JP7710658B2 - Toilet remote control device and toilet unit - Google Patents

Description

Aspects of the present invention generally relate to a toilet remote control device and a toilet unit.

A remote control device (aerial image display device) that displays an operating section (keypad surface) operated by a user as an aerial image is known (Patent Document 1).

JP 2020-134843 A

It is conceivable that such a remote control device would be used in a bathroom. For example, a paper holder for holding toilet paper may be provided around the remote control device. In such a case, if the user touches the air image when taking toilet paper, an unintended operation may be performed, which may make the remote control device less convenient to use.

The present invention was made based on the recognition of such problems, and aims to provide a toilet remote control device and toilet unit that can improve usability.

The first invention is a remote control device for a toilet located above a paper holder that holds toilet paper, the remote control device for a toilet is characterized in that it comprises a display device that displays an aerial image, a detection unit that detects operations on the aerial image, and a control unit that transmits a command signal based on the operations detected by the detection unit, and is configured such that at least a portion of the paper holder protrudes from the aerial image when viewed from a direction facing the aerial image.

This toilet remote control device can prevent accidental contact with the aerial image when removing toilet paper. As a result, erroneous operation of the remote control device can be prevented.

The second invention is a toilet remote control device according to the first invention, characterized in that the aerial image is projected at a position that does not overlap with the paper attachment axis of the paper holder when viewed from the direction facing the aerial image.

This toilet remote control device can effectively prevent accidental contact with the aerial image when removing toilet paper. As a result, erroneous operation of the remote control device can be more reliably prevented.

The third invention is a toilet remote control device according to the first or second invention, characterized in that the display device has a housing attached to a counter located to the side of the toilet, a display unit that is provided inside the housing and displays an image, and a plate that is provided in the housing and focuses the image displayed on the display unit as the aerial image, and the paper holder is attached to the bottom of the housing.

This toilet remote control device can prevent accidental operation of the remote control device when removing toilet paper. Also, since the paper holder and the toilet remote control device are located close to each other, usability can be improved.

The fourth invention is a remote control device for a toilet according to any one of the first to third inventions, characterized in that the control unit disables operations on the aerial image when seating on the toilet seat is not detected, and enables operations on the aerial image when seating on the toilet seat is detected.

This toilet remote control device can prevent the remote control device from being operated incorrectly before the user sits on the toilet seat.

The fifth invention is the fourth invention, wherein the display device displays the aerial image when it detects entry into the toilet room.

This toilet remote control device displays an aerial image when the user enters the toilet room, improving usability. It also reduces the power consumption of the toilet remote control device.

The sixth invention is the fifth invention, wherein the control unit enables operation of the aerial image when it detects that the user has left the toilet seat, until it detects that the user has left the toilet room.

This toilet remote control device allows you to, for example, flush the toilet after getting up from the toilet seat. As a result, it is a user-friendly toilet remote control device.

The seventh invention is a toilet unit comprising the paper holder, the toilet remote control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, a toilet device having a toilet bowl on which a toilet seat is placed, and a main body part provided on the toilet bowl and receiving a command signal transmitted from the toilet remote control device.

This toilet unit can reduce erroneous operation of the remote control device, improving usability. It also improves reliability in terms of hygiene.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a toilet remote control device and a toilet unit that can improve usability are provided.

1 is a perspective view showing a toilet room equipped with a toilet unit according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a communication system of the toilet device. FIG. 2 is a front view showing the positional relationship between the toilet and the remote control device. 1 is a side view showing the positional relationship between the toilet and the remote control device. FIG. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the viewing angle of an aerial image. FIG. 1 is a front view showing the viewing angle of the aerial image. FIG. 1 is a side view showing the viewing angle of an aerial image. 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which an aerial image is formed from a toilet remote control device. FIG. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an image displayed as an aerial image. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the housing of the toilet remote control device and the positional relationship between the aerial image and the paper holder. This is an enlarged view of the plate. This is an explanatory diagram of what happens when other aerial images are erased by using a light-shielding film. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of a case where the light-shielding film is rotated. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the time lapse from when a user who uses a toilet enters a room until when the user leaves the room. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the time lapse from the entry to the exit of a cleaner who cleans a toilet room. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the toilet remote control device.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, like components are designated by like reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a toilet room equipped with a toilet unit according to an embodiment.
1, the toilet unit 1 includes a toilet device 10, a cabinet 200, a paper holder 300, and a hand washing basin 400. The toilet device 10 includes a toilet bowl 11, a main body 13, and a toilet remote control device 30 (hereinafter referred to as the remote control device 30).

The toilet bowl 11 is attached, for example, to the floor surface FS of the toilet room TR. The toilet bowl 11 may also be attached to the wall behind the toilet bowl 11. The toilet bowl 11 may also be attached, for example, at a position away from the floor surface FS of the toilet room TR. The main body 13 is placed on top of the toilet bowl 11.

