CN110552406B

CN110552406B - Sanitary washing device

Info

Publication number: CN110552406B
Application number: CN201910462032.6A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 矢冈寿成; 佐藤稔; 田代启介; 松本勘; 神田祥吾; 诸富洋
Original assignee: Toto Ltd
Current assignee: Toto Ltd
Priority date: 2018-06-01
Filing date: 2019-05-30
Publication date: 2022-02-08
Anticipated expiration: 2039-05-30
Also published as: TW202003974A; TWI753249B; KR20190137685A; JP2019210802A; KR102193396B1; CN110552406A; JP7398039B2

Abstract

The invention relates to a sanitary washing device, which can inhibit dirt in the area that can be visually confirmed by the user when a nozzle cover is opened. The sanitary washing device comprises: a private parts washing nozzle which is inclined downward toward the front side and has a water discharge hole for discharging washing water toward the private parts of the user; a driving device for extending and retracting the local washing nozzle; a housing having a nozzle housing portion capable of housing the entire private parts washing nozzle in a state where the private parts washing nozzle is retracted; and an illumination unit that irradiates sterilizing light, which is light having a sterilizing effect, wherein the illumination unit irradiates the sterilizing light to at least a portion of a front surface of the private parts washing nozzle and a bottom surface of the nozzle housing portion, the portion being located below the front surface.

Description

Sanitary washing device

Technical Field

Aspects of the present invention generally relate to a sanitary washing apparatus.

Background

Patent document 1 discloses a sanitary washing apparatus provided with a private part washing nozzle. In this sanitary washing apparatus, in order to remove dirt adhering to the private parts washing nozzle, the private parts washing nozzle is sprayed with washing water and irradiated with UV light having a sterilizing action.

Patent document 1: japanese patent laid-open publication No. 2013-83141

According to the technique disclosed in patent document 1, the dirt on the private parts cleaning nozzle can be suppressed. Patent document 1 discloses a spot irradiated with UV light from above the private parts washing nozzle, not only to the private parts washing nozzle, but also to the peripheral portion thereof. However, since the private parts washing nozzle is disposed obliquely, even if UV light is irradiated from above the private parts washing nozzle, the upper portion of the private parts washing nozzle becomes a backlight, and the UV light is not irradiated to the nozzle housing portion located below the private parts washing nozzle on the front surface of the private parts washing nozzle. Therefore, the technique of patent document 1 cannot sufficiently suppress the fouling of the nozzle housing portion.

The dirt in the nozzle storage portion is dirt generated by adhesion of feces and urine; and visible dirt generated by bacteria and mold floating in the toilet space adhering to and growing in the water adhering to the nozzle housing part due to local washing, self-cleaning of the nozzle, and the like. When the user opens the nozzle cover during cleaning of the sanitary washing apparatus or when the nozzle is extended during cleaning of the nozzle, the nozzle cover is opened and the nozzle housing portion can be visually observed. If the user recognizes that bacteria or mold are attached to the nozzle housing portion, the user may feel uncomfortable with the cleanliness of the private parts washing nozzle even if the private parts washing nozzle itself is clean. As a result, users with high cleaning awareness may not use the private parts washing nozzle.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a sanitary washing apparatus capable of suppressing dirt in an area that can be visually recognized by a user when a nozzle cover is opened.

A first aspect of the present invention is a sanitary washing apparatus including: a private parts washing nozzle which is inclined downward toward the front side and has a water discharge hole for discharging washing water toward the private parts of the user; a driving device for extending and retracting the local washing nozzle; a housing having a nozzle housing portion capable of housing the entire private parts washing nozzle in a state where the private parts washing nozzle is retracted; and an illuminating unit that irradiates sterilizing light, which is light having a sterilizing effect, wherein the illuminating unit irradiates the sterilizing light to at least a portion of a front surface of the private parts washing nozzle and a bottom surface of the nozzle housing, the portion being located below the front surface.

According to the sanitary washing apparatus, the sterilizing light is irradiated from the light irradiation section to the front surface of the private parts washing nozzle and the portion of the bottom surface of the nozzle housing portion which is located below the front surface. These regions are visually recognizable regions that can be visually observed by the user, and the adhesion of dirt to the private parts washing nozzle and the visually recognizable regions in the nozzle housing portion can be suppressed by the irradiation of the sterilizing light. This makes it possible for the user to recognize that the private parts washing nozzle is clean and that the nozzle housing portion housing the private parts washing nozzle is also clean. Therefore, even a user with high cleaning awareness can use the private parts washing nozzle with ease.

A second aspect of the present invention is the sanitary washing apparatus according to the first aspect, wherein the illumination unit is configured such that an average illuminance of the sterilizing light on the front surface and a portion of the nozzle housing unit located on a front side of the front surface is larger than an average illuminance of the sterilizing light on an outer peripheral surface of the private parts washing nozzle.

According to this sanitary washing apparatus, the sterilizing light is mainly irradiated to the private parts washing nozzle and the visually recognizable area of the nozzle housing portion. Therefore, the dirt is less likely to adhere to the visually recognizable region having a high requirement for cleanness. In recent years, a sanitary washing apparatus is desired to be downsized to improve design. By making the average illuminance on the outer peripheral surface of the private parts washing nozzle smaller than the visible region of the nozzle housing, unnecessary irradiation of the sterilizing light can be suppressed, and the power applied to the irradiation section can be reduced. When the power is reduced, the heat generation of the illumination unit is reduced. This makes it possible to reduce the size of the illumination unit, such as a heat sink that dissipates heat from the illumination unit. As a result, the sanitary washing apparatus can be downsized.

A third aspect of the present invention is the sanitary washing apparatus according to the first or second aspect, wherein the sterilizing light is configured to irradiate a portion of the front surface and the nozzle housing portion located on a front side of the front surface over a wider range than the sterilizing light irradiates the outer peripheral surface of the private parts washing nozzle.

According to this sanitary washing apparatus, the sterilizing light is mainly irradiated to the visually recognizable area of the nozzle housing portion. Therefore, the dirt is less likely to adhere to the visually recognizable region having a high requirement for cleanness. In recent years, a sanitary washing apparatus is desired to be downsized to improve design. By making the average illuminance on the outer peripheral surface of the private parts washing nozzle smaller than the visible region of the nozzle housing, unnecessary irradiation of the sterilizing light can be suppressed, and the power applied to the irradiation section can be reduced. When the power is reduced, the heat generation of the illumination unit is reduced. This makes it possible to reduce the size of the illumination unit, such as a heat sink that dissipates heat from the illumination unit. As a result, the sanitary washing apparatus can be downsized.

A fourth aspect of the invention is the sanitary washing apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects of the invention, further comprising a nozzle cover which is provided so as to be openable and closable with respect to an opening provided at a front end of the nozzle housing, and which is provided so as to open the inside of the nozzle housing in a state in which the private parts washing nozzle is extended, and close the inside of the nozzle housing in a state in which the entire private parts washing nozzle is housed in the housing, wherein at least a part of a rear surface of the nozzle cover on the side of the nozzle housing is formed of a reflective material, and the light irradiation section directly irradiates at least a part of the sterilizing light to the rear surface of the nozzle cover in the state in which the nozzle cover is closed.

According to this sanitary washing apparatus, since the sterilizing light is directly irradiated to the back surface of the nozzle cover, it is possible to suppress adhesion of dirt on the back surface of the nozzle cover. The back surface of the nozzle cover faces a wide range of the region where the private parts washing nozzle and the nozzle housing can be visually confirmed. By forming the rear surface with a reflective material, the sterilized light reflected by the rear surface is irradiated over a wide range of the visually recognizable area. Thus, even if the illumination unit is miniaturized, the sterilization light can be irradiated over a wide range of the visible region.

A fifth aspect of the present invention is the sanitary washing apparatus according to the fourth aspect, wherein the irradiation range of the sterilizing light directly irradiated to the rear surface of the nozzle cover is wider than the irradiation range of the sterilizing light directly irradiated to a portion other than the rear surface of the nozzle cover.

According to the sanitary washing apparatus, the irradiation range of the sterilizing light directly irradiated to the back surface of the nozzle cover can be increased. Thus, the sterilizing light reflected by the back surface of the nozzle cover can be irradiated to a wider range of the visible region.

