JP7112671B2 - Bathroom vanity - Google Patents

Description

Aspects of the present invention relate generally to bathroom vanities.

2. Description of the Related Art There is known a bathroom vanity equipped with an illumination unit (hereinafter referred to as a hand illumination) for illuminating the vicinity of a water discharge unit and a bowl so that the surrounding area is dark such as at night.

If the hand lighting is controlled to turn on when the sensor detects a human body, the hand lighting will turn on when the sensor detects an object to be detected such as a hand near the water discharge unit. , and the water discharge from the water discharge part can be easily seen even at night, and the washstand is easy to use.

In addition, by turning off the hand lighting after a predetermined time (off-delay time) has elapsed since the sensor became non-detecting, the lighting is turned on and off when the user frequently puts his hands in and out of the bowl. can be suppressed from frequently occurring and giving discomfort to the user.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-184139

Hand-washing is the most common action performed at the bathroom vanity. In the case of hand washing, the lighting time of the illumination unit may be relatively short, so the off-delay time is usually set to several seconds to several tens of seconds. On the other hand, there are some actions that take a relatively long time (for example, about 15 minutes), such as washing, in addition to normal hand washing. For example, when washing, the user repeats an operation near the water discharger (eg, rinsing) and an operation outside the vicinity of the water discharger in the bowl (eg, rubbing). Therefore, the sensor repeats the detection state and the non-detection state.

However, normally, even if the sensor enters the detection state before the off-delay time elapses, the non-detection time continues to be counted. Therefore, for example, when the user does laundry on the bathroom vanity, even if the sensor repeats the detection state and the non-detection state, the non-detection time continues to be counted. In spite of this, there is a problem that the hand lighting is extinguished and the usability is poor.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a bathroom vanity that can prevent the lighting from going out during use.

A first aspect of the present invention is a washstand, comprising a water discharge section for discharging water, a bowl section for receiving water from the water discharge section, and a lighting section for illuminating at least one of the vicinity of the water discharge section and the bowl section. a sensor for detecting an object to be detected near the water discharge unit; a non-detection time measurement unit for starting measurement of the non-detection time when the sensor changes from a detection state to a non-detection state; and a detection signal from the sensor. and a control unit that switches between lighting and extinguishing of the lighting unit based on, wherein the control unit turns on the lighting unit when the sensor is in the detection state, and the non-detection time exceeds a predetermined time and the illumination unit is turned off, and the non-detection time is reset when the sensor enters the detection state before the non-detection time exceeds the predetermined time.

According to this bathroom vanity, the non-detection time is reset when the sensor enters the detection state before the non-detection time exceeds the predetermined time. Therefore, for example, even when the water discharge part is not used frequently, such as during washing, it is possible to prevent the lighting from being turned off while the bathroom vanity is in use, which is convenient. Further, according to this bathroom vanity, when the user frequently puts or removes an object to be detected, such as a hand, into or out of the bowl, it is possible to prevent the illumination unit from turning on and off in synchronization with water spouting from the water spouting unit. . Therefore, it is possible to prevent the user from feeling uncomfortable due to frequent turning on and off of the lighting unit.

In a second aspect based on the first aspect, the control unit controls, after the predetermined time, the This bathroom vanity is characterized by giving an extended time until the lighting part is turned off.

According to this bathroom vanity, it is possible to more effectively prevent the lighting from turning off during use by giving an extension time until the lighting unit is turned off after a predetermined time according to the number of times of detection. , easy to use.

A third invention is the bathroom vanity according to the second invention, wherein the control unit sets the extension time to a predetermined maximum time when the number of times of detection exceeds a predetermined number of times.

According to this bathroom vanity, even if the number of times of detection increases, the extension time is not longer than the predetermined maximum time, so that the lighting of the lighting part is continued uselessly after the washing action or the like is finished. can be suppressed.

A fourth aspect of the present invention is a washstand, comprising a water discharge section for discharging water, a bowl section for receiving water from the water discharge section, and a lighting section for illuminating at least one of the vicinity of the water discharge section and the bowl section. and a sensor that detects an object to be detected near the water discharge part, and when the sensor enters a detection state, measurement of the detection time is started, and when the sensor changes from the detection state to the non-detection state, the non-detection time is measured. and a control unit that switches between lighting and extinguishing of the lighting unit based on a detection signal from the sensor, wherein the control unit detects the Water discharge from the water discharge unit is started, the lighting unit is turned on, the water discharge is stopped when the sensor changes from the detection state to the non-detection state, and when the non-detection time exceeds a predetermined time, the lighting unit unit is turned off, and the length of time until the lighting unit is turned off after the sensor changes from the detection state to the non-detection state is changed according to the length of the detection time. It is a bathroom vanity.

According to this bathroom vanity, the length of time until the lighting unit is turned off after the sensor changes from the detection state to the non-detection state is changed according to the length of the detection time. Therefore, for example, even when the water discharge part is not used frequently, such as during washing, it is possible to prevent the lighting from being turned off while the bathroom vanity is in use, which is convenient. Further, according to this bathroom vanity, when the user frequently puts or removes an object to be detected, such as a hand, into or out of the bowl, it is possible to prevent the illumination unit from turning on and off in synchronization with water spouting from the water spouting unit. . Therefore, it is possible to prevent the user from feeling uncomfortable due to frequent turning on and off of the lighting unit.

