm, the concentration of hypochlorous acid in the mist tends to be attenuated, and the sterilization performance tends to decrease. On the other hand, if the particle size of the mist is larger than 300 μm, it is difficult to diffuse the mist, making it difficult to spray the mist over a wide area. In the following description, large particle size mist is mist having a particle size of 100 μm or more and 300 μm or less, preferably 150 μm or more and 300 μm or less, and medium particle size mist is mist having a particle size of 50 μm or more and 200 μm or less. In the following, mist having a particle size of preferably 60 μm or more and 150 μm or less, and small particle size mist means mist having a particle size of 10 μm or more and 100 μm or less, preferably 10 μm or more and 60 μm or less.

For example, the particle size, flow rate, direction, etc. of the mist sprayed from the spray device 481 into the toilet 800 are adjusted by the position and number of the water supply ports 481c and the rotation direction (clockwise or counterclockwise) of the disk 481b. It is also possible to Thereby, the range where the mist sprayed from the spray device 481 lands and the amount of mist lands in each range may be controlled. Also, a cover or the like for controlling the direction in which the mist is sprayed may be appropriately provided around the disk 481b.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating part of a toilet apparatus according to a modification of the embodiment;
FIG. 7 shows a cross section taken along the line AA' shown in FIG. 5(a).
As shown in FIG. 7, the casing 400 is provided with slits S. As shown in FIG. In this example, the spray device 481 is arranged inside the casing 400 , and the slit S is positioned at the lower front portion of the spray device 481 . For example, the height of the upper surface S1 of the slit S (position in the vertical direction) is the same as the height of the bottom surface B1 of the disk 481b, and the upper surface S1 and the bottom surface B1 are on the same plane. Alternatively, the top surface S1 may be lower than the bottom surface B1.

The upper surface of the disk 481b is inclined from the horizontal, and the disk 481b sprays the mist M slightly below the horizontal. The mist M sprayed from the disk 481b passes through the slit S and is sprayed into the bowl portion 801. As shown in FIG. As a result, it is possible to prevent dirt Y such as urine from adhering to the spray device 481 without impairing the design and cleanability of the toilet device 10 . The shape of the disk 481b may be a flat circular disk, or may be provided with irregularities as appropriate, or may be conical or spherical. As a result, it is possible to adjust the spray direction of the mist, the particle size of the mist, and the like.

The spray device 481 is arranged below a part of the seating portion 200 (see FIG. 2) in a state where the toilet seat device 100 is installed on the toilet bowl 800, and sprays mist toward the inside of the toilet bowl 800.

In addition, in the embodiment, the spray device is not limited to the device described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7 . For example, an ultrasonic atomization device may be used as the atomization device. An ultrasonic atomizer irradiates a liquid with ultrasonic waves to mist the liquid. Also, for example, a two-fluid nozzle may be used as the spray device. The two-fluid nozzle jets the gas and the liquid together to make the liquid mist. However, when the device described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7 is used, there is an advantage that the blower 513 can easily control the spray range. In addition, the risk of clogging is low, and auxiliary equipment such as a compressor is not required.

8(a) to 8(c) are perspective views illustrating another toilet device according to the embodiment. In this example, a mist damper 482 is provided in front of the spray device 481 . The mist damper 482 covers the slit S in front of the spray device 481 in the closed state.

The mist damper 482 is fixed to, for example, the nozzle damper 479 and interlocks with the nozzle damper 479 . When the nozzle damper 479 opens, the mist damper 482 also opens, and when the nozzle damper 479 closes, the mist damper 482 also closes.

8(b) and 8(c) show the periphery of the nozzle damper 479 and the mist damper 482 in an enlarged manner. FIG. 8(b) shows a state in which the nozzle 473 is retracted inside the casing 400. FIG. At this time, the nozzle damper 479 is in a closed state and covers the front of the nozzle 473 . Also, the mist damper 482 is in a closed state and covers the front of the slit S.

When the spray device 481 is not used, the spray device 481 is hidden from the bowl portion 801 side by the mist damper 482 as shown in FIG. 8B. This can further prevent urine and dirt from adhering to the spray device 481 .

FIG. 8C shows a state in which the nozzle 473 has advanced forward and the nozzle damper 479 has been rotated. The forward advance distance of the nozzle 473 at this time may be shorter than the forward advance distance during washing of the human body's private parts. For example, the tip of the nozzle 473 is in contact with the nozzle damper 479 . Also, in FIG. 8C, the mist damper 482 rotates together with the nozzle damper 479 and is open. The mist damper 482 may control the direction and range in which the mist is sprayed.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating the operation of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment.
10(a) and 10(b) are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment.
FIG. 10(b) shows the target portions (P1 to P4) where the mist of sterilized water or tap water lands. FIG. 10(a) shows an example of the amount of water landing on each target portion (amount of water landing per unit area) in each mist mode in four stages of "large", "medium", "small", and "extremely small". .

The control device 405 automatically controls the spray device 481 when the state where the detection sensor 402 detects the user changes from the state where the user is not detected to the state where the user is detected. A pre-mist mode that sprays a mist of water into the bowl portion 801 can be performed.

For example, as shown in FIG. 9, when a user enters the toilet room and the human body detection sensor 403 detects that the user has entered the room, a signal (detection information) indicating that the user has entered the room is transmitted to the control device 405. be. Controller 405 automatically executes the pre-mist mode based on the signal. In the pre-mist mode, the control device 405 causes the spray device 481 to spray mist of tap water and causes the mist to land on the target site. The target site in the pre-mist mode is, as shown in FIGS. 10(a) and 10(b), the target site P4 (the cleaning area 801A of the bowl portion 801). In the pre-mist mode, the non-cleaning area 801B, the seating portion 200 and the rim upper surface 806 of the rim portion 805 are not sprayed.

In this way, the mist sprayed from the spray device 481 in the pre-mist mode lands on the cleaning area 801A to which contaminants are likely to adhere directly, forming a water film on the cleaning area 801A. As a result, in the cleaning area 801A of the toilet bowl 800, it is possible to suppress adhesion and sticking of waste.

The control device 405 automatically controls the spray device 481 when the detection sensor 402 changes from detecting the user to not detecting the user, and sprays a large amount of sterilized water mist. An after-mist mode of spraying inside the bowl 800 and onto the seat 200 can be performed.

For example, as shown in FIG. 9, when the user leaves the toilet room and the human body detection sensor 403 detects that the user has left the room, a signal (detection information) indicating that the user has left the room is transmitted to the control device 405. be. Controller 405 automatically executes the aftermist mode based on the signal. In the after-mist mode, the control device 405 causes the sterilization device 450 to generate sterilized water, causes the spray device 481 to spray sterilized water mist, and lands the mist on the target site. As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, target sites in the after-mist mode are target site P1 (surface 203 of seating portion 200), target site P2 (back surface 204 of seating portion 200, and rim upper surface 806). ), a target portion P3 (non-cleaning region 801B of the bowl portion 801), and a target portion P4.

In this way, by executing the after-mist mode, the disinfected water can be automatically made to land on the toilet bowl 800 and the seating section 200 after the user uses the toilet seat device 100 . As a result, it is possible to automatically suppress the generation of germs and stains not only in the toilet bowl 800 but also in a wide area such as the seating portion 200 .

The control device 405 can execute a manual mist mode in which, when the user operates the manual operation unit 500, the spray device 481 is controlled to spray disinfectant water mist onto the toilet bowl 800 and the seating unit 200. be.