A sixth aspect of the invention provides the sanitary washing apparatus according to the fourth or fifth aspect of the invention, wherein the sterilizing light includes reflected light reflected by the nozzle cover and direct light not reflected by the nozzle cover, and the illumination portion is disposed at a position where the direct light is irradiated to a front end portion of the bottom surface portion of the nozzle housing.

The present inventors have found that: the residual water in the nozzle housing is likely to be generated at the tip portion of the bottom surface of the nozzle housing, and the tip portion is most likely to be contaminated. According to this sanitary washing apparatus, direct light having a strong sterilizing power can be irradiated to the tip portion where dirt is most likely to be generated in the visually recognizable area, and generation of germs and mold at the tip portion can be suppressed.

A seventh aspect of the invention is the sanitary washing apparatus according to the sixth aspect of the invention, wherein the illumination portion is arranged to illuminate the direct light and the reflected light with respect to the front end portion of the bottom surface portion.

According to this sanitary washing apparatus, both direct light and reflected light are irradiated to the front end portion of the bottom surface portion where dirt is most likely to be generated. Therefore, the generation of germs and mold can be further suppressed even in the region where the residual water is likely to be generated in the visually recognizable region.

An eighth aspect of the invention provides the sanitary washing apparatus according to any one of the fourth to seventh aspects of the invention, wherein a back surface of the nozzle cover is formed in a curved surface shape so as to diffuse reflected light.

According to this sanitary washing apparatus, the sterilizing light reflected by the back surface can be diffused more than in the case where the back surface of the nozzle cover is flat, and the sterilizing light can be irradiated over a wider range of the visually recognizable area.

A ninth aspect of the invention is the sanitary washing apparatus according to any one of the fourth to eighth aspects of the invention, wherein a nozzle washing section having a nozzle washing hole for discharging washing water to an outer surface of the private parts washing nozzle is provided at a tip end portion of the private parts washing nozzle, and the nozzle washing section is formed of a transmissive material that transmits the sterilizing light.

According to this sanitary washing apparatus, the sterilizing light L transmitted through the nozzle washing section is irradiated to the gap between the private parts washing nozzle and the nozzle washing section, and the visually recognizable area located in the backlight with respect to the irradiated portion. This makes it possible to irradiate the sterilization light over a wider range of the visually recognizable region.

A tenth aspect of the present invention is the sanitary washing apparatus according to the ninth aspect of the present invention, wherein the nozzle washing portion is configured such that the sterilizing light is diffused when transmitted, and at least a part of the nozzle washing portion is disposed forward of the front surface of the private parts washing nozzle in a state where the entire private parts washing nozzle is accommodated in the accommodating portion.

According to the sanitary washing apparatus, the nozzle washing portion having the light diffusion function is disposed at a position forward of the front surface of the private part washing nozzle, and thereby the sterilizing light can reach a wider range of the visible region by the light diffusion function of the nozzle washing portion.

An eleventh aspect of the invention is the sanitary washing apparatus according to the tenth aspect of the invention, wherein the nozzle washing unit is moved while the illumination unit is operated.

According to the sanitary washing apparatus, the diffusion direction of light by the nozzle washing portion can be changed by moving the nozzle washing portion in a state where the irradiation portion is operated. This makes it possible to irradiate the sterilization light over a wider range of the visually recognizable region.

A twelfth aspect of the invention provides the sanitary washing apparatus according to the eleventh aspect of the invention, wherein the nozzle washing unit is moved without opening the nozzle cover in a state where the illumination unit is operated.

According to this sanitary washing apparatus, the nozzle washing portion is moved so that the nozzle cover is not opened. By not opening the nozzle cover during the operation of the illumination section, the leakage of the sterilization light to the outside of the housing can be suppressed. Thus, the sterilization light can be irradiated over a wider range of the visually recognizable region while improving the safety of the user.

According to the aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a sanitary washing apparatus capable of suppressing dirt in an area that a user can visually recognize when opening a nozzle cover.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing a toilet bowl including a sanitary washing device according to an embodiment.

Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of main parts of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Fig. 3 is a sectional view showing the periphery of a private part washing nozzle of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Fig. 4 is a plan view showing an internal structure of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing a nozzle housing part of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Fig. 6 is a sectional view showing the periphery of a private part washing nozzle of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Fig. 7 is a sectional view showing the periphery of a private part washing nozzle of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Fig. 8 is a front view showing the periphery of the private parts washing nozzle of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Fig. 9 is a sectional view showing an example of the periphery of the private parts washing nozzle of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Fig. 10 is a sectional view showing another example of the periphery of the private parts washing nozzle of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Fig. 11 is a plan view showing a modification of the illumination unit of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Fig. 12 is a sectional view showing a modification of the nozzle washing unit of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Fig. 13 is a perspective view showing a modification of the nozzle washing unit of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Fig. 14 is a front view showing a modification of the nozzle washing unit of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Fig. 15 is a graph showing an example of the wavelength distribution of the sterilizing light of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Fig. 16 is a time chart illustrating a specific example of the operation of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Fig. 17 is a sectional view showing the periphery of a private parts washing nozzle of a sanitary washing apparatus according to another embodiment.

Fig. 18 is a sectional view showing the periphery of a private parts washing nozzle of a sanitary washing apparatus according to another embodiment.

Fig. 19 is a sectional view showing the periphery of a private parts washing nozzle of a sanitary washing apparatus according to another embodiment.

Fig. 20 is a plan view showing the periphery of a private parts washing nozzle of a sanitary washing apparatus according to another embodiment.

Fig. 21 is a sectional view showing the periphery of a private parts washing nozzle of a sanitary washing apparatus according to another embodiment.

Fig. 22 is a sectional view showing the periphery of a private parts washing nozzle of a sanitary washing apparatus according to another embodiment.

Description of reference numerals:

10 … water supply source; 20 … water guide part; 21 … buttocks washing flow path; 22 … softening the washing flow path; 23 … female wash circuit; 24 … surface cleaning flow path; 25 … spray flow path; 100. 100a … sanitary washing device; 200 … toilet seat; 300 … cover for closet; 310 … through the window; 400 … a housing; 401 … power supply circuit; 403 … body sensors; 404 … seating sensor; 405 … a control unit; 407 … exhaust port; 408 … discharge port; 409 … concave part; 431 … solenoid valve; 432 … pressure regulating valve; 433 … check valve; 440 … heat exchanger unit; 442 … flow sensor; a 450 … cell unit; 452 … vacuum interrupters; 454 … a pressure modulation section; 471 … a flow rate adjusting part; 472 … flow path switching part; 473 … topical washing nozzle; 473a … front surface; 473b … outer circumferential surface; 474a … washing spitting nozzle for female; 474b … buttocks washing spit-out port; 476 … nozzle motor; 478 … nozzle washing part; 478a … water discharge part; 478b … support; 479 … spray nozzles; 480 … nozzle receiving part; 480a … transmissive portion; 480b … bottom surface portion; section 480c …; 480d … front end portion; 481 … opening; 482 … nozzle support portion; 500 … an operation part; 600 … nozzle cap; 600a … back; 700 … lighting part; 710 … a light emitting portion; 720 … light emitting element; 730 … optical fiber; 740 … reflection part; 750 … a light guide member; 800 … toilet bowl; 801 … basin; a1 … arrow; l … sterilizing light; R1-R3 … regions; time t 0-t 7 …; TM 1-TM 3 … define time.

Detailed Description

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

As shown in fig. 1, the toilet includes a toilet bowl (hereinafter simply referred to as "toilet" for convenience of description) 800 and a sanitary washing apparatus 100 provided thereon. The sanitary washing apparatus 100 includes a housing 400, a toilet seat 200, and a toilet lid 300. The toilet seat 200 and the toilet cover 300 are pivotally supported to be openable and closable with respect to the casing 400.

The body washing functional unit for washing the "buttocks" of the user sitting on the toilet seat 200 is built in the casing 400. Further, for example, a seating sensor 404 is provided in the housing 400, and the seating sensor 404 detects seating of the user on the toilet seat 200. When the seating sensor 404 detects a user sitting on the toilet seat 200, the user can extend or retract the private parts washing nozzle (hereinafter simply referred to as "nozzle" for convenience of description) 473 into or from the bowl 801 of the toilet 800 by operating the operation unit 500 (see fig. 2) such as a remote controller. In the sanitary washing apparatus 100 shown in fig. 1, the nozzle 473 is shown in a state of protruding into the basin 801.