In a fifth aspect of the invention, in any one of the first to fourth aspects of the invention, it further comprises a degree-of-change calculation unit that calculates a degree of change in the detection signal, wherein the control unit is configured to detect the detection state and the non-detection state. and a second threshold for determining the degree of change. The washstand is characterized in that the non-detection time is reset when the degree of change becomes equal to or greater than the second threshold before exceeding the predetermined time.

According to this bathroom vanity, the non-detection time is reset when the degree of change in the detection signal reaches or exceeds the second threshold before the non-detection time exceeds the predetermined time. As a result, it is possible to prevent the illumination from being turned off even during a task in which it is difficult for the sensor to be in a detection state, such as during a massage operation, and the usability is further enhanced.

ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to the aspect of this invention, the washstand which can suppress that illumination goes out during use is provided.

It is a perspective view which represents typically the washstand which concerns on embodiment. Fig.2 (a) and FIG.2(b) are the perspective views and front views which represent typically the faucet apparatus of the bathroom vanity which concerns on embodiment. It is a circuit diagram which represents typically a part of washstand which concerns on embodiment. It is a flow chart showing an example of operation of a bathroom vanity concerning a 1st embodiment. It is a timing chart showing an example of operation of a bathroom vanity concerning a 1st embodiment. 8 is a flow chart showing another example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment; 7 is a timing chart showing another example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment; It is a flowchart showing still another example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment. 9 is a timing chart showing still another example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment; It is a flow chart showing an example of operation of a bathroom vanity concerning a 2nd embodiment. It is a timing chart showing an example of operation of a bathroom vanity concerning a 2nd 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.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a bathroom vanity according to an embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 1 , the bathroom vanity 100 includes a basin 102 , a faucet device 10 , a support base 106 , a mirror cabinet 108 and a lighting device 110 .

In the specification of the present application, when viewed from the user facing the bathroom vanity 100, the front side is referred to as "front", the back side is referred to as "rear", the upper side is referred to as "upper", the lower side is referred to as "lower", and the right side is referred to. "Right side" and left side "left side".

The washbasin 102 has a bowl portion 122 and a back guard portion 124 . The bowl portion 122 is formed in a concave shape that is recessed downward. Bowl portion 122 receives water from water discharge portion 20 . The bowl portion 122 has a drain (not shown). A drain port is provided at the bottom of the bowl portion 122 . The drain port is connected to a drain pipe and allows water discharged into the bowl portion 122 to flow to the drain pipe.

The back guard portion 124 extends upward from the rear end of the bowl portion 122 . The back guard portion 124 is provided as necessary and can be omitted. The shape of basin 102 may be any shape having at least a bowl portion 122 .

The washbasin 102 is provided on a support base 106 . A support base 106 supports the washbowl 102 . The support base 106 has, for example, a body portion 106a and two drawers 106b and 106c. Each drawer 106b, 106c can store articles therein.

Thus, the support base 106 also functions as a cabinet capable of storing articles. The support base 106 is, in other words, a lower cabinet (floor cabinet). Note that the number of drawers is not limited to two, and may be one or three or more. Further, the support base 106 is not limited to a drawer-type cabinet, and may be a door-type cabinet.

The support base 106 does not necessarily have to have a storage function. Support base 106 may be of any configuration capable of supporting basin 102 . Also, the washbasin 102 may be directly attached to a wall surface of a washroom or the like, for example. That is, the support base 106 is provided as required and can be omitted.

The faucet device 10 is provided on the wall surface WS extending upward from the bowl portion 122 . The faucet device 10 is attached to, for example, the back guard portion 124 of the washbasin 102 and arranged above the bowl portion 122 . Thereby, the faucet device 10 discharges water toward the bowl portion 122 of the washbowl 102 . In the specification of the present application, "forward" is, in other words, the direction in which the wall surface WS faces. Moreover, in the specification of the present application, "water" includes not only cold water but also heated hot water.

The mounting position of the faucet device 10 is not limited to the above. good. The installation position of the faucet device 10 may be any position where water can be discharged into the bowl portion 122 . The faucet device 10 may be attached to any wall surface WS extending above the bowl portion 122 . The mounting position of the faucet device 10 may be appropriately set according to the shape of the washbowl 102 and the like.

A mirror cabinet 108 is installed above the basin 102 having a bowl portion 122 . The mirror cabinet 108 has a cabinet body 130 and three doors 131-133. The cabinet main body 130 is in the shape of a substantially rectangular parallelepiped box with an open front, and can store articles therein. Mirrors 131a to 133a are provided on the front surfaces of the doors 131 to 133, respectively. The number of doors and mirrors provided in the mirror cabinet 108 is not limited to three, and may be one, two, or four or more.