For example, as shown in FIG. 9, when the user operates the manual operation unit 500 while entering the toilet room (for example, after executing the pre-mist mode), a signal (operation information) corresponding to the operation is transmitted to the control device 405. be done. Controller 405 executes the manual mist mode based on the signal. The manual mist mode is executed before and after using the toilet seat device 100, and when cleaning. In the manual mist mode, the control device 405 causes the sterilization device 450 to generate sterilized water, causes the spray device 481 to spray sterilized water mist, and lands the mist on the target site. The target parts in the manual mist mode are the target part P1, the target part P2, the target part P3, and the target part P4, as shown in FIGS. 10(a) and 10(b).

In this way, in the manual mist mode, by causing the disinfected water to land on the toilet bowl 800 and the seating portion 200 at the timing when the manual operation portion 500 is operated, not only the toilet bowl 800 but also the seating portion 200 can be cleaned. It is possible to suppress the generation of bacteria and stains over a wide range. In addition, the user can remove bacteria and stains generated on the seating portion 200 by wiping off the mist of the sterilizing water that has landed on the seating portion 200 . For example, by wiping off the sterilizing water that has landed on the surface using toilet paper or the like, it is possible to sterilize adhered stains that are difficult to suppress in the after-mist mode. In addition, for example, a user who is concerned about dirt on the seat 200 before using the toilet seat device 100 can disinfect the seat 200 in the manual mist mode. Since sterilization is performed based on the user's own operation, it is possible to enhance the user's sense of security and satisfaction.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating mist sprayed by the spray device according to the embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 11, the range over which the mist is sprayed may extend vertically.
The particle size of the mist sprayed from the spray device 481 has a distribution. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, from the spray device 481, small-particle mist M1 (fine particles p1 of tap water or sterilized water) and medium-sized or large-particle mist M2 (tap water or sterilized water) Water microparticles p2) and are sprayed. The fine particles p2 of the mist M2 tend to travel horizontally or downward due to their large weight. On the other hand, since the fine particles p1 of the mist M1 have a small weight, they may move upward under the influence of air currents.

12(a) and 12(b) are cross-sectional views illustrating the operation in the pre-mist mode and the after-mist mode of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment.
12(a) and 12(b) (and later-described FIGS. 13, 18, 19, 21 and 22), the paths of the mist M sprayed from the spray device 481 are indicated by arrows. . The thicker the arrow, the greater the amount of mist.

As shown in FIG. 12A, in the pre-mist mode, mist of tap water (or sterilized water) is applied to the washing area 801A so that the mist of tap water (or sterilized water) does not land on the non-washing area 801B. to spray. For example, in the pre-mist mode, the controller 405 does not activate the blower 513 that creates an updraft in the bowl portion 801 . Further, for example, in the pre-mist mode, the control device 405 controls the spray device 481 to spray mist with a relatively large particle size.

After that, when the user leaves the toilet room, the after-mist mode is executed. In FIG. 12(b), dashed arrows represent airflows formed by the air blower 513 (the same applies to FIGS. 13, 18, 19 and 21, which will be described later). As shown in FIG. 12(b), in the after mist mode, the blower 513 blows air forward and downward. At least part of the air sent from the blower 513 hits the inside of the toilet bowl 800 (the cleaning area 801A or the non-cleaning area 801B) and travels upward. As a result, an updraft U1 is formed that rises upward from the seat 200 from within the toilet bowl 800 below the seat 200 .

For example, in the after-mist mode, some mist is emitted from the spray device 481 toward the non-cleaning area 801B and lands on the non-cleaning area 801B. In addition, the mist with a relatively large particle size lands on the cleaning area 801A. Mist with a relatively small particle size lands on the rim upper surface 806, the seating portion 200, the toilet lid 300, and the like by the rising air current U1. As a result, every corner of the toilet apparatus 10 including the non-cleaning area 801B, the rim upper surface 806, the seating portion 200, the toilet lid 300, etc. can be sterilized. It is possible to suppress the generation of bacteria and stains due to dirt that is not washed away by washing water. Note that, for example, the operation of the toilet seat device 100 in the manual mist mode is also the same as described with reference to FIG. 12(b).

In general, tap water may contain scale components (eg, sodium, calcium, potassium, magnesium, etc.). In this case, the mist of sterilized water generated from tap water also contains scale components. When the mist containing the scale component evaporates after landing on the toilet seat device 100 or the like, scale may be deposited on the part where the mist has landed on the water.
The mist that has landed on the cleaning area 801A is washed away by the cleaning water for discharging dirt in the bowl portion 801. FIG. On the other hand, the mist that has landed on the non-cleaning area 801B is not washed away by the cleaning water. Therefore, when mist of tap water or sterilizing water is sprayed on the non-cleaning area 801B, scale gradually grows in the non-cleaning area 801B, and visible scale stains may occur in a short period of time.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 12A, the mist does not land on the non-cleaning area 801B in the pre-mist mode, so the mist lands on the non-cleaning area 801B in both the pre-mist mode and the after-mist mode. Compared to the case, the amount of mist containing scale components adhering to the non-cleaning area 801B can be reduced. As a result, it is possible to lengthen the period until the scale deposited by evaporation of the adhered mist grows into a visible limescale stain. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the generation of visible limescale stains in a short period of time while suppressing the generation of bacteria and stains in the non-cleaning area 801B.

In the non-cleaning area 801B, dropped and splashed contaminants may adhere to the non-cleaning area 801B. Therefore, in the pre-mist mode, even if tap water or sterilized water does not land on the non-cleaning area 801B and a water film is not formed on the non-cleaning area 801B, there is no possibility that contaminants will firmly adhere to the non-cleaning area 801B. low. Therefore, in the after-mist mode, by causing the sterilizing water to land on the non-cleaning area 801B, it is possible to suppress the generation of bacteria and dirt in the non-cleaning area 801B.

In FIG. 12A, the range in which the mist does not land on the non-cleaning area 801B is not limited to the case where the mist does not land on the non-cleaning area 801B at all. It may also include the case where the mist lands on the non-cleaning area 801B.

13(a) and 13(b) are cross-sectional views illustrating the operation in the after-mist mode of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment.
In this example, the after mist mode has a first step shown in FIG. 13(a) and a second step shown in FIG. 13(b).

As shown in FIG. 13A, in the first step, mist lands on the non-cleaning area 801B to form water droplets WD1 or water films WF1 on the non-cleaning area 801B. In the first step, the mist may also land on the cleaning area 801A to form water droplets or a water film.

As shown in FIG. 13B, the second step causes mist to land on water droplets WD1 or water films WF1 formed in the non-cleaning region 801B in the first step. Thus, in the second step, the water droplets WD1 or the water film WF1 are washed away by increasing the volume of the water droplets WD1 or the water film WF1. That is, the water droplets WD1 or the water film WF1 formed in the non-cleaning area 801B flow down to the cleaning area 801A due to the increase in volume and weight.