The nozzle 473 discharges water (wash water) toward the human body private parts to wash the human body private parts. A female wash water spouting port 474a and a hip wash water spouting port 474b are provided at the tip of the nozzle 473. The nozzle 473 can spray water from the female cleansing water discharge port 474a provided at the tip thereof to wash the private parts of the female seated on the toilet seat 200. Alternatively, the nozzle 473 can spray water from the hip washing water discharge port 474b provided at the tip thereof to wash the "hip" of the user seated in the toilet seat 200. In this specification, the term "water" includes not only cold water but also heated hot water.

The "buttocks washing" mode includes, for example, "buttocks washing" and "gentle washing" in which washing is performed gently with a water flow softer than the "buttocks washing". The nozzle 473 can execute, for example, "washing for women", "washing for buttocks", and "soft washing".

In the nozzle 473 shown in fig. 1, the female wash water discharge port 474a is provided on the tip side of the nozzle 473 relative to the hip wash water discharge port 474b, but the positions of the female wash water discharge port 474a and the hip wash water discharge port 474b are not limited to this. The female wash water spouting port 474a may be provided on the rear end side of the nozzle 473 with respect to the hip wash water spouting port 474 b. In addition, although the nozzle 473 shown in fig. 1 is provided with 2 water discharge ports, 3 or more water discharge ports may be provided.

Fig. 2 shows the main part of the waterway system and the electric system.

As shown in fig. 2, the sanitary washing apparatus 100 includes a water guide 20. The water guide 20 has a pipe line 20a from the water supply source 10 such as a tap water pipe or a water tank to the nozzle 473. The water guide 20 guides water supplied from the water supply source 10 to the nozzle 473 through the pipe 20 a. The conduit 20a is formed of, for example, each part such as the solenoid valve 431, the heat exchanger unit 440, and the flow path switching part 472, which will be described below, and a plurality of pipes connecting these parts.

A solenoid valve 431 is provided upstream of the water conduit 20. The solenoid valve 431 is an openable and closable solenoid valve, and controls the supply of water based on a command from the control unit 405 provided inside the housing 400. In other words, the solenoid valve 431 opens and closes the pipe line 20 a. By putting the solenoid valve 431 in an open state, water supplied from the water supply source 10 is caused to flow in the pipe 20 a.

A pressure regulating valve 432 is provided downstream of the solenoid valve 431. When the supply water pressure is high, the pressure regulating valve 432 regulates the pressure in the pipe line 20a to a predetermined pressure range. A check valve 433 is provided downstream of the pressure regulating valve 432. The check valve 433 restrains the water from flowing backward upstream of the check valve 433, for example, when the pressure in the conduit 20a is reduced.

A heat exchanger unit 440 (heating unit) is provided downstream of the check valve 433. The heat exchanger unit 440 includes a heater, and heats water supplied from the water supply source 10 to, for example, a predetermined temperature. That is, the heat exchanger unit 440 generates warm water.

The heat exchanger unit 440 is, for example, a transient heating type (transient type) heat exchanger using a ceramic heater or the like. The instantaneous heating heat exchanger can raise the temperature of water to a predetermined temperature in a shorter time than a hot-water storage heating heat exchanger using a hot-water storage tank. The heat exchanger unit 440 is not limited to the instantaneous heating heat exchanger, and may be a hot-water heating heat exchanger. The heating unit is not limited to the heat exchanger, and may be a structure using another heating method such as a structure using microwave heating.

The heat exchanger unit 440 is connected to the control unit 405. The controller 405, for example, heats the water to the temperature set by the operation unit 500 by controlling the heat exchanger unit 440 according to the user's operation of the operation unit 500.

A flow sensor 442 is provided downstream of the heat exchanger unit 440. The flow rate sensor 442 detects the flow rate of water discharged from the heat exchanger unit 440. That is, the flow rate sensor 442 detects the flow rate of the water flowing through the pipe line 20 a. The flow rate sensor 442 is connected to the controller 405. The flow rate sensor 442 inputs the detection result of the flow rate to the control unit 405.

An electrolyzer unit 450 is provided downstream of the flow sensor 442. The electrolytic cell unit 450 electrolyzes tap water flowing inside, thereby generating a liquid (functional water) containing hypochlorous acid from the tap water. The electrolytic cell unit 450 is connected to the controller 405. The electrolytic cell unit 450 generates functional water based on the control of the controller 405.

The functional water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 may be a solution containing metal ions such as silver ions and copper ions, for example. Alternatively, the functional water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 may be a solution containing electrolytic chlorine, ozone, or the like. Alternatively, the functional water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 may be acidic water or alkaline water.

A Vacuum Breaker (VB)452 is provided downstream of the electrolytic cell unit 450. The vacuum circuit breaker 452 has, for example, a flow path through which water flows, an air inlet for taking air into the flow path, and a valve mechanism for opening and closing the air inlet. The valve mechanism closes the air inlet when water flows through the flow path, and opens the air inlet together with the stop of the water flow to take in air into the flow path. That is, when there is no water flow in the water conduit 20, the vacuum breaker 452 takes in air into the pipe line 20 a. The valve mechanism may use, for example, a float valve.

As described above, the vacuum breaker 452 takes in air into the pipe line 20a, thereby facilitating drainage of a portion of the pipe line 20a downstream of the vacuum breaker 452, for example. The vacuum breaker 452 facilitates drainage of the nozzle 473, for example. In this way, the vacuum breaker 452 removes the water in the nozzle 473 and takes in the air into the nozzle 473, thereby suppressing, for example, the washing water in the nozzle 473 and the sewage remaining in the basin 801 from flowing back to the water supply source 10 (top water).

A pressure modulator 454 is provided downstream of the vacuum interrupter 452. The pressure modulation unit 454 imparts pulsation or acceleration to the flow of water in the pipe passage 20a of the water guide unit 20, and imparts pulsation to water discharged from the water discharge portion of the female cleansing water discharge port 474a, the hip cleansing water discharge port 474b, and the nozzle cleansing unit 478 of the nozzle 473. That is, the pressure modulator 454 varies the flow state of the water flowing through the pipe line 20 a. The pressure modulator 454 is connected to the controller 405. The pressure modulator 454 varies the flow state of the water based on the control of the controller 405. The pressure modulator 454 varies the pressure of the water in the pipe line 20 a.

A flow rate adjuster 471 is provided downstream of the pressure modulator 454. The flow rate adjusting unit 471 adjusts the water potential (flow rate). A flow path switching unit 472 is provided downstream of the flow rate adjustment unit 471. The flow path switching unit 472 switches the supply of water to the nozzle 473 and the nozzle cleaning unit 478. The flow rate adjusting unit 471 and the flow channel switching unit 472 may be provided as a single unit. The flow rate adjuster 471 and the flow channel switch 472 are connected to the controller 405. The flow rate adjuster 471 and the flow channel switch 472 operate under the control of the controller 405.

A nozzle 473, a nozzle washing portion 478, and a spray nozzle 479 are provided downstream of the flow path switching portion 472. The nozzle 473 receives the driving force from the nozzle motor 476 and extends into the bowl 801 of the toilet 800 or retreats from the bowl 801. That is, the nozzle motor 476 is a driving device that advances and retracts the nozzle 473 in response to a command from the control unit 405.

The nozzle washing part 478 washes the outer surface (main body) of the nozzle 473 by, for example, jetting functional water or water from the jetting part. The outer surface of the nozzle 473 includes, for example, the front surface of the nozzle 473 and the outer peripheral surface of the nozzle 473. The spray nozzle 479 sprays the washing water or the functional water into a mist form toward the basin 801. In this example, the spray nozzle 479 is provided separately from the nozzle 473 for washing the human body. The present invention is not limited to this, and a water discharge port for spraying a water-mist liquid onto the bowl 801 may be provided in the nozzle 473.