A lighting device 110 is provided on top of the mirror cabinet 108 . The lighting device 110 is provided above the doors 131 to 133 in the mirror cabinet 108, for example. The lighting device 110 emits light downward to illuminate the doors 131 to 133 (mirrors 131a to 133a) and the bowl portion 122 . The illumination device 110 is not limited to the upper portion of the mirror cabinet 108, and may be provided in the lower portion, the side edge portion, or the inside of the mirror cabinet 108. FIG.

Fig.2 (a) FIG.2(b) is the perspective view and front view which represent typically the faucet apparatus of the bathroom vanity which concerns on embodiment.
As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the faucet device 10 includes a water discharger 20, a main body 30, an illumination unit 40, an operation unit 50, and a sensor 60.

The water discharge section 20 discharges water to the bowl section 122 . The water discharger 20 is a so-called spout. The water discharger 20 is provided with a water discharge port 22 for discharging water. The operation unit 50 adjusts the flow rate of water discharged from the water discharge unit 20 . Also, the operation unit 50 adjusts the temperature of the water discharged from the water discharge unit 20 .

The operation unit 50 has an operation lever 50a. The operation unit 50 adjusts the flow rate and temperature of the water discharged from the water discharge unit 20 according to the user's operation of the control lever 50a. The operating lever 50a has an upper end pivotally supported by the main body portion of the operating section 50 so as to be capable of swinging in the front-rear direction and the left-right direction, for example. For example, by rocking the operation lever 50a in the front-rear direction, the flow rate of the water discharged from the water discharger 20 is adjusted, and by rocking the operation lever 50a in the left-right direction, the water discharged from the water discharger 20 is adjusted. temperature is adjusted. The mode of adjusting the flow rate and temperature in the operation part 50 is not limited to the operation lever 50a, and any mode that can adjust the flow rate and temperature may be used.

The water discharge unit 20 is connected to a water supply pipe, a hot water supply pipe, and the like via a hot water mixing unit and the like. The water discharged from the water discharger 20 is tap water (tap water), for example. The adjustment of the temperature of the water discharged from the water discharger 20 may be performed by an adjustment unit separate from the operation unit 50 . The operation unit 50 should be able to adjust at least the flow rate of water discharged from the water discharge unit 20 .

The body portion 30 is provided so as to protrude forward from the wall surface WS. The water discharge section 20 and the operation section 50 are provided below the body section 30 . The water discharger 20 discharges water downward from the main body 30 . An operation lever 50 a of the operation portion 50 extends downward from the body portion 30 . The body portion 30 covers the water discharge portion 20 and the operation portion 50 from above. The upper surface of the main body part 30 is provided substantially horizontally, and an article can be placed thereon. That is, the body portion 30 can be used as a shelf for placing articles. Thus, the faucet device 10 may be a so-called shelf faucet.

The water discharging part 20, the main body part 30, and the operation part 50 are, for example, individually attached to the wall surface WS (the front surface of the back guard part 124). As a result, for example, during maintenance, only the body portion 30 can be removed from the wall surface WS while the water discharge portion 20 and the operation portion 50 are still attached to the wall surface WS, thereby improving maintainability of the faucet device 10. can be made However, the water discharging part 20 and the operation part 50 may be attached to the main body part 30 and attached to the wall surface WS via the main body part 30 .

The water discharger 20 may have a so-called pull-out function that allows it to be pulled out from the wall surface WS for use. In other words, the water discharger 20 may be pulled out from the main body 30 . As a result, the water discharger 20 can be used as a hand shower, and the bowl 122 can be cleaned. In this case, the water discharger 20 may be held by the wall surface WS or may be held by the main body 30 .

The lighting unit 40 illuminates at least one of the vicinity of the water discharging unit 20 and the bowl unit 122 . The lighting unit 40 is, for example, a hand lighting provided in the faucet device 10 . The lighting unit 40 is provided near the water discharging unit 20, for example. In this example, the lighting section 40 is provided in the lower portion of the main body section 30 and irradiates light toward the bowl section 122 positioned below. Also, in this example, the lighting unit 40 is located beside the water discharging unit 20 . The lighting unit 40 has a light source such as an LED, for example.

Sensor 60 detects an object to be detected near water discharger 20 . The sensor 60 detects, for example, the user's hand or the like near the water discharger 20 . The sensor 60 is, for example, a photoelectric sensor having a light projecting portion and a light receiving portion. The sensor 60 is provided near the water discharger 20, for example. In this example, the sensor 60 is provided at the lower front portion of the body portion 30 . The sensor 60 is located in front of the water discharger 20, for example.

FIG. 3 is a schematic circuit diagram of part of the bathroom vanity according to the embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 3 , the bathroom vanity 100 further includes a control section 70 , a non-detection time measurement section 80 and a change degree calculation section 90 .

The control unit 70 is provided in the faucet device 10, for example. The controller 70 is provided inside the main body 30, for example. The control unit 70 is connected to the illumination unit 40 , the sensor 60 , the non-detection time measurement unit 80 and the change degree calculation unit 90 . The control section 70 controls the lighting section 40 based on the detection signal from the sensor 60 . More specifically, the control unit 70 switches between lighting and extinguishing of the lighting unit 40 based on the detection signal from the sensor 60 .