The main body 13 has a casing 14, and a toilet seat 15 and a toilet lid 17 that are rotatably supported on the casing 14. The toilet seat 15 is provided on top of the toilet bowl 11. The toilet lid 17 is provided on top of the toilet bowl 11 so as to cover the toilet seat 15. In Figure 1, the toilet seat 15 and toilet lid 17 are shown in the lowered state. Note that "up", "down", "front", "back", "left" and "right" refer to the directions as seen by a user sitting on the toilet seat 15 with the toilet lid 17 facing away from them.

The cabinet 200 is disposed in the toilet room TR. Specifically, the cabinet 200 is disposed to the side of the toilet bowl 11. The cabinet 200 is attached, for example, to either the left or right side wall SW of the toilet room TR. In this example, the cabinet 200 is attached to the right side wall SW of the toilet bowl 11. The cabinet 200 may also be attached to the left side wall of the toilet bowl 11.

A hand washing basin 400 is provided on the upper surface side of the counter 200a of the cabinet 200. The cabinet 200 is also provided with a remote control device 30 (described later), and a paper holder 300 is disposed below the remote control device 30.

The toilet room TR is provided with a door (not shown) for entering and exiting the toilet room TR. The door is provided, for example, on the front wall of the toilet room TR. The door may be provided on the side wall opposite the side wall SW on which the cabinet 200 of the toilet room TR is provided. The door is provided, for example, in a position that does not overlap with the toilet bowl 11 in the left-right direction.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a communication system of the toilet device.
The main body 13 has a human body detection sensor 20 that detects a user entering the toilet room TR, a seating detection sensor 21 that detects when the user is sitting on the toilet seat 15, a communication unit 23 that communicates with the remote control device 30, and a controller 25 that controls the communication unit 23.

The main body 13 also has various functional parts as necessary, such as a heated toilet seat function for heating the toilet seat 15, a private parts washing function for washing the private parts of a user seated on the toilet seat 15, a warm air function for drying the private parts, and a washing function for washing the toilet bowl 11. These functional parts are controlled by, for example, a controller 25. The functional parts of the main body 13 may be provided inside the toilet bowl 11.

The human body detection sensor 20 can detect a user present in the toilet room TR. In other words, the human body detection sensor 20 can detect a user who enters the toilet room and approaches the toilet bowl 11. As such a human body detection sensor 20, for example, a pyroelectric sensor, a microwave sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or a distance sensor (infrared projector sensor) can be used.

The human body detection sensor 20 transmits the presence or absence of a human body in the toilet room TR to the controller 25. Note that the human body detection sensor 20 only needs to be able to detect a user who has entered the toilet room TR, and may be provided, for example, in the cabinet 200.

The seating detection sensor 21 detects when a person sits on or leaves the toilet seat 15. The seating detection sensor 21 can be a microwave sensor, a distance sensor (infrared light projector sensor), an ultrasonic sensor, a tact switch, a capacitance switch (touch sensor), or a distortion sensor.

When using contact sensors such as a tactile switch, electrostatic sensor, or strain sensor, these contact sensors are provided on the toilet seat 15. When a user sits on the toilet seat 15, the tactile switch is pressed down by the user's weight. Alternatively, the user comes into contact with the electrostatic sensor. Alternatively, pressure is applied to the strain sensor by the user's weight. The electrical signals from these sensors can detect when the user sits down or leaves the seat.

The seating detection sensor 21 transmits the user's sitting on and leaving the toilet seat 15 to the controller 25. Note that the seating detection sensor 21 only needs to be able to detect the user sitting on and leaving the toilet seat 15, and if a microwave sensor or distance measuring sensor is used, it may be provided, for example, in the cabinet 200.

The communication unit 23 is connected to the controller 25. The communication unit 23 receives command signals transmitted from the remote control device 30. The communication unit 23 also transmits to the remote control device 30, for example, detection of entry into the toilet room TR by the human body detection sensor 20 and detection of sitting on and leaving the toilet seat 15 by the seating detection sensor 21.

The controller 25 controls various functional units provided in the main body 13. Various control programs for operating the functional units are stored in the controller 25. The controller 25 is connected to the human body detection sensor 20, the seating detection sensor 21, the communication unit 23, and the various functional units.

For example, when a human body detection signal is sent from the human body detection sensor 20, the controller 25 opens the toilet lid 17. The controller 25 also operates the functional units based on command signals sent from the remote control device 30. Furthermore, the controller 25 causes the communication unit 23 to transmit to the remote control device 30 the presence or absence of a human body in the toilet room TR and the presence or absence of a person sitting on the toilet seat 15.

FIG. 3 is a front view showing the positional relationship between the toilet and the remote control device.
FIG. 4 is a side view showing the positional relationship between the toilet and the remote control device.
The remote control device 30 is operated to activate the functional parts of the main body 13. The remote control device 30 may also turn on and off the lights in the toilet room TR, for example. The remote control device 30 is located above a paper holder 300 that holds toilet paper TP, and is provided on the underside of the counter 200a of the cabinet 200. The remote control device 30 may also be provided on a side wall SW of the toilet room TR.