Further, a bottom washing flow path 21, a soft washing flow path 22, and a female washing flow path 23 are provided downstream of the flow path switching unit 472. The buttocks washing flow path 21 and the soft washing flow path 22 guide the water supplied from the water supply source 10 via the water guide 20 and the functional water generated in the electrolytic bath unit 450 to the buttocks washing water discharge port 474 b. The female wash flow path 23 guides water supplied from the water supply source 10 via the water guide 20 and functional water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 to the female wash water discharge port 474 a.

Further, a surface cleaning flow path 24 and a spray flow path 25 are provided downstream of the flow path switching portion 472. The surface washing flow path 24 guides water supplied from the water supply source 10 via the water guide 20 and functional water generated in the electrolytic bath unit 450 to the water discharge portion of the nozzle washing unit 478. The spray flow path 25 guides water supplied from the water supply source 10 via the water guide 20 and functional water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 to the spray nozzle 479.

The control unit 405 controls the flow path switching unit 472 to switch the opening and closing of each of the buttocks washing flow path 21, the soft washing flow path 22, the female washing flow path 23, the surface washing flow path 24, and the spray flow path 25. In this way, the flow path switching unit 472 switches between a state of communicating with the conduit 20a and a state of not communicating with the conduit 20a for a plurality of water discharge ports such as the female wash water discharge port 474a, the hip wash water discharge port 474b, the nozzle wash unit 478, and the spray nozzle 479.

The control unit 405 is supplied with electric power from the power supply circuit 401, and controls the operations of the electromagnetic valve 431, the heat exchanger unit 440, the electrolytic cell unit 450, the pressure modulation unit 454, the flow rate adjustment unit 471, the flow channel switching unit 472, the nozzle motor 476, and the like based on signals sent from the motion sensor 403, the seating sensor 404, the flow rate sensor 442, the operation unit 500, and the like.

The controller 405 controls the light emitter 700 based on, for example, detection information of the motion sensor 403 and the seating sensor 404. The illumination unit 700 irradiates sterilizing light, which is light having a sterilizing effect, to the periphery of the nozzle 473 (a nozzle housing unit described later). The illumination section 700 will be described later.

As shown in fig. 1, the motion sensor 403 is embedded in a recessed portion 409 formed in the upper surface of the housing 400, and detects a user (human body) approaching the toilet seat 200. In other words, the motion sensor 403 detects a user located in the vicinity of the sanitary washing apparatus 100. In addition, a penetration window 310 is provided at the rear of the toilet cover 300. Therefore, the motion sensor 403 can detect the presence of the user through the see-through window 310 in the state where the toilet lid 300 is closed. The control portion 405 automatically opens the toilet lid 300 in response to detection of a user by the motion sensor 403, for example.

The casing 400 may be provided with various mechanisms such as a "warm air drying function", a "deodorizing unit", and an "indoor heating unit" for blowing warm air toward the "buttocks" of the user seated in the toilet seat 200 to dry the same. At this time, an exhaust port 407 from the deodorization unit and an exhaust port 408 from the indoor heating unit are appropriately provided in the side surface of the casing 400. However, in the present invention, it is not necessary to provide the sanitary washing function section and other additional function sections.

Fig. 3 (a), 3 (b), 6, 7 (a), and 7 (b) are cross-sectional views showing the periphery of the private part washing nozzle of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

Fig. 8 (a) and 8 (b) are front views showing the periphery of the private parts washing nozzle of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment.

In fig. 4, the structure other than the nozzle 473 of the sanitary washing apparatus 100 is omitted.

As shown in fig. 3 (a) and 4, the housing 400 has a nozzle housing 480 that can house the entire nozzle 473 in a state where the nozzle 473 is retracted. The nozzle housing 480 is a member for housing the nozzle 473, and is adjacent to the nozzle 473 with the nozzle 473 housed in its entirety. In this example, as shown in fig. 5, a nozzle support portion 482 and a nozzle cleaning portion 478 are provided as the nozzle housing portion 480.

The nozzle support portion 482 supports the nozzle 473 below the nozzle 473. The nozzle support portion 482 is inclined downward in a direction from the rear toward the front. The nozzle 473 extends and retracts while sliding relative to the nozzle support 482. The nozzle housing 480 may be provided with a cylindrical member for housing the nozzle 473, for example.

The nozzle cleaning part 478 is attached to the tip of the nozzle support part 482. As shown in fig. 3 (a), the nozzle washing part 478 includes a water discharge part 478a having a water discharge hole for discharging washing water and a support body 478 b. As shown in fig. 3 (a) and 8, an opening 481 is provided at a lower portion of the front end of the housing 400. The nozzle cleaning part 478 is located rearward of the opening 481. The nozzle washing part 478 washes the outer peripheral surface (main body) of the nozzle 473 by, for example, jetting functional water or water from the water jetting part 478a when the nozzle 473 advances and retreats (self-cleaning).

A nozzle cover 600 is provided in front of the nozzle 473 and the nozzle cleaning unit 478.

The nozzle cover 600 is provided so as to be openable and closable with respect to the opening 481. As shown in fig. 3 (b), the nozzle cover 600 is in an open state to open the opening 481 in a state where the nozzle 473 is extended, and as shown in fig. 3 (a), the nozzle cover 600 is in a closed state to close the opening 481 in a state where the entire nozzle 473 is housed in the nozzle housing 480. For example, when the nozzle cover 600 is in the closed state, the opening 481 provided at the tip end of the nozzle housing 480 is closed by the nozzle cover 600.

In an unused state, the nozzle 473 is housed in the nozzle housing 480 as shown in fig. 3 (a). When the private parts are washed by the nozzle 473, the nozzle 473 slides forward and downward with respect to the nozzle housing 480. When the nozzle 473 slides forward and downward, the nozzle 473 contacts the nozzle washing part 478, and the water discharge part 478a of the nozzle washing part 478 and the nozzle cover 600 are pushed upward. For example, until the nozzle 473 reaches a predetermined position, the nozzle 473 is washed by the spout water from the spout portion 478 a.

As shown in fig. 3 (b), when the nozzle 473 reaches a predetermined position, the water is discharged from the female wash water discharge port 474a or the hip wash water discharge port 474b toward the private parts of the user, and the user washes the private parts. When the private parts washing is completed, the nozzle 473 slides backward and upward toward the nozzle housing 480. For example, until the nozzle 473 is housed in the nozzle housing 480, the nozzle 473 is washed with the spout water from the spout portion 478 a. The nozzle 473 retreats to a predetermined position and is accommodated in the nozzle accommodating portion 480 as shown in fig. 3 (a).

As shown in fig. 3 (a), 3 (b), 4, and 6, the sanitary washing apparatus 100 includes an irradiation unit 700 that irradiates sterilizing light, which is light having a sterilizing action. At least a part of the bacteria adhering to the object is killed or inactivated by irradiation of the sterilizing light, and thereby the bacteria are sterilized. The wavelength of the sterilizing light is 250nm to 480 nm. The research result of the people of the invention is as follows: at wavelengths around 250nm to 300nm, the DNA of bacteria, molds, and the like is rewritten to sterilize the bacteria so that the bacteria cannot grow, and at wavelengths around 300nm to 480nm, the light acts on water contained in the bacteria, molds, and the like, to generate radicals, and the radicals are used to kill or inactivate the bacteria. The inventors have confirmed that hydrogen peroxide is generated in tap water by irradiating tap water with a wavelength of 300nm to 480 nm. This means that hydrogen peroxide is generated in water during the generation of free radicals. It was also confirmed that bacteria in water can be sterilized by irradiating the bacteria in water with light having a wavelength of 300nm to 480 nm. The illumination section 700 is provided inside the housing 400, for example. As shown in fig. 4 and 6, in this example, the illumination unit 700 includes 2 light emitting units 710. The 2 light emitting portions 710 are provided on the left and right side portions below the nozzle support portion 482, respectively.

The illumination section 700 includes, for example, a light emitting element 720 (light emitter). The Light Emitting element 720 is, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode). The Light Emitting element 720 is not limited to an LED, and may be an LD (Laser Diode), an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode), or the like. Instead of the light-emitting element, a cold cathode tube or a hot cathode tube may be used. The light emitting element 720 is connected to the controller 405 shown in fig. 2 via a substrate, for example, and is turned on and off under the control of the controller 405. The controller 405 controls the operation of the lighting unit 700 by controlling the lighting and the extinguishing of the light emitting element 720. The controller 405 may control all light beams of the light emitting element 720 by adjusting a voltage applied to the light emitting element 720, for example. The light emitting element 720 is provided in the light emitting portion 710, for example.