The control section 70 may control other than the lighting section 40 . The control unit 70 may control opening and closing of an on-off valve provided between the water supply source and the water discharging unit 20 based on the detection signal from the sensor 60, for example. Accordingly, the control unit 70 can perform so-called automatic water spouting, in which the water spouting unit 20 spouts water and stops the water based on the detection signal from the sensor 60 . Thus, the faucet device 10 may be a faucet device that automatically discharges water. Also, the controller 70 may control the sensor 60 .

The non-detection time measurement unit 80 is provided in the faucet device 10, for example. The non-detection time measurement unit 80 is provided inside the body unit 30, for example. The non-detection time measurement unit 80 measures the non-detection time NT, which is the time during which the sensor 60 is in the non-detection state. The non-detection time measurement unit 80 starts measuring the non-detection time NT when the sensor 60 changes from the detection state to the non-detection state. For example, when the non-detection time measurement unit 80 is provided outside the control unit 70 , the measured non-detection time NT is output to the control unit 70 . Note that the non-detection time measurement unit 80 may be provided in the control unit 70 . In other words, the non-detection time measuring section 80 and the control section 70 may be one component.

The non-detection time measurement section 80 may be able to measure the detection time DT, which is the time during which the sensor 60 is in the detection state, in addition to the non-detection time NT. In this case, the non-detection time measuring unit 80 starts measuring the detection time DT when the sensor 60 is in the detection state, for example. Also, as will be described later, a detection time measurement unit 85 may be provided instead of the non-detection time measurement unit 80 .

The degree-of-change calculation unit 90 is provided in the faucet device 10, for example. The change degree calculator 90 is provided inside the main body 30, for example. The change degree calculator 90 calculates the change degree of the detection signal from the sensor 60 . For example, when the change degree calculation unit 90 is provided outside the control unit 70 , the calculated change degree is output to the control unit 70 . Note that the degree-of-change calculation unit 90 may be provided in the control unit 70 . In other words, the change degree calculator 90 and the controller 70 may be one component.

The degree of change is, for example, variations in detection signals. The degree of change is represented, for example, by the standard deviation of the detection signal. More specifically, the degree of change is represented, for example, by the standard deviation of the past eight detection signals. The degree of change may be, for example, the derivative of the sensed signal. For example, when an object to be detected such as a user's hand within the detectable range of the sensor 60 is moving, the degree of change is large. On the other hand, for example, when there is no detected object within the detectable range of the sensor 60, or when the detected object within the detectable range of the sensor 60 is not moving, the degree of change is small. That is, even if the detection signal is small, it can be assumed that the object is moving if the degree of change is large.

FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing an example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 4, when the sensor 60 is in the detection state (step S101), the control unit 70 turns on the illumination unit 40 (step S102). When the sensor 60 changes from the detection state to the non-detection state (step S103), the non-detection time measuring unit 80 starts measuring the non-detection time NT (step S104).

If the sensor 60 enters the detection state before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT (step S105: No), the controller 70 resets the non-detection time NT (step S106). When the non-detection time NT is reset and the sensor 60 changes from the detection state to the non-detection state again, the process returns to step S104, and the non-detection time measuring unit 80 starts measuring the non-detection time NT again.

When the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT (step S105: Yes), the control unit 70 turns off the lighting unit 40 (step S107).

FIG. 5 is a timing chart showing an example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 5, when the sensor 60 is in the detection state, the control unit 70 turns on the lighting unit 40 (timing t101). In this example, the control unit 70 turns on the lighting unit 40 and causes the water discharging unit 20 to start discharging water. When the sensor 60 is in the non-detection state, the controller 70 stops the water discharge from the water discharger 20 (timing t102). Further, when the sensor 60 enters the non-detection state, the non-detection time measuring unit 80 starts measuring (counting) the non-detection time NT. When the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT, the control unit 70 turns off the illumination unit 40 (timing t103).

When the sensor 60 is in the detection state again, the control section 70 turns on the illumination section 40 and starts water discharge from the water discharge section 20 (timing t104). When the sensor 60 is in the non-detection state, the control unit 70 stops water spouting from the water spouting unit 20, and the non-detection time measuring unit 80 starts measuring (counting) the non-detection time NT (timing t105).

When the sensor 60 enters the detection state before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT, the controller 70 resets the non-detection time NT and causes the water discharger 20 to start water discharge (timing t106). When the sensor 60 changes from the detection state to the non-detection state again, the control unit 70 stops water spouting from the water discharge unit 20, and the non-detection time measuring unit 80 starts measuring the non-detection time NT again ( timing t107). When the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT, the control unit 70 turns off the illumination unit 40 (timing t108).