The remote control device 30 is disposed above the toilet seat 15. As an example, if the height H1 from the floor surface FS to the top surface (seat surface) of the toilet seat 15 is 420 mm, then the height H2 of the remote control device 30 can be approximately 660 mm. As shown in FIG. 4, the remote control device 30 is located to the side of the toilet bowl 11 on which the toilet seat 15 is placed, with at least a portion of it disposed forward of the center O-O of the toilet seat opening 15a in the front-to-rear direction. In this example, the entire remote control device 30 is disposed forward of the center O-O of the toilet seat opening 15a in the front-to-rear direction. This allows the remote control device 30 to be located in a position that is easy for a user seated on the toilet seat 15 to operate.

Now, referring to Figures 3 and 4, we will explain the viewpoint distribution 500 of a user sitting on the toilet seat 15. The viewpoint distribution 500 is a distribution range that varies depending on the sitting height of the user sitting on the toilet seat 15, for example.

As shown in FIG. 3, the vertical range of the viewpoint distribution 500 can be a height H3 or more and a height H4 or less from the top surface (seat surface) of the toilet seat 15. As an example, if the height H1 from the floor surface FS to the toilet seat 15 is 420 mm, the height H3 can be 520 mm and the height H4 can be 1020 mm. The horizontal range of the viewpoint distribution 500 can be a distance L1 or more and a distance L2 or less from the surface of the remote control device 30 (surface of the cabinet 200). As an example, the distance L1 can be 280 mm and the distance L2 can be 410 mm. As shown in FIG. 4, the front-rear range of the viewpoint distribution 500 can be a distance L3 from the rear end of the remote control device 30. As an example, the distance L3 can be 250 mm.

FIG. 5 is a plan view showing the viewing angle of an aerial image.
FIG. 6 is a front view showing the viewing angle of the aerial image.
FIG. 7 is a side view showing the viewing angle of the aerial image.
Remote control device 30 displays guidance and operation switches related to the toilet room TR and toilet device 10 as aerial image 32. The range and direction of the viewing angle of aerial image 32 displayed by remote control device 30 is limited. Therefore, for example, if the viewing angle direction is set to the front side of remote control device 30, a user sitting on toilet seat 15 will not be able to view aerial image 32 unless he or she changes his or her position, which may result in poor usability of remote control device 30.

Therefore, the center line A-A of the viewing angle α at which the aerial image 32 can be viewed extends rearward from the aerial image 32 and passes above the toilet seat opening 15a. In other words, the center line A-A passes through the viewpoint distribution 500. In this case, it is preferable that the viewpoint distribution 500 is included within the viewing range 35 at which the aerial image 32 can be viewed. This allows a user seated on the toilet seat 15 to view the aerial image 32 without changing their posture.

Next, the configuration of the remote control device 30 will be described.
FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a state in which an aerial image is formed from the toilet remote control device.
Fig. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an image displayed in the aerial image. Fig. 9(a) and (b) show an example of a guide display displayed in the aerial image. Fig. 9(c) shows an example of an operation switch displayed in the aerial image.
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the housing of the toilet remote control device and the positional relationship between the aerial image and the paper holder.
Fig. 11 is an enlarged view of the plate, Fig. 11(a) is a perspective view of the plate, and Fig. 11(b) is a front view of the plate.

The remote control device 30 includes a display device 40 that displays the aerial image 32, a detection unit 50 that detects operations on the aerial image 32, and a control unit 60 that transmits a command signal to the main body unit 13 based on the operations detected by the detection unit 50.

The display device 40 has a housing 42, a display unit 44 provided inside the housing 42, and a plate 46 provided on the front side of the housing 42. The display device 40 also has a light-shielding film 48 that blocks light emitted from the display unit 44, and a rotating unit 49 that rotates the light-shielding film 48.

The housing 42 is fixed to the underside of the counter 200a of the cabinet 200. The display unit 44 is a display that displays images. The display unit 44 is connected to the control unit 60, and the display content is controlled by the control unit 60.

The image displayed on the display unit 44 is displayed as an aerial image 32. The aerial image 32 can be viewed within the viewing range 35. The images displayed on the display unit 44 include, for example, operation switches 32a for rear washing and bidet washing, as shown in FIG. 8, and guide displays 32b, 32c and a flush switch 32d for flushing the toilet, as shown in FIG. 9. The changes (timing) of the display content displayed on the aerial image 32 will be explained later.

The plate 46 is provided on the housing 42, located in front of the display unit 44. The plate 46 extends upward from the lower portion 42a of the housing 42, for example. The plate 46 focuses the image displayed on the display unit 44 as the aerial image 32. The distance from the display unit 44 to the plate 46 is equal to the distance from the aerial image 32 to the plate 46. The plate 46 has a number of vertical mirror portions 46a extending in the up-down direction, and a number of horizontal mirror portions 46b extending perpendicular to the vertical mirror portions 46a.

The plate 46 is formed with a large number of micro-sized gratings 46c formed by vertical mirror portions 46a and horizontal mirror portions 46b arranged in the vertical and horizontal directions when viewed from the front. The plate 46 projects the aerial image 32 by reconverging the diffused light from the display unit 44 with the vertical mirror portions 46a and horizontal mirror portions 46b. The plate 46 forms the aerial image 32 by utilizing retroreflection by the vertical mirror portions 46a and horizontal mirror portions 46b.