The light emitting unit 710 irradiates the sterilizing light toward the front side (the side of the opening 481) of each of the nozzle 473 and the nozzle housing 480. The visible region including the front surface of the nozzle 473 and the portion of the nozzle housing 480 located below the nozzle 473 is sterilized by the sterilizing light.

The visually recognizable area will be described more specifically with reference to fig. 7 (a), 7 (b), 8 (a), and 8 (b). Fig. 7 (a) shows a state where the entire nozzle 473 is housed in the nozzle housing 480. Fig. 7 (b) shows a state in which the user fully opens the nozzle cover 600. The visually recognizable region is a portion of the front surface of the nozzle 473 and the nozzle housing 480 located below the nozzle 473 in the state shown in fig. 7 (a) where the user cannot visually recognize the region and in the state shown in fig. 7 (b) where the user can visually recognize the region. For example, in the state shown in fig. 7 (b), when the user views the sanitary washing apparatus 100 from the direction indicated by the arrow a1, the region R1 of the front surface of the nozzle 473 and the region R2 of the nozzle housing 480 are visually recognizable regions.

By providing the illumination section 700 for irradiating the sterilization light to the visually recognizable area, it is possible to suppress adhesion of dirt to a visually observable portion when the user opens the nozzle cover 600. In particular, according to the sanitary washing apparatus 100 of the present invention, the sterilizing light is irradiated to the front surface of the nozzle 473, the portion of the nozzle housing 480 located below the nozzle 473, and the like as shown in the region R1 and the region R2 in fig. 7 (b). These portions are easily visible to the user when the nozzle cover 600 is opened, but it is difficult to sufficiently irradiate the sterilizing light by the irradiation of the normal sterilizing light to the nozzle 473. According to the present invention, since the sterilizing light can be irradiated to such a portion to suppress adhesion of dirt, the user can recognize that the nozzle 473 is housed in a clean place. Therefore, even a user with high cleaning awareness can use the nozzle 473 with ease.

The illumination section 700 preferably irradiates the entire visually recognizable area with sterilizing light. In the present specification, the phrase "irradiating the entire visually recognizable area with the sterilizing light" means irradiating the entire visually recognizable area with the sterilizing light in an amount of 50% or more, preferably 70% or more, and more preferably 90% or more of the visually recognizable area so that the number of germs is reduced by 99% at 24 hours. The entire visually recognizable area is substantially sterilized by the illumination unit 700.

The visually recognizable region may further include a region that can be visually recognized when the user uses a hand-held mirror or the like in the state shown in fig. 7 (b). For example, in a state where the nozzle cover 600 is fully opened as shown in fig. 7 (b) and 8 (b), in addition to the regions R1 and R2 which can be seen directly by naked eyes from the direction of the arrow a1, a region R3 of the back surface 600a of the nozzle cover 600 which can be seen visually using a handheld mirror or the like is included in the visually recognizable region. That is, the light irradiation section 700 irradiates the sterilization light L to the rear surface 600a as well as the areas R1 and R2.

This is because, in some cases, a user who is highly conscious of cleaning cleans the sanitary washing apparatus 100 while checking an area that cannot be seen directly with the naked eye using a hand-held mirror or the like. By irradiating the sterilizing light L also to the rear surface 600a, adhesion of dirt on the rear surface 600a can be suppressed. Therefore, even a user who observes the back surface 600a can recognize that the nozzle 473 is housed in a clean place, and the user can use the nozzle 473 with ease.

The irradiation unit 700 irradiates the visible region with the sterilizing light more intensively than the non-visible region, which is a region other than the visible region in the nozzle housing 480. For example, the illumination unit 700 is configured such that the average illuminance of the sterilizing light in the visible region is larger than the average illuminance of the sterilizing light in the non-visible region. Alternatively, the irradiation section 700 is configured such that the irradiation range of the sterilization light in the visible region is wider than the irradiation range of the sterilization light in the non-visible region.

This can improve the dirt removal performance of the visually recognizable area required to have high cleanliness. In recent years, the sanitary washing apparatus 100 is desired to be downsized in order to improve the design. By irradiating the visible region with the sterilizing light more intensively than the non-visible region, unnecessary irradiation of the sterilizing light can be suppressed, and the power applied to the illumination section 700 can be reduced. When the power is reduced, the heat generation of the illumination unit 700 is reduced. This can reduce the number of fins and the like for dissipating heat from the illumination unit 700, thereby reducing the size of the illumination unit 700. As a result, the sanitary washing apparatus 100 can be downsized.

The average illuminance of the sterilizing light in the visually recognizable area is calculated by averaging the illuminance of the sterilizing light at each point of the visually recognizable area. The average illuminance of the sterilizing light in the non-visually recognizable area is calculated by averaging the illuminance of the sterilizing light at each point of the non-visually recognizable area.

The irradiation range of the sterilizing light in the visually recognizable region is represented by the area of a portion of the visually recognizable region irradiated with the sterilizing light at a predetermined illuminance or more. The irradiation range of the sterilizing light in the non-visually recognizable region is represented by the area of a portion of the non-visually recognizable region irradiated with the sterilizing light at a predetermined illuminance or more. The predetermined illuminance is, for example, 5mW/cm²。

It is preferable that the non-visually recognizable region of the nozzle housing 480 is formed such that water in the non-visually recognizable region generated by private parts washing, self-cleaning of the nozzle 473, or the like is guided to the visually recognizable region of the nozzle housing 480. In the example shown in fig. 3 and 5, the nozzle support portion 482 constituting the nozzle housing portion 480 is inclined downward in a direction from the rear toward the front. That is, the water is guided from the rear side of the nozzle support portion 482, which is a non-visible region, to the front side of the nozzle support portion 482, which is a visible region.

According to this configuration, the generation of residual water, which is an important factor for the growth of bacteria and mold, can be suppressed in the non-visually recognizable area, and the adhesion of dirt to the non-visually recognizable area can be suppressed. As a result, it is possible to prevent germs and molds from being propagated in the visually recognizable area due to the release of spores from molds generated in the visually recognizable area into the nozzle housing portion.

For example, the light emitting portion 710 is provided on the side portion below the nozzle support portion 482 as described above. The light emitting unit 710 may be provided inside the nozzle housing 480, but is preferably provided outside the nozzle housing 480 as shown in fig. 4 and 6. When the nozzle 473 is washed or the washed nozzle 473 is stored, water splashes in the nozzle storage 480. Therefore, if the light emitting part 710 is disposed in the nozzle housing 480, water may be attached to the light emitting part 710, which may cause a failure of the light emitting part 710. Since the light emitting unit 710 is disposed outside the nozzle housing 480, water does not adhere to the light emitting unit 710 and the power supply unit for supplying power to the light emitting unit 710, and thus malfunction of the light emitting unit 710 can be prevented.

When the light emitting unit 710 is provided outside the nozzle housing 480, the portion of the nozzle housing 480 to which the sterilizing light is irradiated preferably has a light-transmitting property. That is, the nozzle housing 480 preferably has a transmissive portion 480a (shown in fig. 6) for guiding the sterilizing light emitted from the light emitting portion 710 into the nozzle housing 480. By providing the transmissive portion 480a, the illuminance of the sterilizing light applied to the visually recognizable region in the nozzle housing portion 480 can be increased, and the sterilizing action can be improved.

Fig. 9 (a) to 9 (c) are cross-sectional views showing an example of the periphery of the private parts washing nozzle of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment. In fig. 9 (a) to 9 (c), dots are given to the visible region to which the sterilizing light is irradiated.

For example, as shown in fig. 9 (a), the illumination section 700 includes a reflection section 740 for irradiating the entire visually recognizable area with the sterilizing light L. The reflection unit 740 reflects the sterilizing light L emitted from the light emitting unit 710 toward the visually recognizable region. The reflection part 740 is formed of a metal material, for example, in order to improve reflectivity. Further, the surface of the reflecting portion 740 (the surface facing the light emitting portion 710) is preferably mirror-finished. Alternatively, the reflection unit 740 may be formed of a resin material having high reflectance. As such a resin material, for example, a fluorine-based compound or a polyester-based compound can be used. The entire reflection unit 740 may be made of a material having a high reflectance as described above, or only a part of the reflection unit 740 may be made of a material having a high reflectance.