Thus, in the first embodiment, the illumination unit 40 continues lighting until the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT even when the sensor 60 is in the non-detection state. Then, when the sensor 60 enters the detection state, the non-detection time NT is reset. Thereby, for example, even when the water discharger 20 is not used frequently, such as during washing, it is possible to prevent the lighting from being turned off while the bathroom vanity 100 is in use, which is convenient. In addition, when the user frequently puts an object to be detected such as a hand into and out of the bowl portion 122 , it is possible to prevent the illumination portion 40 from turning on and off in synchronization with water spouting from the water spouting portion 20 . Therefore, it is possible to prevent the user from feeling uncomfortable due to frequent turning on and off of the illumination unit 40 .

In this example, the non-detection time NT is reset when the sensor 60 enters the detection state (timing t106), but the timing of resetting the non-detection time NT is not limited to this. The non-detection time NT may be reset, for example, when the sensor 60 enters the non-detection state (timing t107), or after the sensor 60 enters the detection state and before it enters the non-detection state. may be broken. That is, the non-detection time NT may be reset anywhere between timing t106 and timing t107.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing another example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 6, when the sensor 60 is in the detection state (step S201), the control unit 70 turns on the illumination unit 40 (step S202). When the sensor 60 changes from the detection state to the non-detection state (step S203), the non-detection time measuring unit 80 starts measuring the non-detection time NT (step S204). If the sensor enters the detection state before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT (step S205: No), the control unit 70 resets the non-detection time NT (step S206). Steps S201-S206 in FIG. 6 are substantially the same as steps S101-S106 in FIG.

When the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT (step S205: Yes), the control unit 70 determines that the number of times the sensor 60 is in the detection state (the number of detections) before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT is 1. It is determined whether it is more than the number of times (step S207).

If the number of times of detection is not one or more (that is, it is 0) (step S207: No), the control section 70 turns off the lighting section 40 (step S208).

If the number of detections is one or more (step S207: Yes), the control unit 70 determines whether the number of detections is two or more (step S209). If the number of times of detection is not two or more (that is, once) (step S209: No), the control unit 70 gives the first extension time ET1 until the illumination unit 40 is turned off after the predetermined time PT. (step S210). As a result, the lighting time of the illumination unit 40 is extended by the first extension time ET1. For example, after the first extension time ET1 has elapsed, the control unit 70 turns off the lighting unit 40 (step S208).

If the number of detections is two or more (step S209: Yes), the control unit 70 determines whether the number of detections is three or more (step S211). If the number of times of detection is not two or more (that is, once) (step S211: No), the control unit 70 gives the second extension time ET2 until the lighting unit 40 is turned off after the predetermined time PT. (step S212). As a result, the lighting time of the lighting unit 40 is extended by the second extension time ET2. For example, after the second extension time ET2 has elapsed, the control unit 70 turns off the illumination unit 40 (step S208).

If the number of times of detection is three or more (step S211: Yes), the control unit 70 gives a third extension time ET3 until the lighting unit 40 is turned off after the predetermined time PT (step S213). As a result, the lighting time of the illumination unit 40 is extended by the third extension time ET3. For example, after the third extension time ET3 has elapsed, the control unit 70 turns off the lighting unit 40 (step S208).

In this way, the control unit 70 turns off the illumination unit 40 after the predetermined time PT according to the number of times the sensor 60 has been in the detection state (the number of times of detection) before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT. extension time ET (for example, first to third extension times ET1 to ET3).

The greater the number of times of detection, the higher the possibility that an action such as washing has been performed for a long time. Therefore, by giving an extension time ET until the illumination unit 40 is turned off after a predetermined time according to the number of detections, it is possible to more effectively prevent the illumination from being turned off while the bathroom vanity 100 is in use. It works and is easy to use.

For example, the second extension time ET2 is longer than the first extension time ET1, and the third extension time ET3 is longer than the second extension time ET2. Thus, for example, the extension time ET can be lengthened as the number of times of detection increases.

On the other hand, if the extension time ET is set to be infinitely long in accordance with the number of times of detection, there is a possibility that the lighting of the illumination unit 40 will continue unnecessarily after the washing action or the like is finished. Therefore, for example, when the number of times of detection exceeds a predetermined number of times, the control unit 70 sets the extension time ET to a predetermined maximum time. For example, in this example, the predetermined maximum time of the extension time ET is the third extension time ET3. As a result, even if the number of times of detection increases, the extension time ET can be prevented from being longer than the predetermined maximum time, and the continuation of the lighting of the illumination unit 40 after the washing action is finished can be suppressed. can.

If the sensor 60 does not enter the detection state during the first to third extension times ET1 to ET3, the control unit 70 turns off the illumination unit 40, If the sensor 60 is in the detection state, it may be controlled to return to step S204 after the sensor 60 is in the non-detection state.

FIG. 7 is a timing chart showing another example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 7, when the sensor 60 is in the detection state, the control unit 70 turns on the illumination unit 40 and starts water discharge from the water discharge unit 20 (timing t201). When the sensor 60 is in the non-detection state, the control unit 70 stops water spouting from the water discharger 20, and the non-detection time measuring unit 80 starts measuring (counting) the non-detection time NT (timing t202).