In the first step, water droplets WD1 or water films WF1 of the sterilized water are formed in the non-cleaning area 801B, thereby allowing the sterilizing water to act on the dirt adhering to the non-cleaning area 801B, thereby suppressing the generation of bacteria and stains due to the dirt. can do. Further, if the water droplets WD1 or the water film WF1 remain attached to the non-cleaning region 801B, the water droplets WD1 or the water film WF1 may evaporate to precipitate scale, which may cause scale stains on the non-cleaning region 801B. There is In contrast, by washing away the water droplets WD1 or the water film WF1 in the second step, it is possible to suppress the water droplets WD1 or the water film WF1 from remaining in the non-cleaning region 801B. Thereby, generation|occurrence|production of scale dirt can be suppressed. In the second step, even if not all the water droplets WD1 or the water film WF1 formed in the non-cleaning region 801B are washed away, the majority of the water droplets WD1 or the water film WF1 are washed away to generate visible limescale stains. can be delayed.

Also, for example, in one embodiment of the toilet seat device 100, the after-mist mode is not only a mode (second mode) in which mist is sprayed on the toilet bowl 800 and the seating section 200, but also sprays mist only inside the toilet bowl 800. It has a first mode. In one aftermist mode, the control device 405 executes either the first mode or the second mode.

For example, in the first mode, the control device 405 stops the air blower 513 or controls the particle size of the mist so that the mist lands only in the toilet bowl 800 (the cleaning area 801A and the non-cleaning area 801B). or In the first mode, by spraying a mist of sterile water into the toilet bowl 800, it is possible to suppress the generation of germs and stains in the toilet bowl 800. FIG. Also, the scale components contained in the mist that has landed in the toilet bowl 800 are washed away by the flushing water flowing inside the toilet bowl 800 . Therefore, the first mode, in which mist is sprayed only inside the toilet bowl 800, suppresses the generation of bacteria and stains inside the toilet bowl 800, and the visible limescale stains caused by scale components are removed from the rim upper surface 806 and the seating portion 200. , toilet lid 300 and the like can be suppressed.

On the other hand, in the second mode, the control device 405 operates the air blower 513 or controls the particle size of the mist so that the mist lands on the seating portion 200 or the like, for example, as in the example of FIG. 12(b). or In the second mode, it is possible to suppress the generation of bacteria and stains not only in the toilet bowl 800 but also in the seating portion 200 by spraying a mist of sterile water on the toilet bowl 800 and the seating portion 200. can.

In the after-mist mode, the control device 405 executes either the first mode or the second mode, thereby reducing the frequency of mist adhering to the seating portion 200 compared to the case where the second mode is executed each time. can do. As a result, it is possible to lengthen the period until the scale deposited by the evaporation of the mist that has landed on the water surface grows into a visible limescale stain. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the formation of visible limescale stains in a short period of time in areas such as the seat portion 200, the toilet lid 300, and the rim upper surface 806 where the washing water does not flow.

It should be noted that regardless of whether the first or second mode is executed in the after-mist mode, a mist of sterilized water is sprayed into the toilet bowl 800 where dirt is likely to occur. It is possible to reliably reduce the frequency of cleaning by a person. In addition, since the seating portion 200 is a portion that is less prone to staining than the inside of the toilet bowl 800, visible staining is less likely to occur even if the seating portion 200 is not sprayed with a mist of sterilized water each time.

In the first mode, the range in which the mist lands only in the toilet bowl 800 includes not only the case in which all the mist lands in the toilet bowl 800, but also a small amount of mist that does not contribute to visible limescale stains. It may include the case where the mist lands on the seating portion 200 or the like. In the specification of the present application, "landing mist" includes water droplets and water films that are formed by condensation after the mist has landed on the water.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment in the after-mist mode.
While the user is in the toilet room, the after-mist mode is not executed (step S101: No). When the user leaves the toilet room and the detection sensor 402 changes from detecting the user to not detecting the user (step S101: Yes), the control device 405 controls the seating section 200 and the toilet. Close the lid 300 and start the aftermist mode.

At this time, the control device 405 automatically determines which of the after mist mode, the first mode or the second mode, is to be executed (step S102). Thereby, since the user does not have to select either the first mode or the second mode each time, the burden on the user can be reduced.

For example, in step S102, the control device 405 determines that the frequency of execution of the second mode is lower than the frequency of execution of the first mode. Since the frequency of execution of the second mode is low, the amount of mist containing scale components adhering to the seating portion 200 can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to lengthen the period until the scale deposits and grows into visible limescale stains.

More specifically, for example, when a predetermined time has passed since the last execution of the second mode, or when the first mode has been executed a predetermined number of times after the last execution of the second mode (step S102: Yes), the second mode is executed again (step S103), and the after mist mode ends. Accordingly, since the second mode is periodically executed, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of bacteria and stains due to dirt while suppressing the occurrence of visible scale stains in a short period of time.

On the other hand, if the predetermined time has not elapsed since the previous execution of the second mode, or if the control device 405 has not executed the first mode a predetermined number of times after the previous execution of the second mode (step S102: No ), the first mode is executed (step S104), and the after mist mode ends. Note that the predetermined time and the predetermined number of times in step S102 may be appropriately determined in consideration of the concentration of scale components contained in the tap water and the amount of sprayed mist so that scale stains do not occur in a short period of time.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating another operation in the after-mist mode of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment.
In the aftermist mode, the control device 405 may determine which of the first mode and the second mode is to be executed based on the user's manual selection. For example, the manual operation unit 500 is provided with a switch, button, or the like for the user to select which of the first mode and the second mode is to be executed.

A user performs an input operation to select either the first mode or the second mode on the manual operation unit 500 . Then, the control device 405 receives information indicating which mode the user has selected (step S201).

When the user selects the first mode on the manual operation unit 500 and the detection sensor detects that the user has left the room (step S202: Yes), the control device 405 executes the first mode (step S203), Aftermist mode ends. It should be noted that if the user's exit from the room is not detected, the after-mist mode is not executed (step S202: No).
When the user selects the second mode on the manual operation unit 500 and the detection sensor detects that the user has left the room (step S204: Yes), the control device 405 executes the second mode (step S205), Aftermist mode ends. It should be noted that if the user's exit from the room is not detected, the after-mist mode is not executed (step S204: No).

Thus, in the after mist mode, the control device 405 executes either the first mode or the second mode based on the user's selection on the manual operation unit 500. FIG. That is, the user can set in advance which of the first mode and the second mode is to be executed by operating the manual operation unit 500 .

For example, if the setting is not changed, the controller 405 will always execute one of the first mode or the second mode in the aftermist mode. The concentration of scale components contained in tap water varies from region to region. In an area where the concentration of scale components is low, even if the second mode of spraying mist onto the seating portion 200 is executed each time, it takes a long time until visible limescale stains caused by the scale components occur. In such areas, by executing the second mode in the after-mist mode, it is possible to suppress the generation of germs and stains due to the dirt and reduce the frequency of cleaning. On the other hand, in areas where the concentration of scale components is high, if the second mode in which mist is sprayed also on the seating portion 200 is executed, visible limescale stains caused by the scale components tend to occur in a short period of time. In such areas, the frequency of cleaning can be reduced by not executing the second mode of spraying mist onto the seating portion 200 . The frequency of cleaning can be adjusted in both areas where the concentration of scale components contained in tap water is high and low by selecting which of the first mode and the second mode to be executed by the user using the manual operation unit 500. can be lowered.