Alternatively, the light irradiation section 700 may include the light guide member 750. For example, as shown in fig. 9 (b), the light guide member 750 is a nozzle cleaning part 478 formed of a light guide material. Since the nozzle cleaning portion 478 is made of a light guide material, the sterilizing light L applied to the nozzle cleaning portion 478 passes through the nozzle cleaning portion 478 and is radiated from the nozzle cleaning portion 478.

As shown in fig. 9 (c), the light guide member 750 may be a nozzle cover 600 formed of a light guide material. Since the nozzle cover 600 is made of a light-guiding material, the sterilizing light L applied to the nozzle cover 600 is radiated from the nozzle cover 600 through the inside of the nozzle cover 600.

Examples of the light guide material constituting the nozzle cleaning part 478 or the nozzle cover 600 include acrylic resin members, silicone resin, and glass

Since the illumination section 700 includes the reflection section 740 or the light guide member 750, the sterilization light can be efficiently irradiated from the light emitting section 710 to the tip end surface of the nozzle 473 serving as the backlight. Accordingly, the sterilization light can be efficiently irradiated to the entire visible region by the smaller (or less) light emitting unit 710, and the sanitary washing apparatus 100 can be downsized.

The specific configuration of the light irradiation section 700 can be changed as appropriate.

Fig. 10 (a) to 10 (c) are cross-sectional views showing another example of the periphery of the private parts washing nozzle of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment. In fig. 10 (a) to 10 (c), dots are given to the visible region to which the sterilizing light is irradiated.

For example, as shown in fig. 10 (a), the light emitting part 710 may be provided above the tip of the nozzle 473. In the sanitary washing apparatus 100, there is a space above the nozzle 473 rather than to the side or below the nozzle 473. Therefore, by providing the light emitting part 710 above the tip of the nozzle 473, the sanitary washing apparatus 100 can be made smaller than in the case where the light emitting part 710 is provided below or on the side of the nozzle 473.

When the light emitting unit 710 is disposed above the tip of the nozzle 473, the light emitting unit 710 emits the sterilizing light L downward. In this case, as shown in fig. 10 (a) to 10 (c), the illumination section 700 preferably includes the reflection section 740 or the light guide member 750. By providing the reflection part 740 or the light guide member 750, the sterilizing light L can be efficiently irradiated from the light emitting part 710 to the tip surface of the nozzle 473 serving as the backlight, the nozzle housing part 480 located below the nozzle 473, and the like.

As shown in fig. 11, the light emitting element 720 may be disposed at a position distant from the nozzle housing 480. In this example, 2 light emitting elements 720 are provided at positions distant from the nozzle housing 480 in the left-right direction, and the 2 light emitting elements 720 are connected to 2 light emitting parts 710 provided on the left and right side portions of the nozzle housing 480 via optical fibers 730, respectively.

In the embodiment, the sterilizing light may be guided from the light emitting element 720 to the light emitting portion 710 by an optical fiber or the like, and the sterilizing light may be irradiated from the light emitting portion 710 provided near the nozzle housing 480 to the nozzle housing 480.

The structure of the nozzle cleaning unit 478 is not limited to the example shown in fig. 3 and 5. For example, the nozzle cleaning unit 478 shown in fig. 12 and 13 may be provided. In this example, the nozzle cleaning part 478 is a cylindrical member attached to the tip of the nozzle support part 482. In a state where the nozzle 473 is completely retracted, the tip of the nozzle 473 is surrounded by the nozzle washing portion 478. A water discharge hole for discharging the washing water toward the outer periphery of the nozzle 473 is formed in the inner wall of the nozzle washing part 478. For example, the nozzle housing section 480 is composed of the nozzle cleaning section 478 and the nozzle support section 482.

Even when the nozzle cleaning unit 478 shown in fig. 12 and 13 is provided, the sanitary cleaning apparatus 100 has a visible region in which the nozzle cover 600 can be visually recognized when fully opened. For example, as shown in fig. 14, a region R1 of the front surface of the nozzle 473 and a region R2 of the nozzle housing 480 located below the nozzle 473 are visually recognizable regions. The illumination section 700 irradiates the visible region with sterilizing light.

In this way, the structure near the nozzle housing 480 can be appropriately changed. In any of the configurations, the sterilizing light is irradiated to the visually recognizable region in both the front surface of the nozzle 473 and the portion of the nozzle housing 480 located below the nozzle 473, whereby the adhesion of dirt in the region can be suppressed.

As shown in FIG. 15, in this example, the sterilizing light includes light having a wavelength of about 360nm to about 420nm, with a peak wavelength of about 385 nm. By setting the peak wavelength of the sterilizing light to be in the vicinity of the boundary between the visible light region and the ultraviolet light region in this manner, it is possible to irradiate sterilizing light including, for example, a UV-a component (315nm to 400 nm) which is an ultraviolet light component and a violet to blue visible light component (400nm to 480 nm). Such a sterilizing light can achieve both the sterilizing effect of the sterilizing light on the nozzle housing 480 and the visual confirmation effect of the user.

The number of light sources of the sterilizing light is not limited to one. For example, as the sterilizing light, light including an ultraviolet light component and not including a visible light component may be irradiated from one light source, and light including a visible light component and not including an ultraviolet light component may be irradiated from another light source. In other words, the ultraviolet light component and the visible light component included in the sterilizing light can be simultaneously irradiated from different light sources.

The sterilizing light is not limited to light including an ultraviolet light component and a visible light component. For example, in the case where the nozzle cover 600 contains a wavelength conversion material, the sterilizing light may be light including an ultraviolet light component and not including a visible light component.

Next, a specific example of the operation of the sanitary washing apparatus according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

As shown in fig. 16, in a state where the motion sensor 403 does not detect the user, the light irradiation unit 700 does not operate (time t 0). More specifically, the light emitting element 720 (e.g., LED) of the illumination section 700 is turned off (turned off).

When the motion sensor 403 detects a user approaching the sanitary washing apparatus 100, the controller 405 operates the lighting unit 700 (time t 1). More specifically, the controller 405 turns on (turns on) the light emitting element 720 of the lighting unit 700.

In this way, by operating the illumination unit 700 at the timing when the user is detected to approach the sanitary washing apparatus 100, the user can be made aware that the sterilization light is sterilizing the nozzle housing 480 before the user sits on the toilet seat 200.

The illumination section 700 continues to operate until the seating sensor 404 detects the seating of the user, for example. In other words, the control unit 405 continues the operation of the illumination unit 700 in a state where the motion sensor 403 detects the user and the seating sensor 404 does not detect seating.

When the seating sensor 404 detects that the user is seated, the controller 405 stops the operation of the lighting unit 700 (time t 2). More specifically, the controller 405 turns off (turns off) the light emitting element 720 of the lighting unit 700.

When the sterilizing light leaks from the opening 481 to the outside of the housing 400 after the user sits on the toilet seat 200, a part of the sterilizing light is easily irradiated to the user. By stopping the operation of the light irradiation unit 700 at the time when the user sits on the toilet seat 200, the irradiation of the sterilizing light to the user can be suppressed, and the safety of the user can be further improved.

The illumination section 700 continues to stop operating until the seating sensor 404 detects the user's absence, for example. In other words, the controller 405 continuously stops the operation of the lighting section 700 in a state where the seating sensor 404 detects seating.

When the seating sensor 404 detects the user's absence (when the seating sensor 404 changes from the state in which seating is detected to the state in which seating is not detected), the controller 405 operates the lighting unit 700 (time t 3). More specifically, the controller 405 turns on (turns on) the light emitting element 720 of the lighting unit 700. This makes it possible for the user who is out of the seat to recognize that the sterilization of the nozzle housing 480 is started again.

The lighting section 700 continues to operate until a predetermined time TM1 elapses. In other words, even when motion sensor 403 has changed from the state in which the user is detected to the state in which the user is not detected (time t4), controller 405 continues to operate illumination unit 700 until a predetermined time TM1 elapses.

When the predetermined time TM1 elapses, the controller 405 stops the operation of the lighting unit 700 (time t 5). More specifically, the controller 405 turns off (turns off) the light emitting element 720 of the lighting unit 700.