When the sensor 60 enters the detection state before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT, the controller 70 resets the non-detection time NT and causes the water discharger 20 to start water discharge (timing t203). When the sensor 60 changes from the detection state to the non-detection state again, the control unit 70 stops water spouting from the water discharge unit 20, and the non-detection time measuring unit 80 starts measuring the non-detection time NT again ( timing t204).

When the sensor 60 enters the detection state again before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT, the control unit 70 again resets the non-detection time NT and starts water discharge from the water discharger 20 (timing t205). Then, when the sensor 60 changes from the detection state to the non-detection state again, the control unit 70 stops water spouting from the water discharge unit 20, and the non-detection time measuring unit 80 starts measuring the non-detection time NT again. (timing t206).

When the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT, the control unit 70 determines the number of times the sensor 60 enters the detection state before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT. Afterwards, an extension time ET is given until the illumination unit 40 is turned off (timing t207). The number of times of detection is the same as the number of times of resetting the non-detection time NT (number of resets). Therefore, the control unit 70 may give the extension time ET according to the number of resets. In this example, the number of times the sensor 60 is in the detection state from the non-detection state immediately after the illumination unit 40 is turned on until the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT is two times. Therefore, the control unit 70 gives the second extension time ET2 after the predetermined time PT. After the second extension time ET2 has elapsed, the control unit 70 turns off the illumination unit 40 (timing t208).

FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing still another example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment.
The control unit 70 has a first threshold TH1 for determining the detection state and the non-detection state, and a second threshold TH2 for determining the degree of change of the detection signal.

As shown in FIG. 8, when the detection signal is less than the first threshold TH1 (step S301: No), the sensor 60 is in the non-detection state. When the detection signal reaches or exceeds the first threshold TH1 (step S301: Yes), the sensor 60 enters the detection state (step S302), and the control section 70 turns on the lighting section 40 (step S303). When the sensor 60 changes from the detection state to the non-detection state (step S304), the non-detection time measuring section 80 starts measuring the non-detection time NT (step S305). Steps S302-S305 in FIG. 8 are substantially the same as steps S101-S104 in FIG.

If the degree of change in the detection signal reaches or exceeds the second threshold TH2 before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT (step S306: Yes), the controller 70 resets the non-detection time NT (step S307). When the non-detection time NT is reset and the degree of change in the detection signal becomes less than the second threshold TH2, the process returns to step S305, and the non-detection time measurement unit 80 starts measuring the non-detection time NT again.

Even if the degree of change in the detection signal does not reach or exceed the second threshold TH2 before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT (step S306: No), before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT, the sensor is detected (step S308: No), the control unit 70 resets the non-detection time NT (step S307).

When the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT (step S308: Yes), the control unit 70 turns off the lighting unit 40 (step S309).

In this way, the control unit 70 outputs the detection signal before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT in addition to when the sensor 60 enters the detection state before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT. The non-detection time NT is reset when the degree of change reaches or exceeds the second threshold TH2.

For example, when the detection signal is equal to or greater than the first threshold TH1, the sensor 60 detects that there is an object to be detected such as the user's hand near the water discharger 20 (sensor 60), and enters the detection state. On the other hand, for example, when the washing action (massage washing) is performed at a position away from the water discharger 20, the detection signal is small and the first threshold value TH1 or more is unlikely to occur, so the sensor 60 is unlikely to be in the detection state. . Therefore, if work is performed for a long time in this state, the non-detection time NT may not be reset because the sensor 60 does not enter the detection state, and the illumination unit 40 may be turned off even though the work is in progress.

On the other hand, in the embodiment, for example, even if the detection signal of the sensor 60 is small and the sensor 60 does not enter the detection state, the non-detection time NT reset. As a result, it is possible to prevent the illumination from being turned off even during a task in which it is difficult for the sensor 60 to be in a detection state, such as during a massage operation, for example.

FIG. 9 is a timing chart showing still another example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 9 , when the detection signal reaches or exceeds the first threshold TH1, the sensor 60 enters the detection state, and the control unit 70 turns on the lighting unit 40 and causes the water discharging unit 20 to start discharging water. (Timing t301). When the detection signal becomes less than the first threshold TH1, the sensor 60 enters the non-detection state, the control section 70 stops the water discharge from the water discharger 20, and the non-detection time measuring section 80 measures the non-detection time NT. (counting) is started (timing t302).

In the non-detection state of the sensor 60, when the degree of change in the detection signal reaches or exceeds the second threshold TH2 before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT, the control unit 70 resets the non-detection time NT (timing t303 ). At this time, if the detection signal is less than the first threshold value TH1, the sensor 60 does not enter the detection state, so the water discharger 20 does not discharge water. When the degree of change in the detection signal becomes less than the second threshold TH2, the non-detection time measuring section 80 starts measuring the non-detection time NT again (timing t304).

When the degree of change in the detection signal becomes equal to or greater than the second threshold TH2 again before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT, the controller 70 resets the non-detection time NT again (timing t305). At this time as well, the detection signal is less than the first threshold TH1, and the sensor 60 is not in the detection state, so the water discharger 20 does not discharge water. Then, when the degree of change in the detection signal becomes less than the second threshold TH2 again, the non-detection time measuring section 80 starts measuring the non-detection time NT again (timing t306).