As shown in FIG. 11(a), the viewing angle α of the aerial image 32 is determined by the aspect ratio (B:C) of the thickness dimension B and height dimension C of the grid 46c and the distance between the display unit 44 and the plate 46. For example, the viewing angle α increases when the distance between the display unit 44 and the plate 46 is shortened. The viewing angle α is, for example, 18 degrees or more and 56 degrees or less with respect to the horizontal plane. The viewing angle α is, for example, 38 degrees. The viewing angle α is set according to the distance and positional relationship between the toilet 11 and the remote control device 30.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 11(b), the direction of center line A-A of viewing angle α of aerial image 32 is set by angle β between diagonal line D-D of grid 46c and vertical line E-E. Angle β is, for example, 25 degrees or more and 65 degrees or less. Angle β is, for example, 45 degrees. By setting angle β in this manner, center line A-A of viewing angle α can be directed diagonally upward and backward from aerial image 32 (see FIGS. 5 to 7).

As shown in FIG. 5, the center line A-A can be tilted backward by an angle γ when the remote control device 30 is viewed from the front. The angle γ is, for example, 15 degrees to 55 degrees. For example, when the angle β is 45 degrees, the angle γ is 35 degrees. This makes it possible to include the viewpoint distribution 500 of a user seated on the toilet seat 15 within the visible range 35 of the aerial image 32.

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram of a case where other aerial images are erased by using a light-shielding film.
FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of a case where the light-shielding film is rotated.
12 and 13 show schematic diagrams of trajectories of light emitted from any point on display unit 44. The aerial image is displayed in front of plate 46 by combining the light emitted from the entire surface of display unit 44.
Light-shielding film 48 is provided between display unit 44 and plate 46. Specifically, light-shielding film 48 is provided on the front side of display unit 44. Light-shielding film 48 transmits only light at a specific angle, thereby erasing visible ranges 36, 37 of other aerial images that are formed by plate 46 separately from aerial image 32. In other words, light-shielding film 48 controls the visible ranges 35-37 of the aerial images.

Light emitted from display unit 44 forms an image depending on the angle of incidence on plate 46. If light-shielding film 48 is not provided, when center line A-A of viewing angle α of aerial image 32 is directed backward (viewpoint distribution 500), another aerial image that can be viewed in viewing range 36 with center line A1-A1 of the viewing angle facing forward is displayed due to dispersion of light from display unit 44. This other aerial image is imaged in the same position as aerial image 32 and has the same display content as aerial image 32. In addition, a viewing range 37 is formed between viewing range 35 of aerial image 32 and viewing range 36 of the other aerial image. The other aerial image that can be viewed in viewing range 37 is a ghost image due to dispersion of light from display unit 44.

As shown in FIG. 12, the light-shielding film 48 transmits only the light emitted from the display unit 44 that is used to display the aerial image 32 visible in the visible range 35. Specifically, the light-shielding film 48 has a transparent resin 48a and a black resin 48b provided inside the transparent resin 48a. The light-shielding film 48 is a laminate of the transparent resin 48a and the black resin 48b. The transparent resin 48a is a portion through which light can pass. On the other hand, the black resin 48b is a portion through which light cannot pass.

As shown in FIG. 12, the black resin 48b is inclined from the rear to the front in a plan view. This allows the light projecting the aerial image 32 to pass through the transparent resin 48a located between adjacent black resins 48b. On the other hand, the light projecting other aerial images visible in the viewing ranges 36 and 37 is blocked by the black resin 48b.

The rotating unit 49 is provided, for example, below the light-shielding film 48. The rotating unit 49 rotates the light-shielding film 48. The rotating unit 49 is, for example, a motor, and is electrically connected to the rotation switch 70 via the control unit 60.

The rotation switch 70 is, for example, a contact switch, and is provided, for example, in the housing 42, as shown in FIG. 8. The rotation unit 49 can be operated by the rotation switch 70 provided, for example, in the housing 42. Note that the rotation unit 49 may be one that can be rotated mechanically by hand. The rotation switch 70 and the rotation unit 49 are provided as necessary.

The rotation unit 49 rotates the light-shielding film 48 so as to turn it upside down along the surface of the display unit 44. The light-shielding film 48 is in the first state when it is in the position shown in FIG. 12, in which the center line A-A of the viewing angle faces backward. When the light-shielding film 48 is in the first state, the viewable ranges 36, 37 of other aerial images that extend in a range separate from the viewable range 35 of the aerial image 32 are erased.

On the other hand, the second state of shading film 48 is the position shown in FIG. 13 where center line A1-A1 of the viewing angle faces forward. When shading film 48 is rotated from the first state to the second state by rotation unit 49, aerial image 32 and other aerial images visible in visible range 37 are erased, and other aerial images visible in visible range 36 are formed. When shading film 48 is in the second state, visible range 35 of aerial image 32, which extends to a range separate from visible range 36 of the other aerial images, and visible range 36 of the other aerial images are erased.