When a predetermined time TM2 has elapsed while the toilet pan is not in use, the illumination unit 700 operates. In other words, when the predetermined time TM2 has elapsed with the motion sensor 403 not detecting the user and the seating sensor 404 not detecting the seating, the controller 405 operates the lighting unit 700 (time t 6). More specifically, the controller 405 turns on (turns on) the light emitting element 720 of the lighting unit 700. In this way, the control unit 405 can operate the illumination unit 700 in a state where the motion sensor 403 does not detect the user.

By sterilizing the nozzle housing 480 with the sterilizing light even in a state where the user is not detected by the motion sensor 403, the irradiation time of the sterilizing light can be increased. This can improve the sterilization effect of the sterilization light on the nozzle housing 480. Further, by increasing the irradiation time of the sterilizing light, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the sterilizing effect of the sterilizing light on the nozzle housing 480 even when the sterilizing light having a relatively long peak wavelength is irradiated. Therefore, the safety of the user can be improved while suppressing the reduction of the sterilization effect.

When the predetermined time TM3 elapses, the controller 405 stops the operation of the lighting unit 700 (time t 7). More specifically, the controller 405 turns off (turns off) the light emitting element 720 of the lighting unit 700.

The predetermined times TM1 to TM3 may be arbitrary times. The predetermined time periods TM1 to TM3 are set such that, for example, the operating time of the illumination section 700 in a state where the motion sensor 403 does not detect a user is longer than the operating time of the illumination section 700 in a state where the motion sensor 403 detects a user. In other words, the controller 405 controls the illumination section 700 such that the operation time of the illumination section 700 in a state where the human body sensor 403 does not detect the user is longer than the operation time of the illumination section 700 in a state where the human body sensor 403 detects the user, for example. This can further improve the sterilization effect of the sterilization light on the nozzle housing 480.

(other embodiments)

Fig. 17 to 19 are sectional views showing the periphery of a private part washing nozzle of a sanitary washing apparatus according to another embodiment.

In the sanitary washing apparatus 100a according to the other embodiment, as shown in fig. 17, the light emitting part 710 of the illumination part 700 is provided above the nozzle 473 and the nozzle cover 600.

As shown in fig. 18, the nozzle housing 480 has a bottom surface 480 b. The bottom surface 480b is a part of the inner surface of the housing 400, and is a part located forward of the nozzle support 482. As shown in fig. 19 (a), the light emitting unit 710 emits the sterilizing light L downward. Thereby, the sterilizing light L is irradiated to the back surface 600a, a part of the bottom surface 480b, the upper surface of the nozzle 473, and the like of the nozzle cover 600.

As shown in fig. 18, the nozzle 473 has a front surface 473 a. The front surface 473a is a surface located forward of the nozzle 473 with the projecting direction of the nozzle 473 as the front. The front surface 473a is, for example, substantially perpendicular to the protruding direction of the nozzle 473. Bottom surface portion 480b has a portion 480c located below front surface 473 a. For example, the front surface 473a of the nozzle 473 is located between at least a part of the portion 480c and the light emitting portion 710. That is, the sterilizing light emitted from the light emitting unit 710 cannot directly irradiate at least a part of the portion 480 c.

Fig. 19 (b) shows the sterilizing light L emitted from the light emitting unit 710 and reflected by the rear surface 600 a. When the back surface 600a is irradiated with the sterilizing light L, a part of the sterilizing light L is reflected as shown in fig. 19 (b). For example, the sterilizing light L reflected by the back surface 600a is irradiated to at least the front surface 473a of the nozzle 473 and the portion of the nozzle housing 480 located forward of the front surface 473 a. Specifically, a portion of the nozzle housing 480 located forward of the front surface 473a includes a bottom 480b and a portion of the nozzle cleaning part 478.

By irradiating the front surface 473a and the portion 480c with the sterilizing light L, the adhesion of dirt to the region that can be visually observed by the user, that is, the visually recognizable region can be suppressed in the nozzle 473 and the nozzle housing 480. This makes it possible for the user to recognize that the nozzle 473 is clean and that the nozzle housing 480 housing the nozzle 473 is also clean. Therefore, even a user with high cleaning awareness can use the private parts washing nozzle with ease.

The nozzle 473 has an outer peripheral surface 473b that extends in the forward/backward direction of the nozzle 473. For example, the nozzle 473 has a cylindrical shape extending in the advancing/retreating direction, and the outer peripheral surface 473b is curved. Preferably, the illumination portion 700 is configured such that the average illuminance of the sterilizing light L to the front surface 473a and the portion of the nozzle housing 480 located on the front side of the front surface 473a is larger than the average illuminance of the sterilizing light L to the outer peripheral surface 473 b. Alternatively, the illumination portion 700 is preferably configured to irradiate the front surface 473a and the portion of the nozzle housing 480 located on the front side of the front surface 473a with the sterilizing light L in a wider irradiation range than the outer peripheral surface 473b with the sterilizing light L.

In this way, the sterilizing light L can be intensively irradiated to the visually recognizable regions of the nozzle 473 and the nozzle housing 480. Therefore, the dirt is less likely to adhere to the visually recognizable region having a high requirement for cleanness. In recent years, the sanitary washing apparatus 100 is desired to be downsized in order to improve the design. According to the relationship between the average illuminance and the irradiation range, unnecessary irradiation of the sterilizing light L can be suppressed, and the electric power applied to the light illuminating section 700 can be reduced. When the power is reduced, the heat generation of the illumination unit 700 is reduced. This can reduce the number of fins and the like for dissipating heat from the illumination unit 700, thereby reducing the size of the illumination unit 700. As a result, the sanitary washing apparatus 100 can be downsized. The outer peripheral surface 473b of the nozzle 473 is less likely to have dirt adhered thereto because of the water or sterilizing water discharged from the nozzle cleaning portion 478. Therefore, even if the sterilizing light L is not irradiated with a large amount of light, the attachment of dirt on the outer peripheral surface 473b can be suppressed.

In order to increase the irradiation intensity or increase the irradiation range of the sterilizing light L to the front surface 473a and the like, at least a part of the back surface 600a is preferably formed of a reflective material. More preferably, the rear surface 600a is entirely formed of a reflective material. For example, the reflectance at the back surface 600a is greater than the reflectance of the bottom surface 480b or the reflectance of the inner surface of the casing 400 adjacent to the back surface 600 a. As the reflective material, a metal material, a resin material having high reflectance, or the like can be used as in the case of the material of the reflective portion 740. For example, the rear surface 600a is preferably mirror-finished.

When the sterilizing light L is directly irradiated to the rear surface 600a, adhesion of dirt on the rear surface 600a can be suppressed. The rear surface 600a has a wide range of visually recognizable regions such as a front surface 473a facing the nozzle 473, the nozzle cleaning part 478, and the bottom part 480 b. By forming the rear surface 600a with a reflective material, the sterilizing light L reflected by the rear surface 600a is irradiated over a wide range of the visible region. Thus, even if the illumination section 700 (light emitting section 710) is downsized, the sterilizing light L can be irradiated over a wide range of the visually recognizable area.

The bottom surface section 480b and the inner surface of the housing 400 adjacent to the back surface 600a may be configured to reflect the sterilizing light L, in addition to the back surface 600 a. With this configuration, the sterilizing light L can be irradiated over a wider range of the visually recognizable region.

The light irradiation section 700 is preferably configured to directly irradiate the rear surface 600a with the sterilizing light L in a wider irradiation range than the sterilizing light L directly irradiated to the portion other than the rear surface 600a in the inside of the housing 400. By increasing the irradiation range in which the sterilization light L is directly irradiated to the rear surface 600a, the sterilization light L reflected by the rear surface 600a can be irradiated to a wider range of the visible region.

The sterilizing light L emitted to each part in the housing 400 includes reflected light and direct light. The reflected light is the sterilizing light L reflected by the rear surface 600a after being irradiated from the light emitting section 710. The direct light is the sterilizing light L directly irradiated from the light emitting unit 710 without being reflected by the rear surface 600a and other components. The light emitting unit 700 is preferably disposed at a position to emit direct light to the front end portion 480d of the bottom surface portion 480 b. The front end portion 480d includes a range within 10mm to the rear side from the front end of the bottom surface portion 480b, for example.