When the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT, the control unit 70 turns off the illumination unit 40 (timing t307).

Although not shown in FIG. 9, as shown in FIG. 5, even in this example, when the detection signal becomes equal to or greater than the first threshold TH1 before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT, the sensor 60 becomes a detection state, and the control unit 70 resets the non-detection time NT. Further, for example, even if the degree of change in the detection signal is less than the second threshold TH2, the control unit 70 resets the non-detection time NT when the detection signal becomes equal to or greater than the first threshold TH1.

Further, in this example, the threshold value of the detection signal for turning on the lighting unit 40 is the same value as the threshold value for the detection signal for discharging water from the water discharging unit 20, but the detection signal for turning on the lighting unit 40 may be a value different from the threshold of the detection signal for water discharge from the water discharger 20 . In the specification of the present application, the “detection state” represents a state in which the detection signal from the sensor 60 exceeds a threshold (for example, the first threshold TH1) for turning on the illumination unit 40.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing an example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, instead of the non-detection time measurement unit 80, the washstand 100 has a detection time measurement unit 85 that measures the detection time DT and the non-detection time NT. The detection time measurement unit 85 starts measuring the detection time DT when the sensor 60 enters the detection state, and starts measuring the non-detection time NT when the sensor 60 changes from the detection state to the non-detection state.

As shown in FIG. 10, when the sensor 60 is in the detection state (step S401), the detection time measurement unit 85 starts measuring the detection time DT (step S402), and the control unit 70 controls the Water spouting is started and the lighting unit 40 is turned on (step S403). When the sensor 60 changes from the detection state to the non-detection state (step S404), the detection time measurement unit 85 starts measuring the non-detection time NT (step S405), and the control unit 70 stops the water discharge from the water discharge unit 20. (step S406).

When the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT (step S407), the control unit 70 determines whether the detection time DT has exceeded the first time T1 (step S408). If the detection time DT does not exceed the first time T1 (step S408: No), the control unit 70 turns off the lighting unit 40 (step S409).

When the detection time DT exceeds the first time T1 (step S408: Yes), the control unit 70 gives a fourth extension time ET4 until the illumination unit 40 is turned off after the predetermined time PT (step S410). As a result, the lighting time of the illumination unit 40 is extended by the fourth extension time ET4. After the fourth extension time ET4 has elapsed, the control unit 70 turns off the lighting unit 40 (step S409).

Thus, in the embodiment, the control unit 70 changes the length of time until the lighting unit 40 is turned off after the sensor 60 changes from the detection state to the non-detection state according to the length of the detection time DT. do. More specifically, for example, the control unit 70 gives an extension time ET until the illumination unit 40 is turned off after the predetermined time PT according to the length of the detection time DT. For example, the longer the detection time DT, the longer the extension time ET may be.

Note that the order of steps S407 and S408 may be reversed. In this case, after step S406, the determination in step S408 is performed, and if the detection time DT does not exceed the first time T1 (step S408: No), the control unit 70 controls the illumination after the predetermined time PT has elapsed (step S407). The unit 40 is turned off (step S409). If the detection time DT exceeds the first time T1 (step S408: Yes), the control unit 70 turns off the lighting unit 40 after the predetermined time PT (step S407) and the fourth extension time ET4 (step S410) have passed ( step S409).

FIG. 11 is a timing chart showing an example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the second embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 11, when the sensor 60 is in the detection state, the control unit 70 turns on the illumination unit 40 and starts water discharge from the water discharge unit 20, and the detection time measurement unit 85 determines the detection time DT. Measurement (counting) is started (timing t401). When the sensor 60 is in the non-detection state, the control unit 70 stops water spouting from the water spouting unit 20, the detection time measurement unit 85 finishes measuring (counting) the detection time DT, and measures (counts) the non-detection time NT. counting) is started (timing t402).

When the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT, the control unit 70 determines the length of time until the lighting unit 40 is turned off after the sensor 60 changes from the detection state to the non-detection state, according to the length of the detection time DT. Change the length (timing t403). For example, when the detection time DT exceeds the first time T1, the control unit 70 gives an extension time ET until the illumination unit 40 is turned off after a predetermined time PT. In this case, since the detection time DT from the timing t401 to the timing t402 does not exceed the first time T1, the control section 70 does not give the extension time ET after the predetermined time PT. Therefore, the control unit 70 turns off the illumination unit 40 when the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT.

When the sensor 60 is in the detection state again, the control unit 70 turns on the illumination unit 40 and starts water discharge from the water discharge unit 20, and the detection time measurement unit 85 measures (counts) the detection time DT. start (timing t404). When the sensor 60 is in the non-detection state, the control unit 70 stops water spouting from the water spouting unit 20, the detection time measurement unit 85 finishes measuring (counting) the detection time DT, and measures (counts) the non-detection time NT. counting) is started (timing t405).