Also, the manual operation unit 500 may be provided with a switch, button, or the like for the user to select at least one of the frequency of execution of the first mode and the frequency of execution of the second mode. For example, when the second mode is to be executed after a predetermined period of time has passed since the last execution of the second mode, the user can select the predetermined period of time using the manual operation unit 500 . Further, for example, when executing the second mode when the first mode has been executed a predetermined number of times after the previous execution of the second mode, the user can select the predetermined number of times using the manual operation unit 500 . The control device 405 executes at least one of the first mode and the second mode based on the user's selection (set frequency) in the manual operation unit 500 . Accordingly, the execution frequency of the first mode or the execution frequency of the second mode is selected so as to reduce the frequency of cleaning according to the concentration of scale components contained in the tap water in the area where the toilet seat device 100 is used. can do.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating another operation in the after-mist mode of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment.
In the example shown in FIG. 16 , the after-mist mode is controlled so that mist of sterile water is sprayed only inside the toilet 800 . In other words, the first mode described above is executed each time. FIG. 16 also illustrates operation in manual mist mode. In this example, the manual mist mode sprays a mist of sterilized water inside the toilet bowl 800 and onto the seating section 200, similar to the example described with reference to FIG.

When the user leaves the toilet room and the detection sensor 402 changes from detecting the user to not detecting the user (step S301: Yes), the control device 405 starts the after mist mode. do. A mist of sterilized water is sprayed only in the toilet bowl 800 (step S302), and the after-mist mode ends. In the after-mist mode, by not spraying the sterilizing water onto the seating portion 200 or the like, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of visible scale stains caused by scale components in a short period of time.

When the user does not leave the toilet room (step S301: No) and the user operates the manual operation unit 500 (step S303: Yes), the controller 405 starts the manual mist mode. A mist of sterilized water is sprayed onto the toilet bowl 800 and the seating portion 200 (step S304), and the manual mist mode ends. Note that when the user does not operate the manual operation unit 500 (step S303: No), the manual mist mode is not executed.

Since the manual mist mode is a mode in which the user wipes off the mist with paper or the like, the frequency of execution of the manual mist mode tends to be lower than the frequency of execution of the after mist mode. Therefore, as in the example shown in FIG. 16 , mist is sprayed only in the toilet bowl 800 in the after-mist mode, and mist is sprayed in the toilet bowl 800 and the seating portion 200 in the manual mist mode. The frequency of mist adhering to 200 can be reduced. As a result, it is possible to lengthen the period until the scale components deposited by the evaporation of the attached mist grow into visible limescale stains. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the formation of visible limescale stains in a short period of time in areas such as the seating portion 200 where the cleaning water does not flow.

17(a) and 17(b) are plan views illustrating the toilet bowl and toilet seat according to the embodiment.
FIG. 17A shows the rear surface 204 side of the seating portion 200. FIG. Toilet seat legs 210 are provided on the back surface 204 of the seat portion 200 . The toilet seat legs 210 are provided so as to protrude from the back surface 204 and come into contact with the rim upper surface 806 of the toilet 800 when the seat 200 is closed. In this example, a total of four toilet seat legs 210 are provided, but the number and shape of the toilet seat legs 210 are arbitrary.

As shown in FIG. 17(b), the rim upper surface 806 of the toilet bowl 800 has a region 810 with which the toilet seat legs 210 contact when the seat 200 is closed.

In a mist mode (e.g., after-mist mode or manual mist mode) that sprays the sterilized water mist onto the rim upper surface 806 and the seating portion 200, when the toilet lid 300 is open, the outside of the toilet bowl 800 and the toilet seat device 100 There is a risk that mist will scatter. Therefore, in order to suppress scattering of the mist, it is desirable that the toilet lid 300 and the seating portion 200 are in a closed state. On the other hand, in the mist mode in which mist of sterile water is sprayed onto the rim upper surface 806 and the seat 200, when the toilet lid 300 and the seat 200 are closed, the area 810 of the rim upper surface 806 and the toilet seat leg 210 are separated. Mist cannot land on region 810 and seat leg 210 because they are in contact with each other. In addition, when the toilet lid 300 and the seat 200 are closed, the rim upper surface 806 and the seat 200 are close to each other. Mist is difficult to reach.

Thus, in one embodiment of the toilet seat apparatus 100, the after-mist mode or manual mist mode has first and second steps described below.
18(a) and 18(b) are cross-sectional views illustrating the operation of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment in the after-mist mode or the manual mist mode.
FIG. 18(a) represents the first step, and FIG. 18(b) represents the second step. As shown in FIG. 18A, in the first step, the control device 405 controls the toilet seat motor 511 and the toilet lid motor 512 to close the seat 200 and the toilet lid 300 (fully closed state). state). With the toilet lid 300 closed, the first step is to spray the rim upper surface 806 and the seat 200 with a mist of sterile water. In the first step, since the toilet lid 300 is in a closed state, a large amount of mist is sprayed onto the rim upper surface 806 and the seating portion 200 while suppressing mist from scattering outside the toilet bowl 800 and the toilet seat device 100. can do.

As shown in FIG. 18B, in the second step, the control device 405 controls the toilet seat motor 511 and the toilet lid motor 512 to open the seat 200 and the toilet lid 300 . In the second step, the rim upper surface 806 and the seating section 200 are sprayed with a mist of sterile water while the seating section 200 and the toilet lid 300 are open. Accordingly, in the second step, a mist of sterilized water is sprayed onto the region 810 of the rim upper surface 806 with which the toilet seat leg 210 contacts. In the second step, since the seat portion 200 is in the open state, mist can land on the toilet seat leg portion 210 and the area 810 of the rim upper surface 806 as well. In addition, the mist is likely to land on the outer peripheral portion 806e of the rim upper surface 806 and the outer peripheral portion 204e of the seating portion 200 as well.

In one after-mist mode and manual mist mode, the control device 405 executes the second step, for example, after executing the first step. Alternatively, the first step may be performed after the second step. By the first step and the second step described above, while suppressing mist from scattering outside the toilet bowl 800 and the toilet seat device 100, a wide range including the area 810 where the toilet seat leg 210 of the rim upper surface 806 contacts. It is possible to suppress the generation of bacteria and dirt by allowing a large amount of mist to land on the surface.

In the second step of the after-mist mode or the manual mist mode, the range in which the seat 200 and the toilet lid 300 are open includes not only the fully-open state but also the half-open state. The fully open state is the maximum degree of opening in normal use. The half-open state is a state in which the degree of opening is smaller than that in the fully-open state. In other words, the half-open state is a state between the fully open state and the fully closed state, and is not limited to the half of the fully open state.

In the second step, when the seat portion 200 is in the fully open state, the toilet seat legs 210 are far from the rim upper surface 806 , so it is difficult for the mist to land on the toilet seat legs 210 . On the other hand, in the example shown in FIG. 18B, the control device 405 controls the toilet seat motor 511 so that the seating section 200 is in the half-open state in the second step. Therefore, the distance between the toilet seat legs 210 and the rim upper surface 806 can be shortened compared to when the seat 200 is fully opened. As a result, in the second step, the mist of the disinfected water can be made to land even on the toilet seat leg 210 where the mist of the disinfected water is difficult to reach in the first step.