The results of the research of the people of the invention find that: the residual water in the nozzle housing 480 is likely to be generated at the tip portion 480d of the bottom surface portion 480 b. In addition, the present inventors have found that the front portion 480d is most susceptible to contamination. By irradiating the distal end portion 480d, which is most likely to cause fouling in the visually recognizable region, with direct light having a strong sterilizing power, generation of germs or molds at the distal end portion 480d can be suppressed. This can keep the front end portion 480d clean.

More preferably, the light emitter 700 is arranged to irradiate the front end 480d with direct light and reflected light. With this configuration, both direct light and reflected light can be applied to the distal end portion 480d where fouling is most likely to occur. Therefore, the generation of bacteria and mold at the distal end portion 480d where the residual water is likely to be generated in the visually recognizable region can be further suppressed.

Fig. 21 and 22 are sectional views showing the periphery of a private part washing nozzle of a sanitary washing apparatus according to another embodiment.

As shown in fig. 20, the back surface 600a of the nozzle cover 600 is preferably formed in a curved surface shape to diffuse the reflected light. According to this configuration, the sterilizing light L reflected by the rear surface 600a can be diffused more than in the case where the rear surface 600a is flat, and the sterilizing light L can be irradiated over a wider range of the visually recognizable area.

The nozzle cleaning part 478 is preferably formed of a permeable material. That is, as shown in fig. 21, the sterilizing light L preferably passes through the nozzle cleaning portion 478. The nozzle cleaning part 478 is provided at the tip of the nozzle 473. Therefore, the sterilizing light L transmitted through the nozzle washing portion 478 is irradiated to a visually recognizable area located on the backlight with respect to the light emitting portion 710 in the gap between the nozzle 473 and the nozzle washing portion 478. This makes it possible to irradiate the sterilization light over a wider range of the visually recognizable region. For example, the nozzle cleaning part 478 preferably has a transmittance of 5% or more.

More preferably, the nozzle cleaning part 478 is configured such that the sterilizing light L is diffused when transmitted. For example, the nozzle cleaning part 478 is formed of a resin to which a scattering agent is added. At least a part of the nozzle cleaning part 478 is positioned on the front side of the front surface 473a in a state where the entire nozzle 473 is housed in the nozzle housing 480. Therefore, when the sterilizing light L is diffused by the nozzle cleaning portion 478, the sterilizing light L can be irradiated over a wider range of the visually recognizable area. For example, the illuminance of the sterilizing light L to a visually recognizable area located on the backlight with respect to the lighting section 700 can be increased.

The nozzle cleaning unit 478 may be moved while the irradiation unit 700 is operated to irradiate the sterilizing light L. When the nozzle cleaning unit 478 moves during the operation of the illumination unit 700, the irradiation range of the sterilizing light L changes as shown in fig. 22 (a) and 22 (b). This makes it possible to irradiate the sterilizing light L over a wider range of the visually recognizable region. For example, the nozzle cleaning part 478 moves by the sliding of the nozzle 473. A driving portion that drives the nozzle cleaning portion 478 may be provided. The nozzle cleaning portion 478 is moved by the operation of the driving portion.

More preferably, during the operation of the illumination unit 700, the nozzle cleaning unit 478 is moved so as not to open the nozzle cover 600. This can prevent the sterilizing light L from leaking out of the housing 400, thereby improving the safety of the user and irradiating the sterilizing light to a wider range of the visually recognizable area.

Here, an example in which the sanitary washing apparatus 100a includes the nozzle cover 600 is described. However, the sanitary washing apparatus 100a may not include the nozzle cover 600. In this case, the visually recognizable area is an area that can be visually observed by the user through the opening through which the private parts washing nozzle is extended or retracted. In the case where the

sanitary washing apparatus

100 or 100a includes the nozzle cover 600, the visually recognizable area is an area that can be visually observed by the user when the nozzle cover 600 is fully opened. In the case where the nozzle cover 600 is not provided, the illumination section 700 is provided, for example, so that the sterilizing light L is directly irradiated to the front surface 473a of the nozzle 473 and the portion 480c of the bottom surface 480b located below the front surface 473 a.

The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above description. The embodiment modified by appropriately adding design to the above-described embodiment by those skilled in the art is also included in the scope of the present invention as long as the embodiment has the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, size, material, arrangement, and the like of each element provided in the sanitary washing apparatus are not limited to the illustrated examples, and can be appropriately changed.

The elements included in the above-described embodiments can be combined as long as they are technically feasible, and embodiments obtained by combining these embodiments are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention.

Claims

1. A sanitary washing device is characterized by comprising:

a private parts washing nozzle which is inclined downward toward the front side and has a water discharge hole for discharging washing water toward the private parts of the user;

a drive device that extends and retracts the local washing nozzle;

a housing having a nozzle housing portion capable of housing the entire private parts washing nozzle in a state where the private parts washing nozzle is retracted; and

an illumination section for illuminating sterilization light, which is light having sterilization effect,

a nozzle cleaning section having a nozzle cleaning hole for discharging cleaning water to an outer surface of the private parts cleaning nozzle is provided at a tip portion of the private parts cleaning nozzle,

a nozzle support portion for supporting the private part washing nozzle is provided below the private part washing nozzle,

the nozzle housing portion has a bottom surface portion which is a part of an inner surface of the housing and is a portion located forward of the nozzle support portion,

the illumination unit illuminates the sterilizing light at least to a portion of the front surface of the private parts washing nozzle and the bottom surface of the nozzle housing, the portion being located below the front surface.

2. Sanitary washing apparatus according to claim 1,

the illumination unit is configured such that an average illuminance of the sterilizing light with respect to the front surface and a portion of the nozzle housing located on a front side with respect to the front surface is larger than an average illuminance of the sterilizing light with respect to an outer peripheral surface of the private parts washing nozzle.

3. Sanitary washing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2,

the irradiation range of the sterilizing light to the front surface and a portion of the nozzle housing located on the front side of the front surface is configured to be wider than the irradiation range of the sterilizing light to the outer peripheral surface of the private parts washing nozzle.

4. Sanitary washing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2,

further comprising a nozzle cover which is provided so as to be openable and closable with respect to an opening provided at a front end of the nozzle housing section, and which is provided so as to open the inside of the nozzle housing section in a state where the private parts cleaning nozzle is extended, and close the inside of the nozzle housing section in a state where the entire private parts cleaning nozzle is housed in the housing section,

at least a part of a back surface of the nozzle cover on the side of the nozzle storage portion is formed of a reflective material,

the illumination section directly illuminates at least a part of the sterilizing light to the back surface of the nozzle cover in a state where the nozzle cover is closed.

5. Sanitary washing apparatus according to claim 4,

the irradiation range of the sterilizing light directly irradiated to the rear surface of the nozzle cover is configured to be wider than the irradiation range of the sterilizing light directly irradiated to a portion other than the rear surface of the nozzle cover.

6. Sanitary washing apparatus according to claim 4,

the sterilizing light includes reflected light reflected by the nozzle cover and direct light not reflected by the nozzle cover,

the light irradiation unit is disposed at a position to irradiate the direct light to a front end portion of the bottom surface portion of the nozzle housing unit.

7. Sanitary washing apparatus according to claim 6,

the light irradiation section is configured to irradiate the direct light and the reflected light to the front end portion of the bottom surface section.

8. Sanitary washing apparatus according to claim 4,

the back surface of the nozzle cover is formed in a curved surface shape to diffuse reflected light.

9. Sanitary washing apparatus according to claim 4,

the nozzle cleaning unit is formed of a transmissive material that transmits the sterilizing light.

10. Sanitary washing apparatus according to claim 9,

the nozzle cleaning unit is configured such that the sterilizing light is diffused when transmitted,

at least a part of the nozzle washing portion is disposed on a front side of the front surface of the private parts washing nozzle in a state where the entire private parts washing nozzle is accommodated in the accommodating portion.

11. Sanitary washing apparatus according to claim 10,

the nozzle cleaning unit is moved while the illumination unit is operated.

12. Sanitary washing apparatus according to claim 11,

the nozzle cleaning unit is moved without opening the nozzle cover in a state where the illumination unit is operated.