The rotating unit 49 can turn the light-shielding film 48, which is in the first state, upside down to change it from the first state to the second state. As shown in FIG. 13, when the light-shielding film 48 is in the second state, the black resin 48b is inclined from the front to the rear in a plan view. This allows light projecting other aerial images visible in the visible range 36 to pass through the transparent resin 48a located between adjacent black resins 48b. On the other hand, the light projecting the aerial image 32 visible in the visible range 35 and the other aerial images visible in the visible range 37 is blocked by the black resin 48b.

When the light-shielding film 48 is in the first state, the aerial image 32 can only be seen from above the toilet seat 15. If the aerial image 32 could only be seen from above the toilet seat 15, this could be inconvenient for, for example, a cleaner who cleans the toilet room TR.

The remote control device 30 is configured so that, by operating the rotation switch 70, the rotation section 49 can be actuated to change the light-shielding film 48 from the first state to the second state. This makes it possible to display another aerial image that can be viewed in the viewing range 36 in which the center line A1-A1 of the viewing angle faces forward. As a result, a cleaner or the like in front of the toilet 11 can view the other aerial image, which is the same image as the aerial image 32, from the viewing range 36.

Detection unit 50 is provided on the front side of housing 42. Detection unit 50 detects operations on aerial image 32 visible in viewing range 35 and other aerial images visible in viewing range 36. As shown in FIG. 10, detection range 50a of detection unit 50 faces aerial image 32 and other aerial images. Detection unit 50 is, for example, an infrared sensor, an electrostatic sensor, or a microwave sensor.

Detection unit 50 detects, for example, that a hand has touched operation switch 32a displayed on aerial image 32. Detection unit 50 is connected to control unit 60, and transmits operations on aerial image 32 to control unit 60. Note that, in this example, a case has been described in which detection unit 50 is provided in housing 42, but detection unit 50 only needs to be able to detect operations on aerial image 32 or other aerial images, and may be provided in, for example, cabinet 200.

The control unit 60 is provided, for example, inside the housing 42. The control unit 60 may be provided outside the housing 42. The control unit 60 is connected to the display unit 44, the rotation unit 49, the detection unit 50, the rotation switch 70, the start switch 72, and the communication unit 65. The control unit 60 stores various control programs that control the display unit 44, the communication unit 65, the rotation unit 49, and the like. A plurality of control units 60 may be provided for each control.

The start switch 72 is, for example, a contact switch, and is provided, for example, on the housing 42 (see FIG. 8). The start switch 72 is a switch that starts (ON/OFF) the remote control device 30. The start switch 72 may be a non-contact switch that uses, for example, an infrared sensor, an electrostatic sensor, or a microwave sensor.

Housing 42 may also be provided with a change switch 74 that changes the display of aerial image 32 visible in viewing range 35 and other aerial images visible in viewing range 36. Change switch 74 is a non-contact switch that uses, for example, an infrared sensor, an electrostatic sensor, or a microwave sensor. For example, the display of aerial image 32 can be changed by holding a hand in front of change switch 74 or moving it sideways. The function of change switch 74 may be included in detection unit 50. In such a case, the display content of aerial image 32 can be changed by sliding a hand over aerial image 32.

The control unit 60 changes the display content of the display unit 44 based on the state of the user and the operation of the remote control device 30 by the user. The control unit 60 also causes the communication unit 65 to transmit a command signal based on the operation detected by the detection unit 50. Furthermore, the control unit 60 operates the rotation unit 49 based on the command signal transmitted from the rotation switch 70. Note that these control processes may be performed by multiple control units.

Next, the positional relationship between the aerial image 32 and the paper holder 300 will be explained with reference to Figure 10.

The paper holder 300 holds the toilet paper TP and is located below the remote control device 30. Specifically, the paper holder 300 is attached to the lower part 42a of the housing 42 of the remote control device 30. The paper holder 300 may also be attached to the cabinet 200 or the side wall SW.

The paper holder 300 has an attachment part 301 that is attached to an attachment part such as the housing 42 or the cabinet 200, a cover part 302 that is rotatably attached to the attachment part 301, and a paper attachment shaft 303 that is provided on the attachment part 301 and to which the toilet paper TP is attached. The paper attachment shaft 303 extends in the front-to-rear direction of the toilet room TR.

As shown in FIG. 10, when viewed from direction F facing the aerial image 32, at least a portion of the paper holder 300 protrudes from the aerial image 32. In other words, when viewed from direction F facing the aerial image 32, the entire paper holder 300 is not hidden behind the aerial image 32.

Specifically, when viewed from the direction F facing the aerial image 32, the aerial image 32 is projected at a position that does not overlap the paper attachment axis 303 of the paper holder 300. In other words, the aerial image 32 is projected so as not to come into contact with the tangent line G-G of the paper attachment axis 303 that extends perpendicular to the extension line of the aerial image 32.

The position where the aerial image 32 is projected is determined by the distance between the display unit 44 and the plate 46. Therefore, the distance between the display unit 44 and the plate 46 is set so that the bottom end of the aerial image 32 does not come into contact with the tangent line G-G of the paper mounting axis 303.

This makes it possible to remove the aerial image 32 and other aerial images from the path of the user's hand movement when seated on the toilet seat 15 picks up the toilet paper TP. This therefore makes it possible to prevent the user seated on the toilet seat 15 from accidentally touching the operation switch 32a of the aerial image 32 when picking up the toilet paper TP.