Also, for example, the control device 405 determines that the total amount (ml) of the sterilized water mist sprayed on the rim upper surface 806 side in the first step is equal to the total amount of sterilized water mist sprayed on the rim upper surface 806 side in the second step. (ml) and control the spray device 481. For example, the total amount of sterile water mist that lands on the rim upper surface 806 in the first step is greater than the total amount of sterilized water mist that lands on the rim upper surface 806 in the second step. Since a large amount of the sterilized water mist lands on the rim upper surface 806 in the first step, the generation of bacteria and stains on the rim upper surface 806 can be further suppressed. At this time, since the toilet lid 300 is closed in the first step, even if a large amount of mist is sprayed, there is little possibility that the mist will scatter outside the toilet bowl 800 and the toilet seat device 100 . On the other hand, in the second step in which the seat portion 200 and the toilet lid 300 are open, mist is more likely to scatter outside the toilet bowl 800 and the toilet seat device 100 than in the first step. Therefore, by causing a relatively small amount of mist to land on the rim upper surface 806 in the second step, scattering of the mist to the outside of the toilet bowl 800 and the toilet seat device 100 can be suppressed.

Specifically, for example, the controller 405 determines that the time for spraying the sterilized water mist on the rim upper surface 806 side in the first step is longer than the time for spraying the sterilized water mist on the rim upper surface 806 side in the second step. The spray device 481 is controlled so that That is, for example, the time during which the first step is performed is longer than the time during which the second step is performed. As a result, the total amount of mist sprayed onto the rim upper surface 806 side in the first step can be made larger than the total amount of mist sprayed onto the rim upper surface 806 side in the second step.

19(a) and 19(b) are cross-sectional views illustrating the operation of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment in the second step of the after-mist mode or the manual mist mode.
In the second step described with reference to FIG. 18B, the control device 405 controls the toilet seat motor 511 and the toilet lid motor 512 while spraying a mist of sterilized water onto the rim upper surface 806 side. , at least one of the seat 200 and the toilet lid 300 may be moved. FIG. 19(a) shows a state in which the seating portion 200 is moved in the opening direction in the second step. When the seat portion 200 is rotated upward as indicated by an arrow A7, an airflow f2 (updraft) is generated in the vicinity of the rim upper surface 806. As shown in FIG. By riding the airflow f2 on the sterilized water mist, the sterilized water mist can land on a wider area of the rim upper surface 806 .

FIG. 19(b) shows a state in which the seating portion 200 is moved in the closing direction in the second step. When the seat portion 200 is rotated downward as indicated by an arrow A8, an airflow f3 is generated in the vicinity of the rim upper surface 806. As shown in FIG. As a result, the mist in the vicinity of the rim upper surface 806 is diffused, and the sterilized water mist can be made to land on the rim upper surface 806 in a wider range.

In the example shown in FIGS. 19(a) and 19(b), the control device 405 moves the seat portion 200, but the toilet lid 300 may be moved similarly. In the second step, the control device 405 may stop one of the seat portion 200 and the toilet lid 300 and move the other, or may move both.

FIG. 20 is a plan view illustrating the toilet apparatus according to the embodiment;
In FIG. 20, the toilet bowl 800 is represented by a solid line. Also, the casing 400 of the toilet seat device 100 placed on the upper surface of the toilet bowl 800, that is, the rim upper surface 806, is indicated by a dashed line.

The casing 400 (body portion) of the toilet seat device 100 is placed on the rear portion of the rim upper surface 806 . That is, the rim upper surface 806 has a non-mounting portion 806f on which the casing 400 is not mounted and a mounting portion 806r on which the casing 400 is mounted. The mounting portion 806r is positioned behind the non-mounting portion 806f. The mounting portion 806r is a portion of the rim upper surface 806 that overlaps the casing 400 in the vertical direction.

A packing 490 is provided between the casing 400 and the mounting portion 806r of the rim upper surface 806. As shown in FIG. The packing 490 is arranged in front of the mounting portion 806r so as to match the shape of the casing 400. As shown in FIG. As a result, it is possible to prevent wash water, mist, dirt, and the like from entering the rear side of the packing 490 .

A gap SP is formed between the mounting portion 806r and the casing 400 on the front side of the packing 490 . For example, in the after-mist mode or the manual mist mode, when mist of sterilizing water is sprayed not only in the bowl portion 801 but also on the rim upper surface 806, the mist of sterilizing water may enter the gap SP. Since the gap SP is a portion that is difficult for the user to see visually, the mist that enters the gap SP and lands on the mounting portion 806r unknowingly forms large water droplets WD2 or a water film WF2 and escapes to the outside of the toilet bowl 800. Dripping leaks may occur.

Therefore, in the after-mist mode or the manual mist mode, the spray device 481 is configured such that the average amount of water droplets per unit area on the non-mounting portion 806f is equal to Disinfectant water is jetted out so that it is larger than the average amount of water landing per unit area. It is desirable that the spray device 481 causes the sterile water to land on the non-mounting portion 806f and does not cause the sterile water to land on the mounting portion 806r.

By causing more sterilized water to land on the non-mounting portion 806f than on the mounting portion 806r, it is possible to suppress the generation of bacteria and stains on the non-mounting portion 806f. The non-mounting portion 806f is a portion that is easy to dry because air is less likely to stay than the mounting portion 806r, and is a portion that is easy for the user to see and wipe off. Therefore, even if the sterilizing water lands on the non-mounting portion 806f of the rim upper surface 806, the sterilizing water unknowingly condenses on the non-mounting portion 806f to form large droplets or a water film, resulting in a large amount of water. The possibility of dripping out of the toilet bowl 800 is low. In addition, since the amount of the sterilized water that lands on the mounting portion 806r is relatively small, the sterilized water unknowingly condenses on the mounting portion 806r to form large droplets or a water film, and the toilet bowl 800 becomes wet. You can prevent it from dripping out. Therefore, it is possible to suppress water leakage to the outside of the toilet bowl 800 when the sterilized water mist is sprayed onto the rim upper surface 806 of the toilet bowl 800 .

The average amount of water landing per unit area can be measured as follows.
First, after the after-mist mode or the manual mist mode is executed, the mist that has landed on the non-mounting portion 806f is wiped off with a kimtowel. By dividing the difference between the weight of the kimtowel before wiping off the mist and the weight after wiping off the mist by the area of the non-mounting portion 806f that has been wiped off, the sterilizing water that has landed on the non-mounting portion 806f is obtained. is calculated. Similarly, after the after-mist mode or the manual mist mode is executed, mist that has landed on the mounting portion 806r on the front side of the packing 490 is wiped off with a kimtowel. By dividing the difference between the weight of the kimtowel before wiping off the mist and the weight after wiping off the mist by the area of the wiped-off mounting portion 806r, the unit of the sterilized water that has landed on the mounting portion 806r An average amount of water landing per area is calculated.

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the operation of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment in the after-mist mode or the manual mist mode.
22(a) and 22(b) are perspective views illustrating the operation of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment in the after-mist mode or the manual mist mode.
In this example, the spray device 481 has a first water discharger 51 and a second water discharger 52 . For example, a nozzle capable of ejecting (spraying) tap water or sterilized water is used for the first water discharger 51 . For example, the aforementioned disk 481b is used for the second water discharger 52 .

A channel 113 that guides water to the spray device 481 branches into a channel that supplies water to the first water discharger 51 and a channel that supplies water to the second water discharger 52 . The water supply to each water discharger is controlled by the control device 405 . The first water discharger 51 and the second water discharger 52 jet (spray) the sterilized water at the same time, for example.

FIG. 22(a) illustrates the operation of the second water discharger 52 in the after-mist mode or the manual mist mode. The second water discharger 52 causes the sterilized water to land on the non-mounting portion 806 f of the rim upper surface 806 . The second water discharger 52 also lands the disinfected water on the front side of the second water discharger 52 in the bowl part 801 .