When the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT, the control unit 70 determines the length of time until the lighting unit 40 is turned off after the sensor 60 changes from the detection state to the non-detection state, according to the length of the detection time DT. Change the length (timing t406). In this case, since the detection time DT from the timing t404 to the timing t405 exceeds the first time T1, the control section 70 gives the fourth extension time ET4 after the predetermined time PT. Therefore, when the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT, the control unit 70 turns off the lighting unit 40 after the fourth extension time ET4 has elapsed (timing t407).

Thus, in the second embodiment, the illumination unit 40 continues lighting until the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT even when the sensor 60 is in the non-detection state. Then, according to the length of the detection time DT, the length of time until the illumination unit 40 is turned off after the sensor 60 changes from the detection state to the non-detection state is changed. Thereby, for example, even when the water discharger 20 is not used frequently, such as during washing, it is possible to prevent the lighting from being turned off while the bathroom vanity 100 is in use, which is convenient. In addition, when the user frequently puts an object to be detected such as a hand into and out of the bowl portion 122 , it is possible to prevent the illumination portion 40 from turning on and off in synchronization with water spouting from the water spouting portion 20 . Therefore, it is possible to prevent the user from feeling uncomfortable due to frequent turning on and off of the illumination unit 40 .

Further, in the second embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, when the detection signal reaches or exceeds the first threshold TH1, the control unit 70 turns on the illumination unit 40, and the non-detection time NT is set to the predetermined time PT. , the illumination unit 40 may be turned off, and the non-detection time NT may be reset when the degree of change becomes equal to or greater than the second threshold TH2 before the non-detection time NT exceeds the predetermined time PT.

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-described 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, and the like of each element included in the bathroom vanity 100 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 thereof is also included in the scope of the present invention as long as it includes the features of the present invention.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 water faucet device 20 water spout 22 spout 30 main body 40 lighting unit 50 operation unit 50a operation lever 60 sensor 70 control unit 80 non-detection time measurement unit 85 detection time measurement unit 90 change degree calculation unit 100 bathroom vanity 102 washbasin 106 support base 106a main body 106b, 106c drawer 108 mirror cabinet 110 lighting device 122 bowl 124 back guard 130 cabinet body 131- 133 Door 131a-133a Mirror DT Detection time ET Extension time ET1-ET4 1st-4th extension time NT Non-detection time PT Predetermined time S101-S107, S201-S213, S301-S309, S401- S410 Step t101-t108, t201-t208, t301-t307, t401-t407 Timing T1 First time TH1, TH2 First and second thresholds WS Wall surface

Claims (5)

A bathroom vanity,
a water discharger for discharging water;
a bowl portion that receives water from the water discharge portion;
a lighting unit that illuminates at least one of the vicinity of the water discharge unit and the bowl unit;
a sensor that detects an object to be detected near the water discharge unit;
a non-detection time measurement unit that starts measuring the non-detection time when the sensor changes from the detection state to the non-detection state;
a control unit that switches between lighting and extinguishing of the lighting unit based on a detection signal from the sensor;
a degree-of-change calculation unit that calculates the degree of change of the detection signal;
with
The control unit
a first threshold for determining the detection state and the non-detection state;
a second threshold for determining the degree of change;
has
When the detection signal becomes equal to or greater than the first threshold , turning on the lighting unit,
When the non-detection time exceeds a predetermined time, turning off the lighting unit,
The bathroom vanity, wherein the non-detection time is reset when the degree of change becomes equal to or greater than the second threshold before the non-detection time exceeds the predetermined time. The control unit provides an extension time until the illumination unit is turned off after the predetermined time according to the number of times the sensor is in the detection state before the non-detection time exceeds the predetermined time. The bathroom vanity according to claim 1, characterized by: 3. The bathroom vanity according to claim 2, wherein when the number of times of detection exceeds a predetermined number of times, the control unit sets the extension time to a predetermined maximum time. A bathroom vanity,
a water discharger for discharging water;
a bowl portion that receives water from the water discharge portion;
a lighting unit that illuminates at least one of the vicinity of the water discharge unit and the bowl unit;
a sensor that detects an object to be detected near the water discharge unit;
a detection time measurement unit that starts measuring a detection time when the sensor enters a detection state, and starts measuring a non-detection time when the sensor changes from the detection state to a non-detection state;
a control unit that switches between lighting and extinguishing of the lighting unit based on a detection signal from the sensor;
with
The control unit
when the sensor is in the detection state, water discharge from the water discharge unit is started and the lighting unit is turned on;
when the sensor changes from the detection state to the non-detection state, stopping the water spouting;
When the non-detection time exceeds a predetermined time, turning off the lighting unit,
The bathroom vanity is characterized in that the length of time until the lighting unit is turned off after the sensor changes from the detection state to the non-detection state is changed according to the length of the detection time. Further comprising a degree-of-change calculation unit that calculates the degree of change of the detection signal,
The control unit
a first threshold for determining the detection state and the non-detection state;
a second threshold for determining the degree of change;
has
When the detection signal becomes equal to or greater than the first threshold, turning on the lighting unit,
5. The bathroom vanity according to claim 4 , wherein the non-detection time is reset when the degree of change becomes equal to or greater than the second threshold before the non-detection time exceeds the predetermined time.

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