Next, the operation control of the remote control device 30 executed from the time of entering the toilet room TR to the time of leaving the toilet room TR will be described.
FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the time lapse from the entry to the exit of a user who uses a toilet.

First, when the control unit 60 of the remote control device 30 receives a notification that a human body has been detected by the human body detection sensor 20, it causes the display unit 44 to display a notification display. This notification display is, for example, the guide display 32b shown in FIG. 9(a) or the guide display 32c shown in FIG. 9(b).

The notification display displayed on the display unit 44 is imaged by the plate 46 and projected as the aerial image 32. That is, the display device 40 projects the aerial image 32 when entry into the toilet room TR is detected.

As a result, when no human body is present in the toilet room TR, the aerial image 32 is not displayed, thereby reducing power consumption. The user can view the aerial image 32 (notification display) from the viewing range 35 before sitting on the toilet seat 15. Note that the aerial image 32 displayed upon entry detection may display a menu display such as the operation switch 32a shown in FIG. 8 or the flush switch 32d shown in FIG. 9(c) without displaying a notification display.

Next, when the control unit 60 receives a notification that the seating detection sensor 21 has detected a user sitting on the toilet seat 15, it changes the notification display on the display unit 44 to a menu display. The menu display may be, for example, an operation switch 32a for private parts washing as shown in FIG. 8, or a flush switch 32d as shown in FIG. 9(c). In other words, the menu display is a guide to the functions of the toilet room TR and a display of the operation switches. A user sitting on the toilet seat 15 can change the displayed operation switch 32a to the flush switch 32d by, for example, operating the change switch 74.

When the control unit 60 receives a signal that the seating detection sensor 21 has detected a person sitting on the toilet seat 15, it starts accepting operations on the aerial image 32 by the detection unit 50. That is, when the control unit 60 has not detected a person sitting on the toilet seat 15, it disables operations on the aerial image 32. On the other hand, when the control unit 60 has detected a person sitting on the toilet seat 15, it enables operations on the aerial image 32.

In this case, power may be applied to the detection unit 50 in response to detection of a user sitting on the toilet seat 15. The control unit 60 may also determine whether operation detection by the detection unit 50 is valid or invalid based on whether a user is sitting on the toilet seat 15. This makes it possible to prevent erroneous operation caused by touching the operation switch 32a or the flush switch 32d when the user is not sitting on the toilet seat 15, for example, in cases where a menu display for the operation switch 32a or the like is displayed after detection of a user's entry.

Here, remote control device 30 extends center line A-A of viewing angle α of aerial image 32 diagonally upward and backward from aerial image 32 toward viewpoint distribution 500 of a user seated on toilet seat 15. This allows a user seated on toilet seat 15 to view aerial image 32 without changing their posture.

When the user touches the operation switch 32a on the aerial image 32, the detection unit 50 detects the position of the user's fingers and transmits a detection signal based on the operated switch to the control unit 60. Based on the detection signal from the detection unit 50, the control unit 60 causes the communication unit 65 to transmit a command signal to the communication unit 23 of the main body unit 13. Based on the command signal transmitted from the remote control device 30, the controller 25 operates functional units such as local cleaning and toilet flushing.

For example, after washing the private parts, the user uses toilet paper TP, or uses the warm air function to dry the private parts. As shown in FIG. 10, the aerial image 32 is projected above the tangent line G-G of the paper attachment axis 303 of the paper holder 300. This prevents the user from accidentally touching the aerial image 32 (operation switch 32a) when reaching out toward the toilet paper TP. In this way, by setting the positional relationship between the aerial image 32 and the paper holder 300, it is possible to prevent malfunction of the functional unit.

When the user leaves the toilet seat 15, the seat detection sensor 21 transmits the seat removal detection to the controller 25. The controller 25 transmits the seat removal notification to the communication unit 65 of the remote control device 30. In this case, even if the control unit 60 of the remote control device 30 receives the seat removal notification from the seat detection sensor 21, it continues to display the aerial image 32 (menu display) and to detect operations on the aerial image 32 by the detection unit 50 while the human body detection sensor 20 is detecting a human body.

The human body detection sensor 20 monitors entry and exit to the toilet room TR by detecting the presence or absence of a human body in the toilet room TR. Therefore, when the control unit 60 detects that a person has left the toilet seat 15, it enables operation of the aerial image 32 until it detects that the person has left the toilet room TR. This makes it possible to prevent the remote control device 30 from becoming unable to be operated, for example, when flushing the toilet after leaving the toilet seat 15, making it easy to use.

When the control unit 60 recognizes that the user has left the toilet room TR, it erases the display on the display unit 44 and disables (terminates) the acceptance of operations by the detection unit 50. This allows the remote control device 30 to save power.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the time lapse from the entry to the exit of a cleaner who cleans a toilet.
If operation of the remote control device 30 is accepted by the person sitting on the toilet seat 15, there is a risk that the remote control device 30 will be inconvenient for the cleaner to use. Therefore, the remote control device 30 is designed to enable and disable operation acceptance and change the display content without the cleaner sitting on the toilet seat 15.