For example, the second water discharger 52 sprays a mist of sterilized water forward and downward. Part of the sprayed mist rises above the rim upper surface 806 on the rising air current U1 formed by the air blower 513 . As a result, the sterile water mist lands on the non-placing portion 806f, the seating portion 200, and the toilet lid 300. As shown in FIG.

FIG. 22(b) illustrates the operation of the first water discharger 51 in the after-mist mode or the manual mist mode. The first water discharger 51 jets (sprays) the sterilized water backward and downward, and lands the sterilized water on the rear side (the mounting portion 806r side) of the first water discharger 51 in the bowl portion 801. .

The spray device 481 is provided inside or below the casing 400 . Also, the sterilized water sprayed from the spray device 481 gradually drops due to its own weight. Therefore, it is desirable to spray the sterilized water from a high position in order to cause the sterilized water to land on the non-mounting portion 806f. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 21, the second water discharger 52 is arranged above the first water discharger 51 (nozzle water discharge port). As a result, the disinfected water can more reliably land on the non-mounting portion 806f. On the other hand, in order to prevent the sterilized water from landing on the mounting portion 806r, it is desirable to jet (spray) the sterilized water from a low position. By arranging the first water discharger 51 (nozzle water discharge port) below the second water discharger 52, it is possible to further suppress the sterilized water from landing on the mounting portion 806r.

In addition, the second water discharger 52 is desired to be clean because the sterilized water lands on the non-placement portion 806f of the rim upper surface 806, which may be touched by the user. Therefore, the second water discharger 52 is arranged inside the casing 400 . In addition, the second water discharger 52 (disk 481b) is located above the rim upper surface 806. As shown in FIG. As a result, dirt can be prevented from adhering to the second water discharger 52, and the cleanliness of the second water discharger 52 can be ensured.

On the other hand, the first water discharger 51 causes the disinfected water to land on the placement portion 806r side in the bowl portion 801, which is less likely to be touched by the user. Hard to become. Therefore, the first water discharger 51 is arranged to protrude downward from the casing 400 . For example, the first water discharge portion 51 (nozzle water discharge port) is located below the rim upper surface 806 . As a result, the first water discharger 51 can be arranged at a lower position, and the sterilized water can be further suppressed from landing on the placement section 806r.

In addition, the spray device 481 (second water discharge unit 52) sprays at least part of the sterilized water jetted toward the mounting portion 806r side (rear side) of the spray device 481 in a top view to a size that does not ride on the rising air current U1. to form. On the other hand, the spray device 481 (first water discharge unit 51) sprays at least part of the sterilized water to the non-mounting portion 806f (front side) from the spray device 481 in a top view in such a size that it rides on the rising air current U1. Form.

Specifically, the spraying device 481 makes the sterilizing water ejected toward the mounting portion 806r side of the spraying device 481 in the form of a shower, a film, or a mist of the first particle size when viewed from above. Further, the spray device 481 makes the sterilized water jetted toward the non-mounting portion 806f side of the spray device 481 in the form of a mist having a second particle size smaller than the first particle size.

As a result, the sterilized water jetted from the spray device 481 toward the non-mounting portion 806f side is more likely to ride on the rising air current than the sterilized water jetted toward the mounting portion 806r side, and the non-mounting portion 806f is more likely to receive the sterilized water. Disinfectant water can be made to land on the water. Conversely, the sterilized water jetted from the spray device 481 toward the mounting portion 806r is more difficult to ride in the rising air current than the sterilized water jetted toward the non-mounting portion 806f. can be suppressed from landing on the water.

In addition, the average value or the median value of the particle size distribution of the mist can be used to compare the size of the first particle size and the second particle size. Also, the shower shape and the film shape are forms of water that are larger than fine particles of the mist. The self-weight of the shower-like and film-like sterilizing water is greater than the self-weight of the mist particles of the first particle size. The shower-like sterilized water may be thread-like or large-grain-like. The shape and size of the sterilized water jetted to the mounting portion 806r side can be adjusted by, for example, the shape of the spout of the first water spouting portion 51 or the like.

21 and 22, the case where two water discharging parts are provided has been described. However, the number of water discharge units may be one or three or more. By appropriately changing the spray direction, the spray range, the particle size of the mist, etc., a large amount of sterilized water is allowed to land on the non-mounting portion 806f, while the sterilized water is suppressed from landing on the mounting portion 806r. can do.

FIG. 23 is a flow chart illustrating the operation in the manual mist mode of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment.
When the user operates the manual operation unit 500 , the control device 405 can execute the manual mist mode based on the operation information of the manual operation unit 500 . Here, if the manual operation unit 500 is continuously operated in a short period of time and the manual mist mode is continuously executed in a short period of time, the seating unit 200 may become excessively wet. . As a result, the user who touches the mist that has landed on the seat 200 may feel uncomfortable, and the mist that has landed on the water may drip outside the toilet bowl 800 .

Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 23, the control device 405 has a continuous manual mist prohibition mode. In the continuous manual mist prohibition mode, if the manual operation unit 500 is operated again within a predetermined time after the execution of the manual mist mode (before the predetermined time has passed since the end of the manual mist mode), the predetermined time after the end of the manual mist mode. Prohibits running manual mist mode again until the time has elapsed. Further, the continuous manual mist prohibition mode prevents the manual mist mode from being performed again until a predetermined time has elapsed since the end of the manual mist mode even when the manual operation unit 500 is operated again during the manual mist mode. restrict.

For example, as shown in FIG. 23, when the user operates the manual operation unit 500 to input the start of the manual mist mode (step S401: Yes), the controller 405 controls the predetermined time from the end of the previous manual mist mode. It is determined whether time has passed (step S402). If the predetermined time has passed (step S402: Yes), the control device 405 executes the manual mist mode (step S403). On the other hand, when the manual mist mode is being executed or the predetermined time has not passed since the end of the previous manual mist mode (step S402: No), and the wiping operation described later is not detected (step S404: No). , the controller 405 executes a continuous manual mist prohibition mode. That is, manual mist mode is not executed.

In this way, even if the manual operation unit 500 is operated during or within a predetermined time after the manual mist mode is executed, the manual mist mode is not executed again due to the continuous manual mist prohibition mode. As a result, even if the manual operation of spraying mist is continuously performed in a short period of time, it is possible to prevent too much mist from landing on the seating portion 200 . It is possible to prevent the user from feeling discomfort due to a large amount of mist landing on the seating portion 200 and from dripping out of the toilet bowl 800 from the mist landing on the seating portion 200 .

The predetermined time in step S402 is, for example, set to such a time that even if the manual mist mode is executed again and more mist lands on the seating section 200, the mist that lands on the water does not drip outside the toilet bowl 800. be. The predetermined time is appropriately determined according to the amount of mist sprayed in the manual mist mode, and is, for example, 10 seconds or more and 5 minutes or less. The predetermined period of time may be a period of time during which mist that has landed on the seating portion 200 in the previous manual mist mode evaporates.

The user can remove bacteria and dirt adhering to the seating section 200 by wiping off the mist that has landed on the seating section 200 using toilet paper or the like in the manual mist mode. After the user has wiped off almost all of the mist that has landed on the seat 200, if dirt still remains on the seat 200, the user executes the manual mist mode again and wipes off the remaining dirt. sometimes you want to In such a case, waiting for the predetermined time is inconvenient for the user.

Therefore, the control device 405 has a manual mist cancellation mode that cancels the continuous manual mist prohibition mode before a predetermined time elapses from the end of the manual mist mode and enables the manual mist mode to be executed again. As a result, the manual mist mode can be executed again even if the predetermined time has not passed since the previous manual mist mode, and usability can be improved.

The toilet seat device 100 has a wiping action detection means for detecting that the user has performed a wiping action on the seating portion 200 . The control device 405 executes the manual mist cancellation mode based on the detection information of the wiping action detection means.

As shown in FIG. 23, when the wiping action detection means detects that the user has performed a wiping action (step S404: Yes), the manual mist cancellation mode is executed. That is, the manual mist mode can be executed again, and the manual mist mode is executed (step S403).

For example, the seating detection sensor 404 can be used as the wiping action detection means. The control device 405 estimates the presence or absence of the wiping action based on the detection information of the seating detection sensor 404 . By using the seating detection sensor 404, it is possible to more reliably detect the user's wiping action on the seating area. For example, if the seating detection sensor 404 is a sensor that can detect the load applied to the seating portion 200, the user can wipe off based on the magnitude of the load applied to the seating portion 200 and the time during which the load was applied. It is possible to detect that an action has been performed. Further, for example, if the seating detection sensor 404 is a sensor that can acquire the distance to the human body, it is possible to detect that the user has performed the wiping action based on the change in the distance.

In addition, when the user operates the manual operation unit 500 to execute the manual mist mode, the manual mist mode is not executed by the continuous manual mist prohibition mode and the mist is not sprayed. There is a risk of erroneously recognizing that the device 100 has failed. Therefore, when the user's wiping action is not detected (step S404: No), the control device 405 notifies that the continuous manual mist prohibition mode has been executed by the notification means (step S405). This can prevent misidentification by the user. Any means that can notify by sound, light, or the like can be used as the notification means. For example, a speaker, an LED, a liquid crystal display, or the like can be appropriately provided in the manual operation unit 500 or the casing 400 as notification means.

Furthermore, the toilet seat device 100 has an operation unit (for example, the manual operation unit 500 ) for inputting that the user has performed a wiping action on the seating unit 200 . The control device 405 executes the manual mist canceling mode based on the input information input to the operation unit. For example, when the user operates a switch or the like of the manual operation unit 500, input information (signal) is sent to the control device 405, and the control device 405 executes the manual mist canceling mode when receiving the input information (step S406). : Yes). As a result, the manual mist mode can be executed again, and the manual mist mode is executed (step S403). By using such an operation unit, it is possible to more reliably detect the user's wiping action on the seating unit 200 and improve usability. Note that the user may operate the operation unit as necessary without performing the wiping action.

When the user does not operate the operation unit for inputting that the user has performed a wiping action on the seating unit 200 (step S406: No), the manual mist mode is not executed until a predetermined time has elapsed since the end of the manual mist mode. Remains prohibited.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating another operation in the manual mist mode of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment.
In the example shown in FIG. 24, the controller 405 has two manual mist modes, a first manual mist mode and a second manual mist mode. The total amount of sterile water mist sprayed in the second manual mist mode is smaller than the total amount of sterile water mist sprayed in the first manual mist mode. For example, the spray time in the second manual mist mode is shorter than the spray time in the first manual mist mode.

The first manual mist mode is an operation mode in which, when the user operates the manual operation unit 500 , the spray device 481 is controlled to spray sterilized water mist onto the seating unit 200 .

On the other hand, in the second manual mist mode, if the manual operation unit 500 is operated again within a predetermined time after execution of the first manual mist mode (before the predetermined time has passed since the end of the first manual mist mode), spraying The device 481 is controlled to spray the seat 200 with a mist of sterile water. In addition, the second manual mist mode controls the spray device 481 to spray sterilized water mist onto the seating part 200 even when the manual operation unit 500 is operated again during the execution of the first manual mist mode. do.

In other words, re-execution of the first manual mist mode is prohibited until a predetermined time has elapsed since the end of the first manual mist mode, and the second manual mist mode is executed instead.

For example, as shown in FIG. 24, when the user operates the manual operation unit 500 to input the start of the manual mist mode (step S501: Yes), the control device 405 terminates the previous first manual mist mode. It is determined whether or not a predetermined time has passed since the start (step S502). If the predetermined time has passed (step S502: Yes), the control device 405 executes the first manual mist mode (step S503). On the other hand, when the first manual mist mode is being executed or the predetermined time has not elapsed since the end of the previous first manual mist mode (step S502: No), and the wiping operation is not detected (step S504: No), controller 405 executes the second manual mist mode.

Thus, when the manual operation unit 500 is operated during execution of the first manual mist mode or within a predetermined period of time after execution, the second manual mist mode with a smaller spray amount of mist than the first manual mist mode is activated. executed. As a result, even if the manual operation of spraying mist is continuously performed, it is possible to prevent too much mist from landing on the seating portion 200 . It is possible to prevent the user from feeling discomfort due to a large amount of mist landing on the seating portion 200 and from dripping out of the toilet bowl 800 from the mist landing on the seating portion 200 .

It should be noted that the predetermined time in step S502 is, for example, a time such that even if the first manual mist mode is executed again and more mist lands on the seating section 200, the mist that lands on the water does not drip outside the toilet bowl 800. set. The predetermined time is appropriately determined according to the amount of sprayed mist, and is, for example, 10 seconds or more and 5 minutes or less. The predetermined period of time may be a period of time during which the mist that has landed on the seating portion 200 in the previous first manual mist mode evaporates.

When the user wants to further wipe off the dirt remaining on the seat 200 after executing the first manual mist mode, it may be difficult to wipe off the dirt if the amount of mist sprayed in the second manual mist mode is small.

Therefore, the control device 405 has a manual mist cancellation mode that enables the first manual mist mode to be executed again before a predetermined period of time elapses after the first manual mist mode ends. As a result, the first manual mist mode can be executed again even if the predetermined time has not passed since the previous first manual mist mode, and usability can be improved.

As shown in FIG. 24, when the wiping action detection means detects that the user has performed a wiping action (step S504: Yes), the manual mist cancellation mode is executed. That is, execution of the first manual mist mode becomes possible again, and the first manual mist mode is executed (step S503).
Further, when the user operates the manual operation unit 500, the first manual mist mode is not executed and the second manual mist mode is executed, and if the amount of sprayed mist is small, the user may cause the toilet seat device 100 to malfunction. There is a risk of mistaking that it has been done. Therefore, when the user's wiping action is not detected (step S504: No), the control device 405 notifies that the second manual mist mode has been performed by the notification means (step S505). This can prevent misidentification by the user.

Furthermore, when the user operates the operation unit for inputting that the user has performed a wiping action on the seating unit 200, input information (signal) is sent to the control device 405, and the control device 405 receives the input information. When received, the manual mist cancellation mode is executed (step S506: Yes). This enables execution of the first manual mist mode again, and the first manual mist mode is executed (step S503).

When the user does not perform the operation of inputting that the user has performed the wiping action on the seating section 200 (step S506: No), the second manual mist mode is executed (step S507).

25(a) and 25(b) are perspective views illustrating a method for measuring particle size according to the embodiment.
A laser diffraction method is used for particle size measurement. When a fine particle is irradiated with a laser, diffracted and scattered light is generated in various directions from the fine particle. The intensity of diffracted scattered light has a spatial pattern in the direction in which the light is emitted. This spatial pattern is called a light intensity distribution pattern. The light intensity distribution pattern changes depending on the particle size of the fine particles. The particle size can be calculated by detecting the light intensity distribution pattern using the correlation between the particle size of the fine particles and the light intensity distribution pattern.

As shown in FIGS. 25( a ) and 25 ( b ), a particle size measuring device 600 has a light emitting section 601 and a light receiving section 602 . The light receiving section 602 is provided so as to be able to receive the laser emitted by the light emitting section 601 . In measuring the particle size, the mist M sprayed from the spray device 481 is irradiated with the laser emitted by the light emitting unit 601 . The light receiving unit 602 receives diffracted and scattered light generated by laser irradiation. Thereby, the light intensity distribution pattern can be detected. Aerotrack LDSA-3500A (manufactured by Microtrack Bell Co., Ltd.) can be used as a measuring device.

FIG. 26 is a block diagram illustrating the main configuration of a toilet device according to a modification of the embodiment;
Note that FIG. 26 also shows the configuration of main parts of the waterway system and the electrical system.
As shown in FIG. 26, in this example, the solenoid valve 431, the sterilization device 450, the switching valve 472, the spray device 481, the nozzle motor 476, the nozzle 473, the nozzle cleaning chamber 478, the flow paths 110 to 113, etc. It is incorporated inside the toilet bowl 800 . In this example, the toilet seat motor 511 (rotating device), the toilet lid motor 512 (rotating device), the air blower 513, the hot air heater 514, and the like are incorporated inside the toilet bowl 800 . Also, in this example, the detection sensor 402 (for example, the human body detection sensor 403, the seating detection sensor 404, etc.) and the control device 405 are incorporated inside the toilet bowl 800. FIG.

In this way, each member (hereinafter referred to as “functional part”) incorporated inside casing 400 of toilet seat device 100 in the example shown in FIG. 4 may be incorporated inside toilet bowl 800 . Even when the functional unit is incorporated inside the toilet bowl 800 , the spray device 481 and the like can be operated in the same way as when the functional unit is incorporated inside the casing 400 .

Moreover, when the functional unit is incorporated inside the toilet bowl 800 in this way, the casing 400 of the toilet seat device 100 may be omitted. Alternatively, instead of the toilet seat device 100, the seat portion 200 and the toilet lid 300 may be provided. In this case, for example, the seat portion 200 and the toilet lid 300 are pivotally supported with respect to the toilet bowl 800 so as to be freely openable and closable. Also, in this case, for example, the nozzle damper 479 , the mist damper 482 , and the blower damper 516 are rotatably supported with respect to the toilet bowl 800 .

The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the invention is not limited to these descriptions. Appropriate design changes made by those skilled in the art with respect to the above embodiments are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they have the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, size, material, arrangement, installation form, and the like of each element included in the toilet bowl, toilet seat device, etc. are not limited to those illustrated and can be changed as appropriate.
Moreover, each element provided in each of the above-described embodiments can be combined as long as it is technically possible, and a combination of these is also included in the scope of the present invention as long as it includes the features of the present invention.

10 Toilet device 51 First water discharge part 52 Second water discharge part 100 Toilet seat device 110 to 113 Flow path 200 Seating part 200a Opening 204 Back surface 204e Peripheral part 210 Toilet seat leg 300 Toilet lid 400 Casing 402 Detection sensor 403 Human body detection sensor 404 Seating detection sensor 405 Control device 431 Solenoid valve 450 Sterilization device 472 Switching valve 473 Cleaning nozzle 474 Water outlet 476 Nozzle motor 478 Nozzle cleaning chamber 479 nozzle damper, 481 spray device, 481a motor, 481b disk, 481c water inlet, 482 mist damper, 490 packing, 500 manual operation unit, 511 toilet seat motor, 512 toilet lid motor, 513 air blower, 514 hot air heater, 515 toilet seat Heater 516 Air blow damper 516a Opening 600 Measuring device 601 Light emitting part 602 Light receiving part 800 Toilet bowl 801 Bowl part 801A Washing area 801B Non-washing area 801w Accumulated water 805 Rim part 805B Shelf-like part , 806 rim upper surface, 806e outer peripheral portion, 806f non-mounting portion, 806r mounting portion, 810 region, 811 spout, B1 bottom surface, M, M1, M2 mist, S slit, S1 upper end surface, SF swirling flow, SP gap , U1 updraft, W water, f2, f3 airflow, WD1, WD2 water droplets, WF1, WF2 water film

Claims (4)

a bowl portion for receiving dirt, a rim upper surface positioned above the bowl portion, and a spout for discharging wash water into the bowl portion for discharging the dirt from the bowl portion, the bowl portion comprising: a toilet bowl having a washing area through which the washing water passes and a non-washing area positioned above the washing area and below the top surface of the rim;
a seating part installed on the upper part of the toilet bowl and on which a user sits;
a sterilization device that generates sterilized water having a sterilizing component from tap water;
a spraying device for spraying the tap water or the sterilized water mist;
a detection sensor that detects the user;
a control device that controls the sterilization device and the spray device based on the detection information of the detection sensor;
with
The control device is
When the detection sensor changes from a state in which the user is not detected to a state in which the user is detected, the spray device is automatically controlled to produce a mist of the tap water or the sterilized water. A pre-mist mode that sprays a mist of the tap water or the sterilizing water onto the washing area so that the water does not land on the non-washing area;
When the detection sensor changes from detecting the user to not detecting the user, the spray device is automatically controlled to apply the sterilizing water to the non-washing area. After mist mode that sprays mist,
A toilet apparatus characterized in that it is capable of executing The aftermist mode is
a first step of causing the sterilized water mist to land on the non-cleaning area to form water droplets or a water film;
a second step of causing the sterilizing water mist to land on the water droplets or the water film formed in the first step, and washing away the water droplets or the water film by increasing the volume of the water droplets or the water film; ,
2. The toilet apparatus of claim 1, comprising: a bowl portion for receiving dirt, a rim upper surface positioned above the bowl portion, and a spout for discharging wash water into the bowl portion for discharging the dirt from the bowl portion, the bowl portion comprising: is a toilet seat device installed on the upper part of a toilet bowl having a washing area through which the washing water passes and a non-washing area positioned above the washing area and below the upper surface of the rim,
a seating portion on which the user sits;
a sterilization device that generates sterilized water having a sterilizing component from tap water;
a spraying device for spraying the tap water or the sterilized water mist;
a detection sensor that detects the user;
a control device that controls the sterilization device and the spray device based on the detection information of the detection sensor;
with
The control device is
When the detection sensor changes from a state in which the user is not detected to a state in which the user is detected, the spray device is automatically controlled to produce a mist of the tap water or the sterilized water. A pre-mist mode that sprays a mist of the tap water or the sterilizing water onto the washing area so that the water does not land on the non-washing area;
When the detection sensor changes from detecting the user to not detecting the user, the spray device is automatically controlled to apply the sterilizing water to the non-washing area. After mist mode that sprays mist,
A toilet seat device characterized by being capable of executing The aftermist mode is
a first step of causing the sterilized water mist to land on the non-cleaning area to form water droplets or a water film;
a second step of causing the sterilizing water mist to land on the water droplets or the water film formed in the first step, and washing away the water droplets or the water film by increasing the volume of the water droplets or the water film; ,
4. The toilet seat device of claim 3, further comprising:

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