As shown in FIG. 15, when the control unit 60 of the remote control device 30 receives a notification that a human body has been detected by the human body detection sensor 20, it causes the display unit 44 to display a notification display. This notification display is, for example, the guide display 32b shown in FIG. 9(a) or the guide display 32c shown in FIG. 9(b). The control unit 60 also enables detection by the change switch 74.

The notification display displayed on the display unit 44 is imaged by the plate 46 and projected as the aerial image 32. In this case, the center line A-A of the viewing angle α of the aerial image 32 faces backward. The cleaner can then rotate the light-shielding film 48 from the first state to the second state by operating the rotation switch 70. This allows the remote control device 30 to display another aerial image that can be viewed in the viewing range 36 in which the center line A1-A1 of the viewing angle faces forward, as shown in FIG. 13. As a result, the cleaner can view another aerial image with the same display content as the aerial image 32 from the viewing range 36 located in front of the toilet bowl 11.

Next, when the control unit 60 detects that the start switch 72 or the change switch 74 has been operated, it changes the notification display of other aerial images visible in the viewing range 36 to a menu display. The start switch 72 is, for example, a contact-type switch such as a push button. On the other hand, the change switch 74 is a non-contact switch that is switched from operation OFF to operation ON by waving a hand forward (gesture). It is sufficient that at least one of the start switch 72 and the change switch 74 is provided. Furthermore, when the control unit 60 detects that the start switch 72 or the change switch 74 has been operated, it changes the acceptance of operations by the detection unit 50 for other aerial images from disabled to enabled.

When the control unit 60 detects that the detection unit 50 has touched the switch 32d that displays another aerial image, it transmits a command signal to the communication unit 23 of the main body unit 13. Then, when the controller 25 receives the command signal, it executes a toilet flush.

The control unit 60 displays a menu of other aerial images visible within the viewing range 36 until a predetermined time has elapsed since the start switch 72 or the change switch 74 was operated, and also enables the detection unit 50 to accept operations. When a predetermined time has elapsed since the start switch 72 or the change switch 74 was operated, the control unit 60 erases the display on the display unit 44, thereby erasing the other aerial images.

In addition, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start switch 72 or the change switch 74 was operated, the control unit 60 changes the operation acceptance (operation detection) by the detection unit 50 from valid to invalid. This predetermined time is about several tens of seconds (for example, about 30 seconds).

This prevents the cleaner from accidentally operating the remote control when cleaning (maintaining) the toilet room TR. The display of the aerial image 32 and other aerial images and the presence or absence of detection by the detection unit 50 are not limited to the passage of a predetermined time, and may be controlled, for example, by the start switch 72 or change switch 74.

When the cleaner wishes to flush the toilet bowl while cleaning the toilet room TR, the cleaner can operate the start switch 72 or change switch 74 to display other aerial images visible within the viewing range 36 and enable the detection unit 50 to accept operations.

When the cleaner has finished cleaning the toilet room TR, the cleaner can return the light-shielding film 48 from the second state to the first state by operating the rotation switch 70. Then, when the human body detection sensor 20 detects that the cleaner has left the room, the control unit 60 erases the display on the display unit 44 and disables the operation acceptance (operation detection) of the detection unit 50.

In the above description, the light-shielding film 48 is rotated from the second state to the first state by operating the rotation switch 70. However, for example, when the human body detection sensor 20 detects that a cleaner has left the room, the control unit 60 may automatically operate the rotation unit 49 to rotate the light-shielding film 48 from the second state to the first state.

In this way, the remote control device 30 can be made easy to use not only for users who use the toilet 11, but also for cleaners who clean and maintain the toilet room TR. In particular, users who use the toilet 11 can operate the functional parts by operating the aerial image 32 without touching the remote control device 30, improving reliability in terms of hygiene.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of a toilet remote control device.
In the above-described embodiment, the light-shielding film 48 is provided on the front side of the display unit 44. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the light-shielding film 80 and the rotating unit 81 may be provided on the back side of the plate 46, as in the modified example shown in FIG.

In the above-described embodiment, an example was described in which the detections by the human body detection sensor 20 and the seating detection sensor were transmitted from the communication unit 23 of the main body 13 to the remote control device 30. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, if the human body detection sensor and the seating detection sensor are provided in the cabinet 200, a signal may be transmitted to the remote control device 30 from a communication unit provided in the cabinet 200, etc.

In the above-described embodiment, the display unit 44 is a display whose display content changes. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the display unit may only display a number of operation switches that operate the functional unit. The display unit does not have to be a display, as long as the display content can be reflected by the plate.

In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the other aerial images visible in the viewing range 36 and the other aerial images visible in the viewing range 37 (ghost images) are erased when the light-shielding film 48 is in the first state, and the aerial image 32 visible in the viewing range 35 and the other aerial images visible in the viewing range 37 (ghost images) are erased when the light-shielding film 48 is in the second state. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, only the other aerial images, which are ghost images, may be erased by the light-shielding film. In such a case, the rotating unit 49 is unnecessary.

In the above embodiment, an example was described in which after sitting on the toilet seat 15, the menu is displayed and the detection unit 50 accepts operations until the user leaves the toilet room TR, even if the user leaves the toilet seat 15. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the menu may be displayed and operations may be accepted only when the user is sitting on the toilet seat 15. Furthermore, when the user leaves the toilet seat 15, the menu may be displayed and operations may be accepted until a predetermined time has elapsed.

In the above embodiment, the light-shielding film 48 is rotated by the rotation switch 70. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the light-shielding film 48 may be rotated automatically. For example, the rotation unit 49 may place the light-shielding film 48 in the second state when the toilet seat 15 is not detected as being seated, and may place the light-shielding film 48 in the first state when the toilet seat 15 is detected as being seated.

As a result, when a user, cleaner, or the like enters the toilet room TR, the user can view another aerial image from the viewing range 36 while approaching the toilet bowl 11. Also, when the user sits on the toilet seat 15, the light-shielding film 48 is automatically rotated to the first state, allowing the user seated on the toilet seat 15 to view the aerial image 32. This makes the remote control device 30 easy to use.

In the above embodiment, the remote control device 30 is attached to the counter 200a of the cabinet 200. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the remote control device 30 may be attached to a counter provided on the side wall SW, for example.

The above describes the embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Any design modifications made by a person skilled in the art to the above-mentioned embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, material, arrangement, etc. of each element of the toilet remote control device and toilet unit are not limited to those exemplified, and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, each element of the above-mentioned embodiments can be combined to the extent technically possible, and such combinations are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention.

LIST OF SYMBOLS 1 toilet unit 10 toilet device 11 toilet bowl 13 main body 14 casing 15 toilet seat 15a toilet seat opening 17 toilet lid 20 human body detection sensor 21 seating detection sensor 23 communication unit 25 controller 30 toilet remote control device 32 aerial image 32a operation switch 32b, 32c guide display 32d flush switch 35 visible range of aerial image 32 36 visible range of other aerial images 37 visible range of other aerial images (ghost images) 40 display device 42 housing 42a lower part 44 display unit 46 plate 46a vertical mirror section 46b horizontal mirror section 46c grid 48 light-shielding film 48a transparent resin 48b black resin 49 rotation section 50 detection section 50a detection range 60 control section 65 Communication unit 70 Rotation switch 72 Start switch 74 Change switch 80 Light-shielding film 81 Rotation unit 200 Cabinet 200a Counter 300 Paper holder 301 Mounting unit 302 Cover unit 303 Paper mounting axis 400 Hand basin 500 Viewpoint distribution A-A, A1-A1 Center line D-D Diagonal E-E Plumbing line FS Floor surface G-G Tangent O-O Center SW Side wall TP Toilet paper TR Toilet room α Viewing angle β Subtended angle γ Angle

Claims (8)

In a toilet remote control device located above a paper holder that holds toilet paper,
A display device that displays aerial images;
A detection unit that detects an operation on the aerial image;
A control unit that transmits a command signal based on the operation detected by the detection unit;
Equipped with
When viewed from a direction facing the aerial image, at least a portion of the paper holder protrudes from the aerial image,
A toilet remote control device, characterized in that , when viewed from the side, the aerial image is projected forward of a mounting axis of the paper holder and above a tangent to the mounting axis . The control unit is
When the seating on the toilet seat is not detected, the operation on the aerial image is invalidated;
The toilet remote control device according to claim 1 , wherein, when a person is detected as sitting on the toilet seat, an operation on the aerial image is enabled. The toilet remote control device according to claim 2 , wherein the display device displays the aerial image when it detects entry into the toilet room. The control unit is
The toilet remote control device according to claim 3 , wherein, when it is detected that the user has left the toilet seat, operations on the aerial image are enabled until it is detected that the user has left the toilet room. In a toilet remote control device located above a paper holder that holds toilet paper,
A display device that displays aerial images;
A detection unit that detects an operation on the aerial image;
A control unit that transmits a command signal based on the operation detected by the detection unit;
Equipped with
When viewed from a direction facing the aerial image, at least a portion of the paper holder protrudes from the aerial image,
The display device displays the aerial image when detecting entry into the toilet room,
The control unit is
When the seating on the toilet seat is not detected, the operation on the aerial image is invalidated;
When the sitting on the toilet seat is detected, the operation on the aerial image is enabled;
A toilet remote control device, characterized in that, when it is detected that the person has left the toilet seat, operation of the aerial image is enabled until it is detected that the person has left the toilet room . The toilet remote control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, when viewed from a direction facing the aerial image, the aerial image is projected at a position that does not overlap with a paper attachment axis of the paper holder. The display device includes:
A housing provided on a counter located to the side of the toilet bowl;
A display unit that is provided inside the housing and displays an image;
a plate that is provided in the housing and that images the image displayed on the display unit as the aerial image;
having
The toilet remote control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , characterized in that the paper holder is attached to a lower part of the housing. A paper holder;
A toilet device comprising: the toilet remote control device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 ; a toilet bowl on which a toilet seat is placed; and a main body portion provided on the toilet bowl and configured to receive a command signal transmitted from the toilet remote control device;
A toilet unit comprising: